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Food Democracy By the People, For the People and Toward a Stronger Nation
P L A N E T
FREE
Veggie Nation Revolution
Plant-Based Diets are Patriotic
No More
GMOs Jeffrey Smith on What It Takes to Undercut Them
The Spark of Parks
Kids Learn to Love the Nature Next Door JULY 2015 | Greater Hartford County Edition | www.NAHRT.com
You’re Invited to the
anatolia Fire Goddess
Hottest Celebration in Connecticut’s Coolest town!
Photo by Guy Mauri
Sat., July 25, 2015
Performance by award winning Grammy artist, Joseph Firecrow
Rain DaTe / SunDay July, 26
Collinsville HoT, a sizzling village and river
Photo by David Carnes
celebration, will introduce a full day of HOT activities including outdoor yoga, entertainment, food, art and crafts. The celebration will culminate with a spectacular night time “water fire” display and live performances to inaugurate the new Collinsville Streetscape and Flower Bridge.
Don’t miss this HOT event!
Chalk Walk Hike & Bike
Outdoor yoga
Fun Family activities
Wine & Dine
FOR MORe inFORMaTiOn anD SPOnSORSHiP OPPORTuniTieS eMail uS aT: COllinSvilleHOT@GMail.COM
COllinSville HOT
Thousands of Years of Food Wisdom in Twelve Months The Institute Of Sustainable Nutrition Offering a one-year Certification in Sustainable Health & Nutrition This innovative school integrates the Science of Nutrition with:
Time in the Garden learning to Grow nourishing food and herbs
Moving into the Kitchen to create delicious food
Using Food and Herbs to make Kitchen Medicine
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ve $1500 L EyDe SPAC wIM ith IT earl nrollmenE t R beE foM reA MIN arcING h 31
Identifying and using nutrient dense Wild Foods in delicious dishes
Embark on this life-altering journey and be part of the movement to change the paradigm of our food for future generations. Join our experienced staff one weekend a month as you use hands on education to delve into and explore diverse aspects of how food and herbs enhance the health of your clients, family, yourself and the environment.
Now Accepting Applications for 2015-16. Call 860-764-9070 Today! West Granby, CT • www.tiosn.com 2
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Stand Up Paddle Yoga
The Perfect Way to Practice Yoga Outdoors this Summer Class Schedule and Location All classes held on the shallow and clear waters of the Upper Mill Pond of the Farmington River in Collinsville.
tter health!
feel better? A Blissful Pairing for Holistic Living The most amazingly fun and invigorating yet to better health! peaceful and relaxing experiences you can have
L THERAPY
in Connecticut. Our SUP Yoga classes are guaranteed to give you a unique experience as you enjoy the fusion of an ancient wellness practice with one of the hottest new paddle sports.
July 4, 5, 11, 19, 25 & August 2 from 8: 9-10:30am July 25 from 11am-12:30pm & 4-5:30pm Perfect for All Experience Levels
Class begins with basic Stand Up Paddle boarding skills as you enjoy paddling on the calm water and taking in the beauty that surrounds you. Then to complete your experience, your certified yoga teacher will lead a fun yoga sequence on your floating mat, ending in a blissful relaxation pose like none you’ve ever experienced.
ust about everything... l not gettingCallbetter? 860-693-9642 to Register
or Visit YogaCenterCollinsville.com/supyoga nging issues like joint pain, headaches women’s health issues, allergies and ntegrative approach can help you.
49 per session
$
Board rental and all equipment provided.
10 Front St, Collinsville, CT 06019
Return to an Active, Pain-Free Life!
r specializing in holistic Physical Therapy, herapy (IMT) and nutritional wellness. skilled, practicing Physical Therapy ng njoyiyears! ly for more than E250 e’re e W
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July 2015
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letterfrompublisher “A “food democracy” describes a fair and transparent food system in which people have informed choices and control in determining what and how they eat.” “Food sovereignty is about reclaiming local democratic control over our food/farm system from corporate agribusiness.”
contact us
– Learn more in “Food Democracy,” page 22.
Publisher Shawn Cole Publisher@NAHRT.com Managing Editor Debbie Marconi Editor@NAHRT.com Editorial and Design Alison Chabonais Linda Sechrist Julie Peterson Kathy Zygmont Stephen Gray Blancet Steve Hagewood Julee Bode Erica Mills Kim Ahlgren Colleen Brunetti Advertising and Marketing 860-507-6392 Ads@NAHRT.com Customer Service Hotlines Phone: 860-507-6392 Fax: 860-357-6034 Website: www.NAHRT.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. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
Food is the basis of health. Without nutritious food, the body lacks the fundamental chemical building blocks to grow, heal and maintain emotional and physical health. Food also needs to be free of harmful toxins so that we are not ingesting chemicals that can damage or suppress the body or mind, or even encourage disease. Many say that our food supplies are getting further and further away from us and are lacking in the basic nutrients we need due to “dead” soil—soil that no longer has the basic building blocks of life for plants to use and deliver to us because the natural biome in the soil has been sterilized by commercial pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. We know that big businesses often cut corners for the sake of expense, but at the cost of quality by using fillers, dyes and other processed additives that are far from natural food items. We also know that, for the sake of production and yield needed to feed the planet, toxic insecticide, herbicide and fertilizer are used to grow both human and animal food. I’m a huge proponent of the concept that every citizen should be growing at least some of the food they eat, even if it’s just a small kitchen herb pot used to season dishes. That’s a start! I have experienced that when growing my own food, it is a very educational, humbling and fulfilling activity. To be able to pluck a leaf, a fruit or legume and pop it in your mouth or in the skillet fresh off the plant is amazingly fun and liberating. The act of nurturing even one small pot and watching it produce is eye opening and educational. Much of the knowledge of growing food has been lost over these last couple of generations. I was raised eating out of a fresh garden and had to help plant and pick the produce with my grandmother and parents. It was a wonderful experience (in hindsight). I wish all children could experience this today. If you’re not sure where to start, just go to any local farmer like Daren Hall of Hall’s Farm (see page 25) and ask. There are also programs right here in Central Connecticut that teach how to sustainably manage your food from the soil to the table. Learn more at The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition on page 26. Growing Naturally, Shawn
Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.
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contents 14 6 newsbriefs 11 event
spotlight 13 healthbriefs 16 globalbriefs 16 17 ecotip 18 healingways 28 consciouseating 30 greenliving 32 wisewords 33 inspiration 34 healthykids 17 36 fitbody 38 naturalpet 40 calendar 45 classifieds 46 resourceguide
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18 MANIFEST MIRACLES
18
Tap Into the Field of Infinite Possibility by Deborah Shouse
22 FOOD DEMOCRACY
By the People, for the People and Toward a Stronger Nation by Melinda Hemmelgarn
28 VEGGIE NATION REVOLUTION by Judith Fertig
30 FOOD GLEANING Harvesting Leftovers Feeds the Hungry
22
by Avery Mack
32 JEFFREY SMITH
WARNS AGAINST GMOS by Linda Sechrist
33 SONGS OF FREEDOM
30
We All Long for Liberty by Enrique Smeke
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34 ADVENTURES IN NATURE
Families Create Memories at Nearby Parks
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36 SAVVY CYCLING
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38 PURR-FECT
PET SITTERS
Make Sure Your Pet Enjoys Your Vacation, Too by Sandra Murphy
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July 2015
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newsbriefs
Learn the Basics of Tai Chi
Earn a Certification in Sustainable Health & Nutrition
O
ver the course of one year and 12 weekends. the Institute of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN) at Holcomb Farm in West Granby teaches students to plant, cook, ferment, forage, grow and prepare the most sustainable, nutrient-rich food possible, including fermented delicacies that are teeming with beneficial bacteria to heal the gut. “Fermented foods are one of the most important ways to reestablish bacteria in the gut that has been depleted from stress, antibiotics and chemicals,” said Joan Palmer, founder of TIOSN, who also teaches the Art and Science of Eating as part of an accredited master’s degree program at The Graduate Institute. According to NPR, Western diets and modern-day hygiene have wiped dozens of species of bacteria from our digestive tracts. Without these, there are higher incidences of chronic illnesses connected to the immune system. Throughout the course, TIOSN’s staff offers four categories of instruction: the science of food and nutrition, sustainable gardening, culinary skills and kitchen medicine. TIOSN is currently accepting students for the 2015-16 course, which begins in September. The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition, 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby. For information, contact 860-764-9070 or TIOSN.com. See ad on inside front cover.
J
oin master Tai Chi instructor, Dr. Ming Wu, owner of the Wu Healing Center for a workshop on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the West Hartford Town Hall and Conference Center. Ming Wu is a doctor of Chinese Medicine, a sixthgeneration Chinese Herbalist and a Master Tai Chi and Qi Gong practitioner who has been teaching mind-body therapies for more than two decades. During the workshop, Wu will break down basic Tai Chi movements into easy-tounderstand components and will provide explanation on the health benefits of each. Among its many advantages, Tai Chi stretches the body, reduces pain in the back, neck and shoulders, massages the internal organs and fosters emotional relaxation. “Even minimal practice of Tai Chi has been shown to reduce stress, decrease pain and fatigue and improve bone density,” says Wu. “It also helps thicken the brain’s cortex, which can help protect against depression, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, all of which are associated with the thinning of the cortex.” West Harford Town Hall and Conference Center, 50 South Main Street, West Hartford. Cost: $60. Register before July 30 for a $10 discount. For more information, visit WuHealing.com. See ad on back cover.
Breakthrough to the Life You’ve Always Dreamed! Do You Know What You Want and What is Possible For You? Is There a Piece of Your Life You Feel is Missing? Is There an Area of Your Life You Long to Transform?
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Beloved “Hugging Saint” Amma Returns to Boston Area
W
orld-renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, known as Amma, returns to the Boston area on July 9 and 10, offering free programs at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on both days along with a prayer ceremony for world peace. Everyone is invited to attend and receive a personal On at July blessing and hug from Amma the25th, West Hartford AmmaYoga will the fifth annual, all-levels, free event, which takes place at host the Best Western Royal Trade Center in Marlborough. outdoor yoga class. Led by local yogi Programs will include inspirational meditation and by Barbaramusic, Ruzansky and assisted spiritual discourse. Numbered tokens for individual blessings instructors from area studios,are the distributed 90 minutes beforeevent each will program. a full city block! take over “Amma has hugged more than 33 million people worldIt’s the yoga eventfeeling in Central wide, and many who’ve received herlargest embrace express Connecticut—come befirst a part of the unconditional love and total acceptance for the time,” saysfun!
M TREET OGA.
Vino Gupta, publicity coordinator for the event. “Amma has also provided humanitarian aid and disaster relief for every major global disaster over the last 10 years, including the recent Nepal earthquake.” Last year, Amma joined Pope Francis at the Vatican for a ceremonial signing of a declaration against human trafficking and slavery. “Thebest human mind has created many divisions in yoga mat and your “OM”! the name of religion, caste, language and national boundaries,” the August ceremony. aturday,Amma July 25stated (rain at date, 8) “Let us try to create a bridge of allencompassing pure love to break down these self-created walls.” :00 am - 9:15 am LaSalle Rd & Farmington Ave, West Hartford Best Western Royal Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Rd W, g Available in municipal lots (open before 8:00 am) Marlborough. For more information, call 716-226-6223 or visit ns? Call 860-953-YOGA or visit westhartfordyoga.com AmmaNewEngland.org/tour. See ad on page 19.
Your Asana in the Street!
Community Yoga on the Street
W
est Hartford Yoga is bringing yoga to the street in their annual Om Street event! Join Barbara Ruzansky, studio owner, as she leads a 75-minute community yoga class for all-levels (new to experienced) to be held on LaSalle Road and Farmington Avenue in West Hartford on Saturday July 25 from 8 to 9:15 a.m. (Rain date will be August 8.) Live music will be provided by Hands On Drumming. More than 40 local yoga centers from central CT will be participating in this exciting event, which brought out 1,000 people last year! Don’t miss the fun! For more information, visit WestHartfordYoga.com or call 860-953-9642.
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For details visit www.learn.edu Call: (203) 874-4252 Email: info@learn.edu
“Education of the mind, without education of the heart, is no education at all.” - Aristotle
natural awakenings
July 2015
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Summer Holistic Healing Nights
R
obin Barros, founder of Spirit of the Lotus, invites everyone to A Night of Healing. It is ideal for anyone interesting in exploring different modalities and is led by the “Summer Series” of guest practitioners. The remaining four sessions are scheduled for July 15 and 29, August 12 and 26. Special guests will be anRobin Barros nounced via Facebook. Coming up, Opening Sacred Space, drumming and chanting will start the evening off with the focus shifting to the healing modalities as we progress to the tables for hands-on healing. You will be introduced to the basics, learn how Reiki works and how your intention and focus can alter the way someone feels in a very positive way. Previous modalities were presented by Marion Porter of Starwinds, who did Access Consciousness Bars and Tuning Fork therapy and by Ed Cleveland of The Healers Lounge, who blessed attendees with individual Infinity Mirror work and Sound Healing. For more information on modalities visit SpiritOfTheLotus.org or call 860-709-3903. Follow on Facebook for future event notices. See ad on page 37.
Be Happy, Energized & Youthf
SummerIn aMusic Series in few short steps you can recreate your health. Explore our stress-busting, depression-beating, Manchester life-altering offerings under the guidance
T
he Center for Progressive Therapies of our holistic specialists. To sch (C4PT) invites everyone to the Positive FREE You’ll relax, regain joy and open Energy, Folk Spirit Song and Uplifting Munew horizons with services like and le sic Series 2015massage, for musical at their energyFridays work, coaching and n and counseling, meditation, poolside recreational area. The eventoracyour g hypnotherapy. And there’s much more! tivities, now in the 12th year, begin with a swim, play and sauna and evolve into Center For Progressive Therapies • 192 Hartford Road • Manche scrumptious food, singing, strumming, sweet harmonies, soft lighting and starry evenings. It’s a semi-private party, but open to new people. Bring food to share for the potluck buffet from 6 to 8 p.m., get wet and enjoy the music. Upcoming dates are July 10, 17, 24 and 31 with show time starting at 8 p.m. following the buffet. Shows offer folk, spirit song, soundings, jazz, calypso and world music. Musicians gratefully accept donations from attendees ($7 per person or $10 per couple is recommended) and have CDs available for sale. C4PT hosts the event and offers tours of their facility. The venue offers accessible off-street parking and is child friendly. It’s held rain or stars, as the indoor yoga studio can be used if bad weather threatens. The Center for Progressive Therapies, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. Contact 860-649-9600 or C4PT.org. See ad on page 13.
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Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga Classes
E Using Essential Oils
J
oin certified Integrative Nutrition Coach and DoTERRA Essential Oils Educator Colleen Brunetti at the Yoga Center of Collinsville for a variety of free workshops to learn more about essential oils. Free workshops will be July 10, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Introduction to Essential Oils; July 30, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., Getting The Body I Want – Naturally; and August 7, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Essential Oils for Pain and Mood Management. In addition, two yoga classes led by Brunetti and Liz Bohmier will be offered for $19/participant. Cost includes a 75-minute class and sample oils. Dates are July 10, 6-7:15 p.m., Chakra Balancing with Yoga and Essential Oils and August 7, 6-7:15 p.m., for Make the Most of Essential Oils in Your Yoga Practice. It’s important to know that not all essential oils are created equal, and there is no national standardization of potency or purity. Consumers need to learn to discern high quality oils from those with fillers and additives and to use oils effectively. “One oil can have many profound uses,” states Brunetti. “Integrating them into your daily routine can be lifechanging.” For more information or to register, visit YogaCenterCollinsville.com/workshop or call 860-693-9642. See ad on page 14.
Kindness is in our power, even when fondness is not. ~Samuel Johnson
njoy a fabulous blend of nature and yoga. On July 4, 5, 11, 19, 25 and August 2 and 8 there will be Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) yoga classes led by a certified yoga instructor from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Upper Mill Pond in Collinsville. On July 25, additional classes will run at 11 a.m. and again at 4 p.m. as part of the Collinsville Hot event. SUP boards are selected for their stability to make balance easy. They have a full-length, non-slip mat on the surface. Each board comes equipped with a life preserver, paddle and anchor. Students paddle a short distance to the class on the water and then drop anchor to keep their board in the class area. The pond is a small lake created by a historic dam on the Farmington River. It’s the perfect place to enjoy SUP Yoga as the current is very mild and the crystal clear water ranges from one to eight feet deep. Students should wear quick drying clothes and shoes they can kick off at the shoreline, lock belongings in their car and then lock their car key in the security box on shore to keep everything safe. Classes are typically small with eight to ten students. Morning and evening classes are especially peaceful and nature is in full view. Private classes for groups can be arranged. Cost is $49/student, which includes board rental. For more information, contact Yoga Center of Collinsville. 860-693-9642. YogaCenterCollinsville.com/supyoga. See ad on page 3.
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July 2015
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34 Jerome Avenue, Suite 305 Bloomfield, CT 06002 T: 860-519-1916 | F: 860-986-6756 34 Jerome Avenue, Suite 305, Bloomfield, CT 06002 info@IntegrativeWellnessandPT.com Info@IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com • www.IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com www.IntegrativeWellnessandPT.com
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Medicare Accepted
eventspotlight HOT Celebration Brings Art, Music & Water Fire Display to Collinsville by Debbie Marconi
T
hough it’s listed as one of “America’s 10 Coolest Small Towns,” on July 25 (rain date July 26), the town of Collinsville will be transformed into a sizzling outdoor celebration called CollinsvilleHOT. The full-day event is an ideal way for individuals and families to spend the day enjoying the outdoors, trying new things and witnessing spectacular entertainment. CollinsvilleHOT kicks off at 9 a.m. with an outdoor yoga class accompanied by live music. The day ends after dusk with a spectacular water fire display, which consists of 16 floating fires that will light up the waters of a one-half mile stretch of the Farmington River. The hours in between will be filled with activities for all ages, including a chalk walk art contest, live music, an arts and crafts fair, dog photo contest, stand up paddle yoga classes and a farm-to-table dinner event.
will transform a block of pavement on River Street into art canvasses. Sidewalk chalk will be provided and participants are invited to arrive as early as 7 a.m. to begin working on their creations. Prizes will be awarded to the top chalk works at 2 p.m. Many treasurers can be found in the heart of Collinsville where artisans once crafted exquisite tools. These days, jewelers, painters and woodworkers rival their ancestors at the CollinsvilleHOT Artisans’ Fair. At dusk, Joseph FireCrow, Native American flute player, will call visitors to the river for the lighting of the water fires. FireCrow was the recipient of the Native American Musician’s Song of the Year award in 2011 and won the Best Flute Recording award in 2013. He has released eight solo albums.
For the Active
While the theme is hot, there are plenty of cool activities for kids and the youngat-heart. An international, award-winning artist will offer face painting, glitter tattoos and henna. A dog photo contest will provide fun for participants and bystanders alike. Children are invited to create giant bubbles and other projects with a local artist and the Canton Fire Department will be on hand to offer tours of the department’s equipment. There will also be plenty of snacks including popcorn, pretzels and ice cream to enjoy.
In addition to a free community yoga class on Main St. at 9 a.m., stand up paddle (SUP) yoga classes will be offered at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Cost for SUP yoga is $49 per person, which includes all equipment needed. If you’ve ever considered trying SUP boarding, this is the perfect time!
For Art and Music Aficionados
In addition to live music from several local bands, visitors and artists of all ages will be drawn to the chalk walk, a competitive, community activity where master artists, talented amateurs and families
For Families
For Foodies
During the day, visitors are invited to
enjoy an outdoor buffet and sample a variety of beers in the beer garden. All-day patio seating is available at local restaurants. In the evening, those interested in experiencing a true farmers’ marketto-table meal with locally-sourced, in-season produce can purchase tickets for a six-course menu that includes wine pairings. Cost is $100 per person, which includes tax and gratuity. Seating begins at 5:30 p.m.
Water Fire Extravaganza
Featured in Rolling Stone magazine and Entertainment Weekly, Anatolia the fire goddess will kick off the lighting of the highly anticipated water fire event. Anatolia has danced around the globe from India to Egypt. Her unique style and custom props, including a 10-foot golden fire dress, Isis wings and fire masks, make her an ideal hostess for such an event. Visitors are encouraged to walk the Farmington River’s one-half mile Rail-to-Trail path to enjoy all vantage points of the fire displays. Parking will be available at local lots, with shuttle bus service to key event sites. CollinsvilleHOT is the brainchild of the Collinsville Merchants Association and is supported by local merchants and several individual contributors.
For more information and a schedule of events, visit CollinsvilleHot.com. See ad on inside front cover. natural awakenings
July 2015
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healthbriefs Yoga for Gardening
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ardening has been shown to produce many health benefits, including improved mental health, physical activity, nutrition and reduced stress. Gardeners’ bodies soak up these health benefits, but hours pulling weeds, dragging hoses and leaning over garden beds can also do a number on the body, putting it at risk for injury. Gardeners who incorporate yoga into their summer routine can make time spent in the garden (and after) much more comfortable and pleasant. A specially designed yoga practice can help support the gardening habit in four important ways.
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1. Sweet relief: Yoga poses can relieve many of the aches and pains associated with gardening. Many yoga students experience a decrease in neck, shoulder and back pain, areas that often trouble gardeners. 2. Improved balance: Balance poses such as tree pose and warrior three are invaluable to gardeners and can help prevent falls. 3. Increased flexibility: A flexible body, especially improved mobility of the hips, knees and shoulders, can improve the comfort level of your gardening experience a hundred-fold. Squat with strength and no pain while pulling weeds and then give thanks to yoga! 4. Injury prevention: Trip over hoses much? Mindful breathing practices (pranayama) can help link movement to breath and prevent injuries associated with gardening. A yoga practice – whether at home, in a group class, or outside amongst the tomatoes – can do wonders to support the health benefits that will grow along with your garden. A local yoga teacher will be more than happy to help find a fitting practice. Elizabeth Bohmier, MSW, RYT teaches at Yoga Center of Collinsville and is in the process of converting her two-acre suburban backyard into an edible landscape/mini-farm. See ad on page 14.
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Train Your Brain to Crave Healthier Food
e didn’t begin life craving high fat, sweet foods and disliking vegetables. This conditioning happens over time in response to eating unhealthy foods over and over again. We live in a toxic food environment. School lunchrooms and vending machines overflow with junk food and sports drinks. Fifty percent of meals are eaten outside the home and most of us don’t even know what we are eating. A recent study conducted at Tufts’ Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center found that a behavioral weight-loss program over time can reprogram your brain’s food cravings. This study used MRI scans of the brain’s addiction center to see changes in the response to healthy and unhealthy food. The scans showed that it is possible to train the brain to reverse cravings and temptation for unhealthy food, replacing former cravings with temptation for healthier foods. A weight-loss program focusing on behavior education with a high-fiber, low-glycemic menu plan can reprogram your brain, reduce cravings for unhealthier foods and help individuals enjoy healthier entrees. Jane Grant is a registered dietician, certified health coach, and owner of Grant’s Nutrition and Wellness. For more information, call 860-357-2282. See ad on page 36.
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July 2015
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Stress Ramps Up Inflammation
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esearch led by Peggy Zoccola, Ph.D., an assistant professor of psychology at Ohio University, has found that dwelling upon events that are stressful can significantly increase inflammatory chemicals in the body. The researchers tested 34 healthy young women giving public presentations for job interviews. Afterward, half were asked to contemplate their performances while the others were asked to think about neutral events and images. While all of the women initially experienced significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), the levels continued to rise for at least one hour afterward for the performance-ruminating group, but returned to normal during the same time period for those that pondered neutral thoughts. CRP is produced in the liver and is known to rise following an injury or in a chronic inflammatory condition. “The immune system plays an important role in various cardiovascular disorders such as heart disease, as well as cancer, dementia and autoimmune diseases,� states Zoccola.
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Eating Peanuts Early On Reduces Allergy Risk
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eanut allergies in Western countries have doubled during the past decade. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine may help reverse this trend. Researchers found that introducing peanuts during early childhood can actually decrease the risk of developing a peanut allergy later in life. The researchers followed 640 children with a high risk of food allergies, beginning when they were between 4 and 11 months old. Half the children were fed peanuts, while the other half were not given any. All were tested for sensitivities to peanuts prior to and at the end of the study period, which averaged five years. The research found that nearly 14 percent of those that avoided peanuts had a peanut allergy at the end of five years; seven times more than the 2 percent of those that were fed peanuts and displayed subsequent sensitivity.
Find Your Balance Discover the Benefits Yoga Brings to Life
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Yoga differs from many forms of exercise in that it uniquely blends mind and body for lifelong wellness. Yoga as a regular part of your life offers many physical benefits including increased flexibility and balance, improved strength and relief from joint pain. Yoga also incorporates techniques that provide increased mental focus, stress relief, lowered blood pressure and a deeper self-awareness. 10 Front Street, Collinsville, CT 06019
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Flaxseed Oil Soothes Carpal Tunnel
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arpal tunnel syndrome is typically accompanied by pain, numbness and reduced mobility in the hands and wrists. Research published by the Tehran (Iran) University of Medical Sciences in the DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences has determined that the application of external linseed oil—also referred to as flaxseed oil—can reduce pain and increase mobility for syndrome sufferers. The research tested 100 patients with the condition in two groups—one rubbed placebo oil onto their wrists, while the other applied linseed oil daily over a four-week period. Both groups wore wrist splints at night. After the treatment period, those that applied linseed oil experienced a significant drop in pain scores using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and Function Assessment. The same patients also reported an improvement in mobility and function.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE
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esearch from the University of Virginia and Emory University has found that just a few minutes of mindfulness meditation a day can significantly reduce high blood pressure among AfricanAmericans. The research included 15 men with high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease in a crossover study that tested each with 14 minutes of mindfulness meditation and compared that with 14 minutes of blood pressure education during two different treatment periods. Results showed that practicing mindfulness meditation reduced systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure and heart rate among the patients.
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The long-term study of GMO foods is going on in real time and in real life, not in a lab. ~Ziggy Marley
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Fresh Catch
Community Supported Fisheries Share Bounty of the Sea Community supported agriculture is a growing movement in which subscribers pay farmers for weekly shares of their crops before the growing season starts, benefiting both. The farmers receive an infusion of cash up front and are paid a fair price for the food they produce. Consumers receive fresh food from sustainable, local farms and are often introduced to vegetables and fruits they might not try otherwise. The same concept applies to new community supported fisheries (CSF), which reconnect coastal communities to their local food systems. According to Paul Greenberg, author of American Catch: The Fight for our Local Seafood, 91 percent of the seafood that Americans eat comes from other countries, while one-third of the seafood caught by American fishermen is sold outside our borders. He believes this situation exists because most Americans aren’t willing to pay premium prices for better seafood and domestic fishermen realize better prices overseas. By using the website LocalCatch.org/locator to find nearby CSF programs, pioneering coastal communities can benefit from both supporting sustainable fishing practices and their local environment while still sufficiently feeding their residents. Source: Mother Nature Network
Protests Needed Food Industry Fudges GMO Facts The U.S. Right to Know nonprofit has issued a report, Seedy Business: What Big Food Is Hiding with Its Slick PR Campaign on GMOs (usrtk.org/seedybusiness.pdf). It outlines the food industry’s campaign to manipulate the media, public opinion and politics with disreputable tactics, company-sponsored science and public relations spin. Since 2012, the agrichemical and food industries have mounted a complex, multifaceted public relations, advertising, lobbying and political campaign in the U.S. spending more than $100 million per year to defend genetically engineered food and crops and the pesticides that accompany them, the authors report. The purpose is to deceive the public, deflect efforts to win the right to know what’s in our food via labeling that’s now required in 64 countries and ultimately, to extend their profit stream at any cost to the public for as long as possible. Highlights include a history of the industry’s tactics to conceal information, ensure lack of government policy and testing for genetically modified organisms (GMOs), attack credible scientists and journalists and support untrustworthy advocates and political machinations. 16
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Fracking Fallout
Waterways, Soils and Animals Poisoned with EPA Approval Surface disposal of water produced by oil and gas drilling is forbidden in the Eastern U.S., but allowed in arid Western states for purposes of agricultural or wildlife propagation. The result: Millions of gallons of water laced with toxic chemicals from oil and gas drilling rigs are pumped for consumption by wildlife and livestock with approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA is issuing permits at nearly a dozen oil fields on or abutting the Native American Wind River Reservation, in Wyoming, for surface application of drilling wastewater without even identifying the chemicals in fluids used for hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, let alone setting effluent limits for the contaminants contained within them. Also, monitoring requirements allow water to be tested long after fracking outflow, or maintenance flushing, is completed. The EPA maintains Clean Water Act jurisdiction on tribal lands. Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) Executive Director Jeff Ruch states, “Gushers of putrid, grayish water encrusted with chemical crystals flood through Wind River into nearby streams.” PEER is asking the EPA to rewrite the permits to regulate all the chemicals being discharged and to determine whether the produced water is potable for wildlife and livestock. Source: Tinyurl.com/Wastewater FrackingUse
GMO Gains Food Supplies Increasingly Under Siege
Three hundred farmers recently took over the building and interrupted a meeting where the Brazil National Biosafety Technical Commission was deciding whether or not to introduce genetically engineered (GE/ GM/GMO) transgenic eucalyptus trees into their biosphere. These activists and thousands more around the country have halted plans temporarily, but the assault continues by international corporations bent on patenting and controlling the environment itself. At home, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has already approved the first corporate-sponsored, patented, genetically modified tree, ArborGen’s loblolly pine. Despite outspoken public opposition, the USDA approved it with no public oversight nor assessment of the environmental risks it poses. Grass-fed beef farmers, supplying an alternative that many seek to avoid GMO feed grain, now have to cope with the advent of genetically modified grass. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, Monsanto’s exclusive consumer sales agent for RoundUp glyphosate weed killer, intends to conduct field trials at the homes of company employees absent government oversight, because no laws currently prohibit or limit the planting of GMO grass. In February, the government approved the first genetically modified apple for commercial planting. The Arctic apple is part of a growing list of sanctioned GMO fresh produce, including papaya and sweet corn. A gene within the apple is altered so it resists browning and bruising. Many people die or go blind from vitamin A deficiency, so the Gates Foundation has funded research by Australia’s Queensland University of Technology to create a vitamin-enhanced, GMO “super banana”. Testing on humans will take place in the U.S. over a six-week period and researchers aim to start growing the fruit in Uganda by 2020. Sign concerned-citizen petitions at Tinyurl.com/Credo-No-GMO-Trees and Tinyurl.com/Care2-No-GMO-Grass.
ecotip Soil Savers
The Need to Protect Precious Native Topsoils American states salute their native identities and characteristics in many ways, including official birds and flowers. Home farmers, growers and gardeners can relish that soils also bear official state designations, including New York’s Honeoye, South Carolina’s Lynchburg, Alabama’s Bama, Iowa’s Tama and California’s San Joaquin. All these different types of earth are threatened by widespread use of pesticides, topsoil degradation and other factors that severely hamper their integrity. The U.N. General Assembly declared 2015 as the International Year of Soils, saluting its many roles, including storing and filtering water, providing resilience to drought, participating in the carbon cycle and being the foundation for agriculture. According to The Land Institute, the loss of topsoil is the greatest threat to our food supply. Planting perennial crops, agroforestry, intercropping and other agro-ecological practices can help conserve soils, preventing erosion and protecting water. According to GreenLiving.com, these sustainable practices can help prevent soil erosion: Reduce impervious surfaces. Driveways, patios and lanais allow precipitation to flow freely over them, gaining momentum in the process, to erode topsoil. Use paving stones rather than a concrete slab to allow water to percolate down into the soil. Plant a rain garden. As a shallow depression in the yard, a rain garden collects precipitation washing over impervious surfaces, preventing soil erosion and facilitating growth of wetland plants. Use a rain barrel. Placing a barrel underneath a downspout will collect and store water that runs off roofs, making it available for watering plants even when rain is sporadic. It supports both water and soil conservation efforts. Consider innovative products. Fiber mulch mats—small, biodegradable particles of wood, straw, coconut and other natural plant materials interlocked with mulch—blend with soil to keep moisture in the topsoil by acting as a top coating. (Review representative manufacturers’ products at LandscapePlanet.com and ErosionPollution.com.) Find the official soil for each state at Tinyurl.com/NativeStateSoils.
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MANIFEST MIRACLES Tap Into the Field of Infinite Possibility by Deborah Shouse
focusing on life’s blessings and noticed how concentrating on the good made life happier and more dynamic. Then she started to lay out simple intentions such as finding a good parking spot or uncovering a lost object. The results were immediate and intriguing. This seeker of truth realized that to gain real spiritual growth, she needed to become more deliberate, so she designed a scientific framework, set a clear intention, imposed a deadline and noted the results. “The results were so convincing that I decided to see if my experiments would work for other people,” Grout says. Before long, friends and acquaintances were manifesting all kinds of amazing things, and she decided to write about her theories. Ten years later, after a steep learning curve in the publishing world, her work became globally acclaimed.
Tapping a Joyful Reality of Miracles “Something amazingly awesome is going to happen to me today.”
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hese are the first words Pam Grout speaks when she rises every morning before dancing her way into the bathroom. She plays a favorite uplifting tune such as Pharrell William’s Happy or Abba’s Dancing Queen and creates a sassy choreography complete with fist pumps, joyous jumps and a little rhythmic strutting. Her easy positive actions take no longer than it would to worry, “How will I get everything done today?” and then trudging into the bathroom feeling fatigued and overwhelmed. Plus, Grout’s playful attitude makes a big difference in the rest of the day’s outcomes. Grout is the author of two internationally bestselling books, E-Squared and E-Cubed. Both offer readers multiple opportunities to experience a disarmingly simple outlook on life. “There is an infinite force of potentiality in the universe that has our backs and wants to interact with us and guide us,” Grout believes. “There is no absolute 18
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reality; we create the reality that serves us and places our attention on what we most want.”
Letting Go of Doubt
Grout’s journey to a life filled with joy and miracles is ongoing. As a freelance writer, she initially struggled with self-doubt, wondering, “What do I, a kid from Kansas, have to offer a New York City editor?” and came face-to-face with fears about money. Even though she was earning a decent living, she was recycling her parents’ anxieties about not having enough. “I’m not good enough” was another party crasher. When she began studying A Course in Miracles, Grout learned that consciousness creates the material world and the importance of self-compassion. She examined her staunch beliefs, questioning if they were true and letting go of the tiresome stories of inadequacy and worry. She began
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“This little book will prove to you once and for all that your thoughts have power, and that a field of infinite possibilities awaits your claim,” the author writes in E-Squared. “It will help you rewrite the outdated thinking that drives your life.” Nine easy energy experiments will prove that the “field of potentiality,” as Grout calls it, is dependable, predictable and available to all. She equates our connection with the field to plugging in a toaster. We know the energy field is there, but we need to consciously “plug in” to use it. Grout details powerful spiritual principles that help us make everyday life richer, more meaningful and more fun. Part of her “new curriculum” includes: n Reality is waves of possibility that we have “observed” into form. n We are an energy field, connected with everything and everyone in the universe. n Our universe connection provides accurate and unlimited guidance. n Whatever we focus on expands. n The universe is limitless, abundant and surprisingly accommodating.
“Believe in your bones that the universe is bountiful and supportive,” encourages Grout, asking us to first give the “field” 48 hours to send an unexpected gift. Don’t specify the gift, but just ask to receive and recognize the blessing. Set a deadline and then watch what unfolds.
Making Dreams Come True
Making our dreams a reality for us is not only possible, it’s probable. The key is opening our hearts to the beneficent universe. “If you want to know what will happen in your life, listen to the words coming out of your mouth,” Grout advises. If we are deluged with negative thoughts, stop and notice all that is right in our world. Ask the universe for help in shedding dark ruminations. When we replace poor images with positive affirming thoughts, our lives become more magical and enjoyable. Grout encourages her readers to invoke two words when life feels chaotic and out of control: “It’s okay,” which allows the loving flow of the universe to do the heavy lifting. Concentrating on living our joys equips us to help ourselves and others. Grout queries, “Since we are creating our reality, why not create the possibilities that bring us closer to our life’s purpose and higher self?” For more on Pam Grout’s work, follow her inspiring blog at PamGrout.com. Deborah Shouse is the author of Love in the Land of Dementia: Finding Hope in the Caregiver’s Journey; she blogs at DementiaJourney.org.
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marlbOrOugh, ma
JUly 9 - JUly 10, 2015 Free Public Programs July 9 | Morning program begins at 10:00am | Evening program begins at 7:00pm July 10 | Morning program begins at 10:00am Devi bhava – Free Program | a celebration DevoteD to worlD Peace July 10 | Evening Program begins at 7:00pm and continues until the morning hours location Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center 181 Boston Post Road West (Rt 20) | Marlborough, MA 01752 inFormation For more information on Amma’s New England activities please visit ammanewengland.org/tour or call 716.226.6223 NUmbered tokeNs for iNdividUal blessiNgs are distribUted at 8:30am for morNiNg programs, aNd 5:45pm for eveNiNg programs. devi bhava tokeNs are distribUted at 5:30pm. tokeNs are limited by time coNstraiNts. visit www.amma.org for more iNformatioN.
O m l O k a h s a m a s ta h s u k h i n O b h av a n t u
m ay a l l b e i n g s e v e r y w h e r e b e h a p p y
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Practicing “Beginners Mind” to Invite Inspiration by Alexandra Lowry, Certified Integrative Life Coach
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he origin of the word “inspire” dates back to 1300s Middle English “inspiren,” which in Latin means “to breathe upon or into, of extraordinary quality, as if arising from an external creative impulse.” How does one invite and create an inspired life? It can be as simple as a momentary pause, a breather, a shift into a state of not knowing, welcoming what Zen Buddhism refers to as “Shoshin,” which means an attitude of openness, eagerness and a “beginner’s mind.” Beginner’s mind is not always easy in this world of chronic busyness. Many people simply want to be “in the know.” This striving may be helpful at times; however, when prolonged, it can be a disaster for the human spirit, blocking the soul whispers and inner wisdom guidance. In this society of doing greater, farther, and faster, people are lost in a tempest of what amounts to
“counterfeit success.” A habitual response to the proverbial “How are you?” is now, “So busy!” This is often expressed as if it’s badge of courage or reflection of self-importance. In humans, the ego mind is naturally wired to classify, categorize and judge all experiences. While extremely helpful in paying the bills, the ego logic mind will never bring forth inspiration like sacred intuition will. How can one invite inspiration and creativity if the mind is constantly cluttered? Create the space. One can ask the following questions. What valuable, creative ideas am I missing in the narrowness of my thinking? What doors of opportunity am I slamming shut by closed mindedness, or by my perceived expertise? How am I limiting my experiences by my preconceptions of the world? Do I have a growth mindset or a fixed one… and is my belief system one of abundance or lack? Simply asking these questions can
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lead to greater awareness and spark insights that lead to inspiration! Practicing beginners mind can greatly enrich life, inviting more joy, love and creativity. It can help in facing setbacks or disappointments. Not to be confused with denial or irresponsible thinking, it’s a powerful choice one can exercise to take a pause and decide what there is to be learned. In this pause, many people find something magical and inspiring that results in taking a path perhaps not seen before. Alexandra Lowry is a Certified Integrative Life Coach, Breakthrough Mastery Coach, Infinite Possibilities Trainer/Teacher and Inspired & Intentional Living Speaker with The Wisdom Alliance. For more information or to schedule a private discovery session or public speaking engagement, call 860-5591264 or visit TheWisdomAlliance.com. See ad on page 6.
Saturdays: 9 am –1 pm JULY 18 AUGUST 8 SEPTEMBER 12
TO REGISTER: call (860) 236-6009 or email info@hartfordfamilyinstitute.com All workshops take place at HFI
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India’s Renowned Humanitarian Coming to Boston by Faith Pomeroy-Ward
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piritual leader, humanitarian and visionary Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, known to millions around the world as “Amma,” will host four free public programs at the Best Western Royal Trade Center in Marlborough at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on July 9 and 10. Amma travels the world, guiding people to emotional fulfillment and offering insights and solutions to global issues such as environmental pollution, the mistreatment of women and religious disharmony. She inspires those she meets to make more space in their hearts for others and to dedicate time to social service. Amma’s teachings are universal. Whenever she is asked about her religion, she replies, “My religion is love.” Amma does not ask anyone to believe in God or to change their faith, but to look at their own real nature and to believe in themselves. Amma’s dedication to uplifting others has culminated in a vast network of charitable projects in India and around the world, under the global banner of Embracing the World. For this work, Amma has received numerous international awards including the Gandhi-King Award for Non-Violence, the James Parks Morton Interfaith Award and the Cinema Verite Award for humanitarian and human rights work. In December 2014, Amma joined Pope Francis and 10 other global spiritual leaders from a range of faiths to sign the Declaration of Religious Leaders Against Modern Slavery.
More recently, after the Nepal earthquake, Embracing the World representatives arrived the day after the disaster to provide relief and evaluate options for longer-term aid. Embracing the World does much work in this area, providing long-term solutions for disaster-struck zones, often being one of the first organizations to supply aid and then one of the last to leave. At the center of Amma’s life is her darshan: the tender, caring embrace that has been sought out by millions. It is in this intimate manner—a heartfelt hug—that she receives one and all, listens to their problems and gives them the inspiration and knowledge to uplift themselves and, ultimately, others. “When I approached Amma to receive her darshan (hug), I felt her look penetrate my entire being—as if I could not hide any feelings or thoughts from her,” stated Maria Isabel Harker of Bogota, Columbia. “Amma embraced me and I felt so deeply loved.” People from all religions and all walks of life attend Amma’s free programs. Some come because they are suffering mentally, physically or materially, and they hope Amma can help. Others are simply curious. Regardless of why they have come, many describe experiencing a feeling of radiant and unconditional love in Amma’s presence. Some are moved to tears and feel a cleansing of old wounds; others experience profound peace or joy. “[Amma] sat there, hour after hour,
sweetly hugging everyone with the same love and compassion, without stopping for even a few minutes. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen,” said Berta Petasny of Buenos Aires, Argentina. There are many powerful stories from people who have met Amma, providing an insight into the way in which Amma is able to deeply affect people. “Meeting Amma has changed my life immensely. Over time I understood that it is the small, small stones…of rage, guilt, longing, pain, nostalgia…that form the great wall in our hearts that imprison the inner child. We trip over these stones every day in our ignorance. The greatest blessing we receive from Amma is that she offers to take these stones from us,” said Cristina Rodriguez of Barcelona, Spain. Amma’s message of love and compassion resonates powerfully in today’s world, and Amma’s record of compassion in action inspires volunteers all over the world to selflessly serve others. In the words of Professor Muhammad Yunus, 2006 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, “Amma has done more work than many governments have ever done for their people…her contribution is enormous.” For more information about Amma and her Boston programs, visit AmmaNewEngland.org/tour. Visit EmbracingTheWorld.org for more details about Amma’s charitable activities. See ad on page 19.
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Food Democracy By the People, for the People and Toward a Stronger Nation by Melinda Hemmelgarn
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o more fully understand the concept of democracy, we can look to some past U.S. presidents. Abraham Lincoln defined it as “government of the people, by the people, for the people.” Thomas Jefferson said, “An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy.” Harry S. Truman further recognized that “secrecy and a free, democratic government don’t mix.” By extension, “food democracy” describes a fair and transparent food system in which people have informed choices and control in determining what and how they eat. It’s what happens when we view people as citizens, rather than consumers, and treat food as a human right, reports the Oakland, California-based Pesticide Action Network (PAN). Kelly Moltzen, a registered dietitian in Bronx, New York, and member of the Franciscan Earth Corps, defines it as having the freedom to make choices
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about the integrity of our food from farm to plate, so that we can support the health and well-being of ourselves, the Earth and all organisms that inhabit the ecosystem.
Food Sovereignty Feeds Independence
A PAN report on food democracy describes food sovereignty as the international equivalent of the U.S. movement to re-localize control over our food and farming. It’s rooted in regenerating historically autonomous food systems with, for and by the people. John Peck, Ph.D., executive director of Family Farm Defenders, in Madison, Wisconsin, explains that the term “food sovereignty” was coined about two decades ago by the globally active La Via Campesina, comprised of family farmers, farm workers, fishing folks, hunters, gatherers and indigenous communities around the world.
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“At its most basic,” Peck says, “Food sovereignty is about reclaiming local democratic control over our food/ farm system from corporate agribusiness.” This way, “Everyone has the right to decide what is grown or raised in their community, whether animals are treated humanely, if family farmers and other food workers are paid a living wage and can collectively bargain and whether people have access to safe, healthy food—as well as the right to know what is in their food, how it is produced and where it comes from.” Peck believes that if we want a cleaner environment, healthier people and more vibrant communities, “We need to be citizens that care about bringing democratic accountability, social justice and ecological integrity to all aspects of our food/farm system.”
Local Food Strengthens Communities
In their report, Deepening Food Democracy, the Institute of Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP), in Minneapolis, describes how U.S. food and farming has increasingly become concentrated, consolidated and controlled by the few. Local food enthusiasts want to take back their food system from industrial, corporate masters that lobby for legislation which denies citizens the right to know how their food is produced or if it contains genetically modified ingredients (GMO). The growing local food movement is as much about returning power to communities, food workers, farmers and farm workers as it is about producing and distributing healthy, sustainably grown food, reports IATP. Anthony Flaccavento, an organic farmer in the Appalachian region of southwestern Virginia, has been working on national food and sustainable farming initiatives for nearly 30 years. In a recent Food Sleuth Radio interview, he described the resulting tremendous, multiple positive impacts of strong local economies, noting that a strong local food system is usually at their center. “Once you have vibrant, diverse local economies,” says Flaccavento, “you have better health, lower crime
and incarceration our community.” In a food democracy, rates—and more Understanding the civic participation.” everyone is a stakeholder. value of involving Basically, a more children and teens, Not only do people have democratic food she adds, “Kids system could help fix equal access to food, but know they will be many of the maladies they’re informed, active, loved here. This is a ailing our nation environengaged and participating. nurturing today. The steady ment.” growth of farmers’ Like Mwendo, ~Rose Hayden-Smith, author, markets, farm to Stephen Ritz, a top school programs and Sowing the Seeds of Victory 10 finalist in the food policy councils Varkey Foundation’s prove that Americans are hungry both Global Teacher Prize, is reaching youth for clean food and an enhanced sense through food. Based in New York City’s of community. South Bronx, one of the country’s poorWhile Flaccavento est school districts, he and his students appreciates conscious consumers are growing vegetables in school, thereby that support local food providers, he improving children’s diets, health, school emphasizes, “Just acting locally isn’t performance and future potential. “We enough. We need to re-engage with are contributing to food democracy bigger social and political debates, by making sure every child we touch, as well.” regardless of income, zip code and skin color, faith or nation of origin, has access to fresh, healthy, nutritious food that they Growing Vegetables help grow,” says Ritz. and Democracy So far, his Green Bronx Machine After Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, community has raised 30,000 pounds of Jenga Mwendo knew she had to leave her vegetables. “We’re growing justice,” Ritz high-powered job in New York City and announced in his March 2015 TED Talk. return to her hometown in the devastated “My favorite crop is organically grown Lower Ninth Ward. “My parents raised citizens—graduates, voters and students me to contribute,” Mwendo explains. “My who are eating [better] and living healthifirst name means ‘to build’ and my last er lives!” name means ‘always progressing’.” In 2009, Mwendo founded the Backyard Gardeners Network (BGN), a local nonprofit organization that restores and strengthens what had once been a thriving, closely knit, self-reliant community, rich with backyard gardens and citizen engagement. Residents went to work, recognizing the potential of community gardens to revitalize their neighborhood and bring affordable healthful food to residents, many of them suffering from obesity, heart disease and diabetes. The BGN both revitalized a community garden and converted a blighted lot into a Guerrilla Garden, where people of all ages gather to grow food, share stories, embrace their cultural heritage and learn how to become responsible citizens. “We bring people together and make decisions collectively,” says Mwendo. “The garden is for our community, by
Kitchen Gardens Nourish the World
Roger Doiron is the founder and director of Kitchen Gardeners International (KGI), an online global community of some 30,000 people in 100 countries that are growing some of their own food. He spearheaded First Lady Michelle Obama’s White House Garden. Doiron’s campaign to bring a food garden back to the White House (presidents John Adams, Jefferson and Jackson all had edible gardens) began in 2008, went viral, took root and the rest is history. Today, the first lady continues to champion garden-fresh food to improve children’s health. From his own 1,500-square-foot garden in Scarborough, Maine, Doiron and his wife harvested 900 pounds of organic fruits and vegetables worth $2,200 in a single season. “Talented gardeners with more generous soils and climates are able to produce even more food in less space,” he says, “but maximizing production is not our only goal. We’re also trying to maximize pleasure and health.” Doiron believes, “Quality food is central to well-being and is one of the best ways to unite people of different countries and cultures around a common, positive agenda.” He’s convinced that kitchen gardens will play a critical role in feeding a growing population faced with climate challenges. On July 4, his organiza-
DON’T PANIC, IT’S ORGANIC! July CSA Special
Call 860.658.9297 today. Mention Natural Awakenings and receive four weeks of fresh, organic produce for only $130.
The freshest organic produce for your family each week. 180 Old Farms Road Simsbury, CT 06070 GeorgeHallFarm.com natural awakenings
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tion celebrates Food Independence Day as a way to recognize the role of home and community gardens in achieving self-sufficiency.
Saving Seeds, Saving Democracy
Jim Gerritsen operates Wood Prairie Farm with his family in Bridgewater, Maine. He’s dedicated to using organic farming methods to protect the environment and food quality, provide ample harvests and foster good jobs for the next generation of young farmers. As president of the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association, Gerritsen led a lawsuit against Monsanto in 2011, challenging the validity of seed patents. In a Food Sleuth Radio interview, he explains, “Patented seeds cannot be saved and replanted. To take that right away from farmers was a terrible mistake on the part
of the Supreme Court.” Seed ownership belongs to the people; our seed resource is part of our common heritage. “Genetic engineering was an invention to take away from the commons the ownership of seeds,” he continues. “Regaining control of the seed supply is one of the most pressing battles we have in agriculture.” Gerritsen encourages everyone to plant an organic garden using organic seeds and to advocate GMO labeling. “Let’s let transparency reign, which is a hallmark of a democratic system,” he proclaims. Melinda Hemmelgarn is a registered dietitian and award-winning writer and nationally syndicated radio host at KOPN.org, in Columbia, MO (FoodSleuth@gmail.com). She advocates for organic farmers at Enduring-Image.blogspot.com.
From Food Consumer to Food Citizen
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ow is the time for all good men and women to become food citizens. Making the transition from being a mere consumer to community citizen requires addressing a set of questions geared to lead to food truth and justice for all. n Where does my food come from? n Who produced it? n Under what conditions was this food grown or produced; were workers treated fairly and animals humanely? n What’s in or on my food; am I eating pesticides, antibiotics, hormones, genetically modified ingredients or additives? n What might be the unintended consequences of my food choices for farmers competing against big agribusiness and striving to do the right thing? n How might my choices affect the environment and future generations? n What local, state and national policies stand in the way of a fair and transparent food system?
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George Hall Farm of Simsbury A Rich History in Organic Foods by Debbie Marconi
Daren Hall, Organic Farmer
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eorge Hall Farm, a 100-acre farm nestled in Simsbury, grows more than 50 types of vegetables, fruits and herbs and offers them for sale through community supported agriculture (CSA) membership and local farmers’ markets. Hall’s Farm can be found at one of 16 farmers’ markets across Connecticut every day of the week. Daren Hall, nephew of the late George Hall who passed away last November at the age of 87, prides himself on providing the freshest, highest quality, certified organic produce. “My uncle owned this farm since 1964,” explained Daren. “One day, as his father was lying in bed battling cancer, George watched field workers spreading pesticide dust on cabbage. Because cabbage grows from the outside in, he realized these pesticides were being trapped inside the plant. He began to wonder if pesticides played a part in his father’s illness.” Since then, Daren adds, Hall’s Farm has been using techniques that are environmentally safe and organic. The farm has been certified organic for the last 35 years.” “We love what we do and it shows in the care we take with our produce,” said Hall. Healthy Soil for Nutrient Rich Foods According to Scientific American, as a result of soil depletion, crops grown decades ago were much richer in vitamins and minerals than the varieties most of us eat today. The key to healthier produce is healthier soil.
Part of the Eco System
It’s all about the soil
Alternating fields between growing seasons gives soil time to restore and protects its phytonutrients, which are compounds that have the potential to reduce the risk of four modern health issues: cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and dementia. “We rotate our crops each season,” said Hall. “By doing so, we interrupt the breeding cycles of pests so we don’t have to use pesticides and never overburden the soil.” Hall is also a member of the Bionutrient Food Association, which is a nationally recognized, non-profit organization that advocates for vital soils and nourishing food. “The group analyzes soil samples from my fields and tells me exactly what minerals I need in each field to ensure I’m producing the most nutrient-dense food possible,” states Hall. “Because I grew up farming, I know which nutrients are lacking just by looking at which weeds are growing, but having scientific guidance certainly helps me stop second guessing if what I‘m doing is too much or not enough.” CSA Offers the Freshest Produce One of the most popular offerings of Hall’s Farm is the weekly CSA pickup that takes place every Tuesday from 2-6 p.m. at the farm and every Wednesday from 3-6:30 p.m. at the Shelton farmers’ market. Customers buy “shares” of the farm’s produce and receive a weekly allotment of freshly picked organic produce. In general, members receive approximately 500 pounds of vegetables over a 20-week period. As an added benefit, CSA member can visit
the cut-your-own flower garden to pick a beautiful bouquet each week. For community members interested in trying a CSA membership, George Hall Farm is offering a special trial during July. Mention Natural Awakenings and receive four weeks of fresh produce for $130. Eggs and Honey and Pork, Oh My! The farm offers much more than just produce. Organic eggs, laid by more than 350 chickens that are fed an all-organic diet, are available for pickup at the farm or at the farmers’ markets. Also available is organic honey, produced by bees in boxes dispersed at the edge of the fields. The bees help pollinate all of Hall’s Farm crops. The farm’s pigs are in the process of being formally deemed organically raised, and are fed scraps remaining from farmers’ markets. Find Hall’s Farm at Local Farmers’ Markets George Hall Farm is at farmers’ markets in Avon, East Windsor, Hartford, West Hartford, Farmington, Middletown, Plainville, Shelton, Simsbury and South Windsor. These markets run through the summer and extend through fall and into winter. “Last year, we attended our last farmers’ market two weeks before Christmas,” says Hall. “Consumers want healthy foods all year long and appreciate knowing where they came from.” George Hall Farm, 180 Old Farms Rd, Simsbury. Contact 860-658-9297 or GeorgeHallFarm.com. See ad on page 23.
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KITCHEN MEDICINE from The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition by Debbie Marconi
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he Institute of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN) at Holcomb Farm in West Granby is a haven of knowledge where, over the course of one year and 12 weekends, attendees can receive certification in Sustainable Health and Nutrition. The process involves gaining understanding and hands-on experience as to how food and herbs can help sustain health. Joan Palmer, founder of TIOSN, is passionate about what she terms “The Art of Knowing,” explaining, “We’ve become so wrapped up in applying labels to ourselves, such as Paleo or Vegan, with strict rules around those labels, that we’ve stopped listening to what our bodies are asking for. We’ve lost sight of the health benefits and pleasures that exist in the food we eat. The main things we need to understand are: what real food is; what is the most sustainable, nutrient rich source for food; and what does my body want today, without any labels.” Palmer has been growing and using herbs and extolling the benefits of kitchen medicine since the 1990s. She has a master’s degree in Human Nutrition, a certification in herbology and teaches the Art and Science of Eating as part of an accredited master’s degree program at The Graduate Institute. Over the course of the 12 weekends, TIOSN’s staff offers four categories of instruction: the science of food and nutrition, sustainable gardening, culinary skills and kitchen medicine. In these classes, students plant, cook, ferment, forage, blend teas, grow, learn and build community.
Science of Food and Nutrition
Throughout the year, students learn key concepts of functional medicine from Science Director Alison Birks. Concepts 26
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such as the role of nutrients in human health, the microbiome and strategies for healing the gut, inflammation as an underlying cause of chronic disease, the role of adrenal stress, food sensitivities and the elimination diet. According to NPR, Western diets and modern-day hygiene have wiped dozens of species of bacteria from our digestive tracts. Without these, there are higher incidences of chronic illnesses connected to the immune system. TIOSN presents the latest research on the microbiome and how eating fermented foods is one of the foundations of health. Recently, Sandor Katz, the rock star of fermentation, presented a workshop at TIOSN to teach attendees how to prepare fermented delicacies teeming with beneficial bacteria. “Fermented foods are one of the most important ways to reestablish bacteria in the gut that has been depleted from stress, antibiotics and chemicals,” notes Palmer.
Sustainable Gardening
“Soil is the foundation of nutrition. Because the majority of our soils are depleted, it’s important to find sustainable ways to remineralize them,” commented Palmer. At TIOSN, students learn to remineralize gardens by making homemade amendments, including local rock dusts, fermentations, vinegar extractions and biologically-active and mineral-rich soil. The soil and amendments are tested and evaluated to understand changes. Students begin to understand the complexities of soil health and how it is intricately connected to our health. “Our soil and outdoor consultant, Nigel, is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic teacher,” says Palmer. “As part of his teaching, he discusses the seasonal
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changes occurring around us in relation to the planets, bees, chickens and birds in our backyards.”
Kitchen Medicine
TIOSN strongly advocates the benefits of kitchen medicine. The course teaches students how to prepare simple, traditional remedies using cultivated and foraged foods and herbs to enhance health and prevent illness. “We are frequently out gathering nettles, dandelion and other nutrientrich ‘weeds’ to use in our culinary class and kitchen medicines,” states Palmer. “Students learn to stop the pain and swelling of a bee sting with local weeds, collect mullein flowers to treat earaches and cook immune-enhancing soups with wild and cultivated foods and herbs. We even instruct on how to formulate body care and cleaning products for the home using the same sources.” During the year, TIOSN hosts a variety of events that are open to the public, including sought-after guest speakers, hands-on classes and open house evenings. TIOSN is also hosting its first 10-month certificate program called “Remembering Our Roots Herbal Intensive.” From the classroom, to the kitchen, to the garden, to the woods, TIOSN is reshaping the way nutrition is taught and is preparing graduates of the program to go out into the community and spread the word of sustainable nutrition. Now entering its third year, TIOSN is currently accepting students for the 201516 course, which begins in September. The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition, 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby. For information, contact 860-764-9070 or TIOSN.com. See ad on inside front cover.
XYLITOL —Advertorial—
More Innovative than Antibiotics The Power of Xylitol Xylitol’s effectiveness in oral health and usage as a sweetener is well-known. New research also shows its usefulness in upper respiratory health. However, people may not know the reason why it is so effective. Xylitol has a unique ability to interfere with bacterial adhesion.
Anti-Adhesion Xylitol’s anti-adhesive effect was discovered by accident in 1996. A British medical journal published a study, which analyzed past research done with xylitol. Researchers found that there was an additional correlation between xylitol and upper respiratory infections—a correlation researchers didn’t see when the studies were performed originally. The 1996 study found that among the children tested in the studies, those who used xylitol chewing gum had 42% fewer ear infections. Researchers performed subsequent research to answer why there was this correlation. These studies supported the discovery of xylitol’s anti-adhesion property. Xylitol’s anti-adhesive effect interferes with bacteria sticking to tissue. In order for bacteria to thrive, they must attach to the cell membrane. There they metabolize and the body senses the bacteria, it reacts with various responses like congestion, runny nose, against bacterial infections using antibiotics, attempting to kill the bacteria. However, the use of antibiotics produces resistant bacterial strains, which leads to more serious problems. Xylitol’s anti-adhesive property interferes with bacterial adhesion, resulting in bacteria not being able to colonize and thrive; eventually they are washed out. This is an innovative way to avoid antibiotic resistance. Instead of them to become stronger and more resistant, xylitol doesn’t allow the bacteria to cling to the cell and start its metabolic processes. Professionals advise people to regularly wash
their hands to prevent illness. But washing with only water isn’t enough; they must wash with soap. Similarly, just as people should wash their hands, they should also wash their nasal passages. A normal saline solution is like washing with only water. Washing with a nasal spray containing xylitol is like washing hands with soap. Bacteria and People Bacteria, like people, congregate together. This is called quorum sensing. When people start coming together, they form a town or city. Bacteria act similarly; as they sense other bacterial “city.” If a group wanted to take over a city, historically they would send in soldiers to subdue the inhabitants so they could then occupy the city. However, there is no guarantee that they would control everyone, and there may be leftover survivors who rally together. But if that particular city were to have an extreme change in environment, the inhabitants wouldn’t be able to cope and they’d have to leave the city. Changing the environment is much more effective in expelling the inhabitants than attacking with soldiers.
What are Some of Xylitol’s Applications? Studies have shown numerous uses for xylitol, many of which deal with its adverse effects on bacterial adhesion. Sinus, ear, and respiratory infections begin in the nose as we breathe in bacteria which attempt to adhere to the cell membrane. With the use of nasal sprays containing xylitol, the bacteria found in the nose cannot stick to the tissue and are to greater probability that they will not infect the body. Nurse Practitioner Sherril Sego, FNPin this aspect. She says, “Saline nasal rinses containing xylitol have been found to be more effective than traditional saline rinses to reduce the symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis.” One of the best things about xylitol is that it is 100% natural and 100% safe. It’s no wonder so
Go to xlear.com and look up the patented Xlear Nasal Spray.
Relating this back to bacteria, if we use antibiotics, we are sending in soldiers to between antibiotics and the microorganisms, with both attempting to get stronger. But if we alter the environment in our nasal and sinus passages so that bacteria cannot adhere to the cell surface, and thus thrive, we win the battle.
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Guilt Free Grilling by Kristen Ludwig, Registered Dietician
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ummer is here and that means grilling season is upon us! The grill is a great way to cook up your favorite hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken and steak, but don’t forget about the delicious summer fruits and vegetables that are soon to be in-season. Kristen Ludwig, the Registered Dietitian at the ShopRite of Canton, has several great ideas for lighter and healthier options that can be served alongside your main grill grub. • Grilled corn on the cob: Soak corn in the husks for 15-20 minutes. Place on grill for 20-25 minutes. Let cool, remove husks and enjoy! • Grilled pineapple: Slice pineapple and place on hot grill. Grill each side for 3-5 minutes or until lightly charred. The pineapple will be irresistibly sweet! • Grilled artichokes: Halve six baby artichokes, brush with olive oil. Grill cutside-down 6 minutes. Turn, sprinkle with minced garlic, rosemary and thyme. Grill 4 minutes more. Grilled peaches and nectarines: Split fruit in half and remove pit. Grill each side for 3-5 minutes. Top with a small scoop of yogurt or honey and cinnamon for a light dessert! • Grilled sweet potatoes: Peel and thinly slice potatoes. Place in bowl and toss with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on grill for 5 minutes each side. ShopRite, 110 Albany Turnpike in The Shoppes at Farmington Valley. For more recipe ideas and summer meal suggestions, visit Kristin Ludwig at the ShopRite of Canton, call 860-693-3666, or see KNutritionPlus.com. See ad on page 35. 28
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VEGGIE NATION REVOLUTION by Judith Fertig
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n 1776, the stirring phrase in the U.S. Declaration of Independence—life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness— became a rallying cry for American colonists seeking these inalienable rights of self-government. In 2015, those seeking a new way of eating for personal wellness, a more vibrant local economy and a healthier environment are fomenting their own kind of rebellion. “You have to make a conscious decision to change for your own well-being, that of your family and your country,” according to former President Bill Clinton. In early 2010, suffering from heart disease, Clinton chose to radically change his meat-lover’s diet to a more plant-based focus. “I wanted to live to be a grandfather, so I decided to pick the diet that I thought would maximize my chances of long-term survival,” he says. Clinton is part of a growing leadership group that espouses a more vegetarian approach to eating, including a federally appointed panel of nutritionists. For the first time since its formation in 1983, the federal Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee this year elected to factor environmental sustainability into its recommendations, noting that a diet lower in animal-based foods is not only healthier,
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but has less of an environmental impact. The impetus toward plant-based foods is also stronger than in their last report in 2010.
Exciting Developments
A bold pioneer in the charge for plantbased eating is PlantPure Nation, a grassroots organization founded by Dr. T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D., the author of the bestselling The China Study, a book that helped persuade Clinton to make his own dietary change. Today, his son, Nelson Campbell, is at the forefront of this food revolution, most recently producing the independent documentary film PlantPure Nation, set to debut nationwide on July 4. Those enticed by the delicious concept of better health for themselves and the planet can also turn to The PlantPure Nation Cookbook, with more than 150 plant-based recipes by Kim Campbell, Nelson’s wife, whom he names “the chef in the family.” “No issue is bigger than the one of plant-based nutrition,” says Nelson. “It’s at the root of our healthcare crisis, affecting the lives of millions of Americans, the vitality of our economy and the solvency of our government. The food we eat has enormous effects on climate, water and soil resources.
image courtesy of PlantPureNation.com
consciouseating
Our food choices also affect the way in which food is produced and distributed in this country, equitably or not.” Historically, political revolutions tend to be violently adversarial, but a food revolution can take a more nurturing and inclusive course. “The first step people can take is to change their own diet,” Nelson says. “The next step is to help others do the same. The third is to get involved in the movement.”
New Fourth of July Barbecue
A fun way to help ourselves and our friends and family consider making dietary changes is hosting a plant-based Fourth of July get-together. Kim’s recipes for a smoky “barbecue” sandwich, creamy potato salad and a zesty, colorful bean dish celebrate traditional picnic foods with a twist. They’re also perfect for potluck-style entertaining. “We have often branded this idea of plant-based nutrition as such and such a ‘diet’, and then built these brands around personalities. But in order to make this a more mainstream idea, we need to frame it differently. This concept of plant-based nutrition is a fact of nature; a simple idea that’s accessible to all,” says Nelson. In a 2012 Gallup poll, just 5 percent of U.S. adults identified themselves as vegetarians, plus 2 percent as vegans. It’s a start, Nelson contends, and there are other promising signs. “The local-food movement is blossoming, with farmers’ markets springing up all over the United States,” proclaims the National Geographic special publication The Future of Food (Food. NationalGeographic.com). The number has increased dramatically in the past five years. The editors point to the demand for fresh produce and a desire to invest in local economies as driving this growth. “I love the idea of a movement involving millions of people fixing a problem that industry and government have largely caused,” says Nelson. “Our success may show a new way forward for solving other pressing social problems.” Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAnd Lifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.
PlantPure Nation Recipes BBQ Jackfruit
Yields: 4 to 6 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 5 to 7 hours Green jackfruit, a native plant of Asia, is often termed the vegetarian’s meat. The hardest part of this recipe is finding canned green jackfruit (available in most Asian markets). Although fresh green jackfruit is occasionally available, it’s messy, sticky and difficult to cut. Two 20-oz cans green jackfruit in water, drained 1½ cups barbecue sauce 1 onion, diced 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced (medium pieces)
Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker at medium heat for 4 to 5 hours. Jackfruit will soften, begin to fall apart and take on the consistency of pulled pork. Use a fork to pull apart the fruit and stir thoroughly. Turn the slow cooker to low heat and cook for another 1 to 2 hours.
This traditional potato salad has the perfect blend of celery, onions and seasonings.
Rinse the cooked potatoes in a colander with cold water until they are room temperature. Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining ingredients to the potatoes and gently stir thoroughly.
Tofu-Cashew Mayonnaise
Kim’s hints: 4 Customize this recipe with a favorite barbecue sauce that has no added oils and a low sodium content. 4 This recipe gets better the longer it’s cooked. Leftovers are good. 4 Serve the barbecue on a whole-grain bun and top with coleslaw.
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes
Cut the potatoes into half- to one-inch chunks. Place potato pieces in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and boil 5 to 10 minutes; then turn down the heat to medium and cook until tender.
Rinse the green jackfruit thoroughly.
Creamy Potato Salad
2½ pounds red potatoes, unpeeled 4 organic celery stalks, thinly sliced ½ red onion, cut in half again and julienned 6 green onions, sliced ½ cup tofu cashew mayonnaise 4 tsp apple cider vinegar 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp agave nectar ½ tsp sea salt ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup raw cashews, soaked in water at least 2 to 3 hours, then dried 7 oz firm tofu ½ tsp sea salt ½ tsp tahini 4 tsp lemon juice 1½ tsp white vinegar 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 2½ tsp agave nectar 2 Tbsp water ¼ tsp xanthan gum (in grocery baking aisle)
Place all ingredients in a high-powered blender. Blend until smooth and shiny. The key is to soak the cashews first.
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greenliving
Thai Tofu Wraps Yields: 6 wraps Prep time: 15 minutes
The tofu filling for these wraps is full of Thai flavors, with the perfect combination of peanuts, lime and cilantro.
FOOD GLEANING Harvesting Leftovers Feeds the Hungry
1 14-oz block extra-firm tofu ¼ cup natural peanut butter (100 percent peanuts) 1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce 1½ Tbsp lime juice ¼ tsp garlic powder 2 tsp Sriracha hot sauce 1 /3 cup small diced red bell pepper ¼ cup sliced green onion ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro 6 whole-wheat tortilla wraps 2 cups sprouts
by Avery Mack
Drain the tofu and gently press between layers of paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder and Sriracha. Add the tofu, bell pepper, green onion and cilantro and stir with a fork until well mixed and the tofu is crumbly. Place a portion of the tofu mixture in the center of a whole-wheat tortilla wrap, top with sprouts or favorite veggies and roll up the tortilla. Kim’s hint: 4 The Thai tofu filling can also be served in a sandwich (e.g., on toasted whole-wheat bread with fresh basil). Source for all recipes: The PlantPure Nation Cookbook, by Kim Campbell.
Good health is not something we can buy. However, it can be an extremely valuable savings account. ~Anne Wilson Schaef 30
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mericans annually discard more food than plastic—35 million tons in 2012—an amount that’s tripled since 1960, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Most of the waste is fruits and vegetables, seafood, grains, meat and milk. Since waste starts in the fields before it compounds via restaurants, grocers and families, the easiest starting point to reverse this trend is with farmers. “Farming’s a high-risk business. Farmers can’t predict weather, sales or equipment problems, so extra is grown,” explains Laurie Caldwell, executive director of Boston Area Gleaners,
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in Waltham, Massachusetts. “Up to 20 percent of U.S.-grown food isn’t harvested. Gleaners save what’s left behind for hungry people in need.”
Everyone Benefits
“Income disparity, economic vulnerability and lack of knowledge leads to unhealthy choices,” adds Caldwell. “The negative consequences become a community burden.” Countering the problem, “We’ve seen a shift in priorities, with food pantries offering fresh, quality food and educating both staff and recipients,” she reports. In 2014, Boston Area Gleaners harvested 34
farms, contributing about farming from YouTube videos, ture perfect. “FarmMore than 50 million 177,000 pounds of computer searches and other farmers. ers get a tax benefit Americans, including primarily vegetables The first crop on five acres yielded and people get fresh encompassing 60 100,000 pounds of sweet potatoes; food,” says Bruce 17 million children, varieties. Brown gave it all away. With 1,000 Oland, the Triangle experience hunger or Area coordinator California’s acres to farm, he’s set to tackle hunger fruit is abundant big time. in North Carolina. the risk of hunger because of the state’s It doesn’t require a big time “Farmers let us know every day. year-round growcommitment to help feed the hungry. when they’ll harvest ing season. Until Backyard gardeners can start by a crop and we have the 1960s and the TheHungerSite. planting an extra row (Tinyurl.com/ a few days to glean advent of Silicon PlantRowForHungry). Since its incepwhat’s left before GreaterGood.com Valley, this was the tion in 1995, the Plant a Row program they replant. We pick world’s largest fruithas collectively turned 20 million anything edible— producing region. pounds of produce into 80 million kale, lettuce, tomatoes, cantaloupe Some of its current apple trees date meals. and lots of sweet potatoes.” In a single back to the Gold Rush days. “We glean Offer to pick a neighbor’s excess harvested field, volunteers have gleaned backyards and orchards here,” says produce or herbs, and then check with seven tons of sweet potatoes. Craig Diserens, executive director of others nearby. Get the kids involved. The society’s gleaning and feeding Village Harvest, in San Jose. “Apples, Volunteer at or make a donation to a ministry has regional offices in Alapears, cherries, peaches, plums and soup kitchen. Gather a group of friends, bama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Misapricots, plus citrus fruits—it’s ladderfamily, members of an organization sissippi, North Carolina, South Caroless picking, to protect both volunteers or congregation to glean or repackage lina, Tennessee and Virginia. Additional and trees.” Telescoping tools pluck outproduce one day a month. If a local areas are located in Illinois, Indiana, of-reach fruit. The nonprofit gleans 15 food pantry can’t accept perishables, Nebraska, Ohio and Pennsylvania to 20 times a month via volunteers ages (see EndHunger.org). leverage social media to spread the 5 to 90. In 2013, its Harvesting for the word about which day free food will be Jason Brown, a former St. Louis Hungry program distributed 245,000 available at a church or school. EveryRams’ center with a five-year, $37 pounds of fruit. one can help. No one should go to bed million contract, traded his cleats for a The Feeding America West Michihungry. tractor. Now in Louisburg, North Carogan food bank, headquartered in Comlina, he calls First Fruits Farm home and stock, provides more than produce, Connect with freelance writer Avery plans to donate the first fruits of every with donations from manufacturers, Mack at AveryMack@mindspring.com. harvest to food pantries. He learned wholesalers, restaurants and stores adding meat, dairy, frozen foods and bread. Volunteers repackage donations into usable sizes; do clerical work; pick produce; and sort, pack, store and deliver food. While most of the nonprofit’s Avoid Common Mistakes Save Time and Money yield is distributed through 1,100 food Starting a new business is Help from an experienced pantries, shelters and soup kitchens, one of the most exciting business professional can things you will do in your save you so much and ensure many can’t store perishables. Working life. But new business your business starts well. with churches, schools and community owners learn that there Get support for budgeting, centers, the organization’s mobile units are many mistakes that business plan, bookkeeping deliver fresh food directly to recipients, are made along the way. start and more. Even learn Matt Connell, Ed.D., MBA often the same day it is donated. Each answers to important questions Expert Help for Your you may not have considered. unit can carry food for 100 to 200 Business families. This local Feeding America Call 860-269-6544 Today! outreach group serves an estimated Schedule Your New Business Start-up Consultation 492,000 people each year. $150 for Expert Business Advice and The Society of St. Andrew often Create Your Customized Start-up Checklist. rescues the “ugly” produce—potatoes not well-shaped for chips, oversized 34 Jerome Ave., Suite 304 • Bloomfield CT, 06107 peaches, too-long green beans, too-ripe Info@StrategicImprovementAssociates.com • StrategicImprovementAssociates.com strawberries and apples that aren’t pic-
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July 2015
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wisewords
Jeffrey Smith Warns Against GMOs by Linda Sechrist
J
effrey Smith is the founder and executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, author of Seeds of Deception and director of the documentary Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives. Smith and his organization’s Campaign for Healthier Eating in America are spearheading consumer rejection of genetically modified foods (GM/GMO) in order to force them off the market.
What basics should everyone know about GMOs? Genetic engineering is different from traditional crossbreeding. In engineering six major GMO crops—soy, corn, cotton, canola, sugar beets and alfalfa—a gene
from a virus or bacteria was forced into the DNA of the plants. Derivatives such as soy lecithin, soy protein, high-fructose corn syrup and sugar (unless labeled as cane sugar) are in the vast majority of processed foods.
How did GMO foods invade grocery shelves? Many U.S. consumers mistakenly believe that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves GMO crops only after careful study. Instead, the agency claimed it wasn’t aware of any significant difference from other food crops and declared safety testing unnecessary. In reality, according to FDA documents later made public in a lawsuit, the consensus among FDA scientists was
that GMOs were different and dangerous and needed rigorous, long-term testing to prevent allergies, toxins, new diseases and nutritional problems. When the George W. Bush administration ordered the agency to promote biotechnology as a way to increase U.S. food exports, the FDA responded by creating a new position of Deputy Commissioner of Policy for Michael R. Taylor, a former Monsanto attorney. He later became a Monsanto vice president and is now back at the FDA as the U.S. food safety czar.
Why is Roundup, Monsanto’s weed killer for GMO crops, so toxic? Monsanto portrays Roundup as a benevolent herbicide. This is a lie. Glyphosate, its active patented ingredient, alters biochemical pathways in the body. Scientists such as Anthony Samsel and Stephanie Seneff have linked glyphosate to numerous diseases and disorders, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, gluten sensitivity, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, depression, autism and reproductive disorders. In March, the World Health Organization declared it a probable carcinogen.
How can we avoid unlabeled GMO foods? Eat organic foods, which are not allowed to contain GM ingredients, or products that are labeled non-GMO, or those that
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don’t contain derivatives of the current nine GMO food crops, which now include some zucchini, yellow squash and papaya grown in Hawaii or China. Any packaged grocery product not labeled “Non-GMO” or “Organic” is likely to contain at least one GMO; this includes meat and dairy products, from animals that have eaten GM feed. NonGMOShoppingGuide.com is a reliable resource that lists about 30,000 non-GMO products. A non-GMO diet is recommended by thousands of doctors, as well as the American Academy of Environmental Medicine.
inspiration
What more can “we the people” do to eradicate GMOs? We are in control, not government agencies. I believe that promoting a stronger message—that GMOs are dangerous and should be avoided—would better serve consumers and the food-labeling movement. High-profile campaigns will continue educating consumers about the dangers of GMOs and the necessity of rejecting them in favor of healthier nonGMO choices, especially for children that are most at risk. The desired result is that food companies will feel the loss of profits and remove GMOs as a liability. The tipping point in the U.S. is almost here. In 2013, the president of Whole Foods announced that when a product becomes verified as non-GMO, sales leap by 15 to 30 percent. Thousands of natural product brands were immediately enrolled for verification. Now conventional brands such as Post Foods’ Grape Nuts, Target’s Simply Balanced brand, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and Chipotle’s restaurant menu are GMO-free. General Mills stopped using GMO beet sugar in Cheerios. When the rest of the food industry sees these nonGMO-labeled products increase in sales in conventional supermarkets, they will be forced to eliminate GMOs as well, to protect their market share. Visit ResponsibleTechnology.org and GeneticRouletteMovie.com to educate everyone about the dangers of GMOs. Connect with writer Linda Sechrist at ItsAllAboutWe.com.
Songs of Freedom We All Long for Liberty by Enrique Smeke
T
he yearning for freedom is like a seed that dwells deep in our hearts—freedom from scarcity, from conflicting relationships, from addictions, from health issues. This yearning for freedom binds the centuries. In the Americas, this clamor can be heard in the words of the national anthems of many countries. The Colombian national anthem mentions the “invisible light of sublime freedom.” The Uruguayan anthem says, “Freedom, that clamor that saved our country.” The Mexican anthem asks that “the echoes resound with voices of unity and freedom.” The Argentine anthem exclaims, “Listen, mortals, to the sacred cry: Freedom,” and the American anthem reminds us that this is “the land of the free.” Mary Baker Eddy proclaims in her book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, “Citizens of the world, accept the ‘glorious liberty of the children of
God,’ and be free!” Let the seed in your heart sprout. Water it with gratitude. Accept the liberty to be free as your God-given nature. Yearn to see each other as God’s child, to feel God’s ever-present love and to grow freer and freer from all limitations—and watch as the seed’s tender shoots manifest themselves in improved health, progress and joy in families, friends and the world. Let freedom always be included in your anthem song. From a free podcast series titled Your Daily Lift. Songs of Freedom is by international speaker Enrique Smeke, a practitioner and teacher of Christian Science healing from Newburyport, MA, and Miami, FL, raised in Argentina. Used with permission of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston (ChristianScience.com/dailylift).
natural awakenings
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Parks maintained by a range of entities are jewels to be discovered, cherished and preserved.
healthykids
ADVENTURES IN NATURE Families Create Memories at Nearby Parks by Harriet Shugarman
H
ere’s how to entertain the kids, keep them healthy and get them outdoors this summer.
Where to Go
Traveling to iconic natural wonders like the Blue Ridge Mountains, Niagara Falls or the Grand Canyon isn’t the only awe-inspiring way to captivate children’s attention and help them contemplate nature’s beauties. As Brian Ettling, a seasonal ranger at Crater Lake National Park, in Oregon, likes to remind park visitors, “Find your own sacred place and keep going there; it could be a wooded area by your house or a county, state or local park.” Visits to in-state parks are easy to fit into a family’s summer plans and can generate lifelong treasured family traditions. Participating in programs or other exploratory adventures stimulate 34
Hartford County Edition
creative and critical thinking, challenge outdoor and athletic skills and can even teach life lessons. July is America’s Parks and Recreation Month, first designated by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) in 1985. NRPA makes it easy to tap into what’s happening in local parks or wherever family members may be traveling. Events around the country can be found by visiting nrpa. org/july.
What to Do
Biologist Rachel Carson, the mother of the modern-day environmental movement, wrote, “If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement and mystery of the world we live in.” In this addictive
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digital age, it can sometimes be challenging to find exciting ways to help children connect with nature. Jessica Culverhouse, NRPA senior manager and a volunteer master naturalist, offers ways to channel digital habits. “Free apps like the electronic field guide Leafsnap and mobile games like Agents of Nature can be great tools to engage kids with the outdoors with their technology still in hand,” she says. Another idea is a simple nature scavenger hunt using a smartphone camera. If weekend camping is of interest, in-state parks are convenient and also easy on the budget. The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) makes the first step easy with tips and suggested activities through their Great American Campout (nwf.org/great-americancampout.aspx). This summer-long celebration of camping encourages everyone to take the pledge to camp, which helps fuel the conversation and initial planning, whether camping in a backyard or local, state or national park. Last year, the Carlson family took the pledge and first camped out in Big Basin State Park, only 20 miles from their home in Santa Cruz, California. “It was an incredible weekend none of us will ever forget; a world away, but right in our backyard!” they cheer. Garden for Wildlife, another popular NWF program, connects people with their local habitats. Girl Scout butterfly heroes in Wyckoff, New Jersey, learned how. “Our troop was looking for a way to provide a community service for their bronze award project,” says Wendy Rosica, co-leader of Troop 94686. “We chose to create a Monarch Way Station garden in a new community park in our neighborhood. Specifically designed as a space for the butterflies to breed and eat during their annual migrations, it’s not only a
beautiful addition to the park, but also a positive way for the Girl Scouts to help area residents learn more about the plight of Monarchs and other pollinators.” National Audubon Society nature centers are an accessible local resource (Audubon.org/audubon-near-you). Families learn more about native birds and Audubon hiking trails, and naturalist presentations enhance explorations of the region’s habitats. Local native plant and animal species are disappearing at alarming rates and need habitat stewardship by present and future generations (Climate.Audubon.org). Our in-state parks are wellsprings of life from which children and adults can draw throughout our lives, enabling us to discover the splendor and uniqueness of nature right in our own community and backyard. When we see and feel directly what’s at stake, we’ll fight harder and more consciously to protect and preserve it. As Carson eloquently observed in The Sense of Wonder, nature can help us all find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. Harriet Shugarman, of Ridgewood, New Jersey, chairs local and regional environmental committees and works with national, state and local organizations seeking pro-environmental legislation. Connect at ClimateMama.com.
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Hartford County Edition
P
eople are biking more than ever. Recreational bicycling ranked second to running as the favorite outdoor activity among both youths (6 to 24 years old) and adults (25-plus) in a recent Outdoor Industry Association study. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) further reports that from 2000 to 2012 the number of Americans biking to work rose from 488,000 to 786,000. This positive trend also means more crowded bike lanes and other pathways challenge the community infrastructure’s ability to keep up, raising safety concerns. Plus, we naturally want to avoid aches and pains while enjoying the myriad benefits of pedaling.
Find the Right Bike
“Having the right bike for one’s needs that’s properly fitted is crucial,” says Dan Moser, a founder and steering committee member of the BikeWalkLee community coalition and a traffic safety consultant in Fort Myers, Florida. “Use a local bike shop whose mechanics test and adjust the bikes they sell.” A bike mechanic can determine the proper seat height and ideal distance from the handlebars to the seat tube. Back, knee
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or hip pain may develop if a cyclist has to stretch their legs to get to the pedals, explains Tim Bustos, a bicycling consultant in Pensacola, Florida, and former bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for Davis, California, which earned platinum-level Bicycle Friendly Community status, along with Boulder, Colorado, and Portland, Oregon, from the League of American Bicyclists (LAB). On the other hand, “A biker doesn’t get proper leg extension if the seat is too low,” he says, possibly leading to leg muscle strains. “The legs should be almost, but not totally extended at the lowest point in the pedaling motion.”
Safety Alert
The latest NHTSA study charted 49,000 bicycle accidents in 2012, 1,000 more than the year before. Biking only in daylight and avoiding alcohol could improve those numbers because 48 percent of biker fatalities occur beginning at 4 p.m. and 37 percent involve a driver or bicyclist that has been drinking. Even well-marked bike lanes don’t guarantee safety, so caution is required. Some motorists are careless about entering bike lanes and don’t correctly stop at crosswalks or look behind before opening
car doors. David Takemoto-Weerts, a bicycle program coordinator at the University of California, Davis, member of the city’s Bike Transportation Advisory Committee and LAB-certified instructor, suggests keeping at least five feet from the sides of cars to avoid being hit. Cyclists are wise not to weave in and out of traffic, to signal turns and watch out for runners, walkers and pedestrians as they abide by normal traffic rules and flow. Takemoto-Weerts says that bikers sometimes overlook using the stop signal (left arm extended downward) to alert bikers behind them. Wearing a helmet should be a standard practice. The University of North Carolina’s Highway Safety Research Center, in Chapel Hill, reports that wearing a helmet reduces the overall risk of head injuries by 85 percent. “Cyclists are part of traffic, whether operating on a road, pathway or a combination,” says Moser. “Being acutely aware of one’s surroundings and minimizing distractions, following the rules of the road and pathway, and being prepared to deal with others’ mistakes are all vital.”
Fitness Factors
Dr. Kim Martin, a certified functional medicine practitioner and chiropractor with North Shore Health Solutions, in
Northbrook, Illinois, says that recreational bikers have visited her for knee, hip and neck soreness or strains. In addition to ensuring they’re employing proper leg extension, she advises, “Pedal a little faster in a lower gear; ideally, 75 to 90 revolutions per minute, which is easier on the knees and lessens muscle fatigue than traveling slower in a higher gear.” She explains that the correct seat height facilitates proper alignment of hips and a full rotation; if not, energy is forced outward, stressing the hips. Martin adds that the neck might experience strain from tilting the head up for long periods. “This can occur by wearing a helmet that is too low or forward in the front or poor-fitting eyewear that inches forward down the nose.” Right after a long ride, Martin suggests that riders gently bend downward over their crossed legs a few times, alternately switching legs, and also slowly bending the head up and down, sideways and then in a circular motion for a couple of minutes. “Overall,” she says, “the key is to have fun.” Freelance writer and editor Randy Kambic, in Estero, FL, is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.
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f a community has seen a growth in cycling accidents, has few safety education programs in place or roadway infrastructure isn’t biker-friendly, individuals can take action. Dan Moser, a Southwest Florida transportation safety consultant, suggests forming alliances with non-bikers to approach civic leaders: “Consider including pedestrian accommodations and frame the issue as one of everyone having access to a safe environment, including bike and foot travelers, and the value of recreation and exercise to the community.” Use the criteria found at Tinyurl. com/CommunityBikeabilityChecklist to evaluate the quality of the local biking environment. The League of American Bicyclists’ Bicycle Friendly America program invites communities to apply for technical as-
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sistance and receive customized feedback and advice on improving local conditions at BikeLeague.org/bfa. Bikes Belong, a consortium of suppliers and retailers, plus individuals and club members, supports the creation of protected bike lanes and provides community grants and supportive resources at PeopleForBikes.org. Many state highway authorities, police and park and recreation departments conduct bike rules and safety programs for the public. Check for local resources online.
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naturalpet
Do a trial run with a sitter and pet before a vacation to ensure it’s a good match. Make note of any pet quirks.
PURR-FECT PET SITTERS
Make Sure Your Pet Enjoys Your Vacation, Too by Sandra Murphy
V
acations bring rest and less stress, a change of pace and for some, a break from caring for the family pet, made possible by a growing number of professional pet sitters. “I have more peace of mind with a pet sitter rather than a friend. Even if they’ve already had a long day, sitters still properly take care of the pets,” says Christina Pierce, a federal examiner of financial institutions for consumer protection in Little Rock, Arkansas. “Many professional pet sitters are trained to respond to potential health and other issues. Especially with small animals, early recognition of a problem is key.” Pierce used to have chinchillas, and now has a cat she rescued and relocated from Dallas, Texas, plus two adopted former foster rabbits. “A sitter may be excellent, but not know your breed,” advises Rae Bailey, a retiree in Georgetown, Texas, who regularly uses sitters for her Scottie when she travels. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” She notes that dogs 38
Hartford County Edition
are particularly good judges of character, so if one doesn’t like the sitter, simply try another. Pet sitting services use a contract to outline rates, what the sitter will do, the number and duration of daily visits, start and end dates and how the house key is returned when the job is complete. Regular clients may have the sitter keep the key handy. Professional sitters are bonded, insured and background-checked, have experience with a variety of species and breeds, are fairly flexible and love animals. A pre-visit will introduce pets and sitter to each other and address any relationship concerns and individual needs, such as medications. “I had a diabetic Westie, a big consideration,” says Diane Meadows, a retired paralegal in San Antonio, Texas. “It was huge for me to hand over the keys and my trust, but our sitter was dependable and knowledgeable.” During one visit, her sitter also alerted Meadows to a possible
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propane gas leak. At the outset, have the sitter meet all the family pets to ensure mutual comfort. Show the sitter where the leash, toys, treats, food and water dishes are kept, supplies for cleanups, the family vet’s location, hours, office and emergency phone numbers and instructions for any security alarm system. Codes can be personalized and deactivated when no longer needed. Sometimes clients request extra services such as collecting the mail and newspapers, watering indoor plants and leaving lights on. Both young and older dogs need three visits a day to avoid household accidents. Cats are usually fine with one. “Cats like to be pampered. A friendly sitter provides the care she’s used to, in familiar surroundings,” says Anne Moss, whose educational website TheCatSite.com originates near Tel Aviv, Israel. “Kitty’s more relaxed and receives a higher level of care than at a boarding facility,” she notes. A pet sitting service offers the added benefit of backups in case the assigned sitter is sick or delayed. In Huntley, Illinois, Diane Muchow, an adjunct instructor at Computer Systems Institute, explains why she prefers a pet sitting service for her black Labrador mix. “Our first sitter was a onewoman business. One day, she forgot to crate the dogs when she left, and we came home to find the evidence of an accident on our new carpet throughout the house,” Muchow says. “We switched to a professional service.” She sees the primary advantage of professional help as dependability and flexibility. “The service has a website to order the shifts we need, which are confirmed by email,” she notes. “It’s handy when my husband travels and I work.” A kennel isn’t for all dogs, says Scott Mell, an area manager for JoAnn Fabrics in Affton, Missouri. He recalls his Bernese mountain dog’s first and only trip to the local kennel. Upon arrival, she climbed on top of the car rather than go inside. “She
was adamant,” he says. “I hired a sitter the next day. She loved her sitter’s visits.” Whether pets need special attention, daily walks, a midday backyard break or multiple visits while the family vacations, a pet sitter can provide excellent care. Many owners like to receive daily text message updates and may even e-retrieve bonus selfies of their happy pets from home.
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What types of pets do you care for? Are there any categories of pets you would prefer not to care for?
From hamsters to horses, furry, feathered and finned, big or small, we pet sit for them all! And we groom any breed, any size, dog...cats too!
What types of services do you offer?
We come to you. Pet sitting, cat sitting, dog walking in your home. Mobile grooming in our fully equipped groom salon on wheels.
What recommendations can you offer to pet owners to prepare themselves and their pet for the separation?
Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter to come to your home is in itself the best preparation for separation. There is no place like home and your pet is happiest there.
What things are important for a pet owner to consider when searching for a pet sitter/walker? What is your background / Proof of bonding, insurance, criminal experience and do you hold background and reference checks, any professional pet sitting / Pet CPR and First Aid trained, experiwalking certifications? ence, length of time in business, online reviews, professional organization memberships. For grooming, a licensed, certified, experienced, patient, gentle groomer, with references and a sanitary mobile groom van. We use all natural groom products!
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Starting July 11 7am-12pm
Register: 860-218-2838
Shana, your community Registered Dietitian, will have cooking demonstrations and recipes to take home! Register for the CSA! Support your local CT farmers and save money!
markyourcalendar OPEN HOUSE - CYNDI ROBERTS YOGA
Shoprite 46 Kane St, West Hartford
JULY 4 & 5 9-10am
Join Heather for a free class in celebration of our new Canton location! Sanctuary Power Yoga 163 Albany Tpke, Ste 400, Canton
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WEDNESDAYS 12-1pm
Meet instructor Cyndi Roberts and tour her private Hartford yoga studio. Learn about therapeutic, gentle, and prenatal yoga customized to your individual needs. Free 1477 Park St, Ste 14, Hartford RSVP Required: 860-517-9322 YogaWithCR.com
markyourcalendar ADDICTION EDUCATION
CHAKRA BALANCING WITH YOGA AND ESSENTIAL OILS FRIDAY, JULY 10
Drop-In Hour
6-7:15pm
WEDNESDAY JULY 1 & AUGUST 5
Combine carefully selected restorative yoga postures and therapeutic grade essential oils that will leave you feeling refreshed, empowered and rejuvenated.
7-8pm
A time for you to stop by, get to know us, and ask your questions about how to help those you love.
THURSDAY, JULY 2 $5 Healthy Dinner Demonstration & Recipe Sampling! – 4-6pm. Shana, your community Registered Dietitian at ShopRite of West Hartford, will be showing you how easy it is to create balanced healthy meals on a budget. 46 Kane St, West Hartford. Shana.Griffin@wakefern.com.
Hartford County Edition
GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION
Shana.Griffin@wakefern.com
Explore One-On-One Yoga Sessions
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Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville, CT 860-693-9642 www.YogaCenterCollinsville.com/supyoga
FREE WELLNESS CLASS FIRST THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH
$49/
www.NAHRT.com
FREE Cultivating Change Counseling Services, LLC 392B Merrow Rd, Tolland 860-458-2020
$19 Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville Registration Required: 860-693-YOGA (9642) YogaCenterCollinsville.com
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INTRODUCTION TO ESSENTIAL OILS
HUMAN RELATIONS PROGRAM
YOGA FOR GARDENING
SATURDAY, JULY 11
6-7:30pm
FRIDAY, JULY 10 7:30-8:30pm
What’s the buzz around essential oils? From relaxation to invigoration, from detoxification to sanitization, there are many rolls for essential oils in your daily life. Free Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville Registration Required: 860-693-YOGA (9642) YogaCenterCollinsville.com
markyourcalendar PERFORMANCE BY JAY MANKITA “Eat Like A Rainbow”
FRIDAY, JULY 10 8pm
Enjoy Jay’s unique style of guitar playing provides a rich rhythmic ground for his dynamic and original melodies and lyrics. Donation The Center for Progressive Therapies 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester 860-649-9600 or C4PT.org
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WEDNESDAY JULY 15 & AUGUST 5
Informational Session 9am-4pm
Learn about a program that can provide you with an unparalleled understanding of human dynamics by offering a unique and in-depth understanding of the systems in the body. Free Hartford Family Institute 17 South Highland Street West Hartford, CT 06119
SATURDAY, JULY 11 (Rain Date July 18) 9-10:30am
The 60-minute yoga class will be led by yoga instructor, Justine Fuller. All proceeds will benefit OM for Life, a program of CT Challenge that helps improve life for cancer survivors and patients through the gentle exercise, breath, and relaxation afforded by yoga. $10/Suggested donation Glastonbury Riverfront Community Lawn Sponsored by Fuller Yoga, Pilates, & Massage and CT Challenge 860-430-9642 FullerYoga.com
$17.10/Per session by 7/2 $19/Per session after Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville Registration Required: 860-693-YOGA (9642) YogaCenterCollinsville.com
Register: 860-236-6009
FRIDAY, JULY 10 Healthy Summer Planning & Free Recipe Demonstration – 3-5pm. Shana, your community Registered Dietitian will be in the culinary kitchen cooking up a healthy recipe for you to sample. Weekly recipe demonstrations, info and recipes. ShopRite of West Hartford 46 Kane Street West Hartford. Shana.Griffin@wakefern.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 11 Get Your Yoga Groove On! – 9-10:30am. Outdoor CT Yoga Fest at Glastonbury Riverfront Community Lawn. The 60-minute yoga class will be led by yoga instructor, Justine Fuller. Rain date 7/18. $10/suggested donation, all proceeds will benefit OM for Life, a program of CT Challenge that helps improve life for cancer survivors and patients through the gentle exercise, breath, and relaxation afforded by yoga. CT Yoga Fest is sponsored by Fuller Yoga, Pilates, and Massage, 2450 Main St, Glastonbury and CT Challenge. For more info: 860-430-9642, FullerYoga.com.
markyourcalendar GENTLE YOGA SERIES 6-Week Series Begins
THURSDAY, JULY 16 7:30-8:45pm
A series for times of high stress or low energy. Great for beginners, seniors, and experienced students - anyone seeking a gentle and meditative practice. $79/+ materials Vital Life Center 100 W Main St, Plainville 860-479-0466
TUESDAY, JULY 14
GET YOUR YOGA GROOVE ON! Outdoor CT Yoga Fest
Explore poses and stretches to help the body recover from the strain of gardening, and increase mobility and balance to make gardening more comfortable.
markyourcalendar A NIGHT OF HEALING WEDNESDAYS JULY 15, 29 & AUGUST 12 6:30-9pm
The evening will begin with Drumming & Chanting. Then hands on healing, Reiki, IMT, Sound Therapy, all modalities & Beginners are always welcome. $10/ Spirit of the Lotus (BBM Bldg.) 837 Boston Turnpike (RT 44), Bolton RSVP: 860-709-3903 www.SpiritOfTheLotus.org
Information Sessions – 6-7:30pm. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Call: 203-874-4252.
THURSDAY, JULY 16 Free Nutrition Questions & Answers with the Dietitian – 2-6pm. Shana, Registered Dietitian at ShopRite of West Hartford wants to meet you. For “Get to Know Your Customers” Day, Shana will be available for Q&A. To schedule a free consultation: Shana.Griffin@wakefern.com. Information Sessions – 5-6:30pm. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Call: 203-874-4252. Everyone Outside! Enhance Your Spirit and Health – 7-8:30pm. Learn how being active outdoors enhances your health and energy. Sponsor: Alliance for Holistic Living; Presenter: Dori Garcia, MS, Fitness Trainer and Vitality Coach. Free, nonperishable food donation encouraged. Ravenwood Holistic Center, 199 W Center St, Manchester. 860-871-5467.
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4-HOUR INTRODUCTORY WORKSHOP
Ms. Marci, Jim Hooper & Dayne Laskey
PERFORMANCE BY
FREE QIGONG CLASS
SATURDAY, JULY 18
8pm
9AM - 12PM
Professional Training Program in In-Depth Body Psychotherapy & Masters in Pastoral Counseling Program Training and Education for those who want to become or already are Psychotherapists, Pastoral Counselors, Energy Healers, Body Workers and Health Professionals.
FRIDAY, JULY 24 Singing, guitars, keyboard player/harmonica and many instruments blended into meaningful music. Donation The Center for Progressive Therapies 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester 860-649-9600 or C4PT.org
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Free Hartford Family Institute 17 South Highland Street West Hartford, CT 06119
COLLINSVILLE HOT
Water Fire on the Farmington River
Register: 860-236-6009
SATURDAY, JULY 25 (RAIN DATE JULY 26) 9am-10pm
markyourcalendar YOGA BASICS SERIES
Begin with an outdoor community yoga class and end with a spectacular Water Fire event on the Farmington River. Many family fun activities in between. Collinsville and the Farmington River and Rail Trail
6-Week Series Begins
For more information visit Facebook.com/CollinsvilleHot
TUESDAY, JULY 21 7:30-8:45pm
This series is perfect for newcomers because it is an introduction to the building blocks of yoga, emphasizing basic postures, breathing techniques and relaxation skills. $79/+ materials
markyourcalendar OUTDOOR COMMUNITY YOGA Collinsville Hot Event
SATURDAY, JULY 25 (Rain Date July 26) 9am-10pm
Vital Life Center 100 W Main St, Plainville 860-479-0466
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The historic village of Collinsville, located on the Farmington River, will convert the corner of Main St and Front St to an outdoor yoga studio. All levels welcome! Free Collinsville, CT
REFLEXOLOGY WORKSHOP
For more info: Facebook.com/CollinsvilleHot
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22
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With Colleen Ellen Duman, Lmt, Reflexologist 6:30-8pm Do you have headaches? Backaches? Any pain or discomfort? Help yourself and family get quick relief with foot reflexology. Take home hands-on tools to use for a lifetime. $15/Refreshments and snacks provided Oneida Holistic Health Center 16 West Main St, Marlborough Pre-registration required: 860-467-6518
STANDUP PADDLE BOARD YOGA on the gentle, peaceful Upper Mill Pond of the Farmington River
SATURDAY, JULY 25 11am-12:30pm 4-5:30pm
Enjoy this unique experience bringing together both yoga and nature on a safe, floating yoga mat. SUP Yoga is easier than you think and even beginners can enjoy the special bliss. $49/ Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville, CT 860-693-9642 www.YogaCenterCollinsville.com/supyoga
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Hartford County Edition
www.NAHRT.com
SATURDAY, JULY 25 1-2pm
Learn simple exercises to calm your body and energize your mind with deep breathing and slow, flowing movements of these ancient Chinese healing exercises. No Cost Integrative Wellness & Physical Therapy 34 Jerome Avenue, Suite 305 Bloomfield, CT 06002 860-519-1916 www.IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com
SATURDAY, JULY 25 Information Sessions: Call-in –10:30-11:30am. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Call-in number: 712-432-1690, Access Code #583832.
markyourcalendar PRENATAL YOGA SUNDAYS JULY 26-AUGUST 16 10:45-11:45am Practice yoga in a loving community of expectant mothers. Connect with your baby, your body and your breath. No prior yoga experience is necessary. $60/Series, $18/Drop In Journey of Yoga 730 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury 860-680-1482, JourneyOfYoga.com
TUESDAY, JULY 28 Medicine Cabinet Makeover with Essential Oils – 5:30-6:30pm. Learn how pure essential oils can greatly enhance your physical and emotional health - naturally, cost-effectively, and without dangerous side effects. Free. TFC Health Foods, 230 Farmington Ave, Farmington. RSVP, Christine: 917-488-5788.
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FREE EVENT FOR KIDS!
MAKE THE MOST OF ESSENTIAL OILS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29 4-6pm Live right with ShopRite Kids Day event “Getting Kids in the Kitchen” with Shana Griffin, Registered Dietitian. ShopRite of West Hartford 46 Kane St, West Hartford To learn more about registering your child for a Culinary Class: Shana.Griffin@wakefern.com
markyourcalendar GETTING THE BODY I WANT, NATURALLY
In Your Yoga Practice
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 6-7:15pm Learn how to incorporate essential oils into your yoga practice! Includes sample oils to use in class and then take home. $19 Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville Registration Required: 860-693-YOGA (9642) YogaCenterCollinsville.com
Essential Oils and the Integrative Approach
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THURSDAY, JULY 30
FULLER YOGA 200HR
10:30-11:45am Get ready for a healthy summer with this free informative class! Learn how essential oils can help support areas including stress management, reducing toxic load, informed self-care, and nutritional balance. Free Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville Registration Required: 860-693-YOGA (9642) YogaCenterCollinsville.com
markyourcalendar ESSENTIAL OILS FOR PAIN AND MOOD MANAGEMENT THURSDAY, AUGUST 6 10:30-11:45am
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 7:30-8:30pm Help manage your pain in a natural way! Learn about using doTERRA’s certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils as complementary solutions to pain issues. Free Yoga Center of Collinsville 10 Front St, Collinsville Registration Required: 860-693-YOGA (9642) YogaCenterCollinsville.com
ongoing events sunday
Primary Yoga Teacher Training
SEPTEMBER 11, 2015 FEBRUARY 21 2016 10-20 hour weekends
Fridays 5:30-10pm, Saturdays 12:30-9:30pm, Sundays 12:30-8:30pm Comprehensive training for teaching multiple skill levels, emphasis on safe proper alignment, power, and longevity. Passionate and dedicated applicants preferred. Discounts on full payment, payment plans available
Yoga Hikes – Starting 8am. Guided hikes infused with the spirit and practice of yoga. Refresh your senses, restore connection to the natural world, and rejuvenate body, mind, and breath. $30-$40 (student discount available). Locations vary. Register: YogaWithSybil.com. Gentle Yoga for Strength – 9:15-10:30am. Build upper and lower body strength through accessible, gentle yoga poses. All levels. New students welcome. $18 or class pass/membership. Journey of Yoga, 730 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury. 860-680-1482. Restorative Yoga - All Levels – 9:30-10:45am. A luxurious class with passive postures done over props for a meditative practice allowing you to surrender layers of deeply held tension. Perfect for beginner and advanced yogis. $40/30 days, unlimited classes/new students. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642. Create Financial Freedom with Healthy Products – 4-5pm. Learn how to build a business and create financial freedom for you by distributing natural Aloe Vera nutritional supplements to help others be healthy. Free. Bristol (call for address). RSVP: 860-372-8171. Qigong - All Levels – 5:30-6:30pm. Deep breathing and flowing movements derived from ancient Chinese healing exercises for increased balance, flexibility, muscle and bone strength, immune function, decreased pain and stiffness. $17/drop-in. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642.
monday
FullerYoga.com
All Levels Yoga – 9:30 -10:45am. Learn to manage stress, decrease aches/pains, release emotional/ physical blocks. Class is personalized to your needs. Here is your chance to feel even better. $12-$15/ suggested donation, all welcome regardless of ability to pay. Universalist Church of West Hartford. 433 Fern St, West Hartford. SpadaWellness@gmail.com.
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Gentle + Restorative Yoga – 10:30-11:45am. Gently held postures for joint health and nurturing. Great for any experience level. $40/30 days, unlimited classes/new students. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642.
Fuller Yoga 2450 Main St, Glastonbury
TAI CHI INTRO WORKSHOP
ShopRite - Kristen’s Recipe of the Week – 3-6pm. Learn a healthy recipe and enjoy free samples. Each event will feature in-season produce. Free. ShopRite of Canton, 110 Albany Tpke, Canton. 860-693-3666.
with Master Wu
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 10am-4pm
Instruction from master Tai Chi instructor, Dr. Ming Wu, who will teach basic Tai Chi movements and explain the health benefits of each. $50/ before July 30 $60/ after Call 860-606-0578 or visit WuHealing.com
All-Levels Power Yoga – 6-7pm. Power vinyasa class in a heated room. Baptiste influenced, strong and challenging with an emphasis on compassion and mindfulness. Get in the flow-meditation in motion. $18/drop-in. Sanctuary Power Yoga, 163 Albany Tpke, Ste 400, Canton. 860-496-1500. Meditate Through the Madness – 6pm. Hosted by Torin Lee. Learn to manage the stress of life through mediation. $10. Oneida Holistic Health Center, 16 West Rd, Marlborough. Call to register: 860-467-6518.
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Tai Chi Class – 6-7pm. Practiced to achieve therapeutic benefits, as well as, to promote balance and to improve flexibility and overall strength. $15. Wu Healing Center, 45 S Main St, Ste 100, West Hartford. 800-990-9332. Vinyasa Yoga For Everyone – 7-8:15pm. Classic yoga postures in flowing sequence linked by breath. Learn breathing techniques that keep you invigorated and calm in your daily life. $40/30 days, unlimited classes/new students. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642. Zumba With Evi – 7:15-8:15pm. Latin inspired cardio-dance workout exercise. Fun and easy to follow. Simple moves to dance; music such as Meringue, Salsa, Bacchante, Reggaeton, Rumba and more. C4PT, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. $6, $40/10 classes. For more info: 860-690-4858.
tuesday
Chair Massage – Treat yourself to a relaxing break. You decide how long. $1/minute. Oneida Holistic Health Center, 16 West Rd, Marlborough. Walk-ins welcome or call for an appointment: 860-467-6518. Express Vinyasa Yoga – 6-7am. Touches on all the essentials of the core standing, balancing, and seated postures. Build strength, heat and focus moving through sun salutations linked with breath and clarity. Some yoga experience recommended. $40/30 days, unlimited classes/new students. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642. Feldenkrais® Awareness Through Movement – 12-1pm. Learn gentle yet powerful movements that create strength and flexibility without stretching or straining. $13/drop-in. Holistic Therapies Classroom, 15 S Elm Street, Wallingford. Contact Carol Meade: 203-415-8666. Lessons in the Alexander Technique – 2:15-6pm. The Alexander Technique improves awareness of the tension in your body and helps you release it, resulting in lighter movement and less stress and pain. $45/45-minute lesson. Song-a Day Music Center, 2809 Boston Tpke, Coventry. 860-742-6878. Emei Wujigong Qigong Group Practice – 6:307:30pm. Come and experience a qigong form for rebalancing and strengthening body, mind and spirit. All abilities welcome. All Wednesdays 5-6pm. 1st class free. Unitarian Meetinghouse, 50 Bloomfield Ave, Hartford. For more info, Diana: 860-461-0908. Hyperbaric Oxygen Club Meetings & Mens Group – 3rd Tuesday: 7pm. Discover the benefits and effects of mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Take a minute off your mile. The men’s awareness group, with discussion and resources, at 8:30pm. Center for Progressive Therapy, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. Meditation as a Way of Living With Tom Dest – 7-8:30pm. Imagine inner calmness and its effect filtering into every area of your life. Feel a flow of love in everything you do and everywhere you go. $10. C4PT, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. 413-822-8486.
Tinker Time, With Robin Ritz, Certified Kaizen Muse Creativity Coach – 8pm. Call in to join group of others using Small Steps and Breaking Blocks. Work on whatever is calling to you; art, crafts, plans, bills, painting, drawing, writing. Free. For event details: 860-450-6164.
Osteotap for Bone Vitality – 7-8pm. Move, breathe, smile, brush, and tap. Manage stress, fortify connective tissues, build bone density and vitalityhealth benefits proven by NIH research. All abilities welcome. $15. Yoga Room, Malibu Fitness, 15 Executive Dr, Farmington. 860-578-2465.
wednesday
Our Mindful Moves – 7-8pm. Move, breathe, smile, brush, and tap. Manage stress, fortify connective tissues, build bone vitality, gain real health benefits proven by NIH research. All abilities welcome. $15. Yoga Room, Malibu Fitness, 15 Executive Dr, Farmington. 860-578-2465.
Coffee with Coach – 7am. Early morning session facilitated by Torin Lee, Life Coach. Learn ways to handle stress, navigate change and make each day count. $10. Oneida Holistic Health Center, 16 West Rd, Marlborough. To register: 860-467-6518. Gentle Yoga – 10:30-11:45am. Gently held postures for joint health and nurturing. $40/30 days, unlimited classes/new students. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642. Clinical Nutritionist Meet & Greet – 12-1pm. 1st and 3rd Wednesday. Meet Cindy Mimo, MS, CCN, and learn how clinical nutrition applies nutrition therapeutically to improve gastrointestinal integrity and reach your individual health and wellness goals. My Life Nutrition, 160 Oak St, Ste 204, Glastonbury. Reservations: 860-888-6467. Emei Wujigong Qigong Group Practice – 12-1pm. Come experience a qigong form for rebalancing and strengthening body, mind and spirit. All abilities welcome. All Thursdays except the 1st of the month, 6:307:30pm. $5, 1st class free. Holistic Therapies Classroom, 15 S Elm St, Wallingford. Info: EmeiQigongChan.com. Nutritional Recovery – 1:30-2:30pm. An educational support group for people struggling with weight management and/or eating disorders. All are welcome. Free. CCAR Windham Recovery Community Center, 713 Main St, Willimantic. 860-423-7088. ShopRite - Kristen’s Recipe of the Week – 3-6pm. Learn a healthy recipe and enjoy free samples. Each event will feature in-season produce. Free. ShopRite of Canton, 110 Albany Tpke, Canton. 860-693-3666. Beginners Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Become aware of your body, mind and breath while exploring movement to create balance and build confidence to attend classes regularly. $20/single, $40/month unlimited. Yoga Born, 1735 Ellington Rd, South Windsor. 860-432-5678. Free Sessions - Epiphany – 6-8:30pm. 1st Wednesday of the month. CranioSacral therapy, Therapeutic Touch, Reflexology, Reiki, and more. 20-minute sessions are provided to promote relaxation, sense of well-being, and to ease discomfort. Children welcome. Free, donations accepted. 225 Commerce Dr, Canton. Iahp.com/Karen-R-Kramer. Free Seminar - Lose Weight and Keep it Off with Ideal Protein – 6:30-7:30pm. Registered nurse explains how easy it is to lose weight while eating whole foods combined with protein supplements without feeling hungry. Free. Living Healthy Weight Loss Center, 112 S Main St, (Rte 177), Unionville. Reservations: 860-977-9001.
Sweat & Surrender Vinyasa Flow – 7:30pm with Kristina Kutsukos. Come breathe, sweat, and surrender in this all levels Vinyasa flow class. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 28 Main St, East Hartford. 860-657-9545.
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thursday Move and Groove - Conscious Conditioning with Sandy Byrne – 8:45-10am. Fusing the expertise of conditioning athletes with yogic consciousness, this fun, energetic class will jump-start your metabolism and get your body feeling strong and supple. $16/ drop-in, class cards available. River Rock Yoga, 274 Silas Deane Hwy, Wethersfield. 860-757-3339. Bump Day – 10am-6pm. 60-minute prenatal massage or reflexology by Colleen Dumas, LMT and certified in prenatal care. Refreshments, raffle. $40. Oneida Holistic Health Center, 16 West Rd, Marlborough. Call for an appointment: 860-467-6518. Feldenkrais® Awareness Through Movement – 12-1pm. Learn gentle yet powerful movements that create strength and flexibility without stretching or straining. $13/drop-in. Holistic Therapies Classroom, 15 S Elm Street, Wallingford. Contact Carol Meade: 203-415-8666. Sweat & Surrender Vinyasa Flow – 5pm with Kristina Kutsukos. Come breathe, sweat, and surrender in this all levels Vinyasa flow class. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 28 Main St, East Hartford. 860-657-9545. Gentle Yoga with Carin – 6-7pm. Gentle yoga is a slower paced yoga class with an emphasis on relaxation and mindful movement. No prior experience required. All welcome. $6. C4PT.org, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. Carin: 860-869-1241. Therapeutic Power Yoga with Dr. Tony Aniello, Instructor & PT – 6-7:15pm. A power practice with a therapeutic approach helps to mobilize stagnant energy within the body, open up energy channels and balance the nervous system. $15/drop-in. Vital Life Center, 100 W Main St, Plainville. 860-479-0466. H.U.S.H. Holistic Universal Sound Healing – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Thursday. Restore the inner balance of the body and awaken the spirit with gongs, crystal and brass bowls. $20. Monthly groups in Columbia. For location and reservations, Linda: 860-428-2097. Qigong Group Healing and Silent Meditation – 6:30-8pm. 1st Thursday of the month. All levels of health addressed. No experience necessary. Fee: donation. Holistic Therapies Classroom, 15 South Elm St, Wallingford. Contact Pat for more info if this is 1st attendance: 203-500-6492. Vinyasa Yoga For Everyone – 7-8:15pm. Classic yoga postures in flowing sequence linked by breath. Learn breathing techniques that keep you invigorated and calm in your daily life. $40/30 days, unlimited classes/new students. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642.
friday
saturday
Chair Massage – Treat yourself to a relaxing break. You decide how long. $1/minute. Oneida Holistic Health Center, 16 West Rd, Marlborough. Walk-ins welcome or call for an appointment: 860-467-6518.
Morning Express Vinyasa Yoga – 7:45-8:45am. Touches on all the essentials of the core standing, balancing, and seated postures. Build strength, heat and focus moving through sun salutations linked with breath and clarity. $40/30 days unlimited classes (new students). Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642.
Community Acupuncture Clinic – 10am2pm. Provides in-group setting using points below elbows and knees. Effective for pain, stress, chronic illness, medication side effects and more. $20-40/ sliding scale, + $10/fee first visit. Windham Hospital, 112 Mansfield Ave, Willimantic. 860-456-6002, option 5. ShopRite - Kristen’s Recipe of the Week – 3-6pm. Learn a healthy recipe and enjoy free samples. Each event will feature in-season produce. Free. ShopRite of Canton, 110 Albany Tpke, Canton. 860-693-3666. Flow and Restore Yoga – 5:15-6:30pm. Combine an active practice with gentle restorative poses to help you transition softly from work to the weekend ahead. All levels. New students welcome. $18 or class pass/membership. Journey of Yoga, 730 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury. 860-680-1482. CommUnity Siddhanath Yoga & Meditation – 6-7:30pm. With Andrew Burkamp. Come learn chakra meditation and pranic healing techniques from the tradition of Kundalini Kriya yoga. $10/ suggested donation. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 28 Main St, East Hartford. 860-657-9545. Positive Energy Music Series @ C4PT.org – 6-10:30pm. Folk, Spirit Song, World Music with nationally recognized artists. Join us with the birds and enjoy our potluck buffet. Open Mic at 9, swimming. C4PT, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. 860-916-2775. Reiki Share – 6-8 pm. 1st Friday. Meet other trusted practitioners and make personal and professional connections. Learn new techniques and get inspiration from the way others practice this healing modality. You will have an opportunity to give and receive reiki. All levels and lineages welcome. Free, donations accepted. Hosted by Andrea Frasier, RMT, CCH at Yoga Born, South Windsor. RSVP by Thursday: 843-467-7918. Community Sauna/Sweats with Medicine Horse – 1st Friday: 6:30pm. Detoxifying and rejuvenating. Into our sweat house for four rounds of positive intentions, drumming, singing and rhythm play. Bring water, sweat clothing and a contribution to the pot-luck dinner. Center for Progressive Therapy, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. Contact Dr. Joe: 860-992-2810. H.U.S.H. Holistic Universal Sound Healing – 7-8:30pm. 3rd Friday. Restore the inner balance of the body and awaken the spirit with gongs, crystal and brass bowls. $20. Monthly groups at Unity Church, South Windsor. For location and reservations, Linda: 860-428-2097.
Ellington Farmers’ Market – 9am-12pm. Thru Oct 17. Over 35 vendors in a quaint country setting. Weekly themes, entertainment and Kids Power of Produce Club. Arbor Park, Main St, Ellington. EllingtonFarmersMarket.com. Gentle Yoga with Holly Prosperi, Instructor, Musician & Vocal Coach – 9-10:15am. In this class you will experience postures and breathing techniques that calm the mind, relax the body and improve joint health and flexibility. $15/drop-in. Vital Life Center, 100 W Main St, Plainville. 860-479-0466. Tai Chi Class – 9-10am. Standing Qi Gong exercises for beginners flowing into the short form of Yang Style Tai Chi. $15. Wu Healing Center, 45 S Main St, Ste 100, West Hartford. 800-990-9332. Yoga with Taylor – 9-10am. Balance your body, mind and spirit doing yoga with Taylor. All welcome. $6. C4PT, 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. Taylor: 860-798-1011. Cat Adoption Open House – 10am-4pm. Protectors of Animals. 144 Main St, East Hartford. POAinc.org. Natural Weight Loss Seminar – 10am-12pm. Learn how tasty and vitamin-packed Aloe Vera drinks and supplements help you to lose and manage weight for a healthy, active life. Free. Bristol (call for address). RSVP: 860-372-8171. Chakradance™ Awakening – 10:30am-12pm. Re-balance your energy by dancing with your eyes closed to music that resonates with your energy centers. Exercise, energize and be enlightened. All welcome. $10. C4PT 192 Hartford Rd, Manchester. 860-836-6665. Belly Dance – 10:45am-12pm. Connect spirit and body through a sensual movement workout. Fusing yoga-based warm ups, belly dance techniques, and a cool-down meditation. Beginners and drop-ins welcome. $40/30 days, unlimited classes/new students. Yoga Center of Collinsville, 10 Front St, Collinsville. 860-693-9642. Beginners Yoga – 11am-12pm. Designed for those with no experience. Learn what is positively possible for your body and mind. $20/single, $40/ month unlimited. Yoga, 1735 Ellington Rd, South Windsor. 860-432-5678. Improve Posture and Balance with the Alexander Technique – 11am-12pm. Learn to prevent aches and pains by aligning your body naturally. Hands-on guidance from teacher will help you too remove tension and move more freely. $15. Miller - Alexander Technique, Farmington. 860-656-6177.
Slow Flow (Unheated) Yoga with Meditation – 11:15am-12:15pm. A slower, gentler flow that still incorporates many of the poses from our traditional power class and concludes with a guided meditation. $18/drop-in. Sanctuary Power Yoga, 23 Franklin St, Torrington. 860-496-1500. Community Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. Come get your vinyasa on for a great cause. All donations go to our Powerful Woman Scholarship Fund at South Windsor High School. $5/donation. The Yoga Shop, South Windsor. TheYogaShopct.com.
classifieds FOR RENT OFFICE / ROOM AVAILABLE – MARLBOROUGH. Looking for a serene space to host your class or workshop? Oneida Holistic Health Center has two spaces for groups of 8-20. Rates vary from $40-$300. Call 860-467-6518. BEAUTIFUL NEW OFFICE SPACE - WEST HARTFORD CENTER. Looking for holistic practitioners who have their own practice, but who would like to share space with other like-minded professionals. Seeking holistic physician, naturopath, energy healer, nutritionist, coach, cranial sacral therapist, or other healing modality. Includes waiting room, internet access, copier, small break room. Ample parking, building is accessible. Contact: Elliott Strick 860-231-8459, www.elliottstrick.com Email: ElliottStrickLMFT@gmail.com. TREATMENT ROOMS FOR RENT - beautiful, fully-furnished, well-equipped, in professional wellness center, high traffic location, downtown Simsbury. Ideal for Massage Therapist, Acupuncturist, Esthetician, Naturopathic Physician. 860-217-1171.
HELP WANTED SEEKI MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL – ProNatural Physicians Group is seeking practitioners interested in working at a progressive, integrative medical clinic in central CT. Includes Doctors, APRN’s, Massage Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and other practitioners who would fit in an integrated medical setting. Must be able to build a practice, take insurances if applicable. Send resumes to: 355 New Britain Rd., Kensington, CT, 860829-0707. Email: ProNaturalPhysicians@comcast.net
SERVICES SEEKING STUDENTS – Holistic Violin Instructor for all ages 2 years and up. Learn the basics to advanced techniques of the violin in a heart-centered teaching approach. Progress easily to the next level. 860-463-3422. REIKI THERAPYAND INTEGRATIVE ENERGY THERAPY – Offering appointments at my office in Farmington. Call Gina Proia, M.S. at 860-716-5318 or email gina_2uconn@yahoo.com. Visit www.LiveByTheSunFeelByTheMoon.MassagePlanet.com
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f you suffer from common issues like fatigue, joint aches, Isurgical headaches, body aches, back & neck problems, postrecovery, trauma, men’s/women’s health, allergies sinus problems, learning & behavioral issues, mind/body and more, our unique integrative approach can help you. HOLISTIC HEALTH You can get yourself and your family on the path to health and well being!
communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. Create your Community Resource Guide Listing online at www.NAHRT.com.
BUSINESS COACHING
THE GRADUATE INSTITUTE (TGI)
Accepted Accredited, non-profitMedicare graduate school offering holistic programs in contemporary and emerging fields. 203-874-4252 www.Learn.edu
34 Jerome Avenue, Suite 304 Bloomfield, CT 06002 860-269-6544 StrategicImprovementAssociates.com If you’re struggling with profitability or to balance the needs of your business, we can help! We want to be your sustainable business resource. See ad on page 31.
COLON HYDROTHERAPY
TGI offers holistic master’s degrees and certificate programs for adult learners. Programs include Integrative Health and Healing, Ecotherapy and Cultural Sustainability, Writing and Oral Tradition, Organizational Leadership, Integrative Health Coaching and Patient Navigation, and more. See ad on page 7.
CONSTACE JONES, I-ACT, NBCHT
Located in Center for Progressive Therapies 192 Hartford Road, Manchester 860-287-4558 CleanMyColon.com Improving colon health in a nurturing, serene, safe, hygienic and comfortable environment, where your utmost privacy and sense of wellbeing are always my greatest concern. See ad on page 13.
HAIR CARE STUDIO 3 SALON
350 Silas Deane Hwy, Wethersfield, CT 06109 www.studio3-salon.com 860-518-4674
34Holistic Jeromehealth Avenue, Suite 305 • Manual Bloomfield, CT 06002 center offering Therapy, Phys(860) Info@IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com ical519-1916 Therapy,• Nutritional Wellness, Natural Health
and Lifestyle Coaching, and natural health Community Education programs. Some insurance billing available. See ads on pages 3 and 10.
ONEIDA HOLSITIC HEALTH CENTER 16 West Rd, Marlborough 860-467-6518 TheOCenter.net
Using a holistic approach, our community of practitioners addresses your underlying issues that are keeping you from truly thriving and return you to optimum health. See ad on pages 10 and 15.
SPIRIT OF THE LOTUS
860-4709-3903 www.SpiritOfTheLotus.org Robin Barros, IMT-C, CSC-C, CSC-A, CPLC-A, , is guided to help you release physical, mental & spiritual baggage, carried for years, lives or generations. Are you living life to it’s fullest? See ad on page 37.
A full-service salon offering certified organic colors and perm processes that provide the ultimate coverage with no corrosive hair damage while improving the work environment by eliminating hazardous fumes. See ad on page 17.
HOLISTIC HEALTH
COUNSELING
ALTERNATIVE HEALTH, INC 625 New Park Ave West Hartford, CT 06110
CULTIVATING CHANGE COUNSELING SERVICES, LLC
392B Merrow Rd, Tolland, CT www.CultivatingChangeCounseling.com 860-458-2020
860-218-2838 www.AlternativeHealthSpas.info
Proving education, individual, couples, and group therapy to help you and your family address everyday life challenges and restore happiness and balance. Most insurances accepted. See ad on page 37.
Restore your health with a customized wellness program to strengthen your immune system. Lose weight, regain energy, improve skin and reduce reliance on prescription medications. See ad on page 8.
HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER FOR PROGRESSIVE THERAPIES
EDUCATION HARTFORD FAMILY INSTITUTE
Center for Psychotherapy and Healing Arts 17 South Highland Street, West Hartford, 06119 203-236-6009 www.hartfordfamilyinstitute.com
192 Hartford Road, Manchester 860-649-9600 C4PT.org
A cutting edge Psycho-therapy & Training Center since 1969. Treatment includes in-depth body emotional work, energy healing, shamanic spiritual healing, illness & trauma work. Training also offered for psychotherapists & healers. See ad on page 20.
Hartford County Edition
519-1916
34 Jerome Avenue, 305 for your FREESuite private consultation and your FREE boo “5 Tips Strengthen(860) the Pelvic Floor and Improve Bladder Function. Bloomfield, CT to06002 519-1916 Info@IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com
EDUCATION
STRATEGIC IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.
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INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS & PHYSICAL THERAPY CALL NOW (860)
www.NAHRT.com
Using a holistic approach, our community of practitioners addresses your underlying issues that are keeping you from truly thriving and return you to optimum health. See ad on page 13.
YOGA CENTER OF COLLINSVILLE 10 Front St, Collinsville, CT 06019 860-693-YOGA (9642) info@YogaCenterCollinsville.com www.YogaCenterCollinsville.com/HC
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You can accomplish the changes you need for a long, healthy life with the help of our certified health coaches. Three, 50-minute sessions for $125. See ads on pages 3 and 14.
LIFE COACHING ALEXANDRA LOWRY
Certified Integrative Life Coach The Wisdom Alliance 860-559-1264 alexandra@thewisdomalliance.com At midlife and feeling stuck and unfulfilled? Together, we’ll shift your learned behaviors and beliefs to achieve deep and lasting change. Call me to explore. See ad on page 6.
JOURNEY OF YOGA
SHANA GRIFFIN, RDN, CD-N
TORIN LEE
Oneida Holistic Health Center 16 West Rd, Marlborough 860-467-6518 TheOCenter.net Certified coach and pastoral counselor bringing 20 years of training and business experience to help you grow from where you are and where you’d like to be. See ad on pages 10 and 15.
MASSAGE DOMEGEOS’S MASSAGE & SKIN CARE
45 S Main St #211, West Hartford 860-231-7546 DomegeosMassageAndSkinCare.com Experience bliss! Our staff is dedicated and our services are designed for the relaxation, renewal, and revival of your mind, body, and spirit. See ad on page 15.
730 Hopmeadow St. Simsbury, CT 06070 www.JourneyOfYoga.com 860-680-1482
ShopRite – Joseph Family Markets 46 Kane Street, West Hartford 860-233-1713 Shana.Griffin@wakefern.com ShopRite’s registered dietitian is your resource to answer nutrition questions, provide menu ideas and tips to help your family live healthier. Call today for help. See ad on page 35.
YOGA CENTER OF COLLINSVILLE
KRISTEN LUDWIG, RD
ShopRite – Joseph Family Markets 110 Albany Tpke, Canton 860-233-1713 Kristen.Ludwig@wakefern.com ShopRite’s registered dietitian is your resource to answer nutrition questions, provide menu ideas and tips to help your family live healthier. Call today for help. See ad on page 35.
NATURAL PRODUCTS DOROTA CHELSTOWSKI
Distributor of Forever Living Products 860-372-8171 Providing excellent health through natural Aloe Vera drinks and supplements to support healthy GI tract and help with weight loss, arthritis, asthma, and acne.
NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE JASON BELEJACK, ND
Oneida Holistic Health Center 16 West Rd, Marlborough 860-467-6518 TheOCenter.net Your first visit will be a complete medical history, comprehensive physical exam. Then we’ll discuss your first step towards rediscovering your health! See ad on pages 10 and 15.
NUTRITION GRANT’S NUTRITION AND WELLNESS
Jane Grant, RD CD-N 37 Webster Square Rd, Berlin, CT 860-357-2282 Get serious about your health and talk to a professional. Personalized nutrition counseling helps you make permanent lifestyle changes to lose and maintain your weight. See ad on page 36.
Inspiring health and happiness with every individual who steps through our door by offering Beginner, Hot Power, Vinyasa, Gentle, and Restorative classes throughout the day. See ad on page 36.
10 Front St, Collinsville, CT 06019 860-693-YOGA (9642) info@YogaCenterCollinsville.com www.YogaCenterCollinsville.com
Experience yoga in the vibrant surroundings of historic Collinsville. Morning / evening classes available: Beginners, Gentle, Mixed, Advanced, Yogalates, BellyDance and yoga for Kids. Dropins welcome! New student special: $40 for one month of unlimited yoga classes. See ad on pages 3 and 14.
WEIGHT LOSS CENTER LIVING HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS CENTER
112 So. Main St. (Rte.177), Unionville 860-977-9001 www.LivingHealthyWeightLoss.com Lose weight safely with the Ideal Protein weight loss program. Led by a Registered Nurse, you’ll eat a variety of whole foods and Ideal Protein supplements.See ad on page 32.
WELLNESS CENTER THE CONDUIT CENTER
Owen James, Director Manchester/East Hartford 860-888-4314 www.TheConduitCenter.com Conduit musicians use gongs, singing bowls and other instruments for effortless relaxation, and personal growth. Sounds deepen other healing practices like yoga and massage therapy. See ad on page 9.
YOGA
Advertise in Natural Awakenings’
August Parenting with Presence & Creativity Issue
CYNDI ROBERTS YOGA
1477 Park Street, Suite 14, Hartford 860-517-9322 www.YogaWithCR.com Cyndi@YogaWithCR.com One-on-one yoga instruction for stress relief, chronic pain, healing from injury, and pregnancy in her private studio in West Hartford. Sessions by appointment only. See ad on page 24.
To advertise or participate in our next issue, call
860-507-6392
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July 2015
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Learn Tai Chi From a Master If you’ve always been interested in exploring Tai Chi, here is your chance to learn from a sixth generation Tai Chi master.
Saturday, Sept. 12 • 10 am to 4 pm West Hartford Town Hall and Conference Center • 50 South Main Street Tai Chi involves slow, gentle movements, deep breathing and meditation and is the ideal full-body exercise for people of any age or physical ability. The practice tones muscles, trains the major ligaments that serve as the springs of the body, and strengthens biomechanical alignments. This enables the bones and internal organs to withstand the forces of gravity that pull on all the other parts of your anatomy. The movements of Tai Chi continuously massage your internal organs, creating beneficial compressions in the lungs, heart, liver, kidneys and spleen.
• Reduce stress • Improve immune system • Improve strength and balance • Increase stamina and vitality • Reduce pain and stiffness • Improve bone density • Protect against depression, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
Register before July 30 and get $10 off the $60 registration fee. Call 860.606.0578 or visit www.WuHealing.com to register.
Wu Healing Center 45 S. Main St, West Hartford 48
Hartford County Edition
www.NAHRT.com