DEC2012_Pcola_NANWF by Natural Awakenings NW Florida

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It’s All Tune In To Gift-Giving Your Breath About We! Makeover Tips for Better Workouts

Co-Creating a Brighter Future

Sustainable Stocking Stuffers

DECEMBER 2012 | Pensacola Area Edition | www.NWFNaturally.com Escambia/Santa Rosa County

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contact us PUBLISHER Daralyn Chase Publisher@NWFNaturally.com NWFNaturally.com 850-279-4102, office 888-228-8238, toll free 888-370-0618, fax DIRECTOR OF aDVERTISING Scott Chase Scott@NWFNaturally.com (ext. 702) MANAGING EDITOR Jude Forsyth Editor@NWFNaturally.com (ext. 701) COMMUNITY LIAISONS (Okaloosa/Walton County) Emily Schultz Emily@NWFNaturally.com (ext. 704) (Pace/Milton/Crestview) Maria Perez Maria@NWFNaturally.com (ext. 706) (Bay County) Melisa Caporella Melisa@NWFNaturally.com (ext. 707) Editor Martin Miron LAYOUT & PRODUCTION Judith Johnson NATIONAL AD SALES 239-449-8309 FRANCHISE SALES 239-530-1377 © 2012 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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ear Santa, It’s been many years since I’ve written a list and you probably won’t need to check this one twice. This year, instead of “my” list, I’m writing “our” list. I was recently inspired to focus on a much more meaningful, heartfelt wish list by our own local healthy living community. Earlier this season, we interview several new leaders and professionals in our industry and asked them how they see their life’s purpose fitting into the betterment of humankind. And as our December issue is focused on the “We” instead of “Me,” so goes my list. Teri Haggerty, author of Your Key, Your Door: Life Purpose Discovery Book for Teens, so profoundly states: “I discovered that teenagers need hope, engagement and well-being to thrive. Now I want to change the face of education so the greater society of young people, educators and parents will be better. I don’t want it for myself anymore.” My first wish is that as we place our wants aside, we may begin to truly value each other and honor everyone daily with simple dignity, respect and kindness, just as we teach our children these ways by example. “It’s a big world with a lot of people. The best I can do to help humankind is to be all I know to be in my little corner of the world—to be kind to those I meet and to the environment,” expresses Linda Mix, author of Medicinal Herbs for Life. This leads me to my next wish, that as keepers of the Earth, we awaken to the realization that because what we do today and what we set in motion tomorrow will effect the generations ahead, we consciously work toward a better future for all creatures and our living planet. “I feel the impact that the science and art of yoga has on people’s lives. Bodies, hearts and minds are opening to new possibilities,” is mindfully spoken by Dawn Brooks, a yoga teacher at Yoga Elements. “This is where I belong in this world, and I will connect with others who desire a life of joy and adventure and assist them in attaining their highest potential, encouraged this wish.” My next wish is that as conscience citizens of this country and of the world, we can put aside our differences and refocus on our common concerns as we work toward lasting economic, spiritual and social healing. Santa, I never question how you fulfill so many wishes every year, but know that when you arrive at our home, a glass of organic milk and gluten-free cookies will be there, next to many extra copies of Natural Awakenings. Please give a copy to Mrs. Claus, because we are certain she will enjoy our yummy baking recipes, like the Healthy-er Sugar Cookies. Oh, and the elves may get some great ideas from our Green Living article about creating homemade stocking stuffers from recycled and reusable stuff. Please share a few copies with Rudolf and the team, as they may find a few helpful hints from our Fit Body section about breathing easier when they exert themselves by flying around the world. Sometimes even Santa needs help, so if you find you’re looking for more meaningful gifts, please be sure to visit our Natural Awakenings advertisers. They’ll help you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list and save you some money with special offers in our Holiday Gift Guide. Wishing you a magical holiday season, and worlds of happiness in 2013!

LET THERE BE PEACE ON EARTH AND LET IT BEGIN WITH ME

“Where people come together to grow their life and make the world a better place through spiritual social action” From the Unity Centers of the Gulf Coast

Merry Christmas Contact us or view our websites for specific events and times.

UNITY OF PANAMA CITY

UNITY OF PENSACOLA

1764 Lisenby Ave Panama City FL 32405

716 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, Florida 32501

www.unityofpanamacity.org panamacityunity@knology.net ______________________

Information Line (850) 432-4252 www.unitypns.org unity@unitypns.org ______________________

850-769-7481

UNITY IN FT. WALTON

1797 Hurlburt Road Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547

850-864-1232

www.unityinfwb.org

850-438-2277

UNITY OF GULF BREEZE

913 Gulf Breeze Pkwy # 26 Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

850-932-3076

www.unityofgulfbreezefl.com unityofgb@yahoo.com

contents

ANTI-AGING • PAIN RELIEF STRESS REDUCER

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

17 ARE FOOD OVER 50 YEARS OF PROVEN RESEARCH

SENSITIVITIES MAKING US SICK?

by Nitin Bawa, M.D.

LED Light Therapy delivered by the cutting edge AVALON system

18 IT’S ALL ABOUT WE

Now available for light sessions, rentals, sales & presentations

AVALON LIGHT KEEPERS Golden Almond Health Food Store Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm

850-424-8261

Conscious Evolution:

Why We’re Better Together

by Linda Sechrist

21 HOMEMADE

AND HEARTFELT

Do-It-Yourself Stocking Stuffers

AvalonLightKeepers.com l info@AvalonLightKeepers.com Receive a free session at one of our events found online at www.avalonlightkeepers.com/events/

by Meredith Montgomery

22 HEALTHY HOLIDAY

BAKING A Cornucopia of Delicious Treats

24 MAKING THE EXPERIENCE NATURAL HEALING!

“Building Strong, Healthy Families”

Acupuncture and Non-Needle Procedures Pharmaceutical Grade Herbs Also Formulated For Children Acupressure & Reflexology That Patients Can Do At home

KATHERINE SEMMES, MTOM ACUPUNCTURE PHYSICIAN

TREATING:

• Respiratory Issues

Chronic Colds & Ear Infections, Asthma, Allergies

CHILDREN TEENS ADULTS 4

• Digestive Disorders • Stress-related Ailments

EASTERN TRADITIONS

850-554-3464

In Harvest Village

7552 Navarre Pkwy Suite 6 • Navarre

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

NEXT LEAP IN CONSCIOUSNESS by Darby Neptune

26 HOW UNCONDITIONAL

LOVE HARMONIZES OUR WORLD

Marci Shimoff Explores its Transformative Power by Judith Fertig

29 MINDFUL HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Simple Ways to Add Meaning and Family-Centered Fun by Barbara Amrhein

30 BREATHE EASIER

Try These Tips for Better Workouts

32 CRITTER

COMPANIONS Alternative Adoptions Fit for Families

by Sandra Murphy

www.NWFNaturally.com

6 newsbriefs 11 healthbriefs 12 globalbriefs 13 ecotip 14 spotlights 17 healingways 21 greenliving 22 consciouseating 24 inspiration 26 wisewords 29 healthykids 30 fitbody 32 naturalpet 36 calendar 38 classifieds 38 naturaldirectory

advertising & submissions how to advertise Pricing is available online on our Advertising page. To advertise with Natural Awakenings call 850-279-4102 or email advertise@NWFNaturally.com. Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month. Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: editor@ NWFNaturally.com. Deadline for editorial: the 15th of the month. calendar submissions Submit calendar entries online only at NWFNaturally.com. The links are on the left side of the web page. Deadline for calendar: the 15th of the month. regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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December 2012

Sharalee Hoelscher, RCST® Registered Craniosacral Therapist Certified Rolfer ™

Rolfing® & Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Lic. # MA34039

850-450-8508

www.HealingWithBodywork.com Do you want to know who you are? Don’t ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you. ~ Thomas Jefferson

Y O G A “When the power of love overcomes loveCenter of power, Abhayathe Yoga 415-A we Tarragona St. North, Pensacola, will have peace.” FL 850.439.0350 • www.abhayayogacenter.com -Jimi Hendrix

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, we will have peace.” -Jimi Hendrix

Abhaya Yoga Center 415-A Tarragona St. North Pensacola, FL

850.439.0350

www.abhayayogacenter.com 6

newsbriefs Crystal Studios Houses the Shard Yard

rystal Copperstone and Jay Barrow have something new and something old at Crystal Studios, in Pensacola. A gallery features jewelry and beautiful art pieces made by local artists. The gift shop includes items that are often created from old objects from the Shard Yard and Garden that is now housed at the studios. The Shard Yard is a backyard dig that has yielded artifacts dating back to the Spanish occupation of Pensacola. That includes glass of all types, buttons, bullets, pipe stems, wooden toothbrush handles and crystal bottle stoppers. Says Barrow, “Now that we have the yard here, it’s much easier for individuals and glass dealers to purchase antique glass and many of the unique items from the dig.” Crystal Studios is also the home for Misfit Mountain Productions, where Barrow shows his personal jewelry line that focuses on handmade silver pieces. The studios offer all types of arts and craft supplies, many of which are only offered at the studio, and classes taught by Copperstone, an art teacher of 25 years, and other instructors that teach participants to use polymers and precious metals, glass, clay, paper, paint and more. “My goal is to help people relax and dissolve some of their everyday stressors through a form of art, by using every mixed media available to them,” she says. Meditation classes are also taught by Barrow and a coffee shop offers a quiet haven for the art community and members of the public. Location: 926 Lloyd St., Pensacola. For more information, call 850-466-5521. See pictures of the Shard Yard at Facebook.com/TheShardYardAndGardenPensacola.

Andrews Institute Seeks Crutches for Kids

he Andrews Institute Krutches for Kids program is looking for parents to will donate gently used crutches to their school for student athletes in need. The drive will continue through December 31. Crutches can be dropped off to area high school in-house certified athlete trainers in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. “Hundreds of experienced crutches are languishing in the homes and garages of former athletes across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties,” says Larry Lasky, a certified athletic trainer at the Andrews Institute. “We are committed to recycling these crutches and distributing them to those students who need them the most.” For more than 10 years, Baptist Health Care and the Andrews Institute have been placing certified athletic trainers in every high school in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, providing complimentary sports medicine coverage, health and safety information and injury prevention education through their Sports Medicine Outreach program. For more information, contact Lasky at 850-501-8889 or at Larry.Lasky@bhcpns.org.

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

Baptist Hospital Offers Holiday Seminar

Become an Herbal Expert with Kathy Hubbard

s part of a series of monthly educational gatherings, Baptist Health care is offering a seminar, Happy Holidays—How to Manage Your Stress, with Vicki Roy, M.D., of the Baptist Medical Group, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., December 18, with a noon lunch break. Attendees will meet in the Andrews Institute Athletic Performance & Research Pavilion of Baptist Hospital.

ertified Herbalist Kathy Hubbard is beginning a Back to Our Roots herbal certification course in January 2013, at Old Thyme Remedies, in Pensacola. It is held only twice a year, and students will be afforded the opportunity to learn about using herbs as food and medicine for a healthier lifestyle. They will make herbal preparations to include in a daily routine of health and wellness and as medicines for common ailments. The course begins at 9 a.m., January 12, and continues for five consecutive Saturdays. Participants will get hands-on experience in making teas, tinctures, salves, syrups and other herbal preparations. They will experience the texture, smell and taste of a variety of herbs and discover how the body works and ways the healing properties of herbs enhance those workings. Hubbard has studied and taught herbalism for 12 years. She is a graduate of Rosemary Gladstar’s Science & Art of Herbalism and has studied and worked with Kathleen Gould, of SW Herb Company, in Mesa, Arizona and Cecelia Avitable, of The Herb Corner, in Melbourne, Florida.

Location: 1040 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., conference room B. For more information, including a schedule of Dec. seminars, call 850-460-7897 or visit GetHealthyPensacola.com. See the calendar of events in this issue.

Flora Bama Farms Unites Farm-to-Table Community

hef Rudy Rudolph, executive chef of the Sunset Cork Room, in Gulf Shores, and Sandy Veilleux, one of the owners of Flora Bama Farms, in Pensacola, share a vision for the farm to be a hub where interest in the farm-to-table movement can flourish. Rudolph wants to provide his diners with the freshest, locally Flora Bama Farms 6404 Mobile Highway sourced ingredients, while Veilleux is a powerhouse of ideas and actions to promote local farmers. “We are passionate about the planet, about food, service, our customers and having a good time,” she says. “It is our deep belief that one should be able to find quality food, grown sustainably by local farmers, and share it with others in an inviting atmosphere that is comfortable and close by.” Together, they founded the nonprofit Four Blades of Grass to raise funds to pay area community supported agriculture (CSA) farmers to grow food for families in need, distribute the food, educate the community on how to best utilize the harvest fully and build relationships within the community. Rudolph explains, “Four Blades of Grass is a small group of food service professionals, concerned citizens and farmers, striving to eliminate hunger on the Gulf Coast, one child, one family, one school at a time, and to help local farmers implement sustainable community agriculture practices.” Veilleux has a good idea for bringing change to local farmers. She says, “I want them to start by bringing the farm to their family, first. Just buy one local food to share with their family. That’s where it all starts.” Locally Owned & Operated Farmer’s Market Buy Local, Buy Fresh, Buy Quality

Location: 6404 Mobile Hwy. For more information, call 850944-6911, email FloraBamaFarms@gmail.com or visit Facebook. com/FloraBamaFarmsOfPensacola. To donate to Four Blades of Grass, visit Facebook.com/FourBladesOfGrass.

Cost is $415, including workbook and materials. Discount for registration by Dec. 14. Gift certificates are available. Location: 2475 E. Nine Mile Rd. For more information, call 850-748-3149 or email KathyKHubbard@gmail.com.

Learn About Sleep Disorders and CPAP

he Sleep Support Group will meet from 5 to 6:30 p.m., December 4, in the West Florida Rehabilitation Institute conference room. The featured speaker will be Robert Dawkins, Ph.D., MPH, a certified sleep specialist with West Florida Hospital. During the session, Dawkins will make a presentation, Sleep Disorders and CPAP Therapy. Those with a suspected or confirmed sleep disorders are encouraged to attend, and family members are welcome. Support group participants may bring their continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices and masks to the meeting if they would like to have them checked, as well as learn how to join the online support group. The group meets on the first Tuesday of each month. Admission is free. Location: 8391 N. Davis Hwy., Pensacola. For registration (recommended), call 850-494-3212. For more information, visit WestFloridaHospital.com. natural awakenings

December 2012

newsbriefs Learn About Starting A Home Business

he University of West Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Brown Bag Lunch Series presents Cottage Food: Starting a Home-Based Food Business, with Dorothy C. Lee, CFCS, a family and consumer sciences agent with UFL/IFAS – Escambia County, from noon to 1 p.m., December 5, at the Small Business Development Center, in Pensacola. SBDC will advise participants how to sell homemade baked goods, candies, preserves and more to the general public. They will gain knowledge about the types of foods that can be produced from a home kitchen; licensing and labeling requirements; and how the products can be sold. Because the SBDC funding agency requires a minimum number of attendees, workshops that don’t meet attendance requirements may be cancelled. The SBDC at the University of West Florida is a member of the Florida Small Business Development Center Network, a nonprofit network of college and university-based centers providing entrepreneurs with high quality one-on-one consulting, management training and vital information they need to grow and prosper in a complex and competitive global environment.

Awaken Personal Energy and Contact Dolphin Energy

ttend a Dolphin Playshop with Cyndie LePori, from 7 to 9 p.m., December 13, at Soulstice Bodyworks, in Pensacola. Participants in the workshop will learn to awaken their own energy. Cyndie Lepori will lead the activities and meditations. Topics include learning how to keep personal space free and clear of negativity and how to utilize personal power to self-heal and heal others. Also, contact will be made with dolphin energy and their unconditional love and joy. Cost is $25/$55 sliding scale love offering. RSVP by Dec 5. Location: 12385 Sorrento Rd., Ste. C1. For more information, call 850-725-2330, email Soulsticebodyworks@gmail.com or visit SoulsticeBodyworks.MassageTherapy.com or Facebook. com/SoulsticeBodyworks.

After the Storm

Spirits Lift Despite Hurricane Sandy

2-12-12 (December 12) will be a beautiful time for transformational and healing energy on a global and personal level. AIIS Pranic Healing of Pensacola & Greater Gulf Coast is sponsoring a Planetary Peace “Twin Hearts” Meditation at noon, with facilitator Lori Thomas. Participants should arrive by 11:45 a.m. to practice some simple physical exercises to prepare the body to absorb the energy. This powerful meditation will be used to flush out negative emotional energies, allowing access to everyone’s life purpose and connection with the power within. Participants are asked to bring canned goods for Manna Food Bank.

fter one of the largest storms on record hit the Northeast, devastating the shorelines of New York and New Jersey and uprooting the status quo in surrounding states, locals saw a new kind of energy emerge among the populace. Kelly Martinsen, publisher of the Long Island edition of Natural Awakenings and a resident of Long Beach, New York, joined the corps of volunteers that are helping families and businesses dig out of the ruins of their once beautiful beach town. In turn, her magazine’s advertisers and neighboring publishers reached out to share their office space, homes and other heartfelt help to keep her own business afloat. “While I have lost much, I feel blessed to have lived through this event,” says Martinsen. “I was able to experience the wonderful nature of people helping people in the days after the storm.” Tina Woods, publisher of Natural Awakenings’ New York City edition, changed the role of her delivery truck from distributing magazines to carrying food to residents and volunteers assisting Gerritsen Beach neighborhoods, in Brooklyn. She also participated in recovery work along the Jersey Shore and collaborated with her advertisers to raise $1,000 for relief efforts. Woods observes, “In times like this, you know what it means to truly be local and look to the people immediately next to you to get by.”

Location: Unity of Pensacola, (use back door lower entrance), at 716 N. 9th Ave., Pensacola. For more information, call 850-221-2381 or visit PranicHealingOasis.com.

To join or support coordinated Hurricane Sandy relief efforts vetted by Charity Navigator, visit Tinyurl.com/JoinHurricane SandyRelief.

Admission is free, BYO lunch. Location: 401 E. Chase St., Ste. 100. For more information or preregistration (required), call 850-595-0063 or visit sbdc.uwf.edu.

Planetary Peace Meditation at Unity

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

Milton Antiques and Farm Leisure Learning Offers Integrative Medicine Program Boutique Grand Opening

Cost is $35. For reservations, call 850-474-3491 or enroll online at uwf.edu/leisurelearning. For more information, visit nwfnaturally.com.

To take part in the festivities by volunteering time to children’s activities, call Leslie at 850-712-8388. For more information, call Kyle Holley at 850-712-8788, email GoTuffyGo@yahoo. com. Tuffy is a real American quarter horse. Learn more at GoTuffyGo.com.

ntegrative medicine is where East meets West, making the best of both medical traditions available to address life’s challenges and improve overall health. The University of West Florida Leisure Studies Group is hosting a program that begins January 25, 2013, on their West Pensacola Campus, where participants will learn from local practitioners of Oriental medicine, acupuncture, whole food nutrition, homeopathy, Tai chi, mediation and cutting-edge healing modalities. Daralyn Chase, publisher of Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida magazine, will host the program. She has made it her mission over the past six years to provide insights and information about local practitioners, services and products that support a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. “There is keen interest in this subject in our area and I am excited about providing guest speakers who will answer audience questions and speak about their specialty field,” said Chase.

he new Milton Antiques and Farm Boutique, located at 6705 Berryhill Street, in Milton, will hold a grand opening celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m, December 1. Guests will meet local artists and vendors and say hello to Tuffy: A Real American Quarter Horse Hero. Artists onsite will lead several children’s activities that include face painting, pencil wrapping and more. Tour the old Rivenbark home and check out the art, jewelry, antiques and more that the boutique has to offer. Milton Antiques and Farm Boutique showcases exceptional artists such as Eleanor Williams, Jean Norris, C. Ann Ross, Bill Lester, Sally Miller, Rachel Ann Haarala, Splinter Harden, Pat Pitts and Linda Pillar, in addition to offering fine crafts, antiques and primitives. Proceeds from the store go toward funding the work of Tuffy: A Real American Quarter Horse Hero.

Whole House Conservation Solutions Peaden’s Comfort Diagnostic Analysis will provide you with performance data about these key areas in your home which conserves energy and saves you money: • Air Conditioning, Heating and Ductwork • Insulation, Caulking and Weatherstripping • Water Heating and Water Conservation • Electrical System Safety and Efficiency • Improved Indoor Air quality for a Healthier Home

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Ft. Walton Beach • Destin • Sandestin • Gulf Breeze

Also Serving Panama City • Crestview • Niceville • and Surrounding Areas FL license # cac 1814443 / cFc 1426968 / ec 13002463 natural awakenings

December 2012

newsbriefs

kudos

New Radio Program Champions Health and Wellness

atural Awakenings of Northwest Florida is sponsoring a radio show at 9:30 a.m. on two Mondays a month on 1620AM radio. Hosted by Publisher Daralyn Chase, the program’s content mirrors the healthy and sustainable living themes of the magazine. Chase will interview local newsmakers and experts to answer questions about their field of expertise. “The show is a perfect blend of our mission to provide information to the public on the healthy and green living industry, while supporting the local businesses that bring those services and products to our area,” explains Chase. The guest interviewee for the December 10 show will be Jordan Rubin, owner of Beyond Organic. Rubin will answer questions about organic topics such as the difference between grass-fed and green-fed beef, and how eating organic and green-fed meat can make a difference in one’s diet. Chase is offering a $100 gift certificate contest for callers on a question taken from the magazine’s current edition. “It’s a great prize, as the winner can spend it on any product or service they see in the magazine,” says Chase.

New Fort Walton Beach Certified Green Business Program

tarting in January 2013, local business owners will have the opportunity to let their customers know that they doing their part to make our community more sustainable by becoming a Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce Certified Green Business, allowing consumers to shop with confidence that rigorous criteria have been tested and met to avoid “greenwashing”, a term for inflated or misleading environmental claims. Becoming a part of this exciting program is easy and has a very low cost of entry. Businesses fill out and sign an electronic checklist that will be displayed on the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce website under the Environment Committee link and send it back to the Chamber for verification. If the business meets the 25 minimum sustainability measures and submits an application fee of $25, it will be certified as a Greater Fort Walton Beach Certified Green Business. Members are authorized to use the FWB Certified Green Business logo for their company’s website and will receive a Certified Green Business window sticker that clearly states the year of certification. For more information, call 244-8191 or visit fwbchamber.org.

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

eborah Daniels, Don Daniels and Arlene Carmichael, of Avalon Light Keepers, LLC., have trained at the Solas Academy and become certified light energy technicians through the board of Advanced Natural Health Sciences. Deborah states, “We can keep our clients informed on all the ways to increase circulation, decrease inflammation and assist with stress management. By using these cutting-edge LED lights, using proper pad placement and special settings, we can assist our clients to bring the body back to homeostasis and move towards wellness.” Light sessions are available at the Golden Almond Health Food Store, 339 Racetrack Rd. NW, in Ft. Walton Beach, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 850-424-8261 or visit AvalonLightkeepers.com.

Community Liaisons Hired

atural Awakenings of Northwest Florida has filled three new community liaison positions to provide the opportunity for businesses to learn more about becoming contributors to Natural Awakenings magazines, radio and television programs. They will also help local merchants and practitioners market themselves to the magazine’s 40,000 readers in Okaloosa, Walton and Bay counties. “Now, with two editions, we are seeking more local stories, news and events to cover. The liaison interviews will help us learn more about businesses of interest to our readers,” says Publisher Daralyn Chase. “We have grown tremendously this year, and I am delighted to be able to offer more people an opportunity to work with our magazine.” Emily Schultz, in Fort Walton Beach, will interview businesses in Okaloosa and Walton counties. She holds a degree in exercise science and teaches fitness classes part-time at the Fort Walton Beach Family YMCA. “I am learning so much about so many people—we have a great wellness community here!” says Schultz. Melisa Caporella, in Panama City Beach, will conduct interviews in Bay County. An experienced journalist, she is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle through exercise and nutrition. “I’ve always loved learning about natural health remedies and prefer them over traditional medicine,” says Caporella. Marie Perez, a Miami native, will interview businesses in the Pace, Milton and Crestview area. She has a background in publications and sales. While she enjoys traveling and scuba diving, Perez states, “I love to help others, and this is a great chance to do that.” Business owners interested in interviewing with a community liaison should contact Scott Chase at 850-687-0825 or email Scott@NWFNaturally.com.

www.NWFNaturally.com

healthbriefs A Wise Man’s Gift

for Arthritis One-Size Sufferers Meditation Does Not Fit All F

n intriguing study recently posted online by Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, suggests that new meditators are most likely to stick with the practice and reap its healthful benefits if they select methods with which they are most comfortable, rather than those that are most popular. In one of the first studies to compare meditation techniques head-to-head, author Adam Burke, a professor of health education at San Francisco State University and the director of its Institute for Holistic Health Studies, taught 247 participants four popular methods—mantra, mindfulness, Zen and qigong visualization. He asked them to choose which they preferred to practice at home for six weeks before techniques were evaluated. The simpler methods, mantra and mindfulness, each were preferred by 31 percent of study participants. Zen and qigong were selected by about 22 percent and 15 percent, respectively. Burke says the results showed the value of providing people new to meditation simpler and more accessible methods, and also emphasized that no one technique is best for everyone. He hopes to see more comparative meditation studies, especially to determine if particular methods are better at addressing specific health issues such as addiction. “If that’s the case,” he advises, “healthcare professionals would be able to guide patients toward techniques that will be most effective for them. Additional studies are also needed to determine if there is a way to predict which method will be best suited for any particular individual.”

rankincense, an aromatic resin obtained from Boswellia trees native to Africa, is an age-old herbal remedy that may help alleviate the pain of arthritis, according to scientists at Cardiff University, in Wales. “The search for new ways of relieving the symptoms of inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis is a long and difficult one,” says Dr. Emma Blain, who led the research with coinvestigators Professor Vic Duance, from Cardiff University’s School of Biosciences, and Dr. Ahmed Ali, of the Compton Group. The team believes they have been able to demonstrate that treatment with an extract of Boswellia frereana—a rare frankincense species—inhibits the production of key inflammatory molecules and helps prevent the breakdown of cartilage tissue that causes the condition. The African Somali people have long used extracts of frankincense as a traditional remedy for arthritis. “Our research achieved the use of innovative chemical extraction techniques to determine the active ingredient in frankincense,” says Ali. “We will now be able to further characterize the chemical entity and compare its success against other anti-inflammatory drugs used for treating the condition.”

Giving Begets Happiness at Every Age

“T

o give is better than to receive,” is a maxim that appears to hold true even for the very young. A new study coauthored by three psychologists at Canada’s University of British Columbia observes that giving makes toddlers happier. The study, published in PLOS One, an online journal of the Public Library of Science, found that toddlers younger than 2 were happier when giving treats to others than when receiving them. They were also happier when they gave their own treats away, rather than an identical treat that didn’t belong to them.

natural awakenings

December 2012

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

Smog Begone

Dramatic Decline in Los Angeles Air Pollution

Nutty Way to Help Preserve Cognition

alnut consumption is associated with better memory scores and cognitive function, according to recent findings published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. In the Prevención con Dieta Mediterrnáea study, funded by the Spanish Ministry of Health, results show that a Mediterranean diet, supplemented with olive oil or one ounce of mixed nuts, half of which are walnuts, is more beneficial than a low-fat diet when it comes to body weight, blood pressure, insulin resistance and systemic inflammation. The nutrient-dense walnuts provide antioxidants and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid. Both are key nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties that help protect brain cells from the oxidative damage associated with cognitive decline.

Legendary late-night TV host Johnny Carson made the thick, automobile-generated smog that covered Los Angeles the butt of jokes for decades, but times have changed. In the past 50 years, California’s Los Angeles Basin has shown a 98 percent decrease in levels of some vehicle-related air pollutants even as area denizens now burn three times as much gasoline and diesel fuel. Between 2002 and 2010 alone, the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOC) dropped by half, according to a new study led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and published in the Journal of Geophysical Research-Atmospheres. “The reason is simple. Cars are getting cleaner,” says Carsten Warneke, a NOAA-funded scientist with the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Primarily emitted from the vehicle tailpipes, VOCs are a key ingredient in formation of ground-level ozone, which at high levels can harm people’s lungs and damage crops and other plants. The magnitude of the drop in VOC levels was surprising, although it doesn’t mean that ozone levels have dropped as steeply, because the air chemistry is complex. Levels of ozone pollution in the basin are down, but don’t yet meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. Warneke expects the decrease in VOC emissions by cars to continue, given that engine efficiency continues to improve and older, higher polluting vehicles will be taken off the roads. Source: American Geophysical Union (Tinyurl.com/SmogBegone)

Coming Clean

Environmental Hall of Shame From shampoo, deodorant and toothpaste to laundry detergent and window cleaners, hundreds of chemicals of unknown origin and effect can be found everywhere in our daily lives. Some are regulated by government agencies, but many are not; some cleaning products, for example, are not even required to list their ingredients on labels. The research team at the nonprofit consumer watchdog Environmental Working Group has released a new Cleaners Hall of Shame database (Tinyurl.com/CleanerHallOfShame) that ranks more than 2,000 household cleaners by how hazardous their ingredients are and how much information is on their labels. Many products contain ingredients known to cause asthma or are contaminated with carcinogens. Even so-called “green” products aren’t necessarily any better. Many of them boast of ingredients made from plants, rather than petroleum, but there is little or no safety data for some plant-based ingredients. A truly green product poses few risks to health or the environment and transparently informs users of its content.

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ecotip Green Christmas Holiday Planet Savers

Here are some fresh ways to tweak family traditions for a greener holiday this and every year. Incorporate local, sustainable cuisine into the family feast. Ingredients for a traditional holiday dinner can travel up to 30,000 miles. Instead, show support for local community farmers and reduce food transportation miles by choosing a heritage turkey or meatless entrée. Stellar complements may include organic cranberry jelly, mulled apple cider or wine from an area farm, orchard or vineyard.

Bird Brains

When the Warm Get Going Global climate change is a real, measurable phenomenon, according to a new study, based on the National Audubon Society’s North American Christmas Bird Count. It found that avian species have taken decades to adjust their ranges northward in response to warming winters. Frank La Sorte, a researcher at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, in Ithaca, New York, and lead author of a study supported by the National Science Foundation, says in the Journal of Animal Ecology that because birds are highly mobile and migrate north and south with the changing seasons, they are better able to shift their ranges than less mobile, non-migrating species, such as amphibians. “It makes sense that species move slower than the rate at which climate is changing,” says La Sorte. “Many of them need to follow a prey base and a type of vegetation, or they need certain kinds of habitat that will create corridors for movement. Species are responding under their own time frame.” The challenge for humans is daunting. “We have to give species the opportunity to respond by providing corridors for movement and longterm maintenance of those corridors,” says La Sorte. “That requires cooperation across political boundaries.” Source: ABC News

Adopt or recycle the Christmas tree. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as many as 33 million live-cut Christmas trees are purchased each year in North America, and most end up in landfills. Fortunately, Christmas tree adoption services like Central California’s Rent a Living Christmas Tree are popping up across the country, allowing them to go on living. The potted trees can be rented and delivered. If tree adoption services are not yet available locally, make sure to recycle a live holiday tree so it’s turned into landscape mulch for reuse as ground cover to hinder weeds and nourish plantings. Reduce energy costs through efficient cooking. Wait to fire up the oven until the heritage turkey or organic ham is ready to go in; preheating is unnecessary for these slow-roasting items. For baked goods, opt for glass or ceramic pans, which allow cooking time to remain the same while lowering the heat by about 25 degrees. Another energy-saving trick is to place stovetop cookware on the smallest burner possible; more heat will embrace the pan, while less is lost to the surrounding air. A six-inch pan on an eight-inch burner typically wastes more than 40 percent of the energy generated. Crockpots work well for serving other small family dinners during the busy holiday season or anytime; an entire meal requires about 17 cents worth of electricity. At cleanup time, load up the dishwasher fully. One load of dishes scrubbed in a dishwashing machine uses 37 percent less water than washing the same dishes by hand. Send plant-able holiday cards. According to CalRecycle, an estimated 2.6 billion holiday cards are sold each year in the United States, enough to fill a football field 10 stories high. This year, instead of the usual snail mail, send a bouquet of flowers for the price of a stamp. Recipients can plant a GreenFieldPaper.com grow-a-note holiday card in the ground and see wildflowers bloom. For plant-able holiday cards that can be personalized with a corporate logo, BotanicalPaperworks.com offers card sets and party favors.

natural awakenings

December 2012

Community Spotlight

Stacey Vann Lives the Mahabhuta Vision by Jude Forsyth

Photos by Stephen Dunn Moody, Dunn Media

Gary Young and Stacey Vann

ore than a year ago, Stacey Vann, awakened by a dream at 4 a.m., clearly knew what she would be doing the next year. “It was so clear to me how I was supposed unite all the yoga communities in the region. I visualized a neutral space to celebrate and heal with yoga, warm water and sun, great food and kids and so much more,” explains Vann. Then Vann wrote her vision into existence so she could inspire the regional yoga community to join her in her vision to “celebrate yoga, music, art and the environment; elevate consciousness, unify local communities, create abundance through mutual support, education and conscious consumerism, and inspire you to be great.” With that, the first annual Mahabhuta Yoga festival came into being, and Vann sprang into action to make her vision come true. AAAAs a yoga teacher at Abhaya Yoga Center, in Pensacola, Vann had a busy practice of her own, but persisted in making the festival a reality. “There was such a wonderful response as I reached out the yoga communities Kim Lee and Aaron Lind 14

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across the Gulf Coast,” says Vann. “Most things happened pretty easily, at the right time, wherever I was in the project.” The inaugural Mahabhuta Yoga Festival, co-sponsored by Natural Awakenings of NW Florida, was held from November 16 to 18, at the Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, in Pensacola. More than 20 regional and local yoga instructors and studio owners provided classes, music, healing arts, food, kid’s activities and an artisan village. Registration topped 400; in addition, more than 100 children enjoyed activities like yoga swings in the trees and marionettes. “We had people from across the Gulf Coast, including Texas. We had attendees from Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin, Illinois, even New York,” says Vann. “Whenever we would ask students to raise their hands if they were from our area, only about a third of the group did. The warm water and the many activities drew more people from much further than I thought.”

Water Studio Yoga Workshop

Vann chose the element of water for this first festival, because 2012 is the Chinese Year of the Water Dragon, and she wanted to honor the sacred waters of the Gulf of Mexico and bring healing to all the waters along the Emerald Coast. She says, “Waters carries energy, it is a conduit of awareness, and that is part of the resiliency of our area.” Participants honored the environmental and spiritual water theme by bringing their own bottles and filling them with free, alkalinized Kangen water. “We kept the water flowing for everyone without adding more plastic into our environment,” states Vann.

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Along with flowing water, Vann made sure the yoga movements flowed constantly throughout the three-day event. Participants had many choices of yoga levels, practices and instructors, in several choices of rooms, including the main studio that held art by the visionary artist Geoglyphiks, aka George Atherton, Sean Johnson and The Wild Lotus Band the creator of the festival poster. “His art brought its own energy and peacefulness in to the studio,” says Vann. Friday night provided the first insight for Vann. “I was so inspired by how the group created the medicine wheel Friday evening—we set the intention for the weekend, and then it came about as it was supposed to,” she says. One exciting surprise for Vann was the unexpected visit of D. Gary Young, founder and president of Young Living Essential Oils. “It was extraordinary that he changed his whole world to be here to share with our group,” explains Vann, also a Living Oils representative. Young co-taught sessions about essential oils, and attendees enjoyed a drop of lavender oil as they started their yoga classes. Perhaps the most challenging part of the long weekend for Vann was trying to keep herself well for the event. “I was sleeping two hours a night; I had great focus and energy,” she says. “I was so blessed to have dedicated crew and family members who kept me well fed, hydrated and supported throughout the event.” Food at the festival also followed a healthy theme. Many local groups offered gourmet vegetarian cuisine, including Cafe Organic (FWB), End of the Line, Beach Pops and Wild Roots (Pensacola), Raw and Juicy (Seaside) and Sweetwater Baking Company (Floyd). “If some of the attendees weren’t vegetarian before, they probably had their eyes open this weekend. The food was excellent,” says Vann. Saturday night offered an evening of music with the transcendental sounds of The Human Experience, Kaminanda & Govinda. “Yogis are pretty mellow anyway, but

it was perfect for the mood of the group,” says Vann. The festival may be over for this year, but its memory will live on when Vann donates a portion of the proceeds to the Mahabhuta Yoga Foundation to provide each participating studio with a scholarship fund for Gulf Coast residents or regional teachers to participate in yoga teacher trainings, workshops and continuing education. “If they grow, so will the festival grow—every year, more new students and instructors will enjoy Mahabhuta,” explains Vann. Plans for next year might not see many changes, because Vann feels the festival was close to flawless this time around. She added she might keep the after party onsite next year and add video streaming of the classes. A tired and satisfied Vann shares what was her most inspirational point of the festival, “There was a moment when I found myself just watching it all unfold, just like I saw it, just like I dreamed it; it was so true to my vision, and that gave me such a peaceful feeling.” To attend yoga sessions with Stacey Vann, visit AbhayaYoga Center.com To see pictures and read comments about the festival, visit Facebook.com/Mahabhuta. Pictures of the festival will be available on Mahabhutayogafestival.com soon.

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December 2012

Practitioner Spotlight Dr. Bawa is Dedicated to Innovation

r. Nitin Bawa, practicing in Santa Rosa Beach, Destin and now Panama City, provides general medical services with a special focus on hormones and supplements for anti-aging. Patients seeking his services have a wide variety to choose from, including medical weight-loss programs and aesthetic services, with the comfort of knowing that he also provides acute care. Bawa has a special interest in bio-identical hormones and supports the use of complementary and holistic medicine. He uses natural treatments whenever possible and attends numerous conferences, including those of the American Association of Anti-aging Medicine. Bawa states, “I believe in providing the highest quality of care in a caring, efficient setting while integrating natural, holistic and alternative medicine concepts that have scientific merit.” The doctor believes in bringing innovative programs and state-of-theart equipment to his patients. He is

Bawa matriculated from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Medical School in 2001. He did his residency in internal medicine at UIC and holds a master’s degree in health services management and finance from Loyola University, in Chicago. While completing a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Northwestern University, he did research on Alzheimer’s disease and co-authored a research paper published in the journal Experimental Neurology. He also did an externship at the Kennedy Space Center, and has participated in research with flight surgeons. He has also volunteered with the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

one of the first in the area to start using genetic testing as a routine part of a complete physical. He uses saliva testing, rather than blood testing, to check hormone levels, and wants to help make bio-identical hormone replacement therapy available to everyone by keeping it cost-effective. Bawa’s interest in weight-loss treatments resulted in the development of diet plans to help people lose weight. “I utilize varied methods of weight loss while customizing treatments, based on each person’s biochemical and lifestyle information,” he says. He is one of the first to incorporate the Zerona weight-loss laser treatment in the community and introduce metabolic testing. He chooses from numerous options including medications such as phentermine and hormones such as HCG to help with imbalances. Lipotropic injections are also used. “Different methods can be used to boost growth hormone production, making it even easier to shed extra pounds,” explains the doctor. As a runner and swimmer, Bawa has an interest in sports medicine and nutrition for athletes. He administers tests to optimize performance for athletes and can advise on supplements for the improvement of athletic performance.

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Are Food Sensitivities Making Us Sick? by Nitin Bawa, M.D.

his is the time of the year that we often overeat and feel bloated and miserable. However, many people feel bad after eating even small amounts of certain foods. Just like some people get a rash with certain skin care products, individuals can have an allergic reaction to something that is eaten. Because we cannot look inside our gut easily, it is very difficult to determine exactly what is going on and what the sensitive foods are. If we put something on our skin that does not agree with us we know it fairly soon, because we get a rash and can see the difference. The same kind of process occurs in the digestive tract. About three-fourths of all immune cells are found in the gut, where the body has to fight against bacteria and decide if certain foods are not good for us and should be eliminated rapidly in the form of diarrhea. These immune cells are helpful to most people because they help ward off the numerous bacteria that are in our intestine. However, for some people, they go haywire.

Many people have food allergies and insensitivities that are never detected. When the immune cells in the gut are irritated by some foods, they produce inflammatory cytokines that cause inflammation in the body and can contribute to pain. There is a unique test called the ALCAT that attempts to answer this question. This is a blood test where white cells from blood are grown in a tube and exposed to extracts from different foods. It is possible to look at the white cells under a microscope and see which foods cause the white cells to get irritated, or degranulated. The ALCAT test checks the cells against a few hundred foods, chemicals and preservatives and gives a report that describes for the client which foods may cause a mild, moderate or severe allergy reaction. The report also gives a recommended rotational diet that helps gradually rotate some of the sensitive foods into the body. Dr. Bawa practices in Santa Rosa Beach, Destin and Panama City. He contributes to local newspapers and his articles can be found on the Internet. For more information, call 850-424-7320 or visit DrBawa.com.

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December 2012

It’s All About We Conscious Evolution: Why We’re Better Together by Linda Sechrist

fter decades of studying issues of environmental destruction, poverty and war, Malcolm Hollick, Ph.D., author of The Science of Oneness: A New Worldview for the Twenty-First Century, concluded in 2006 that a better future for humanity requires a more holistic worldview. It must be one that reflects the evidence of both new sciences and established spiritual traditions, all of which point to a deep unity, or Oneness, the grand reality underlying and often belying the superficial testimony of the senses. Hollick concluded, “We become open to the experience of this unity only when we recognize at the deepest intuitive level that we do not exist as separate selves.” The founder of the Findhorn College Foundation, in Scotland, recognized that while the old worldview has disintegrated, the concrete of a new one has not yet set. He also observed how the acceleration of scientific findings— advancing knowledge and understanding of the universe, as well as the meaning and purpose of life—would continue to influence the general worldview. Within a decade of the publication of his book, hard scientific evidence across many disciplines—particularly physics and biology—as well as pioneering ideas and anecdotal evidence presented by leading philosophers and

authors, affirmed the existence of a reality in which everything is connected and linked in a coherent whole. Such thinking further revealed that evolution has equipped humans with genetic wiring for co-creation, cooperation and collaboration. Martin A. Nowak, a professor of biology and mathematics at Harvard University and co-author of Super Cooperators: Altruism, Evolution, and Why We Need Each Other to Succeed, explains that most great innovations of life have resulted not from competition, but cooperation, the real “master architect” of evolution. Nowak believes that figuring out how cooperation comes about and breaks down is the key to human survival as a species. Books such as The Bond: Connecting Through the Space Between Us, by Lynne McTaggart, a scientific researcher and award-winning journalist, and The Golden Motorcycle Gang: A Story of Transformation, co-authored by motivational speaker Jack Canfield, are helping individuals to see through the illusions of the old “survival of the fittest” and “I win, you lose” paradigms into one expressed in terms of connectedness and relationships. This new “Me-We” thinking and way of being has been spreading; it now informs everything from enlightened environ-

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mental stewardship to economics, as well as health and spiritual well-being.

How Community Works Canfield emphasizes the valuable lesson of collaboration and cooperation he learned while working for W. Clement Stone, a philanthropist and self-help author: When working together, focus on overlapping goals and interests, and not on differences. In Chicago, Illinois, where the Eat Fresh Eat Local movement sparks successful collaborations, the focus is on food, rather than issues of race, sex or economic disparity. There, hundreds of people are growing food together in communal spaces on city-owned land, privately owned empty lots and rooftops, as well as in school gardens, food forests and urban farm sites. “Self-reliant, community-operated urban farms and the food centers that retail the produce to residents in surrounding neighborhoods—some in the city’s most isolated and impoverished communities— are economic drivers that create jobs,” says Erika Allen, projects manager of Chicago’s Growing Power office. The daughter of national organization founder Will Allen notes that local workshops resemble a cross-section of the world. “Participants from different countries, cultures and economic levels come together for three meals a day, where we connect, share perspectives and learn from one another.” Another successful initiative, Building a Healthier Chicago (BHC), brings together the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Office of the Regional Health Administrator of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Chicago Medical Society and the Institute of Medicine of Chicago. The BHC agribusiness project develops and maintains a system of more accessible food supply, distribution and markets where people live, work, play, pray and learn. Neighbors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, organized park cleanups with the long-range goal of replacing crime and litter with learning. Now, Riverside Park, once an area of urban blight, has both a college-level field research station and grade school outdoor classroom, offering innovative school, adult and community programs operated by the Urban Ecology Center (UEC). Programs serve 44 schools and have spawned two branches in Washington Park and Menomonee Valley to

“The transformation of our society, world and universe starts and ends with the transformation of ourselves… and in this way to co-create with others and Spirit a person, a community, a civilization, a planet and a cosmos that are whole and harmonious.” ~ Malcolm Hollick serve residents in those areas. The UEC’s latest project, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Milwaukee, the River Revitalization Foundation, Milwaukee County Parks, private businesses and local landowners, is an arboretum that will protect and restore 40 acres of land for native species and wildlife habitat along the Milwaukee River. “With the creation of the Milwaukee Rotary Centennial Arboretum, southeastern Wisconsin has a new, biologically diverse space for growing future environmental stewards,” says UEC Executive Director Ken Leinbach. He particularly likes creating spaces and resources that give people that wouldn’t normally connect a place to bump into one another.

Expanding Worldview College settings are similarly intended to encourage stimulating and expansive dialogue among diverse populations. At Mount Holyoke College, in South Hadley, Massachusetts, recent environmental study grads Dana Rubin and Hannah

Blackmer met Frances Moore Lappé when she visited to share the message of her book EcoMind: Changing the Way We Think, to Create the World We Want. As a result, the pair embraced the need to shift their view of the world away from looming negatives to focus on creating positive connections and meaningful relationships that recognize life’s interdependence and fuel constructive change. After more research, the duo built a simple website named ConvenientResilience.com and created a blog before commencing a coast-to-coast, 100-day, solutions-oriented journey last summer. They posted nearly 30 “webisodes” of heartfelt interactions with individuals and organizations with stories to tell, like the group at 2100 Lakeside Emergency Men’s Shelter, in Cleveland, Ohio, that is using small-scale, practical and cost-effective solutions to lessen their impact on the environment. “The personal stories we heard affirm what we learned from Frances—that it’s possible to locally solve global problems together,” advise the sojourners, who travel in a grease-powered car. “Learn to think beyond negative thought traps that engender fear,” advises Lappé. “Thinking, ‘There isn’t enough to go around, so I have to grab what I can now,’ for instance, focuses on separateness and lack, which is precisely what got us into the state we are in.”

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mindfulness to foster deeper connections, authentic conversations and outsidethe-box ideas, all contributing to a more enlightened collective intelligence. One’s own new world perspective can even emerge as a result of a dark night of the soul, as Patricia Ariadne, Ph.D., author of Drinking the Dragon, has observed with clients that have undergone a personal metamorphosis as a result of the economic downturn. “Often, the entire process of transformation indicates a spiritual initiation—a renewal or rebirth—that acts as an induction into a level of expanded consciousness and new relationship with Spirit,” remarks Ariadne. “True spiritual progress inevitably leads to a desire to be of greater service to others, to go from ‘Me to We,’ which I believe is our mandate for the 21st century.” Living mindfully can literally change our brains, states Jon KabatZinn, Ph.D., in the introduction to A Mindful Nation, by Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan, which reports on the supporting science. “Mindfulness… can improve our capacity for perspective taking and decision making, and enhance our emotional intelligence and our ability to act with clarity and wisdom, alone and in concert with others.” Kabat-Zinn is the founding director of the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care and Society, at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, in Worcester. “A peaceful revolution is being led by ordinary citizens across our nation,”

confirms Ryan. “At the core of it is mindfulness—finding ways to slow the mind, pay attention to the present moment and see how you are connected to others and can work in a spirit of cooperation to get things done.” The inner impulse to recognize the deeper unity of all life and sense the reality of Oneness is bubbling up within individuals, small groups and organizations, and finding expression in writings and teachings, according to Barbara Marx Hubbard, author of Birth 2012 and Beyond: Humanity’s Great Shift to the Age of Conscious Evolution. Individuals that feel compelled to join with others in expanding their consciousness to help foster systemic change and a culture of a higher order are invited to find a compatible group. Hubbard offers webcast training for Agents of Conscious Evolution (ACE), now 3,000 members strong; Craig Hamilton, founder of Integral Enlightenment, provides an online telecourse called Awakening to an Evolutionary Relationship to Life. “Evolutionaries sense that we are facing a critical moment in the unfolding of our human story and feel called to create pathways to a better future,” says Hamilton. He notes that the 35,000 participants in his most recent introduction to his webcast were interested in where they could find a supportive community of kindred spirits committed to living life on the same level. He states, “We instinctively know that we can accomplish more together.” A partnership with The Shift

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Network, which empowers a global movement of those intent on creating an evolutionary shift in consciousness, has enabled Hubbard, a featured sage in the documentary Awaken Soul to Soul, and her ACEs to launch a global initiative to mark the inauguration of a sustainable planetary civilization on December 22. Thousands of individuals are now working in collective hubs across the United States to prepare for the Planetary Birth Day celebration. An initial concern for many individuals seeking to experience Oneness is, “What happens to my identity?” Christopher M. Bache, Ph.D., professor emeritus in the department of philosophy and religious studies at Youngstown State University, in Ohio, reassures us that within the matrix of connectivity, individuality is not suffocated, but paradoxically liberated into deeper forms of self-expression. “While opening to the collective fields that surround us melts the boundaries of the private ego, bringing about the ‘death of self’ noted in spiritual literature, as the ego dies, a deeper form of individuality is born—not an isolated individuality, but one that thrives in subtle give-and-take,” explains the author of The Living Classroom: Teaching and Collective Consciousness. While the idea of a future in which American and other cultures reflect oneness can seem distant and idealistic, it is already present in South Africa’s Xhosa community in the form of Ubuntu, a worldview which means, “I am what I am because of who we all are.” According to South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu, recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, Ubuntu iterates the essence of being human and speaks to the fact that it’s impossible to exist as human beings in isolation. We are people through other people. “We think of ourselves far too frequently as just individuals, separated from one another, whereas you are connected, and what you do affects the whole world,” he observes. “When you do well, it spreads out; it is for the whole of humanity.” Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. For more information and in-depth interviews on It’s All About We, visit ItsAllAboutWe.com.

greenliving

temperature or place it in the freezer to use as a cooling or freezer pack. For aromatherapy, mix the rice with a couple of drops of lavender essential oil before filling. At room temperature, the scented version doubles as a soothing eye pillow.

Seeds to Throw and Grow

Homemade and Heartfelt Do-It-Yourself Stocking Stuffers by Meredith Montgomery

“W

ith the volume of household waste soaring 34 percent beyond normal levels in the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day it’s particularly important to remain ecoconscious during the holidays,” says Anna Getty, author of I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas. “It’s easy to get so wrapped up in buying gifts and decorations that eco-friendliness goes out the window.” This year, consider giving the family’s stocking stuffers a sustainable makeover by gifting homemade items. Getty observes, “Useful, thoughtful homemade gifts can be really sweet… and green.”

A Jar for Everyone With a ribbon and label of instructions, inexpensive canning jars and glass containers filled with homemade goodies can become creative and practical gifts for everyone on the list. Sugar body scrubs offer a simple and affordable home spa experience. Combine two cups of sugar with one cup of oil (sweet almond, grapeseed or olive) and add 10 to 20 drops of essential oils to scent. Try a combination of rosemary and peppermint for an invigorating morning scrub or lavender and vanilla to unwind later. Fill jars with ingredients for some simmering home aromatherapy. Labels instruct recipients to boil the contents in a small saucepan of water, and then reduce heat to simmer, adding water as needed. Combine evergreen sprigs,

cinnamon sticks, cloves, dried apple peels and citrus rinds for a festive holiday scent. Lemon, rosemary and vanilla afford a refreshing alternative. For family grill masters, obtain bulk spices for barbecue rubs at a health food store. A basic recipe from DadCooksDinner.com combines four tablespoons paprika, four tablespoons brown sugar, two tablespoons chili powder, one tablespoon freshly ground black pepper, two teaspoons garlic powder, two teaspoons onion powder and one teaspoon dried thyme.

Upcycled and Sewn Experienced crafters can follow online guidelines to upcycle fabric scraps and unwanted clothing and linens. An old sweatshirt or sweater becomes an iPad case and colorful T-shirts morph into tote bags and scarves. Creating therapeutic hot/cold bags can be fairly simple, even without a sewing machine. Cut a 16-byeight-inch piece of flannel, cotton, fleece or terrycloth and fold it in half with the finished side inside, lining up the edges. Using sturdy thread, sew a quarter-inch seam along the open edges, leaving a half-inch opening. Carefully turn the fabric rightside-out through the opening and fill the bag three-quarters full with long grain white rice. Tuck in the opening’s unfinished edges and sew closed. To treat aches and pains, the giftee can microwave the bag for 30 seconds at a time until achieving the desired

Guerilla Gardening’s (GuerillaGardening.org) recipe for seed bombs makes fun gifts for gardeners and nature lovers. Choose flower and herb seeds that grow well in each recipient’s region. Combine five parts clay soil or potter’s powder (from art supply stores), one part compost and one part seeds, with water to bind. Form the mixture into balls approximately one inch in diameter and let dry for one to two days in an empty egg carton. Wrap seed bombs in recycled paper or cloth tied with a ribbon and instructions. Toss them in the yard or garden and watch them grow.

Creative and Kid-Friendly Enlist Santa’s elves to assemble a fort-building kit for children, inspired by Saltwater-Kids.com. Stock a pillowcase with two sheets, clothespins, plastic clamps, rope, suction cups and a flashlight. Tie up the pillowcase with rope and a cute label, and watch old linens come to life with a little imagination. Give broken and unwanted crayons a second life with fun-shaped recycled crayons. Fill greased muffin tins or cookie cutters on a foil-lined cookie sheet with broken crayon pieces (paper removed). Bake at 150 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes or until the crayons melt. Allow them to cool completely before removing from the molds. “I like to encourage families to focus on creating memories and rituals as a way to avoid excessive holiday consumption,” says Getty, who is renowned for her home-cooked gifts packaged in reusable tins with recycled bows. She notes, “These become a tradition that people know and love.” Such heartfelt gifts open the door to special moments and memories celebrating the true spirit of the season. Meredith Montgomery is the publisher of Natural Awakenings of Mobile/ Baldwin, AL. Connect at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com. Holiday waste report source: epa.gov

natural awakenings

December 2012

consciouseating

HEALTHY HOLIDAY BAKING

A Cornucopia of Delicious Treats

here’s nothing so comforting as the scent and taste of homebaked treats. To fill a home with cheer, try these delectably healthy recipes. Some are gluten- or dairy-free, others pack less butter and sweeteners (thus fewer calories) than their typical counterparts, and a few are vegan (containing no animal products, including honey). All are perfect for holiday celebrations, hostess gifts or exchanges.

Apple-Walnut Coffee Cake

Here’s a favorite yummy treat for festive brunches. Guests and family will never guess that this decadent indulgence contains much less butter and sugar than a typical coffee cake. Yields 16 servings (239 calories per serving) ¼ cup light brown sugar 2 tsp ground cinnamon 2¼ cups whole-wheat pastry flour (divided) ¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter at room temperature 1 cup maple sugar 2 eggs ¼ cup plus 1 Tbsp low-fat buttermilk (1 percent) 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced ½ cup walnuts, chopped and toasted Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Butter pan sides and top of parchment. 22

In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, cinnamon and ¼ cup flour. Cut in ¼ cup cold butter until mixture becomes crumbly and resembles a streusel topping. Refrigerate until ready to use. In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together ½ cup room-temperature butter and maple sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Beat in buttermilk and vanilla. Sift remaining 2 cups flour, baking soda and salt into egg-butter mixture. Mix until just combined. Fold in apples and walnuts. Pour batter into prepared pan and sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cool before releasing from pan.

Vegan Trail-Mix Cookies

These crunchy-chewy cookies are perfect for snowshoe hikes or cross-country ski trips. Yields 36 servings (135 calories per serving)

photos by Stephen Blancett

baking powder and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together water, oil and vanilla. Add wet mixture to dry. Mix to combine. Fold in chocolate chips, pecans and cherries. Scoop batter by 2 tablespoons each onto a baking sheet, pushing in any stray pieces. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool for 2 minutes and then remove to a rack to cool completely.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Muffins

These lightly sweetened, butter-free muffins evoke the scents and tastes of the holidays. With fewer carbs and calories than regular sugar, the concentrated fruit-juice reduction also adds moistness; look for all-natural options, such as Wax Orchards’ Fruit Sweet. Yields 16 servings (145 calories per serving)

¾ cup all-purpose flour ¾ cup whole-wheat pastry flour 1 cup carrot, shredded 1½ cups unsweetened coconut, shredded 1½ cups natural cane sugar 1½ cups rolled oats 1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt ½ cup water ½ cup canola oil 1 Tbsp vanilla extract 1 cup grain-sweetened chocolate chips 1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted 1 cup cherries, dried

1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour 1 tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt ½ tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground ginger ½ tsp ground allspice 1 cup pumpkin purée 2 /3 cup fruit-juice reduction (or light agave nectar) ½ cup canola oil ¼ cup coconut milk ½ cup unsweetened coconut, shredded 1 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted ¾ cup dried cranberries

Preheat oven to 350° F. Mix together flours, carrot, coconut, sugar, oats,

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 12cup muffin tin with baking cups.

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Sift together flours, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and allspice in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together pumpkin purée, fruit-juice reduction or agave, oil and coconut milk. Stir wet mixture into dry until just incorporated (do not overmix). Fold in coconut, walnuts and dried cranberries. Divide batter evenly among muffin tins. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

Healthy Red Velvet Cupcakes

These moist cupcakes use spelt flour for a lighter texture, more protein and fewer calories than wheat flour. Avoid artificial colors by using vegetable-based food coloring, or make your own. Yields 8 to 10 servings (352 calories per serving) Cupcakes 1½ cups white spelt flour 1 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed) ½ cup natural cane sugar ½ cup melted coconut oil (or safflower oil) 2 eggs at room temperature ¾ cup buttermilk at room temperature 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp lemon juice 3 tsp natural red food coloring Agave Cream-Cheese Frosting 8 oz Neufchâtel (reduced-fat) cream cheese at room temperature 3 Tbsp plus 1 tsp agave nectar 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp cornstarch Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a muffin tin with 8 to 10 cupcake liners or coat with cooking spray. Place flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Sift cocoa powder into the bowl. Whisk until well blended. Place sugar, oil and eggs in a separate large bowl. Whisk until smooth. Add buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice and food coloring. Whisk lightly until combined. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir just until mixture comes together. Do not overmix. Gently spoon batter into muffin cups. Bake 10 minutes and test with a toothpick. If it doesn’t come out clean, turn pans and bake another 3 to 5 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on rack for 2 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely before frosting. (Or store in an airtight container until ready to frost. Do not refrigerate, which dries them out.) Beat cream cheese, agave and vanilla together. Sift cornstarch over mixture and blend until smooth. Frost cupcakes just before serving.

Healthy-er Sugar Cookies Yields 24 cookies Ingredients: 1½ cups white, whole wheat or spelt flour ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt ½ cup evaporated cane juice or cane sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 3 Tbsp almond or skim milk ¼ cup unsalted sweet cream butter 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce Instructions: Combine wet ingredients. Cream/blend in sugar. Add in dry ingredients. Do not over-stir. Form into balls and smush onto cookie sheet (do not grease). Bake at 350 F for 7 to10 minutes (7 is chewy, 10 is crispy). Note: Wheat flour cookies tend to have a grainier texture. If batter is too dry, add more milk a splash at a time. For an added twist, add in 1 Tbsp of honey or cinnamon! Batter makes about 24 rounded teaspoonful cookies. Happy Holidays! Contributed by Emily Schultz, community liaison for Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida.

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December 2012

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Making the Next Leap in Consciousness by Darby Neptune

pocalyptic predictions have been around for centuries, and this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mayan calendar â&#x20AC;&#x153;end of the worldâ&#x20AC;? scenario is no different. And yet, a new era is coming that could be as dramatic as the shift from the Dark Ages to the Renaissance. There have been many transitions that mark our progress as humans, including from tribal to agrarian, industrial, technological and information eras. The current good news is the awakening of humanity to the next level of consciousness. In Spiral Dynamics, by Don Beck and Christopher Cowan, the next two levels of consciousness are expected to unfold very rapidly. These are the first two levels that

move us from survival mode to a more spiritual being state. Awakened humans with this consciousness are now able to understand, appreciate and communicate with anyone still functioning at the prior levels. They also experience the world as an interconnected whole. Whether in medicine or family therapy, an issue is viewed as connected to and impacted by multiple factors. Thus, the solutions will be multi-pronged and more effective. For decades, futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard has predicted a new Universal Human and a new consciousness that focuses on issues in new and creative ways. She notes that we are the generation that is finally aware of our conscious evolution, and therefore capable of cocreating our next stage of transformation. In the Birth 2012 movement, Hubbard encourages people to participate in innovative solutions in one of the 12 sectors of her Wheel of Co-Creation. This sort of thinking permeates many seemingly divergent fields. The Center for Mind/Body Medicine, founded by Dr. James Gordon, uses natural remedies, food as medicine, stress management and guided imagery to restore health.

For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call 850-279-4102 24

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Victim-offender reconciliation rehabilitates criminals, rather than punishing them. For example, The Restorative Justice Institute brings together victims and offenders of a crime for dialogue and reconciliation, greatly reducing the number of repeat offenses. Renewable power sources such as solar, wind and thermal energy promise unlimited energy to meet growing needs. For example, Oyster wave power technology from Aquamarine Power, harnesses the oceans tides for electrical energy off the northern coast of Scotland. One New York Times bestseller ,Abundance: The Future is Better than You Think, by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler, gives concrete examples of ways that humanity is being uplifted and how the seemingly insurmountable gap between the haves and have-nots is closing and quickly. If we believe that a new consciousness is being born and can change our world positively, our holiday to-do list should involve to include: explore the new possibilities; stay optimistic in

the face of present challenges; do our own spiritual development work; ask constructive questions, such as, “What would I like to see?” and take some time apart from the hectic pace of the season to listen to our inner guidance and be aware of answers coming from other sources. We are on the cusp of a new, exciting era. It is a time when we recognize our interconnectedness and interdependence. We are finally able to see the complex answers to difficult issues. It is a time when those solutions are coming forth at a rapid speed. It is

time to give birth to this new awakened human and beautiful world. There is a new way of thinking, believing and becoming already in motion. It is time for individuals to join with evolutionary thinkers such as Michael Beckwith, Corrinne McLaughlin, Deepak Chopra and Don Miguel Ruiz in creating a new human era. Rev. Darby Neptune is the senior minister at Unity of Panama City, located at 1764 Lisenby Ave., Panama City, For more information, call 850-769-7481 or visit UnityOfPanamaCity.org

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December 2012

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How Unconditional Love Harmonizes Our World Marci Shimoff Explores its Transformative Power by Judith Fertig

selfdescribed “seeker from the get-go,” Marci Shimoff, is an expert at helping others effect greater personal fulfillment and professional success. The noted transformational leader, speaker and author has written two bestselling books on happiness and unconditional love—Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out and Love for No Reason: 7 Steps for Creating a Life of Unconditional Love, and coauthored six bestselling titles in the Chicken Soup for the Woman’s Soul series.

What is the old way of looking at love, versus the new paradigm shift you propose? We’ve been trained to think of love solely as energy between two people, usually experienced as conditional love—we feel love if the other person agrees with us, treats us a particular way or loves us back. 26

But love is actually the essence of who we are, and when we live in a state of unconditional love, what I call “love for no reason,” we experience our essence that is love, which doesn’t depend on another person, situation or romantic partner. It is the core of every spiritual tradition.

Why do our ways of loving often seem inadequate? We each have a “love set-point,” the upper limit of our ability to give and receive love. We can’t feel more love by trying to change the outside—by relying on others to fill us up—because it will never work in the long run. We need to raise our love set-point higher; then we experience everything more through the eyes of love.

Do challenging economic times help us grow spiritually? We can use any life challenges to

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help us grow and find fresh avenues of lasting fulfillment. Success and money don’t guarantee happiness, and I know that from my own wakeup call. In 1998, I had three of my Chicken Soup for the Soul books on The New York Times bestseller list at the same time. One day, I spoke to 8,000 people and autographed 5,432 books and felt like an author rock star. Yet when I returned to my hotel room that night, I burst into tears. All of the success was great, but it still hadn’t made me happy. That’s when I began my intensive study of happiness and love.

Does science support our capacity to daily experience and deepen a love for all things? Science is finding that there is a neurophysiology of love. Studies by researchers in major institutions worldwide show that we can do simple things like breathe more deeply, walk barefoot on earth, listen to uplifting music or practice meditation that will support us in experiencing more unconditional love. These activities create greater heart rhythm coherence and new neural pathways in the brain.

How does having a heart that’s open to unconditional love benefit us?

The Institute of HeartMath has discovered that the magnetic field generated by the heart—what’s measured on a magnetometer—is 5,000 times stronger than that of the brain. HeartMath research has also demonstrated that when we’re in a positive emotional state, our hearts beat in a coherent rhythm that causes all the other systems in the body—including the brain, immune system and hormones—to work more efficiently and harmoniously. Their research shows that experiencing this regularly leads

to better health, slows the aging process and brings us greater creativity, resilience and happiness.

What are the seven doorways to practicing unconditional love revealed by your own research? I’ve interviewed hundreds of people that are living examples of unconditional love. I’ve found seven access points to experiencing more love: safety, being grounded and present; vitality, energy and well-being; unconditional self-love, feeling empowered; openness, being comfortable giving and receiving love; communication, listening and speaking with love; vision, seeing through the eyes of love; and oneness, feeling connected with the greater wholeness of life.

How does one person’s loving larger bless our families, communities and world? The more we experience love, the more we spread love to others. Our feelings are contagious. This idea is beautifully expressed in an ancient Chinese proverb: “When there is light in the soul, there will be beauty in the person. When there is beauty in the person, there will be harmony in the house. When there is harmony in the house, there will be order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world.”

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Judith Fertig, of Overland Park, KS, is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Connect with Marci Shimoff at HappyForNoReason.com.

Seniors Benefit from Community Connection by Brooke Hicks

Blake residents prepare for wreath making class at Oriole Beach Elementary.

arci Shimoff’s reflection on unconditional love provides seven access points to experiencing more love. The last one is, “Oneness, feeling connected with the greater wholeness of life.” This connection is very important for elders that live in senior and assisted living communities. Beyond the connection felt with inclusion in family life and socializing with

friends, research shows that seniors that feel a sense of purpose and learn new things are healthier, both physically and mentally. Glenn Barclay, owner and CEO of The Blake at Gulf Breeze, a retirement, assisted living and memory care community, has an understanding of what can make a difference for the seniors. Barclay has been involved with elder care for many years and feels that the primary factor for an enjoyable retirement is older adults’ health and wellness. Barclay believes older adults must be part of a community, and that means giving back. “One of the best programs we have is our service that bring together our residents with the many groups that need volunteers. Older adults have so much to contribute and their services are so appreciated. I think making a difference for others is what

makes a difference in how connected they feel,” says Barclay. The Oriole Beach Elementary School program is an example of a Blake volunteer group. The Blake residents volunteer once a month at the school. “The children at the school and our residents love it when we come to visit and do crafts, read stories or play games,” says Stacey Secord, recreation therapist at The Bake. It can be a challenge to help seniors stay connected in the community once they make the transition to a senior or assisted living facility. This is best accomplished by a combination of a variety of successful outbound programs and the commitment of both staff and family members. Brooke Hicks is a director at The Blake. For more information, visit BlakeLiving.co. Contact Brooke Hicks at 850-934-4306 or visit BlakeLiving.com.

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December 2012

Healthy, Local, Fresh, Seasonal, Glutenfree, Vegetarian, Raw & Farm-to-table Dining Options Our Hawaiian Fusion grill serves fresh Hawaiian classics and unique creations such as the Mahi Taco, and saute salad. All dishes and sauces are hand crafted with only fresh ingredients. PANAMA CITY BEACH David’s New Orleans Style Sno-Balls E Back Beach Rd 850-236-1998 Lotus Cafe 707 R. Jackson Blvd 850-234-1651 ZenGardenMarket.com/Lotus.html PENSACOLA FORT WALTON BEACH CafE Organic 113 Truxton Avenue 850-585-3645 CafeOrganicFWB.com 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Mon-Fri. Café Organic Focuses on real food that is organic, fresh, and 100% made from scratch; includes full juice and smoothie bar, vegan and gluten free, organic meats and dairy. Classes and personal consultation on healthy cooking and lifestyle are available. Golden Almond Health Food Store 339 Racetrack Rd NW # 3 (850) 863-5811; GoldenAlmond.com Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. We have natural and organic foods and the largest selection of herbs and supplements in the area. Enjoy our new fresh juice bar (Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.) while shopping for your health needs with the help of our knowledgeable and personable staff.

East Hill Market 1216 N. 9th Ave 850-469-1432 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Mon-Sat. End of the Line Cafe 610 E. Wright St 850-429-0336; EOTLCafe.com A unique little place in the Old East Hill area for 10 years, we prepare healthy, creative foods daily and our own vegan cheese. Enjoy our Sunday brunch, Thursday dinner, RSVP for our monthly raw foods dinner, beer and wine, and free WiFi. PENSACOLA BEACH BeachPops 5 Via Deluna Dr 888-935-8827; BeachPops.com 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon-Sun. Wild Roots 5 Via Deluna Dr 888-935-8827 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon-Sun. 850-267-0558 SANTA ROSA BEACH

GULF BREEZE Papa Nalu Aloha Grill 3499 Gulf Breeze Pkwy 850-932-4837 Find Us on Facebook 28

FOR THE HEALTH OF IT 2217 W. County Hwy 30A 850-267-0558 ShopForTheHealthOfIt.com

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Cafe Organic is as Good as its Name by Jude Forsyth

afe Organic, in Fort Walton Beach, boasts several reasons for visiting. It may be to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal or to drink an organic juice, smoothie or coffee. Maybe it’s because the cafe offers gluten-free selections, or provides grass-fed beef or cheese homedelivered. Pop in for a ginger and wheatgrass shot after collecting a box of fresh vegetable and fruits at the Emerald Coast Organic Food Coop next door. Because they now offer organic produce and pantry items for sale, there are organic quinoa, beans, rice, tofu, tempeh, coconut water or milk, vegetable stocks, seaweeds and many other items for purchase. Because co-owner Amy Likins is a holistic nutritional consultant with a master’s degree in holistic nutrition, she is not only dedicated to superb food at the café, but also to the education of her guests. Likins leads seminars on raw foods, organic whole food preparation and cleansing and detoxifying our bodies with fresh juices, as well as giving personal consultations for nutrition and wellness. She keeps a fresh, organic pantry that will delight anyone seeking good-tasting, healthy food and drink choices. Drop by to enjoy the Cafe’s daily special, like chicken or tofu with roasted sweet potato, kale, rice noodles, fresh herbs, garlic and ginger, all wrapped in rice paper and served with a sweet chili and ginger dipping sauce. Location: 113 Truxton Ave., FWB. For more information, call 850585-3645 or visit CafeOrganic FWB.com.

healthykids

Mindful Holiday Traditions Simple Ways to Add Meaning and Family-Centered Fun by Barbara Amrhein

oo many winter holidays whiz by in a blur of presents, parties and rich foods, muting the season’s true messages of love, hope and peace. By slowing down and refocusing on what makes this time of year so special, we can help our children—and ourselves—create fresh, meaningful traditions and experience genuine joy. “If the spirit of the season at your home is more ‘Gimme, take me, buy me,’ instead of ‘Deck the halls,’ don’t despair,” advises internationally renowned educator and child expert Michele Borba, Ph.D., author of The Big Book of Parenting Solutions:101 Answers to Your Everyday Challenges and Wildest Worries. “There are more subtle ways to encourage your kids to appreciate the greatest gifts of the holiday season. The simplest way is to focus on gifts of the heart and letting your kids be participants, not just recipients.” Try these tips for helping youngsters co-create traditions that celebrate family, friends, sharing with others and the holidays’ festive delights. Emphasize experiences, not things. Presents can never take the place of presence. Years from now, children will rarely recall what they unwrapped, but will remember special times spent together as a family. Take a nature walk to collect pinecones and other seasonal items for holiday décor. Designate a Family Night and let the kids choose the activity, like seeing a movie or a holiday performance such as The Nutcracker, playing a favorite board game or building a gingerbread house. At dinner, ask youngsters to relate their favorite holiday memories, and then build upon their responses to plan this year’s celebrations. Treat cards as treasured gifts. Gather the family ‘round when opening cards from others, catching up on their news and recalling funny or enjoyable shared moments. Skype calls and videos offer pleasurable immediacy while mailed cards become an appreciated, permanent memento.

Encourage children to create handmade or personalized cards for grandparents and other relatives, enclosing photos or drawings and a short note describing the reasons that person means so much to them. Hand deliver other cards to neighbors, accompanied by a plate of homemade, healthy treats. Children can also send cards to military personnel overseas via a Red Cross program at Tinyurl.com/HolidayHeroMail. Practice creative giving. Adopt a less fortunate family or child for the holidays (local churches or social service agencies can provide information) and ask youngsters to be “Santa’s little helpers” by picking out and thoughtfully wrapping books, toys and other gifts. Help children research good causes and earmark a small amount of money for them to gift to the cause of their choice, such as an animal shelter or other local nonprofit. Honor the gift of time, as well: Youngsters that spend a few hours helping out at a food pantry, caroling at a nursing home or wrapping gifts for Toys for Tots will experience and remember the true joy of giving. Nurture a sense of the spiritual. Worship services aren’t the only venue for sharing family values and beliefs with children. On the night of the Winter Solstice, December 21—the shortest day and longest night of the year—enjoy dinner by candlelight. Afterwards, stargaze in the backyard and make some holiday wishes. On another evening, turn off all the lights except the Christmas tree, menorah or other special candles and talk quietly about your blessings. Listening to a CD of carols from around the world reinforces a spirit of unity and invites lively discussions about how other cultures observe their holidays. Celebrate the season’s sights, sounds and fun. Ask children to help choose a tree and make or buy an ornament with special meaning for them. Then join in an informal decorating party with holiday tunes (kids get to choose some favorites), cocoa and cookies. Set aside an evening to walk or drive around

the neighborhood to admire holiday lights and displays. Those in northern climes can build a family snowman, forge a “snow angel” chain in the yard or go sledding at an area park. As a fun twist on traditional caroling, grab some kazoos and go humming with the kids and their friends. To capture these great holiday moments, ask each child to take turns as the official family photographer. Borba believes these types of shared experiences help children understand the true meaning of the season and bring back the heartfelt joy it represents. “In the end,” she advises, “remember that the holidays are really meant to be about love, togetherness and wonderful memories.” Barbara Amrhein is a freelance writer and editor for Natural Awakenings.

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December 2012

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BREATHE EASIER Try These Tips for Better Workouts

t’s easy to take breathing for granted. But tune in to your breath— when, say, halfway through a sun salutation or headed for a finish line—and you’ll find that it not only feeds muscles fresh oxygen, but also indicates whether it’s time to increase the intensity of the activity. To get the most out of every breath, follow these exercise tips from acknowledged experts.

Running With closed lips, breathe in sharply and deeply through the nose. Then purse the lips as if trying to blow out a candle and exhale through the mouth.

While running, breathe in for one step and out for two. “The rapid inhale and slower exhale in this technique fills lungs from the bottom,” explains Danny Dreyer, author of ChiRunning: A Revolutionary Approach to Effortless, Injury-Free Running. “Breathing exercises help take in more air when inhaling and empty lungs completely when exhaling. Muscles receive more glycogen, which lowers the chances of their cramping up.”

fully expanded. First, inhale once with the mouth open, and then exhale the same way, making a “Ha,” sound. Then close your mouth and continue making the same sound while inhaling and exhaling through the nose (it will resemble the rushing sound that Darth Vader makes in Star Wars movies). “Your breathing is the barometer of all your poses,” says Elena Brower, founder and co-owner of Virayoga, in New York City. If you’re gasping for air, back out of the pose. “Always give preference to deeper breathing over deeper postures,” advises Brower. This controlled breathing technique is largely responsible for the yoga buzz that helps keep students coming back for more.

Strength Training

Yoga

Exhale through the mouth when lifting weights and inhale through the nose when lowering them. As a rule of thumb, take two seconds to raise weights and three to four seconds to lower them. “Focusing on your breath keeps your brain in the game, so you’re more likely to pay attention to overall form,” says Tom Holland, an exercise physiologist, personal trainer and fitness consultant in Darien, Connecticut.

Use the Hindu breathing method called ujjayi, in which the lungs are

Cycling “The key to breathing on a bike is to go in through the nose and out through the mouth, and to be as relaxed as possible,” Holland counsels. As intensity increases on climbs or long rides, breathe more forcefully— deeper, quicker inhalations through the nose and rapid exhalations through the mouth. “The more relaxed your breathing is, the more relaxed your entire body will be,” says Holland. “Relaxed breathing conserves energy, prevents fatigue and improves endurance.” Using forceful breaths when you’re tired also sends more energizing oxygen to muscles to help counter fatigue.

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Critter Companions Alternative Adoptions Fit for Families by Sandra Murphy

hile dogs, cats, fish and birds populate most pet homes, other animals can be just as much fun to own.

Rabbits

“Rabbits are social and love routine. Be late with dinner and a bunny will show displeasure by stomping its feet,” says Pamela Hood, founder of Sweet Binks Rabbit Rescue, a statelicensed shelter in Foster, Rhode Island. Her four rules for happy, active bunnies are: Find a veterinarian that knows rabbits, adopt rather than buy, get a bonded pair and spay/neuter them.

Since 2000, Sweet Binks has rescued more than 1,700 rabbits as recaptured strays or from shelters meant for dogs and cats. Bunnies can live more than 14 years. “Rabbits eat more than just carrots. Pellets should be timothy hay-based, not alfalfa, for adult rabbits,” explains Hood. “But limit the amount. Hay should be 85 to 90 percent of their diet, because the side-to-side chewing of hay keeps teeth worn down to a livable length and ensures proper digestion.” Rabbits can be litter boxtrained and run free if the home is pet-proofed. For example, keep electrical cords out of reach or covered with plastic tubing. A lonely, bored bunny can be destructive, so provide wooden and chemical-free wicker toys for chewing. Play with them daily, although most shy away from cuddling. Bonded pairs need to be in sight of one another.

Miniature Horses

Miniature horses are not to be confused with Shetland ponies. Minis are fully grown horses, bred for pulling carts, not riding. They require the 32

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

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same care as a larger horse and make good therapy animals. An adult mini is about the same size as a standardsized horse’s newborn foal—about 34 to 38 inches tall at the withers (between the shoulder blades), although some are smaller. “Trained minis are good, gentle interpreters of emotion,” says Veronique Matthews, founder of Hearts & Hooves, a nonprofit equine therapy organization in Austin, Texas. “We visit abused or autistic kindergartenage children with a ratio of one child, one horse, one handler.” Walking on a handheld leash, a mini can help a child to cope with fear and anxiety.

Alpaca

A few years ago, alpacas were regarded as the next moneymakers when breeding and sales brought high prices for fleece, along with their waste, sold as soil-enriching manure. After the trend peaked, many herds were sold, often to ill-suited owners, and some needed rescuing. Michelle Zumwalt, a job consultant for people with disabilities in Spanish Lake, Missouri, has hosted rescued alpacas for eight years; the number fluctuates, based on new arrivals and adoptions. “There are enough of them to help supply local organic farms with fertilizer,” says Zumwalt. “These gentle creatures feel safest in numbers; when in danger, they will kick or spit.”

Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are likeable for their social, nonaggressive character, ease in handling and low maintenance. All crabs are born in the ocean, although some species leave the water as adults. Pet crabs in the United States are either Caribbean land crabs or the faster and more agile Ecuadorian crabs, which require access to both salt and fresh water. A 10-gallon fish tank with sand of a consistency suitable for castle building that’s three or four times deeper than the height of the largest crab works well. Crabs can grow to six inches in length

and live 10 years or more, although they don’t reproduce in captivity. As colony animals, they’re much happier in a group. Hermit crabs periodically need to replace the shell they carry on their back. Provide a shell that is 10 to 15 percent larger and watch as the crab tries it on for size. When crabs molt their underside ectoskeleton, they burrow beneath the sand for four to eight weeks; place these crabs in a separate tank. “Because crabs are scavengers, we feed them chicken, turkey, seaweed, scrambled eggs and fish. They love carrots, bell peppers, kiwi and coconut,” says Christine Richards, a maintenance management analyst and hermit crab caregiver in Montgomery Village, Maryland. “Crabs are nocturnal, so use a small flashlight to watch their antics,” she adds. “They love to climb.”

Chinchillas

Chinchillas, another night creature, can live up to 20 years. A round body, tiny hands and large ears make them easy to love, remarks Christina Pierce, a federal examiner of financial institutions in Little Rock, Arkansas. “My chin, Gizmo, wants to be where the commotion is and likes to travel,” she laughs. A specialty vet is required for chinchillas, with attention given to their teeth, which grow throughout their life. Give them things to chew on and fresh hay to help file down teeth. Gizmo’s favorite chews are willow twigs, peanuts in the shell, alfalfa sticks and lava blocks. “A twice-daily dust bath keeps his fur clean,” notes Pierce, “plus, it’s fun to watch.” It seems that everyone can find a pet that’s perfect for them. It’s just a matter of thinking outside the litter box.

WUWF is an important source of local news and information about our community—past and present. From Rick Harper’s reports on our regional economy, to the light Jocelyn Evans frequently sheds on local and national politics, or Enid Sisskin’s Eco Minute, UWF experts are helping to keep our community informed on 88.1 FM—and don’t forget Unearthing Florida! Educating our community is one important reason why I pledge my support.

WUWF 88.1 is My Public Radio and I Make it Possible.

Dr. Judy Bense

Listener, Member and Contributor

An individual has not

started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity. ~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Sandra Murphy is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings. natural awakenings

December 2012

Local Produce & Farm Resources CSAS & FOOD CO-OPS EVER’MAN NATURAL FOODS CO-OP 315 West Garden Street, Pensacola 850-438-0402 Everman.org

We offer a large variety of natural and certified organic products, vitamin supplements, natural groceries, local and organic produce and environmentally friendly products for the community. Mon-Sat. 7am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pm.

FLORIDA FRESH MEAT COMPANY

850-374-2181 OffTheVine.org We produce USDA inspected, hormone & antibiotic free, gourmet 100% grass fed Angus beef, grass fed lamb and natural pastured pork & pastured chicken. This beef is a product of the Angus cattle ranches located in North Central Florida. These exceptional animals feast on a salad bar of pesticide-free “gourmet” forage including clover, wheat, oat & rye grass, millet and more.

SUPERGANIC FARMS BUYING CLUB

West Pensacola Superganicfarms.com Certified Superganics. Join this Buying Club for $10 and have access to a variety of fresh harvest and superganically grown produce. Every Saturday between 7am-11am beginning May 19, 2012. No pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically modified organism(GMO). Seasonal produce prices available online.

All natural beef and hogs, free roaming grain and grass fed. Meet the farmer, know exactly what you getting and choose your dinner. Taking orders now.

Bartlett Meadows Cut Flower Farm

Farm Fresh Flowers in Pace, FL 850-390-5361 Gmb3450@aol.com BartlettMeadowsFarms.com Pick up fresh cut flowers form out farm or other locations in Pensacola. Flowers are perfect for all occasions including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and events. Wholesale accounts offered. Call for availability.

CAMBRIDGE FARMS

3200 Deloach Ln, Milton, FL 850-855-6420 Cambfarm@gmail.com CambridgeFarms.web.com As a certified grower for the State of Florida, we grow and sell pesticide free, safe to eat right off the bush or vine, all natural fruits and produce. Farmer Market Program with ongoing classes and education. Visit our website to learn about the Food Safety Act that will impact the way food is grown.

TWIN OAKS FARMS

3207 creek road Bonifay, FL 32425 850-547-5636 Cell: 305-282-5999 renee@twinoaksfarm.net TwinOaksFarm.net We raise chickens and ducks for eggs and meat. They roam freely on pasture, grass, bugs and sunshine is part of the diet. They are fed certified organic real grain without soy. We are USDA certified organic and 100% soy free farm.

OFF THE VINE ORGANIC PRODUCE

HASTING’S FARM

FARMS and FARm Tours

Local farm raising certified organic 100% grass fed cattle and lamb. Raising all natural Rotakwa Red Devon cross cattle with no hormones or antibotics. You will find the meat from the Red Devon cattle to be very tender and lots of taste. Individual cuts, quarter, half or whole. Call for availability.

850-374-2181 OffTheVine.org We are the original Organic Box Program. All organic - all the time! 100% Guaranteed. Celebrating 10 years of bringing the farmers market to you. Simply check our weekly list every Friday and place your produce order over the weekend. Pick up locations available across the Gulf Coast or for delivery. Like us on Facebook and read our OTV Blog.

ANITA & MARK’S HAPPY BOVINE & SWINE FARM 8770 Redfish Point Rd., Lillian, AL 36549 251-942-2126

40701 Pine Grove Rd, Bay Minette, AL 36507 251-937-8728 Rhastings4@Yahoo.com

MOONLIGHT MICRO FARM

6618 Beach Dr., Panama City Beach, FL 850-624-7075 Chandra@MoonlightMicroFarm.com

Moonlight Micro Farm is dedicated to community building, environmental stewardship and the cultivation of real food. We offer open pollinated and organic gardening seeds, sprouting seeds, gardening accessories & gifts, and garden design. Visit us at Seaside Farmers Market. We ship!

ROAMIN’ ROAN ACRES

Milton, FL 850-621-2296 RoaminRoanAcres.web.com Raw goat milk and products from healthy, Nubian dairy goats. Licensed in Florida for milk sales; not for human consumption per Florida law. We also offer soaps, lotions, and locally made bath & body products.

FARMERS’ MARKETS CRAZY FARMER HYDROPONIC GARDENING & FARMER MARKET

1308 W. Government St. Pensacola, FL (G st & Govn.) 850-438-8739 crazyfarmerspensacola@yahoo.com As your local farmers market, we grow organically and hydroponically in a sustainable and responsible method. Available currently: Tomatoes, Swiss chard, basil, mint, bok choy, cabbage, mustards, collards, honey, eggs & homemade bread. Open daily 8am-5pm. Mon,Wed, Fri. 8am1pm. Tues & Thurs.

SEASIDE FARMER’S MARKET Every Sat. Morning Year Round jlkuntz@mac.com or facebook us

The Seaside Farmers Market is comprised of local growers and crafts people who offer locally grown produce and farm products that are healthy and environmentally conscious. We are located in downtown Seaside behind “Raw & Juicy” at the amphitheater. Please come and support your local community. Saturdays 9am-1pm.

MEET UP gROUPS REALFOOD, PANAMA CITY Meets Every 3rd Saturday, 850-532-4633 Unity, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City Meetup.com/RealFood-GroupPanama-City

Offers what your body needs: organics, non-GMO/industrialized, lowprocessed, high nutrient, local & whole foods. Committed to the local food community, environment, and sustainable quality foods.

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calendarofevents All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Limited to approximately 50 words. See exact character count on website. Submit from our website at NWFNaturally.com. $10 per regular listing. $50 Save the Date ad.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1

GMO Awareness Discussion – 1pm. GM crops are infiltrating organic crops & people are virtually unaware. Discussing ways to ensure the sustained availability of non-GMO foods and products. Free. Ever’man Natural Foods Co-op Community Room. Everman.org/events. Navarre 5K Jingle Bell Run – 8am.This family friendly, non-timed 5K fun run/walk is great for kids and adults. Participating child runners may take a shortcut to grandma’s house for refreshments.$20. Fire Station, 8618 Esplanade St, Navarre.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4

Free Healing and Meditation Clinic – Promotes stress reduction and general wellness. Procotols for emotional/physical ailments. Spiritual teachings, Lorraine Graves, Ph.D. Donations. 501 Adams St, Pns. PranicHealingOasis.com 850-433-2042/221-2381. Treatments for Reflux Disease – 9am. Presentation by G. Travis Paul, M.D., general surgery. Free. Atmore Community Hospital, 401 Medical Park Dr, Mayson Auditorium, Pns. RSVP: 850-469-7897.

dinner sit down meal with Nutritionist Amy Likens and Chef Christian Echele. Cafe Organic, 119 Truxton Ave, FWB. 850-585-3645. AllOneYogaFWB.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11

Free Healing & Meditation Clinic – A time to connect with the Power within You. Experience the transformation of Divine Healing Energy. Promotes stress reduction. Donation. Lori Thomas, Certified Pranic Healing Instructor. 501 Adams St., Pens. 850-221-2381/433-2042. PranicHealingOasis.com. Starting a Business – 9am-noon. Learn the essentials for getting started in business including: idea evaluation, legal business structures, regulations & licensing, taxation, finding capital and more. $35. SBDC at UWF, 401 E. Chase St. Pens. 850-595-0063.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12

savethedate 12-12-12 Planetary Peace Meditation (TwinHearts) – 12pm (arrive by 11:45am). A beautiful time for transformation/healing on global and personal level. Flush out negative stress energy. Bring in joy. Unity Church, 716 N.9th Ave. (lower level), Pns. Donation/canned food Manna. Lori Thomas 850-221-2381.PranicHealingOasis.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5

Healthy Tips for the New Year – 12-1pm. Presentation by Mark R. Thiele, M.D., family medicine, Baptist Medical Group. Lunch at 11:30am. Baptist Medical Park, 9400 University Pkwy, Azalea Rm, Pns. RSVP: 850-469-7897.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7

Stress Buster – 6-8:30pm. Learn how to feel great again with yoga, breath, relaxation, and simple organic beauty treatments with healthy ingredients in your kitchen. Pure therapeutic grade essential oils, fresh prepared organic juice elixirs, and light organic raw food snacks. Cafe Organic, 119 Truxton Ave, FWB. 850-585-3645. AllOneYogaFWB.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8

Eating Raw for The Holidays – 10:30am. Join raw foods chef, Jodi Brown, as she prepares alive, nutritionally dense holiday recipes using common ingredients and basic equipment. Pre-payment required. Ever’man Natural Foods Co-op Community Room. RSVP. 850-438-0402. Spa Aloha Grand Opening – Please join us for all sorts of goodies. Free polish changes, paraffin hand treatments, lip treatments, eye treatments, massages and more. 4570 Gulf Breeze 850-934-9599.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9

the

Save Date

Healthy Holidays Workshop – 2-5pm. Cooking class and healthy holiday recipes. Build strategies to stay healthy and fit during this Holiday season. Enjoy a full

Advanced Studies Program -

Prescription Medication – Preventing Misuse and Abuse – 12-1pm. Presentation by Irvin J. Williams, Ph.D., C.A.P., Director Specialty Programs, Lakeview Center Baptist Hospital. Lunch at 11:30am. Free. Medical Meeting Rooms, 1000 West Moreno St, Pns. RSVP: 850-469-7897. Guided Healing Meditation – 6-7pm. Participate in the powerful energy of 12-12-12 and align with a powerful shift to higher consciousness. Feel the difference a guided meditation with Alice McCall can make for you. $15.Teleconference. RSVP req. Alice@HealingPath.info. Business Planning for Success – 6-9pm. Attendees will discover the key components and the basics of writing a business plan. $40. SBDC at UWF, 401 E. Chase St. Pens.Register at 850-595-0063.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14

Herbal Certification Course – Last day for $100 discount. See Save the Date ad this page. Prescription Medication:Preventing Misuse and Abuse – 9-10am. Free. Baptist Medical Park, 8888 Navarre Pkwy, 2nd Floor Conference Room, Pns. RSVP: 850-469-7897. LED Light Therapy – 10am-noon. Presentation/20 min complimentary LED session. LED is a stateof-the-art, non-invasive advancement in increasing circulation, controlling pain, reducing stress & increasing overall wellness by using light & sound therapy. Avalon Light Keepers, LLC. Ever’mans Natural Foods, 315 W Garden St. 850-424-8261. AvalonLightkeepers.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16

ECKANKAR Worship Service – Maintaining Harmony and Balance in Our Lives –11am. Free. Every 3rd Sunday. All are welcome. Presented by local members of ECKANKAR. Hampton Inn, 7710 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre.850-862-0446.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18

How to Manage Holiday Stress – 12-1pm. Presentation by Vicki Roy, M.D., Baptist Medical Group. Lunch at 11:30am. Andrews Institute Athletic Performance & Research Pavilion, 1040 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Room B, Pns. RSVP: 850-469-7897.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19

Your Guide to Healthy Sleep – 9:30-10:30am. Presentation by Wayne Peacock, RPSGT, RST. Jay Hospital, 14114 Alabama Street, Royal Room, Pns. RSVP: 850-469-7897.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21

Solstice Meditation – 4-5:30pm. A special guided meditation to honor the winter solstice. We will combine our energies to experience the birthing of our new earth and inner-selves. $20. Teleconference. RSVP req. 850-585-5496. Alice@HealingPath.info.

F R I D AY, D E C E M B E R 2 8

Full Moon Meditation – 6:30pm. Absorb the power of the Full Moon and the positive energies of the zodiac sign each month and use this energy to bless Mother Earth.The Center for Pranic Healing, 206-B Center Rd, Gulf Breeze. 850-982-8018. PranicHealingAndWellness.com.

UPCOMING

Introduction to Tai Chi – 6-7:15pm. New beginners’ class offers gentle moving meditation with gentle instruction only for beginners. 7-8:30pm. All other levels of students welcome. Eastern Traditions, 7552 Navarre Pkwy, Heritage Village, across from VinnieRs, Navarre. 850-226-9355. BlueWillowWellness.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5

Dragonfly Yoga 2012

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12

Dragonfly Yoga offers extensive, comprehensive, and enriching yoga workshops tailored to both teachers and serious students of all levels

classes :: workshops :: trainings The Four Diaphragms of the Body - DEC 1 8–1pm Thai Yoga Bodywork and Traditional Yoga: Opposites Attract - DEC 8 www.DragonFlyYoga.com ::: 850-244-0184 Located Downtown Ft Walton Beach, Florida :: 184 Brooks St SE

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

Spiritual Growth Circle with Alice McCall – 9:30am12:30pm.Ongoing bi-monthly work to keep you on your spiritual path and aligned with the Earth’s ascension. Very uplifting. $55. Teleconference; Reservations req.850-585-5496. Alice@HealingPath.info.

savethedate Herbal Certification:Back to Our Roots – 9am-1pm. Five wk course ends 2/9/13. Herbal Certification Course with Herbalist Kathy Hubbard. Study the healing properties of herbs to promote better health. $415 incls all materials. Registration required. $100 off with deposit/reg by Dec. 14. Old Thyme Remedy, 2475 E. 9 Mile Rd, Ste E, Pns.850-748-3149.

ongoingevents All Calendar events must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Limited to approximately 25 words. See exact character count on website. Submit from our website only at NWFNaturally.com. $10 per entry.

monday

Suncoast

Healthcare

Professionals

Art Treasures On The Beach –10am-5pm. Mon-Sat. Enjoy all mediums by13 local artists.Villagio Shoppping Ctr, 13700 Perdido Key Dr, Pens. Talis Jayme, 850-261-9617. Pilates Mat Class – 11am. Bring a mat, lose some fat. $10. Eastern Traditions, 7552 Navarre Pkwy, St 6, (across from VinnieR), Navarre. 850-217-6341. Lunchtime Pilates Class –12pm. Use of reformers, towers and chairs for intermediate levels. $28 or packages avail. 2130 Summit Blvd, Pens. 850-287-5836. PilatesCoreTraining.com. Multi-level Pilates Mat Class with props – 5:45pm. All levels. $12 or packages avail. 2130 Summit Blvd, Pens. 850-287-5836. PilatesCoreTraining.com. Abhaya Open Yoga – 6:30-8pm. A vigorous Vinyasa flow class taught by Nancy LaNasa.Who doesn’t like yoga on Monday? $12. Abhaya Yoga Center, 415a N Tarragona St, Pens. 850-439-0350. Card Making Class – 10am-noon. We create new cards each week. $10 ArtisticExpressions.com. End of Summer Art Sale –13 local artists, all mediums. Villagio 13700 Perdido Key Dr, Pens. 850-261-9617. artworksgalleryonperdidokey. blogspot.com.

tuesday Metaphysical Bible Study – 10am. Unity of Pensacola. 716 North 9th Ave. Pens. 850-438-2277. Abhaya Slow Flow Yoga – 5:30-7pm. A slower paced Vinyasa yoga class taught by Nancy LaNasa, certified Jivamukti instructor. $12. Abhaya Yoga Center, 415a N Tarragona St, Pens. 850-439-0350. Hatha Yoga – 6pm. Flowing postures, breathing exercises, deep relaxation. Ask about Yoga4Vets, Karma Yoga, and Gentle Yoga. Drop In, No Contract. The Wellness Center, 4958 Hwy. 90, Pace. Reese Jones CYI. 850-450-5971. Truth on Tap – 6pm. Last Tuesday of each month, spiritual discussion with Rev Jamie Sanders. Ozone Pizza Pub, 1010 North 12 Ave, Suite 111, Pens. 850-438-2277. Pilates Mat Class – 6pm. Bring a mat, lose some fat. $10. Eastern Traditions, 7552 Navarre Pkwy, St 6, (across from VinnieR), Navarre. 850-217-6341. Guided Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Facilitated by Brenda Q. Bischoff, C.L.C., C.HT., C.I. $10. 7100 Plantation Rd., Ste. 11, Pens. Weekly Acrylic Painting Class – Let me show you how easy it is to paint. Come join us. 457-8257. ArtisticExpressions.com.

wednesday Community Acupuncture Clinic – 5-7pm. $20. Great way to sleep better, quit smoking, & de-stress. Eastern Traditions, 7552 Navarre Pkwy suite 6, Navarre. 850-554-3464.

PTSD Acupuncture clinic – 5-7pm. Improves sleep & emotions for military and other victims of trauma. Eastern Traditions, 7552 Navarre Pkwy suite 6, Navarre. 850-554-3464. Yoga with Sudevi Linda Kramer – 5:45-7:15pm. $12 drop in rate, pkgs avail. 2130 Summit Blvd, Pens. 850-287-5836. PilatesCoreTraining.com. Abhaya Open Yoga – 6:30-8pm. A vigorous Vinyasa yoga class taught by Nancy LaNasa, certified Jivamukti teacher. $12. Abhaya Yoga Center, 415a N Tarragona St, Pens. 850-439-0350. Pilates Intermediate Reformer & Tower Class –7-8pm. 2130 Summit Blvd. Pens. 850-287-5836. PilatesCoreTraining.com. Unity of Pensacola Choir Practice – 6pm. Open to all who would like to perform upbeat, contemporary, positive music. 716 N. 9th Ave. Pens. 850-438-2277.

thursday PTSD Acupuncture Clinic – 5-7pm. Improves sleep & emotions for military and other victims of trauma. Eastern Traditions, 7552 Navarre Pkwy suite 6, Navarre. 850-554-3464. Herb Study Group and Cancer Prevention Class – 6-8pm. Participants meet to watch videos, learn recipes and discuss herbal attributes. Ever’man Natural Foods Co-op, Pens. 850-549-4881. Hatha Yoga – 6pm. Flowing postures, breathing exercises, deep relaxation. Ask about Yoga4Vets, Karma Yoga, and Gentle Yoga. Drop In, No Contract. The Wellness Center, 4958 Hwy. 90, Pace. Reese Jones CYI. 850-450-5971. Community Acupuncture & Emotion Code Clinic – 6:30-8:30pm. Dr. Bonnie McLean is providing her Community Acupuncture Clinic for stress reduction, combined with Margie Kalaluhi’s Emotion Code sessions. $20/acup, $10/ec. 5012 Muldoon Cir, Pens. RSVP 850-457-3354. SpiritGateMedicine.com. Tai Chi & Qi Gong Exercises for Health – 9-10am. $5. Perdido Bay Community Center 13660 Innerarity Point Road. Cheryl 850-492-4451.

saturday

Iridology and Cardiovascular Screening – 2nd Sat monthly. Dr. Jim Bledsoe will be holding iridology and cardio screenings on the 2nd Saturday of each month. $30/$50. Healthquest, 4761 Bayou Blvd, Pens. Call for appt. 850-479-7220. Abhaya Open Yoga – 9-10:30am. A vigorous and fun way to recover from Friday night. Rock out on Saturday morning at Abhaya. $12. Abhaya Yoga Center, 415a N Tarragona St, Pens. 850-439-0350. Yoga for Life – 10am.Yoga for Life and Even Flow Yoga. Peace for the body, mind and soul. Seniors $5 discount. Perdido Bay Community Center, 13660 Innerarity Point Rd, Pens. 850-865-7144. Spinning and Pilates – 9-10:15am. Special spin bikes that move followed by 1/2 hour mat class. $12. 2130 Summit Blvd, Pens. 850-287-5836. PilatesCoreTraining.com. Tai Chi for All Ages – 10-11:15am. For wellness, stress relief and immunities. Bring a friend. $5. Chips Health Club, 100 McAbee Court, Gulf Breeze. 850-380-8830. Words of Peace TV – 2pm. Last Sat. Words of Peace “What we are looking for is inside, not outside.” Prem Rawat, also honorably known as Maharaji. Cox Cable Ch 4 & WUWF Public Access Channel, Pens. 850-341-9838.

sunday Abhaya Open Flow Yoga – 4:30-6pm. A great way to wind down the weekend with a challenging vinyasa class taught by Jenifer Roberts. $12. Abhaya Yoga Center, 415a N Tarragona St, Pensacola. 850-439-0350.

Francene Popiel, L.M.T. “My Heart is in My Hands”

Free Educational Seminars – 7-9pm. last Thurs monthly. Alternative healthcare options and how they are implemented in a modern world. Refreshments. Soulstice Bodyworks, 12385 Sorrento Rd, Pens. 850-725-2330. Facebook.com/SoulsticeBodyworks.

friday Pensacola Little Theatre’s Studio 400 – Tickets $17 for Café seating; $10 for Gen. Admission. 850-434-2042. Pensacola LittleTheatre.com. The Northern Gulf Coast Chapter of USGBC –121pm. Meets on the 2nd Friday of the month at the Bowden Building. usgbc-ngcc.com. Create an Art Journal – 10am-noon. Have fun every other Friday by letting your creative side shine. We’ll learn new techniques. $10. ArtisticExpressions.com.

Advanced Cranio Sacral Therapy Manual Lymph Drainage Therapy Neuromuscular Therapy Some insurance and W/C accepted

(850) 572-3786 francenep@earthlink.net

natural awakenings

MA 17569

December 2012

naturaldirectory ACUPUNCTURE BONNIE MCLEAN, OMD, AP, MA, BSN Baybridge Chiropractic Clinic 107 Baybridge Dr., Gulf Breeze (850)-932-1778 SpiritGateMedicine.com Helping you heal with Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, N.A.E.T., Energy Medicine, Infra Red Therapy, Shamanic Healing, Guided Imagery and Hypnosis. Contact me about stress related disorders, pain or habit control, women’s health, allergies, and rejuvenation, immunity and longevity.

Coastal Acupuncture 8 N. Coyle Street Pensacola 850-637-1548 CoastalAcu.com

You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty. ~ Mahatma Gandhi

Offering Traditional Chinese Medicine in downtown Pensacola. Our practice specializes in females from fertility to menopause. Headaches, allergies, pain and stress all relieved with acupuncture!

DR. SHERYL ROE Acupuncture Physician 850-225-3460 DrSRoe.com Acupuncture Works! Learn how it can work for you at either office (Mary Esther Blvd. or Navarre Healing Center in Harvest Village). Treating all types of pain, addiction, sleep disorders, stress, fibromyalgia, PTSD. Feel better soon. See ad page 27.

classifieds PETS NICOLE’S ANIMAL CARE SERVICES – daily, weekly or monthly house visits. Walks, pet taxi, pet nedications and overnight pet sitting. Paws4Nicole.Wordpress.com.

products SCIATICA? BACK PAIN? POOR POSTURE? – If you suffer with any of these symptoms the Sacro Wedgy® could be a simple solution to a not so simple problem. Relax 20 minutes daily and let gravity do the work of relaxing tight muscles to help correct a problem rather than treat the symptom. Spend $29.95 once to use for years of prevention. This has helped when all else failed. For info: 800-737-9295 or SacroWedgy.com.

SERVICES

EASTERN TRADITIONS Katherine Semmes, Acupuncture Physician 7552 Navarre Parkway, Ste 6. Navarre 850-554-3464 Restore your family’s health using simple techniques to stimulate the body’s own healing capacity; safe and effective for common childhood and parenthood complaints. Acupressure, reflexology, organic herbs also utilized. See ad page 4.

FARRAR CELADA, AP, FABORM Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine 310 E Gov. St, Pensacola 850-677-0432 FloridaCompleteWellness.com

BE MORE COMFORTABLE IN YOUR BODY! – Find relief from injuries, pain, movement restrictions and postural/structural imbalances with ROLFING. Sharalee Hoelscher, Certified Rolfer™, RCST®, (Lic. #MA34039). 850-450-8508. HealingWithBodywork.com.

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

Ready to feel like yourself again? Specializing in hormonal imbalances, infertility, and natural pain relief for over a decade. Offering free same-day consults, call today!

www.NWFNaturally.com

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE WATSON ALTERNATIVE HEALTH AND WEIGHT LOSS CENTER Ward Dean M.D. Marie John M.D. 5536 Stewart Street, Milton 850-623-3836 Anti-aging, holistic pediatrics, chelation, weight loss, hyper-baric chamber, preventive medicine, hydrogen peroxide, photo-illumination, alternative cancer treatment, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, nutrition. See ad page 16.

BEAUTY SALON VEDAT

114-B Benning Dr, Destin 850-837-2690; cell: 813-841-4890 • SalonVedat@gmail.com SalonVedat.com Organic Salon Systems has started a revolution of healthier, cleaner, natural, organic, and better performing professional salon products. Beauty without sacrificing health. Coloring and smoothing treatments for silky, healthy hair. No SLS, ammonia, parabens or plastics. See ad page 15.

BODYWORKERS SHARALEE HOELSCHER RCST® Certified Rolfer™ (MA34039) Registered Craniosacral Therapist 850-450-8508 • HealingWithBodywork.com Get out of pain once and for all! Treat the source, not the symptom. Enjoy moving freely in a more organized, comfortable, and balanced body. See ad page 6.

SOULSTICE BODYWORKS 850-725-2330 facebook.com/SoulsticeBodyworks SoulsticeBodyworks.MassageTherapy.com Soulstice Bodyworks is a massage therapy practice in Perdido providing alternative care for the modern world through intelligent and personalized therapeutic touch. MA#60681

colonic therapy

Essential Oils

HYPNOSIS

LAURIE AZZARELLA, LMT, CRR

AUSTIN HEALING ARTS

Young Living Educator, Sponsor #327923 850-380-4943 LaurieAzzarella@gmail.com WellnessPurposeAbundance.com/YL/123

Carole A. Austin, RN, LMT, Lic 18275 101 Clematis St, Pensacola 850-470-0420 Is your body a toxic waste site? Cleanse your entire large bowel of toxicity, harmful bacteria, accumulated waste. Safe, sanitary, refreshing. Massage, far-infrared sauna available. See ad page 16.

SKINDEEP CLINIC WELLNESS CENTRE

Experience the healing, uplifting and detoxifying benefits of therapeutic-grade essential oils and supplements. Contact us for personal consultations, in-home classes, household products, health supplements, diffusers, group presentations and business training.

foods & supplements

Cindy Butler, Owner/Therapist 4012 Commons Dr W, Ste 120, Destin 850-269-1414 SkinDeepDestin.com

ORGANO GOLD

Colonics, ionic footbaths, infrared saunas. Organic non-surgical facelift, weight loss (lose 20 lbs in 40 days), body wraps, massage, teeth whitening, airbrush tan, makeovers.

DENTISTRY

Free book for new patients: Mercury Free Dentistry. Ozone, Laser NoSuture Gum Surgery, Test for compatible materials, cavity-causing bacteria. Examine for gum disease bacteria Laser Cavity Diagnoses, Saliva, pH Check, Oral Galvanic Screening, no fluoride.

15% off vitamins, herbs and homeopathics every day. 10% off groceries for military. Natural and organic groceries; wheat-, dairy- and gluten-free foods; nitrate-free meats and poultry; homemade sandwiches; low-carb foods; organic wine and beer; locally made jewelry, soaps and candles. Bulk-order discounts, no membership fee. See ad page 41.

energy healing Susan Giangiulio MEd, CECP, CLP 850-240-2279 Back-To-Basic-Wellness.com

MAIA RIZZI, CCHT Nationally Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist Practicing for over 20 years Pensacola, 850-291-8041

Specializing in stress management, behavior modification, feelings of fear and anxiety, weight loss, smoking cessation, motivational issues, relationship problems, inner-child concerns, lack of self-esteem, sports enhancement. Call for a complimentary consultation. See ad page 17.

INTUITIVE/MEDIUM ERICKA BOUSSARHANE Professional Psychic Medium 850-941 4321 • ColdCasePsychic.com As an internationally known psychic medium, Ericka has been featured on national TV and radio stations across the country. She studied through the Astrological Institute of Integrated Studies where John Edward received training in Psychic Development.

TERESA BROWN 3 W Garden St, Pensacola 850-206-1853 TeresaBrown.net

healing arts

BACK TO BASIC WELLNESS

Time Line Therapy, Certified NGH Hypnosis Instructor. Imagine living the life you have already dreamed of. Take the first step now. Call for a free consultation. See ad page 11.

Drink healthier Coffee. 100% Arabica coffee infused with 100% organic Ganaderma Lucidum, a Chinese herb noted for healing properties. See ad page 20.

916 W Michigan Ave, Unit C Pensacola, FL 850-433-8583 • PensacolaNaturalFoods.com

IAOMT Protocol 225 W Laurel Ave, Foley, AL 36535 251-943-2471 • DrDaytonHart.com

Hypnosis, Hypnobliss™, Life Coaching, NLP 850-637-1631, 850-501-3662 Brenda@TransformYourLife.net TransformYourLife.net

Dave & Becky Scholtes 850-324-5336 Dscholtes.organogold.com

PENSACOLA NATURAL FOODS INC

DR. DAYTON HART, DMD

BRENDA Q. BISCHOFF, CLC, CHT CI

Experienced intuitive medium, public speaker, and author. Find peace, healing and renewal of energy through energetic clearing, past life regression and spiritual counseling. Consultations in person or phone.

HEALING PATH, ALICE MCCALL

Certified Lifeline Technique™ and an Emotion Code Practitioner applying kinesiology, known as muscle testing, to communicate with the subconscious. One or more sessions release trapped emotions, helping to eliminate personal obstacles and limiting behaviors.

Transformational Energy Healer & Counselor BS Psychology, MBA, Hypnotherapist 850-585-5496 • HealingPath.info Phone sessions to heal serious health issues, unwanted patterns, and more. Authored Wellness Wisdom on natural health and healing; inspired by her journey with cancer.

REflexology LAURIE AZZARELLA, LMT, CRR

/NANWFL

Join our Natural Awakenings group on facebook and we directly alert you on upcoming happenings and events. Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.

251-625-0080 or 850-380-4943 LaurieAzzarella@gmail.com WellnessPurposeAbundance.com/YL/123 Certification in Ingham Reflexology through the International Institute of Reflexology. Phase I & II. 16 CEUs per workshop. Daphne, AL. Available to everyone, workshops provide education in better health naturally.

natural awakenings

December 2012

RETIREMENT LIVING THE BLAKE AT GULF BREEZE Brooke Hicks 850-934-4306 • BlakeLiving.com

CONSIDER THIS

SMART ADVERTISING IN A TOUGH ECONOMY! WHY NATURAL AWAKENINGS

• 2 out of 3 Natural Awakenings readers purchase from NA. • Over 51% of NA readers have household incomes over 50K. • 72% of NA readers are between the ages of 2554. • 70% of those who first pick the magazine up are Female. • Over 40,000 like-minded readers.

OVER 450 DISTRIBUTION SITES IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA.

850-279-4102 888-228-8238

Scott@NWFNaturally.com NWFNaturally.com

A retirement, assisted living, and memory care community inspiring wellness in an enriched environment. Also, short-term respite program for caregivers to have their loved one stay as a guest; enjoy the many services and personalized care. See ad page 5.

sKIN CARE OCEANA NATURALS, LLC Michael J Russ 866-242-3776 PureSunscreen.com

See ad page 30.

MelanSol® is certified chemical free skin care that brings hope and peace of mind to everyone who wants to enjoy a safe relationship with the sun.

SPA RETREATS ESCAPE AT WINDCREEK 1-855-EZ-ESCAPE (1-855-393-7227) EscapeatWindCreek.com Escape at Wind Creek boasts over 15,000 square feet of pure ah! Including a world class spa, culinary studio, fitness center, discovery programs and adventure experiences. See ad back page.

spiritual center UNITY OF PENSACOLA Jamie Sanders, Minister 716 N. 9th, Pensacola 850-438-2277 UnityPNS.com Unity of Pensacola offers, spiritual teachings that empower abundant and meaningful living. We provide philosophy that is spiritual, not religious, and love-based, not fear based.

WELLNESS CENTERS

Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive. ~ Dalai Lama 40

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

SKINDEEP CLINIC WELLNESS CENTRE Cindy Butler, Owner/Therapist 4012 Commons Dr W, Ste 120, Destin 850-269-1414 SkinDeepDestin.com Colonics, ionic footbaths, infrared sauna. Organic non-surgical facelift, weight loss (lose 20 lbs in 40 days), body wraps, massage, teeth whitening, airbrush tan, makeovers. MM27113. MA49032.

THE WELLNESS CENTER Thomas Easley, Clinical Herbalist 850-994-5656 PaceWellnessCenter.com Facebook/The-Wellness-Center

Offers supplement/herbal wellness; assessment practices: iridology, tongue/fingernail/pulse analysis, glandular body typing. Healing therapies: ionic footbath, hot house, chi machine, and massage therapy.

markeTplace products for body, mind, spirit

& sustainability

WELLNESS CENTER AT NAVARRE Pam Svendsen. MD 7552 Navarre Pkwy, Ste 21 850-936-8343 NavarreWellness.com

Committed to patient centered care as well as disease focused treatment, we offer family practice, weight loss, anti-aging, skin solutions and events. See ad page 29.

WELLNESS PROFESSIONALS AVALON LIGHT KEEPERS 850-424-8261 AvalonLightKeepers.com Light emitting diodes, or LEDs, are used to apply concentrated dos es of l i g h t s a n d h e a l i n g sound frequencies to help increase circulation, control pain, reduce stress and increase overall wellness. Ongoing sessions are given at The Golden Almond Health Food Store. Contact us to learn about our free presentations. See ad page 4.

EMERALD COAST RELAX Quantum Wellness Technology INDIGO Quantum Biofeedback Device and Quantumwave Laser Therapy & Sales 850-803-6459 EmeraldCoastRelax.com Libbie Hambleton, Certified B i o f e e d b a c k Te c h n i c i a n , providing sessions at a variety of locations. Devices to assist with stress, pain, relaxation, inflammation, rejuvenation, sleep, wellness.

Shop with a Conscience at Natural Awakenings’ New Webstore As a leader in green and healthy living, it makes perfect sense for us open a webstore that features items that support sustainability and natural health. You’ll love our easy-to-navigate site. Shop by product categories that include beauty and skin care, home and office, books and music, fitness, clothing, cosmetics, kids and pets. It’s your one-stop eco-friendly and healthy living destination!

nawebstore.com

ABHAYA YOGA CENTER

Beauty & Skin Care

a Eco Pilates Yog

Organic Clothing

yoga studios

R H WITH OU THIS MONT .. .. .. .. TONE UP .. .. .. .. .. ..

D Set Ball with DV

Books & Music Green Home & Garden

Green Toys

415-A Tarragona St N, Pensacola, FL 850-439-0350 • AbhayaYogaCenter.com

Y O G A

Abhaya has been voted Pensacola’s Best Yoga five years in a row, as long as we’ve been open. Take a class with us and find out why. See ad page 6.

Support our community

shop locally natural awakenings

December 2012

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Here’s what people are saying about Natural Awakenings’ Detoxified Iodine “Since I started taking the detoxified iodine drops, I feel more naturally energized throughout the day. I’m very glad I found this product!” Rachael on 8/17/12 “I was going through fatigue for a while, and I thought if this product could do anything to help I’d try it. Turns out I have so much more energy now, and my mood has stabilized as well. I haven’t lost weight, but I wasn’t looking for a miracle. This product has helped greatly! Thank you.” Amanda on 9/26/12 “I am very glad that I ordered the Iodine Supplement which came to my attention when I needed it most. I am in my 80s and everyone will tell you that with age one has less energy. But now after I have followed instructions and I’m finishing my third week, I certainly have more energy and all around feel much better. I highly recommend this wonderful supplement!” Irmgard on 10/2/12

Visit NAWebstore.com for Hundreds of Natural, Eco-Friendly Products

Beauty & Skin Care

Organic Clothing

Green Home

Books & Music

Green Toys

2012 Holiday Gifts

Conscious Giving: Meaningful gifts for the most meaningful people in your life. This holiday season give gifts of health, well-being and sustainability. Perfect Gift—Medicinal Herbs for Life.

Along with color photos, the book describes 98 herbs, plants and weeds - how to grow them, their medicinal properties and how to use them. Particularly written for the Florida Panhandle area. Makes a great gift for those concerned about improving and maintaining their health. MedicinalHerbsForLife.com. Linda@MedicinalHerbsForLife.com. 850-381-9191.

HAIR COLOR TOUCH UP

$49.00

Non-Toxic Organic Based Color System That Last Up To 30% Longer No fumes – No Burn

Salon Vedat 850-837-2690 SalonVedat.com

Beyond Organic—The Advanced Anti-Aging System works to visibly improve your skins elasticity and firmness leaving you feeling youthful and reinvigorated. The collection features 100% certified ToxicFree® ingredients infused with organic botanicals concentrated anti-aging power. Our Advanced line prevents wrinkles and repairs existing damage by boosting the skin natural ability to improve cell turnover, and enhance elasticity. ToxicFree.My BeyondOrganic.com 850-687-0826.

Expires Dec 31, 2012

THE GIFT OF HEALTH

Organic, Toxic Free Rich in Live Nutrients Chocolate • Skin & Body Care Green-Fed Beef • Rich Raw Cheeses

Pilates Core Training—Align your new year with a new body. Gift certificates make excellent gifts - they can be used for Pilates classes or private sessions, bodywork, essential oils, equipment or apparel. 850-287-5836. 2130 Summit Blvd., Pens.

Solstice Bodyworks in Perdido—Massages are

Live Snacks & Beverages Pure Mountain Spring Water Order Online & Delivered to Your Door. Call about Free Samples, Gift Certificates and Free Shipping

ToxicFree.MyBeyondOrganic.com

perfect gift certificates. $90 (90 Min) or $70 (60 Min). 850-7252330. SoulsticeBodyworks.MassageTherapy.com. MA#29279.

Happy Holidays from NWF Natural Awakenings. natural awakenings

December 2012

D idier

became interested in yoga as a teenager, practicing Yoga Asanas in Casablanca, Morocco,where he grew up. In the early eighties, Didier traveled to India and Asia. In 1985, he met Gurumayi Chidvilasananda in Ganeshpuri, India.He spent the next ten years living in Her ashrams (monasteries) in India, France, and the United States. While living in the ashrams, Didier had the opportunity to study Hatha Yoga with several teachers, notably John Friend - the founder of Anusara Yoga. At one time, Didier was an Anusara affiliated teacher. He is presently certified through the Sivananda and Sri Mahesh Schools of Yoga. In 2000, Didier created his own yoga school that he named “Two Suns Rising Yoga”. Rumi, a great Sufi poet saint (12071273) wrote a beautiful poem which alludes to this same theme.

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com (855) 393.7227

Rejuvenation YOGA Retreat • Includes 2 night stay on Level 15, a four diamond boutique hotel in a hotel • 6 healthy meals • Healthy snacks • Unlimited meditation and yoga classes by Didier • Discovery classes

• www.EscapeAtWindCreek.com