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Nature’s Virus Killer
not a sniffle!” she exclaimed. Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night. “It saved me last holidays,” she said. “The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.” Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said. By Doug Cornell “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” cientists have discovered a cold never got going. That was A man with trouble breathing natural way to kill germs fast. September 2012. I use copper in the through his nose at night tried copper Now thousands of people nose every time and I have not had a just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in are using it against viruses and bacteria single cold since then.” years!” he said. in the nose and on “We can’t In a lab test, technicians placed 25 the skin. make product million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. Colds start health claims,” he No viruses were found surviving soon when cold viruses said, “so I can’t after. get in your nose. say cause and Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply effect. But we confirming the research. He placed fast. If you don’t know copper is millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, antimicrobial.” “They started to die literally as soon as they spread and He asked they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. relatives and Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right In hundreds friends to try it. right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. of studies, EPA and They reported unwanted germs gathering there. university researchers have confirmed the same thing, so he patented The handle is curved that viruses and bacteria die almost CopperZap® and put it on the and textured to increase instantly when touched by copper. market. contact. Copper can That’s why ancient Greeks and Soon hundreds of people had kill germs picked up on Egyptians used copper to purify water tried it. The feedback was 99% fingers and hands after and heal wounds. They didn’t know positive if they used the copper you touch things other about microbes, but now we do. within 3 hours after the first sign people have touched. Scientists say the high conductance of unwanted germs, like a tickle The EPA says copper of copper disrupts the electrical balance in the nose or a scratchy throat. still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in Early user Mary Pickrell tarnished. Copper quickly kills seconds. said, “I can’t believe how good CopperZap is made cold viruses. Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA27. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?” Go to www.CopperZap.com or call MRSA and other illnesses by over half, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for toll-free 1-888-411-6114. and saved lives. Christmas and called it “one of the best Buy once, use forever. The strong scientific evidence gave presents ever. This little jewel really Statements are not intended as inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When works.” product health claims and have not been he felt a cold about to start he fashioned Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to a smooth copper probe and rubbed it suffering after crowded flights. Though diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any gently in his nose for 60 seconds. skeptical, she tried copper on travel disease. “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and ADVERTORIAL
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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET
“There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving, and that is your own self.” ~Aldous Huxley There are things we would all like to make better in our world, and uncertainties have been mounting recently, but if we start by improving our own wellness, and educate ourselves on how this can be accomplished, we will have more power to shift the condition of our planet. In terms of our personal effectiveness in the world, we are our own best asset. On that note—Welcome to our 2022 Natural Living Directory! For those of you who are new to our Directory issue, this is a year-round wellness guide, rich with local resources offering healthy and sustainable services and products to help you live a healthier life on a healthier planet. In our Directory section, you will read about Connecticut holistic practitioners, wellness centers, health products and sustainable services with detailed information about the benefits and uniqueness of their offerings. We have also included a holistic glossary. In every issue of Natural Awakenings, our editorial focus is on personal and planetary wellness—And promoting and supporting LOCAL resources and retailers. We are a solution-oriented magazine and our intention is to inform, educate, inspire and present actions you can take to feel better and be kinder to Mother Earth. This month’s editorial theme is Food and Nutrition, specifically plant-based eating, which is healthier, more resource-efficient, climate-friendly and cruelty-free. Learn about palatable meat substitutes and try out the plant-based recipes in our Conscious Eating department. When you buy your fresh produce for these yummy recipes, remember to shop at your local farmers markets. The food quality is better, local produce carries a smaller carbon footprint and you are supporting the Connecticut economy! Local naturopathic physician, Dr. Dana Krete writes about the difference between food allergies and food sensitivities, which can exacerbate symptoms of inflammation, the root of most chronic diseases. Brittney Hawthorne and Michael Baczewski, founders of New England Pollinator Gardens, share their extensive knowledge about restorative land care and steps we can take to help our beautiful planet thrive, while improving our own health too. Spring is a good time for cleansing, not just dietary cleansing, but clearing the muck and yuck out of our energy. Learn seven ways to energetically detox in Katie Cavenaugh’s article: “How to Detox Your Body After Absorbing Trash Energy.” It has been my observation and experience that our pain, anger and fearful reactions stem from our attachment to the material world and the strain of pushing our way through life, trying to control the uncontrollable. Vedaji, a life-long yogi, mystic and founder of the nonprofits Mindful Seva Institute and Food4Lives, shares his wisdom on all of this and how to find peace in a three-step yoga formula. Whether you are looking for a wellness or retreat center, integrative/holistic practitioner, thermographer, doula, nutrition/life/spiritual coach, herbalist, pet energy healer, massage therapist, healthy food or CBD product vendor, green landscaper/ gardener or a devise with health apps (LOVE my Apple Watch!), you will find it in this treasure trove of Connecticut resources! And lastly—I cannot overstate this enough—Buy local! Support your LOCAL businesses and retailers. Now, turn the pages and start exploring!
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Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.
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Contents
10 PLANT-BASED FOODS GO MAINSTREAM
Healthy Eating Gets Easier with Innovations
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13 EASING INTO A VEGAN LIFESTYLE
Clever Meat Substitutes that Please the Palate
16 ARE HIDDEN FOOD
SENSITIVITIES HOLDING YOU BACK?
20 HOLISTIC WELLNESS
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THROUGH RESTORATIVE LAND CARE
22 ANN ARMBRECHT
on the Business of Ethical Botanicals
24 HOW TO DETOX YOUR BODY AFTER ABSORBING TRASH ENERGY
52 A YOGI’S WISDOM:
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HOW TO FIND PEACE
The Yogis Peace Formula
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54 A WEEKEND WARRIOR SURVIVAL GUIDE
Prevention, First-Aid and Recovery
56 BEYOND KIBBLE
How to Shop for the Healthiest Pet Food
DEPARTMENTS 6 health briefs 8 eco tip 13 conscious eating 16 healing ways 18 green living
22 wise words 26 2022 directory 52 inspiration 54 fit body 56 natural pet 58 calendar 61 classifieds 2022 Natural Living Directory
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Drink Coffee and Tea to Reduce Dementia and Stroke Risk There’s good news for coffee and tea drinkers in recent research: consuming two to three cups a day of each beverage has been found to significantly lower the risk of stroke by 32 percent and of dementia by 28 percent compared to abstainers. Researchers from Tianjin Medical University, in China, analyzed a databank of 365,682 UK residents between 50 and 74 years of age that reported their coffee and tea consumption over 11 years and found that drinking both beverages in the course of a day correlates with a lower risk of stroke and dementia compared to drinking either one exclusively. Also, drinking three to six cups of coffee alone or in combination with tea was associated with a lower risk of post-stroke dementia. “Coffee and tea are distinct beverages with both overlapping and different contents. One potential mechanism may be related to the combined protective role of the different antioxidants and other biological contents in these two beverages,” the study concluded. 6
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Fatigue that hampers daily activities is a major symptom of heart failure, the leading cause of U.S. hospitalDepression relief may ization for people over 65. To exbe as close as the plore inexpensive and accessible vinegar bottle on the herbal treatments, researchers at kitchen shelf, acthe Aja University of Medical Scicording to a ences, in Tehran, Iran, divided 120 new study from heart-failure patients into three Arizona State groups: one received aromaUniversity therapy, breathing in lavender involving 25 essence every day; another healthy college took 530 milligram capsules of students divided valerian root extract daily; and into two groups. the third group had convenFourteen drank tional medical therapy with no two tablespoons herbal supplementation. After 15 days, fatigue was of Bragg’s apple cider vinegar diluted in one cup of water twice daily with meals, while 11 students consumed a vinegar significantly reduced in both tablet that contained 1/100 as much vinegar twice daily. After herbal groups, while individuals receiving four weeks, using psychological tests and urine samples, only conventional the researchers found a 20 to 34 percent reduction in selfcare did not experireported depression scores from the test group compared to ence a noticeable slight increases in depression in the control group. Several relief in fatigue. metabolic alterations were found consistent with improved mood, including enzymatic dysfunction in the hexosamine pathway, as well as significant increases in glycine, serine and threonine metabolism. “With over 40 percent of college students self-reporting moderate-to-severe depression—a 77 percent increase over the past decade—simple and safe strategies that effectively reduce depression in this population are urgently needed,” the authors write.
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Take Vinegar to Lower the Blues
Try Lavender and Valerian to Reduce Fatigue
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health briefs
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Run 10 Minutes for a Brain Boost Exercise is used by people of all ages to elevate a sluggish mood, and new research shows that a mere 10 minutes of moderateintensity running also boosts cognitive function. In tests with 26 subjects, researchers from the University of Tsukuba, in Japan, found that a short burst of running improved the set of cognitive processes involved in planning, organizing and self-control by increasing blood flow to the bilateral prefrontal cortex. “Given that running is a whole-body locomotive exercise, it may confer more mental health benefits compared to other forms of exercise such as cycling,” says study author Hideaki Soya, Ph.D.
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Eat Alpha Lipoic Acid-Rich Foods to Live Longer A high dietary intake of foods containing alpha lipoic acid (ALA), a plant-based amino acid essential to the body’s metabolism, is associated with a 10 percent lower risk of death from all causes, an 8 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease death and an 11 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease, reports a new study in The BMJ, a peer-reviewed medical trade journal published by the British Medical Association. An international team of researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 41 studies involving 1,197,564 participants that were followed for up to 32 years. They found that each additional gram per day of ALA (equivalent to one tablespoon of canola oil or a halfounce of walnuts) was linked to a 5 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease death. “A higher intake of ALA, however, was associated with a slightly higher risk of cancer mortality,” the researchers wrote. ALA is found in nuts, soybeans, canola oil, flaxseed, chia seeds and other food sources such as avocados, dairy products, navy beans and oatmeal.
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eco tip
The 411 on Styrofoam
Susane Grasso
Why We Should Just Say No Because it is heat-resistant, extremely lightweight and relatively sturdy, Styrofoam is commonly used for takeout food and beverage containers, egg cartons, craft materials, home insulation and product packaging. The harm it causes to human health and the planet outweighs its convenience, however, and a growing number of cities in Asia, Europe and the U.S. have banned its use, including Minneapolis, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, New York City and Washington, D.C. The word Styrofoam, which stands for a polystyrene plastic foam made from nonrenewable crude oil, is actually a trademark owned by the Dow Chemical Company in more than 90 countries. Despite city restrictions and growing concern over its safety, 3 million tons of it is produced every year in the U.S. GrabillCreative/GettyImages.co,
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Human Health Risks Two known toxins—benzene and styrene—are released during the manufacture of this puffed, #6 plastic. The toxins are also released whenever it is subjected to heat—by contact with a hot beverage or in the microwave, for example. In a 1986 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study, styrene was detected in the fatty tissue of every man, woman and child tested. The tens of thousands of people that live and work in environments with high concentrations of styrene have higher instances of cancer, neurological issues, headaches, depression and fatigue, while chronic exposure to benzene is believed to cause blood disorders, negative reproductive effects and increased incidence of leukemia.
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Sustainable Living
Environmental Impacts The manufacturing process of polystyrene was rated as the fifth-largest source of hazardous waste by a 1986 EPA report. It is estimated that 680 pounds of greenhouse gas are emitted to produce 10,000 plastic foam cups. Styrofoam is virtually non-biodegradable, and only 1 percent of it is recycled. Approximately 2.3 million tons end up in landfills every year, releasing toxins into the air and breaking into smaller particles that make their way into waterways, polluting the human drinking supply and posing great risk to marine life that ingests microplastics. Better Alternatives It is best to avoid using Styrofoam altogether, opting instead for plant-based, stainless steel, ceramic or glass containers to carry food and beverages. Choose manufacturers and shipping companies that use biodegradable packing materials instead of foam. At the grocery store, purchase eggs in paperboard cartons and get fresh cuts of meat from the butcher rather than those packed in foam trays. At home, select Earth-friendly insulation and steer clear of foam-based craft supplies.
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Our professional team of holistic and natural businesses provides community outreach and education. We are committed to improving the health and wellness of body, mind, and spirit in the communities we serve. Visit our Site: HolisticCommunityProfessionals.org
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LMT, RMT, Psychic Jill Andrzejewski LMT, RMT, Psychic Massage Therapy #9900 Reiki & Chakra Balancing Angel Tarot & Oracle Card Readings A Moment In Time Treasures items for self-care and healing Workshops and classes 203-909-1108 jillamomentintimemassage@gmail.com AMomentInTimeMassage.org
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Wellness Center The Red Barn in Durham Janice Juliano, MSW, LCSW Holistic Psychotherapist Coordinator MassageTherapy Nutrition / Yoga / Reiki / Sound Healing Professional Photography / Art Classes 860-559-6151 352 Main St, Durham TheRedBarninDurham.com
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Plant-Based Foods Go Mainstream Healthy Eating Gets Easier with Innovations by Carrie Jackson
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lant-based eating has seen an explosion in the past few years as consumers become increasingly aware of how their food choices impact their health and the environment and align with their ethics. According to market research firm SPINS, plant-based eating is now a $7 billion market in the U.S., with $1.4 billion represented by plant-based meat. Consumers can now expect to see veggie burgers at the ballpark, vegan dairy at the cafe, tuna substitutes in every grocery store and a plant-based entrée at Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether vegetarian, vegan or flexitarian, almost 40 percent of Americans are shifting to a plant-based diet, according to a 2018 Nielsen report. While a plant-based diet supplies essential nutrients and reduces the risk for some cancers, consumers now rank the health of the planet as their number one concern, overtaking personal health, which has been the top priority in recent years, according to market researcher Innova Market Insights. Such an eating regimen can lead to a more sustainable use of resources, combat climate change and help preserve biodiversity. According to a University of Illinois study published in the journal Nature Food, animal agriculture is responsible for 57 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions from food production, which accounts for 35 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions.
Plant-Based Companies Align with Values
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Elysabeth Alfano, the founder of Plant Powered Consulting, sees a plant-based diet becoming a lifestyle as consumers demand a broader range of options. “It’s becoming increasingly normal to find plant-based foods and meat alternatives in every grocery store. Oat yogurt, seafood alternatives and vegan honey are now mainstream. People are seeing how inefficient and harmful meat production is and are making the connection between saving the environment and their lifestyle choices,” she says. Alfano is also the co-founder and CEO of VegTech Invest, an investment management firm that is the first global exchange-traded fund of plant-based companies; it launched January 4 on the New York Stock Exchange, comprising 37 publicly traded companies actively innovating with plants and plant-derived ingredients, and producing products that are animal-free. “We believe that today’s investors want a more resource-efficient, climate-friendly and cruelty-free food and materials supply system, and want to invest their dollars in the same,” says Alfano.
Dairy and Seafood Alternatives Abound In the grocery store, it’s never been easier to shop for plant-based options. Companies are getting creative and optimizing products that stand on their own merits, instead of just mimicking meat, fish and dairy. With alternatives such as oat, almond and even potato milk touting sustainable credentials, as well as a creamy texture, plant-based dairy is having a surge. Sales in the plant-based seafood sector grew 23 percent from 2019 to 2020 according to market data from The Good Food Institute. Nestlé recently launched Vuna, a vegan tuna alternative made of pea protein, wheat gluten, rapeseed oil, salt and a flavor blend, and other companies are jumping on board as consumers are becoming more aware of the seafood industry’s environmental problems, particularly overfishing. While a handful are specializing in proteins derived from fermentation and others are developing lab-grown seafood, most are focusing on plant-based products. Due to their fibrous consistency, jackfruit and yam root are ideal fish alternatives for fillets and sticks. Vegan fish stock, as well as plant-based scampi and king prawns, can be found in vegan grocery stores and such online shops as ShopVejii.com and GTFOItsVegan.com.
Mushrooms Become a Plant-Based Superfood Mushrooms are having a heyday due to their versatility, and companies are harnessing them as a source of fiber, protein and antioxidants. Meati.com is a Boulder-based startup that uses mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, to create a whole-cut product that offers the protein of animal meat with the nutrients of fungi. “We believe that systemic change can start with people replacing animal meat even a couple of times a week. Eating Meati chicken or steak shouldn’t feel like a huge departure from animal products, and the nutrition offered is superior to any food out there,” says Christina Ra, vice president of marketing and communications. “People can enjoy eating Meati and feel great about how they’re nourishing their bodies.” With $50 million in recent venture capital funding, the company is building an 80,000-square-foot production facility and plans to start selling its substitute chicken and beef in national markets later this year. Meati has drawn on ancient, natural processes to grow clean, sustainable sources of nutrition. “Mycelium is an infinite, selfreplenishing food source. Made from a closed-loop system, Meati uses less than 1 percent of the water and land needed for animal meat production,” says Ra. The company grows and harvests the mycelium indoors in stainless steel fermentation tanks using only water, sugar and nutrients. Unlike the animal agriculture industry, no antibiotics, growth hormones or pesticides are used.
Vegan Coaching and Delivery Make It Easy For people that aren’t ready to experiment with plant-based cooking themselves, vegan and vegetarian meal-delivery services are popping up. One such program is Plantable.com, founded by Nadja Pinnavaia and designed to give clients the tools to transi2022 Natural Living Directory
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photo courtesy of VegNews.Plantable.com
tion into a plant-based lifestyle. Customers sign up online for either a seven- or 28-day program that includes daily shipped meals, one-on-one counseling through phone calls and texts, and lifestyle recommendations to form new habits. “Our goal is to make plantbased eating so tasty and effortless that it becomes a way of life,” Pinnavaia explains. She says the idea behind Plantable, which is based in New York, but will ship anywhere in the country, is to make plant-based eating less of a barrier for people. “Most of our clients are either looking to kickstart a new lifestyle and don’t know how to begin, or they are busy and want the ease of prepared meals made from scratch with real, clean ingredients. Our menu is a whole-food, plant-based way of eating that is filled with fiber and packed with nutrients. We focus on legumes, tofu and nuts as sources of protein,” she says. Pinnavaia, who holds a Ph.D. in quantum chemistry, became interested in food and nutrition after having too many family members diagnosed with cancers. Since launching
Plantable in 2016, she has observed more clients coming in on their doctor’s recommendation. “We’re seeing a shift towards more consumer-driven health care, where doctors are understanding that meal planning and nutrition are critical to overall health. The community in general is also taking more ownership of their own health and gaining more knowledge of the benefits of a plant-based diet,” she says.
Eating Out Gets Healthier For people dining out, there is no shortage of plant-based options, and that goes beyond a salad and fries. Eleven Madison Park, in New York City, is the first vegan restaurant to receive a Michelin star. Even fast-food chains are getting on board, with McDonald’s introducing the McPlant burger and KFC debuting a Beyond Chicken made of soy and wheat. Joe Hehl, the founder of Dragged Through the Garden, a Chicago-based company that consults with restaurants and breweries looking to expand vegan options, has seen an 12
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uptick in interest. “Adding a plant-based option or two on the menu can absolutely set some new eyes on a restaurant’s operation. Now this place will show up in searches for ‘restaurants with vegan options’ and appeal to an audience who potentially wouldn’t have eaten there otherwise. Plus, it’s not super-costly on the bottom line,” he explains. He adds that the availability of meat substitutes on a menu, such as an Impossible Burger, makes it easy for people trying to cut down on their meat intake. “Mainstream substitutes are a little more accessible than something like a bowl of quinoa to someone who is not vegan. This new era of plant-based burgers offers an alternative for those who want to wind down their meat intake, but are unsure how to start,” he says. Hehl also offers clients recipes and guides for recreating vegan versions of traditional fast food and kitsch menus. Past recipes have included a Vegan Philly Cheesesteak and the Vegan Chorizo Sloppy Joe, for which he offers step-bystep instructions and encourages followers to have fun and experiment with ingredients such as oat milk. “I grew up in a very meat-and-potatoes household and had no knowledge of cooking whatsoever. As I learned about some of the benefits of a plant-based diet, I decided to embrace it as a challenge to myself,” he says. “My favorite plant-based ingredients to use are garlic powder and smoked paprika! Some people are eating plant-based ingredients without even realizing it.” Consumers have no shortage of options as plant-based eating and lifestyle choices continue to go mainstream. Companies are meeting the demand with creative, sustainable products and services that are better for the planet, healthier for the body and allow people to align their values with their purchases. As the interest increases, new innovations are likely to explode on the scene and the plant-based followers are ready. Carrie Jackson is an Evanston, IL-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
conscious eating
Easing into a Vegan Lifestyle CLEVER MEAT SUBSTITUTES THAT PLEASE THE PALATE by Sheila Julson
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oday’s wide availability of vegan meat substitutes in the grocer’s freezer helps break the ice for people that want to experiment with plantbased foods. The taste, convenience and quality of these products has improved greatly over the past decade, but like many convenience foods, some packaged faux meat products can be high in sodium or fillers. While packaged, meat-alternative products are ideal for a tasty occasional treat, there’s a whole world of options beyond the freezer aisle for those that want to expand their vegan palates. Arielle and Brandon Hawthorne, coowners of Twisted Plants, a popular, plantbased restaurant in the Milwaukee area, make their vegan food approachable by creating plant-based foods that mimic everyday, non-plant-based options. “I think that motivates people to try it because they feel they can still have the same flavor and taste they’re used to, but in a healthier version,” Arielle says. They use items like jackfruit, a species of tree in the fig family, which takes on the taste and consistency of pulled pork when shredded and marinated in sauces or spices. Going plant-based does not mean going without. Del Sroufe, a vegan chef based in Columbus, Ohio, culinary specialist at the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutritional Studies and author of the Forks Over Knives companion cookbook, recommends that people craft satisfying, plant-based entrées at home by starting with recipes they like, and then looking for plant-based versions of those. “If you like pizza, you can still have pizza. If you like Italian cuisine, there are plenty of Italian recipes,” he says. Priyanka Naik, a self-taught Indian vegan chef, Food Network champion and 2022 Natural Living Directory
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author of the new vegan cookbook The Modern Tiffin, advises to gradually start a plant-based diet with one meat-free day per week and then increase. She adds that when eating out, opt for vegetarian or vegan options to be sure a plant-based lifestyle is sustainable outside of the home kitchen.
Plant-Based Options BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER BITES
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This healthier version of buffalo wings is meat-free and baked instead of fried, but full of flavor and spice. It can be eaten plain or, as Sroufe recommends, as a Buffalo Po’ Boy sandwich, served on a whole-grain hoagie or sandwich buns with cabbage and peanut slaw. ½ cup water ¼ cup almond butter ½ cup red hot sauce, plus extra for tossing with the cooked bites ¾ cup whole-wheat pastry flour ¼ cup nutritional yeast 1 ½ Tbsp granulated garlic 1 large-head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch florets (about 6 cups) Preheat the oven to 375° F. Combine everything except the cauliflower in a large bowl. Mix well. Add the cauliflower florets and toss until thoroughly coated. Place the coated florets on a nonstick baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Toss with extra red hot sauce if desired. Recipe and photo courtesy of Del Sroufe.
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Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country.
photo courtesy of Del Sroufe
Substitutes at Home The concept of protein at the center of every dinner plate has been ingrained in American culture. Dismantling that perspective opens up a whole new world and encourages thinking about vegetarian and vegan food in a new light, Naik says. Sroufe adds that we often believe we won’t get enough protein from plant-based foods. “There’s been a lot of science to refute that. The World Health Organization has identified people that exist healthfully on less than 6 percent protein in their diets.” Fruits, vegetables and grains are often more economical than packaged convenience foods, especially when purchased from local farmers markets. Pasta, rice and beans, which can be purchased in bulk, are budget-friendly. Naik cooks with the objective of putting vegetables at the forefront, using her Indian ancestry and global influences to make veggies the star of the show. Cauliflower and eggplant can be prepared in “steak” form as a main course or stand in as healthier versions of pub-food appetizers like buffalo chicken wings. For those craving meatier flavors, chickpea flour becomes crumbly when water is added, effecting a good substitute for ground beef. Adding chipotle, cumin and other seasonings emulates taco meat. “Chickpea flour is high in protein and is used in a lot of Indian cuisine,” Naik says. “You can buy the flour or grind dry chickpeas to make the flour.” Jackfruit adapts easily to myriad recipe styles. Sroufe notes it can be used in dumplings and tacos. Hawthorne also uses it to make vegan ribs and in beef-style stews. Don’t toss that banana peel—Naik says using clean, organic banana peels after the flesh has been removed is a zero-waste approach to plant-based eating. Cooks can shred the peel with a fork and sauté it with soy sauce and other spices to mimic pulled meat. Tofu gets a bad rap, Sroufe says, noting that many people worldwide eat soy products without experiencing digestive issues. He often uses tofu for a number of presentations. “Silken tofu can be used to make pudding. Crumbled tofu can be substituted for ricotta in lasagna, or you can marinate tofu to make bacon for sandwiches. It’s a good, filling food.” Sroufe also uses millet as a base for meatloaf, meatballs and sloppy joes. Several mushroom varieties have meaty textures, and when battered and fried, they emulate fried chicken. Hawthorne also uses mushrooms as a meat replacement in Philly cheese steak sandwiches. Seitan, made with a vital wheat gluten base, can be used for meatballs. By experimenting with an array of vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds to create balanced textures and flavors, even the choosiest omnivores won’t miss the meat.
ONE-PAN SKILLET EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA Inspired by the Italian restaurants of her Staten Island neighborhood while growing up, Naik has created a vegan version of this Italian favorite.
(meat side should be tender and able to pierce with a fork).
photo courtesy of Priyanka Naik
Sprinkle with a bit of kosher salt, cover with the lid and cook another 4 to 5 minutes. Eggplant should be very soft, fork tender and cooked, but not falling apart. Remove from pan.
1 Tbsp neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable oil) 1 medium-sized Italian eggplant, split in half lengthwise 2 tsp olive oil 1 tsp Calabrian chili oil 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 1 sprig of fresh oregano 1 cup of jarred marinara sauce
1 sprig of fresh basil (extra for garnishing) 3-4 Tbsp water 1 Tbsp sugar 1 Tbsp tomato paste 1 tsp red pepper flakes 4 slices vegan mozzarella ⅓ cup plain breadcrumbs Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pour about 1 Tbsp neutral oil into a medium or large nonstick skillet. Heat over mediumhigh flame. Meanwhile, score the meat of the eggplant in crosshatches. Do not to cut all the way through the skin. Place eggplant slices meat side down into the hot skillet and cover with a lid. After 3 to 4 minutes, check the eggplant to be sure it’s turning golden brown; if it looks charred, lower the heat. Cover with lid and continue cooking for another 5 minutes. Flip eggplant slices
Lower heat slightly and pour in olive oil and Calabrian chili oil. Once hot, add garlic, sautéing until slightly golden. Add the sprig of oregano. Once super-fragrant, pour in the jar of sauce and a sprig of basil and water. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add sugar, tomato paste, salt, black pepper and chili flakes. Mix until incorporated and smooth. Once the sauce starts bubbling, add eggplants meat side-up. Cover the lid and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Put cheese slices on top of the eggplant and close with the lid. While the cheese is melting, toast breadcrumbs in a separate pan. Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toast until golden brown and crispy. Turn off heat. Remove lid from eggplant and once cheese is fully melted, top with breadcrumbs and fresh basil, and remove from heat. Serve with Italian crusty bread. Recipe and photo courtesy of Priyanka Naik.
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healing ways
Are Hidden Food Sensitivities Holding You Back?
H
by Dr. Dana Krete
ave you suffered with symptoms for months or years, without being able to pinpoint a specific trigger? Have you ever thought a food, or foods, might be the cause, but you couldn’t narrow it down to a specific food? Food sensitivities are a poorly understood and often overlooked common contributor to many different symptoms and medical conditions. What is the difference between food sensitivity and food allergy? IgG food reactions are called “sensitivities,” which is a different type of reaction than food allergies. IgG is a type of antibody, which is a part of your immune system. Food allergies are mediated by a different type of antibody, called IgE. Food allergy reactions are, by definition, an immediate hypersensitivity, meaning you react very immediately when you eat a food you’re allergic to. It’s typically easy to identify a food allergy after a few exposures because of this immediate reaction. If you eat 16
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peanuts and get itching in your mouth immediately after, you only need to eat peanuts a few times to connect the reaction with the peanuts. In contrast, IgG-mediated food sensitivities are, by definition, a delayed hypersensitivity reaction. This means you might react right away, or it may take up to three days to react. Because of this delay in reaction, it can be very difficult to figure out what food, or foods, a person is reacting to, even when someone is journaling food intake and symptoms, and working very hard to figure out food triggers for their symptoms. It is also important to keep in mind that this means eating a food you’re sensitive to even twice per week can keep the inflammatory and immune reaction going of all the time! Often when people suspect a food is causing their symptoms, they try cutting back on the food. This is often not an effective method of figuring out food reactions; just two exposures per week can cause constant or
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cyclical symptoms that seem unrelated to intake of the food in question. What type of symptoms can IgG food sensitivities cause? Since IgG antibodies can circulate all throughout the body, they can cause a wide variety of symptoms. The reaction to the food in the body leads to immune activation and inflammation, which can show up just about anywhere. They can contribute to symptoms that may seem random and unrelated, as well as to chronic disease, since the root of all chronic disease is inflammation. Some of the most typical reactions include digestive symptoms, eczema or rashes, pain, sinus congestion, susceptibility to infections, acute viral infections often turning into sinus infections or bronchitis, fatigue, brain fog, lack of focus, headaches, and migraines. Food sensitivities can also increase or exacerbate seasonal or environmental allergic reactions and asthma, as well as autoimmune conditions. A 2002 review article by Searman
concluded that, “we can no longer view different diseases as distinct biochemical entities. Nearly all degenerative diseases have the same underlying biochemical etiology that is a diet-induced pro-inflammatory state. Although specific diseases may require specific treatments, such as adjustments for hypomobile joints, betablockers for hypertension and chemotherapy for cancer, the treatment program must also include nutritional protocols to reduce the pro-inflammatory state.” This is a testament to the importance of a whole foods, less processed, anti-inflammatory diet, but also to the role of food sensitivities in the diet as specific foods that cause inflammation. In general, conventional medicine tends to deny the contribution of food sensitivities to symptoms, even including IBS and other digestive disorders. Unfortunately for suffering patients, there has been limited research on IgG food sensitivities, in large part due to research funding primarily being allocated to patentable pharmaceutical products that generate large profits, though there are some small studies in the medical literature A study done by Yale in 2004 found that in those with IBS, a 12-week elimination diet based on IgG food sensitivity testing resulted in a 10-26% greater reduction in IBS symptoms as compared to a sham diet in the control group. The better the compliance with the diet, the greater the improvement in symptoms. A condition called eosinophilic esophagitis, which causes symptoms of difficulty swallowing, food impaction, vomiting and heartburn is an allergic inflammatory condition of the esophagus that involves eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. Eosinophils are usually associated with allergies. Research has shown that IgGmediated food sensitivities have more of an impact on this condition than actual IgE food allergies. They have found that IgG-sensitive food intake leads to specific immune reactions that then trigger eosinophils causing an allergy-like reaction, leading to inflammation and chronic symptoms. Finding and eliminating food sensitivities, along with additional treatment to eliminate inflammation and heal
Since IgG antibodies can circulate all throughout the body, they can cause a wide variety of symptoms. The reaction to the food in the body leads to immune activation and inflammation, which can show up just about anywhere. the gut are key strategies to not only manage, but to actually cure this condition, which is otherwise considered chronic. Research has shown that a gluten or wheat sensitivity specifically can lead to reactions that cause abnormal immune activation and high levels of inflammation in the gut. The terms non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) and non-celiac wheat sensitivity (NCWS) are generally used to refer to this condition, when removing gluten from the diet resolves symptoms, after testing negative for celiac disease and wheat allergy. It was previously thought that sensitivity did not produce an inflammatory reaction in the gut like celiac disease does. It is now known that psycho-neurological issues such as ADHD, mood disorders and migraines are some of the most common reactions to gluten or wheat sensitivity, second only to digestive disorders and symptoms. The following is a quick case study demonstrating how food sensitivities can pop up at any age and can cause very specific reactions. A 65-year-old woman presented with constant itching, flaking and redness all over her scalp for about nearly three months. She had no previous history of skin rashes or conditions. The condition
seemed to start after a trip to Italy, though she had no idea if or how it might be connected to the travel. She had no other new symptoms. She was overall healthy with no other complaints, and on no medications. As part of her work up a blood IgG food sensitivity test was ordered. The rest of the work up was unremarkable, but her food sensitivity test showed high reaction to eggs. The patient removed eggs from her diet and within two weeks, the skin reaction was 100% resolved. The patient then found through reintroduction of eggs that if she ate eggs baked into foods occasionally, she had no return of symptoms; if she ate eggs as a meal she began to again experience itching on her scalp. Any practitioner who uses food sensitivity tests on patients will have countless similar cases, with a huge variety of symptoms and food reactions between patients. While gluten, dairy and eggs tend to be the most common food sensitivities, any food can be the culprit. Most food sensitivity panels test anywhere from 50 to 300 foods. To have food sensitivity testing you will likely need to see a naturopathic physician, integrative/holistic physician, APRN or nutritionist, or find a way to test it yourself. Many lab companies now offer testing kits you can order yourself and complete at home. Because testing quality and reliability varies, it’s recommended to see a practitioner or physician who knows a reliable lab and orders this type of testing to avoid wasting money on a test that may not be accurate. A knowledgeable practitioner will also help create an effective plan from your results so that you get the most out of your testing and have the best chance of recovering from your symptoms. Dana Krete, ND, LAc is a naturopathic physician, licensed acupuncturist and founder of Fernwood Holistic Health in Westbrook. She treats digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic fatigue, chronic Lyme and tick-borne disease, autoimmune disorders, musculoskeletal pain, and more. Connect at 860-661-5824, Info@FernwoodHolisticHealth.com, or follow Fernwood Holistic Health on Facebook and fernwood_holistic_health on Instagram. See Profile on page 33. 2022 Natural Living Directory
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green living
THE BOUNTY OF FARMERS MARKETS
Buying Local Boosts Health, the Economy and the Planet
rawpixel/AdobeStock.com
by Sandra Yeyati
T
hroughout the nation, an estimated 8,000 farmers markets offer some of the freshest food available anywhere. Often open on weekend mornings or select weeknights, these nutritional meccas allow local farmers to sell their fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat and dairy directly to consumers, thereby providing an attractive business channel for them. “If you buy direct from a farmer, 97 cents of every dollar goes home with the farmer, whereas if you buy from a traditional grocery store, only 17 cents makes its way back to that farmer,” says Janie Maxwell, executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association. 18
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Dollars spent at farmers markets boost local economies. “When farmers make money, they buy seeds at their local co-op or purchase tools from a nearby hardware store, which infuses economic capital into rural communities,” says Katie Myhre, technology research manager at the Farmers Market Coalition. “If we can focus on
life’s work, and their reputation is on that label. I sense that there’s a real desire to ensure great quality and safety.” Regularly buying fresh food from a farmers market allows families to get into the habit of eating in season. “Cooking seasonally allows you the opportunity to capture the incredible flavor profiles of what’s fresh. It has just been picked and tastes incredible—very different from the flavors you get from grocery store products that were produced someplace else, maybe even weeks or months ago,” Maxwell explains. Myhre concurs: “If we can build our habits, cooking preferences and skills around those seasonal rhythms, that’s a really beautiful benefit. It’s awesome for me to know that these herbs were harvested yesterday. There’s also a wide diversity of products. You’re not going to see 12 varieties of squash at your big-box grocery store. I’m always surprised by what I see, and it’s a really fun experience as somebody who loves food. Taking home really great-tasting products that were produced with so much care is a central benefit.” For many, the farmers market is a community gathering. In addition to local growers, they often include cottage food vendors offering homemade jams and jellies, baked goods, sauces, preserved and pickled items and other delicious foods, as well as arts and crafts vendors and musical entertainment. “The wonderful thing about the farmers market is that it leads with joy,” Myhre says. “It’s fun. You don’t invite friends to the grocery store, but you might meet your friends for coffee at the farmers market.”
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growing the capacity of our farms within our region and building consumer habits around what we can grow locally, that’s going to help our region become more resilient.” This type of localized commerce offers environmental benefits, too. Produce from a local source carries a much smaller carbon footprint than one that travelled halfway across the country. “Farmers markets are uniquely positioned to encourage environmentally responsible farming by providing a solid economic platform to climate-positive farmers that are taking care of land and water quality,” Myhre asserts. According to a study commissioned by the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance, 72 percent of consumers know “nothing” or “very little” about farming or ranching. Farmers markets facilitate ongoing dialogues between growers and consumers, serving as valuable educational sites. “Getting to know your farmer offers you an opportunity to ask questions directly to the person growing the product and make a choice accordingly, whereas when you go into grocery stores, you’re fed a lot of advertising and greenwash labeling with terms that you don’t understand,” Myhre says, adding, “While many small farmers decide not to go through the costly United States Department of Agriculture organic certification process, their farming practices are often just as clean or even more so, and at a farmers market, consumers are able to look the farmer in the eye and learn about their growing methods.” Maxwell appreciates the opportunity to make an educated choice. “As a consumer, you have to decide what is your highest value. For me, the most compelling reason to shop at a farmers market is the peak, inseason, quality of the food, the incredible taste and nutrition that you get because it was freshly harvested and didn’t have to be transported over long distances. The number of people that touch your food is significantly lower at a farmers market, so there’s less opportunity for it to be mishandled or cross-contaminated. It carries the name of the producer on it. This is their
Shirley Prendergast, CTT, INHC B Well Thermography 380 Boston Post Rd, Orange, CT 06477 For other locations please call: Cell 203-915-9712
www.bwellthermography.com 2022 Natural Living Directory
19
through Restorative Land Care by Brittney Hawthorne and Michael Baczewski
W
e have the power to profoundly influence the health of our planet, our communities, our families, and ourselves—and it begins right in our own backyard. How did our yards become so unhealthy? When you purchase or rent a property, you inherit the land care decision of the previous owners. Spanning over a century, the fixation to attain the “perfect lawn” and “ideal yard” has led generation after generation to make harmful land care decisions that not only place local ecosystems in peril but the health of future generations as well. Treated with toxic chemicals, depleting vital resources and lacking biodiversity, the average American yard is unhealthy, and it is impairing 20
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our health and wellness too. Widespread Use of Toxic Chemicals Insecticides, synthetic fertilizers and pesticides have detrimental ecological and human health implications. Pesticides alone have been documented to infiltrate ground water and pollute waterways— what is more startling is that they are still readily used today in the modern landscape. In fact, Americans use more than one billion pounds of pesticides per year. In 2018, Cornell’s College of Human Ecology researchers Joseph Laquatra, Mark Pierce, Alan Hedge and Ann Lemley examined the extent of indoor pesticide pollution in 350 New York homes. They found all 350 homes tested positive for pesticide residue. “Numerous health problems occur from
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exposure to pesticides, such as cancer, birth defects, leukemia and ocular toxicity, among a number of other health issues. Households with crawling toddlers should be concerned, as toddlers will accumulate pesticide residues on their hands and then ingest them due to hand-to-mouth behaviors,” the authors concluded. Furthermore, pesticide residues are tracked into homes by shoes, bare feet, clothing, animal fur and even through airborne entry; once inside a home, pesticide residues can remain present for years. The Societal and Ecological Impact of Excessive Maintenance Inputs As our collective well-being and public health becomes challenged by droughts, flooding, wildfires and unpredictable weather patterns shaped by climate
Photos provided by New England Pollinator Gardens
HOLISTIC WELLNESS
5. purchase or, even better, grow diverse selection of neonicotinoid-free native plants;
change, our earth resources deserve to be stewarded responsibly. NASA estimates there to be nearly 31,360,000 acres of conventional lawn in America. Now think of the amount of fossil fuel required to mow or the amount of water required to maintain that acreage annually? You can be the judge if maintaining the American lawn is worthy of the carbon footprint it produces or if the amount of water it consumes each year is sustainable.
6. inform and educate family, friends, neighbors and community about the importance of taking these restorative land care steps; and 7. support small businesses like local native plant nurseries to reduce the overall carbon footprint of product supply chains.
communities and for ourselves, our influence can be restorative. Restorative land care is rooted out of the several key principles.
The Problem with Too Much Lawn “We are at a critical point of losing so many species from local ecosystems that their ability to produce oxygen, clean water, flood control, pollination, pest control, carbon storage, etc.—that is, the ecosystem services that sustain us—will become seriously compromised,” notes University of Delaware professor and author Doug Tallamy of this dire American moment when conventional lawn is void of the ability to sustain or enhance the biodiversity required to support all livings things. While a confluence of poor land care decisions has transcended generations and consequently, left our landscapes polluted and holistic well-being challenged, there exists an opportunity to help Mother Nature heal and to create healthy, more sustainable and more biodiverse landscapes. The Restorative Land Care Movement Through ecological based design, and the use of organic land care practices for Mother Nature, our families, our
n The Principle of Health: Our work sustains and enhances the health of soil, plants, animals, humans and our planet. n The Principle of Ecology: Our work sustains and emulates living ecological systems and cycles. n The Principle of Fairness: Our work builds relationships characterized by shared values and stewardship of a shared world. n The Principle of Care: Our work fosters the health and well-being of current and future generations and the environment. Restorative land care steps that we can take this year to help Mother Nature thrive and, in turn, help all of us thrive include: 1. avoid using pesticides, insecticides, synthetic fertilizers and other toxic chemicals; 2. reduce or eliminate unnecessary inputs such as daily watering or costly mulch; 3. reduce the overall square footage of lawn and restore it back to a flourishing natural habitat through the introduction of neonicotinoid-free native trees, shrubs and perennials; 4. remove invasive plant species that harm ecological vibrancy;
Citations and Helpful Resources Northeast Organic Farming Association (CTNOFA.org) Wild Ones (WildOnes.org) Ecological Landscape Alliance (EcoLandscaping.org) Homegrown National Park (HomegrownNationalPark.com) Brittney Hawthorne and Michael Baczewski, AOLCP, founded New England Pollinator Gardens, a full service ecologicalbased design and restorative land care company serving clientele throughout New England. The company focuses on strategic and sustainable sourcing practices. Their professional certification and affiliations include NOFA Organic Land Care Program, WildOnes, Ecological Landscape Alliance and Doug Tallamy’s Homegrown National Park. Connect at NewEnglandPollinatorGardens.com or Instagram @newenglandpollinatorgardens.
2022 Natural Living Directory
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wise words
Ann Armbrecht
on the Business of
Ethical Botanicals
riter and anthropologist Ann Armbrecht explores the relationship between humans and the planet, notably through her work with plants and plant medicine. Her book The Business of Botanicals: Exploring the Healing Promise of Plant Medicines in a Global Industry tells the stories of the people and places behind the global industry of herbal products which are largely invisible to the consumers that spend $9 billion annually on them. Armbrecht is the director of the American Botanical Council Sustainable Herbs Program and is co-producer of the documentary film Numen: The Nature of Plants, inspired by her experience studying herbal medicine with herbalist Rosemary Gladstar. Although her current work focuses on the herb industry, she is interested in broader questions about how the purchasing choices everyday citizens make impact the world. Armbrecht is also the author of the memoir Thin Places: A Pilgrimage Home, based on her time conducting ethnographic research in Nepal and her continued questioning of culture and community back home in the U.S. 22
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What surprised you the most in your journey around the world tracking the herbal supply chain? I was surprised by the level of mechanization and scale, and the careless way plants were often handled—sometimes stored in open sacks and huge piles, with one type of plant spilling into another without controls for moisture and rodents. But I was also surprised to discover my own naiveté about the supply chain. These were both important realizations to help me come to a more nuanced, realistic assessment of the challenges the different stakeholders face in bringing herbs to market.
What should consumers consider when purchasing herbal products? Alternative medicine and health care frame wellness as a personal choice, focused on the individual’s health, yet we have a responsibility back to the plants that heal us and the people who care for them. We can’t be well unless the planet is well. By purchasing an herbal product that has been produced in ways that care for the Earth and local communities, we can start to heal the planet and address social inequities. Purchasing Organic Certified products is a start. Someone I met at Organic India said every time you have a cup of herbal tea that isn’t certified organic, it’s like steeping a cup of pesticides. It doesn’t make any sense to consume something for its medicinal properties that has been made with pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Certified Organic is not a perfect system—no certification is—but it operates as a stand-in for relationships and trust. These herbs change hands up to 15 times to get to a consumer, so there has to be a way to keep a paper trail and ensure product integrity. When consumers ask for Certified Organic, it signals to the marketplace that sustainability matters and helps drive change in the industry.
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quangho/Shutterstock.com
W
photo courtesy of Bryce Youk
by April Thompson
Seeking out fair trade products is also great when possible. The FairWild certification, for example, works toward ecological, social and economic sustainability in the supply chain of wild-collected products.
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What key trends are you seeing in the herbal industry? There is a trend toward regenerative farming, which focuses on issues like how cultivating plants affects soil and biodiversity. There is also a new focus on social equity for people growing and collecting herbs, as many of them are living on the fringes of society in precarious situations. We are doing case studies to look at details like how the structure of contracts and timing of payments affect smallholder herb farmers so we can make appropriate recommendations and hold companies accountable.
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What gives you the most hope about the herbal industry right now? The people I got to know in my travels are working really hard to take care of the plants and of the communities to bring a sense of ethics, equity and transparency into the system. A lot of money is made at the very end of the value chain and not at the source. Individuals and companies in the industry are working to address these imbalances. More consumers are asking questions and becoming empowered citizens, and that also gives me hope. When I studied herbal medicine, what was most powerful for me was learning simple ways to take care of myself and my then-1-yearold daughter. Learning to make these simple remedies was deeply empowering. Without that knowledge, it’s easy to be overwhelmed walking through the supplement aisle of the drugstore, not knowing where to begin other than to read labels and try to compare one marketing claim to another. Taking steps to learn more about herbs and where they come from helps people make a shift from consumer to citizen. That level of engagement also brings more meaning and connection, which people are hungering for. Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.
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Statewide Benefit * HoliStic expo
Sunday | May 1 | 10am - 5pm | Vendors 10am-4pm
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Holistic Community Professionals
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23
After Absorbing Trash Energy by Katie Cavenagh.
What you feed your mind is just as important as what you feed your body. What you feed your soul is just as important as what you feed your mind. What’s the difference?
M
indset is one thing; heartset is another. Both are equally important yet have different functions. Mindset deals with reframing the way we think about things, becoming aware of our patterns and reactions, and gives us the opportunity to tweak the way we communicate ourselves to the world. Heartset is aligning with our soul and being congruent with our words, thoughts, feelings, actions and beliefs—the five energetic elements that create our reality. It’s about listening to and following our hearts to fulfill our greatest purpose and 24
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live a life that allows us to express ourselves in our most authentic truth. These days there is no lack of toxins that we allow in our bodies; as we become more conscious of these things, we can clear them out, change the patterns and allow for an upgrade. We are not just talking about food, the news and people; we are talking about energy. Trash energy is abundant and many of us empaths tend to absorb the energies of others who are around us. Think about feeling drained after being in a crowd, being around certain people, or even just grocery shopping. These energies we absorb become part of our “diet” of the day, and we need to take some time to sort out what’s ours and what we’ve picked up by just existing in the world on a daily basis. We’ve all heard of the detoxifying cleanses we can do for our bodies to eliminate waste, heavy metals and other toxins, but how about cleansing ourselves of some
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of the energetic rubbish we take in? This is important especially for healers as our clients can sometimes drain our energy unconsciously if we’re not careful. Here are seven ways to energetically detox from the day. 1. Brush it off. Physically brush off the body with the hands and flick the energy off the fingers. Send it back to the universe to be recycled back into love. Fluff the hair too as hair is an antenna for energy and can trap bits and pieces of other people’s stuff. This is perfect to do in between clients or right before leaving work for the day. 2. Cut the cords. During an encounter with someone or a session with a client, there is a shared energy field created during the interaction. Sometimes we can carry that energy with us unknow-
Rido81/Bigstock.com
HOW TO DETOX YOUR BODY
We’ve all heard of the detoxifying cleanses we can do for our bodies to eliminate waste, heavy metals and other toxins,
can assist in removing anything we’ve picked up or wants to hang around in our fields that might not be ours. Sound is one of the easiest ways to cleanse as we all have voices and bodies we can use at any time to clear our space. 7. Move and shake. There’s nothing like moving the body freely to music, engaging in quiet and focused movement of yoga or qigong, or even going for a hike in the woods. Moving the body allows for the energy to release and reset, bringing back the state of homeostasis (and not to mention feels really good).
the energetic rubbish we take in?
Being conscious of what we ingest energetically throughout the day and making sure we eliminate the toxins will help strengthen our energetic bodies and fields. It’s important to nourish our emotional, mental and spiritual bodies with love and care just as we would our physical body. By cleansing energetically, we help feed our soul with love and light, raising our vibrations and ability to serve the world.
ingly. Be sure to cut any connections by returning their energy to them and making sure anything given to them is done and can’t be siphoned out from us.
Katie Cavenagh is an energy alignment specialist and sound healer, located at The Red Barn in Durham and online at FeelYourLight. com. Connect at Katie@FeelYourLight.com. See directory listing on page 46.
but how about cleansing ourselves of some of
3. Let it go. If we are hanging on to emotions or thoughts that irritate or upset us, we are perpetuating that feeling each and every time we think of it. Got cut off in traffic this morning and are still reeling about it at lunch? Remember that holding onto anger is like drinking poison and waiting for someone else to die. Keeping it in only hurts the body and brings down our energy, and constantly talking or complaining about it only keeps it alive. 4. Take a shower. There’s nothing more relaxing than a nice shower at the end of the day to wash away anything that may have been picked up. Image the water as liquid light and allow it to run over the body, cleansing and purifying, leaving a layer of golden protection. Watch all the day’s troubles, challenges and sludge simply spin down the drain, and ask Gaia to help transmute the lower vibrations back into loving rain to nourish the Earth. 5. Take out the trash. Noticing our own trash energy is integral to becoming more conscious and light. When we refuse to take a look at our own shadow, it can keep us in loop cycles that prevent us from attaining our next level. Sitting with our own stuff and truly allowing ourselves to feel and lean into it helps alchemize and unwind the energy. Everything we’ve ever experienced in life is stored in the body, so noticing where it feels tight, restricted, resistant or tense is a hint to where the trash is piled up.
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6. Sound cleansing. Using sound—whether it’s voice, gongs, singing bowls, bells, rattles, clapping or something else—does an amazing job of dispelling dense energy. Clearing a space after a session or even scheduling time to hop in a group sound healing 2022 Natural Living Directory
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& Glossary
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Braulttree Wellness Center
Roslyn N. Carrier-Brault, MA, UWTH, CHT, RMT 415 Killingworth Road, 2nd Floor, 9A, Higganum, CT 860-344-9573 roslyn@braulttreewellnesscenter.com BraulttreeWellnessCenter.com Business summary/ Primary services offered: At Braulttree Wellness Center (BWC) Roslyn and her husband, William offer Universal White Time Healing both hands-on and with Crystal and Mineral layouts sessions, while the sub-leasing practitioners offer Reiki Healing sessions. BWC is situated in Higganum, which five minutes from Middletown, and it is a lovely space to rent for small classes and workshops. How does your holistic business differ from others in your profession? At BWC, Roslyn and William are energy lightworkers, who exclusively work with Universal White Time, which is a New Earth healing modality that vibrates at a higher frequency, because it connects with the Cosmic Central Sun. Additionally, Roslyn enjoys offering hands-on healing for people and by request pets are welcome to join in all private healing sessions. What benefits should customers/clients expect from your services? BWC offers a safe space that supports and meets each client’s healing process. A lot can be mended while working with a healer without judgement, being seen and heard, while drinking a warm cup of herbal tea, before each healing session. How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? BWC is dedicated to spreading awareness and the benefits of Universal White Time Healing, and supporting a centralized community with Bradford W. Tilden, Master Teacher. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? At BWC Universal White Time Healing and Gemstone Healings sessions are scheduled for 90-minutes. BWC believes that a 90-minute session provides a client enough time to arrive, get into what needs to be released, healed, processed, and integrated, with enough time to return to a grounded, safe mindset before leaving BWC. Additionally, BWC works in conjunction on with Intuitive Pet Care and Training, LLC, which services Middlesex County.
Chi for Healing
Erik Harris The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main Street, Durham, CT 860-593-8397 erik@chiforhealing.com ChiForHealing.com Practice summary/Primary services offered: Chi for healing integrates Chinese medicine with holistic healing practices to provide a full-faceted program to take back your health. Erik specializes in helping people suffering from chronic pain and illness to find and treat the root cause of dis-ease. He offers virtual consultations for Chinese herbs, Tong Ren therapy, Holistic Health coaching, Emotional support with EFT, and private Qi gong or Meditation instruction. What drew you to this profession? As part of my healing journey with chronic pain and illness I was introduced to a variety of holistic healing practices, one of them being Chinese medicine. My life was forever changed from using these healing modalities. I decided that I wanted to help others find ways to heal themselves using the tools that helped me. How does your holistic practice differ from others in your profession? My practice is a collaborative approach to healing that focuses on the body, mind, and spirit connection. With the multiple modalities that I work with I have many avenues to support my client’s needs. I have 13 years of experience working with people and I have helped them heal from a variety of conditions. What should a client expect from working with you? I create a safe and harmonious environment so that clients can feel comfortable to go within and heal. I work with my clients to create a plan to map out the goals that they have for their healing journey. This gives them the tools that they need to take the healing into their own hands. How is your practice evolving in 2022? In 2022 I am expanding upon my virtual offerings. I am in the process of creating a private membership group online called Gaia centric healing. I will also provide a new podcast and certification courses. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? My mission is to empower people to take a holistic view of their health, to become more connected to themselves, and the natural way of life. My goal is to help people to create lasting change in their lives. I support people to move through their healing journeys and become the best version of themselves. 2022 Natural Living Directory
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glossary
AROMA FREEDOM
ACUPRESSURE Based on the same system as Acupuncture, but fingers and hands are used, instead of stimulation with needles, in order to restore the balanced flow of the body’s life energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). This force moves through the body along 12 energy pathways, or meridians, which practitioners unblock and strengthen. Common styles of Acupressure include Jin Shin, which gently holds at least two points at once for a minute or more, and Shiatsu, which applies firm pressure to each point for three to five seconds.
ACUPUNCTURE Acupuncture is an ancient Oriental technique which stimulates the body’s ability to sustain and balance itself. It is based on the theory that an electromagnetic life-force is channeled in a continuous flow throughout the body in a network of “meridians.” Disease is understood as an imbalance in the meridian system. Needles are inserted at specific points along the meridians to stimulate or disperse the flow of life-force, in order to correct the imbalance. The systems of diagnosis used read the pulse, face, tongue and body energy. Acupuncture principles include the yin and yang polarities and the five elements’ associations with bodily organs.
AKASHIC RECORDS The Akashic Records are an energetic imprint of every thought, action, emotion and experience that has ever occurred in time and space. The Akashic Records can also be understood as the imprint of all experiences of all lifetime in all realities. They are an etheric, holographic, repository of information for human consciousness for the past, present and potentials for the future. The knowledge contained in the Akashic Records is imprinted upon a subtle substance called the Akasha, which describes the energy of Love that permeates and creates everything in the Universe.
ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE A system of re-educating the body and mind to support and facilitate proper posture and ease of movement. Through gentle manual guidance, accompanied by verbal directions, the Alexander teacher coaches the student to become aware of unnecessary tension and to unlearn longstanding patterns of movement. The Alexander Technique is an established method for helping to improve chronic conditions such as back, shoulder or neck pain, nervous tension, poor coordination, breathing problems and vocal strain. It is frequently used by athletes and performing artists to improve performance level.
A R O M AT H E R A P Y Aromatherapy is an ancient healing art utilizing the essential oils of herbs and flowers to treat emotional disorders such as stress and anxiety, as well as a wide range of other ailments. Oils are massaged into the skin, inhaled, or placed in baths. Aromatherapy is often used in conjunction with Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Herbology, Chiropractic, and other holistic treatments. 28
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Aroma Freedom is a step-by-step process for identifying and releasing negative thoughts, feelings and memories that interfere with reaching our goals and dreams. It is meant to be used as a way to set a person’s emotional energy flowing in a positive direction, towards growth and expansion rather than contracting in fear, doubt and paralysis. It uses therapeutic grade essential oils to trigger a permanent shift in how we view ourselves and the world. There are currently four distinctly different processes meant to help you through extreme stress, traumatic memories, procrastination or overwhelm, or a full session as described above. This process was developed by Dr. Benjamin Perkus, clinical psychologist since 1996 and veteran essential oil practitioner.
ART THERAPY Uses the creative process of making art to improve and enhance physical, mental and emotional well-being and to deepen selfawareness. The therapist works with clients and encourages them to express their feelings and unconscious thoughts through the nonverbal creative process and by observing the forms and content created.
AY U R V E D A Practiced in India for thousands of years, Ayurveda is an ancient medical system combining physical, psychological and spiritual therapies. It focuses on disease prevention and natural maintenance/protection of the whole person (mind, body and soul), achievable through the balancing of five elements (space, air, fire, water and earth). Various combinations of these elements form three energies known as Doshas: Vatha; Pitta; and, Kapha. Every body is some amalgamation of the Doshas, an imbalance of which disrupts health or causes illness. Depending on the individual, treatments may include Herbal Medicine, Aromatherapy, Detoxification, Massage, Nutritional Counseling, stress reduction, exercise, behavioral modification, and more.
BIOENERGETICS Bioenergetics is a psychotherapy that works through the body to engage the emotions. Specific postures and exercises create a condition where the body cannot continue both the exercise and the chronic muscular tension and defensiveness (known as body armoring). Continuing the exercise causes the release of layers of body armor. As feelings are unlocked, this creates the opportunity for understanding and integrating those feelings.
BIOFEEDBACK Biofeedback is a relaxation technique that involves careful monitoring of internal body states. Used especially for stressrelated conditions such as asthma, migraines, insomnia, and high blood pressure, Biofeedback is a way of monitoring minute metabolic changes in one’s own body (e.g., temperature changes, heart rate, and muscle tension) with the aid of sensitive machines. By consciously thinking, visualizing, moving, relaxing, etc. one learns which actions produce desirable changes in the internal processes being monitored.
Crystal Music Healing Bradford Tilden, MM, CMT, UWT CT/MA, remotely and globally 860-830-5841 Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: I teach professional certification classes in Universal White Time (UWT) Healing. I perform sound healing meditations. I offer sessions in UWT Healing, Lemurian Intuitive crystal and sound healing, guided visualization and vocal activation coaching. I sell crystals, gemstones and original healing music. What drew you to this profession? Creating music is my gift to the world. Discovering that my music has inspirational healing qualities led me to the healing arts. These disciplines have guided me through personal health recovery, spiritual growth, empowerment and transformation. Now I provide to others what I have achieved for myself. How does your holistic practice differ from others in your profession? I use exclusive, powerful and effective higher vibrational modalities such as UWT, of which I am the only certified Gemstone Healing Teacher in the Northeast. What should a client expect from working with you? I strive to ensure my clients and students obtain a sense of peace, empowerment and improved quality of life. Clients feel safe and trusting of my abilities, patience and non-judgement. How is your practice evolving in 2022? I am continuing to grow a community of certified UWT practitioners, developing a sound healing certification program, and offering the UWT Level 1 Energy Healing Class online. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I love to be interviewed. Reach out to me! I will also travel to teach the UWT classes to your local community. Also, I am a resident sound healer at the Bridge Healing Arts Center in Farmington, CT and facilitate a sound meditation every other Thursday evening at 6pm.
CT Thermography
April Beaman 11 Melrose Dr. Farmington, CT 212 New London Turnpike Glastonbury, CT 860-415-1150 info@ctthermography.com CTThermography.com Practice summary/Primary services offered: CT Thermography offers the highest standards in noninvasive, radiation-free breast and full body medical thermal imaging, also known as thermography. What drew you to this profession? Having two friends diagnosed with breast cancer in their early 30s after finding a breast lump. Knowing there isn’t a breast cancer screening advised for those under the age of 40, my mission is to educate women of all ages. It’s never too early to assess breast health. How does your holistic practice differ from others in your profession? CT Thermography is more than just a thermal imaging center. As a medical thermographer I strive to support my clients following their thermography screening. Whether it’s referring them to additional health practitioners or by providing the tools necessary to improve their breast and overall health. What should a patient expect from working with you? My passion, I love what I do! Now more than ever people are looking to be proactive with their health. A thermography screening allows you to see the body differently than any other health screening, empowering you to take the steps necessary for optimal health. In addition, I realize medical procedures can be daunting and nerve racking for some so CT Thermography has a relaxed, comfortable environment. How is your practice evolving in 2022? Besides our main office in Farmington and satellite location in Glastonbury we’ve added an additional satellite location in Hadley, Massachusetts. Several of our clients travel from other states to see us which has prompted the need for additional offices. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Although thermography is widely known for breast cancer screenings, it can be utilized by women and men. Additionally, it’s an effective screening tool for whole body health including but not limited to-thyroid assessment, cerebrovascular evaluation, peripheral vascular disorders and neuromuscular conditions.
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glossary
COLON THERAPY
B O DY WO R K A general term referring to therapeutic techniques involved with manipulation and realignment of the body in order to improve its function. Massage and Yoga are perhaps the best known types of Bodywork, both having proven success in relieving tension/stress, promoting blood flow, loosening stiff muscles and stimulating the organs. There are countless Bodywork techniques within Massage (e.g.: Swedish, Shiatsu, Rolfing), Yoga (e.g.: Hatha, Iyengar, Kundalini), and otherwise (e.g.: Aikido, Alexander Technique, Bowen, Feldenkrais, Pilates, Rosen Method, T’ai Chi Chuan, and Trager). Finding Bodywork that improves mental and physical health is a very individual process and several can be combined for the greatest benefit.
C H E L AT I O N T H E R A P Y Chelation Therapy is a non-surgical medical procedure that improves metabolic and circulatory function by removing undesirable heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, copper and others from the body. Typically administered in an osteopathic or medical doctor’s office, Chelation Therapy is a series of intravenous injections of the synthetic amino acid EDTA. Once in the bloodstream, EDTA blocks excess free radical production, protecting the tissues and organs from further damage. Over time, injections aim to halt the progress of the underlying condition that triggers the development of many degenerative diseases. More recently, Chelation Therapy has also been used to help reverse symptoms of atherosclerosis or arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by removing the obstructive plaque that has built up in the circulatory system.
CHINESE MEDICINE Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the world’s oldest complete systems of holistic health care. It combines the use of medicinal herbs, Acupuncture, Food Therapy, Massage, and therapeutic exercise, along with the recognition that wellness in mind, body and emotions depends on the harmonious flow of life force energy known as qi.
CHIROPRACTIC Chiropractic is based on the premise that proper structural alignment will permit free flow of nerve activity in the body. Since the spine is literally the backbone of human health, when spinal vertebrae are out of alignment, they put pressure on the spinal cord (and nerves extending from the spinal cord), resulting in diminished function and illness. Misalignment can occur in a variety of ways including physical trauma, poor posture and stress. The chiropractor seeks to analyze and correct these misalignments through spinal manipulation or adjustment.
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Colon Therapy is an internal bath that washes away old toxic waste accumulated along the walls of the colon. It is given with pressurized water by a professional using special equipment. One colonic irrigation is the equivalent of approximately four to six enemas. Colonic irrigations reach every part of the intestinal tract, cleaning out matter that collects and remains for years in the pockets and kinks of the colon. The treatment is used as a corrective process, and for prevention of disease. Colonics are recommended for ailments such as constipation, psoriasis, acne, allergies, headaches and the common cold, to name a few.
COLOR THERAPY and COLORPUNCTURE The impact of color on mood is widely recognized. Color Therapists believe that different hues can treat illness and improve physical, emotional, and spiritual health. According to the theory, the vibrations of color waves can directly affect body cells and organs. Many practitioners also claim that the body emits its own “aura,” or energy field, the colors of which reflect a person’s state of health. Color Therapists apply color through lights or mental suggestion to restore both the body’s physical and psychic levels. Colorpuncture is a system that combines the insights of light physics with the knowledge of the meridian points emphasized in Acupuncture. This non-invasive technique is used to clear blockages and restore healthy energy flow in the meridians. Kirlian photographs track improvements. Another sensory healing technique is light therapy, which attempts to restore well-being and can be successful in treating the depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
CORE ENERGETICS A path of personal growth employing physically expressive techniques for emotional release and psychological process work. Developed by John Pierrakos, MD, Core Energetics is a marriage of Body Psychotherapy and Spiritual Development. The work brings consciousness to places of blocked energy in the body/mind, and recreates the defense patterns learned in childhood that keep people limited and disempowered. Those who experience Core Energetics can be awakened to the fullness of their life-force, feel their hearts open, and become grounded in the integrity of who they really are.
C O U N S E L I N G / P S YC H O T H E R A P Y Counseling and Psychotherapy encompass a broad range of practitioners, from career counselors who offer advice and information to psychotherapists who treat depression, stress, addiction, and emotional issues. Formats can vary from individual counseling to group therapy. In addition to verbal counseling techniques, some holistic therapists may use bodywork, ritual, energy healing, and other alternative modalities as part of their practice.
Eagle Flight Healing LLC Cathy Stubbs, RN, Reiki Master, Shaman Certified Light Body Healer 203-535-8849 EagleFlightHealing@gmail.com EagleFlightHealing.com
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: Light body healing releases unresolved emotions and traumas retained in our bodies. They affect our physical, mental and emotional health, how we see ourself and the choices we make. Chakra illumination and soul retrieval are 2 methods I use in my healing practice to release trauma, fear, pain, shame and to discover limiting beliefs and find lost aspects of soul. Soul holds mattering. The more integrated we become in soul, the more we allow ourselves to matter. What first drew you to Shamanic Energy Healing? Practicing Reiki showed me how empathic I am, I felt called to study shamanism. Special training/certifications I am a licensed RN, certified Reiki Master, Certified Light Body Healer, Shaman. How does your work differ from others in your profession and what should a client expect from working with you? Sessions are guided by a client’s intention, higher consciousness and guides. Clients learn a breathing technique that aids the releasing desired. Expect to feel lighter, freer, peaceful, more vitality, happier, more present with a new perspective. How is your practice evolving in 2022? I have added more visual imagery to sessions, if directed by higher consciousness. The imagery may involve a healing of the inner child, opening the heart or meeting one’s optimal future self. With dreaming, desire, imagination and expectation we throw out possibilities for our future. The issues of the past can interfere with the process. Shamanic healing resolves the past, raising one’s energy of vibration.
Elm City Wellness
774 Orange Street, New Haven, CT 203-691-7653 493 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 475-238-7841 ElmCityWellness@gmail.com ElmCityWellness.com Business summary/ Primary services offered: Elm City Wellness focuses on whole-body wellness, providing custom bodywork, acupuncture, skin care, and holistic yoga all under one roof. Our wellness stores feature locally made gifts, self-care supplies and a wide range of quality CBD oils, creams, gummies and more. How does your holistic business differ from others in your profession? We place a heavy emphasis on self-care at Elm City Wellness, because practitioners who take care of themselves have the energy to care for others joyfully because that caregiving doesn’t come at their own expense. What benefits should clients expect from your services and/or products? We are a one-stop shop for New Haven’s wellness seekers. Our skilled massage therapists, acupuncturists and estheticians offer sessions that are thoughtful, compassionate and client-centered. How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? We are in constant evolution. Since opening our second location at 493 Whitney Ave., we now offer private yoga and free CBD consultations, and have expanded our holistic product lines at both locations. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? After a session at Elm City Wellness, many clients walk away with a deeper understanding of their bodies and new ways to care for them. Our intention is to make Elm City Wellness a place to relax and heal.
What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I establish a safe, loving environment. Intentions do not need to be shared with me. Sessions are via cell phone.
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glossary
D E T O X I F I C AT I O N
CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY ( CST ) A manual therapeutic procedure to remedy distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism — the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the skull, the sacrum and interconnected membranes. Craniosacral work is based upon two major premises: that the bones of the skull can be manipulated, because they never completely fuse; and that the pulse of the cerebrospinal fluid can be balanced by a practitioner trained to detect variations in that pulse. CST is used to treat chronic pain, migraine headaches, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), ear and eye problems, balance problems, learning difficulties, dyslexia and hyperactivity.
C R YS TA L A N D G E M T H E R A P Y Crystal and Gem Therapy involves the use of quartz crystals and gemstones for therapeutic and healing purposes. Crystals have their own unique energy frequencies. They have the capacity to amplify other frequencies which may assist with healing. They also absorb and store frequencies and can be programmed to carry healing intention. In the ancient art of “laying-on of stones,” practitioners place crystals and gemstones on various parts of the body, corresponding to chakra points, to balance energy flow.
DA N C E M OV E M E N T T H E RA PY
The practice of resting, cleansing and nourishing the body from the inside out. According to some holistic practitioners, accumulated toxins can block or drain the body of energy and make it more susceptible to disease. Detoxification techniques may include fasts, special diets, sauna sweats and colon cleansing.
DOULA A person who supports an expectant mother through pregnancy, labor, birth and the postpartum period. Studies indicate that support in labor has profound benefits, including shorter labor, less desire for pain medication, lower rate of Caesarian delivery and more ease in initiation of breast feeding. Fathers have reported that they were more relaxed with a Doula present because they felt reassured, and therefore freer to support their mates. (Also see Midwife).
EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE ( EFT ) A self-help procedure founded by Gary Craig that combines fingertip tapping of key Acupuncture meridian points while focusing on an emotional issue or health challenge and repeating key phrases. Unresolved, or ‘stuck,’ negative emotions, caused by a disruption in the body’s energy system, are seen as major contributors to most physical pains and diseases. These can remain stagnant and trapped until released. EFT enables that release, is easy to memorize, free and can be done anywhere.
A method of expressing thoughts and feelings through movement, Dance Movement Therapy as practiced today was developed in the United States in the 1940s. Participants attend sessions given by trained therapists in which they are encouraged to move freely, sometimes to music. Dance Movement Therapy can be used by people of all ages to promote self-esteem and gain insight into emotional problems, and it is also practiced to help those with serious mental and physical disabilities. As such, it is widely used in the United States, and is becoming established around the world.
ENERGY FIELD WORK
DECLUTTERING
E N E R G Y P S YC H O L O G Y
Based on the theory that clutter drains both physical and mental energy. Decluttering involves two components. The first focuses on releasing things (clothing, papers, furniture, objects and ideas) that no longer serve a good purpose in one’s life. The second focuses on creating a simple system of personal organization that is easy to maintain and guards against accumulating things that are neither necessary or nourishing.
The term refers to psychological methods that change the human vibrational matrix (meridians/acupoints, chakras, biofields) by stimulating specific Acupuncture points. This is often done by tapping these points in a set protocol. Energy Psychology (EP) is frequently used to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, limiting beliefs, sports and work performance, addictions/compulsions, phobias and stress. It is particularly gentle with trauma, eliminating the risk of flooding, or being overwhelmed by traumatic memories. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is perhaps the most well-known of the EP methods.
DENTISTRY ( HOLISTIC ) Dentistry from a holistic approach regards the mouth as a microcosm of the whole body. The oral structures and the body are seen as a unit. Holistic dentists often incorporate such methods as Homeopathy, biocompatibility testing and nutritional counseling. Most emphasize wellness and preventive care while avoiding (and often recommending the removal of) silver-mercury fillings.
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Energy Field Work is the art and practice of realigning and reattuning the body between the physical and the etheric and auric fields to assist the body’s natural healing processes. Working directly with the energy field in and around the body, energy is channeled through the practitioner and directed into the cells, tissues, and organs of the body. In this way, healing occurs on physical and non-physical levels at the same time. Sessions may or may not involve the physical laying-on of hands.
Fernwood Holistic Health
1921 Boston Post Rd, #3, Westbrook, CT 860-661-5824 info@fernwoodholistichealth.com FernwoodHolisticHealth.com
Business summary/Primary services offered: Fernwood Holistic Health is a multidisciplinary holistic health center, founded by Dana Krete, ND, LAc. Modalities include naturopathic medicine, acupuncture & Chinese medicine, neuroacupuncture, massage, cranio-sacral therapy, APRN Medical Management services, healthcare advocacy services, as well as infrared sauna sessions. How does your holistic business differ from others in your profession? Our primary mission at Fernwood Holistic Health is to provide holistic patient-centered health care, where patients come before profits. We are a professional group of very passionate, caring, and dedicated expert practitioners who believe in treating the whole person, finding and treating the cause, and inspiring our patients to create positive changes in their lives and health. What benefits should clients expect from your services? Our patients and clients can expect a warm, relaxing, comfortable environment to thoroughly explore their health issues and goals. They can expect positive results without side effects, leading to optimal health. How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? Fernwood Holistic Health opened in March 2020, and has rapidly grown despite the difficult circumstances surrounding the pandemic. Dr. Krete started as a single practitioner, and since has added two additional acupuncturists, an additional naturopathic physician, 2 massage therapists, and a holistic APRN with a focus on mental health. Our newest service addition is our very low EMF full spectrum infrared sauna. We hope 2022 brings more opportunities for in person workshops.
Janice Juliano, MSW, LCSW Holistic Psychotherapist The Red Barn in Durham New Earth Therapies and Art Center 352 Main Street, Durham, CT 860-559-6151 TheRedBarnInDurham.com Facebook: Janice Juliano, MSW LCSW
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: I have been in the field of service to children, adults and families since 1976, and have over 36 years of clinical work, post masters in social work , both in Connecticut and New Mexico. I also have almost 30 years as a student of indigenous teachings and presently a student of Bhakti yoga. My focus presently is on women’s issues and women’s spirituality, for women of all ages— helping with life transitions, medical issues, separation and loss, and empowerment. I am the Director of the Vision of The Red Barn and work collaboratively with the holistic practitioners at The Barn. We are about Mind, Body, Spirit, Heart. How does your holistic practice differ from others in your field and what benefits should clients expect from your services? With a vision and dream realized, I am very fortunate to work among seasoned practitioners who offer holistic therapies such as, energy work, therapeutic massage, spiritual services, psychic readings, mediumship, Chinese medicine, meditation, life coaching and aesthetic services. The Barn will be offering Iridology in the near future. The Red Barn also houses the Soulshine Salt Cave and The Borrowed Time Emporium. There are also two other psychotherapists who offer their own specialties. We offer many group gatherings, classes, workshops and Psychic/Vendor Fairs on an ongoing basis. How is your practice evolving in 2022 and What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? In recognition of the New Earth and focus on the Heart, My holistic psychotherapy practice will expand to include other kinds of modalities, including Heart Math services such as mind-heart coherence, also essential oils, and flower essences. I will also be offering SoulCollage® Circles, Medicine Wheel Circles, and offering Cacao Ceremonies.
What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? At Fernwood Holistic Health we know every patient feels how much we care. We create relationships of collaboration and partnership with our patients to support them every step of the way in achieving their health goals. Patients who see more than one practitioner within our practice benefit from an integrative team approach that guides their health and wellness plan. 2022 Natural Living Directory
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glossary E N V I R O N M E N TA L M E D I C I N E Environmental Medicine explores the role of dietary and environmental allergens in health and illness. Factors such as dust, mold, chemicals, and certain foods may cause allergic reactions that can dramatically influence diseases ranging from asthma and hay fever to headaches and depression.
ENZYME THERAPY Enzyme Therapy can be an important first step in restoring health and well-being by helping to remedy digestive problems. Plant and pancreatic enzymes are used in a complementary way to improve digestion and absorption of essential nutrients. Treatment includes enzyme supplements coupled with a healthy diet that features whole foods.
EXCEPTIONAL MARRIAGE MENTORING
preventing artery hardenings. The sulfates found in Epsom salt also assist with flushing out toxins and heavy metals. The use of essential oils in a soaking bath will intensify the cleansing effects for the body and its systems.
GUIDED IMAGERY C R E AT I V E V I S U A L I Z AT I O N Guided Imagery and Creative Visualization involve the effective use of images or symbols to focus the mind on the workings of the body in order to cause real physiological changes. In practice, Creative Imagery is the conscious creation of positive thoughts and images and the communication of them to the body to accomplish a desired outcome. It can be utilized for the relief of pain, the curing of disease, or to affect behavioral change. Imagery can take on many forms. It is a flow of thought involving all five senses. An important part of the visualization process, imagination is the ability to create a mental picture of what is desired and transform circumstances of life.
This experiential, energetic, and expressive approach to couples work was developed by Marcia and Brian Gleason. The goal is to assist couples in using their relationship as a vehicle for fulfilling each person’s potential. Exceptional Marriage Mentoring (EMM) helps couples move from self-protective feeling states to expansive, self-fulfilling emotions that allow each partner to become more fully human. The EMM model invites, in a very structured way, full expression of the passionate self, which includes anger, laughter, longing, fear, sexuality, grief, remorse, empathy, gratitude, compassion and love.
HEALING TOUCH
FELDENKRAIS METHOD
An herb is a plant or plant part valued for its medicinal, savory, or aromatic qualities. Herbal Medicine, by far the oldest form of medicine practiced by mankind, uses natural plants in a wide variety of forms for their therapeutic value. Herb plants produce and contain a variety of chemical substances that act upon the body to strengthen its natural functions without the negative side effects of synthetic drugs. Herbs are prepared for internal and external use in a variety of ways, including teas, tinctures, extracts, oils, ointments, compresses, and poultices.
The Feldenkrais Method is a form of somatic education aimed at achieving mental and physical coordination. It involves gentle movement sequences, focused attention, and awareness of entrenched patterns. Approaches include Awareness Through Movement lessons typically taught in groups, and Functional Integration hands-on personalized care given to an individual by a practitioner. Physics, biomechanics, creative learning, and human development are at the core of this method, which aims to increase ease and range of motion, improve flexibility and coordination, aid in rediscovery of the body’s natural capacity for pleasurable efficient movement, and expand self-awareness.
FENG SHUI Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese art and science of mindfully arranging objects in order to create or facilitate harmonious energy flow (qi) in environments (building placement, office, home, garden…). Energy is tempered or enhanced so as to positively affect one’s relationships, prosperity, and wellness.
F L O ATAT I O N C E N T E R S Floatation centers use up to 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt—a naturally occurring pure mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate—mixed with a warm solution of water in float tanks to produce a high buoyant effect. Soaking in a bath enriched with Epsom salt has been shown to increase magnesium and sulfate levels in the body. Magnesium can help with reducing inflammation, improving muscle and nerve function and 34
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A non-invasive, relaxing and nurturing energy therapy that helps to restore physical, emotional, mental and spiritual balance and support self-healing. A gentle touch is used on or near the fully-clothed client to influence the body’s inner energy centers and exterior energy fields. Healing Touch is used to ease acute and chronic conditions, assist with pain management, encourage deep relaxation and accelerate wound healing.
HERBAL MEDICINE
H O L O T R O P I C B R E AT H W O R K Holotropic Breathwork is a powerful technique of selfexploration that combines breathing, evocative music, and a specific form of bodywork. It includes and integrates the physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. Presented in a two-day workshop by certified facilitators, participants try to access the four “levels” of experience that are available during breathing; sensory, biographical, perinatal, and transpersonal. By accessing buried memories, an individual can relive their own birth experience or traumatic life events, free up “stuck” emotional or viewpoints, or in some cases experience a mystical state of awareness.
Lauri Ingram
696 Amity Road, Unit B-1, Bethany, CT 203-435-5650 Lauri@lauriingram.com LauriIngram.com Practice summary/ Primary services offered: Spiritual counseling and Energy Balancing: Spiritual counseling is reflective listening and inquiry, that helps remind an individual that we are immersed in Spirit and the Divine is always present in every situation, as a constant resource and a mirror to guide us in what needs to be healed or learned. I incorporate many practices and modalities into my work, all to meet my counselee where ever they may be on their journey. What drew you to this profession? My own journey of self-discovery led me to help others find their joy, their purpose and a deeper connection to their own spirituality. How does your work differ from others in your profession? As someone who has worked in corporate IT for over 40 years, and is an ordained interfaith/interspiritual minister, I have been on a journey over the past 10 years to discover my authentic, true nature. I have been where many others find themselves, and am honored to act as a guide for others on this soul journey. What should a client expect from working with you? Working with me is a journey of self-discovery; I believe we all have the answers we seek within. How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? This year I will be exploring incorporating creative arts into my offerings as another way to explore, including art journaling and other practices. As a minister, I continue to offer ceremony services, including marriages, memorial services and other custom events for life events. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? As an ordained interfaith/interspiritual minister, I believe there is much to learn as we journey through life. It begins with openness, curiosity, and deep self-compassion. My commitment is to using my life skills, experience, and training to create safe and sacred space for self-discovery, as I companion others along the way.
Medicine for Living
Dr. Alicia McKelvey 51 Sherman Hill Road, building A, Suite 104 C, Woodbury, CT 203-405-1464 medicine4livingct@gmail.com MedicineforLivingCT.com Practice summary/ Primary services offered: Medicine for Living is an Integrative Medicine practice whose mission is to help clients achieve optimal health and disease prevention. Using powerful genomic tools, we are able to help patients understand aspects of their health and bodies previously unknown to them. What drew you to this profession? I want to focus on prevention and disease reversal. After nearly 20 years as a Thoracic surgeon, I encountered countless patients with life threatening disease. My desire led me to study and become board certified in Integrative Medicine. How does your work differ from others in your profession? Genomics sheds light on what our DNA brings to the table. Medicine for living uses genomic testing to get to that root cause of health issues. This knowledge empowers clients to both better understand and take charge of their health. What should a client expect from working with you? I personally get to know the client, their health concerns and goals. I will order appropriate testing and review results with them. I develop a personalized treatment plan for each client. How is your practice evolving in 2022? Traditional medicine treats disease as it occurs. It is in effect a bandaid system. Frequently there is not enough time to do a deep dive into someone’s health problems. Medicine for Living delivers personalized care addressing both known health problems and health risks previously unknown to the patient. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Dr. McKelvey is dedicating her career moving forward to the prevention of disease for her clients and to working as a team with her client to achieve the best possible health.
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I N T E G R AT I V E M E D I C I N E
H O M E O PAT H Y Homeopathy is a highly systematic therapy that uses small doses of specially prepared plants and minerals to stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms and healing processes in order to cure illness. The word “homeopathy” is taken from the Greek homeos meaning “similar” and pathos meaning “suffering.” Thus, Homeopathy means “to treat with something that produces an effect similar to the suffering.” This “law of similars,” the concept of “like cures like” is the basic principle of Homeopathy. A remedy is individually chosen based on its capacity to cause, if given in overdose, physical and psychological symptoms similar to those a patient is experiencing.
HYDROTHERAPY Hydrotherapy is the use of water, ice, steam, and hot and cold temperatures to maintain and restore health. Treatments include full body immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation, and the application of hot and/or cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective for treating a wide range of conditions and can easily be used in the home as part of a self-care program.
HYPNOTHERAPY Hypnotherapy refers to a range of hypnosis techniques that allow practitioners to bypass the conscious mind and access the subconscious. The altered state that occurs under hypnosis has been compared to a state of deep meditation or transcendence, in which the innate recuperative abilities of the psyche are allowed to flow more freely. The subject can achieve greater clarity regarding their own wants and needs, explore other events or periods of life requiring resolution, or generally develop a more positive attitude. It is often used to help people lose weight or stop smoking, and in the treatment of phobias, stress, and illness.
I N T E G R AT I V E M A N U A L T H E R A P Y ( I M T ) This comprehensive treatment approach views all of the body’s structures and systems in an interrelated manner, addressing anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and energetics to facilitate the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Through manual diagnostics, the practitioner perceives and interprets the body’s subtle rhythms and signals to identify the causes of pain, disease or disability. Interacting with these subtle energies and reflexes, the practitioner facilitates corrective responses from the body to bring about healing. IMT techniques include very gentle forms of deep tissue work, Myofascial Release, Craniosacral Therapy, joint mobilization, lymphatic drainage, and positional release, as well as Guided Imagery, deep relaxation, Biofeedback, Applied Psychosynthesis, Detoxification, energetic healing and functional recovery.
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This holistic approach combines conventional Western medicine with complementary alternative treatments in order to simultaneously treat mind, body and spirit. Geared to the promotion of health and the prevention of illness, it neither rejects conventional medicine nor accepts alternative therapies, without serious evaluation.
INTUITIVE ARTS Intuitive Arts is a general term for various methods of divination, such as numerology, psychic reading, and tarot reading. Individuals may consult practitioners to seek information about the future or insights into personal concerns or the personality. Among the modalities: Numerology emphasizes the significance of numbers derived from the spelling of names, birth dates, and other significant references; psychics may claim various abilities, from finding lost objects and persons to communicating with the spirits of the dead; and tarot readers interpret a deck of cards containing archetypal symbols.
IRIDOLOGY Iridology is the art and science of analyzing the delicate structure of the colored portion of the eye, or the iris. Over 90 specific areas on each iris have been “mapped,” making a total of over 180 zones, which act as a readout gauge to reflect conditions in the corresponding area of the body. Physical weaknesses can be noticeable in the iris long before they would be discernible through blood work or laboratory analysis, thus making Iridology one of a number of tools for preventative selfcare.
KINESIOLOGY / APPLIED KINESIOLOGY Kinesiology is the study of muscles and their movement. Applied Kinesiology uses the relative strength and weakness of selected muscles to indicate whether there is decreased function in any bodily organs or systems, or whether there is an imbalance or restriction in the energy flow. Much of Applied Kinesiology is based on the observed relationships between specific muscles and organs. Testing makes use of Acupuncture meridians and/or interrelationships among muscles, organs, the brain and the body’s energy field. Applied Kinesiology is also used to check the body’s response to a treatment that is being considered.
LIFE / BUSINESS COACH A professional who helps clients identify their personal and/or professional goals and design a plan or institute techniques for achieving them. The life/business coach works with clients to recognize and overcome any obstacles that may interfere with achievement of those goals.
Rachael McNerney Director & Herbalist
Return To The Fire
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: My goal is to teach others to heal themselves holistically, and bring us closer to the bounty of wisdom that nature provides. I provide educational support as you navigate the healing journey because I believe your recovery is fostered by our collective effort. Most of the individuals I work with are burnout workaholics knocked down by fatigue and chronic dis-ease. They are usually high achievers who have been doing everything for everyone else for too long, living outside the capacity of their nervous system.
Business summary/ Primary services offered: Jody brings over thirty years of devotion to his personal healing and training to provide compassion, deep listening and experience to those seeking guidance. Jody’s life and practice has been informed by mentors, Native American spirituality, Buddhism, devotion to his own therapy and guidance from a therapeutic supervisor for over 30 years. The journey of counseling often involves unpacking false beliefs and old patterns while building internal awareness and empowerment to more successfully navigate; relationships, life transitions, and the challenges of being human – Soul Work.
World Canopy LLC 203-553-9505 info@worldcanopy.com WorldCanopy.com Facebook: @worldcanopyllc Instagram: @worldcanopy
What drew you to this profession? I began studying herbalism in 2018 to learn how to heal myself naturally when conventional medicine couldn’t give me clarity. How does your work differ from others in your profession? My educational background is well rounded, drawing upon Hawaiian, Western and Eastern Herbal traditions. I specialize in plant-based living and detoxification for post-viral recovery and adrenal dysfunction. What should a client expect from working with you? As an empathetic and intuitive person, I appreciate discussing your unique health challenges and goals. It is an honor to provide custom solutions to enhance your wellbeing. Your wellness protocol will include herbal, nutritional, and lifestyle recommendations to help you move beyond emotional and physical distress. How is your practice evolving in 2022? We are launching group gatherings for practitioners and workshops for the community. Join our newsletter at WorldCanopy.com for updates! What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? I help you move towards a more energized, balanced, and spiritually aligned self by healing with plants. If you are seeking assistance, I offer a Free Meet & Greet Call to discuss your goals and see if working together would be a good fit. You may schedule your call at WorldCanopy.com.
Jody Grose 320 Kent Road New Milford, CT 203-731-7755 healingbear11@gmail.com Returntothefire.com
How does your work differ from others in your profession? Jody’s practice is the confluence of his life experiences, training in counseling and group facilitation, while incorporating Native American and Buddhist philosophies. What should a client expect from working with you? Each program is designed with the invitation to deepen self-awareness while identifying old triggers and patterns, while also fostering full self-expression. How is your business evolving in 2022? This year’s offerings include: one on one counseling, men’s and couples’ weekend workshops, father and daughter bonding weekend, and canoe trips to the Adirondacks. These trips offer participants time in nature, unencumbered by the distractions of daily life, which allows for the quiet of nature and the intention of community to guide our experience. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? This ‘Being Human’ provides endless challenges and opportunities to become who you are meant to be. Jody’s experience has revealed, when with a guide, mentor, or therapist, challenges have been transformed into opportunities to create meaning into his own life.
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MEDIUMSHIP
MACROBIOTICS Macrobiotics is an Eastern philosophy that is perhaps best known in the West through its dietary principles. Macrobiotic theory begins with the realization that there is a natural order to all things and we can achieve a fuller sense of balance, both within ourselves and with the world around us, by synchronizing our eating habits with the cycles of nature. Low-fat and high-fiber foods, whole grains, vegetables, sea vegetables, and seeds cooked in accordance with macrobiotic principles are stressed.
MAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY Electromagnetic energy and the human body have a valid and important interrelationship. Magnetic Field Therapy can be used in both diagnosing and treating physical and emotional disorders. This process has been recognized to relieve symptoms and may, in some cases, retard the cycle of new disease. Magnets and electromagnetic therapy devices are now being used to eliminate pain, facilitate the healing of broken bones, and counter the effects of stress.
M A N U A L LY M P H AT I C D R A I N A G E A gentle, non-invasive, rhythmical whole-body massage aimed at stimulating the lymphatic system to carry away excess fluid in the loose connective tissue, which helps remove toxins. Blockage or damage within the system may lead to conditions like edema, acne, inflammation, arthritis and sinusitis. The therapy stimulates one of the body’s natural cleansing systems to help bring tissues to a healthier state.
MASSAGE THERAPY A general term for the manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage Therapy incorporates various disciplines and involves kneading, rubbing, brushing and/or tapping the skin, muscles and connective tissues. Its goal is to increase circulation and detoxification in order to reduce physical and emotional stress and increase overall wellness.
M E D I TAT I O N Meditation is a practice of concentrated focus/contemplation used to increase awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance personal and spiritual growth. There are many different types of Meditation practiced (e.g.: Buddhist, Mindfulness, Transcendental, Walking), which include a variety of techniques for achieving harmony such as imagery, mantras, observation/awareness and deep breathing. Some meditators seek a mystical sense of oneness with a higher power or the universe, while others utilize it to gain serenity, alleviate anxiety or high blood pressure, or heighten focus, creativity and/or self-awareness. Research has shown that Meditation can contribute to an individual’s psychological and physiological well-being.
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A Medium professes to sense and communicate with spiritual entities, conveying messages from those who are no longer incarnate to people in the physical world. Readings focus on those evidential messages, which are said to be delivered for one’s “highest good.”
MIDWIFE A birth attendant who assists a woman through the prenatal, labor, birth and postpartum stages of pregnancy. The mother is encouraged to be involved and to feel in control of her birthing experience. Midwives are knowledgeable about normal pregnancy, labor, birth and pain relief options. They respect the process of birth as an innate and familiar process. Certified nurse-midwives are registered nurses who have received advanced training and passed a national certification exam. Nurse-midwives collaborate with physicians as needed, especially when problems arise during pregnancy. (Also see Doula).
M I N D / B O DY M E D I C I N E The field of behavioral medicine which recognizes the relationship between the mind and body, the body’s innate ability to heal and the partnership between the patient and healer in restoring health. It is strongly research-based and encompasses the field of Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI). Mind/Body Medicine is used for those conditions, which may be exacerbated by the patient’s emotional stress, such as heart disease, cancer, preparation for medical procedures, autoimmune diseases, pain management, asthma, diabetes, gastrointestinal upsets (such as IBS), trauma and insomnia. Treatment commonly includes a blend of Hypnosis, Guided Imagery, Biofeedback and other methods.
MONTESSORI SCHOOL The Montessori method of early childhood education (age range 2.5 to 6 years) was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, who served in special education. Montessori programs utilize a child-centered approach, based on scientific observations of children from birth to adulthood. The teacher, child and environment create a learning triangle where students are encouraged to learn at their own unique stages of development and cultivate their natural abilities through practical play. Children learn through discovery rather than traditional direct instruction. It is an approach that values the human spirit and the development of the whole child—physical, social, emotional and cognitive. Components necessary for a program to be considered authentically Montessori include multiage groupings that foster peer learning, uninterrupted blocks of work time and guided choice of work activity.
Salt of the Earth Therapeutic Spa
Owner: Sue Martovich 787 Main Street, Woodbury, CT 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com
Business summary/ Primary services offered: Salt of the Earth offers a list of heavenly healing modalities and therapies. The salt in the air, the higher concentration of healthy ions in our treatment rooms, our “self-care beds, and the various frequencies that you will find throughout, aid and support any session with additional healing benefits. How does your holistic business differ from others in your profession? Our EMT treatments are a “Whole-istic” approach to addressing all aspects of you, mind body and soul. There are no cookie cutter services offered at Salt of the Earth. Each session is catered to your specific needs, combining the skills of our practitioners and our therapeutic Salt Rooms to offer a dynamic combo treatment unique to our facility. What benefits should clients expect from your services and/or products? Our treatments touch upon each part of self to guide you back to a centered state of being. How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? New for 2022, introducing CEP, our Consciousness Evolutionary Process Creating customized programs specifically designed with your health and well being as the number one priority: •Discover yourself in a new way. •Heart Opening, •Empowering •Spiritually Fulfilling •Grounding What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We have adapted our treatments to be more relevant with today’s challenges.
Solutions for Wellness Incorporated Owner: Julie Thackeray Located within Kos Chiropractic Center 2351 Boston Post Road, Suite 203 Guilford, CT 203-215-6087 julie@solutionsforwellnessinc.com SolutionsforWellnessInc.com
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: The services offered are hand/foot reflexology, Energy medicine/healing, Acu-Wellness following the NADA 5 Point Protocol, Hypnosis, Essential oils. What drew you to this profession? I was introduced to reflexology as part of my treatment for a work related neck/back injury and found it gave me the best relief from discomfort as well as deep relaxation while all traditional medicine could offer was pharmaceuticals. How does your holistic practice differ from others in your profession? I teach my clients techniques they can use on their own at home in between sessions that empower and assist them on their healing journey. What should a client expect from working with you? My commitment to empowering them by providing tools/techniques for them to add to their self-care health and wellness toolbox that can assist them in discovering the mind-body connection and improved health! How is your practice evolving in 2022? Distance healing sessions are now available in addition to workshops that are being planned for the spring/summer. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The journey toward wellness is not a one size fits all approach—It is multifaceted and multidimensional. Unique and individualized for each client so as to meet them where they are at in the present moment to address their specific needs.
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glossary
NEURO-LINGUISTIC PROGRAMMING ( NLP )
MUSIC THERAPY Music therapy is an established healthcare profession available for all ages in multiple settings. It is utilized by trained professionals who integrate music interventions in therapy sessions to help address, restore, and/or enhance physical, psychological and spiritual well-being. No musical ability is needed for clients to benefit.
M YO FA S C I A L R E L E A S E ( M F R ) This holistic form of bodywork is used for reducing pain, improving movement and function, and restoring emotional tranquility. MFR is labeled holistic because it involves treating the whole body as a connected organism, recognizing that symptoms in one place may be caused by tight connective tissue elsewhere. This tightness places pressure on pain sensitive structures like muscles, nerves, bones, joints, blood vessels or organs. Such ischemic pressure results in symptoms like pain, tingling, stiffness, and lethargy. MFR is most commonly practiced by licensed Physical Therapists and Massage Therapists who have taken specialized training in this technique. The goal of treatment is to restore balance and alignment to the human structure, and enhance optimum flow throughout the entire system.
N A M B U D R I PA D ’ S A L L E R G Y E L I M I N AT I O N T E C H N I Q U E S ( N A E T ) A non-invasive, drug free, natural modality that tests for and eliminates allergies. NAET uses a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from Acupuncture, Acupressure, Allopathy, Chiropractic, Kinesiology and Nutritional Medicine. One allergen is treated at a time.
N AT U R O PAT H I C M E D I C I N E Naturopathy is a comprehensive and eclectic system that incorporates the use of a broad range of natural substances and natural means to promote health. Naturopathic Doctors work in harmony with the body’s natural healing abilities. Training may include the study of specific approaches such as Massage, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Counseling, Applied Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, minor surgery and basic Obstetrics for assistance at natural childbirth.
NETWORK CHIROPRACTIC Network Chiropractic is a form of chiropractic that views the spine as a powerful “switchboard of consciousness.” The method is based on the belief that spinal adjustment can serve to unify the physical, emotional, and mental body with a universal intelligence or consciousness.
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NLP is a systematic approach to changing limiting patterns of thought, behavior and language. In conversation, practitioners observe the client’s language, eye movements, posture, breathing, and gestures in order to detect and then help change unconscious patterns linked to the client’s emotional state.
NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING Embracing a wide range of approaches, nutrition-based complementary therapies seek to alleviate physical and psychological disorders through dietary modification and food supplements, and involving either macronutrients or micronutrients. Macronutrients are carbohydrates, fats, proteins and fiber. Micronutrients are vitamins, minerals, and trace elements that cannot be manufactured in the body. Nutritional therapy often uses dietary or food supplements, which may include tablets, capsules, powders or liquids.
ORTHOMOLECULAR MEDICINE Employing vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to create nutritional content and balance in the body, Orthomolecular Medicine targets a wide range of conditions, including depression, hypertension, schizophrenia, cancer, and other mental and physiological disorders.
O S T E O PAT H I C P H YS I C I A N S Osteopathic Physicians are trained to help the body stimulate and restore its own immune system naturally. Osteopathy utilizes generally accepted physical, pharmacological, and surgical methods of diagnosis and therapy, with strong emphasis on body mechanics and manipulative methods to detect and correct faulty structure and function. Doctors of Osteopathy (DO’s) offer a hands-on approach to the diagnosis and treatment of selected ailments involving bones, muscles, tendons, tissues, and the spinal column through the use of palpation, manipulation, and physical therapy.
O X YG E N T H E R A P I E S Oxygen Therapies alter the body’s chemistry to help overcome disease, promote repair, and improve overall function. These therapies are effective in treating a wide variety of conditions, including infections, circulatory problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, allergies, cancer, and multiple sclerosis. The major types of Oxygen Therapy used to treat disease are Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Ozone Therapy, and Hydrogen Peroxide Therapy.
PA S T L I F E / R E G R E S S I O N T H E R A P I E S Past Life and Regression Therapies operate on the assumption that many physical, mental, and emotional problems are extensions of unresolved problems from the past — whether from childhood traumas or experiences in previous lifetimes. The practitioner uses Hypnosis (or altered states of consciousness) and relaxation techniques to access the source of this “unfinished business,” and helps clients to analyze, integrate, and release past traumas that are interfering with their current lives.
Sustainable Landscape Garden Design
Jim Doenges Branford, CT 203-836-7640 JimDoenges@sustainablelandscapegardendesign.com SustainableLandscapeGardenDesign.com Business summary/ Primary services offered: Jim has a deep passion for the details and brings decades of hands-on experience to every garden composition. He strongly believes in the principles of sustainability and in the commitment to managing each property in a way that maintains environmental integrity. How does your business differ from others in your field? Jim believes garden design is living art and treats the design as an artistic composition. He enjoys the result of seeing end users embrace all of their senses when interacting with the results of the composition. What benefits should customers/clients expect from your services? Extraordinary landscapes, exceptional service, and lasting relationships. How is your business evolving in 2022? Jim’s goal is to continue to enlighten people to the benefits of being sustainable. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Jim specializes in landscape design and embraces the philosophy of utilizing “Color, Balance, Harmony, Serenity, and Peace through Quality Horticulture.”
The Blue Buddha Integrative Massage
Angela Amendola North Haven, CT 203-435-5925 Angela@TheBlueBuddha.com TheBlueBuddha.com
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: The Blue Buddha – Integrative Massage offers therapeutic massage exclusively for women. What drew you to this profession? I was drawn to massage through a desire to heal myself and support women in their own healing process by addressing both the body and the mind through therapeutic touch. How does your holistic practice differ from others in your profession? I experience a deep satisfaction and joy through my work and service to women. A healing intention permeates each client session. It is my intention to heal the world one women at a time. What should a client expect from working with you? My intention is for each woman to feel nurtured and completely attended to. I care deeply about the massage each client receives and that the foundation for physical, emotional, and psychological healing is always present. How is your practice evolving in 2022? The Blue Buddha has a beautiful new space focused solely on supporting the power and sacredness of the feminine. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? The last two years have pulled and stretched all of us. If you are expanding or contracting, grieving, or transforming, feeling joy, stress, or anxiety, experiencing an ending, or processing a new beginning, massage can help. Massage is a beautiful modality to help you heal, process, be embodied, connected, and aligned with yourself and your world.
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R E B I R T H I N G B R E AT H W O R K
A Personal Fitness Trainer is a certified professional who designs fitness programs for individuals desiring one-on-one training. Trainers offer their services in the privacy of ones home or at various locations (club, office, etc.).
Also known as Conscious Connected Breathing (or by some practitioners as Vivation), Rebirthing is a means to access and release unresolved emotions. The technique uses conscious, steady, rhythmic breathing without pausing between inhaling and exhaling. Guided by a professional Rebirther, clients re-experience past memories — including birth — and let go of emotional tension long stored in the body.
P H YS I C A L T H E R A P Y
RECONNECTIVE HEALING
Evaluates difficulties with mobility or function and focuses on rehabilitation through a restorative treatment program and instruction on how to make efficient use of the body in daily activities. Physical Therapists use massage, exercise, electrical stimulation, ultrasound and other means to help the patient regain functional movement.
Utilizes light and dimensional frequencies to reduce stress, foster relaxation, and enable holistic healing. Practitioners use their hands to focus a flow of energy into the client’s aura/ energy field. This stimulates meridians and DNA strands, causing a shift that releases old patterns and reconnects clients to their essence and universal energy.
P I L AT E S
REFLEXOLOGY
A structured system of small isolated movements that demands powerful focus on feeling every nuance of muscle action while working out on floor mats or machines. Emphasizes development of the torso’s abdominal power center, or core. More gentle than conventional exercises, Pilates, like Yoga, yields long, lean, flexible muscles whose gracefully balanced movements readily translate into everyday activities like walking, sitting and bending. Can help in overcoming injuries.
A natural healing art based upon the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands that correspond to different parts of the body. Correctly stimulating and applying pressure to the feet or hands increases circulation and promotes specifically designated bodily and muscular functions in those corresponding areas.
PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER
REIKI
Polarity Therapy asserts that energy fields exist everywhere in nature and that the free flow and balance of this universal energy in the human body is the underlying foundation of good health. Practitioners use gentle touch and guidance to help clients balance their energy flow, thus supporting a return to health. The practitioner’s hands do not impart energy, but redirect the flow of the receiver’s own energy in order to recharge and achieve balance.
Reiki, meaning “universal life-force energy” is a method of activating and balancing the life-force present in all living things. Reiki practitioners use light hand placements to channel healing energies to organs and glands or to align the chakras (energy centers). There are techniques for emotional and mental distress, chronic and acute physical problems, and for achieving spiritual focus and clarity. Reiki is increasingly being integrated into the work of Chiropractors, Massage Therapists, Nurses, and others for whom the use of touch is essential or appropriate.
PRANIC HEALING
ROLFING
Pranic healing is an ancient science and art of healing that utilizes prana or ki or life energy to heal the whole physical body. It also involves the manipulation of ki and bioplasmic matter of the patient’s body. Prana is the Sanskrit word for “Life-force energy”— also referred to as Chi, Qi, Ki, or Ruach.
Rolfing is a deep tissue massage technique. It re-organizes and improves alignment through connective tissue manipulation.
POLARITY THERAPY
Q I G O N G A N D TA I C H I Qigong and Tai chi combine movement, meditation and breath regulation to enhance the flow of vital energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) in the body , improve circulation and enhance immune function. Qigong traces its roots to traditional Chinese medicine. Tai chi was originally a self-defense martial art descended from Qigong and employed to promote inner peace and calm.
S A LT H E A L I N G T H E R A P Y Himalayan rock salt has been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. Salt caves offer healing benefits of a rock salt rich in trace elements and minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, iodine, bromine, copper, selenium and iron. Salt caves combine speleotherapy—the use of salt cave and mine microclimates to treat diseases—and halotherapy, which utilizes a salt vaporizer to push dry aerosol salt vapor into the air to help with various respiratory and skin issues, allergies and other conditions.
SHAMANISM Shamanism is an ancient healing tradition that dates back 40,000 years or more. It is based on the belief that all healing includes the spiritual dimension. Shamanic healing usually
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Vis Wellness Center
Wildwood Granola
Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc 1845 Silas Deane Hwy Rocky Hill, CT & Virtual Visits 234-2-ACU-DOC info@drnicoleklughers.com DrNicoleKlughers.com
Tamara Ketchian 380 Wildwood Drive, Orange, CT 203-913-6469 wildwoodgranola@yahoo.com WildwoodGranola.com FB & Instagram: @wildwoodgranola
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: As a licensed naturopathic physician, acupuncture specialist, former pharmacist, and community educator, I offer all-natural solutions to restore optimal health and help people reclaim a life of energy, balance, and joy. By listening closely to their story and utilizing detailed testing, I work with individuals to identify and address the root cause of their health concerns. In other words, I serve as a “health detective” who will thoroughly “investigate” to find the culprit of any symptoms.
Business summary/ Primary services offered: Small batch gluten free vegan granola made with all natural ingredients and sweetened with CT maple syrup. No added sugars! You can find Wildwood Granola at farmer’s markets, events and festivals or online for local pick up or delivery.
What drew you to this profession? While formerly working as a pharmacist, I observed the limitations of conventional medicine in its ability to offer long-term, healing solutions. Often times patients could only take a medication for so long before another health condition, complication or side effect developed. I knew there had to be a better way for me to provide “health” care to my community and I realized that many people weren’t satisfied with the idea of relying on drugs for the rest of their lives. What should a patient expect from working with you? People often come to me after they’ve visited many other doctors for their health concerns yet still have trouble finding answers and effective treatments. Individuals I work with can expect to become a healer of their own body and mind and feel empowered to take charge of their health. I serve as a guide, teacher and supporter and dedicate 60 to 90 minutes per appointment.
How does your holistic business differ from others in your profession? All my granola flavors are gluten free making them accessible to anyone with gluten allergies. I also do not add any extra sugar, other than the maple syrup which is a low glycemic vegan sweetener. I also have a nut free version for granola lovers who can’t have nuts as well as a grain free sugar free version with no oats or maple syrup for anyone that is keto/diabetic/whole 30. What benefits should clients expect from your products/services? Granola is a healthy breakfast, snack, topping on yogurt or ice cream and should be made with healthy ingredients. That is what you get with Wildwood Granola, no extra sugar or chemicals. I also offer local delivery or pickup and can coordinate if you are out of my delivery range to get you your granola! How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? I am looking to grow my business into different markets as well as move from a cottage food business into a commercial one. Currently you can find me at farmer’s markets, events and festivals. With a commercial license you will hopefully be able to find Wildwood Granola at your local store! I am also hoping to add a line of trail mixes and granola bars. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Wildwood Granola is a small woman owned business and my customers are my heroes so I am very customer focused. I love building a relationship with repeat customers and appreciate all the support given to my small business this past year.
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glossary
TRADITIONAL THAI THERAPY
Sound Healing involves the use of vocal and instrumental tones, generated internally or externally. When sounds are produced with healing intent they can create sympathetic resonance in the physical and energy bodies. Sound healing can bring discordant energy into balance and harmony.
Traditional Thai Therapy (also known as “Thai yoga massage”) is an ancient healing system that integrates reflexology, acupressure, conscious breathing and assisted yoga postures with Indian Ayurvedic principles—the combination of which relieves tension, relaxes the mind & body, and provides lasting benefits to the overall health & well-being of the receiver. It has been referred to by many as “yoga for lazy people” because rather than rubbing on muscles, the body is compressed and gently stretched. A traditional session typically lasts two hours in duration and includes rhythmic pressing and stretching of the entire body. Clients wear comfortable clothing while receiving on a floor mat during the session, and no oils or lotions are used.
SPIRITUAL HEALING / COUNSELING
TRAGERWORK
Spiritual Healing/Counseling comes in two forms. In one, the healer uses thought or touch to align their spiritual essence with the spirit of the client. The healer works to either balance the spiritual field or shift the perceptual base of the client to create harmony between mind and body and draw the client into the active presence of a Divine Healing Force. In the other, the healer transforms healing energy into a vibrational frequency that the client can receive and comfortably assimilate, gently reminding the person’s intuitive core of its inherent healing ability and imparting a vision of health. Spiritual Healers often work within a particular spiritual tradition, seek guidance from “spirit helpers,” and rely on some form of prayer or meditation.
Tragerwork uses passive movement to encourage progressive, generalized release of deep body tension. The client receives a blend of rhythmic, rocking movements, elongations, and gentle compressions so body and mind relax into new and freer movement patterns. Tragerwork helps with stress and specific pain, such as sciatica, back, neck and shoulder pain, and TMJ. It can improve results in Physical Therapy, Psychotherapy, athletic and artistic training, and treatment of disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, Post-polio Syndrome, and Multiple Sclerosis.
involves induction into an altered state of consciousness and journeying into the spirit world to regain personal power and access the guidance of nature and of teachers. This approach may be taken literally or employed symbolically.
SOUND HEALING
S U S TA I N A B L E L A N D S C A P I N G Sustainable landscaping is a way to beautify your landscape while allowing nature do the heavy lifting. It is environmentally responsible and reduces time, effort and resources needed for maintenance. Designed to thrive in local temperatures, rainfall and weather patterns, a good sustainable landscape works with nature—not against it. Sustainable landscapes are cost effective, use native plants and trees with their own defenses against pests and require less watering.
T R A N S C E N D E N TA L M E D I TAT I O N Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple, effortless technique of meditation practiced 20 minutes twice each day while sitting comfortably with the eyes closed. Through the use of a mantra, TM allows the mind to settle inward beyond thought to experience the source of thought-pure awareness, the most silent and peaceful level of consciousness. In this state of restful alertness, the brain functions with significantly greater coherence while the body gains deep rest.
YO G A
Tantra has emerged as a modern spiritual path of embodied consciousness, with roots in ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions. It views the “spiritual” as being directly present within the “physical” and respects sensory experience as a vehicle for accessing higher states of awareness. Tantra practices balance the chakras (energy centers) and can contribute to a sense of presence, intimacy and fulfillment in all aspects of living.
Yoga is the practical application of the ancient Indian Vedic teachings. The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj which means “union” or “to join,” and refers to the joining of man’s physical, mental, and spiritual elements. In Yoga, the goal of good health is accomplished through a combination of techniques including exercises called “asanas” or postures, controlled breathing, relaxation, meditation, and diet and nutrition. Although Yoga is not meant to cure specific diseases or ailments directly, it has been found effective in treating many problems.
THERMAL IMAGING
Z E N S H I AT S U
A diagnostic technique that uses an infrared camera to measure temperature variations on the surface of the body, producing images that reveal sites of inflammation and abnormal tissue growth. Inflammation is recognized as the earliest stage of nearly all major health challenges.
Zen Shiatsu, sometimes referred to as “Acupuncture without needles,” uses gentle but firm finger and palm pressure to activate the body’s energetic channels and acupoints to bring the body back into balance and harmony on the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual levels. Clients remain fully clothed and receive treatment in a relaxing, comfortable and supportive environment.
TA N T R A
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New Haven/Middlesex
NaturalNewHaven.com
Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling Center, LLC 670 Main Street South, Suite B2 Woodbury, CT 203-263-3175 info@wolfspiritwellness.org WolfSpiritWellness.org
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: Wolf Spirit Wellness and Counseling offers both traditional and alternative mental health counseling for individuals, families, couples, and groups. How does your holistic business differ from others in your profession? We specialize in trauma (PTSD, complex trauma, and family trauma) from a neurobiological and somatic perspective. We utilize alternative healing methods such as Reiki, meditation and hypnosis in our traditional sessions, so our clients get the maximum benefit of the mind, body, and spirit connection. What benefits should clients expect from your services? We are Mind, Body and Spirit connected and collaborate with MD’s, APRN’s, and BCBA’s to ensure our clients and their families have a coordination of care that reflects a holistic and traditional (where warranted) perspective. We feel this is the optimal way for our clients to achieve successful healing while learning to navigate their world in the healthiest manner. How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? We are adding Conscious Parenting and have begun working on an Autism program for adults on the spectrum. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? We are providing telehealth, in office, and in-home therapy for individuals, couples, and families. We take most commercial insurance, Husky/Medicaid and will work on a sliding scale with clients who have no insurance. The Wolf Spirit Family is ready to assist you on your journey towards your own mind, body, and spirit connection.
ZenZu Animal Communication & Energy
Mary Albanese Clinton, CT 203-589-0930 mary@zenzuac.com ZenZuac.com
Practice summary/ Primary services offered: Mary Albanese, ZenZu Animal Communication & Energy Work, offers clients the opportunity to deepen connection with their animal companions. Working intuitively in person or remotely with domestic & exotic animals, she assists with behavioral issues, health & wellness concerns, aids with lost animal location, supports animals in transition, & facilitates reconnection with animals who are already across the Rainbow Bridge. What drew you to this profession? This work intrigues me because I’m able to help animals, long thought a “silent” species, express themselves and us humans to understand them better. How does your work differ from others in your profession? I honor each animal’s individuality & tailor each session to their specific needs based on what they share with me. I choose supportive energy modalities that are optimum for each client’s well-being. I’m part of your animal’s care team. I ally with your medical professional, behaviorist, tracker, trainer, search and rescue team, nutritionist, & you & your family, as needed. I’m formally trained, not self-taught or someone who’s branching out and “doing animals.” I studied extensively with one of the world’s top communicators and have been accredited. What should a client expect from working with you? During a session with me, a pet parent/caregiver will gain the insight they seek from their animal companion. It may not come packaged in a way that’s expected, but their relationship will be forever changed. How is your holistic business evolving in 2022? I’m adding more group classes, workshops, and events. In addition, I’ve begun offering private learning opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing this path. What is most important for Natural Awakenings’ readers to know? Many times people are shocked by the information I receive during a session, but honestly, I don’t consider myself special. All of us have this ability, it’s simply quieting our minds long enough to hear our intuitive voice. 2022 Natural Living Directory
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natural living directory ANIMAL COMMUNICATION & ENERGY WORK ZENZU ANIMAL COMMUNICATION & ENERGY WORK Mary Albanese 203-589-0930 mary@zenzuac.com ZenZuac.com
Mary Albanese, ZenZu Animal Communication & Energy Work, works intuitively, either in person or remotely, with domestic and exotic animals offering insight into behavioral issues, health and wellness concerns, assisting with lost animal location, supporting animals in transition, and facilitating reconnection with animals who are already across the Rainbow Bridge. See Profile on page 45.
CHINESE MEDICINE CHI FOR HEALING
Erik Harris The Red Barn in Durham 352 Main St. Durham, CT 860-593-8397 erik@chiforhealing.com ChiForHealing.com Ch i f or h ealin g in teg r ates Chinese medicine with holistic healing practices to provide a multi-faceted program to take back your health. Erik specializes in helping people suffering from chronic pain and illness to find and treat the root cause of dis-ease. He offers virtual consultations for Chinese herbs, Tong Ren therapy, Holistic Health Coaching, Emotional support with EFT, private Qi gong and Meditation instruction. See Profile on page 27.
COUNSELING & WORKSHOPS APPLIED KINESIOLOGY KC CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS Kevin Healy, DC 17 Woodland Road, Madison, CT 203-245-9317 KevinHealy@sbcglobal.net DrHealMe.com
Applied Kinesiology i s a n e u r o logical evaluation to find and treat dysfunction. Different because it addresses causes instead of chasing pains, Dr. Healy tests if a therapy alleviates dysfunction, finding immediate answers as to which provides the most improvement. Chiropractic, craniosacral, myofascial and acupressure are among the therapies Dr. Healy uses. Generally, no single cure exists as disease and dysfunction typically involve multiple areas of the body. The goal of any therapy—physical, chemical, or emotional—is to improve function; a combination of therapies typically yields the best results. See ad on page 7.
HEART OF THE MATTER COUNSELING & WORKSHOPS Jody Grose 203-731-7755 healingbear11@gmail.com Returntothefire.com
Counseling is a collaborative process where the transitions, challenges and traumas of life are viewed as a gateway into a more authentic life. With guidance to reframe their personal stories, my clients are empowered to free themselves from ineffective patterns and make significant personal growth. Call, text or email now for free consultation: 203-731-7755, healingbear11@gmail.com or visit Returntothefire.com. Workshops this summer: Men’s, couples, Father & Daughters, Adirondack canoe trips. See Profile on page 37.
ENERGY HEALING & SPIRITUAL MENTORSHIP AUTUMN SAGE LLC
Stephanie Rosally-Kaplan The Red Barn in Durham New Earth Therapies and Art Center 352 Main Street, Durham, CT 914-330-1474 rosallykaplan@gmail.com Facebook.com/Autumnsage11 Reiki Master/Teacher, Sound Healing, Shamanic Healing, UWT Gemstone/Crystal Healing, MoonologerTM, Certified Soul Coaching ® Oracle Card Reader, Mediumship, Tarot Card Reader, Biomat Healing, House Blessings/Clearings.
FEEL YOUR LIGHT
Katie Cavenagh The Red Barn in Durham New Earth Therapies and Art Center 352 Main Street, Durham, CT 860-655-5527 Katie@FeelYourLight.com FeelYourLight.com Facebook.com/Igniteyourawareness Services offered: Quantum Shifting/Energy Healing, Sound Healing, Oracle Card Readings, Spiritual Guidance & Mentorship, Spiritual Business Coaching and Copywriting.
DOULAS BIRTH PARTNERS DOULAS OF CONNECTICUT 203-718-6512 Info@birthpartnersdoulas.com BirthPartnersDoulas.com
Not Just doulas … Birth Partners! Proudly serving clients for over 30 years, providing quality birth and postpartum doula care. Contact us any time for more information.
“No matter how chaotic it is, wildflowers will still spring up in the middle of nowhere.”
~Sheryl Crow
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natural living directory
HERBALISM WORLD CANOPY LLC
FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION COACH EDGE TO HEALTH
Renee Edge Functional Nutrition Coach 860-681-3427 EdgeToHealth.com Struggling with your child’s behavior? Worried medication or therapy are the only solution? I help parents make changes to their child’s diet and food choices to bring about healing in their body and brain to promote behavior change. Healing is possible with what you put in your grocery cart!
Rachael McNerney Director and Herbalist 203-533-9505 info@worldcanopy.com WorldCanopy.com
World Canopy produces educational workshops connecting communities through the exchange of skills and ideas. We believe that you are empowered to heal in creative ways with the support of community and nature. We invite healers and community members to take part in gatherings that encourage you to imagine, create and explore. Our upcoming offerings focus on sharing the wisdom of wellness. Healers and those needing healing unite to learn and teach holistic techniques for vibrant health and a thriving community. See Profile on page 37.
Tamara Ketchian/Owner 380 Wildwood Drive, Orange, CT 203-913-6469 wildwoodgranola@yahoo.com WildwoodGranola.com FB and Instagram: @wildwoodgranola Wildwood Granola is a woman owned gluten free vegan granola business sweetened with CT maple syrup, no added sugars. I now have 10 flavors, but I am aways adding more so there is something for everyone! I also make a nut-free version for the granola lovers who can’t have nuts as well as a grain free sugar free version for anyone that is diabetic/keto/whole 30. You can find Wildwood Granola at farmer’s markets, fairs and festivals or you can order online! For pick up or local delivery. See Profile on page 43.
WILLOWBROOK HEALTH CENTER
4 Willowbrook Road, Cromwell, CT 860-840-7337 FB & Instagram: @WillowbrookHealthCT
Willowbrook Health Center is a holistic wellness center in Cromwell Connecticut that seeks to get to the root of health matters. It is your one stop shop for wellness with naturopathic medicine, chiropractic, nutrition, acupuncture, essential oil and energyhealing health services. Call 860-840-7337 or visit us on social media at WillowbrookHealthCT for more information.
HOLISTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY WILDHEART ECOTHERAPY
HEALTHY EATING WILDWOOD GRANOLA
HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER
HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER FERNWOOD HOLISTIC HEALTH
1921 Boston Post Road, #3, Westbrook, CT 860-661-5824 info@fernwoodholistichealth.com FernwoodHolisticHealth.com Fernwood Holistic Health is a muldisciplinary, patient-centered, holistic health center,founded by Dana Krete, ND, L Ac. Fernwood provides the highest standard of advanced medicine based on science, research and proven traditional methods. Modalities include naturopathic medicine, acupuncture & Chinese medicine, neuro-acupuncture, therapeutic massage, cranio-sacral therapy, APRN Medical Management services, healthcare advocacy services, as well as infrared sauna sessions. See Profile on page 33.
Justin Pegnataro, LPC 3496 Whitney Avenue, Suite 202 Hamden, CT 203-859-1953 Justin@justinwildheart.com JustinWildheart.com Justin is dedicated to helping people live vibrant lives filled with connection and purpose. He provides traditional psychotherapy and also ecotherapy sessions in indoor or outdoor settings. Justin works with adults and older teens in discovering who they are and in finding their place in life.
LIFE TRANSFORMATION COACH CHANNELING YOUR WISDOM COACHING
Lynda Mettler, ACC Life Transformation Coach Reiki Master Milford, CT 203-623-6066 Lynda@YourWisdomCoaching.com YourWisdomCoaching.com
coming in the april issue
Sustainable Living
Combat anxiousness and overwhelm by embarking on a healing journey to discover your confidence, courage and selfcompassion. Transformation coaching with IFS “parts work” will help you get out of your head and into your life.
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natural living directory MASSAGE THERAPIST A MOMENT IN TIME MASSAGE, LLC Jill Andrzejewski LMT #9900, RMT & Psychic 3490 Whitney Avenue, Suite 205 Hamden, CT 203-909-1108 Jillamomentintimemassage@gmail.com AMomentInTimeMassage.org
I use a holistic approach to treat my clients—We work as a team, setting goals to move forward to get you where you wish to be physically, mentally and spiritually. My intention is to empower people to empower themselves. I am an advocate for gentle stretching, crystals and breath work to maintain a feeling of being grounded and calm. Services available: massage, 30-minute sessions for chronic pain management, Reiki, chakra balancing, angel tarot, oracle card readings, couples Reiki, foot baths with hand made all natural herbal ingredients, group events and classes. A Moment In Time Treasures items available for purchase. Sessions available by appointment only.
MASSAGE FOR WOMEN
April Beaman Main Office: 11 Melrose Dr. Farmington, CT Satellite Office: 212 New London Turnpike Glastonbury, CT 860-415-1150 info@ctthermography.com CTThermography.com CT Thermography specializes in medical thermal imaging, also known as thermography. Thermography is the use and study of thermograms for detecting and measuring variations of heat emitted from the surface of the body. A thermogram is produced by a highly sensitive, infrared camera that accurately maps temperature variations which are then analyzed by Board Certified physicians known as thermologists. Thermography screenings are effective to assess and monitor whole body health and can aid in the detection of inflammation, disease processes and cancer. Furthermore, this health screening tool is noninvasive, radiation-free and does not involve any contact with the body. See Profile on page 29.
NATUROPATHIC/INTEGRATIVE PHYSICIAN Dr. Shannon Homkovics 12 Village Street, Suite 3 North Haven, CT 203-239-3400 TheModernDoctorNMD@gmail.com TheModernDr.com
Angela Amendola North Haven, CT 203-435-5925 Angela@TheBlueBuddha.com TheBlueBuddha.com The Blue Buddha – Integrative Massage, healing the world one woman at a time. Therapeutic massage exclusively for women. A resting place that listens, wraps you in comfort, safety, and serenity. Massage without the rush. Flexible scheduling and sessions designed for your individual needs. Addressing the body with an approach inspired by years of meditative discipline bringing a deep level of sensitivity and awareness to help you achieve greater relaxation and healing. Schedule your appointment today. See Profile on page 41.
New Haven/Middlesex
CT THERMOGRAPHY
THE MODERN DOCTOR
THE BLUE BUDDHA INTEGRATIVE MASSAGE
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MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY
“I am passionate about healing. I take the time to get to know my patients, and to identify and treat the underlying cause for any particular complaint. As a naturopathic physician, my specialty is endocrinology with a focus on women’s health care and weight loss. My goal in life is to show my patient’s there is another way to live. We are not meant to be depressed, achy, overweight, unmotivated and so forth. I want to help my client’s thrive and flourish at any age.”
NaturalNewHaven.com
PAIN RELIEF & HEALTH PRODUCTS EARLEEN WRIGHT
CBDa & CBGa products Reiki Master BEMER sessions Phone/Text: 203-215-3222 earleenwright@gmail.com EarleenWright.myctfo.com Earleen can help you relieve your pain and show you where to buy the best wholesale Holistic products to enhance your health. We have CBDa products which is 1,000 times more potent than CBD alone. We also have a CBGa product that helps give you a blissful day. You can also, add the Bliss to your CBDa infused Coffee. Free consultation. Free samples upon request.
PET EUTHANASIA SERVICE FINAL JOURNEY, LLC Kristen Klie, D.V.M. 203-645-5570 FinalJourneyLLC.com
Final Journey, LLC is an in-home euthanasia service for your animal companion that brings comfort and peace during a sensitive and challenging time. See ad on page 53.
REIKI SUSANE GRASSO, RMT 2489 Boston Post Road Guilford, CT 203-500-6950
Stress is the plague of the 21st century and the cause of physical and emotional woes. Because of this, my sessions combine my ability to see auras with Reiki, Theta Healing, acupressure and Sound Vibrational Healing to provide deep relaxation and balance. “Tension out! Wellness in” is more than a phrase. For my clients it is a statement of fact. Distance Healing available. See ad on page 8.
natural living directory
TALK THERAPY SENIEL LUCIEN LCSW, PH. D
SALT HEALING THERAPY WELLNESS CENTER SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA
787 Main St, S Woodbury, CT 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformations, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit. See Profile on page 39.
SHAMANIC ENERGY HEALING EAGLE FLIGHT HEALING, LLC Hamden, CT 203-535-8849 Info@EagleFlightHealing.com EagleFlightHealing.com
Eagle Flight Healing provides transformative energy work using shamanic methods, the guidance of a client’s higher consciousness and unseen guides. Clients experience a new perspective of self in addition to feeling more vitality, happiness and joy. See Profile on page 31.
SPIRITUAL COUNSELING LAURI INGRAM
696 Amity Road, Unit B-1 Bethany, CT 203-435-5650 lauri@lauriingram.com LauriIngram.com As an ordained interfaith/ interspiritual minister, I believe there is much to learn as we journey through life. It begins with openness, curiosity, and deep self-compassion. My commitment is to using my life skills, experience, and training to create safe and sacred space for self-discovery through various modalities, including meditation, crystals, color and art journaling. See Profile on page 35.
Offices in Essex & W. Hartford 860-767-2189 Slucien.com In person (depending on CDC compliance) or telemedicine With separate trainings in behavior therapies, psychoanalysis, crisis and trauma, for adults, and children and adolescents, I am fortunate to have both a broad range and depthful knowledge to assist you. Whether from past wounds and conflicts or new situations like those surrounding Covid, many of us develop behaviors or symptoms as we struggle with fear, anxiety, or depression. Talking reveals your unique individuality: being ‘heard’ by a specially trained clinician allows us to consider better choices and understanding so that you are less drained, less pained, and have a better chance for increased productivity and contentment.
UNIVERSAL WHITE TIME CRYSTAL & SOUND HEALING CRYSTAL MUSIC HEALING
Bradford Tilden, MM, CMT, UWT 860-830-5841 info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com My goal is to empower you to develop spiritually and professionally. I offer sessions and teach certification classes in Universal White Time (UWT), Lemurian Intuitive, Crystal, and Sound Healing, transformational voice coaching, and guided visualization. I use these techniques and more to help you toward authentic expression, empowerment, and transformation. You can purchase personally attuned crystals, gemstones and Alphay medicinal mushroom superfood products through me. My clients and students gain clarity and a renewed sense of purpose in working with me. See Profile on page 29.
UNIVERSAL WHITE TIME CRYSTAL HEALING BRAULTTREE WELLNESS CENTER
Roslyn N. Carrier-Brault MA, UWTH, CHT, RMT Three Oaks Plaza 415 Killingworth Road, 2nd Floor, Suite 9A Higganum, CT 860-344-9573 roslyn@braulttreewellnesscenter.com BraulttreeWellnessCenter.com As a student and fellow Lightworker of Bradford W. Tilden, in 2020, Roslyn established Braulttree Wellness Center (BWC), where she, her husband, William Brault, and the subleasing practitioners offer Universal White Time hands-on healing sessions. Roslyn enjoys working with people and their pets, using a wide variety of holistic modalities, such as Lemurian Crystals, Crystal and Mineral Lays, Universal White Time Healing (UWTH), and Essential Oil. Roslyn is a gifted healer and empath, who has over 25 years of experience as a Reiki Master Teacher, who now exclusively works within the higher vibrational energy of UWTH. BWC provides a safe space that supports and meets each client where they are within their path of self-care and healing. Roslyn’s outreach services include intuitive pet care services and intuitive dog training, IntuitivePetCarellc.com and fine art photography, RoslynnCarrierBrault.com. Additionally, BWC provides a venue for fellow practitioners to offer small, safe wellness classes and workshops. See Profile on page 27.
WELLNESS CENTER THE RED BARN IN DURHAM NEW EARTH THERAPIES AND ART CENTER
352 Main Street, Durham, CT 860-559-6151 TheRedBarnInDurham.com Facebook: The Red Barn in Durham We are a collaborative of practitioners who have created a safe healing environment for holistic care, healing arts and creativity. We have licensed, insured and seasoned practitioners for many modalities of healing—body, mind, spirit and heart. Also located in our 10,000 square foot barn are The Borrowed Time Emporium and The Soul Shine Salt Cavern. Check out our website and Facebook page for updated information. See Profile on page 33.
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New Haven/Middlesex
NaturalNewHaven.com
natural living directory WELLNESS CENTER WOLF SPIRIT WELLNESS AND COUNSELING CENTER, LLC 670 Main Street South, Suite B2 Woodbury, CT Office: 203-263-3175 Fax: 844-364-2702 info@wolfspiritwellness.org WolfSpiritWellness.org
Wolf Spirit Wellness offers both traditional and alternative mental health counseling for individuals, families, couples, and groups.We specialize in all types of trauma from a neurobiological and somatic perspective. We utilize alternative healing methods such as Reiki, meditation and hypnosis into our traditional sessions, so our clients get the maximum benefit of the mind, body, and spirit connection. See Profile on page 45.
WHOLE BODY WELLNESS CBD MASSAGE ELM CITY WELLNESS
774 Orange Street, New Haven, CT 203-691-7653 493 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 475-238-7841 ElmCityWellness.com Elm City Wellness is an independent, womanowned wellness center with a focus on community healing. Services include a variety of skilled massage, CBD massage, community and private acupuncture, Reiki, craniosacral therapy and organic skin care, including signature, microderm and high frequency facials. Skilled therapists specifically tailor each and every session. Our wellness store features local products, candles, wellness supplies and books, smudge kits and a large range of third-party tested, pharmaceutical grade CBD products. See Profile on page 31.
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YOGA & WELLNESS WHOLE BODY THERMOGRAPHY B WELL THERMOGRAPHY
Shirley Prendergast, CTT, INHC 380 Boston Post Rd, Orange, CT 705 Boston Post Rd, Guilford, CT 203-915-9712 shirley@bwellthermography.com BWellThermography.com
Choosing B Well Thermography is a step in the right direction for Early Detection and Prevention. Thermography testing is a radiation-free, state-of-the-art screening procedure that captures heat images of the breast to aid in the early detection of cancer and fibrocystic breast disease. As a Health Coach, I use the holistic approach when working with patients to achieve optimal health. See ad on page 19.
SHORELINE CT YOGA & WELLNESS Erin Schuster shorelinectyoga@gmail.com ShorelineCTYoga.com
Shoreline CT Yoga and Wellness offers onsite and online classes and workshops across a wide range of topics including Teen Yoga Programs, Mindful Fitness, Kripalu Yoga, Meditation, and Corporate Yoga. Our mission is to offer transformative experiences in a supportive environment that inspires connection, compassion, and joy. Email Erin to enjoy one complimentary in-studio or live zoom class.
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next person. Similar to a kitchen, after we cook, we clean the kitchen and leave it for the next person, who then does the same thing. And the cycle continues. When we were born, we didn’t bring anything with us; we barely even had hair. As we age, we accrue more and more things. Keep in mind that we came with “no-thing” material. We come with nothing and we gain every-thing while we are on the material plane. We gain clothes, books, education, jobs, family and possessions. Every-thing we get is after we are born. And then when we leave this world, we have to leave every-thing behind, and we still go. So we are just these beautiful transient visitors going on this journey in the material world.
inspiration
No-thing belongs to us. The second principle is that we are not the enjoyers of matter. If we start to think “this house is mine,” “this car is mine,” and “I get to enjoy it” and “I get to do this,” then the identification as the enjoyer of matter will lead to disturbance of the mind. So we shouldn’t think that this house is mine,
A Yogi’s Wisdom: How to Find Peace The Yoga Peace Formula by Vedaji
W
hat is our peace formula? What keeps us at peace? When asked this question, we might list any number of things: watching a sunrise, meditation, listening to music, walking on the beach, cooking, spending time in nature, painting, being in silence. Notice that these are all things that occur in the material world. Yoga prescribes a simple, three-step formula to finding peace that is based in the spiritual world. Understanding and living these principles is the secret to having a peace mindset, which is necessary to find peace. This peace formula is in our minds and our hearts; it is who we are. It is not focused on anything outside of 52
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our true spiritual being, which is the only place we can find peace. We cannot find peace in the material world. The first principle is to understand that nothing in this world belongs to us. When we have the mindset that nothing in this world belongs to us; it separates us from the material objects in the world. It’s hard to find peace if we are unable to detach from what happens on the physical plane. We have to separate ourselves. And when we are able to separate ourselves—ambitions, possessions and everything we gather over this lifetime—we realize that they don’t belong to us. There are many things we take, we use, we inherit and then we leave for the
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this car is mine. If we are enjoying material objects, it will cause disturbance of the mind and peace will disappear. As yogis, this is our aspiration. We want to come to this state of consciousness when we realize we are not the enjoyers of matter. Rather, we are enjoyers of the eternal part of our being, because that is the real enjoyment. Temporary enjoyment on the physical plane will take us away from peace, it will take us away from our spiritual core. We are not the enjoyers of matter. And the third principal needed to obtain the peace mindset is that we are the wellwishers of all living beings. If we follow
Yoga prescribes a simple, three-step formula to finding peace that is based in the spiritual world. Understanding and living these principles is the secret to having a peace mindset, which is necessary to find peace. this basic principle, it will remove us from any form of competition in this world. We will no longer try to be better than others, we won’t be jealous, and all the issues we have with other human beings will go away. This principle allows us to always think of the well-being of others. We always wish the best for others, regardless of what they may or may not have done to us. We are not attached to an outcome in a relationship; we are not attached to someone doing something for us. Whatever they do or don’t do, we wish the best for them no matter what. It doesn’t mean that we should still continue to subject ourselves to harmful situations; we simply wish the best for all beings, not being attached to an outcome in the relationship. These three beautiful concepts enable us to find peace. If we truly analyze our life, we may realize that we do everything but follow these three simple principles, and that’s why it’s difficult for us to find peace. When we realize that there is so much that we are doing that is contrary to the three principles of peace, we will understand why we are not peaceful. That’s why the yoga texts are always saying “shanti, shanti, shanti.” We all seek peace. We all want peace. The interesting thing is that sense gratification is the opposite of renunciation. Renunciation brings us peace; sense gratification does not bring us peace. Relocation also does not bring peace. Some people feel that if they just move to Maui, Vrindavan or the Swiss Alps, they’ll find peace. Peace is not defined by geography. Peace is a level of consciousness within our mind. It is that beautiful feeling that, “I control no-thing, I enjoy no-thing and no-thing belongs to me.” It is “the things” that we have to detach from. When we renounce ourselves from things, then we will find peace. And the real peace is this beautiful eternal space within our hearts. Whenever we spend time in our heart, that is the real seat of peace. Vedaji, a life-long yogi and mystic, holds a doctorate in yoga and is the founder of the nonprofits Mindful Seva Institute and Food4Lives. Once the head of a monastery in India, he is now based in Atlanta, Ga., and leads a life devoted to the service of others. Learn more at ChittarCleanse.com or email ChittarCleanse@gmail.com.
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“It is almost impossible to watch a sunset and not dream.”
~Bernard Williams
2022 Natural Living Directory
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A WEEKEND WARRIOR SURVIVAL GUIDE
prevention, first-aid and recovery by Marlaina Donato
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t first glance, it seems harmless to sit at a desk all week and then dive into gardening, hiking, shooting some hoops or playing softball with the kids. We think nothing of it until that pulled hamstring, stiff shoulder or painful knee makes itself known, slowing us down for a few days or weeks. At the other end of the spectrum, weekend warrior injuries can be more serious, taking months and even surgery to be resolved. With prevention, simple exercises and minimal investment of time, most suffering can be avoided. Recovery time can be shortened by integrating traditional firstaid approaches with complementary modalities like homeopathy, herbal remedies, essential oils and supplements.
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Full-Spectrum Prevention
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Maintaining our cars prevents them from breaking down on the highway, and our bodies are no different. Muscles are meant to move regularly, and if we’re doing our part, the body will be stronger, more flexible and less prone to sprains, strains and chronic pain. “Common causes of injury are not warming up the body before exercising, pushing yourself before you are ready, not taking enough rest, improper form and not listening to aches or pains,” says New Jersey fitness trainer and mindset coach Nadia Murdock. She stresses the importance of exercising regularly three to five times a week to improve muscle strength, increase endurance and transport oxygen and nutrients where they are needed most in the body. “With this routine under your belt, you can find more comfort in tackling an adventurous weekend without pain or injury.” Whether putting down a new floor, raking leaves or playing a game of tennis, toughing out an annoying muscle twinge or
ignoring stiffness in a joint can set us up for trouble down the road. “The ‘no pain, no gain’ mindset is definitely not beneficial over the long run for health maintenance,” says physical therapist Brennan Hussey. In his private practice in Evergreen, Colorado, and Appleton, Wisconsin, Hussey most often sees weekend warrior mishaps that target the lower back, shoulder, hip and knee. Identifying unhealthy habits and compromised alignment can prevent ongoing issues, he says, and a head-to-toe evaluation and approach are key. “Pain is obviously what brings people in for treatment most often, but if I treat with pain as the focus, I will miss the dysfunction that’s actually causing the pain response,” he says. “I’ve found hands-on, or manual, therapy best treats the various dysfunctions that cause pain, whether chronic or acute, and usually within a very low number of visits.”
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First-Aid and Recovery Essentials
RICE—rest, ice, compression and elevation—is the name of the game when injury strikes, but adding essential oils to a first-aid and recovery regimen can offer significant benefits. Diluted external use of lavender, cypress and eucalyptus can minimize bruising, pain and swelling. Essential oils are also reliable allies for dealing with general discomfort after an active weekend. “In my 30 years using essential oils, plus raising two active boys, I’ve found that the most effective way to use essential oils for post-activity soreness is with topical application,” says Liz Fulcher, a clinical aromatherapist and owner of the Aromatic Wisdom Institute, in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. “Specifically, I add 15 to 20 drops of essential oil into one fluid ounce of unscented lotion or cream, which is a 5 percent dilution—too strong for all-over use, but great for spot application of topical issues. Apply the blend into the affected area as often as needed for approximately two days.” Her powerhouse favorites for aches and pains include German chamomile (M. chamomilla), helichrysum (H. italicum), ginger (Z. officinale), black pepper (P. nigrum), frankincense (B. carterii), lavender (L. angustifolia) and tea tree (M. alternifolia). For open wounds, she reaches for the distilled herbal waters known as hydrosols to wash the area before applying lavender and tea tree to avoid infection. Helichrysum essential oil is remarkable for bruises and other topical trauma, she says. According to a 2016 review of studies in the American Journal of Therapeutics, soft tissue injuries respond well to immediate and subsequent internal use of the homeopathic remedy Arnica Montana 30x, as well as topical arnica in the form of gels, oils and sprays. Remedies like Ruta graveolens and Rhus tox offer further support for sprains and strains. Bolstering the diet with antiinflammatory spices and supplements like turmeric, vitamin C with bioflavonoids, vitamin E with mixed tocopherols, bromelain, borage and flaxseed oil can also provide support. In the end, maintaining an active lifestyle all week long can lower the risk of needless suffering. “With consistent movement, you will understand how your body moves and responds to certain conditions. This will start to create a deeper understanding of what your body can tolerate,” advises Murdock. “The biggest takeaway is consistency.” Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.
TIPS TO PREVENT INJURY ADVICE FROM FITNESS TRAINER NADIA MURDOCK: Start with a gentle warmup if you are stretching before your workout. This helps to loosen up the joints and improves the blood flow to the muscles in your body. Try incorporating a few jumping jacks or a minute of running in place. Avoid bouncing in the stretch; hold the stretch for at least 20 seconds and don’t rush it. A few simple moves: FORWARD LUNGE: Kneel on one knee, place the other leg forward at a 90-degree angle, making sure the knee is over the ankle. Lean into the movement to feel the stretch in the inner thigh. Hold for at least 20 seconds and then switch legs.
STANDING QUAD STRETCH: If you need additional support in this stretch, you can use a wall or chair. Raise one foot behind you; on the same side of the body, reach back to grab your foot at the ankle and pull it toward your seat, stretching the thigh. Keep the knees close and square your hips by keeping them forward. Hold for at least 20 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
SEATED STRADDLE LOTUS: Sit down on the floor with the soles of your feet together in front of you. Gently press your knees to the floor while placing your forearms on the inside of the knees. Push down as you lean your body forward toward the ground. Make sure you are leaning forward from the hips. Hold this stretch for at least 20 seconds and repeat if you feel you need to. 2022 Natural Living Directory
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Beyond Kibble How to Shop for the Healthiest Pet Food by Sheila Julson
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When purchasing kibble, look for brands that are minimally processed and provide vitamins directly from the ingredients; a long list of supplements on an ingredient list means the food has been highly processed. There has been recent debate within the animal care community as to whether grain-free diets are more helpful or harmful to pets. O’Brien Greenleaf notes the jury is still out on how some grains affect pets or whether grain-free diets are better. “It depends on how contaminated or genetically modified the grains are, and whether grains agree with your pet,” she says. Testing is now available to help determine ingredients to which a pet may be allergic. She also recommends adding high-quality fish oil to pet’s food to help quell inflammation that can cause skin issues and other disorders.
Smaller Manufacturers Emphasize Quality Control Randi Ross owns the franchise in Campbell, California, for Ben’s Barketplace, a Northern California pet food store chain that specializes in quality foods for dogs and cats. She notes that corporate mergers and acquisitions over the years have put many large pet food brands that are carried at bigbox stores into the hands of conglomerates that also produce candy, soap and other non-pet products. This can lead to lack of oversight and quality control issues. Many smaller, specialty pet food stores carefully screen the brands they carry. They offer products made by smaller companies that produce just pet food and embrace a holistic, farm-to-table philoso-
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eople are always striving to improve the quality of life for their pets. For some, this means making homemade dog and cat food or buying meat directly from a local butcher, but not all pet parents have the necessary time, space or finances. While there are better quality kibble and canned pet foods available today than in the past, along with frozen raw and freeze-dried raw foods, an overwhelming volume of choices can confuse even the savviest consumer. Cecille O’Brien Greenleaf, a holistic veterinarian in San Jose, California, advises pet parents to use the same criteria they do when shopping for human food—look for the freshest, cleanest ingredients possible, a limited ingredient panel and no chemicals and pesticides. “Look for human-grade ingredients that offer the most vitality,” she emphasizes. She notes that some larger manufacturers have been caught using the least expensive ingredients they could find, including diseased animals that have been rejected from the human supply chain. Ingredients on panels are listed by weight from highest to lowest, so the first one listed is the one that weighs the most. It should be pure meat— chicken, beef, venison or fish. Proteins such as chicken liver, organ meat or eggs may follow. “If there are many synthesized items in the ingredient list, that is to be avoided,” she says. Frozen raw and dehydrated raw foods provide optimal nutrition while more closely mimicking pets’ primal eating patterns. The extrusion process that some pet food manufacturers use to make kibble can overcook the product. To compensate, synthesized vitamins are often sprayed onto the finished product, similar to how many children’s breakfast cereals are produced, she explains.
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phy regarding how they source their ingredients and manufacture their foods. The melamine pet food recall of 2007, in which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found chemical contaminants in vegetable proteins imported from China used as ingredients in pet food, prompted many people to look for “Made in the United States” on packages. However, even if a brand is labeled as American- or North American-made, it doesn’t necessarily mean all of the ingredients were sourced from America, Ross says. Freeze-dried raw meal toppers and pour-over broths have become popular ways to add nutrition and flavor to kibble. When purchasing those products, she says, the same rules apply as when shopping for food: look for single or limitedingredients on product panels and be wary of excessive filler ingredients like corn or wheat. “We help educate people on the true cost of pet ownership,” Ross says. “Spending a little more money now on high-quality pet food ultimately keeps dogs and cats healthier, reducing the need for veterinarian visits, pharmaceuticals and antibiotics.” Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country.
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calendar of events TUESDAY, MARCH 1 Breast Thermography with April Beaman, RDH, CTT – 7pm-7:30pm. How do you know if your breasts are healthy? Are you looking for a radiationfree breast screening? Have you considered Thermography to assess your breast health? Join us to learn about the benefits of Breast Thermography, the difference between Thermography & Mammography, and how this screening tool has helped thousands of women assess & monitor their breast health safely and effectively. To register for this FREE Zoom webinar please visit CT Thermography.com/ events or email info@ctthermography.com.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 Proclaim A Fast: Lent’s Invitation to Freedom and Trust – 9:30am-3:30pm. On Ash Wednesday, spiritual director Claire Rusowicz leads a guided reflection, prayer and intentional silence for the season of Lent. Program fee is $65. Mercy by the Sea, 167 Neck Rd, Madison. Register at https://programs.mercybythesea.org/CourseCatalog/ScheduleView.asp?Scheduleld=3327.
THURSDAY, MARCH 3 Sound Healing Meditation – 6pm-7pm. (March 3, 17 & 31). Join Bradford Tilden every other Thursday for a deeply restorative and activating Sound Healing Meditation. He creates soothing sonic tapestries with his voice and crystal bowls for you to relax, unwind and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind, and field. Please Bring your own blanket, chair or yoga mat to sit on. Register via eventbrite: https://tinyurl.com/BradfordBridge. Walk-ins welcome. $15-$35 sliding scale, The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St, Farmington. 860-404-2578, https://bridgehac.com.
SATURDAY, MARCH 5 Maple Sugaring – 11am. A very long time ago, the native people of the northeastern part of our country shared their sweet tree know-how with the newcomers from Europe. Ranger Dawn and Alison present an introduction to making maple syrup the old-fashioned way, and help us to choose just the right tree for tapping into this sweet treat! Fee: $6 per person. Family program children must be accompanied by an adult. Ansonia Nature Ctr, 10 Deerfield Rd, Ansonia. Preregister: 203-736-1053.
TUESDAY, MARCH 8 International Women’s Day 2022: Coffee and Conversations Close to the Heart – 12pm-2pm. Virtual on Zoom. Join the Consortium with a nice cup of coffee for chat and friendship this Women’s Day. No CECs. Free. Register at WomensConsortium.org.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9 The Julian Circle with Mark S Burrows, PhD: a virtual program – 7pm-8:30pm. (March 9 & April 6). from A mystic whose “book” is considered a remarkable document of medieval religious experience. Burrows is a scholar of historical theology. Fee is $60 (inquire about scholarships) Register at https://programs.mercybythesea.org/CourseCatalog/ScheduleView.asp?Scheduleld=3326.
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SATURDAY, MARCH 12
FRIDAY, MARCH 18
Mary and the Wisdom of the Sacred Feminine: a virtual program – 10am-1pm. Paintner, PhD online Abbess of Abbey of the Arts, explores Mary’s many gifts to the world with a focus on Mary as Untier of Knots, Our Lady of Silence and Protectress. Program Fee is $65. Register at https://programs.mercybythesea.org/CourseCatalog/ScheduleView.asp?Scheduleld=3325.
Full Moon Hike – 6:30pm. Join Ranger Jeremy and Ranger Evelyn our Nature Center naturalists on a hike by the light of the moon! Listen for coyotes howling while we gather around the fire at pavilion #1 from 5:30pm-6:30pm to warm up before the hike begins. We will use our night vision and other senses for this after-dark park expedition in Raptor Woods. Wear warm clothes and proper footgear! Inclement weather or dangerous conditions will cancel the hike. Fee: $1 per person, all ages are welcome. Children must be with an adult. This hike is not stroller-friendly. Ansonia Nature Ctr, 10 Deerfield Rd, Ansonia. Preregister: 203-736-1053.
Reiki Share with Michaela D. Feliciano, RMT, Love and Light Works, LLC – 1pm-2:30pm. This will be a time for any Reiki Practitioners to come together and help each other heal and grow by practicing on each other. This is a very lovely experience for all who attend. Guests are welcomed. $20 for Reiki Practitioner and $30 for guests. Braulttree Wellness Center, 415 Killingworth Rd, Higganum. BraulttreeWellnessCenter.com/events.
SUNDAY, MARCH 13 Salt & Sound: Energy System Balance and Reset – 4:30pm-5:45pm. Guided sound healing meditation experience with salt therapy designed to realign your energy. Breath work enhances the benefits of the salt, while being immersed in the sounds of bronze singing bowls, bells, and gong eases tension, stress, and pain. Soulshine Salt Cave at The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. $60. Email Katie@FeelYourLight.com to register, space is limited.
TUESDAY, MARCH 15 Free Essential Oil Class – 6:30pm-8pm. Help align your mind, body, spirit. Learn to take control of your health with therapeutic grade oils. Free class. In Person, 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. For questions, please call 203-631-7803, email: Return2love3@ gmail.com or visit: Return2Love.com/workshops.
THURSDAY, MARCH 17 Jr. Rangers: In-Person: Registration begins Thursday, March 17 – 3:30pm-5pm. (Thursdays, April 21 – June 9). Calling all teens 11 to 14 years old who love nature! Has your child wanted to work with animals, garden, help maintain our trails, and help with conservation and community science projects? This is the opportunity to help the Nature Center in our 7–week after-school program. Parental permission is required. Class size is limited; this class fills up fast! Free. Ansonia Nature Ctr, 10 Deerfield Rd, Ansonia. Register in advance at ansnaturectr@ansoniact.org. Sound Healing Meditation – 6pm-7pm. (March 3, 17 & 31). Join Bradford Tilden every other Thursday for a deeply restorative and activating Sound Healing Meditation. He creates soothing sonic tapestries with his voice and crystal bowls for you to relax, unwind and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind, and field. Please Bring your own blanket, chair or yoga mat to sit on. Register via eventbrite: https://tinyurl.com/BradfordBridge. Walk-ins welcome. $15-$35 sliding scale, The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St, Farmington. 860-404-2578. https://bridgehac.com.
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SATURDAY, MARCH 19 Salt & Sound: Spring Equinox Energy Sound Bath – 9am-10:15am. Experience salt therapy, energy and sound healing honoring the rebirth into spring. Connect deeply with Gaia and nourish the seeds that have started to emerge from the darkness of winter. Soulshine Salt Cave at The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. $60. Email Katie@FeelYourLight.com to register, space is limited. Oracle Card & Energy Reading 101 – 11am12:30pm. Discover your own vocabulary for reading. Try out new decks, spreads, and how to formulate great questions. Specifically work with Oracle cards, exploring ways to read and interpret, how to tune into your client’s energy field, and channel information for an in-depth reading. $25. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. Email Katie@FeelYourLight.com to register. Quantum Shifting: Healing Past Timelines – 1pm-2:30pm. Create your future from your present, not from your past, by clearing energetic blocks, cords, and patterns. Discover a fast and simple way to dissolve negative emotions on the spot. $25. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. Email Katie@FeelYourLight.com to register.
SUNDAY, MARCH 20 Spring Equinox Meditation on Zoom – 6pm7:30pm. Join us in accessing the new Spring energies that facilitate manifesting opportunities and initiating new endeavors. These energies also facilitate change and the beginning of the balance of the masculine and feminine within each of us. This will be a very powerful experience of accessing the new Spring energies that are enhanced and supported by the intense energies of our time. $25. 203-631-7803, email: Return2love3@gmail.com or visit: Return2Love.com/workshops.
TUESDAY, MARCH 22 The Consortium Lunch & Learn: The Power of Confidence – 12pm-1pm. Virtual on Zoom. To create achievement and success requires a certain amount of confidence in yourself and your abilities. In this lunch and learn, we will explore eight key factors of confidence for women and discuss how to strengthen your own inner experience of confidence to create the life successes most important to you! No CECs. Free. Register at WomensConsortium.org.
THURSDAY, MARCH 24 Mary Albanese, ZenZu Animal Communication & Energy Work – 4pm-6pm. Basic E.F.T. & Pendulum Dowsing as Tools for Pet Parents Workshop. $125. (includes 2 hrs salt cave and workshop materials). Limit 10 ppl. The Healing Salt Cave & Wellness Spa, 260 River St, Guilford. Registration and details: mary@zenzuac.com or 203-589-0930.
FRIDAY, MARCH 25 Birth Doula Training – (March 25-27). Start your journey as a Birth Partner with our 3-day comprehensive training program. Email info@birthpartnersdoulas.com today for more information. BirthPartnersDoulas.com. Mindfulness Skills for Clinicians – 9am-12pm. Virtual on Zoom. Trainer Tracey Meyers, PsyD. This workshop is designed for mental health clinicians who want to learn how to use the powerful tools of mindfulness clinically and in their own lives. Participants will gain the confidence and knowledge to tailor mindfulness techniques to their and their clients’ needs. Specific mindfulness tools for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and schizophrenia will be reviewed. 3 CECs. $60. Register at WomensConsortium.org.
SATURDAY, MARCH 26 Universal White Time Gemstone Healing 1 Certification – 9am-7pm. (Sat March 26 & Sun March 27). Learn to heal yourself, others, animals and the environment with this rare and ancient universal knowledge. All levels of experience are welcome. Avant Garde Holistic Center, 328 E Main St, Branford. $480 includes the basic stone kit. Register with deposit: https://linktr.ee/ bradfordtilden. Contact Bradford 860-830-5841 info@crysalmusichealing.com.
SUNDAY, MARCH 27 All About Bluebirds – 1pm. Join Ranger Evelyn for a fun and educational program all about bluebirds. Take a walk through bluebird habitat and watch for these harbingers of spring. Wear shoes suitable for walking and dress for the weather. Free. Ansonia Nature Ctr, 10 Deerfield Rd, Ansonia. Register at ansnaturectr@ansoniact.org.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 31 Sound Healing Meditation – 6pm-7pm. (March 3, 17 & 31). Join Bradford Tilden every other Thursday for a deeply restorative and activating Sound Healing Meditation. He creates soothing sonic tapestries with his voice and crystal bowls for you to relax, unwind and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind, and field. Please Bring your own blanket, chair or yoga mat to sit on. Register via eventbrite: https://tinyurl.com/BradfordBridge. Walk-ins welcome. $15-$35 sliding scale, The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St. Farmington. 860-404-2578. https://bridgehac.com.
SATURDAY, APRIL 2 Usui Reiki Level Two Certification and Attunement Class with Michaeala D. Feliciano, RMT, Love and Light Works, LLC: April 2-3 – 10am3pm. (Both days). Reiki Level Two, Usui Reiki Training, will be a two-day training. Price: $440. Braulttree Wellness Center, 415 Killingworth Rd, Higganum. BraulttreeWellnessCenter.com/events.
Nothing is more beautiful than the loveliness of the woods before sunrise. ~George Washington Carver 2022 Natural Living Directory
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Qigong with Maureen from Living Your Qi! Wuji Gong Moving Meditation – 7:30pm-8:30pm. Location: The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. Text or email Maureen to register: 203-530-5156. maureen.funke@gmail.com.
sunday Reiki Class Level 1 – 10am-3:30pm. (Sundays: March 20 & March 27). Lean Reiki for self-care and treatment of others. Participants will learn, the benefits, history and precepts of Reiki. Ample time for practice while following CDC PROTOCOL. Small class open for 4 participants at the Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center, 605 Main St, Middletown. Cost $160 members, $170 non-members, For more Information, call: 203-314-5401, eilande@comcast.net ReikiwithEileenAnderson.com. Sunday Guided Hikes – 1pm. Join a Nature Center guide on Sunday afternoons for fun, exercise, and learning about our trails! Free. Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Ln, Ansonia. Preregister: ansnaturectr@ansoniact.org.
monday Birth Partners Doulas now offers in-home private yoga sessions with a relaxing hand/ foot massage included! – $75 per session Call 203-718-6512 or email info@birthpartnersdoulas.com to book your or to gift one to your favorite mamato-be! BirthPartnersDoulas.com. Usui Reiki with Annette (for Women) – By appointment. Reiki uses universal life force energy. The energy channeled from the universe through the practitioner and to the person receiving. Positive imagery and sacred Reiki symbols are used to help release, relax and prepare the body for healing. Techniques may vary depending on the needs of the body at the time of the session. For more information and to book a session, visit LotusMoonReikiHealing.com. Shamanic Reiki with Annette (For Women) – By appointment. Through natural worldly elements and the four directions of the medicine wheel, Shamanic Reiki helps to unblock deep emotion and trauma. We may cut cords of attachment that keeps us from moving forward, retrieve pieces of ourselves that were once thought lost and light the path forward. For more information and to book a session, visit LotusMoonReikiHealing.com. Come see CELC Middle School in action – Tours by appointment only! Middle school specialists, 5th – 8th grade. Small class sizes, personalized instruction, robust academics. Limited openings still available for 2022. 28 School St, Branford. Contact mandm@CTExperiential.org or call 203-433-4658. For more information, visit CTExperiential.org. Monday Morning Hikes – 9 am. Hike the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center trails for a positive start to your week. Come and learn about the history and ecology of the land while Ranger Dan, our Assistant Director, leads this weekly hike on our beautiful nature preserve. We will begin promptly at 9am. Dress for the weather and conditions Free. Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Ln, Ansonia. Preregister: ansnaturectr@ ansoniact.org.
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tuesday Sound Healing Meditation – 7pm-8:15pm. Relax into a deep, guided, healing meditation using sound from bronze singing bowls, bells, gong, and voice. Rotating weekly focus with emphasis on selfhealing. Bring a mat or lawn chair, blanket, pillow, and water. $35/session or $100/mo pre-pay. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. Email Katie@FeelYourLight.com to register.
wednesday Birth Partners Doulas now offers in-home private yoga sessions with a relaxing hand/ foot massage included! – $75 per session Call 203-718-6512 or email info@birthpartnersdoulas.com to book your or to gift one to your favorite mamato-be! BirthPartnersDoulas.com. Nature Explorers – 10am. (Wednesdays, March 2 & 9). Join us for this 4-week program for children 2–5 years old with their adult explorer. These classes are loosely structured, influenced by the seasons and interests of the children. We will explore outside in nature every class so please be dressed for the weather. Classes will end with a light snack. Class limit 10 children. Ages 2 – 5 years old. Tuition: $40 for all 4 weeks. Please register ansnaturectr@ ansoniact.org. Ansonia Nature & Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Ln, Ansonia. Explore White Time – 6pm-8:30pm. (March 9th. Every 2nd Wednesday). All are welcome to participate in this exclusive round-robin style healing circle featuring White Time Energy and Gemstone healing. Everyone gets a turn on the table to receive White Time energy and the featured gemstone treatment of the month. Facilitated by Roslyn Carrier-Brault. $30 for all participants, $10 discount for Universal White Time Practitioners. Braulttree Wellness Center, Higganum, CT. 860-344-9573. roslyn@braulttreewellnesscenter.com. BraulttreeWellnessCenter.com.
thursday The Caring Network: Free virtual support group through Microsoft Teams for adults who have lost a loved one – 6pm. (Thursdays, March 3 & March 17). Bridges Healthcare, 949 Bridgeport Ave, Milford. Information about grief and loss; facilitated open discussion. Adults do not need to register. The group is facilitated by a Bridges counselor and is sponsored by Bridges Healthcare and Cody-White Funeral Home. For more information, please call the Group Facilitator, Brooke Torres M.Ed., at 203-878-6365 ext. 480. or email brtorres@ bridgesmilford.org.
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Sound Healing Meditation – 6pm-7pm. (March 3, 17 & 31). Join Bradford Tilden every other Thursday for a deeply restorative and activating Sound Healing Meditation. He creates soothing sonic tapestries with his voice and crystal bowls for you to relax, unwind and release stress and unwanted energies from your body, mind, and field. Please Bring your own blanket, chair or yoga mat to sit on. Register via eventbrite: https://tinyurl.com/BradfordBridge. Walk-ins welcome. $15-$35 sliding scale, The Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St, Farmington. 860-404-2578, https://bridgehac.com.
friday Birth Partners Doulas now offers in-home private yoga sessions with a relaxing hand/ foot massage included! – $75 per session Call 203-718-6512 or email info@birthpartnersdoulas.com to book your or to gift one to your favorite mamato-be! BirthPartnersDoulas.com.
saturday Feeder Chats – Virtual Program Series – 9 am. (Mar 5). Participants are invited to be part of a community that will share bird-feeding observations and knowledge. They will learn about Project FeederWatch, hear from guest speakers, share tips & tricks for managing feeders, and more. For novice and experienced birdwatchers, with a format that leaves plenty of time for discussion and conversation. Online access details will be shared with registered participants. Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Ln, Ansonia. Preregister: donna.kingston@ct.gov. Creature Features – 12pm. Come to meet our furry, scaly, and feathery animal ambassadors. You’ll have the chance to touch and hold them in this Free family program for all ages. Ansonia Nature Ctr, 10 Deerfield Rd, Ansonia. Preregister: ansnaturectr@ ansoniact.org.
classifieds ALS SUPPORT THE ALS ASSOCIATION CONNECTICUT CHAPTER – Leading the fight to treat and cure ALS through research & advocacy while empowering people w/Lou Gehrig’s Disease and their families to live fuller lives w/compassionate care & support. 4 Oxford Road, Unit D4. Milford. 203-874-5050. WebCT.alsa.org.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONNECTICUT WOMEN’S CONSORTIUM – Aim: ensure the behavioral health system responds to the needs of women & the people & organizations that affect them. Eliminate discrimination/promote excellence in care for women through educ., training, advocacy & policy dev. 203-909-6888, WomensConsortium.org.
DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
LYME DISEASE
DISTRIBUTORS WANTED – For monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay at home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors. Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com.
CT LYME RIDERS, INC. – Founded in 2007 by motorcyclists Sandy Brule & Tony Gargano. A 501(c)(3) non profit public charity aiming to bring awareness to the public about Lyme Disease. Events & info. 860-537-0255, ctlymeriders.com.
HEALTH & WELLNESS SPACE FOR RENT
PARKINSON DISEASE ASSOCIATION – Mission: “To Ease the Burden, To Find A Cure” for those w/Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers in CT. Education, support and socialization. 860-248-9200, ctapda.org.
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE AND FITNESS TRAINING SPACE AVAILABLE FOR RENT – Inside Fitness Facility w/ Private Office, Equipment, & Open Rubber Floor. Monthly or Hourly Rate Options. Personal Trainers, Yoga and Holistic Practitioners welcome. Results Plus Fitness, Hamden, CT. 203-727-8700. ResultsPlus.com.
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