Natural Awakenings Emerald Coast December 2013

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H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

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Special Edition

Awakening Humanity

Peace on TOUCHING GREEN Our Plates HEAVEN Merry-Making Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

Proof of Life After Death

Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

December 2013 | Emerald Coast Edition | www.NWFNaturally.com Okaloosa/Walton/Bay County natural awakenings

December 2013

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letterfrompublisher

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contact us PUBLISHER Daralyn Chase Publisher@NWFNaturally.com 850-279-4102, office 888-228-8238, toll free 888-370-0618, fax CO-PUBLISHER/ DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Scott Chase, (ext. 702) Scott@NWFNaturally.com COMMUNITY LIAISONS (Pensacola/Gulf Breeze/Navarre) Judith Forsyth, (ext. 701) Jude@NWFNaturally.com Editor Martin Miron STAFF WRITER Jude Forsyth NATIONAL AD SALES 239-449-8309 FRANCHISE SALES 239-530-1377 © 2013 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.

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his is definitely my favorite time of year. Everywhere I go, there’s the smell of cinnamon, yum. Throughout the month a wave of lights begins to take over the towns. My favorite pastime during the holiday season is seeing how many folks I can catch humming those familiar holiday tunes, then stun them as I join in with my “shower time” singing. During this last month of the year, I take more time to do the things I enjoy – like spending more time with family, writing notes and sending cards to people I haven’t reached out to in a while and reflecting on the past year’s events. Each year brings about a unique feel. Some years, I like to jump right into the shopping frenzy, but other years I get more wrapped up in the spiritual awakening than the gift giving. This year seems to be one of those years. Perhaps our Awakening Humanity editorial theme this month has impacted my mood, or maybe it’s because it’s been a tough year for so many.

In this time of celebration, we’re sobered to think how difficult life has suddenly become for many in our human family. Thousands lost their homes and possessions this past autumn, and their jobs literally blew away. Countless families are suffering in the aftermath of the Philippine typhoon. And let’s not forget the people in Haiti and Japan who are still recovering from their life-changing disasters that are out of the news, but still very real.

Many of us have expressed our concerns as the Earth’s warming climate begins to rear its ugly head. It’s worthy to take up this cause and do all that we can to make a difference. But also let’s not forget to share our blessings with people who are struggling to put their lives in order.

It’s easy to help. For disaster relief to U.S. tornados and Typhoon Haiyan victims, the AMERICAN RED CROSS is accepting $10 text donations to 90999 by texting REDCROSS. Or consider a direct typhoon aid donation to CARE at Care.org, to the PHILIPPINE RED CROSS or to any number of local groups. If you unsure of any charity organization, you can do a little research at CharityNavigator.org before sending money to lesser-known organizations. For more local assistance, The SALVATION ARMY has a tornado fund: text STORM to 80888 to make a $10 donation, or donate online at Donate.SalvationArmyUSA.org/usc/2013-storms.

Another way you can help those in need is to share a Natural Awakenings magazine. Uplifting stories like our feature, “Near-Death Experiences,” enlightens our thoughts about passing over. Eckhart Tolle shines some light on the idea of spiritual awakenings in “Humanity’s Eternal Quest,” by Eric Nelson, which he states are not elusive at all, but decidedly practical. In case you may be feeling a little under the weather, “Tis’ the Season” offers some understanding, plus simple ways to feel better.

One more thing I liked to mention: as you consider gifts for your family and friends, please be sure to visit our Natural Awakenings advertisers. They’ll help you find the conscious and mindful gift for everyone on your list, which is one more way each of us can move towards a better future!

Happy Holidays!

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $15 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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Daralyn Chase, Publisher

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

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contents 6 4 newsbriefs 6 healthbriefs 8 globalbriefs 10 ecotip 1 1 practitioner

spotlight 8 12 community

spotlight 20 healingways 22 fitbody 27 healthykids 28 inspiration 30 wisewords 10 32 naturalpet 34 consciouseating 38 greenliving 41 calendar 43 classifieds 44 resourceguide

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.

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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 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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.

16 NEAR-DEATH

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EXPERIENCES

Proof of Life after Death

by Linda Sechrist

20 ‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE WISE

A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

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by Lane Vail

22 TOO MUCH

TOGETHERNESS?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

27 SWEET SLUMBER

Co-Sleeping in the Family Bed

by Mark Sisson

28 BE HAPPY RIGHT NOW

The Top Five Regrets of the Dying

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by Bronnie Ware

30 HUMANITY’S

ETERNAL QUEST

Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within

by Eric Nelson

32 PET FIRST-AID KITS

All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

34 PEACE ON OUR PLATES

Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

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by Judith Fertig

38 GREEN MERRY-MAKING

Retro-Fresh Family Traditions

by Claire O’Neil

NWFNaturally.com natural awakenings

December 2013

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newsbriefs Winter Solstice Peace and Healing Musical Journey

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Dr. Michael Brant DeMaria

sychologist, sound healing artist Dr. Michael Brant DeMaria will present a special event from 7 to 9 p.m., December 21, at the Sanders Beach Community Center, based on his work as a meditation and yoga instructor and musician.

The audience should bring a yoga mat, a small pillow and a cover to relax while DeMaria takes them through a deep healing meditation and visualization, accompanied by his Grammy-nominated music—just the thing to stay centered and peace-

ful during the holidays.

Also, DeMaria’s entire media library; $240 dollars worth of music and books, will be raffled off at the end of the evening and there will be a book and album signing.

Cost is $10. Location: 913 S. I St., Pensacola. For more information, call 850-436-5198. See ad, page 19.

LEED Model Home of the Future to Open in Shalimar

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he EcoSmart Educational Design Center Extreme Green LEED Platinum Eco-friendly Model Home educational model is slated to open to the public during January 2014, in Shalimar, Florida. “It makes it’s own energy, is sustainable, monolithic and structural,”say the U.S. Green Building Council LEED-certified builders.

EcoSmart is focused on education and providing products and services to industry professional architects, builders and consumers. The Extreme Green Eco-friendly Model Home and Sustainable Living Center consultants focus on clients desiring to learn about green construction and the latest innovative green products and services prior to green renovations or new construction projects.

Informative product demonstrations, product and services information, design assistance and packaging of approved green products and services for use with cutting-edge energy efficient, eco-friendly retrofitting ideas for homes and commercial projects and new construction are some the services they offer. Clients learn about benefits of recycling and reusing water, how to make their own energy and secure protection from storms and intruders.

For more information, email Charlie Rushing, EcoSmart sustainability director, at Charlie@EcoSmartWorldwide.com or visit EcoSmartWorldwide.com.

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Burning Bowl Ceremony at Unity In a Burning Bowl ceremony, one reflects and writes down what they intend to attract for the coming year. This is a list of what one is open to accepting into their life. It prepares one’s consciousness to receive the new blessings. Doing so is a commitment to transformation so one is renewed in ways that serve and supports a better life.

Sharing this ceremony within a spiritual community binds one’s intention to the individual and collective good. It brings the collective intent to support and strengthen one another. Everyone is in a process of growth. The Burning Bowl ceremony helps to choose how that happens.

Schedule: 10 to 11 a.m., December 29, at Unity of Pensacola, 716 N. 9th Avenue (850-438-2277) UnityPns.org; 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., January 5, at Unity of Panama City, 1764 Lisenby Avenue (850-769-7481) UnityOfPanamaCity.org; and 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., January 5, at Unity of Fort Walton Beach, 1797 Hurlburt Road, (850864-1232) UnityInFWB.org. Love offering.

Red Lotus Salon Opens in Fountain Square

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aura Baltes, formerly at the Posh Daisy, has opened The Red Lotus Salon at 196 Miracle Strip Parkway Southeast, Unit E, in downtown Fort Walton Beach.

She will hold a grand opening from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., December 14, where exclusive prizes will be given throughout the day and beverages will be available for all guests.

Nestled in Fountain Square right next to Fokkers Pub, her new salon featuring an industrial décor and carries the Italian colorline Framesi, which is a true coconut-based color.

Framesi products are sulfate-free, paraben-free, gluten-free and alcohol-free.

Baltes has 27 years of experience, beginning in Orange County, California, and says, "I wanted to create an intimate environment for my clients where they are the center of attention with no distractions.” She also features select merchandise from The Green Door Ecoboutique opening soon above Fokkers Pub. Merchandise includes handmade cashmere scarves from Afghanistan, unique calligraphy art and custom crafts from local artists.

For more information, visit Facebook.com/theredlotussalon and feel free to walk in at any time for a free consultation.

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healthbriefs

Sprinkle Cinnamon to Avert Alzheimer’s

Low T is Not a Concern Just for Men

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innamon is known as an excellent antioxidant that improves fasting blood sugar levels and prevents heart disease. Now new research offers yet another benefit and reason to add this potent spice to our daily diet.

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara, have confirmed that cinnamon helps protect against Alzheimer’s disease. They found that the cinnamon compounds cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin help stop the formation of “tangles” of tau protein in the brain, hallmarks of the memory-robbing neurodegenerative disease.

The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, says these powerful antioxidants that give cinnamon its potent flavor and scent defend mental function in a unique way. “Take, for example, sunburn, a form of oxidative damage,” explains Roshni Graves, of the university’s Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology. “If you wore a hat, you could protect your face and head from oxidation. In a sense, this cinnamaldehyde is like a cap,” protecting against tau proteins.

The findings suggest that sufficient cinnamon consumption might stop the progression of Alzheimer’s or even prevent it.

Cocoa Calms Inflammation

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ew can say no to a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s night. “Enjoy!” say Penn State researchers. They have found that a little bit of cocoa may be a powerful diet aid in helping to control inflammation and ameliorate related diseases, including diabetes. Numerous current studies link obesity to inflammation in the body.

Cocoa, although a common ingredient of chocolate, by itself has low-calorie, low-fat and high-fiber content. The researchers fed laboratory mice the human equivalent of 10 tablespoons of cocoa powder—about four or five cups of hot cocoa—along with a high-fat diet for 10 weeks. The control group ate the same diet without the cocoa.

Lead researcher Joshua Lambert, Penn State associate professor of food science, says the study results surprised the team, which did not expect the “dramatic reduction of inflammation and fatty liver disease” associated with obesity. Although the animals lost no weight, the cocoa powder supplement reduced liver triglycerides by 32 percent and plasma insulin levels by 27 percent, indicating it might be a powerful obesityfighting tool.

But there is a catch: Adding sugar, an inflammatory substance in itself, to healthy cocoa will likely neutralize the benefits. Try stevia as a sweetener instead; it’s been used for decades to lower blood sugar.

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he fact is that women using the bio-identical form of testosterone therapy can simply restore normal physiological levels. Receptors for testosterone are located in almost all tissues, including the breast, heart, blood vessels, gastrointestinal tract, lung, brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, bladder, uterus, ovaries, endocrine glands, vaginal tissue, skin, bone, bone marrow, muscle and adipose (fat) tissue.

Rebecca Glaser, M.D. and Constantine Dimitrakakis, M.D., Ph.D., wrote in the journal Maturitus in February 2013, “Testosterone is not masculinizing and does not increase aggression or cause hoarseness; testosterone does increase scalp hair growth, is mood stabilizing and is cardiac and breast protective.”

People should consult their physician about testing hormone levels, usually obtained by blood or saliva testing. Knowing our hormone levels, our physician and our pharmacist are all valuable relationships to maintain on the path to good health.

Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy is located at 1719 S. County Hwy. 393, in Santa Rosa Beach. For more information, call 850-622-5800 or visit eccpharmacy.com.

Cranberries Support Healthy Circulation

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egularly drinking cranberry juice may help control blood pressure, according to new findings presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions.

Cranberry juice, the researchers note, is rich in antioxidants—naturally occurring molecules that have been associated with the blood pressure-lowering benefit.

U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers discovered a moderate systolic pressure reduction—about three points—for people that drank two eight-ounce glasses of cranberry juice every day for eight weeks. Because of the sugar calories in juice, consider the alternative of a whole-food cranberry supplement.

Button Batteries Imperil Bambinos

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utton-type lithium batteries are all around us, powering remote controls, keyless entry devices for cars, flameless candles, watches, greeting cards and other devices. Parents should be aware that these batteries are attractive to small children and if swallowed, can dissolve and cause serious damage to the esophagus in as little as two hours.

The National Safety Council reports that the number of children swallowing these batteries quadrupled between 2005 and 2010, to 3,400 cases, yet 62 percent of parents are unaware of the danger.

To Get More, Give More

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iving away money or spending it on others increases the giver’s sense of personal wealth, according to research by Michael Norton, of Harvard Business School, and co-author Elizabeth Dunn, of the University of British Columbia.

The latest in a series of studies showed that people that support others, from helping with homework to shoveling a neighbor’s driveway, feel that they had more time in general and that giving time away relieved the sense of “not having enough time,” even more than gaining unexpected free time.

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

Genuinely Greenwashed Six Ploys to Avoid in Eco-Purchases

A report by TerraChoice Environmental Marketing exposes these six “greenwashing” marketing ploys to watch out for when shopping: 1. Hidden Trade Off: A refurbished plasma TV might reduce the need of buying new at first, but new or not, such TVs are energy hogs.

2. No Proof: Can a third party verify claims such as “organic” or “all-natural”?

3. Vagueness: Beware of products claiming to be “chemical-free” or “no hormones added”.

4. Irrelevance: Claims that have no relationship to the product or might be made with any other product in the same category, such as [chlorofluorocarbon] CFC-free shaving gel.

5. Fibbing: A falsehood that can’t be backed up, such as “certified organic” for products for which no such certification exists.

6. Lesser of Two Evils: An attempt to put a green twist on a product that’s inherently harmful to humans and the environment, such as organic cigarettes.

Escalating Thirst

Endangered Western Tree Habitats A team of scientists at the University of Grenoble, in France, have isolated ultrasonic pops 100 times faster than what a human can hear in slivers of dead pine wood bathed in a hydrogel to simulate the conditions of a living tree. They exposed the gel to an artificially dry environment and listened for the noises that occurred as air bubbles built up, blocking water uptake, similar to what occurs to trees during drought. As leaves on a tree collect carbon dioxide, they open their pores, a process that leaves them particularly vulnerable to water loss.

Douglas firs and pine trees can repair this damage as frequently as every hour, says Katherine McCulloh, a plant ecophysiologist at Oregon State University. However, the bubbles are deadly for other species.

Today, the typical forest in the often thirsty American West contains an unnaturally high density of 112 to 172 trees per acre. Besides intercepting rain and snow that would otherwise enter the groundwater supply, such an overabundance threatens native species. “Deprived of [the effect of] low-intensity, naturally occurring fires, aspen, lupine, sequoia and fireweed can’t reproduce,” notes Jamie Workman, of the Environmental Defense Fund. “Deer lose edge habitat. Threatened owls and raptors can’t navigate through increasingly dense thickets.” Workman argues that thinning out small trees is the answer.

Contributing source: Utne.com 8

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Intuitive Generosity Spontaneity Sparks Altruism

What makes people put “we” ahead of “me”? To find out, a group of Harvard University researchers enrolled thousands of people to play a “public good” game in which subjects were divided into small groups, given some money and the choice to keep it or contribute it to a common pool that would grow and benefit the entire group. Researchers discovered that those that made their decisions quickly were more likely to contribute to the common good.

Taking it a step further, the researchers applied time pressure to the decisionmaking process. They then found that those faced with making a quick decision most often chose the “we” option, while those that spent more time deliberating ended up giving less money to the group kitty.

The Massachusetts research team, which tested thousands of online worldwide participants, concluded that spontaneity and intuition guide people into rapid acts of kindness.

Arctic Rescue

Finland Calls for North Pole Sanctuary The Finnish government has adopted a new Arctic Strategy that calls for a global sanctuary around the North Pole as one of the key demands of the growing Save the Arctic movement, reversing its long-held position of backing corporate interests over the environment. The populace responded strongly to a series of actions taken by Greenpeace against government icebreaker ships aiding corporate oil exploration in order to heighten awareness of the issue. The new Finnish policy reflects a mounting world citizenry’s view that the Arctic deserves protection.

Greenpeace points out that companies can wreck the Arctic with little penalty and the current Arctic Council oil spill agreement does nothing to protect the Arctic or impose liability in this the most vulnerable place on Earth. The hope is that the other seven Arctic Council countries will see the light, as well.

Sign the petition and pitch in at SaveTheArctic.org.

Tagging Toxins

Online Database Identifies Safe Products SafeMarkets.org offers a new clearinghouse of information gathered by advocates investigating toxic chemicals in food, baby products, toys, furniture, construction materials and other consumer goods.

Families, municipalities, builders and businesses can use it to identify potentially harmful products and find safer alternatives.

Hosted by the Workgroup for Safe Markets (WSM), it’s a one-stop shop to provide information for consumers, retailers and manufacturers that are demanding safer products, says Beverley Thorpe, a WSM co-leader and consulting co-director for Clean Production Action.

Mia Davis, vice president of health and safety at Beautycounter, who is expecting her first child, sees it as a resource for parents to find a full complement of safe products for their families. “More than ever,” she says, “people understand how important it is to shop with companies they trust and to support businesses working to create truly safe products.”

Sustainable Solutions

Competition Launched to Measure Ocean Acidification As part of their mission of “making the impossible possible,” organizers of the XPrize, a global leader in incentivized competitions, have launched the $2 million Wendy Schmidt Ocean Health XPrize contest. Schmidt is president of the Schmidt Family Foundation, which strives to advance the development of clean energy and support wiser use of natural resources.

The program aims to spur innovators to transform our understanding of ocean acidification—a grave problem associated with the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide—via breakthroughs in ocean pH-sensing technologies designed to monitor and sustain ocean health.

For information and to register, visit xprize.org or Facebook.com/xprize.

Look Great for the Holidays

Acupuncture Facelift

L A S TS M O N T H S

Includes: 1. Ultrasound heating-smoothes out the collagen 2. Acupuncture-stimulates, energizes and invigorates the energy flow throughout the whole body and tightens muscles on face and neck 3. Crushed pearl herbal mask that pulls toxins from the entire system; skin looks luminous

DrSRoe.com

Dr Sheryl Roe

Nationally Certified Acupuncture Physician

151 Mary Esther Cut Off Suite 307A • Mary Esther 7552 Navarre Pky Suite 44 • Navarre, FL

850-225-3460

Also at 4012 Commons Dr. Registered Nurse for 25 Years Suite 120, inside Skin Deep Acupuncture is also available for insomnia • weight loss • stress • stop smoking Acupuncture has been proven to assist with: back • knee • shoulder • elbow pain

natural awakenings

December 2013

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globalbriefs

ecotip

Standard Returns

New Sustainable Currency Geared to Stabilize World Economy The Terra, an Internet-based trade reference currency (TRC), has been launched as a global complementary form of money to provide an inflation-resistant international value standard, stabilize the worldwide business cycle and realign stockholders’ interests with long-term sustainability.

From a legal viewpoint, the Terra is standardized “countertrade” (international barter), which is routinely used for more than $1 trillion worth of transactions each year. Countertrade legislation already exists in about 200 countries, including all the major trading nations, so introducing the Terra does not require new intergovernmental agreements.

Financial and currency expert Bernard Lietaer, one of the key architects of the European Currency Unit, the convergence mechanism that led to the Euro, posits the Terra as the first time since gold standard days that such a robust, inflation-resistant international base value has been available. He says, “This supranational complementary currency is uniquely designed, unlike national currencies, to provide a stable international mechanism for contractual and payment purposes worldwide. This mechanism would automatically work to reverse the boom and busts of the business cycle and stabilize the economy by providing more cash during downturns and cooling off inflationary pressures in the peak of an upturn.”

Perhaps most importantly, it is positioned to resolve the current conflict between short-term financial interest and long-term sustainability. The Terra works in parallel with national currencies.

Source: TerraTRC.org

Power Walking

Shoe Insert Generates Electricity Two Carnegie Mellon graduates, Matt Stanton and Hahna Alexander, are the founders of SolePower, a company making a shoe insert that stores the power generated by walking and running into a battery that can be instantly accessed via a USB port. Beta testing on the prototype has begun, with release expected next summer.

The insert can be paired with any shoe type and feels like a regular, cushy insole, according to Stanton. The battery attaches to the ankle or the top of the shoe, and is charged after 2.5 miles of footsteps with enough power to run an iPhone. Runners needing to power heat-producing mittens in the winter could also benefit.

Another application is emergency charging of cell phones and radios during power outages. People in developing nations likewise will have a reliable power source for mobile phones and other essential small electronics.

Family Games Generate Goodwill All Year Fun family games based on cards, trivia and charades are quintessential holiday activities.

Now a new generation of games adds fresh dimensions of interest and goodwill. Online games—some are free—extend good tidings to people around the world, as well as our environment. Santa is thrilled.

Eco games galore: From determining our family’s carbon footprint to making ethical decisions as a business leader or learning how to help child populations vulnerable to pneumonia, EcoGamer.org is a gateway to enriching experiences. More than 20 entertaining websites employ informative, eco-related calculations, games and quizzes.

Assist African farmers: Heighten awareness and empathy by experiencing on a virtual basis the immense challenges of life on an African farm, including dealing with disease, drought, a lack of resources and war, at 3rdWorldFarmer. com/About.html. Free trials are available, plus links to international nonprofit organizations and relief groups.

Become a citizen scientist: At FilamentGames.com/ projects/citizen-science, players travel back in time to investigate how a lake became polluted and what can be done today to protect our waterways. Developed by the National Science Foundation, in partnership with the University of Wisconsin, it illustrates business, lifestyle and social factors that can harm the environment.

Learn and feed: FreeRice.com allows players to automatically help feed hungry people with rice donations through the United Nations World Food Program. Players select from specific subjects: art, chemistry, geography, English, other languages and math. Each correct answer donates 10 grains of rice as participants watch the contents of a virtual bowl gradually fill.

Tabletop games: Bioviva (Bioviva.com), Destruct 3 (UncleSkunkleToys.com), ReThink: The Eco Design Game (PlayReThink.com), Xeko (Xeko.com) and Endango (search Amazon.com) are all new takes on the traditional pastime of board games. Some are made of recycled materials, to boot.

Source: SolePowerTech.com 10

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practitionerspotlight Bob Seton

Orthopedic And Sports Physical Therapy

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ob Seton, the owner of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy, in Destin, is a physical therapist specializing in orthopedic pathology. Seton earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Juniata College, in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, and a master’s degree in physical therapy from Hahnemann University, in Philadelphia.

They treat pain and loss of function associated with arthritis, injuries, fractures and surgery. He says, “We are different from all other physical therapy clinics because our therapists still do massage and joint mobilizations of the spine and extremities. We also offer an extremely powerful approach to pain elimination that no one else offers, providing relief in Bob Seton one to four visits.”

Seton asserts that 80 percent of his patients will see a 50 percent reduction in symptoms on the first visit. He says, “I am passionate about providing patients with the most comprehensive approach to treating their pain. The philosophy that I use takes into consideration the entire body and all of its tissues. We assess muscle, tendon, nerve and joint mobility, as well as the central nervous systems control of each.”

He believes that although we were born to be pain-free, many people unfortunately think that pain must be expected and tolerated as we age. Seton says, “I’m committed to practicing proven, cutting-edge techniques, the positive effects of which I continue to witness in the hundreds of patients I have treated.”

Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy. 12671 Hwy. 98 W., Ste. 213, Destin.

BobSeton@TherapyBob.Com. TherapyBob.Com.

Make Your Water The Best It Can Be. Softer towels

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From soft, conditioned water to the highest quality drinking water, Culligan can make your life easier and your water the best it can be.

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Limited time offer. Dealer participation varies.

Mention you saw this ad in Natural Awakenings for this special offer! natural awakenings

December 2013

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communityspotlight

by Kerry Whiteley

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or those ready and willing to open their body, mind and soul to the experience of yoga and the art of breathing known as pranayama, clarity and space for self-discovery reside. Whether we discover personal passions, talents or art, selfdiscovery is available to everyone. For Laura Tyree, owner of Dragonfly Yoga, in Ft. Walton Beach, musical talent brought her to yoga and yoga in turn opened up space for a deeper musical experience. Playing her only instrument, her voice, Tyree sings healing chants to her students as they lie in savasana at the end of her classes and also on audio recordings such as Amma Bhakti, recorded in 2007, and on a new album coming out at the end of 2014.

While yoga and chanting go hand-in-hand, Tyree’s passion for music developed many years before her first yoga class. She grew up in rural Tennessee, where her family raised cattle and horses and she spent many hot

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summers of her youth in the cooler indoors finding ways to entertain herself. She would listen to music on the family stereo system and was captivated by the voices of Barbara Streisand and Linda Ronstadt.

Tyree would try to mimic their sound while singing in the kitchen with her mother; music was an intricate part of her childhood and was ever-present. Years later, after working and spending late nights in the Tennessee music scene, Tyree was led to yoga through injury. This injury proved to be life-changing beyond her expectation, because it opened her body and soul to the “practice of the mind,� as she describes her pranayama through yoga.

Mental clarity allows the body and mind to experience the present moment while creating space for hidden beauties to rise to the surface for new ideas and better focus in daily life to emerge.

For Tyree, 27 years of yoga and mental clarity has altered her voice, enhancing

Contentment during the holidays comes when we slow ourselves down, focus on our breathing and take time to appreciate our loved ones. ~ Laura Tyree it as she became “very present” in her actions, thereby facilitating creation of many different styles of music.

For the holiday season, Tyree produced a different style of Christmas music in her album called Christmas with a Twist, debuting December 1 on iTunes. The album is done in a more mainstream jazz style, while still offering her unique musical quality. Inspired by her mother, who loved the holiday season, and those days many years ago singing together in the kitchen, Tyree offers her love of the season through familiar Christmas songs, but with a twist. While individual experiences of the holidays may differ, her intention for Christmas with a Twist is to share the love, inspiration and joy she feels during the holidays with others while giving it some variation to offer a new experience of old traditions.

Joy and peace during the holiday season can often get muddled in outward expectations to accumulate material items and overschedule our days with tasks and engagements we feel obligated to attend. Contentment during the holidays comes when we slow ourselves down, focus on our breathing and take time to appreciate our loved ones. Then we may truly open space for self-discovery and a more encompassing love for those around us, and that is a true Christmas gift. Tyree hopes those that listen to Christmas with a Twist will relax and unwind on a deeper level to embrace the present moment, allowing their minds to settle and truly connect with the season.

DragonFly Yoga is located at 184 Brooks St., Ste. 2. Contact Tyree at 850244-0184 or DragonflyYoga.com.

Kerry Whiteley is a freelance writer in Gulf Breeze and a graduate of the University of West Florida.

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“Our image of the future is instrumental in the evolution of the world.

This is what conscious evolution means,” ~ Barbara Marx Hubbard

Humanity Awakening Becomes the Change

by Darby Neptune

W

e are traveling together on this spiritual journey of life.

We have chosen to be here on this planet at this time. We have agreed to participate actively in fostering the birth of a new era of consciousness. We have a role in awakening humanity. As more people become awake spiritually, we become catalysts for a leap to new thinking, beliefs, and approaches to address personal, social and world issues in more effective ways.

“Occasionally, in the course of history a new worldview emerges that transforms society,” says Barbara Marx Hubbard, in her book, Conscious Evolution. There has been the Renaissance, the transcendentalists, the civil rights movement, the environmental movement and many more. Each of these created major shifts in our worldview.

Great changes in human consciousness usually involve both a push away from what is no longer working and a pull toward the promise of a better way. What is pushing us to evolve now is the breaking down of systems and practices that no longer work in our global interdependence, which leads to crisis. At the same time, there are new understandings of our interdependence with new ideas that are pulling us towards an exciting new future.

For example, a 100 million people have been lifted out of poverty through Muhammad Yunus' Grameen Bank's microloans. The goal is to promote financial independence and each borrower is part of a support group that agrees to abide by certain values such as schooling for children, completing home repairs and saving money. Then families are able to make larger investments for higher incomes.

Bill Gates provides a new approach to philanthropy by doing more than writing a check and hoping it will have a good result. Gates also brings his connections to ensure positive results. With the issue of vaccines, Gates built a team and led meetings with world leaders and the World Health Organization. His influence opened doors that are closed to most people. This new model is being used by other philanthropists.

Evolution raises consciousness and freedom as each leap brings new possibilities that are greater than what has come before. “Our image of the future is instrumental in the evolution of the world.

This is what conscious evolution means,” according to Barbara Marx Hubbard.

For the first time as humans, we are aware that we are consciously creating our world. It is time to fulfill our potential and participate in this exciting new

stage of our history. What can be done?

Here are two basic steps to begin living as an awakened human.

Start each day with 20 minutes to focus on being a universal human. Perhaps reflect on a great teacher/master and how they lived. For example, you could consider how Jesus demonstrated the Christ nature in his thoughts and words, his perceptions of others and the world, his love of self and others and his ability to radiate love and light in such as way that people followed him, disagreements ended and healing seemed natural. This Christ nature is already within us; it is simply a matter of choice. In living this way, our inner guidance will connect us more and more with others ready to evolve and give birth to a new consciousness.

Also set aside time to imagine our new story: a maturing universal awareness, awakened humans expanding and connecting, new technologies and ideas to create new social systems built on cooperation and creativity, and a sustainable Earth for all beings. See and feel a new universal humanity, free from old limitations, that can envision brand-new options. Visualize this new story being a magnetic field attracting the right people and ideas that quickly come together to manifest the birth of a new world consciousness that works for all.

Neale Donald Walsch states this is “a blueprint for the reconstruction of human reality so bold, and yet so completely right, as to ignite the deepest sense within us that we can and must join in this co-creation now.”

Darby Neptune is the Spiritual Leader at Unity of Panama City. Her passion is helping others with their personal and spiritual transformation that results in creating a better life. For more information, visit UnityOfPanamaCity.org.

natural awakenings

December 2013

15

Near-Death Experiences Proof of Life after Death

by Linda Sechrist

Through his research, he has identified numerous common elements that occur in NDEs—an out-of-body experience, the sensation of traveling through a tunnel, encountering a bright light (usually interpreted as God, Jesus or an angel), communicating with deceased relatives, feeling emotions such as profound peace, well-being and love, plus a flood of knowledge about life and the nature of the universe. Perhaps the most significant element he reports is the supremely conscious and superbly blissful state that exists beyond both limitations of the senses and intellect and the confines of space and time— the pure conscious form of each one’s truly real Self.

Life as Love

T

he advice that the White Queen gave to young Alice in Lewis Carroll’s Through the LookingGlass might be some of the best to offer non-believers and skeptics that question the credibility of near-death experiences (NDE). When Alice protests, “One can’t believe impossible things,” the White Queen famously retorts, “I daresay you haven’t had much practice.

When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why, sometimes I believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”

Glimpses of Grace

The majority of physicians and clinical researchers in the medical community continue to consider NDEs as impossible and merely pure fantasies generated by a surge of electrical activity as a dying brain runs out of oxygen.

However, according to a Gallup poll, the 8 million Americans whose transcendental NDEs freed their consciousness to leave the body and enter into a wondrous reality that exists completely free of physicality, believe them to be real, meaningful and lifechanging experiences.

Recently, the renowned NDE narratives of Anita Moorjani, author of Dying to Be Me: My Journey from 16

I was overwhelmed by the realization that God isn’t a being, but a state of being… and I am that state of being… pure consciousness. ~ Anita Moorjani Cancer to Near Death, to True Healing, and Dr. Eben Alexander, author of Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife, have sparked fresh public interest in NDEs, a word coined

by Raymond Moody, Ph.D., in his 1975 classic, Life After Life. Moody, a psychiatrist and professor of philosophy who has spent nearly 50 years investigating what happens when people die, has interviewed thousands of individuals that have personally experienced an NDE.

“Over the past 20 years there have been enormous strides in resuscitation technology. Defibrillators and public access defibrillation programs, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, are major factors that allow modern medicine to bring people back from a state that 100 years ago would have been labeled death,” observes Moody.

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Rushed to the hospital in a coma, Moorjani, whose body had been devoured for four years by cancer of the lymphatic system, describes the real self that she discovered during her NDE. “There I was, without my body or any physical traits, yet my pure essence continued to exist. It was not a reduced element of my whole self; in fact, it felt far greater and more intense and expansive than my physical being.

“I felt eternal, as if I’d always existed and always would, without a beginning or end. I was filled with the knowledge that I was simply magnificent,” explains Moorjani, whose cancer completely disappeared within five weeks after her release from the hospital.

“Not only did I come back with a clean slate, I brought back one of my biggest lessons—to love myself and be an instrument of love. I also returned to life here with a sense of purpose—to fearlessly be as authentically me as I can be. This means,” she clarifies, “that in whatever I do, I am acting from my sense of passion and the sheer joy of doing it.”

During Alexander’s seven-day coma in a hospital, brought about by antibiotic-resistant E. coli meningitis that attacked his brain, he left his mortal identity behind. “My brain wasn’t working at all,” he relates. “My entire neo-cortex, the part that makes us human, was entirely shut down. I had no language, emotions, logic or memories of who I was. Such an empty slate granted me full access to the true

cosmic being that I am, that we all are,” says Alexander. He further recalls that as his NDE unfolded, it occurred to him that he was being granted a grand overview of the invisible side of existence.

He also had a lovely ethereal companion that floated along on a butterfly wing, telepathically teaching him to accept the universal truth that, “You are eternally loved and cherished, you have nothing to fear, and there is nothing you can do wrong.”

“If I had to boil the whole message down to just one word, it would be Love—the incomprehensibly glorious truth of truths that lives and breathes at the core of everything that exists or will ever exist. No remotely accurate understanding of who we are and what we are can be achieved by anyone who does not know it and embody it in all their actions,” Alexander now understands.

Prior to his life-threatening illness, this neurosurgeon’s sophisticated medical training had led him to dismiss the possibility of NDEs. Today, he works at returning to his NDE state of oneness and unconditional love by using meditation and sacred acoustics, as well as quantum mechanics, to explore the nature of consciousness and higher brain function.

Like Moody, Alexander studies the ancient Greek philosophers Parmenides, Pythagoras and Plato, who took the notion of an afterlife seriously and questioned “what” survives bodily death. Alexander’s consequent nonprofit organization, Eternea, fosters cooperation between science and spirituality by sponsoring research and education about spiritually transformative experiences and holistic consciousness beyond conventional definitions.

“I had to learn a whole lot more about consciousness than I had to know about neuroscience,” quips Alexander, who now believes that the brain blocks access to knowledge of higher worlds.

“We need to accept—at least hypothetically—that the brain itself doesn’t produce consciousness. That it is, instead, a kind of reducing valve or filter that dumbs down consciousness for the duration of our human experience.

“Neuroscience can’t give you the first sentence about how the physical

“We need to accept—at least hypothetically—that the brain itself doesn’t produce consciousness.” ~ Dr. Eben Alexander brain creates consciousness,” he states, while many are finding how science and spirituality strengthen each other.

At age 37, a blood vessel exploded in the left hemisphere of Jill Bolte Taylor’s brain. A Ph.D. Harvard-trained scientist specializing in anatomy of the brain, she was fascinated to observe the breakdown of her brain-related functions.

As described in her book, My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey, she became the witness to her stroke, which initially left her unable to talk, walk, read, write or remember anything prior to that occurrence.

As her left brain shut down, Taylor lost her ability to process all language; with her mind suspended in newfound silence, she experienced an unprecedented sense of deep peace. She also experienced an inability to visually distinguish edges and boundaries between herself and the outer world.

Absent conventional orientation, “I could actually see that my skin was not

my physical boundary.

“As a result of such a glorious state of blissful realization that I am—as we all are—connected to everything and everyone around us, I no longer see myself as a single, solid entity, separate from other human beings,” advises Taylor. “Although my left mind still thinks of me as a fragile individual, capable of losing my life, my right mind realizes the essence of my being as eternal life.” She now understands that she is part of the cosmic flow of energy, which she characterizes as a tranquil sea of euphoria.

Present Possibility

In The Hidden Face of God: Science Reveals the Ultimate Truth, author Gerald L. Schroeder, Ph.D., suggests that each of us is a part of the universe seeking and finding itself. Could it be that without the mental filter and self-limiting beliefs, we are free to consciously know our higher state of wholeness and the truth of our magnificence?

Upwards of 8 million people that have experienced their own NDE are trending the world toward a tipping point into the comforting awareness that anything is possible.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAboutWe. com for the recorded interviews.

natural awakenings

December 2013

17

A Life Changing Novel!

INSIGHTS WORTH SHARING

by Linda Sechrist

A 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

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sked why she “I’ve become focused just my own enthought she ergy manifesting on seeing the perfection as cancer, because had cancer, Anita Moorjani, of life in this moment.” my fears weren’t author of Dying to allowing me to exBe Me, sums up press myself as the her answer in one word: Fear. “I was magnificent force I was meant to be,” killing myself, and cancer saved me,” advises Moorjani. says Moorjani, whose book documents She hopes that her presentaher near-death experience (NDE) and tions to medical professionals and the higher realm she encountered public speaking will influence how when her body shut down. Allowed the health profession views cancer to identify with her true magnificence, and other diseases and illnesses. undistorted by the fear generated “Treatment needs to be about more by her own lifelong self-judgment, than medicine, because so much of self-criticism, worry and lack of selfdisease has to do with our emotions,” forgiveness, she returned with a vital, she imparts, “especially the ones we heartfelt message. direct toward ourselves.”

“Everyone is an amazing, mag Through this life-enhancing expenificent being, with great capacity for rience, Moorjani came to understand health, happiness and joy. Although why she owes it to herself, everyone we’ve been conditioned to believe that she meets and life itself to always exwe need to pursue success and learn press her own unique essence. “Trying to improve ourselves to be happy, such to be anything or anyone else doesn’t steps are unnecessary, because we make me better—it just deprives me already are all we are trying to attain,” of my true self and keeps me from she says. interacting authentically with others,”

“I’d spent a lifetime feeling she explains. inadequate, beating myself up for

Moorjani now knows that all life not meeting my own expectations,” in the universe is one and our core she continues. Through the clarity is love. “I was overwhelmed by the of dwelling in the NDE realm, she realization that God isn’t a being, but understood that the cancer wasn’t a state of being… and I am that state a punishment for anything. “It was of being… pure consciousness.”

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eople don’t notice whether it’s winter or summer when they’re happy. ~Anton Chekhov

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F

or California acupuncturist Daniela Freda, counseling patients that grapple with low energy during winter is routine. “They’re often concerned something is wrong, since our society expects us to feel the same way year-round,” says Freda, who maintains a private practice in San Francisco. “But in fact,” she adds, “everything is right.”

According to a study published in Psychiatry Research, only 4 to 6 percent of Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by a predictable seasonal pattern of major depressive or bipolar disorder.

For the vast majority of the population, a slight seasonal variance in mood and behavior is normal, confirms Kathryn Roecklein, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and prominent SAD researcher at Pennsylvania’s University of Pittsburg.

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), like Freda, view decreased energy in nature’s wintertime as a reflection of the season’s energy. In this philosophy, rising (yang) and falling (yin) energies cycle as the seasons turn. Winter is governed by quiet, slow, introspective and creative yin energy. As winter yields to spring, the bright, fast, expansive and extroverted yang energy gains momentum to peak in summer.

“Nature expresses universal energies in a big way,” says research psychologist and mind-body medicine expert

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Joseph Cardillo, Ph.D., author of The Five Seasons. Who can ignore a blossoming spring or an abundant autumn?

“Those same energetic cycles,” says Cardillo, “are mirrored in the microcosmic human body and human experience.”

Chill Out

Although the December 21 winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, temperatures in most of the U.S. continue to fall through February.

Cardillo advises embracing winter’s chill because it diverts our attention from daily activities so that we pause to consider what’s important. “The effect is similar to splashing cold water on our face,” he remarks.

As the cold draws animals into hibernation and plants into dormancy, it also beckons us to enjoy extra sleep, notes Freda, as we follow the sun’s path: Earlier to bed; later to rise. She encourages her clients to incorporate restorative activities into daily routines.

“Intentionally set aside time to connect with the breath and quiet the mind,” she counsels. Try gentle yoga or t’ai chi, listen to relaxing music, curl up with a cozy book or take nature walks, flush with fresh sensory experiences.

Cardillo explains that slowing down naturally creates space for the contemplative and creative qualities of yin energy to rise. Meditating, visualizing and journaling promote access to one’s inner

Spring is a time for new Find Balance points out that within the strong beginnings, summer a time Freda yin energy of winter, “There are yang for growth, autumn for moments, celebratory moments, to us going.” An imbalance can gathering abundance and keep occur when the slowness of winter is winter for introspection. completely counteracted by too much ~Joseph Cardillo wisdom. “Winter is a perfect time to examine the myriad ideas you’ve dreamt up and assemble them into a new you,” says Cardillo. “Now you are prepared to use the robust energy of spring to scatter those ideas abroad.”

Reflect on Water

In TCM, the element of water, symbolizing focus and purity, is closely associated with winter. Highly adaptable, water can be solid, liquid or formless vapor; it can flow over, under, around or through obstacles with ease; and it can be still and contained. Contemplating the power of water in any of its forms can help synchronize one’s consciousness with the season’s gifts.

“When your mind is unstuck and flowing like water, your dreams start becoming real to you, simply because you’re in the flow, the present moment,” observes Cardillo, who also authored Be Like Water. He suggests looking to water for guidance in creating solutions, sharpening focus or moving effortlessly on to the next step.

high-energy socializing, working or rushing through the day. “An excess of yang during the winter,” counsels Freda, “rather than a glimpse of it, can deplete us,” contributing to stress, fatigue and depression.

Conversely, for those with an already predominantly yin personality (quiet, introverted, low energy) that overindulge in the yin energy of winter, an attempt at restoration and quietude can lead to lethargy and isolation. “I see this clinically,” says Freda. “Instead of embracing a little extra rest and relaxation, some people become exhausted and lose their motivation altogether.

They become stuck in the yin.”

Cardillo recommends that such individuals engage in mood-brightening outdoor activities to help restore balance. Roecklein agrees, noting that SAD sufferers undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy (which emphasizes positive thinking and beneficial behaviors) likewise are encouraged to participate in physical and social activities that bring joy and meaning.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer in South Carolina. Connect at WriterLane.com.

®

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December 2013

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fitbody

Too Much Togetherness?

Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry

by Sarah Todd

G

iven family hopes and often unrealistic expectations that everything will go perfectly, holiday gatherings can sometimes be a recipe for untoward stress. One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the-season tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move supported by research findings at Princeton University. Other experts suggest that from practicing a favorite Eastern modality to taking a natural spin around the neighborhood, we all have instant access to foolproof tactics for staying relaxed, healthy and more even-keeled among kin this winter.

To mend nerves frayed by debates at the dinner table, slip into a nearby bedroom for a calming yoga workout. Yoga’s emphasis on controlled breathing makes it ideal for treating family dynamics straight out of Silver Linings Playbook. The Mayo Clinic reports that deep breathing increases the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, easing headaches, muscular tension and chest tightness. Yogic breathing patterns also are shown to lower resting heart rates, which helps practitioners stay composed in the face of any intrafamily disagreements or other stressors.

For a quick, relaxing yoga routine, begin with a few breathing exer-

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cises before moving into a sun salutation—a sequence of full-body poses, or asanas, performed in a smooth, continuous flow. Begin standing, palms pressed together in the tadasana, or mountain, pose. Then move through a series of motions that sweep the arms over the head, expanding the chest, before dipping into downward dog and plank poses, which help increase flexibility and strength. End lying down in the shavasana, or resting, pose with eyes closed and let the quiet settle in.

Resistance-training exercises are another option. Release pent up tension by pushing against a wall. Stand about three feet away, lean in and push.

Position feet at an angle so that a straight body line forms the hypotenuse of a triangle with the wall and floor. This activity drains the limbs of tightness and stretches out hamstrings and calf muscles, enabling us to walk away feeling light and limber.

While some people can happily greet and maintain cheerfulness throughout holiday family times, others may feel a bit anxious. For a sure-fire endorphin boost, try a cardiovascular workout like running, which German researchers

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The Mayo Clinic reports that deep breathing increases the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, easing headaches, muscular tension and chest tightness. published in Cerebral Cortex confirm produces a flood of euphoria on cue.

A quick jog or spirited walk outside helps elevate mood while strengthening the immune system, helping to keep feelings of melancholy at bay.

Before heading for the door, those stretching their legs outside in colder climates need to dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer than the thermometer reads. This helps prevent the body from overheating, especially after being sedentary for an extended period. To get the blood flowing beforehand, do some simple stretching or take a few trips up and down the stairs.

Exercisers that prefer to stay sheltered from wintry weather entirely have a solid alternative; an indoor cardiovascular workout can mimic jogging’s mood-lifting effects. Try alternating 12 reps of jumping jacks, lunges, squats and crunches to get the heart pumping. Consider a second series for a higher intensity workout. All of it will give muscles that often go slack during holiday loafing a chance to flex.

Because these moves don’t require any equipment, such electives are as portable as a travel hair dryer during holiday visits anywhere.

After one or more of these solo workouts, many revelers may be ready to up the ante on family togetherness.

For a healthy dose of quality time, round up the gang and enlist them in a high-energy outdoor activity like hiking, sledding or even Ultimate Frisbee.

Participating in friendly family competition is healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later.

Sarah Todd is a freelance writer in Brooklyn, NY. Connect at SarahToddInk.com.

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s the winter and holiday festivities commence, everyone seems to be searching for a way to get the most out of their workout. Kangoo Jumps makes it feasible to protect the joints and the spine while getting the aerobic workout necessary to lose weight, strengthen the heart and prevent injury.

Aerobic exercise is necessary for cardiac health and weight loss, but can be hard on the joints. The movements associated with aerobic exercise can also create extra compression on the spine, so the trick is to find a way of getting an aerobic workout without causing stress or injury to the natural shock-absorbing system of the body.

Kangoo Jumps solves this issue by reducing the shock that individuals experience by 80 percent when performing an aerobic exercise such as running or jumping. The chronic fatigue associated with an aerobic exercise originates when the foot strikes the floor. The boot worn in Kangoo Jumps classes is constructed to cushion the movement and give the wearer rebound.

The boot also promotes proper posture while the individual wearing the boot maintains balance during the aerobic exercise or running. The rebounding movement, while wearing the Kangoo Jumps, positively affects the health of the spine and the intervertebral disc (the discs between the vertebrae) by promoting maximum function of spinal imbibition, or hydration, to the discs and spine. By hydrating the discs, nutrients are transferred and the metabolic waste products are removed. The rebound movement is essential when trying to restore and maintain ideal intervertebral function.

The rebounding exercise of Kangoo Jumps is especially good for cardiovascular flow because the workout is primarily focused on the core and the legs. It is easier on the heart to pump blood to the legs as opposed to the arms; however, in a class utilizing the Kangoo Jumps, the instructor is able to choreograph arm movements to increase cardiac output.

The Kangoo Jumps boot, “the world’s lowest impact shoe,” was developed by European physiotherapists to enable

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individuals with joint and back problems to return to running or other sport-specific training. Because of the strengthening and conditioning benefits of the boots, doctors and physical therapists are now utilizing the Kangoo Jumps boot for the rehabilitation of sports-related injuries.

Rehabilitation time often takes a toll on an individual’s muscle control and balance, but with the continuance of exercise combined with the minimal time needed for recovery associated with the conditioning given by the Kangoo Jumps, athletes can seamlessly transfer into their sport-specific exercises and resume their sport in record time.

Kangoo Jumps can help prevent injury by conditioning the body with workouts wearing the boots, improving the person’s musculoskeletal system and cardiovascular system. These improvements help to keep the body functioning and performing as it should. By having a body in peak condition, people are naturally less susceptible to injury or other health issues.

Working out in the Kangoo Jumps boot also helps to relieve symptoms associated with diabetes and arthritis. By keeping the body moving with rebound aerobic exercise, the circulation that the individual experiences within the body will help stave off the issues that arise from diabetes. The rebound movement keeps the joints from becoming stagnant and arthritic, as well as promoting bone growth, which results in improved bone density scores.

Kangoo Jumps boots and their classes help individuals to get their heart rate up, lose weight and keep moving in a safe and fun way. They naturally boost mood by making users feel happy and carefree, restoring, if for only a moment, that inner child that feels free to bounce.

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Susan Clark, PTA, is the owner of Pure Pilates, 221 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, in Gulf Breeze proper, and offers Kangoo Jumps classes at her studio. Amanda Olney, office manager of Pure Pilates, graduated from the University of West Florida with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. For more information, call 850-932-3424 or visit PurePilatesPensacola.com.

natural awakenings

December 2013

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A DV E RTO R I A L

Natural Iodine Supplementation W

A Must for Most Americans

e all need iodine, yet most of us don’t get enough of it through our diet. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that iodine deficiency in the developed world has increased fourfold in the past 40 years and now affects nearly three-quarters of all adults.

Numerous U.S. practicing physicians quoted widely in the media estimate that the incidence of hypothyroidism in our adult population may be between 30 and 70 percent.

Thus, we can’t efficiently produce the thyroid hormones that serve as chemical messengers triggering nearly every bodily function. The presence or absence of iodine affects our every cell.

Be Aware of Hypothyroidism Symptoms Low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, is the most recognized and obvious indicator of low iodine intake because the thyroid gland contains more concentrated iodine than other organs.

Symptoms can range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and a variety of skin and hair problems.

Hypothyroidism can further cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke.

Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers. In children, insufficient iodine has been strongly linked with mental retardation, deafness, attention deficient and hyperactivity disorder and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University, China’s Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and France’s National Academy of Medicine.

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Natural Awakenings Detoxifed Iodine is 100 percent natural, raw iodine in an ethyl alcohol solution. We thank all those that are benefiting from this product and enthusiastically telling us their great results.  Available only at NAWebstore.com  My wife, who suffered from extreme fatigue and other symptoms, saw a dramatic increase in energy after just a few days of taking the natural iodine drops. Now if she misses a day, she’ll end up falling asleep in the middle of the afternoon, like she used to do before taking the iodine. It works! ~ Aaron My doctor told me that I had a hypothyroid condition, prescribed medication and was happy with the follow-up test results, yet I noticed no positive effects on my overall wellbeing. Within two weeks of using the Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine, I had more energy, felt more awake and enjoyed clearer thinking and greater peace of mind. People even comment that I look younger. I am a fan! ~ Larry

Reasons Behind Iodine Deficiency Radiation: Almost everyone is routinely exposed to iodine-depleting radiation emitted by cell phones, Wi-Fi, microwave ovens and other electronic devices.

Iodized table salt: The human body cannot utilize the iodine added to this product.

Low-sodium diets: Failure to use healthy salts to fulfill sodium requirements, plus overuse of zero-nutrient table salt in foods, leads to iodine depletion.

Bromine: This toxic chemical overrides iodine’s abilities to nourish the thyroid, adrenal and other hormone-producing glands.

A known carcinogen, it is used as an anticaking ingredient found in almost all baked goods, unless the ingredients specifically cite unbromated flour.

Iodine-depleted soils: Due to poor farming techniques, iodine and other minerals in soil have declined, so most foods today are devoid of naturally occurring iodine.

Proper iodine supplementation with a high-quality product like Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine can prevent harm by protecting the thyroid and other endocrine glands and restoring proper hormone production.

healthykids

incidence of sudden infant death syndrome when breastfeeding is practiced.

In the clinical experience of James McKenna, Ph.D., a University of Notre Dame professor and leading anthropologist in the field, “Breastfeeding mothers typically keep their babies away from pillows, positioning their infants on their backs, while placing them below the parents’ shoulders and raising their arms above them.” Plus, the adults “lay on their sides in ways that can prevent accidental overlays.”

Co-sleeping builds parent-child bonds. Research published by the

Sleep Research Society shows that mothers who co-sleep with their babies are more attuned to their sleep/wake habits and can respond quicker to their needs.

According to the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, skinto-skin touch increases the secretion of oxytocin, a bond-building hormone.

Sweet Slumber Co-Sleeping in the Family Bed

by Mark Sisson

E

very young mammal on Earth sleeps in close contact with its mother and other family members.

They’ve been co-sleeping for security, warmth, comfort and protection for millions of years of evolution.

Although it is generally frowned upon in the United States, many human cultures, including most in East Asia, the Pacific islands, South America, Africa and much of southern Europe, have a rich tradition of co-sleeping. In At Home: A Short History of Private Life, Bill Bryson relates that until very recently, most domiciles centered around a central room, or hall, where everyone slept together. Even today, adults and children almost always sleep together in the same beds in non-industrialized, traditional societies worldwide.

The modern practice of placing babies in separate rooms at night, often to cry themselves to sleep, appears to be a historical aberration. Co-sleeping, conversely, is the age-old norm because it offers so many benefits to both parents and children.

confirm a consistent link between cosleeping and breastfeeding in countries as disparate as Brazil, Britain, Malaysia and Sweden. Breast milk provides immunological benefits, transfers symbiotic gut bacteria and promotes bonding between mother and child.

It’s especially nutritious if the mother’s diet is healthy, and breast milk is the only food experts agree the human body is unquestionably designed to consume.

Co-sleeping improves sleep. A

mother that can breastfeed without leaving the bed will get more sleep.

Also, more research from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows a lower

Co-sleeping fosters maturation.

Studies in the Infant and Child Development journal show that kids that share a bed or sleep in the same room with their parents grow up to be more selfreliant and socially independent, better behaved, less anxious about intimacy as adults and more likely to be happy.

Parents that are nervous about sharing beds can try room sharing, where the baby sleeps in an adjoining crib or cot; family members will experience many of the same benefits.

Mark Sisson is a former marathon runner and triathlete. He is the author of the bestselling health and fitness book, The Primal Blueprint, and publisher of the health blog, MarksDailyApple.com.

Co-sleeping makes breastfeeding easier. Studies published by

the Acta Paediatrica, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics natural awakenings

December 2013

27

Lakota Advice for Life Friend do it this way—that is, whatever you do in life, do the very best you can with both your heart and mind.

And if you do it that way, the Power Of The Universe will come to your assistance, if your heart and mind are in Unity.

When one sits in the Hoop Of The People, one must be responsible because All of Creation is related.

And the hurt of one is the hurt of all.

And the honor of one is the honor of all.

And whatever we do affects everything in the universe.

If you do it that way —that is, if you truly join your heart and mind as One —whatever you ask for, that’s the Way It’s Going To Be. Source: Passed down from White Buffalo Calf Woman and Sapphyr.net.

28

inspiration

BE HAPPY RIGHT NOW The Top Five Regrets of the Dying

by Bronnie Ware

P

eople grow a lot when faced with their own mortality. As a palliative caregiver for many years, I learned never to underestimate someone’s capacity for personal growth. After wrestling with a variety of intense emotions, every patient I saw found their peace before they departed.

When questioned about regrets or what they would have done differently, five themes emerged.

I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me. This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled.

Most people had not honored even half of their dreams and died knowing that it was due to choices they had made or not made. Health brings a freedom very few realize until they no longer have it.

I wish I hadn’t worked so hard. Every male patient that I nursed felt they had missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship. They deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence.

Women also spoke of this regret, but because most were from an older generation, many had not been breadwinners.

I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings. Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace

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with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. As a result, many developed illnesses apparently related to the bitterness and resentment they carried.

I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends. Many were disappointed they had not truly realized the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks, and it was not always possible to track them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip away.

Many deeply regretted not giving important friendships the time and effort that they deserved.

I wish that I had let myself be happier.

Many did not understand until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits.

The so-called comfort of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others and to themselves that they were content, when deep within, they longed to laugh with gusto and cultivate some silliness in their life.

Bronnie Ware is the author of The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing, a memoir of how people she cared for changed the way she lives. She blogs at InspirationAndChai.com.

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T

o listen to Eckhart Tolle is to be reminded that anything is possible—for anyone.

We’re not talking about living a life of leisure, filled with expensive cars, beach homes and extravagant vacations, but an experience brimming with the kind of spiritual insights that make this life not only worth living, but decidedly more fulfilling.

The problem is that when people hear the words “spiritual insight”, there’s often an assumption that it’s about something too ethereal to be practical or too elusive to be achieved in this lifetime.

This is exactly the point that Tolle, one of the world’s most well-known spiritual teachers and authors, rebuffed during a talk earlier this year at California’s Stanford University.

“Some people awaken spiritually without ever coming into contact with any meditation technique or any spiritual teaching,” he said. “They may awaken simply because they can’t stand the suffering anymore.”

He went on to cite examples of those that have either been told they have a short time to live or have been given an exceptionally long prison sentence. In both cases, any thought of a future has been effectively dashed, forcing these individuals into what Tolle describes as an intense awareness that there is only the present moment, with no more future to escape into mentally.

The result is a lot less suffering.

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“That is the real spiritual awakening, when something emerges from within you that is deeper than who you thought you were,” says Tolle.

“So, the person is still there, but one could almost say that something more powerful shines through the person.”

The good news, according to Tolle, is that in order to experience this awakening, “You don’t have to wait for the diagnosis by the doctor or to be put in prison… nor do you have to do 30,000 hours of meditation or live in an ashram for 20 years.

Once you get a glimpse of it, you can invite it into your daily life.”

For a growing number of people, it’s this understanding of the always present “spiritual you” shining through that has led to significant improvements in their lives, not the least of which is better health. This would seem to indicate that these kinds of spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal or elusive, but decidedly practical.

“Spirituality and religion belong in the healing paradigm,” writes Airdre Grant, Ph.D., of Australia’s Southern Cross University, in a study published in the Journal of the Australian TraditionalMedicine Society. “They are determinants of health and they are factors in recovery, well-being and longevity.”

So where do these insights come from? Is it simply a matter of wishful thinking? Or is it perhaps something more reliable, more effective than that?

“Jesus said, ‘The kingdom of heaven is photo by David Ellingsen

Steps towards Addiction Free Pain Management:

Spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal or elusive, but decidedly practical. within you,’” observes Tolle, implying that this health-inducing understanding may be a lot closer than we thought. “I think if he lived nowadays, instead of ‘kingdom’, he would have said, ‘dimension’. And ‘heaven’ refers to a sense of vastness or spaciousness. So if we retranslate the words of Jesus into modern terms, [it would be] ‘the dimension of spaciousness is within you.’”

“And then Jesus said—when they asked him, ‘Where is the kingdom of heaven and when is it going to come?’— he said, ‘The kingdom of heaven does not come with signs to be perceived. You cannot say, ah, it’s over there or look, it’s over there, for I tell you the kingdom of heaven is within you.’”

How comforting it is to be reminded that the proverbial “kingdom of heaven” we’ve been hearing about for at least two millennia—this “dimension of spaciousness”, or what might be characterized as the understanding of our true spiritual identity—is “within you.” It’s within us all, here and now.

All that remains is the willingness— and the humility—to put this insight into practice.

Eric Nelson is a Christian Science healing practitioner from Los Altos, CA, whose articles on the link between spiritual consciousness and health appear regularly in national online publications. Connect at norcalcs.org.

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December 2013

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naturalpet

Pet First-Aid Kits All-Natural Home Health Care

by Sandra Murphy

F

“

irst-aid is the first thing you can do to help an injured animal if you are prepared,” says Dr. Jason Nicholas, owner of The Preventive Vet, in Portland, Oregon. Attention in cases of injury or sudden illness can help a dog or cat stay more comfortable, stop bleeding and provide temporary relief.

A pet first-aid kit can resemble a pantry more than a medicine cabinet.

Natural components include:

Cool water. Purified water kept in a spray bottle can cool overheated pets.

For the fastest results, spray near the pulse points, the “armpits” and where fur is the thinnest. Further, a vet will assess if clinical hydration is needed beyond the water bowl.

Saline solution. Versatile saline is available at the vet’s office or any pharmacy, and also easy and inexpensive to make at home. Use it to flush debris from eyes, clean wounds and promote healing from incisions.

Two teaspoons of non-iodized salt in four cups of boiled water mimics body fluids. The Ohio State University Medical Center website provides a recipe for normal saline solution at Tinyurl.com/SalineRecipe.

Vinegar. It acts as a drying agent, especially for floppyeared dogs taking a dip in a pool or natural waterway, which can leave the inner ear moist. “Don’t use vinegar if the skin is red or broken because it will be painful,” says Dr. Jules Benson, vice president of veterinary services

32

at Petplan Pet Insurance, in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Never use it more than twice a week.

Honey. Apply this sweet unguent to gums to help counteract low blood sugar and shock, particularly when a diabetic pet’s insulin levels are off.

Maple syrup is a good substitute.

Sugar. Although not recommended in a regular pet diet, sugar can be a topical antibacterial for the short term.

Sugar draws water from the wound and dehydrates bacteria, supporting growth of new tissue.

Plain yogurt. Adding this healthy refrigerated topping to dry food will activate a sluggish appetite and supply needed cultures to help balance the digestive system.

Cornstarch. This non-toxic remedy helps stop minor bleeding from cuts, scrapes and pedicure accidents.

Calendula. Also known as pot marigold, calendula cream may be used as an anti-inflammatory. Bug bites, scrapes, sunburn and itching from allergies also benefit from its application.

Aloe. Easily grown in a garden or pot and available in gel form, aloe sooths burns, prevents blisters and speeds healing. It also serves as canine Chapstick. “Older dogs often have cracked skin on their noses,” notes Benson. “Aloe helps to heal the skin and keeps the dog comfortable.”

Rescue Remedy.

Illness or injury brings stress, and one common solution is Rescue Remedy. To relieve fear or anxiety, rub it onto a paw, nose or ears or add the recommended number of drops to water, a treat

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or food. It helps dogs, cats, horses, birds, fish and even iguanas. Dosage relies on the extent of stress rather than weight or species.

Clean cloths. For bee stings or insect bites on the body, cool compresses can reduce swelling and itching. Wet a washcloth with cold water or for larger welts, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply for a few minutes at a time. For stings on the face or mouth, it’s best to go to the vet’s office immediately, so that airways don’t swell up and hinder breathing.

Miscellaneous supplies. Keep on hand gauze, tape, small scissors, tweezers (for removing objects from the roof of the mouth or splinters), a small flashlight, clean socks to cover a bandage and disposable gloves to keep human germs out of open wounds. A dog in pain may bite without realizing it.

Nicholas recommends a basket muzzle, so the dog can easily breathe and pant.

When a pet eats or drinks non-food items or foods they shouldn’t, such as chocolate, grapes or onions, head to the local vet. Veterinarian Jeff Levy, in New York City, who is also a certified veterinary acupuncturist, counsels, “Always keep contact information for your vet, an emergency hospital and animal poison control center handy.” Also, find out where emergency services are located when traveling.

Pets can go into shock just like humans. To prevent or reduce the impact, keep the animal warm and provide a deep massage of the ears, at the base, where ears meet the head. A couple of drops of lavender oil on a collar or bandana will help everyone relax. Do not put essential oils directly on the pet, especially cats, as it can be toxic.

Just like children, pets may have accidents or get sick after office hours.

Stay calm, head for the natural pet pantry and then call the family’s holistic veterinarian.

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLSandyM@ yahoo.com.

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On the Go? Get Mobile

consciouseating

events classes workshops products providers To Download the local app, search

NWF Naturally at the following stores

Peace on Our Plates Mindful Eating for a More Peaceful World

by Judith Fertig

A

s Earth’s population grows to a projected 9 billion people by 2050, can our global community keep eating flesh like we’ve been doing for centuries? No, according to a 2010 report by the United Nations Environment Programme, an international panel of sustainable resource management experts. Examining the food demands of a growing population and associated environmental and sustainability issues, Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Consumption and Production recommends “substantial worldwide diet change away from animal products.”

Making the case for a holistic view, Will Tuttle, Ph.D., suggests in World Peace Diet: Eating for Spiritual Health and Social Harmony that we start to see the connections between our food choices and the health and well-being of ourselves, our families, communities and the world.

Web of Understanding

At the center of the web of life is the food we all share to sustain our bodies. Tuttle insists that we celebrate this and regard each meal as a feast. “Food preparation is the only art that allows us to literally incorporate what we create.

It is also the only art that fully involves all five senses,” he says. We honor this 34

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wonderful activity most by sharing our cooking efforts with others, blessing the food and eating mindfully.

The problem at the center of life, maintains Tuttle, is that we involve animals in our food chain, an act that “introduces suffering, whether physical, mental or emotional.” This is a truth we try to hide from, what he calls the ”cultural shadow”. “The worst examples include factory farming, but even the best methods ultimately involve killing other animals for food,” he says.

One of Tuttle’s more controversial claims is that the herding culture—raising, dominating, selling, killing and owning animals—sets up a harmful physical, emotional and cultural dynamic, extolling domineering and aggressive behavior. “The herding culture requires male dominance and a mentality that might makes right,” observes Tuttle. “It also sees females as primarily breeders, not beings.” Based on contemporary research in anthropology, sociology and psychopathology, he maintains that the actions required to both dominate animals and eat their meat can lead to more aggressive and violent behavior.

One recent study seems to support his claim. Dr. Neil Barnard, in his book, Foods That Fight Pain, remarks that, “Plant-based diets also help tame

photo by Stephen Blancett

Download the Northwest Florida’s Natural Awakenings App to Find

Tip: Cook whole-grain or spinach pasta, potatoes, rice or another recommended grain in a large quantity to store in the refrigerator for use in stir-fries, salads and other meals later in the week. testosterone’s activity.” Barnard cites a Massachusetts male aging study of 1,552 men ages 40 to 70, which indicated that men eating more fruits and vegetables than meat were less domineering and aggressive, because the increased sex hormone-binding globulin produced by plants helps keep testosterone in check.

“If we continue the meat-centric way of eating, we’re going to continue to have the problems that come with it,” says Tuttle. “The way forward is plant-based agriculture.”

Practicing a World Peace Diet The Tuttles shop for fresh, organic and non-GMO (genetically modified organism) foods and favor what they call “blueprint recipes”, that vary from day to day. Each outlines the makings of a dish and encourages cooks to be intuitive in how they fill in the details.

For a typical breakfast, for example, Tuttle and his wife, Madeleine, will make a green smoothie that includes kale, banana, apple, grapes, ground flax, chia seeds, cinnamon and fresh ginger. “It’s a flexible drink,” says Tuttle.

“We will swap out whatever organic fruits and vegetables we have so that we vary the flavor from time to time.”

For example, they might use parsley, spinach, or chard leaves in place of kale, or citrus in place of grapes.

Lunch is usually a wrap-type sandwich, sometimes using fresh leaf lettuce or a whole-wheat tortilla. One recent example of such a wrap combined tomatoes, peppers, sprouts, walnuts, tempeh and avocado. A dinnertime blueprint recipe involves a base of cooked rice, quinoa, pasta, mashed potatoes or polenta, topped with a vegetable ragout, cooked or raw.

“You could live the rest of your life mixing and matching these ingredients and never have the same meal twice,” notes Tuttle. “We have been doing it for 30 years. If we all choose to eat like this, the world could feed everybody on a fraction of the land now consumed by agriculture.”

Coming Next Month

SPECIAL EDITION

Health & Wellness Rev Up Healthy Choices in the New Year Local & National Experts Show You How

Learn more at WorldPeaceDiet.org/ articles.htm.

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

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Peace Blueprint Recipes When sitting down to eat, look at what’s been created to nourish all those gathered. Enjoy the colors, smells, tastes and love that blesses the food. May the principle of Oneness govern all beings.

Raw Vegetable Ragout with Brown Rice

Green Smoothie

Yields two servings

Yields two servings

Rice: 1 cup brown rice 2¼ cups water Raw Vegetable Ragout: 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into strips ½ cup finely chopped celery ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped ¼ cup finely chopped Italian parsley ¼ cup toasted, chopped walnuts 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, minced 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp coarse kosher or sea salt

Start dinner with a base of cooked rice, potatoes, quinoa or polenta and top it with a vegetable medley.

To start the day, use a high-powered Vitamix-type blender to reduce whole fruits and vegetables to a smooth juice.

If using a regular blender, cut the fruits and vegetables into small pieces and strain the purée after blending.

1 banana, sliced 1 large apple, peeled, cored and chopped ½ cup seedless green grapes 1 cup chopped kale leaves 1 cup baby spinach leaves 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds ¼ cup ground chia seeds ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves 1 cup purified water

Place all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Strain, if necessary, to remove larger pieces; pour into two glasses and serve.

Whole Wheat and Vegetable Wrap

For lunch, a simple wrap can provide a daily change-up mixing in different fresh ingredients plus a plant-based flavoring like dried herbs, spices or

garlic stirred into the Vegenaise or homemade eggless mayonnaise.

Yields two servings 2 10-inch whole-wheat tortillas 2 Tbsp Vegenaise 1 tsp prepared horseradish, or to taste 1 cup fresh lettuce, torn into pieces ½ cup sprouts ½ cup chopped fresh tomatoes ½ cup shredded fresh carrots ½ cup diced fresh cucumber 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced ¼ cup toasted walnuts

Toast walnuts by placing them on a baking sheet in a 350-degree oven for 15 minutes. Cool, and then chop.

Place the tortillas on a flat surface.

In a small bowl, mix the Vegenaise and horseradish together. Spread the mixture on the tortillas. Top each tortilla with half the lettuce, sprouts, tomatoes, carrots, cucumber, avocado and walnuts. Roll each tortilla into a wrap and serve.

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Glendale (850) 859-2141 Memorial 297 Railroad Ave., Defuniak Springs Nature Located just off of U.S. Highway 83 Preserve About 10 miles north of DeFuniak Springs 36

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat and simmer covered until tender, about 40 minutes.

While the rice is cooking, combine the red bell pepper, celery, Kalamata olives, Italian parsley and walnuts in a medium-sized bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and salt. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, stir until well blended, and then let rest until the rice is done.

To serve, spoon the cooked rice onto each plate and top with the raw vegetable ragout.

Source: Adapted from Intuitive Cooking, by Madeleine Tuttle (WorldPeaceDiet.org).

Areas Only Farm to Table Restaurant Featuring Local, Organic Produce, Poultry and Dairy, Gluten Free, Vegetarian and Vegan Options Owned and Operated by

Longtime Local Chefs and Holistic Nutrition and Lifestyle Specialists

Amy Likins and Christian Echele (Formerly of Cafe Organic)

Nutritional and Holistic Life Style Programs for Groups and Individuals by Appointment

Areas Only Full Scale Juice Bar

with Fresh Wheat Grass and Ginger Shooters

Cooking, Juicing, Detox Classes and Workshops

This Month at Synergy Dec 7th and 21 • 9am-1pm

Christmas Markets - Organic Produce and Local Artists and Vendors- Fort Walton Landing Park

Dec 17th

850.865.4919

Free Wi-Fi

Holistic Wellness Talk- Roots of Disease and the Power of PreventionEsthers Garden Navarre Florida

120 Miracle Strip Pkwy, SE

Now Open in Historic Downtown Section of Fort Walton Beach

SynergyOrganicCafeFWB.com

Open Tues- Saturday 8am-3:30pm

Your friendly neighborhood health store.

339 NW Racetrack Rd, Suite 3 Ft Walton Beach, FL

850-863-5811

Jan 11th - Feb 19th

40 Days to Total Health and Wellness

Jan 11th • Jan 25th • Feb 8th

New Year New You Reboot Your Health Organic Juicing, Yoga and Wellness Retreat

Health Foods & Natural Vitamins Herbs & Homeopathic Remedies Organic Meats • Aroma Therapy Gluten Free Products • Organic Wines Multi-Vitamins • Bone Health Weight Loss & Workout Single & Combination Herbs Men’s & Women’s Hormone Balance Heart Health • Liver & Kidney Health Mind Health • Digestive Health

JUICE MON- BAR HOU R FRI 9A M-3PMS

MON-FRI 9AM - 6PM • SAT 10AM - 4PM

www.GoldenAlmond.com natural awakenings

December 2013

37

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Have a Happy, Pain-Free Holiday You’ve tried the rest, now try the best!

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38

hroughout the year, Santa’s good girls and boys of all ages make every effort to buy only what’s needed, plus recycle, reuse and repurpose. Then the holidays hit and discipline often gives way to indulgences. The season seems consumed by up-tempo decorating, feasting, shopping, giftgiving and merrymaking at any cost. Yet, creative green living experts show us how easy it is to tweak time-honored family traditions to align with the green way we wish to live and feel even more satisfied with festivities.

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

For Danny Seo, author of Upcycling Celebrations: A UseWhat-You-Have Guide to Decorating, Gift-Giving & Entertaining, “Upcycling is basically a form of recycling that elevates something to a better level than before.” Based in New York City and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Seo always has an eye out for green possibilities. “Opt for vintage pieces and re-imagine them in new and interesting ways,” he advises. For example, he likes to upcycle a vintage glass cake stand with a collection of bright ornaments for a unique holiday focal point.

Michele Johansen, a lifestyle writer in Bellevue, Washington, suggests bringing in the outdoors. Instead of decorating the tree with tinsel and the home with plastic faux greenery, she suggests stringing popcorn and cranberries on the tree and decking the halls with fresh wreaths and garlands accented with boughs of holly. “Local nurseries are good sources for holiday décor that you can later mulch or put in yard waste bins,” she says. “The smells are much more authentic and festive.”

Save energy by using LED lights whenever possible, suggests Sheryl Eisenberg, a writer for the National Resources

www.NWFNaturally.com

Defense Council. Plug lights and electronics into a power strip, and then unplug it when not in use to save “ghost” energy pulled by electronics that are plugged in, but not activated.

Buy a live tree to later plant or recycle, Seo suggests.

This supports regional Christmas tree farmers while retaining the integrity of local forests. Many communities offer recycling of holiday trees to provide mulch or habitat for aquatic life in local lakes.

Keeping the Feast

Organize a cookie exchange to get together and save time and energy on holiday baking, suggests Sara Novak, a food policy and health writer at SereneKitchen.com, from Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina. Generally, a hostess asks guests to bring several dozen of their favorite cookies. Once gathered, attendees share the treats and recipes, taking home several of each variety. To “green it up”, Novak recommends emailing the recipes rather than printing them, encouraging invitees to use fresh and local ingredients and bring favorite reusable containers from home, like a colorful, time-honored cookie tin.

For the holiday table, mix and match settings of plates, glasses, linens and cutlery. “Use the real thing,” Eisenberg recommends, “and recruit guests to help wash up afterwards.”

She recalls that while growing up, her mother supplemented her silverware with grandmother’s for large holiday dinners.

Save your own energy—and sanity—by asking family and friends to bring an appetizer, side dish or dessert. The hostess can assign a dish and corresponding recipe or use a potluck approach, says Eisenberg. Leftovers go home in nonplastic, reusable containers.

Gift Giving

Many families enjoy giving traditional gifts to children at certain ages, like dollhouses or train sets. Re-imagine these and, when possible, buy local to save energy and support area businesses, suggests Eisenberg.

Cintia Gonzalez, an Australian mom, crafted a dollhouse from an old suitcase, inventively using black chalkboard paint for the exterior, wooden shelves as floors and fast food ketchup cups as lampshades (Tinyurl.com/UpcycleDollhouse).

Another mom transformed a discarded coffee table into a painted train table for her boys.

Upcycle paint chip cards into colorful gift tags, suggests Seo. Plus, use gift wraps that become part of the gift itself, such as placemats swaddling a bottle of wine, fabric to encase quilting supplies or sheet music enveloping concert tickets.

As a general rule, “Give experiences, not gifts,” counsels Eisenberg. “Giving loved ones experiences reduces wrapping paper, ribbon and packaging and is an easy way to be a bit more personal over the holidays. Your teenage niece may love a spa day, complete with hair styling, while your favorite aunt and uncle may be thrilled to attend a local wine tasting.

If you think a young child can tolerate a few less presents in exchange for a pass to an ice show or dance class, go for it.”

“It’s the holiday experience that counts,” counsels Seo. “It’s what makes memories.”

Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer from Kansas City, MO.

natural awakenings

December 2013

39

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

We offer a large variety of natural and certified organic products, vitamin supplements, local and organic produce, environmentally friendly products, and hot, wholesome lunches from the deli. Mon-Sat. 7am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pm.

OFF THE VINE ORGANIC PRODUCE

850-374-2181 • OffTheVine.org We are the original Organic Box Program.

All organic – all the time! 100% Guaranteed.

We bring the Farmer’s Market to you. Simply check our weekly list every Friday.

Mixed Fruit and Vegetable shares, All Fruit shares and Juicing shares. Local pick up locations or delivery available.

FARMS and FARm Tours ANITA & MARK’S HAPPY BOVINE & SWINE FARM 8770 Redfish Point Rd Lillian, AL • 251-942-2126

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.

ARROWHEAD BEEF

Chipley, FL tony@floridagrass-fed.com 850-270-8804 Grass-fed beef: No hormones, no antibiotics, no corn. Raised right and sent off good.

Selling individual cuts at the markets of Seaside and Rosemary.

CAMBRIDGE FARMS

3200 Deloach Ln, Milton, FL 850-855-6420 Cambfarm@gmail.com CambridgeFarms.web.com State of Florida Certified grower. We grow and sell natural fruits and produce. Pesticide free. Fresh and safe to eat. Farmer’s Market Program. Ongoing educational classes.

40

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

THE GREEN MAN’S GARDEN

Local Pesticide Free Produce Saturdays at SeaSide Farmers Mkt 850-218-6998 Local, sustainable, exclusive, clean produce.

Nutrient dense grown in healthy soil. Bio dynamically influenced practices. Call for seasonal harvest. Serving Okaloosa & Walton.

KATAHDIN GRASS FED LAMBS

American, All Natural Grass Fed Florida.KatahdinHairSheep@gmail.com KatahdinGrassFedLambs.com 850834-3333 Exceptional flavor, low fat content, high in omega-3s and CLA. Available year round.

Delivered to processor no charge. Dresses 50% of live weight. Visitors welcome.

MOONLIGHT MICRO FARM

6618 Beach Dr Panama City Beach, FL 850-624-7075 Chandra@MoonlightMicroFarm.com We are dedicated to community & environmental Stewardship. Offering heirloom and organic gardening & sprouting seeds and permaculture design. Visit us at Seaside Farmers Market, we ship.

FARMERS’ MARKETS 30A FARMERS’ MARKET @ ROSEMARY BEACH

Rosemary Beach Town Center Sunday, Year Round 9am-1pm Thursday, Memorial Day through Labor Day from 9am-1pm.

Rain or Shine.

Local fresh produce, eggs, meats, seafood, honey, baked goods, artisan breads, gelato, cheeses, jams, preserves. Market will have an International flair. Manager – Diane Kolopanas. 850-213-0577.

DESTIN’S MAIN STREET MARKET

Saturday 9am-1pm Destin Water Users (Parking Lot) 218 Main St, Destin Facebook/Destins-Main-Street-Market Fresh baked goods, local produce & honey, organically grown herbs & lettuces, farm fresh eggs. Art, jewelry, crafts & collectables. Wild and handcrafted jams, jellies, soaps, scrubs and body care. Vendor space available. Tom & Amy Holt. 850-855-6384.

www.NWFNaturally.com

FORT WALTON BEACH FARMER’S MARKET

2nd Saturday beginning April 13 8am-12pm Lots of fresh produce, olive oils, jams, jellies, dips, sauces, baked goods, homemade baked doggie treats, juice bar, local honey.

Ferry Rd (Fluid surf shop) & 201 Miracle Strip Pkwy S.E. rear lot.

NICEVILLE FARMERS MARKET

1st Saturday Monthly 7am-12pm 120 Partin Dr N, Niceville 850-729-2120 Facebook/NicevilleFarmersMarket Local fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, bread, fresh eggs, meats and seafood, wild crafted soaps and body scrubs and more. Open for new vendors. Hosted by One 20 a Modern Bistro.

PALAFOX MARKET

Saturdays 8am-2pm Open Air Farmer & Art Market MLK Jr. Plaza, Palafox St (between Garden & Wright Sts) Sponsored by the Pensacola Downtown Improvement Board, the Palafox Market offers fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art and antiques. Items originate directly from onsite vendors.

SEASIDE FARMER’S MARKET

Saturdays 9am-1pm Downtown Seaside (behind “Raw & Juicy” at the amphitheater) jlkuntz@mac.com or on Facebook Comprised of local growers and crafts people who offer locally grown produce and farm products that are healthy and environmentally conscious.

MEET UP gROUPS REALFOOD, PANAMA CITY Meets Every 3rd Saturday 850-747-7055 Unity, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Meetup.Com/Realfood-GroupPanama-City

RealFood Panama City promotes the development of an informed community through open and inclusive food awareness opportunities focused on health and wellness through locally grown, nutrient dense, sustainably produced, whole foods.

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.

savethedate Sunday, DecemBER 1 Transcendental Meditation Into – 6pm.

Prudence Farrow Bruns, PhD provides an introduction to Transcendental Meditation founded

by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Free. The TM technique brings deep, revitalizing rest to both mind and body. reduce stress, restore energy and unfold mental potential. Classes start 12/6-12/9.

The Life Center, a Spiritual Community. 9721 Thomas Drive, PCB. 850-234-7978. Facebook/ com/TheLifeCenterPCB/.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Thriving in Joy – 1-3pm. In this interactive workshop, Myshell Howler will show us how to balance all areas of our lives and return to bliss at a moment's notice. Love offering. Unity of Panama City, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City. 850-769-7481. UnityPCFl@gmail.com. UnityOfPanamaCity.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 Harness Your Spiritual Gifts – 6-7pm. A guided healing meditation to tap into and expand on your natural spiritual gifts. Grow your spiritual hearing, sight, and knowing. $15, reservation required. Via teleconference. 850-585-5496. AliceMcCall@ earthlink.net. HealingPath.info.

Candle Making – 6:30pm. Learn how to make chemical-free candles out of numerous media that you can then scent with essential oils instead of synthetic scents that may lead to breathing difficulties, asthma and allergy symptoms. Make some for yourself or for heartfelt gifts. $25. Esther's Garden of Healing, 8184 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-6843230. EsthersGardenOfHealing@live.com.

savethedate Saturday, DecemBER 7 The World Becomes What You Teach, Creating a Sustainable, Just, and Healthy World Through Education – 10am-3pm. Forum open to the general public, academia and government. Guest speaker Zoe Weil, worldwide leader in humane education, and president, Institute for Humane Education. $25.

Downtown Library, 239 N Spring St, Pensacola.

Mary Gutierrez: 850-549-7472. EarthEthics.us.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Overview of Herbal Medicine – Dec 7 & 10. Sat, 1-3pm; Tues, 6:30pm. Learn how to use inexpensive bulk herbs to cure your family’s ailments and

discomforts. Workshop covers infusions, decoctions, tinctures, capsules and salves; a review of basic herbs and their uses. You will know how to replace items in your medicine cabinet with herbs or essential oils. $30. Esther's Garden of Healing, 8184 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-684-3230. EsthersGardenOfHealing@live.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 Career Institute Open House – 6-9pm. Come for a time of fellowship, refreshments, chair massages by students, entertainment by Dain Babb. Free. Career Institute of Health and Esthetics, 1008 Airport Rd, STE C, Destin. 850-543-4919. CareerInstituteDestin@gmail.com. CareerInstituteDestin.com.

Overview of Herbal Medicine – 6:30pm. See Dec 7 listing. $25. Esther's Garden of Healing, 8184 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-684-3230. EsthersGardenOfHealing@live.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 Reiki Level I Class: Training & Certification – 1-4pm. Learn from a master Reiki teacher to use the universal life force energy for relaxation, selfhealing and to help others. Works on people, pets, plants, even situations. $75/includes manual and certification. Destin. Details, registration: 501-5209777. Paula@PaulaRenaye.com. PaulaRenaye.com.

Nutrition Link to Disease and Good Health – 6:30pm. Could nutrition be used to heal such ailments as arthritis, heart disease, cancer, thyroid disease and inflammatory disorders? Learn about the link between nutrition and disease and how to heal with juicing and other dietary changes. Amy Likens, Synergy, Fort Walton Beach, will be leading the journey of knowledge. $10. Esther's Garden of Healing, 8184 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-6843230. EsthersGardenOfHealing@live.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 Winter Solstice Meditation – 9-10:30am. Connect with the special energies of the shortest day of the year with Alice McCall, preparing for the new energies of 2014. Reservations required. Via teleconference. 850-585-5496. AliceMcCall@earthlink. net. HealingPath.info.

topics suitable to support harmony of living in the season. Concludes with meditation. $20/early, $25/at the door. Navarre Living Yoga, 8162 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-346-3577. NavarreLivingYoga@ gmail.com. NavarreLivingYoga.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29 Meditation with Alice McCall – 3-4pm. Guided healing meditation to balance and transform your digestive tract during the holidays, with a focus on too much sugar. Free, reservations required.

Via teleconference. 850-585-5496. AliceMcCall@ earthlink.net. HealingPath.info.

Master Mind – 1-2pm. Discover Jack Boland's successful process for creating your best life through prayer partners and the Master Mind program. The power of making intentions and holding the vision for others' intentions has changed lives. Love offering. Unity of Panama City, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City. 850-769-7481. UnityPCFl@gmail. com. UnityOfPanamaCity.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 World Healing Day Celebration – 6-7am. Come together at the end of the year with people worldwide to meditate and create a renewed intention for world peace. This includes John Randolph Price's Interplanetary Commission for Peace and dedicating ourselves to positive action. Free. Unity of Panama City, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City. 850-769-7481.

UnityPCFl@gmail.com. UnityOfPanamaCity.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 Cooking to Decrease Inflammation and Aid Weight Loss – Jan 4 & 7. Sat, 1-3pm; Tues, 6:30pm.

Lose the pounds gained over the holidays through a dietary regimen focused on anti-inflammatory foods. Delve into a gluten free, dairy free, soy free and grain free eating plan without being bored.

Many samples such as almond flour doughnuts and quinoa pilaf. $20. Esther's Garden of Healing, 8184 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-684-3230. EsthersGardenOfHealing@live.com.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7 Manifest Your Heart’s Desire – 6-7pm. Acknowledge, set and manifest all that you desire for 2014.

Special focus on aligning with your spiritual direction during this energetically powerful time. Reservations Required. Via teleconference. 850-585-5496.

AliceMcCall@earthlink.net. HealingPath.info.

Cooking to Decrease Inflammation and Aid Weight Loss – 6:30pm. See Jan 4 listing. $20.

Esther's Garden of Healing, 8184 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-684-3230. EsthersGardenOfHealing@live.com.

Make Body and Hair Care Products – 1-3pm. No reason to settle for mass produced shampoo with preservatives that can harm you. Learn how quick and easy it can be to make your own shampoo, facial toner, facial cleanser and much more using common herbs you may already have on hand. $20.

Esther's Garden of Healing, 8184 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre. 850-684-3230. EsthersGardenOfHealing@live.com.

Nature Nurture: Winter Solstice – 11am-1pm.

Celebrate life’s gift of winter on the shortest day of the year. Explore the season’s relationship to the solar system, mathematics and introspection. Explore

natural awakenings

December 2013

41

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.

sunday Urban Zen Yoga Class – 10:30am. In a world of over-stimulation and over-work, these practices can offer you a meditative sanctuary. No yoga experience necessary. $15 drop-in and packages available. Dragonfly Yoga, 184 Brooks St. FWB. 850-244-0184. DragonflyYoga.com.

Meditation – 12-1pm. Renew yourself.. Unity of Panama City, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City. 850769-7481. UnityOfPanamaCity.org.

Pilates Equipment Class – 9am. See schedule online for additional classes and times. $28/drop in, $220/10 classes. Pure Pilates, 221 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze. 850-932-3424. Info@purepilatespensacola.com. PurePilatesPensacola.com.

Yoga for Women – 10am. A time to be at ease and enjoy. A class tailored to the needs of today’s woman. $10. Dragonfly Yoga, 184 Brooks St SE, FWB. 850-244-0184. DragonFlyYoga.com.

Yoga for Charity – 4:30pm. $5 donation to Paws.

Dragonfly Yoga, 184 Brooks St. FWB. 850-2440184. DragonflyYoga.com.

Kids Martial Arts Combat Class – 4:45pm (ages 4-8); 5:45 (ages 9-13). Mon/Wed/Fri. Friendly family oriented with small classes, all levels. Great for fitness, confidence, and camaraderie. Free introductory class. No contracts. Martial Arts Combat Academy, 1605 N. Partin, Niceville. 850-797-9429.

monday

tuesday

Discounted Spa Services – Pamper yourself at student clinics with discounted massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Appointments required. $10-$35; gift certificates available. Career Institute of Health and Esthetics, 1008 Airport Rd, STE C, Destin. 850-543-4919. CareerInstituteDestin@ gmail.com. CareerInstituteDestin.com.

Personal Nutritional Consultation – 1st and 3rd Tues. Dr. Kenawy, Ph.D. provides in-depth nutritional evaluations and consultations. $50. 634 W. 23rd St, Panama City. Call for an appt. 850-7638871. OliveLeavesPC.com.

Yoga – 8:45am. Restorative Yoga for beginners and experienced. Love offering. Unity of Panama City, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City.

Vinyasa Flow Yoga Classes – 9:30am. See schedule online for additional classes and times. $12/drop in, $10/with a package. Pure Pilates, 221 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze. 850-932-3424. Info@purepilatespensacola.com. PurePilatesPensacola.com.

Baby and Me Yoga – 11am. Bond with your baby or toddler while teaching them the importance of body awareness. This intimate class is for parent and child age 0-4. $16, $56/4 weeks; preregistration

required. SunshineYogaStudio, 211-E Main Street, Destin. 850-687-8603. Kim@sunshineyogastudio. com. SunshineYogaStudio.com.

Free Light Energy Therapy Seminar – 5:306:15pm. Stress will shorten your life.Learn how to reduce stress and pain the natural way without drugs. Free. Limited seating, 24 hour advanced RSVP required. 850-864-4281. consultant@cox.

Blossom Yoga Center, 315-A Racetrack Rd NE, FWB. BuddyBowman.com.

Open Mike at Crestview Library – 6-7:45pm. 2nd Tues. Poetry & Music Jam is an open-mic for poets and musicians to read, perform, improvise and play together. Everyone is welcome, even if you don’t write poetry or play music. Free. Crestview Library, 445 Commerce Dr., Contact Esther, 850-682-4432 or Rick Sanders 850-585-6399. Visit the library’s Facebook page or tumblr blog.

Meditation & Pranic Healing Clinic – 6:157:30pm. Promoting general wellness, stress reduction, mental focus. Healing clinic offered after Twin Hearts guided meditation. Free. Bodyworx Fitness & Wellness Center, 115 Gregory Sq, Pensacola.

850-221- 2381. PranicHealingOasis@gmail.com.

PranicHealingCentralGulfCoast.com.

Personal and Planetary Peace – 7pm. Meditation, stress release, energy work, Reiki sharing and certification, networking, healthy food support. Free.

Crystal Cottage, 7338 Hwy 2301, Panama City.

Darce Blakely, Reiki Master. 850-763-4504.

Teen and Adult Martial Arts Combat Class – 7pm. Ages 15 and up. Friendly family oriented with small classes, all levels. Defense techniques, fitness, confidence, and camaraderie. Free introductory class. No contracts. Martial Arts Combat Academy, 1605 N Partin, Niceville. 850-797-9429.

wednesday Gentle Flow Yoga with Felicia McQuaid – 10am.

Beginner based therapeutic movement combined w/ breath awareness. Dragonfly Yoga. 850-217-2771.

FeliciaMcquaid.net.

Meditation Circle – 11am. A weekly meditation offered to all those interested in learning meditation or if you meditate on a regular basis. Typically led

by Darce Blakely. Love offering. Unity of Panama City, 1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City. 850-7697481. UnityOfPanamaCity.org.

A Course in Miracles – 6:30pm. Complete selfstudy spiritual thought system to the way of universal love and peace. Ongoing group. Love offering.

Unity of Panama City, 17964 Lisenby Ave, Panama City. 850-769-7481. UnityOfPanamaCity.org.

Community Yoga – 6:30-7:45pm. Class led by Power Core Vinyasa instructor Kendall Andrew. $10 or donation. Yoga Elements, 108 Carillon Market St, Panama City Beach. 850-866-2199. YogaElements108.com.

Metaphysical Book Study – 6:30-8pm. A lively discusssion of important metaphysical texts. Currently using Lessons in Truth by Emily Cady. This is an open class; books are available for use. Love offering. Unity of Gulf Breeze, 913 Gulf Breeze Parkway,

42

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

Harbourtown Village, Gulf Breeze. 850-932-3076.

RevDave52@gmail.com. UnityOfGulfBreeze.org.

Gentle Flow Yoga – 9am. Classes are beginner friendly. Focus on gentle, therapeutic movement, breath awareness and meditation.. $10 drop in military/student/senior. Dragonfly Yoga, 184 Brooks St #1, FWB. 850-217-2771. FeliciaMcQuaid.net.

thursday Nutritional Live Blood Analysis - See what’s happening inside your body today. It’s educational and helpful for planning your health and wellness nutrition and activities. Call for a 30 min appointment. $60. Destin Athletic Club, 868 Harbor Blvd, Destin. 850-3681296. Zolanagy1980@gmail.com. ZoltanHealth.com.

Deep Healing Yoga – 11am. This class blends Yoga poses, Pranayama and Meditation, resulting in a restorative, healing yoga practice. Great for beginners or those with arthritis. $14, packages available.

SunshineYogaStudio, 211-E Main Street, Destin.

850-687-8603. Kim@SunshineYogaStudio.com.

SunshineYogaStudio.com.

Kids Yoga – 4:30pm. Pass down the principles and traditions of yoga to the children so they will lead the world into a more peaceful tomorrow. Ages 5-12 only. $13, $40/4 weeks. SunshineYogaStudio, 211-E Main Street, Destin. 850-687-8603. Kim@SunshineYogaStudio.com. SunshineYogaStudio.com.

Yoga for Beginners – 5:30pm. Here’s a class at the right pace for those just starting to enjoy yoga.

Simple and fun. Dragonfly Yoga, 184 Brooks St. FWB. DragonflyYoga.com.

Healing Meditation – 6:45pm. 3rd Thurs. Experience meditation, music and healing prayer. With an opportunity for an individual to receive a brief Reiki treatment, oneness blessing or personal healing prayer. Love offering. Unity of Gulf Breeze, 913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Harbourtown Village, Gulf Breeze. 850-932-3076. RevDave52@gmail.com.

UnityOfGulfBreeze.org.

Teen and Adult Martial Arts Combat Class – 7pm. Ages 15 and up. Friendly family oriented with small classes, all levels. Defense techniques, fitness, confidence, and camaraderie. Free introductory class. No contracts. Martial Arts Combat Academy, 1605 N Partin, Niceville. 850-797-9429.

friday Discounted Spa Services – Pamper yourself at student clinics with discounted massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Appointments required. $10-$35; gift certificates available. Career Institute of Health and Esthetics, 1008 Airport Rd, STE C, Destin. 850-543-4919. CareerInstituteDestin@ gmail.com. CareerInstituteDestin.com.

Breastfeeding Support Group – 9:30am. With lactation counselor. Free. Growing Green Bums, 296 Bayshore Dr, Niceville. 850-279-6647.

GrowingGreenBums.com.

This class is a Hatha-Vinyasa blend. $14/for 2.

SunshineYogaStudio, 211-E Main Street, Destin.

850-687-8603. Kim@SunshineYogaStudio.com.

SunshineYogaStudio.com.

saturday Fit Camps and Wellness Evaluations – All ages and levels are welcome. Bring a mat and some water. Workouts are usually 30-45 mins. Free. Core Nutrition, FWB. 222B Miracle St Pkwy SE, 850362-8888. CoreNutritionFWB.com.

Calm Water Tai Chi Class – 9am. Designed for self-defense, realize the health benefits, stress reduction and strength improvement with gentle movement. New class. All ages and levels. Free introductory class. No contracts. Martial Arts Combat Academy, 1605 N. Partin, Niceville. 850-797-9429.

classifieds Submit classified entries online only at NWFNaturally.com. The submission form is located on the Advertising web page. $20 for 20 words, $1 per extra word. classes/Training Energy Self Help Center - You are the co-creator of you life! Learn how with LOA Coaching services. Call for appt. 850-835-5680. www. aperfectyou4life.com NUTRITION AND FITNESS COACH - Don’t let the turkey burn you. Get the tools you need to thrive this holiday season. 850-368-1296. BeyondZFit.com.

OPEN ENROLLMENT MASSAGE THERAPY, SKIN CARE AND NAIL CARE CLASSES – Call today to enroll. Day and night classes avail. Class size is limited. Career Institute of Health and Esthetics.

1008 Airport Rd. Unit C, Destin. 850-543-4919. CareerInstituteDestin@gmail.com.

Kundalini Yoga – 9-10:30am. Gentle Kundalini yoga, breathwork and meditation. With Diana Waglis. $6, $20/4 classes. Unity of Gulf Breeze, 913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, STE 26, Haurbourtown Village, Gulf Breeze. 850-932-3076. UnityOfGulfBreeze @gmail.com. UnityOfGulfBreeze.org.

Teen and Adult Martial Arts Combat Class – 10:30am-12pm. Ages 15 and up. Friendly family oriented with small classes, all levels. Defense techniques, fitness, confidence, and camaraderie. Free introductory class. No contracts. Martial Arts Combat Academy, 1605 N. Partin, Niceville. 850-797-9429.

Child and Me Yoga – 11am. Bond with your child with some partner poses while teaching them the importance of a healthy body and attitude. For parent and child ages 5-12. $18/for both, $5/each additional child; prereg req SunshineYogaStudio, 211-E Main Street, Destin. 850-687-8603. Kim@SunshineYogaStudio.com. SunshineYogaStudio.com.

Aerial Yoga – 11am-12:30pm. A challenging, empowering, restorative and fun yoga off the mat in a hammock. Yoga Elements, 108 Carillon Market St, Panama City Beach. 850-866-2199. YogaElements108.com.

Organic Color Systems, to fill positions as Color Specialists. Only Serious candidates should apply.

Salon Vedat, Destin: 813-841-4890.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – 9:30-2:00 The annual Okaloosa Saves Eco-Nomic Living Expo promotes smart choices in the areas of Money, Home, Health and the Environment. Free. To support this valuable community outreach, call Sharon McAuliffe at 850-797-2505 or email smcauliffe@ nextstopparadise.com.

pRODUCTS JUICE, SMOOTHIES, SOUPS AND SALADS. Enjoy our juice and smoothie bar; organic salads to go and organic soups (cold months). 9am-3pm. Mon-Fri. Golden Almond Health Store. 339 Racetrack Road, NW. FWB. 850-863-5811. GoldenAlmond.com GRASS-FED BEEF. Now carrying Arrowhead grass-fed beef from Chipley, FL. Golden Almond Health Store. 339 Racetrack Road, NW. FWB. 850863-5811. GoldenAlmond.com.

SERVICES

help wanted

Friday Yoga with Felicia – 10am. This fun upbeat class is what Friday is all about. Join Felicia to move, breathe and enjoy the moment. $15 drop in or packages available. Dragonfly Yoga Studies, 184 Brooks St #1, FWB. 850-217-2771. FeliciaMcQuaid.net.

MASSAGE ENVY DESTIN LOCATION – hiring licensed massage therapists. We invite you to be part of making a difference in those you touch.

National franchise with competitive compensation.

Earn a great living in a professional supportive environment in which to practice your art. Front desk associate positions also available. Email resume to: Clinic0941@MassageEnvy.com.

2 for 1 Yoga – 5:45pm. It's Happy hour for the yogi. Bring a friend and split the drop in fee.

SALON PROFESSIONALS NEEDED – with valid Florida Cosmetology License for training in

GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH & WELLNESS Gift certificates available for nutritional coaching; personal, group, & family training; blood analysis.

Call for appt. 850-368-1296. BeyondZFit.com.

LET ONE OF OUR KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF MEMBERS HELP YOU with your questions on natural and organic foods, herbs, supplements and anti-aging products. Golden Almond Health Food Store. 339 Racetrack Road, NW. FWB. 850-863-5811. GoldenAlmond.com.

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communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Advertising@NWFNaturally.com to request our media kit or visit our Advertise web page at NWFNaturally.com.

ACUPUNCTURE DR. SHERYL ROE

Acupuncture Physician Navarree • FWB • Destin 850-225-3460 • DrSRoe.com

Acupuncture Works! Learn how it can work for you at either office (Navarre Healing Center in Harvest Village, Mary Esther Blvd, Skin Deep Destin). Treating all types of pain, addiction, sleep disorders, stress, fibromyalgia, PTSD. Feel better soon.

See ad, page 9.

KERRY ABACO

Acupuncture Physician 2633 Hwy 77, Suite B, Panama City 850-628-8412

Panama City’s premier acupuncturist treating lower back, knee, neck and shoulder pain, emotional disorders, gastrointestinal, gynecological, musculoskeletal, addictions, allergies, arthritis, migraines and other conditions. Practitioner of oriental medicine and provider of Chinese herbs. See ad, page 39.

KOVAR CHIROPRACTIC & NATURAL WELLNESS CENTER John S. Kovar D.C. 29 G Miracle Strip Hwy SW, FWB 850-244-1200 DrKovar.com

Experience the many benefits of acupuncture. Restoring health naturally to patients for over 30 years.

Dr. Kovar also offers chiropractic care, nutrition response testing with designed clinical nutrition, and massage. See ad, page 4.

Beauty LAURA BALTES-MASTER STYLIST Red Lotus Salon 196 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Unit E, 714-348-5962 LauraBalt9@msn.com

Master stylist with 27 years’ experience, trained extensively at the Vidal Sassoon Academy and other wellknown beauty schools. Expert at cutting, styling and coloring. Every client receives full consultations before any work begins, ensuring a great styling experience and fantastic results. Call today.

SALON VEDAT

Janice Skene 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 24.

blood analysis Zoltan “Zoli” Nagy

In Destin Athletic Club 868 Highway 98 East Destin, FL 32541 850-368-1296 zolanagy1980@gmail.com www.zoltanhealth.com

Certified Live Blood Analyst, NBAR, Certified Holistic Health Coach, IIN, Certified Personal Trainer, ACE A drop of blood is analyzed under a microscope then computer processed for recommended nutrition and supplements. See ad, page 13.

Rebecca Freeman, AP, MAOM 60 2nd st. Ste 202, Shalimar 850-651-0160

Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with over 12 years’ experience relieving pain, stress, fatigue, allergies, digestive disorders, depression. Age gracefully inside and out with Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupunture. See ad, page 12.

TORTOISE CLINIC

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Waterside Business Center, SRB 850-267-5611 • TheTortoiseClinic.com

Serving the Emerald Coast for over 20 years. Currently offering multiple styles of acupuncture, bodywork, hypnotherapy, diet counseling and the area’s largest raw herb pharmacy. See ad, page 33.

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BODYWORKERS Caroline Cook

Holistic Practitioner (MA54501) THE Healing Clinic of Fort Walton Beach, LLC 850-217-2771 thehealingclinicfwb.com

Caroline’s years of experience translate into her compassionate healing touch through Massage and Reiki therapeutic work. Visit her at THE Healing Clinic for Relief and WELL-Being. See ad, page 31.

Felicia McQuaid

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

Director & Holistic Practitioner (MA61060) THE Healing Clinic of Fort Walton Beach, LLC 850-217-2771 thehealingclinicfwb.com

Felicia is a Transformation healer that offers a unique blend of Reiki/Massage Therapy sessions. Her insight and understanding in the language of Energy will amaze you. See ad, page 31.

Laura Tyree

Holistic Practitioner (MA68035) THE Healing Clinic of Fort Walton Beach, LLC 850-217-2771 www.thehealingclinicfwb.com

Laura’s hands share experience, knowledge, clarity and grace. She specializes in Massage, Led Light Therapy and specializes in Raindrop Technique with Young living oils. See ad, page 31.

its all about you

Denise Williams, Owner/Therapist 417 Racetrack Road, NW., FWB 850-314-6642; ItsAllAlboutYouSpa.com

We are a full-service Day Spa dedicated to the care and wellness of our clients. Our specialties are medical, pregnancy and Thai massage along with detox body treatments antiaging facials, Brazilian waxing & Mani/Pedi’s. See ad, page 13.

MASSAGE ENVY SPA DESTIN

34904 Emerald Coast Pkwy #132 M-F 8am-10pm, Sat 8-6,Sun 10-6 850-650-8500 • MassageEnvy.com

Stress relief is one of the first benefits that come to mind when thinking of massage therapy. Clinical studies show that even a single 1 ½ -hour session can significantly lower heart rate, cortisol levels and insulin levels, you’ll feel, look and simply be healthier far into the future. See ad, page 5.

CHIROPRACTIC BLUEWATER CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS CENTER

April Lee, DC 4400 Hwy 20 E, Niceville 850-897-1177 • BluewaterChiropractic.com

Natural and holistic health care. Offering chiropractic care, lumbar decompression, physical therapies, massage therapy, nutritional education and supplementation. Allow the body to heal the way it was designed.

HENARD FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Karen Henard, DC 4566 Hwy 20 E, Ste 205, Niceville 850-897-1105 • HenardChiro.com

As a second generation chiropractor, Dr. Henard is committed to lifetime chiropractic wellness care for the entire family, improving their health naturally. Over 16 years’ experience in pediatrics, sports and automobile injuries.

Most insurance accepted and affordable cash plans.

KOVAR CHIROPRACTIC & NATURAL WELLNESS CENTER John S. Kovar D.C. 29 G Miracle Strip Hwy SW, FWB 850-244-1200 DrKovar.com

Practicing locally for over 30 years, expertise in treating pain conditions, auto injury and restoring health naturally through nutrition response testing, clinical nutrition, acupuncture, and massage as well as chiropractic wellness care. See ad, page 4.

colonic therapy SKINDEEP CLINIC WELLNESS CENTRE

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

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.See ad, page 20.

compounding pharmacy Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy Pharmaceuticals Built For You, Because You Are Unique 1719 S County Hwy 393 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 850-622-5800 • ECCPharmacy.com

Pharmaceutical Compounding that can formulate your prescriptions to meet your individual needs. Providing ompounding for Hormone and Thyroid Replacement Therapy, Dermatology, Pain Management and other areas. Regina Jaquess, Pharm D. See ad, page 39.

PHARMACY

Kevin Bandy, RPh • Amy Frazier, PharmD 82 Mack Bayou Loop, Ste B, Santa Rosa Beach 850-622-0730 • Fax 850-622-0755 MBCPharmacy.com MackBayouPharmacy@yahoo.com

Pharmaceutical compounding is a useful tool in varied areas of medicine. We work with patients and physicians to customize a medication to meet their specific needs. Personalized prescription compounding may be just what you need. Call today to speak with a pharmacist. See ad, page 8.

DENTISTRY

2227 Ferdon Blvd, Crestview 850-682-8893 Find Us on Facebook

Knowledgeable staff and cutting edge digital health assessments. Dairy free and gluten free food items, supplements, homeopathic solutions and anti-aging products, plus delicious nutritional smoothies. See ad, page 29.

ESTHER’S GARDEN OF HEALING, LLC 8184 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566 850-499-3670 Esthersgardenofhealing@live.com

A unique establishment specializing in over 150 bulk herbs, over 40 loose teas, homeopathic remedies, and our own herbal skincare line. Find us on Facebook for an updated schedule of our weekly workshops. See ad page 19.

DR. DAYTON HART, DMD

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

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.

FITNESS & TRAINING MARTIAL ARTS COMBAT ACADEMY 1605 N. Partin Dr, Niceville 850-797-9430 MartialArtsCombatAcademy.com

Adult and teen modern day selfdefense. Kid’s classes tournament base with an emphasis on “Stranger Danger” and introductory week and no contracts.

FOODS & SUPPLMENTS ARROWHEAD BEEF

Chipley, FL tony@floridagrass-fed.com 850-270-8804

Grass-fed beef: No hormones, no antibiotics, no corn. Raised right and sent off good. Selling individual cuts at the markets of Seaside and Rosemary.

See ad, page 36.

GOLDEN ALMOND HEALTH FOOD STORE

339 Racetrack Rd NW # 3 850-863-5811 • GoldenAlmond.com Hours: M-F 9-6, S 10-4, Closed Sun.

Natural and organic foods.

Largest selection of herbs and supplements in the area.

Enjoy our new fresh juice bar (M-F,10-4). Knowledgeable and personable staff. See ad, page 37.

SYNERGY ORGANIC JUICE BAR AND CAFÉ 120 Miraclestrip Pkwy SE 850-865-4919 SynergyOrganicCafeFWB.com

Juice Bar and Café offers farm-to-table meals prepared with regionally sourced organic produce and pantry items, including gluten-free and dairy-free. Whole food cooking, juicing, glutenfree, vegetarian, vegan and raw food classes are available. See ad, page 37.

healing arts HEALING PATH, ALICE MCCALL Transformational Energy Healer and 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.

BODY-B-HEALTHY

MACK BAYOU COMPOUNDING

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LIFE COACHING

Holistic health coach Zoltan “Zoli” Nagy

Beyond Fit, LLC in Destin Athletic Club 868 Highway 98 East Destin, FL 32541 850-368-1296 zolanagy1980@gmail.com ZoltanHealth.com

TERRI AMOS-BRITT,

BRENDA Q. BISCHOFF, CLC, CHT CI

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

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.

Certified Hypnotherapist and Master Life Coach.

Hypnosis is powerful anytime a change in feeling, thinking or behavior is desired. My mission is your success. Call today.

Grayton Beach: 100 E. Co. Hwy 30A • 850-534-4534 Downtown Pensacola: 16 N. Palafox St. • 850-438-5119 RockHardDesigns.com

Mauricia Stanton, PhD,ARNP,BC 850-279-6815 1005 College Blvd W ,Ste B, Niceville Find & Like Us on FACEBOOK.

Experience the soothing healing light and energy photons to gently reduce stress and bring your body into balance. Promotes natural healing of the body by itself, the way it was designed to do and nature intended. Located inside Blossom Yoga. Painless, convenient, affordable, noninvasive and drug-free. See ad, page 20.

Dr. Stanton holds a PhD in Natural Health and sees patients for all types of health concerns. Specializing in Womens care and children 12years and up. Always accepting new patients. See ad, page 7.

NITIN BAWA, MD

DrBawa.com Destin: 850-424-7320 Panama City: 850-534-4170 Santa Rosa Beach: 850-534-4170

Massage Therapy BLUEWATER CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS CENTER

General medicine with a holistic wellness approach and specialized services in Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy, weight loss, food allergies, nutritional analysis and anti-aging procedures. Most insurance accepted. See ad, page 23.

April Lee, DC 4400 Hwy 20 E, Niceville 850-897-1177 • BluewaterChiropractic.com

Sports and rehabilitation massage therapy. Natural and holistic health care. Chiropractic care, lumbar decompression, physical therapies, nutritional education and supplementation. Allow the body to heal the way it was designed.

PILATES PILATES CORE TRAINING Barbara Bruni, Owner 2130 Summit Blvd, Pensacola 850-287-5836 PilatesCoreTraining.com Gift Certificates Available

NATURAL BURIAL GLENDALE MEMORIAL NATURE PRESERVE

Mat, Yoga, cycle, Gyrokensis, and equipment classes or private session for a personalized experience. Website lists instructors, class schedule and prices.

297 Railroad Ave, DeFuniak Springs 850-859-2141 GlendaleNaturePreserve.org

A Natural End to a Natural life.

Green natural funerals. Natural setting. Embalming fluid free.

BiodeFitness and Rehabilitation Pilates Classes & Private Sessions tailored to individual needs gradable elements. Cost-effective • GYROKINESIS Classes & Private Sessions on the GYROTONIC funeral arrangements. Located off Pulley Tower RETIREMENT LIVING • Massage Therapy including the John F. Barnes Technique U.S. Highway 83, 10 miles north of of Myofascial Release • Cranial Sacral Therapy (#MM27450) THE BLAKE AT GULF BREEZE • Cycle From Your Core Classes DeFuniak Springs. See ad, page 36. ®

®

Brooke Hicks 850-934-4306 • BlakeLiving.com 2130 Summit Blvd. l Pensacola, FL 32503

• Yoga • We use Young Living Essential Oils

A retirement, assisted living, and memory care community inspiring wellness in an enriched environment. Also, shortterm respite program for caregivers to have their loved one stay as a guest; enjoy the many services and personalized care. See ad, page 25.

pilatescoretraining.com l 850-287-5836

International award winning jewelry designs. Museum style gallery. Finest diamond collection in the region.

Over 6,000 ergonomic original designs. Certified harmony green metal, refined not mined. Certified ethical gems. See ad, page 17.

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EMERALD WATERS

Buddy Bowman, Quantum Light Energy Coach 315-A Racetrack Rd, FWB 850-582-4929 • BuddyBowman.com

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

ROCK HARD DESIGNS

physician

LIGHT FOR LIFE

TERESA BROWN

JEWELRY

Innovative pain treatment, different than anything you’ve tried before! Specializing in Primal Reflex Release Therapy. Find relief today from injuries, arthritis, headaches, muscle strain, postsurgical pain. See ad, page 23.

Light therapy

INTUITIVE ARTS

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.

Bob Seton, PT 12671 Hwy 98 W, Ste 213 Destin 850-650-4186 TherapyBob.com

Abundance coaching for yourself, your relationships and career. Let me empower you with tools to deal with life’s situations. I’ve coached globally from moms to CEOs for over 10 years. See ad, page 24.

DESTIN HYPNOSIS

Tom Mueller, CMC, CHt 850-865-0285 • DestinHypnosis.com Facebook.com/DestinHypnosis

Orthopedic Sports Physical Therapy Center, LLc

Former Miss USA Spiritual Coach + Energetic Healer 4012 Commons Dr W, Ste 120, Destin 850-654-9946

Certified Kettlebell Coach, IKFF, Certified Holistic Health Coach, IIN. Ex-Pro Hockey Player gives a new spin on health and fitness.

Experience powerful change inside and out. See ad, page 13.

HYPNOSIS

Physical therapy

Natural Awakenings of Northwest Florida

www.NWFNaturally.com

Retreat & Spa

sKIN CARE

OCEAN ELEMENTS DAY SPA

OCEANA NATURALS, LLC

Located in the 30-A community of Gulf Place 850-267-1011 OceanElementsDaySpa.net

Holistic Spa Therapies. Massage Therapy. All Natural Facials.

Botanical Peels. Aluminum Free Microdermabrasion. Therapeutic- Natural Nail Services.

Gentle Waxing. Body Treatments, Scrubs & Wraps.

Reiki. Chakra Balancing. Tuning Forks. Aromatherapy. Herbs. Wellness Consultations and Supplements. See ad, page 21.

ROLFING NANETTE SAVAGE CERTIFIED ADVANCE ROLFER

SCHOOLS BEACHSIDE MASSAGE SCHOOL

381 Santa Rosa Blvd, Ft Walton Beach 850-226-7878 beachsidemassage@gmail.com beachsidemassages.com

Looking for that new career in the growing field of massage therapy?

No waiting for a new class to start, begin immediately at beachside massage school. See ad, page 36.

CAREER INSTITUTE OF HEALTH AND ESTHETICS 1008 Airport Rd. Unit C, Destin 850-543-4919 CareerInstituteDestin@gmail.com CareerInsituteDestin.com

Career Institute offers a comprehensive program in Nail Care, Skin Care and Massage.

Enroll today! Also, offer CEs and Student Clinics for all programs. See ad, page 12.

learning rx, Pensacola 4300 Bayou Blvd. Ste 34 850-466-4999 LearningRX.com/Pensacola

Train the brain. Get smarter, Guaranteed.. With a faster, smarter brain, life is easier. And that’s something to smile about. Call us today and schedule a FREE brain training demonstration for you and your child. See ad, back cover.

SKINDEEP CLINIC WELLNESS CENTRE

Michael J Russ 866-242-3776 PureSunscreen.com

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. See ad, page 21.

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. See ad, page 20.

spiritual center

TWELVE OAKS RECOVERY CENTER

The Life Center

9721 THOMAS DR PCB (850) 234-7978 www.facebook.com/TheLifeCenterPCB Drop in.

2068 Healthcare Ave, Navarre, FL 850-939-1200 TwelveOaksRecovery.com

Twelve Oaks, a 102-bed, drug and alcohol treatment center, specializes in treatment of addictions and co-occurring disorders. Call for a free, confidential assessment. See ad, page 30.

A Spiritual Community of New Thought and Ancient Wisdom Service Time, Sunday 10am.

Meditation-Teaching, Sunday 6pm.

MA-0028169 850- 621-6101

Let me help you achieve greater balance and mobility by creating a more lifted and symmetrical alignment. Appointments made for 75-minute session.

WELLNESS CENTERS

YOGA STUDIOS

Dragonfly Yoga

850 244 0184

downtown brooks st

UNITY IN FORT WALTON BEACH ft. walton beach

dragonflyyoga.com

1797 Hurlburt Rd, FWB 850-864-1232 • UnityInFWB.org

We welcome all interested in seeking an inner awareness of God. We promote love, joy, and peace through our thoughts, words, and deeds.

DRAGONFLY YOGA STUDIES Downtown Ft Walton Beach 850-244-0184 (MM16502) DragonFlyYoga.com Drop in.

UNITY OF PANAMA CITY

1764 Lisenby Ave, Panama City 850-769-7481 PanamaCityUnity@knology.net

Dragonfly Yoga

A professional yoga studio offering a serene environment for the study and practice of Hatha yoga. Certified instructors.

Owner/Director Laura Tryee, E-RYT 500. See ad, page 7.

850 244 0184

downtown brooks st

ft. walton beach

Sunshine Yoga dragonflyyoga.com

Committed to helping people find the way to their own understanding and experience of God and offering positive, practical resources for an abundant and meaningful life.

211-E Main Street, Destin, FL 32541 850-687-8603 SunshineYogaStudio.com

This cozy yoga studio located in the heart of Destin offers a variety of classes to suit the whole family.

Owner/Instructor Kim Mosby, RYT 200. See ad, page 21.

Water Emerald Coast Culligan

Serving Florida Panhandle from Pensacola to Panama City Call us at (888) 320-5531 www.emeraldcoastculligan.com Your complete resource for questions, concerns and water testing needs, treating water on the Gulf Coast for over 60 years. Providing soft, conditioned water to the highest quality drinking water.

See ad, page 11.

YOGA ELEMENTS, LLC

108 Carillon Market St, Panama City Beach 850-866-2199 Hello@YogaElements108.com YogaElements108.com

Yoga offered: mat (earth), Standup Paddleboard & in pool (water) and Aerial (air). Dawn Brooks, RN, RYT-500, LauraLynn Jansen, MHEd., CPCC, RYT.

Whether it’s the best of times or

the worst of times, it’s the only time we’ve got. ~Art Buchwald

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unique