February 2012 - Natural Awakenings

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Burnout’s Benefits

FREE

Joan Borysenko Shares Surprising Insights

Boost Your Brain Power Ways to Keep Your Mind Young

Improve Your Snooze Natural Sleep Aids that Work

WABI SABI LOVE Embrace the Imperfections

February 2012 | North Texas Edition | NA-NTX.com

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contents 12

5 newsbriefs 10 communitybrief 11 healthbriefs 15 globalbriefs 18 ecotip

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.

20 EXERCISE TO

BEAT THE BLUES

Staying Active Lifts Our Spirits

by Priscilla Goudreau-Santos

spotlight

22 IMPROVE YOUR

20 fitbody

Sleep Aids versus Sleep Sappers

22 conscious

24 A BRAIN-BUILDING

19 community

eating 15 34 inspiration 37 calendar 43 classifieds 34 44 resourceguide

advertising & submissions

SNOOZE

BLUEPRINT

How to Keep the Mind Young and Memory Sharp

by Lisa Marshall

27 HOW A BRAIN GROWS

Five Ways to Aid Development

by Lisa Marshall

29 THE BENEFITS

22

OF BURNOUT

how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 469-633-9549 or email publisher@NA-NTX.com. Deadline for ads: noon on the 9th of the month.

An Oxymoron? Not According to Psychologist Joan Borysenko

Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: publisher@NA-NTX.com. Deadline for editorial: feature articles are due by the 5th of the month, news briefs and health briefs are due by noon on the 9th.

Healthy, Practical Tips for People and the Planet

calendar submissions Submit calendar events online at NA-NTX.com within the advertising section.

Deadline for calendar: noon on the 9th 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 469-633-9549. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

NA-NTX.com

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by Judith Fertig

by Linda Sechrist

30 EAT PLASTIC-FREE

by Brita Belli

32 HOW CAN WE

ALL GET ALONG?

24

Resolving Conflict Benefits Mind and Body

by Lisa Shumate

34 WABI SABI LOVE

Embracing Imperfections in Relationships

by Arielle Ford

36 PINT-SIZED PETS

Smaller Pets Have Big Potential

by Randy Kambic

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letterfrompublisher

contact us Publisher Jim Davis Co-Publisher & Sales Martee Davis Editorial Theresa Archer Elizabeth Daniels Robert Dean Linda Sechrist Design & Production C. Michele Rose Stephen Blancett Distribution Preston Davis Printer Digital Graphics, OK City Multi-Market Advertising 469-633-9549 Franchise Sales John Voell 239-530-1377 3245 Main St., Ste 235 - Mailcode 134 Frisco, TX 75034 Phone: 469-633-9549 Fax: 888-442-6501 publisher@NA-NTX.com NA-NTX.com © 2012 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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All right, I’ll admit it. I’m not the best morning person.

I mean, not only am I not a great morning-person but sometimes I can even roll out on the wrong side of the bed and be a little cranky. I honestly don’t know why this is since I’ve been surrounded by early risers; first my folks and now my wife and son who all enjoy the early morning hours. Even my previous career required me to be up early and “on stage” whether in-town or traveling, which was never an issue for me.

Here’s the rub; I know better. I fully understand it’s a mind-set and something I can choose to control. It’s not like I’m rolling out of bed in the middle of a destitute environment, so how hard can it be when I know Good morning! it’s a choice and I know the solution? I wonder if any of it could also be due to all the junk I partook of weekend-after-weekend of the playoffs, or the overwhelming challenge of getting back into an exercise routine after slacking off through the holidays and staying up late.

As wonderful as our bodies and brains are, a couple of our articles this month remind us that our bodies and brains can quickly become vulnerable to mood swings and complications if we don’t provide them with a healthy intake of natural fuel and rest. Our article, Improve Your Snooze speaks to how a lack of sleep can affect the immune system, and what we eat and drink can have a profound effect on our sleep. In The Benefits of Burnout, renowned expert Joan Borysenko talks about how devastating stress can be in zapping our energy and damaging our health both physically and mentally. Her words of advice guide us to the realization that health and happiness is a state of mind that we can control by changing our attitude and practicing new behaviors as to how we react to situations.

Our article Wabi Sabi Love drives home the point that conscious choices and honest awareness of past habits can form new habits, triggering new reactions that can catapult us through the challenges of life at a higher level of consciousness and gratitude. By understanding and appreciating the imperfections in our self and others, we can reach a better state of happiness and personal growth.

Perhaps some of the articles will help or resonate with you. Being grateful and content with what is going on in life, understanding we have the ability to accept or change the occurrences in our life and appreciating the good and the bad of those situations can eventually bring us to a balanced and happy state of mind. I’m certainly not perfect, nor expect you are either, but I am trying to get to that state of balance, and isn’t that really where we all strive to be?

A supervisor in my past life of corporate had this saying, “Nobody ever wakes up and says, ‘Let’s have a bad day today.’” You would think between my understanding and acknowledgement of how we can proactively influence outcomes, and with his motto words burned into my memory, that I would wake up every morning with a big smile and happy attitude, wouldn’t you? Hopefully tomorrow I’ll wake up and surprise everyone by choosing a happier mood!

Stay healthy, happy and young at heart,

newsbriefs Discussion Group for Holistic Parents

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rs. Christy Porterfield and Jennifer Taylor, of HealthWorks: A Creating Wellness Center, in Plano, are launching a quarterly get-together group for parents with kids of all ages that want to learn how to keep kids healthy in today’s world. Connecting with like-minded families, the Pathways Connection workshop will be held in a relaxed, discussion centered atmosphere.

Each group will use discussion points from the popular parenting magazine, Pathways to Family Wellness. Pathways Connection workshops begin February 22 and will meet once a quarter, April 4, July 18 and October 17, at HealthWorks Wellness Center.

Topics include eating the right foods during pregnancy to positively affect children’s brain development, how to read ingredient labels to find dangerous but common food additives, how to pack nutritious lunches for picky eaters and teens and how to find or make probiotic rich foods like raw milk, homemade sauerkraut or yogurt to supercharge children’s immune system and reduce the risk of developing ADD, autism or allergies. The group is also a source of community referrals for holistically minded health care practitioners.

“Kids don’t come with an instruction booklet, but what you do and don’t know about nutrition, environmental chemicals and additives and how your child’s body works can have a lasting effect on their health,” says Dr. Porterfield. “This new workshop group is an important addition to our educational workshop schedule, and we’re looking forward to getting to know other holistic parents in our community.”

Location: 2317 Coit Rd. (Park and Coit), Ste. B, Plano. For more information, call 972-612-1800 or visit HealthWorksTX.com. See ad, page 16.

Fight For Air Climb at Renaissance Tower

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undreds of people will huff and puff their way to the top of the Renaissance Tower, in Dallas, February 18, for the American Lung Association (ALA) annual fundraiser. The Fight for Air Climb is a vertical race to climb 53 floors of stairs in honor or in memory of someone with lung disease, and in support of the ALA.

Check-in begins at 7 a.m., followed by the race at 8 a.m., with start times in 10-second intervals.

Participants are professionally timed and ranked by timing chips. Climbers’ bibs and timing chips will be distributed at packet pick-up or in the Renaissance Tower the morning of the race.

Climbers will receive an official T-shirt, goodie bag and refreshments. Participants can raise funds and climb as an individual or as part of a team. Fundraising incentives and awards will be given to the fastest male and female climbers by age group, fastest team, largest team and top fundraising team. Separate awards will be given to firefighters and police officers.

The registration fee is $25, and participants must be registered and have a minimum of $100 in fundraising by February 18 to be officially entered into the race.

Water stations will be strategically placed in the stairwells during the event to provide hydration on the climb to the 53rd floor. Security and medical staff will be available to assist anyone unable to complete the climb.

Location: 1201 Elm St., Dallas. For more information, call 214-631-5864 ext. 202, or visit FightForAirClimb.org. natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Kurt Thomas Hosts Gymnastics Invitational

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Lake Texoma Wilderness Run is Oldest in State

he ninth annual Kurt Thomas Gymnastics Invitational will be held from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., February 11 and 12, at the Frisco Conference Center, in Frisco. Attracting some of the country’s best gymnasts from clubs all over the nation, athletes go head-to-head, highlighting their skills and talent.

The event offers high-energy competition, an exciting array of skill and talent for gymnastic enthusiasts and a chance to get up close to highly ranked gymnasts from all around the country.

Olympian Kurt Thomas is happy to be setting the highest standards for invitational meets across the country. “We are proud to bring a gymnastics event of this caliber to Frisco,” says the three-time world champion. “Two sets of equipment, allowing for two separate series of events to run simultaneously, 600-plus athletes showcasing their talents and attempting to qualify for finals, prizes and exciting gymnastics, offer an unforgettable experience for gymnasts and spectators alike.”

Food and beverage facilities are available, as well as vendor booths offering gymnastic garments and accessories.

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Tickets are $15/adults; $10/children 12 and under; free/3 and under. Location: 7601 Gaylord Pkwy., Frisco. For more info, call 214-872-4646 or visit KTInvitational.com. See ad, page 11.

Location: Cross Timbers Trails, Juniper Point Park West Campground, Lake Texoma. For more information, visit Cross TimbersTrailRuns.com.

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s the oldest trail run in Texas celebrates its 31st anniversary, February 18, the Cross Timbers Trail Run offers a 50-mile run or relay, marathon, halfmarathon and 5-mile run on mostly narrow, hilly trails, with some rocky and hazardous areas that go out and back along the shores of Lake Texoma, in North Texas.

The races begin with the monster run and relay 50-miler at 6:30 a.m., followed by the marathon at 7 a.m., continuing with the half-marathon and 5-mile at 7:30 a.m. Time cut-offs are in place for the 50-mile race and can be reviewed online. The start and finish line is located at Juniper Point Park West Campground.

Aid stations will supply water, food and refreshments.

Packet pick-up is at the campground from 5 to 8 p.m., February 17, or 30 minutes prior to the race. Camping sites and lodging are available in the area.

A pre-and-post-race meal is free to each entrant and one guest at Juniper Point Park West. Additional meals can be purchased for $5 per person. Awards are provided to all finishers and race shirts will be given to entrants while supplies last.

Harps & Fiddles at Irish Festival

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he 30th annual North Texas Irish Festival (NTIF) will be held from 6 to 11 p.m., March 2, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., March 3 and from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., March 4, at Fair Park, in Dallas. What began as a small group of like-minded musicians getting together for musical entertainment and dance has evolved into an event recognized as the largest Celtic event in the Southwest and one of the premier events for true Irish and Celtic performers.

The theme of this year’s threeday celebration, Harps & Fiddles, represents the two instruments that best typify the music of Ireland. Harps are prominent in Welsh, Breton, Irish, Scottish and other Celtic cultures within the music world and as a social and political symbol. The medieval fiddle represents Irish regional traditions from Donegal, Sligo, Sliabh Luachra and Clare.

A variety of entertainment includes 10 stages of live entertainment, including headline musicians, local and regional musicians, storytellers and folk dancers. A culinary stage, educational workshops, cultural presentations, booths of Celtic accessories, food and beverage vendors and the Scottish Village fulfill the Celtic experience. NTIF is a pet-friendly event, with possible Irish wolfhound sightings.

The question is not whether we will die, but how we will live. ~Joan Borysenko

Free entry before 7 p.m., March. 2.

Discount tickets available online or at Tom Thumb stores. Children 11 and under free. Location: 1200 S. 2nd Ave., Fair Park, Dallas. For more information, visit ntif.org. natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Running For Chocolate in Fair Park

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he Hot Chocolate 15k and 5k race, sponsored by Ghirardelli Chocolate, is coming February 11 to Fair Park, in Dallas. Ghirardelli, in coordination with the RAM Racing Series, is partnering with the Ronald McDonald House Charities to raise money for their “home-away-from-home” program, helping families stay close to their hospitalized child at little or no cost.

The races will be an officially timed event and runners must maintain a 15-minute-per-mile pace or better. Official results will be posted online within 24 hours. Seeded starts and corrals for both the 5k and 15k are available for those who qualify. The 5k race starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 15k at 7:45 a.m. Race packets will be distributed at the Hot Chocolate Runner Expo at the Fair Park Automotive Building, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., February 9 and 10. No race day packet pick-up is available.

Following the event, runners, walkers and chocolate lovers are invited to attend a post-race party featuring hot chocolate, fondue, chocolate treats, live entertainment and an awards ceremony. Awards will be given to the top three overall male and female finishers and the top three finishers in each age group.

Race day parking is free at Fair Park before 8:30 a.m., $10 after. Fair Park is accessible via the DART Green Line. Location: Fair Park Automotive Building, 1010 First Ave., Dallas. For more information, visit HotChocolate15k.com/Dallas.

Modular Format Yoga Teaching Program

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oga Training Skills (YTS) teacher-training certification is being offered through Sunstone Yoga. YTS is an educational outreach and 200-hour teacher-training program divided into 12 individual workshops that meets Yoga Alliance requirements. The program is formatted into weekend workshops, making it convenient and accessible for interested individuals to learn yoga-teaching skills. The program is designed for a variety of individuals, including yoga students, teachers, fitness and healthcare professionals.

By devoting one weekend per month, individuals may complete the 200-hour training program in one year. Each workshop offers valuable yoga education and skills that can be applied right away. Workshops are designed to be engaging and interactive and are instructed by master teachers. Individuals can choose their own pace, with no time limit or obligation to complete the entire program.

The first module, Yoga Skills 1, will be offered in February, at Sunstone Yoga Academy, in Addison. Workshop and program details are available online. Location: 4540 Beltway Dr., Addison. For more information, call 214-764-2119, ext 3, or visit YogaTrainingSkills.com. See ad, page 7.

News to share?

Email details to: publisher@NA-NTX.com Submittal deadline is noon on the 9th of the month.

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Cooking God’s Way: A Healthier Natural Approach

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ecognizing that few health programs teach how to properly prepare and cook natural healthy foods, combining the understanding of holistic nutrition, Cooking God’s Way has begun offering healthy cooking classes and nutritional consulting in Plano.

A hands-on approach to healthy living techniques, Cooking God’s Way teaches how to make noticeable health change permanent using foods that taste great and are packed with life.

“Our ancestors had an edge not only in understanding how natural foods related to health and wellness, but how to prepare meals to maximize those benefits,” says Jeff Pearce, co-founder of Cooking God’s Way. “Texas pioneers depended on their health daily in the forming of our great state, and today we need that same advantage in our daily lives.”

Utilizing food as a lifestyle, Cooking God’s Way helps people make real changes in their health that diets alone never accomplish. In Live Foods classes, they teach time-tested methods of food preparation that have been lost over the generations, including the secrets of making homemade yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut and the goodness of sourdough baking. Classes are kept to a group size that allows individual questions to be answered so that true learning can take place.

In addition to the healthy cooking classes, Cooking God’s Way offers free monthly workshops on topics including natural weight loss, gluten issues, sugar and detoxification. Classes and holistic nutritional consulting are also offered in a one-on-one environment.

Location: 2317 Coit Rd., Ste. B, Plano.

For more info, call 972-379-7851 or visit CookingGodsWay.com for recipes and calendar. See ad, page 7.

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he world’s largest Rattlesnake Roundup is coiled to strike from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., March 9 and 10, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 11, at the Nolan County Coliseum, in Sweetwater. Area farmers and ranchers conceived the roundup in 1958 in an attempt to eliminate the abundant rattlers that were plaguing livestock, and the event has grown to become the largest roundup in the world, netting more than 123 tons of western diamondback rattlesnakes to date.

Sponsored by the Sweetwater Jaycees as a major fundraiser, benefiting organizations that include the Special Olympics, TriCounty Children’s Advocacy, American Red Cross, the Boy and Girl Scouts, Texas Adopt-a-Highway and Thanksgiving Day feast for the homeless, this unique event draws 30,000 visitors annually from all 50 states, North and South America, Europe and Asia.

As much an educational experience as fundraiser, attendees can learn about rattlesnakes and their habitat at the rattlesnake exhibit, get up-close views, watch snake handlers and even register for guided snake hunts. A variety of activities include an inside and outside flea market, carnival, vendor booths of souvenirs and curios, a rattlesnake cook-off, food and beverage vendors, a rattlesnake-eating contest and a gun, knife and coin show.

Photo: Ralph Arvesen

Sweetwater Holds 54th Annual Rattlesnake Roundup

Tickets: $7/adults; $4/children 10 and under. Location: 1699 Cypress St., Sweetwater. For more info, visit RattlesnakeRoundup.net.

Seeds of Inspiration at Home & Garden Show

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he 32nd annual Fort Worth Home & Garden Show will be held from 2 to 8 p.m., February 24, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., February 25 and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., February 26, at the Fort Worth Convention Center, in Fort Worth. The show offers the opportunity to meet more than 400 experts in home, gardening, remodeling and home décor, along with learning about green energy products and vacation and leisure services.

Drawing inspiration from the latest trends and ideas for gardening, landscaping, pools and spas, home remodeling and new construction, the show will feature thousands of square feet of exhibits. Attendees can visit with company representatives and home improvement experts that will help them discover the best way to move their home and garden projects forward.

From backyard challenges to bathroom suites, the educational seminars and how-to demonstrations offer tips and tricks designed to take the worry out of home improvement projects.

Tickets are $10/adults; $8.50/seniors; free/14 and under. Discount coupons are available online. Location: 1201 Houston St., Fort Worth. For more info, visit TexasHomeAndGarden.com. natural awakenings

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communitybrief

Denton Senior Center

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he Denton Senior Center (DSC) is full of caring folks fifty years of age or older, looking for new friends with whom to share fun activities. Whether looking for a lively day of exercise and games or a quiet day in the library, options at DSC are abundant and constantly being added to based on member requests.

An array of activities include educational classes, day trips, board games, cards and tournaments in dominoes, chair volleyball, billiards, and shuffleboard. Thursday evenings are open game night. New games are taught and everyone that can, brings a covered dish to enjoy with others for a potluck dinner.

If board games and billiards don’t move fast enough for you, dance classes including line-dance, ballroom, tap and salsa are taught by experienced

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instructors. Live music and dancing are offered the second and forth Friday nights of the month in a non-drinking, non-smoking environment. Dance partners are available for single attendees.

Staying fit at DSC is easy with options like Stretch-N-Tone chair exercises, Tai Chi and Seniorcize, a program of movements and stretching.

The fitness center offers a large variety

of equipment, and the Silver Sneakers program offers several stretch and yoga style classes. Fee-based programs are available with monthly, quarterly and yearly memberships.

Open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Membership is $5/yr to Denton homeowners and $10/yr for nonresidents.

Meals-on-Wheels provides lunch Monday through Friday for a small donation.

Location: 509 N. Bell Ave., Denton. For more information, call 940-349-8720 or visit CityofDenton.com for a complete list of services.

healthbriefs Alcohol Impairs Recovery from Illness

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esearchers from the University of Massachusetts Medical School that collected blood from volunteers to study how drinking alcohol affects monocytes, the white blood cells that are part of the immune system, made an unwelcome discovery. Alcohol can worsen the effects of disease and lengthen the recovery period following trauma, injury or burns. It both impairs the body’s antiviral immune response, especially in the liver, and increases inflammation, so think twice before downing another hot toddy.

Source: BioMed Central

Potassium Protects the Heart

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ccording to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death and a major contributor to disability in this country. A recent study sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that in addition to cutting dietary sodium to improve heart health, Americans should increase consumption of a key mineral found in many fruits and vegetables: potassium.

The study of more than 12,000 adults reported that people eating a diet high in sodium and low in potassium have a 50 percent increased risk of death from any disease than average and about twice the risk of death from heart attacks. Sodium, a key component of salt, raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease. Potassium has been found to offset sodium’s impact on blood pressure.

Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend an adult daily potassium intake of 4,700 milligrams and a maximum sodium intake of 2,300 milligrams (about a teaspoon of salt); or less than 1,500 milligrams for people age 51 and older, African-Americans or those that suffer from hypertension, diabetes or chronic kidney disease.

The CDC reveals that the average American adult consumes 3,400 milligrams of sodium a day, about 80 percent from processed or restaurant foods. To achieve a healthier sodium-potassium ratio, the CDC recommends a diet that emphasizes fresh, unprocessed foods and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Foods high in potassium include sweet and white potatoes, spinach, tomatoes and bananas, as well as orange and prune juice, dates, plain yogurt and fish.

readertip Water Saving Tip Fill an empty 1-liter or 2-liter soda bottle with water and a little sand for weight. Flush your toilet and as the tank starts to fill, place the bottle (depending which size fits) in the back of the toilet tank away from moving parts. The filled bottle will displace up to 2-liters of water per flush. It’s a low cost way to make your toilet more water efficient.

Submitted by J. Murphy of Denton natural awakenings

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healthbriefs

Meditation Boosts Brain Power

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niversity of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) researchers first discovered that specific regions in the brains of long-term meditators were larger and contained more gray matter than those of a non-meditating control group; that was in 2009. Now, a follow-up study by the UCLA Laboratory of Neuro Imaging suggests people that meditate regularly also display stronger neuronal connections between brain regions and less age-related atrophy (shrinkage) in all areas of the brain.

The study comprised 27 active meditation practitioners (average age 52) and 27 control subjects, matched by age and sex. The number of years of meditation ranged from five to 46 and included various styles.

Using a type of brain imaging known as diffusion tensor imaging, or DTI—a new imaging mode that provides insights into the structural connectivity of the brain—the researchers found that long-term meditators have white matter fibers that are either more numerous, more dense or more insulated, throughout the brain. Although such tissue tends to decline with age, the study suggests that it can be preserved through active meditation practices.

Researcher Eileen Luders remarks, “If practiced regularly and over years, meditation may slow down aging-related brain atrophy, perhaps by positively affecting the immune system. Meditation appears to be a powerful mental exercise with the potential to change the physical structure of the brain.”

Vitamin C Helps Us See

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cientists at Oregon Health & Science University recently identified yet another benefit provided by vitamin C. In a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, coauthor and senior scientist Henrique von Gersdorff, Ph.D., says nerve cells in the eye require C to stay healthy—the vitamin bathes the cells of the retina and contributes to their proper functioning.

Does Yawning Cool the Brain?

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hen we feel the urge to yawn in cooler weather, we should succumb—it might do us good. New research suggests that beyond signaling fatigue or boredom, yawning might be a physical reaction to cool an “overheated” brain.

A study at Princeton University is the first to show that the frequency of yawning varies with the season and that people are less likely to yawn when the heat outdoors exceeds body temperature. The research monitored 160 people, 80 per season, during winter and summer in Tucson, Arizona. According to the researchers’ theory, it is possible that yawning in cooler temperatures works to cool the brain, while yawning in warmer conditions appears to provide no similar relief.

Research associate Andrew Gallup remarks, “The applications of this research are intriguing… for better understanding diseases and conditions such as multiple sclerosis or epilepsy, which are accompanied by frequent yawning and thermoregulatory dysfunction.” Excessive yawning may prove a helpful diagnostic tool.

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Probiotics Help Prevent Eczema

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study by researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology shows that the incidence of eczema in children of mothers that drank milk fortified with a probiotic supplement during pregnancy and while breastfeeding was about half that experienced otherwise.

Source: British Journal of Dermatology

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healthbriefs

Regular Bedtimes Make Kids Smarter

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ccording to research presented at the 24th annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, children that get adequate sleep score higher on a range of developmental assessments. The researchers emphasized that having a regular bedtime was the most consistent predictor of positive developmental outcomes at 4 years of age.

Scores for receptive and expressive language skills, awareness of soundword structure, literacy and early math abilities were higher in children whose parents maintained rules about going to bed at a prescribed time. Having an earlier bedtime further supported higher scores for most developmental measures.

The study involved a nationally representative sample of approximately 8,000 children that completed a direct assessment at 4 years of age. They were part of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Birth Cohort.

Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine

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Seaweed Loves the Heart

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ome relish seaweed, while others eye it with culinary suspicion. Now an article in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reports that many scientists have identified seaweed as a rich, potential source of heart-healthy food ingredients. A review of nearly 100 studies shows that seaweed and other microalgae could rival milk products as sources of important bioactive peptides.

Maria Hayes, Ph.D., and her colleagues at the Teagasc Food Research Centre, in Dublin, Ireland, concluded that certain seaweed proteins work just like the bioactive peptides in milk products to reduce blood pressure, almost like angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drugs. Thus, they could be used as ingredients in functional foods like soups and health beverages to provide nutrition, while offering medicinal effects in treating or preventing heart disease.

Seaweeds are a neglected alternative source of these bioactive peptides in this country, the researchers state, noting its popularity in other cultures.

Varieties of seaweed are known as nori in Japan, dulse in coastal parts of Europe and limu palahalaha in native Hawaiian cuisine.

In addition, notes Hayes, “Seaweeds are a known source of essential fatty acids, which are thought to reduce thrombosis and atherosclerosis—factors important in the reduction of the risk of heart disease.”

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

Big Book

Encyclopedia of Life Update The second edition of the Smithsonian Institution’s free, online collaborative Encyclopedia of Life (EOL) is now easier to use. It also has been vastly expanded, offering information on more than one-third of all known species on Earth, including hundreds of thousands of images and videos.

With the updated format, users can easily find species of interest; create personal collections of photos and information; find or upload pictures, videos and sounds; and share comments, questions and expertise with users worldwide that share similar interests.

EOL.org seeks to become a microscope in reverse, helping users to discern large-scale patterns. By aggregating for analysis information on Earth’s estimated 1.9 million known species, scientists say EOL could, for example, help map vectors of human disease; reveal mysteries behind longevity; suggest substitute plant pollinators for a swelling list of places where honeybees no longer provide the function; and foster strategies to slow the spread of invasive species.

All EOL information is available for reuse and is licensed under Creative Commons and other Open Access free licenses.

Vanishing Species

Counting our Natural Blessings A study by Canada’s Dalhousie University postulates that as many as 86 percent of Earth’s species are still unknown, and millions of organisms will remain undiscovered as extinctions accelerate worldwide at 10 to 100 times their natural rate.

If, as the study’s co-author Boris Worm suggests, our planet is home to 8.7 million species, it means scientists have cataloged fewer than 15 percent of species now alive. Many unknown organisms will wink out of existence before they can even be recorded.

Although the catalog of mammals and birds may be nearly complete, inventories of other classes of life are far behind. Only 7 percent of the predicted number of fungi and fewer than 10 percent of all ocean life forms have been identified.

Categorizing a new organism is more complicated than discovering one. “It’s a long process,” Worm explains. “Most scientists will describe dozens of species in their lifetime, if they’re really lucky. What’s been discovered so far are those things that are easy to find, that are conspicuous, that are relatively large. There is an age of discovery ahead of us when we could find out so much more of what lives with us on this planet.”

Source: National Geographic

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globalbriefs

Blogging News

Teens See More Kindness than Cruelty Online As American teens navigate the new world of digital citizenship, a new study has found that 69 percent say their peers are mostly being kind to one another on social networking sites. Still, 12 percent say they witness meanness frequently, 29 percent sometimes and 47 percent only once in a while; 15 percent report that they have personally been the targets of mean or cruel behavior online.

The findings are based on focus groups and a national survey of youths ages 12 to 17 and their parents, conducted by the Pew Research Center Internet & American Life Project.

Find the full report at Tinyurl.com/7kl3cuj.

Natural Wonders Virgin Forests are Irreplaceable

Analysis by an international team of researchers of more than 100 studies comparing wildlife in forests that had been modified with those that had not confirms the crucial role that virgin forests play in conserving the natural world. The researchers conclude in the journal Nature that, “When it comes to maintaining tropical biodiversity, there is no substitute for primary forests.”

The worldwide meta-study found that most species, notably birds, do much better in virgin tracts than in areas that have been cleared for agriculture, plantations or agro-forestry or selectively logged for certain types of trees. In all but the latter, the overall impact on biodiversity was marked. In all cases, the variety of plants and animals was depleted more severely than the sheer number of organisms present.

Surprisingly, total mammal populations may do better under some kinds of forest modification, although this may be because opportunistic animals such as rats multiply even as the diversity of mammals drops. Birds, insects and plants experience an unequivocal loss.

The study addresses how best to specifically preserve nature across the tropics, where most human population growth and rapid development is occurring. It compares the effects of “land-sharing”, where farming and other development enables wildlife to share the same space, and “land-sparing”, which provides entitlement areas to wildlife while humans use other segments as intensely as they like.

Source: BBC News

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Low Tech

Silicon Valley School Eschews Computers

Crucial Shareware Open Hardware Addresses Environmental Problems

The Waldorf School of the Peninsula, in Los Altos, California, is one of 160 Waldorf schools in the country that subscribe to a teaching philosophy focused on physical activity and learning through creative, hands-on tasks.

The New York Times reports that the chief technology officer of eBay sends his children to this nine-classroom institution, as do employees of Silicon Valley giants like Google, Apple, Yahoo and Hewlett-Packard.

Yet, the school’s main teaching tools are anything but hightech, comprising pen and paper, knitting needles and occasionally, mud. No computers or screens of any kind are allowed in the classroom, and the school frowns on their use at home.

Educators that endorse this approach say computers inhibit creative thinking, movement, human interaction and attention spans. Alan Eagle, a communications executive at Google, whose daughter attends the school, says, “The idea that an app on an iPad can better teach my kids to read or do arithmetic, that’s ridiculous.”

The concept of open hardware, like open software, aims to freely share all the necessary knowledge for building usable electronic devices, and participants range from innovative students to the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN).

Protei, a worldwide collective of technology students, has designed an autonomous, mini-sailboat drone to ply the ocean and mop up oil spills, gather information on marine life in crisis, and clean up floating plastic trash. The Protei boats were originally designed to respond to the BP 2010 Gulf oil spill crisis. Trailing oil-absorbing booms, the drones can sail even in a storm to help with cleanup, unlike conventional ships concerned with crew safety.

Similarly, collaborating volunteers in Japan responded to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant 2011 meltdown by building stationary and mobile radiation monitors.

Source: Scientific American

Source: The New York Times

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ecotip

Green Laundry List

Use Cold Water and Eco-Wise Detergents Mom may have said that hot water washes best, but don’t give cold-water detergents the cold shoulder—today’s new products deliver clean laundry that’s easy on the pocketbook and the planet.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, an average American family annually washes nearly 400 loads of laundry. Because heating the water accounts for 90 percent of the energy used by a washing machine, using only hot or warm water in a top-loading electric washer annually produces an average 2,407 pounds of CO2 pollution—equivalent to two cross-country flights.

Many conventional cold-water detergents still contain toxic chemicals that when drained, end up in waterways, creating a host of environmental woes and exposing wildlife to endocrine disruptors. For both clean and green clothes, buy biodegradable laundry detergents made with plant oils and other natural ingredients that are free of phosphates, bleach and surfactants such as petroleum-based nonylphenol ethoxylates, or NPE. Kinder to the planet, greener choices are also gentler on the skin.

Consumers concerned about killing bacteria, dust mites and other allergens may be tempted to turn on the hot water tap for sheets, linens and underwear, but Philip Tierno, Jr., Ph.D., a professor of microbiology and pathology at the New York University School of Medicine, says that most of the hot water people use is not hot enough anyway. “You need water that’s between 140 and 150 degrees to kill germs,” he advises. Tierno, author of The Secret Life of Germs, notes that the sun is one of nature’s most efficient germ killers, so letting clothes dry outdoors is a good eco-option. “The ultraviolet radiation kills germs,” he advises, “and it’s just as effective as bleach.”

Natural disinfectants that can be added during rinsing include white vinegar (one-half cup per load); grapefruit seed extract (one teaspoon); tea tree oil (two teaspoons); and lavender or peppermint essential oil (a few drops), which also imparts a fresh fragrance.

Find more tips on the Sierra Club’s website at Tinyurl.com/3kh2dpf.

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communityspotlight Paperhound.com ~ A Piece of History

by Robert Dean

J

udy Edwards always had a love many Biblical, from the 1550s to the of geography. As a young girl, she 1850s. A statement of authenticity is even kept an atlas near the televiprovided with each antique map or print sion, so she could look up places that is purchased. If the customer isn’t that were mentioned in the shows. pleased with their items, Paperhound.

However, it wasn’t until she and her com will refund their purchase price husband, Walt, were vacationing in with no questions asked. “We want to Bermuda that this love developed into make sure every customer is as pleased something much more—a passion for with their purchase as we were when we collecting antique maps and prints. originally purchased the piece ourselves”

“We were visiting an antique store says Walt. and came across an antique map,” she Paperhound.com offers something explains. “We were struck by the detail for everyone. “Maps and prints make a and the decorative nature and thought wonderful and unique gift. The associa1650 Jansson Map of S. America, it would make a unique souvenir. At the tions you can find between these beautiful Africa and Atlantic time, we didn’t realize its significance.” images and recipients’ hobbies, interests,

Though the couple had never collected anything before, family history, favorite travel destinations or religious affiliathey found themselves purchasing more maps during subsetion are almost endless,” notes Judy. quent travels. “In Europe, especially, we would turn a corner Over the years, working with customers in their homes and see a map store or an independent bookstore that carried and at shows, the Edwards realized that not everyone can afthese beautiful pieces,” explains Judy. “It was almost as if we ford originals—and not everyone cares whether the image is were being led. Before long, we were hooked.” original or not—spurring the Edward’s decision to pass along

Their passion continued to grow, and they began seekthe beauty and history of what they are doing by offering ing out dealers and collecting originals, depicting all sorts of high-quality digital reproductions. “When we first thought historical places and events. They were constantly amazed at about selling, our intention was to offer only original antique the detail and decorative nature of what they found—the fine items,” says Walt. “However, due to customer requests, we lines of the engraving itself, the minute details included in the have realized and believe that everyone deserves a chance to images and the fact that these images were drawn and then be exposed to and enjoy this amazing art.” carved by hand (in reverse) onto plates that were then inked

They currently have more than 2,300 orginial and 600 and pressed to paper. The maps, for instance, told so much high-quality digitally reproduced items available for sale. more than location or how to get somewhere. They told a “Due to the vast number of items we offer, customers at story through pictures. “You realize that in some cases, this is shows were constantly asking us to email them images of how people got their information,” she says. “It’s a wonderful products we had no room to show. Transition into an epart of history.” commerce-based business was a natural, and we are work Some 15 years after they purchased their first map, the ing diligently to load new items as quickly as we can, so Edwards are now sharing their knowledge—and folks have access to our complete inventory,” Cartouche of 1654 Blaeu says Judy. their treasures—with others. They have learned of Scotland Lothian a lot along their journey—including how to The Edwards say most of their contempoRegion Map identify an item’s markings of color, cartouche, raries in the antique map and print business plate lines, paper and subject content to verify don’t yet offer high-quality digital reproducthat a piece is an original. Walt says that betions. Their hope is that people that come to cause every piece is unique in its own way, if Paperhound.com for a map or print, or receive the product looks perfect, it’s probably a reproone as a gift, will be inspired to learn about duction. “This business is similar to selling art; the original images or cartographers and peryou need to do your research and go through haps become more enthusiastic about history, a legitimate dealer if you are looking for an geography and the humanities, whether the original piece,” he notes. item is an original or not.

Through their company, Paperhound.com, For more info about Paperhound.com, call the Edwards are offering an online source for 469-777-8554 or visit Paperhound.com. See antique maps, including road maps, sea charts, ad, inside front cover. regional maps, world maps, and original prints, natural awakenings

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fitbody

Exercise to Beat the Blues

Staying Active Lifts Our Spirits

by Priscilla Goudreau-Santos

Depression affects about one in 10 adults each year and nearly twice as many women as men, according to the American Psychiatric Association.

Although exercise may feel like the last thing you want to do when you are feeling blue, it’s a sure way to climb out of the morass and achieve a brighter outlook, higher energy levels and good heart health.

“I

n winter months, people get sluggish in many ways, and the resulting buildup of toxins can make them feel achy. They often interpret their fatigue and tension as depression, but that’s not necessarily so,” says Carolyn Dean, a pioneering physician, naturopath, nutritionist and author, with 25 years of experience treating diet and health issues.

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“The best, most natural way to pull toxins out of the body is through movement,” she advises. Becoming active is a good way to both lift depression and promote overall health, including a healthy heart, one of the largest and most vital muscles in the body.

Getting off the couch often begins by identifying what you enjoy and will be most likely to continue doing. Set-

ting reasonable goals is important. If you haven’t exercised in awhile or feel guilty for taking time out of an already busy day, try starting with a five-minute workout, and then increase the duration as you get stronger and feel better.

Dean suggests that one good way to start is by walking and using a pedometer, or climbing stairs with a step-counter (10,000 steps a day is a reachable goal). You can make a game of competing against yourself.

Invite friends to walk with you or create your own walking club to help stay on track with a cardio-exercise routine. Walking your dog or borrowing a neighbor’s pooch for a stroll around the neighborhood is fun. Inject additional movement into daily routines via gardening, washing the car or playing with children.

Multiple Benefits Although the scientific links between exercise and reduced anxiety and depression aren’t entirely known, it is clear that working out can help anyone relax and feel better. The Mayo Clinic reports that exercise helps ease depression by releasing feel good brain chemicals in the body; reducing immune system chemicals; increasing body temperature; boosting self-confidence; taking thoughts off of worries; and promoting social interaction, thus equipping individuals to better cope with life’s ups and downs.

“Exercise is sometimes stigmatized as an activity that’s hot, sticky and not fun,” notes Jess Martin, a wellness coordinator with the nationwide network of Healthstat, Inc. clinics, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.

“We encourage our participants to instead think of exercise as fun. Running, lifting weights and other fitness activities certainly get your heart pumping, but so can less intense forms of exercise. While we encourage everyone to have 30-minute workouts, you can also benefit from shorter intervals, such as two 15-minute or even three 10-minute sessions a day.”

As Martin notes, people that work out with a buddy are more likely to be accountable to an exercise routine.

Strengthening healthy social bonds reduces stresses at the same time.

“When you don’t exercise, the muscles of the body and the heart atrophy, he says. The more you exercise, the lower the heart rate tends to become, and the more efficient the heart function.”

Daily Do “Daily exercise should be as much a part of your routine as meals,” counsels Dr. Gabriela Cora, vice-chair of the Council on Communications for the American Psychiatric Association, author, wellness and well-being coach and former researcher in mood and anxiety disorders at the National Institutes of Health. “This is even truer for busy people, because so many these days are sedentary; everyone needs to find a balance for any lack of energy flow.” She points out that while many tend to think of exercise as a hobby, it is really one of the four pillars of biological health—sleep, relaxation, nutrition and exercise.

Surround Yourself With People Who Inspire You

by Penny Rackley

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lthough yoga has gained a huge following in the U.S., its mysterious and sometimes intimidating cachet endures. As a life coach and longtime yoga practitioner, clients and friends frequently ask about my dedication to the practice through questions like, “Why do you go so often?”

Yoga’s health benefits are myriad and well documented. From improved blood pressure to balance, muscle toning and mental acuity, it’s a fantastic exercise for your body and your mind. But why I love and recommend yoga is because it is neither snooty nor exclusive. Yoga is a community; a tribe where everyone belongs.

In Tom Rath’s book, Wellbeing, he notes, “Having direct and frequent social contact with someone who has high well-being dramatically boosts your chances of being happy.” That’s precisely how I think of yoga and its benefits.

When we come together at yoga, no matter what size, fitness shape or background, we share in and amplify each other’s well-being. Just by being there and giving our best to restore our minds and bodies, we also encourage each other to thrive that day. Sometimes before and after class, we share bits of our lives with each other. We pray, meditate, set good intentions for each other and cheer one another on.

Try yoga with an open mind and you’ll get more than just exercise.

You’ll be inspired. Try it and you will feel it, too.

Penny Rackley is a certified life coach and speaker at Inspire Yoga Studio and School, in Highland Village. For more info call 972-505-9764 or visit InspireYogaStudio.com. See ad, page 46.

Note: Consult with a physician for advice about what exercise and level of intensity is best for you. If you exercise regularly, but anxiety or depression symptoms still interfere with daily life, follow up with a doctor or other qualified mental health provider.

Priscilla Goudreau-Santos is a freelance writer and owner of Priscilla Goudreau Public Relations and Marketing, in Jacksonville, FL. Connect at 904-371-7751. natural awakenings

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SUGGESTED SLEEP SUPPLEMENTS

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oth valerian and melatonin have good scientific evidence backing them up as natural sleep aids, advises Sharon Plank, an integrative medicine physician with the University of Pittsburgh Medical School’s Center for Integrative Medicine.

If the problem is falling asleep, the sedative effects of a valerian supplement can help. Because it has few adverse effects, it’s safe to try as a sleep aid, Plank says.

If the problem is disrupted sleep, melatonin can help, and comes in two forms—extended release and immediate release.

Plank notes, “If you tend to wake up in the middle of the night, you may want to take extended release before you go to bed. If you have trouble falling asleep, try immediate release.”

If the problem is waking too early or restless leg syndrome, the problem could be a mineral deficiency. Studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that copper, iron and magnesium deficiencies caused sleep issues with some subjects; the studies specify recommended daily supplementation of copper (2 mg), iron (10 to 15 mg) and magnesium (400 mg).

consciouseating

IMPROVE YOUR SNOOZE Sleep Aids versus Sleep Sappers

by Judith Fertig

C

an eating a whole-wheat peanut butter cracker or sipping tart cherry juice help us sleep? Either is certainly worth a try, because most of us aren’t getting enough shut-eye. According to the nonprofit National Sleep Foundation, 64 percent of America’s adults frequently experience sleep problems; nearly half wake up at least once during the night. This deficit of restorative rest can affect our health.

“Lack of sleep can affect the immune system,” says Dr. Timothy Morgenthaler, of the Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders Center and an officer of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

“Studies show that people that don’t get a good night’s sleep or don’t get enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as the common cold.”

A concept called sleep hygiene refers to good health practices that promote sleep. For example: Is the room dark or quiet enough? Is the mattress comfortable? Have we allowed sufficient time to wind down after daily activities to become relaxed? What we eat or drink also can have a profound effect on getting a good night’s rest.

Sleep Sappers Physicians, naturopaths and nutrition22

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ists generally agree that these key factors delay or disrupt sleep.

Food and drink. According to Jamie Corroon, a naturopathic physician with Seattle’s Bastyr University, eating or drinking too much during the day may make us less comfortable when settling down to sleep. Also, spicy foods may cause heartburn, which can lead to difficulty falling asleep and discomfort during the night.

Caffeine. “Caffeine’s stimulant effect peaks in about one hour, and then declines as the liver breaks it down. So, if you go to bed by 11 p.m., you’ll have to stop your caffeine intake by 2 or 3 p.m. to avoid insomnia,” advises bestselling author Joy Bauer, a registered dietitian and nutritionist in New York City. She also cautions about energy drinks that incorporate herbal caffeine that may include guarana seeds, kola nuts and yerba mate leaves.

Nightcaps. Although many people think of alcohol as a sedative, it actually disrupts sleep, according to experts at the National Sleep Foundation.

Sleep Aids What helps us sleep may be either a food’s chemical properties or the psychological and physical comfort we associate with a certain food or drink.

Sleep Restores & Renews the Body Options include some old reliables.

Walnuts and tart cherry juice.

Studies conducted by the University of Texas Health Science Center, in San Antonio, and published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that these two foods are great sources of melatonin, a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles. Tart cherry juice was found to be especially effective in reducing the time it took subjects to fall asleep.

Herbs. According to the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Maryland, in Baltimore, some herbs have a mild, sedative effect.

Three traditional herbs used for sleep are valerian, German chamomile and passionflower. The European practice of sipping a warm tisane, or herbal tea, made from these ingredients can be warming and soothing, preparing us to sleep. These herbs are also available as supplements.

Complex carbohydrates. “Enjoy a bedtime snack,” recommends Bauer, of about 200 calories or less; mainly complex carbohydrates, with a touch of protein, such as some banana with peanut butter, yogurt or a small amount of whole grain cereal with skim milk.

“By combining an ample dose of carbohydrates together with a small amount of protein—such as yogurt or turkey— containing the amino acid tryptophan, your brain produces serotonin, known as a calming hormone.”

A warm, milky drink. Research scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology concluded that the chemical properties of milk—mainly protein and tryptophan—were not enough to ensure a good night’s sleep (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition). However, sleep and wellness expert Anna de Vena, who writes for SleepWellFeelGreat.com, observes, “I love curling up with any kind of warm milky drink before bed, especially in the wintertime. There is a calming association with warm milk and sleep… from the time we were infants, when we drank milk and went to sleep.”

by Jennifer Engels, M.D. ew things have a greater consistent impact on one’s daily performance and well-being than a good night’s sleep. Hot chamomile tea, hypnotherapy, bedside candlelit reading, meditation, yoga stretches, a hot bath with lavender essential oils or just counting sheep can maximize your body’s rest and rejuvenation at night.

Parents have always stressed “getting a good night’s sleep” before a test or big performance to help us achieve our best mentally and physically the following day. This good advice is just as important in our adult lives. New research reveals that adequate sleep is directly related to our ability to avoid acute and chronic diseases. Everything from our ability to fight off the common cold to our risk for high blood pressure, coronary arterial disease, diabetes and chronic inflammation is greatly affected by our quality of sleep.

Children need 10 to 12 hours of sleep and adults need seven to nine hours of sleep. If you are getting less, you are at increased risk of disease and are probably not functioning at your optimal level in many aspects of your life.

Addressing your amount and quality of sleep is a great starting point toward achieving your goals in performance and long-term health. A primary goal should be to go to bed at a time that allows you to be synchronized with your own built-in circadian rhythm.

Subtle changes in your diet, exercise programs and sleeping environment can have significant impact on your quality of sleep; and thus optimize your energy during the day. Some classic sleep aids are beneficial, while others are actually detrimental. If you need help falling asleep, staying asleep, or maximizing your energy throughout the day, visit an integrative doctor to see what parts of your diet and lifestyle can be fine-tuned to optimize your sleep and get you functioning at your peak throughout the day.

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Jennifer Engels is a medical doctor in Plano, specializing in nutrition and integrative medicine, including sleep hygiene. For more information, call 972-567-8819 or visit TheWellnessRoom. net. See ad, page 21.

Judith Fertig celebrates healthy food at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com. natural awakenings

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The good news: Such fates are far from inevitable.

“People seem to expect that as soon as we start to need reading glasses, we should also expect some of these cognitive issues to arise, but it does not need to be that way,” says Naples, Florida-based Neurology Doctor David Perlmutter, co-author of Power up Your Brain. “You can absolutely do things early on in life and throughout your lifetime that work to maintain the bulk and function of the brain.”

Here’s how:

Stay lean. It may seem counterintuitive, but mounting evidence suggests that in order to grow a bigger brain, many of us should be eating less. “The key to the brain maintaining and even regenerating itself is the activation of a set of genes that code for a protein called brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF),”

A Brain-Building Blueprint How to Keep the Mind Young and Memory Sharp

by Lisa Marshall

“Have you seen my keys?” “Now, why did I come in here?” “Her name is on the tip of my tongue.” If you catch yourself uttering such phrases, listen up:

“M

emory generally starts to decline in our 30s, as the brain shrinks with age.

One of the first and most prominent signs is that ‘tip of the tongue’ phenomenon,” advises neuroscientist Sandra Aamodt, Ph.D., co-author of Welcome to Your Brain.

Studies show that the adult brain can shrink as much as one-half to 1 percent annually in midlife, as neurons in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus wither and the branches between them thin. Add hormonal changes, which can starve gray matter of nour24

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ishing estrogen and progesterone; less-than-stellar cardiovascular health, which tends to limit blood flow to the brain; and a gummy protein called amyloid plaque, which can hamper neuronal function; and cognitive decline may be exacerbated.

Already, one in five people older than 65 suffer from “mild cognitive impairment” (persistent memory problems severe enough to be noticeable by others). According to the Alzheimer’s Association, if we live to age 90, as many as half of us could ultimately be diagnosed with that disease.

explains Perlmutter. “BDNF is significantly enhanced in people that simply cut down their calorie consumption.”

Several animal and human studies support this conclusion. One 2009 study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, divided 50 men and women age 50 and older into three groups that slashed calorie intake by 20 percent, 30 percent and not at all. After three months, the groups that restricted their calories saw their verbal memory scores jump by more than 20 percent.

Perlmutter notes that just being overweight in the prime of life can promote excess inflammation and free radical production—two enemies of a healthy brain. A 2005 study of 10,000 men and women conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente found that people that were obese in their early 40s had a 74 percent increased

risk of developing dementia later in life.

“Just a 25 percent reduction in calories over one month’s time can have a profound effect on boosting memory,” Perlmutter notes.

Eat a brain-building diet. Aside from cutting calories, experts say it’s critical to load up on foods that boost neurogenesis (the development of new brain cells) and stall brain atrophy. Eating more fish (or omega-3 supplements), adding fruits and vegetables and cutting back on refined carbohydrates do just that, advises Dr. Christiane Northrup, obstetrician, gynecologist and author of Women’s Bodies Women’s Wisdom. “The brain is mostly made up of omega-3 fats, and many women, in particular, are lacking them in their diet,” she observes.

Perlmutter notes that supplementing one’s intake of omega-3 fatty acid DHA, present in fatty fish and marine algae, has been shown to switch on the genes that jumpstart BDNF production.

DHA is also anti-inflammatory and promotes healthy blood flow to the brain.

But people shouldn’t wait too long to load up on it.

One 2010 trial of 485 healthy adults with mild memory complaints found that those who took 900 milligrams per day of algae-based DHA supplements for six months made significantly fewer errors on memory tests than they had at the study’s onset.

Another study by the National Institute on Aging, however, found that DHA supplementation had little impact on patients once severe dementia had set in. So, sooner is better.

Healthy fats aside, dark-colored fruits such as blackberries, blueberries and plums are all rich with antioxidants, substances known to scavenge cell-damaging free radicals in the brain. Also, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and broccoli sprouts contain a powerful compound called sulforaphane, believed to boost the body’s own production of antioxidants.

One famous 2005 study followed 13,388 women over several decades, and found that those that ate the most cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens stayed mentally sharp for far longer than those that ate the least. New research from Rush University, in Chicago, further suggests that a deficiency of B12, found in fish, liver, milk and eggs, may hasten brain shrinkage as previ-

Beyond Nutrition and Exercise

Following Nature’s Master Plan for Building a Great Brain

by Dr. Marvin Sams hile it is well established that proper nutrition and physical exercise are important for efficient brain function, what does one do when things go wrong with the brain and there are problems with focus, attention, learning, memory, mood and behavior? Is there are a natural, drug-free solution for such issues?

The good news is there is. For those with the neurological inefficacies producing ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD and bipolar symptoms, problematic brain areas can now be identified with the quantitative EEG (computerized brain wave analysis) and the brain can be literally taught to function at high levels, using its own resources.

Four basic neurological training techniques, as represented by the acronym PAM/R, are currently employed in neurotherapy:

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Performance feedback: Neurofeedback, also known as brainwave training, feeds the working brainwave frequencies back to the brain as audio tones. This gives the brain the information it needs to modify the frequencies it is using for more efficient performance.

Activation: Rhythmic flashing lights and pulsing tones, a process called AudioVisual Entrainment, activates and “exercises” specific performance areas, especially in the deep brain.

Modulation: Transcranial DC Stimulation uses a small device that emits a gentle, steady current over the scalp. This safe and highly effective process helps modulate and normalize brain function.

Resilience: Breathing biofeedback teaches and fosters improved emotional resilience to reduce stress, to get up for the “big game” (or test, or sales call) and then relax when it is over.

With these techniques, the brain can be quickly brought to peak neurological efficiency. When this is accomplished, focus, attention and learning abilities are enhanced, there is a sense of well-being, memory is improved and there is better emotional resilience to “go with the flow.”

Dr. Marvin Sams is a board certified neurotherapist and director of The Sams Center, in Plano. For more information, call 972612-0160 or visit GreatBrain.com. See ads, pages 10 and 14.

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ously functioning cells die off.

Overloading on refined carbohydrates like white flour, pasta and potatoes carries a similar result. “Elevated blood sugar can destroy the brain,” advises Perlmutter, pointing to a 2005 study in the journal Neurology, which linked accelerated brain shrinkage with elevated blood sugar.

Prevent hormonal havoc. Ebbing hormones can also have a measurable impact on our ability to recall words and follow through on tasks, says Hawaii naturopathic physician Laurie Steelsmith, author of Natural Choices for Women’s Health.

One 2009 University of California study of 2,362 women between the ages of 42 and 52 found that 60 percent suffered memory and mental-processing problems. “I hear about it almost every day from women in my practice,” comments Steelsmith. “They’re trying to find the word for, say, ‘garlic’ or ‘pen,’ and it just won’t come to them. It can be very frustrating.”

Steelsmith notes that estrogen plays a critical role in influencing verbal and spatial memory and fine motor skills and bolstering the blood-brain barrier to keep toxins out.

Meanwhile, progesterone acts on the same brain receptors that Valium does, promoting calm and aiding sleep. In the

Dieting and the Brain

by Anne “Kip” Watson ot eating or restricting your eating is the last thing you want to do to lose weight and feel better about yourself. Excessive dieting reduces neurons, jeopardizes the brain and eats away at your muscles. The brain sends out distress signals and begins to alter your personality. In order to lose weight and feel better, eliminate the wrong foods, such as processed, fried and chemical-laden items, and add more of the following foods in correctly sized portions:

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• Coffee – one cup of coffee without additives improves attention and problem solving • Blueberries – helps protect the brain from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s • Spinach and leafy greens – rich in B vitamins that help ignite euphoric mood-boosters • Flaxseed and avocado – the right kind of fat essential for blood circulation and optimal brain functioning • Peppermint – the scent assists with focus and performance, so add some to tea or water • Salmon - improves cognition and alertness with Omega-3 fatty acids • Oatmeal – great morning start to curb irritability and an energy crash Kip Watson, a licensed counselor and certified personal trainer, is owner of NeuroSport, in Frisco. For more information, call 972-380-1842 or visit NeuroSportAthlete. com. See ad, page 41.

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days immediately prior to menstruation, when estrogen and progesterone levels are low, or once women begin to approach menopause and they stay low, the brain feels it.

In an ideal world, the adrenal glands kick in to pick up where the ovaries leave off—producing sex hormones. “But women that are stressed out or not nourishing themselves tend to experience adrenal fatigue, so their adrenals are not able to act as a secondary source of hormones,” says Steelsmith.

For ovulating women, she recommends taking 100 to 175 milligrams (mg) daily of the herb Rhodiola rosea during the second half of the menstrual cycle to support fatigued adrenal glands and ward off hormone-related brain fog.

If the condition occurs only for a few days before a menstrual period, and is accompanied by tender breasts, lack of sleep and heavy monthly bleeding, the problem may be low progesterone. For that, try the herb chaste tree berry during the second half of the menstrual cycle, or consider a low dose, over-the-counter progesterone cream, says Northrup.

For post-menopausal women, she recommends taking up to 50 mg per day of pregnenolone, an adrenal hormone that the body naturally converts into estrogen and progesterone.

(While pregnenolone is available over the counter, Steelsmith suggests that women have a naturopath first test their hormone levels in order to determine an appropriate dose.)

Or, older men and women experiencing age-related memory loss can try a soy-based nutritional supplement called phosphatidylserine (PS), which is believed to bolster cellto-cell communication and levels of the memory-boosting neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

Exercise mind and body. Aamodt notes that a common cause of cognitive decline is the accumulation of clogged blood vessels in the brain that choke off blood and oxygen. Thus, “Regular exercise is the single most useful thing you can do to maintain your cognitive abilities later in life,” she says.

Recent studies by researchers at the University of Illinois and elsewhere have shown that as little as 45 minutes of aerobic exercise, three times per week, may not only stall agerelated brain atrophy in the elderly, but even help regenerate parts of the brain that have withered. “There is no medication on the planet that can do that,” says Perlmutter.

Brain exercise is helpful, as well. Exposure to new experiences prompts the brain to literally lay down new neuronal networks, becoming stronger. A 2009 Mayo Clinic study found that of 1,300 people ages 70 to 89, those that had regularly engaged in mentally challenging activities in their 50s and 60s (such as playing games, quilting, building model airplanes, or learning a new language or instrument) were 40 percent less likely to suffer memory problems.

The key, advise the experts, is not to stick with the same crossword puzzle for years. Instead, try something new. As Steelsmith puts it: “Use it or lose it.”

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer headquartered near Boulder, CO. Connect at Lisa@LisaAnnMarshall.com.

healthykids

A Parental Guide to Brain Development

by Ed Pilkington n the article “How a Brain Grows; Five Ways to Aid Development,” Dr. Sandra Aamodt makes an excellent point with the statement that, “A child’s brain ‘raises itself’” when given good nutrition and a stimulating environment.

As a professional educator for more than 40 years, I have observed children (mostly teenagers) raised in various environments. Psychologists describe three major parenting styles that generally produce either children that become confident teens and adults, those who remain dependent on parents far too long and those who ultimately rebel.

Dr. Jim Faye, Ph.D., of the Love and Logic Institute, describes three parenting styles as “consultant,” “helicopter,” and “drill sergeant.”

He would be in full agreement with Aamodt regarding the value of parents fostering self-control in their children. He encourages parents to adopt the “consultant” role, where the parent demonstrates (rather than telling), how to take care of one’s self, make decisions, resist temptations and accept responsibilities.

In my experience as an educator, I find that students raised in the consultant environment are more likely to take ownership of their education and achieve greater success. My contact with many years worth of alumni verifies this, regarding success in the workplace and in their personal lives.

Their brain development is much more related to their having learned by doing with their parents than having been subjected to various “brain-building” techniques such as a regimen of baroque music and educational DVDs.

I

HOW A BRAIN GROWS Five Ways to Aid Development

by Lisa Marshall

Parents that believe playing Beethoven for their infant, investing in educational videos for their toddler or forcing schoolage youngsters to sit still and study for hours will help them to build a better brain have another “think” coming.

“P

eople are anxious to do everything they can to improve their child’s intelligence, yet many are focusing their energy in places where they are not getting the best payoff for it,” says neuroscientist Sandra Aamodt, Ph.D., co-author of Welcome to Your Child’s Brain: How the Mind Grows from Conception to College.

In their new book, Aamodt and Princeton University Neuroscience Professor Sam Wang try to dispel what they believe are many myths that have

led parents to worry too much about the influence they can have on a child’s cognitive development and in some cases, have led to doing more harm than good.

Aamodt says that genetics and thousands of years of human evolution have already exerted a heavy influence on a child’s developmental future before he or she is born. In the absence of abuse and neglect, and with good nutrition and a stimulating environment, a child’s brain “raises itself” in many ways, the authors maintain. Meanwhile,

Ed Pilkington is president and founder of Willow Bend Academy, in Plano and Lewisville. For more info call 972-599-7882 or visit WillowBend Academy.com. See ad, page 44.

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they argue that there is little scientific evidence showing that factors like birth order and exposure to classical music and educational videos have an impact on cognitive development.

“Children come ‘out of the box’ with individual temperaments that strongly influence the possible paths they can take through life,” Aamodt observes. “Most parents believe that they can have a bigger influence on their child’s personalities than they actually do. They should relax and enjoy their kids more.”

The authors offer these scientifically backed tips for parents and caregivers to influence a child’s developing brain:

Don’t stress during pregnancy. “The hormones produced in the mother’s body during stressful times can cross over into the placenta, exposing the child. If it’s a chronic condition, it can lead to problems with brain development,” counsels Aamodt.

One 2008 review paper from Harvard Medical School led researchers to conclude that babies born to stressed mothers are more likely to suffer from autism spectrum disorders. Others, from researchers in Canada and the UK, found that women that endure natural disasters while pregnant are more likely to have babies that suffer from schizophrenia, decreased IQ and depression.

Animal research has repeatedly demonstrated that babies of stressed mothers often grow up with touchy stressresponse systems.

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Switch off the baby videos. University of Washington researchers have found that baby educational videos, like Baby Einstein and Brainy Baby fail to boost language skills and may actually slow acquisition of vocabulary.

“For every hour per day spent watching baby DVDs and videos, infants understood an average of six to eight fewer words than infants that did not watch them,” the report said.

Other research by the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that exposure to action-packed videos may increase the risk of development of attention disorders. “Babies are wired to learn from other people, and every period of time they are not interacting with people because they are watching TV interferes with that face-to-face interaction,” says Aamodt.

Teach a second language.

Bilingual children consistently outperform single-language speakers in tests of executive brain function (a measure of organizational and planning skills) and tend to be better at making choices and understanding other people’s perspectives, Aamodt says. “The very first act of speech for a bilingual person is picking which language to use, and you do that based on your understanding of the other person’s perspective.” Aamodt recommends exposing youngsters to a second language in infancy—if possible, just by speaking to them in a different language—and exploring more formal instruction

before the age of 8.

Foster self-control. “Ultimately, parents can make the biggest difference in their child’s adult quality of life by promoting self-control,” Aamodt says. Recent research published in the journal Science and elsewhere suggests that children with greater self-control (meaning they can resist temptation, stay on task and control their own behavior) achieve greater success in school, the workplace and their personal lives.

“Preschool children’s ability to resist temptation is a much better predictor of academic success than their IQ scores,” Aamodt notes.

She recommends engaging and progressively more challenging tasks.

“You want to stretch the child just a little; get them to do something a little bit hard, but that they can succeed at if they concentrate.”

Encourage study breaks. “Some very old science tells us that to learn effectively, you need to take breaks and allow your brain to consolidate what you have already learned before you go back and try to learn some more,” says Aamodt. “If you study a total of an hour, you will learn twice as much if you break it up into two 30-minute spans.”

Hooray for recess.

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer headquartered near Boulder, CO. Connect at Lisa@LisaAnnMarshall.com.

wisewords or else believe we can do even more because we practice self-care.

Keep in mind that we can’t solve burnout with the same level of consciousness that created it. We have to catch ourselves in the act of overlooking our true needs, stop, do a selfinquiry that looks at things as they are, and pinpoint what drains our energy, as well as what brings us to life.

The Benefits of Burnout An oxymoron?

Not according to psychologist Joan Borysenko.

by Linda Sechrist

How did writing Fried affect you?

J

photo by Charles Bush

oan Borysenko, Ph.D., a pioneer in integrative medicine, is a renowned expert on the mind-body connection. Her work has been foundational in an international health care revolution that recognizes the role of meaning and the spiritual dimension of life as integral aspects of health and healing.

Most recently, the Harvard-trained biologist and psychologist explored the anatomy of burnout with Facebook friends in her latest book, Fried: Why You Burn Out and How to Revive.

What does it mean to physically, emotionally and spiritually burn out?

When you’re stressed out, you keep chasing the same old carrot, whatever that may be for you. But when you’re burned out, you eventually give up the chase. The hope that you can create a meaningful life fizzles and you find yourself sitting in the ashes of your dreams.

In a culture wedded to positive thinking, burnout and its first cousin, depression, are thought of as disorders in need of a fix. What if instead, we see them as losses of naïveté, false identities and faulty assumptions that are making way for a more authentic life? What if we viewed burnout as an invitation to come into alignment with a more elegant expression of our gifts, relationships and overall life energy?

The late psychologist Herbert Freudenberger, Ph.D., who first popularized the concept in his 1980 book, Burnout: The High Cost of High Achievement, believed the condition is a painful affliction of good people trying to give their very best. He defined it as “the extinction of motivation or incentive, especially where one’s devo-

tion to a cause or relationship fails to produce the desired results.”

Why do we burn out even when we regularly use selfcare practices?

Many people are shocked to learn that even though I’m a positive person, with a regular yoga and meditation practice, as well as healthy eating habits, I have burned out more than once. Ironically, but predictably, I was trying to do and be my best. For me, burnout means that my most loving, creative self goes missing; I contract into the smallest, most negative version of myself, which is not a pretty picture.

I find that for many people that intellectualize a great portion of their lives, burnout doesn’t become real until they are not only physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted, but are also in pain. Knowing ourselves and our limitations is essential, because our tendency is to become complacent and think we’re too busy to tend to our well-being,

In order to follow my own advice, I completely changed the way I live. I realized that at age 66, I needed to pay more attention to my physical body. Physical therapy and Pilates floor exercises are now a priority five days a week, as well as yoga, both of which have helped to correct my hip joint problems. For aerobic exercise, I walk fast for 45 minutes at least five days a week. In inclement weather, I ride an indoor bike. Altogether, it averages out to 90 minutes of daily exercise, five days a week.

My husband and I switched to a plant-based diet of organic whole foods, so we now set aside more time to plan, shop and cook. We also make more time for family and friends. We still both work, but fewer hours than before. In other words, I do what I can within a framework of love. I choose to do what is important to me—activities that give me life and energy.

What is it about living “in the now” that feels so enlivening?

When we live in our heads and intellectualize, we tend to spin negative thoughts that hurt our physical health and sap our energy. By actively focusing on what we are doing in the moment, we can engage our senses, more thoroughly enjoy ourselves and have an awareness of being that is not possible when we are ruminating over past memories or projecting ourselves into daydreams about a far-off future. In such present moments, because we are relaxed and open to our inner wisdom, as well as our interconnection with the exquisite wholeness of life, we feel the most vital and alive.

Connect at JoanBorysenko.com.

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greenliving to miscarriage, prostate and breast cancer, obesity and in children, behavioral and cognitive problems. If the plastic is worn, scratched, repeatedly washed or heated, leaching is more likely.

Alternative: Use stainless steel or glass containers that can be frozen and heated without worry.

EAT PLASTIC-FREE Healthy, Practical Tips for People & the Planet

by Brita Belli

P

lastic is nearly impossible to avoid these days, but we should beware of its health impacts.

First, consider that the chemicals that form plastic compounds are let loose when plastic becomes worn, scratched or heated. When we use plastic containers for food and drinks and these chemicals are freed up, they can enter our food supply and contribute to a toxic buildup in our bodies. Exposure to such chemicals poses particular danger to pregnant women, babies and young children, whose hormone and brain development can be more easily affected by such toxic insults.

Next, consider that Americans annually send more than 29 million tons of plastic to landfills, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Once there, it deteriorates, yet never fully breaks down. Plastic is one of the least recycled forms of packaging, due to its myriad recycling codes and disposable convenience (consider how many of us return plastic grocery bags to the store).

Even worse, countless plastic bags, containers, six-pack rings, beverage straws and other plastic human detritus have found their way into our oceans. The United Nations Environment Programme estimates there are currently 46,000 pieces of plastic in every square mile of ocean. Plastic garbage patches entangle, choke and kill turtles, dolphins and other sea life or, after the eroding effects of sun and saltwater, disintegrate into microscopic plastic pellets consumed by fish, which then wind up on our dinner plates.

Here are some ubiquitous plastics of concern and practical ways to avoid using them. n Plastic food storage containers. With plastic storage containers (particularly polycarbonate plastic, with a 7 recycling number or resin identification code), the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) is of primary concern. BPA molecules are linked to form the plastic, but some molecules can escape and leach into food contents.

BPA is a known hormone disruptor that has been tied

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n Plastic water and soda bottles. Flimsy plastic beverage bottles (bearing a number 1 recycling symbol) are made with polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a petroleum-based plastic that can leach antimony, a metal linked to lung disease, heart problems and stomach ulcers at high concentrations; and phthalates, a common plasticizer associated with male genital deformities, low sperm counts, early puberty, susceptibility to allergens and autism. Hot conditions (such as the inside of a car) increase the leaching potential, as can reuse.

Alternative: Invest in a few stainless steel reusable water bottles. n Plastic sandwich bags. Most plastic sandwich bags are made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE), indicated by resin code 4. Although not known to leach chemicals (it’s still wise to avoid microwaving them, however), they contribute to the massive quantity of plastic waste produced each year.

Alternatives: Many reusable cloth lunch bags plus glass, bamboo and stainless steel snack containers are available. n Clear food packaging, plastic squeeze bottles and peanut butter containers. Many pre-wrapped items in the deli or produce section, as well as condiment squeeze bottles and peanut butter containers bearing a number 3 code, are made with polyvinyl chloride or PVC, one of the most dangerous plastics. During the production of PVC, harmful chemicals like lead, dioxins and vinyl chloride are released that have been tied to health outcomes ranging from learning and behavioral problems to cancer and birth defects. Fatty foods such as cheeses and meats wrapped in number 3 plastics are particularly prone to leaching phthalates.

Alternatives: Opt for food that’s not wrapped in plastic, such as meat from a butcher or deli counter, rather than prepackaged in the refrigerated bin. Also consider switching to condiments and peanut butters packaged in glass. n Styrofoam takeout containers. Polystyrene foam is technically a number 6 plastic. It’s common in to-go containers and egg cartons, and the styrene that can leach out is tied to many health impacts, including neurological damage and harm to the liver and kidneys. Further, styrene is known to build up in body fat, increasing its toxic potential over time.

Alternatives: Shop at natural grocery stores and places where customers can bring their own containers. With egg cartons, opt for cardboard, preferably made from recycled material.

Brita Belli is the editor of E-The Environmental Magazine.

Sources: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, epa.gov; United Nations Environment Programme, unep.org; Healthy Child Healthy World, HealthyChild.org; Our Stolen Future, OurStolenFuture.org.

The Real Cost of Bottle Water Americans pay on average $0.002 per gallon for tap water and what amounts to more than $10 per gallon for bottle water (Natural Resources Defense Council). Per gallon, that’s more than 3 times the cost of gasoline.

34.6 billion single-serving (1 liter or less) plastic water bottles are purchased in the U.S. annually (Container Recycling Institute).

17.6 million barrels of oil are used annually to produce plastic (PET or polyethylene) bottles to meet U.S. consumer demand; enough to fuel more than one million cars (NRDC).

2.7 million tons of plastic used annually for worldwide bottling of water (Earth Policy Institute).

86 percent of plastic water bottles used in the U.S. end up in the garbage instead of being recycled (CRI).

Approximately two million tons of PET plastic bottles pile up in U.S. landfills annually (CRI).

Plastic water bottles take up to 1,000 years to biodegrade (CRI).

23.1 percent of single-serve water bottles are recycled, the lowest rate of all noncommercial plastic containers (CRI).

Incinerating used PET bottles produces toxic byproducts such as chlorine gas and ash containing heavy metals.

Beverage companies use vast quantities of water, making huge profits and leaving locals with depleted resources in addition to economic and environmental problems (Earth Policy Institute).

For more info, visit.nrdc.org, Container Recycling.org, or Earth-Policy.org. natural awakenings

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healingways

HOW CAN WE ALL

GET ALONG? Resolving conflict benefits mind and body.

by Lisa Shumate

“A

significant amount of wearand-tear on the body comes from prolonged unresolved conflict—from not letting go, holding grudges and reliving situations over and over in your head,” says Raj Dhasi, a Toronto-based conflict management consultant who specializes in the physiological impacts of conflict. “But if conflict happens and my mindset is: ‘I can handle this. We can work through this,’ that is phenomenally beneficial for the brain and body.”

Dhasi explains that when faced with any conflict— whether it’s an angry boss, disgruntled neighbor, political opponent or untidy teen in the house—our limbic system responds swiftly by igniting a cascade of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol and spiking our heart rate and blood pressure.

Meanwhile, our prefrontal cortex— the part of the brain responsible for thinking things through and putting the brakes on emotional, irrational behaviors—begins to slowly light up.

The fundamental

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problem is that in the race to mount a response, the limbic system often wins, prompting us to greet conflict impulsively by raising our voice and saying things we later regret before our rational brain has time to step in.

On the flip side, many of us avoid conflict altogether, harboring discontent in such a way that we feel powerless or even threatened. Making matters worse, our fight-or-flight response never quite goes away, says Gary Harper, author of The Joy of Conflict Resolution: Transforming Victims, Villains and Heroes in the Workplace and at Home. “More people are stressed out by not dealing with a conflict than with dealing with it,” Harper observes. “If you deal with it in the moment, it allows you to let it go.”

Pause, Breathe, Consider Harper advises that one way to deal with conflict on the spot is to pause and give our more rational side a chance to arrive at a solution. “Before you react, slow down, take a deep breath and listen to your inner dialogue,” he

says. “In that deep breath, you might realize that you need five minutes [to consider a response].” If you still remain in attack mode, it might not be the best time to respond.

He adds that while no conflict should be avoided altogether, careful consideration might lead us to conclude that some battles aren’t worth fighting. Ask yourself: How important is this person to me? How important is this issue to me? “If neither is vital to you, save your energy for a better use.

If the issue is not important, but the relationship is, it’s okay to accommodate or give in sometimes,” he says.

such as politics or faith are involved, resolving conflict isn’t necessarily about reaching an agreement. “You cannot negotiate people’s values. Sometimes, these are things that people are willing to lie down and die for,” she says.

“Instead, sometimes you might need to agree to disagree.”

In the end, whether the conflict is a minor disagreement at home, a workplace quarrel or a complicated

Agree to Disagree Terrie McCants, coordinator of the conflict resolution program at Kansas State University, notes that in some cases, especially when deeply held values

Lisa Shumate is a freelance writer in Boulder, CO.

When Grumpy Comes to Visit

Be Direct and Follow-Up Some conflicts are worth confronting.

Then, Barbara Pachter, a business communications consultant and author of The Power of Positive Confrontation, offers what she calls the WAC approach for dealing with most cases of work and family conflict.

W: Ask yourself: What is really bothering me? “A lot of times, people don’t do this. They just say, ‘This person is a jerk,’ rather than specifying the problem.”

A: Ask them for a solution. “We often complain, but we don’t identify a solution,” she says. “Determine what is going to solve the problem for you and ask for it.”

C: Check in. “Turn it over to the other person and ask for their response. Inquire: ‘Is this possible? What do you think?’”

All the while, stay curious about the other person’s perspective, suggests Harper. “We tend to see ourselves as the innocent victim, or we go into hero mode and tend to see the other person as the villain,” he says. “Of course, the other person is doing the same thing, and that makes collaboration tough.” Instead, ask sincere questions—and really listen.

political dispute, the process of properly working through it can leave both parties feeling stronger and improve their communities. “Conflict forces you to problem-solve collaboratively and come up with options and elegant solutions,” she explains. “If handled well, it can add brilliant things to your life.”

by Kat Smith ver have one of those days that turn into weeks, or months? You wake up grumpy and hard to live with. You’re just a conflict waiting to happen. It takes a toll on your marriage, job and other relationships. So, what do you do when ole grumpy comes to visit?

Make a date with yourself and keep it weekly. When we are constantly taking care of people and things, we tend to deplete ourselves of that good feeling energy that helps us balance out our emotions and everyday life. It also gives us a healthier outlook on life in general and thus, more patience with others.

Next, consider limiting your food intake and adhere to the old adage, “You are what you eat.” This means not only eating better and exercising, but we also need to monitor our visual and audio intake, as well. The drama played out in primetime can become reruns of our home life if we are not mindful. Music has the power to actually alter water, according to Dr. Masaru Emoto, author of Messages from Water. From continuing experiments, they concluded that water reacts to lyrics. We are made of 98 percent water, so maybe hostile lyrics influence aggression.

Finally, make it a game. Ask yourself who or what invited grumpy?

Nobody wants to be grumpy, but we’ve all been there. Beat it by finding something to give you a good, hearty laugh. Share a heartfelt act and feel good about the world and the people in it. Give a hug and receive one.

Send ole grumpy packing and get your smile back. One way to avoid conflict is to keep grumpy at bay. Send ‘em packing and claim your hours, days and life back.

E

Kat Smith is a certified loveologist, author of Romantic Retreats in Texas and former syndicated radio talk show host.

For more information, visit Kat-Smith.com.

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inspiration

WABI SABI LOVE Embracing Imperfections in Relationships

by Arielle Ford

T

he ancient Japanese art form of Wabi Sabi honors all things old, weathered, worn and impermanent by perceiving the beauty in imperfections. It discovers grace in things modest, humble and unconventional.

Wabi Sabi love is the art and practice of appreciating the quirks and imperfections in our self and our partner. Listening with our heart, we come to see with

Family Meeting

D

o you hang out with your mom and dad, your brother and sister? Do you write them a lot or call them on the phone often? I don’t. Not that I have anything against them, it’s just that I don’t seem to have the time.

One January my dad called and asked me to attend a family meeting in Phoenix. My first response was to whine. Not obvious whining, just the kind of, “Well, I don’t know, I’m pretty busy,” kind of whining.

My excuse didn’t work though, because when I heard all of my brothers and sisters were going to be there, I knew I couldn’t miss it. I prayed that God would give me grace with them and help me to see what He wanted me to see.

I was there less than 24 hours, but in that time God opened my eyes to see

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some things about this family of mine I had never seen before.

First, I noticed the people I had grown up with had become little more than acquaintances. We simply had gotten so busy with our own lives that we forgot to remember we were family.

Second, I realized they were adults just like me. I was listening to them talk about their lives, and began to see them in a new way. They weren’t the annoying little sister or the bullying big brother that I had so long remembered them to be. Instead, they were adults with their own dreams, joys and hopes.

They had grown up and I shouldn’t have been surprised. If I could grow up a little, so could they.

I realized these people gathered around the room telling family stories were God’s gift to me, if I would

it, too. Discerning the hidden dance between partners brings emotional maturity to our relationships as we shift our focus from what’s wrong to what’s right. This new, true view deeply bonds us and is a key to everlasting love—and any harmonious relationship.

Spiritual teacher David Deida counsels, “Practicing love often means… surrendering all hold on the familiar act you call ‘me.’” By choosing to turn everyday conflict into compassion, we cultivate a more loving relationship through humor, listening, intimacy and generosity, even when someone is acting out, refusing to listen or shutting down.

Acceptance and its counterpart,

only open up my life and heart to receive them while I still have the opportunity.

Looking back, I realized our family meeting hadn’t produced some new resolution or new set of objectives.

Instead, I came back with a thankful heart. Thankful for the blessing that God had given me in my family. Thankful for a mom and dad and brothers and sisters that put up with me—even loved me. And most of all, thankful for the chance to find that out.

Excerpted with permission from Ordinary Faith, by Clay Lein, pastor of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, in Frisco. For more information, visit StPhilips Frisco.org or to purchase Ordinary Faith, visit Amazon.com.

localresources We shift our choices from “what I want,” to what is ultimately best for the relationship.

understanding, are crucial to achieving relationship harmony. It’s the highest form of love and, like most things worth striving for, requires patience, commitment, personal responsibility, playfulness and practice. Imagine how great it is to feel loved all the time by a friend and partner—during the good, the bad and everything in-between.

It starts when we shift our perception and see our mate’s behavior through a gentler and kinder lens of mutual respect and lightheartedness.

Research by Psychologist Sandra Murray, Ph.D., at the University of Buffalo, reveals that donning “rose-colored glasses” and idealizing our partner leads to more happiness and satisfaction in a relationship, and that the happiest couples focus on what’s right. In what is known as the Pygmalion effect, the greater the expectation placed upon people, the better they perform.

Keeping an open heart and mind also prepares us to receive our partner’s best expectations and highest level of caring, even if it might seem different than what we expect. When we choose to lovingly accept each other, let go of issues and apologize for any wrongdoing, it transforms the relationship.

Overall, we better appreciate the bigger picture and go from being annoyed to enjoyed!

FRESH PRODUCE & PRODUCTS Dedicated “locavores” can easily find delicious, nutritious choices, at these food stores and local marketplaces in the North Texas area.

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CUPBOARD NATURAL FOODS 200 W Congress St, Denton 76201 940-387-5386

SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET 2301 Cross Timbers Rd, Flower Mound 75028 972-874-7380

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SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET 5190 Preston Rd, Frisco 75034 972-464-5776 SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET 207 East FM 544, Murphy 75094 972-265-4770

MARKET STREET - ALLEN 985 W Bethany Dr, Allen 75013 972-908-3830 MARKET STREET - COLLEYVILLE 5605 Colleyville Blvd, Colleyville 76034 817-577-5020 MARKET STREET - FRISCO 11999 Dallas Pkwy, Frisco 75034 214-872-1500

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Bestselling author Arielle Ford is a leader in the personal growth and contemporary spirituality movement.

Her new release is Wabi Sabi Love (WabiSabiLove.com). Subscribe to a free Soulmate Secret newsletter at ArielleFord.com. natural awakenings

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naturalpet

PINT-SIZED

PETS

Smaller Pets Have Big Potential

by Randy Kambic

Whether they crawl, swim, hop or fly, speak, make other sounds or stay silent, many small wonders can make ideal pets.

W

hile 85 percent of U.S. households with pets feature a dog or a cat, giving a home to smaller friendly creatures can mean less maintenance and less cost—including only tiny stomachs to fill and no vaccinations. Downsizing to well-considered domesticated companions also provides uncommon windows to animal behavior for adults and youngsters alike.

Apparently, many appreciate these benefits. The same 2011 American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey that reported on dogs and cats also showed that 12.6 million residences have fish; 5.7 million, birds; 5 million, small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, gerbils, hamsters, mice and rats); and 4.6 million, reptiles.

“These animals pose a world of possibilities,” says Veterinary Doctor Kimberly Weiss, owner of Heartland Healing Hands, in Oklahoma City.

“They all have individual needs. Having them around starts as something cool, a special cachet for a youngster, and then, if fostered by parents, into a special sense of responsibility.”

Fish Watching colorful fish swim around an aquarium encourages a serene, soothing feeling. In addition to their traditional purview in kids’ bedrooms and seafood restaurants, more workplaces and physicians’ offices sport tanks these days.

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Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Melinda Fernyhough, Ph.D., a manager with the Hartz Mountain Corporation, recommends that a first collection encompass a variety of species that happily coexist, behave differently, and don’t lead to overcrowding. “It is best to error on the side of fewer fish; you can always add more,” she says. “A good initial combination can be darting petras, slower moving mollies and guppies, interactive oscars, and plecostomus bottom feeders.”

Birds For first-time bird guardians, “Consider starting off with a small bird, such as a parakeet, cockatiel or canary,” says Dr. John Simon, a veterinarian and owner of Woodside Animal Clinic, in Royal Oak, Michigan. “If you are more adventurous, consider what you desire most in a bird—how much talking you expect, its appearance, level of friendliness—and how much it will grow. Some larger breeds, such as Amazon parrots, macaws and cockatoos, can live 60 or 70 years, so your selection could remain in your family for generations. If you’re away a lot, consider housing two of the same breed; they can keep each other company.”

There’s no magic to producing a talker. “The more interaction, attention and mental stimulation, the happier the bird and greater inclination to talk,” advises Weiss. She suggests taking a bird out of its cage regularly

and providing lead- and zinc-free mirrors, noisemakers and other toys to ward off boredom. Favorite gabbers include African greys, macaws and double-yellowheaded Amazons; cockatoos are more prone to imitate sounds.

Small Animals While many rabbits do not like to be held and cuddled and hamsters can sometimes nip if awakened or startled, guinea pigs are typically friendly and often enjoy interaction with people.

They can emit a charming chirp or “oink” sound when petted or touched.

Smaller rodents like gerbils, mice and rats love scurrying around their cages and “jogging” in wheels. Hamsters and rats are sometimes active at night, so their cages might not be suitable in bedrooms. Guinea pigs are more docile and sleep much more.

“These ‘pocket pets’ like fresh veggies to supplement their nutrition— green beans, zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peas, spinach, arugula and green peppers,” advises Seattlebased Veterinarian Darla Rewers, owner of Ancient Arts Holistic Services. “Rabbits should get more of the lettuce-type greens, but limit the spinach, because it is high in calcium.”

Reptiles Whether it’s the dinosaur-like appearance of an iguana, flicking tongue of a chameleon, intricate scale patterns of a snake or wise-looking turtle head, the exotic appearance of reptiles fascinates children.

They take up little space inside a small aquarium and their lack of fur prevents potential allergic reactions. However, some reptiles need special lighting and specific amounts of water; maintaining proper levels of heat and humidity is vital to some of them in order to replicate their natural environment.

It’s best to learn as much as you can about a potential pet before bringing it home. Understanding species temperament, behavior patterns, maintenance needs, diet and average lifespan helps you know what to expect beforehand and ultimately to better enjoy your choice of the small-pet experience.

Randy Kambic, in Estero, FL, is a freelance writer for Natural Awakenings.

calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by noon on the 9th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NA-NTX.com (within advertising section).

Yoga Training Skills (YTS): Yoga Skills 1 – Sunstone Yoga’s 200-hr teacher training certification in module format. Entire program is divided into 12 workshops. Sunstone Yoga Academy in Addison, 4540 Beltway Dr. For more info: 214-764-2119 x 3 or SunstoneYoga.com.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1

Bicycle Dreams Documentary Film Night – 7-10pm. The award-winning feature-length documentary about the Race Across America (RAAM), will premiere. $10/advance, $15/at door. Studio Movie Grill Royal Lane, Dallas/Fort Worth. Tixs: 214-361-2966. More info: DORBA.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Square Foot Gardening: Growing Vegetables in North Texas – 7-8pm. Learn how a small, sunny space can help you put fresh, organic food on your plate. Free. Davis Library, 7501 Independence Pkwy, Bldg B, Plano. More info, Deb Bliss: 972769-4313 or DebB@Plano.gov.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Dirty Dozen Mountain Bike Race – 9am. A 12-hr and 6-hr mountain bike relay race where teams try to log as many laps as possible on a 7- to 8-mile course with only one team member riding at a time. Bluff Creek Ranch, 537 Owl Creek Rd, Warda. More info: DORBA.org.

Garden Adopt a Plot Sign-up & Seed Sale – 9-11am. Fire Station Training Room by Helping Hands Garden, 255 Parkway Blvd, Coppell. Info@ CoppellCommunityGarden.org.

Spring Green in Your Lawn – 10:15am. Learn the in’s and out’s of lawn maintenance and when to weed, feed and stimulate grass this Spring. Free.

Calloway’s Nursery – All locations. Calloways.com.

Lost in the Forest – 2-3pm. Learn how to survive being Lost in the Forest. Learn what to do, what to carry, and make a handy survival guide to take along. Tyler State Park, 789 Park Rd 16, Tyler.

903-597-5338.

Science Fair FAQs – 3pm. Learn what it takes to make a winning science fair project. A retired science professor and former science fair judge will be on hand to answer questions for parents & kids.

Age 5 & up. Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland, Denton. 940-349-8752.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Authorfest XXIII featuring Neal Shusterman – 6:30-8pm. Award-winning teen author Neal Shusterman will visit the Sherman Public Library.

Shusterman will discuss his works. Books will be

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 DDRC Polar Paddle Trip – Feb 11 & 12. Dallas Down River Club will again pay homage to the many great “Freeze Trips” staged by our friends, the Alamo City Rivermen, over more than 20 years.

Meet at Little River Boat Ramp, Horatio, AR. For more info, Bryan Jackson: 972-979-2519 or HollowCreek@PaddlinPals.com.

February

Basic Bicycle Maintenance – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to lube a chain, fix a flat tire in record time, and make other minor adjustments to your bike. No experience necessary. Free. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd, Plano. Register: 972-985-2241.

19 balcony parties and five elegant masked balls. Hot Chelle Rae will headline at 10pm, Feb 11. Family Gras! is on Feb 12. For more info and complete schedule: MardiGrasGalveston.com.

Kurt Thomas Gymnastics Invitational: Feb 11 & 12. available for purchase and a book signing will follow the presentation. Sponsored by The Friends of the Sherman Public Library and the Sherman Council for Arts and Humanities. Free. Sherman Public Library, 421 N Travis, Sherman. Jennifer Cummings: 903-892-7240.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 DORBA General Meeting – 6-8pm. Dallas OffRoad Bicycle Association. Open to the public. More info: DORBA.org.

Natural Weight Loss in a Sweet World – 6:307:30pm. Sugar affects weight loss and health, find out how you avoid it in its hidden forms. This workshop helps continue natural weight loss. RSVP required by Feb 6; space limited. Free. Cooking God’s Way, 2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano. Jeff Pearce: 972-379-7851.

Saving From a Rainy Day: Making a Rain Barrel – 6:30-8:30pm. Dr. Dotty Woodson, Extension Program Specialist, Water Resources. Construct a 55-gallon rain barrel, and learn about installing an efficient irrigation system. $50/barrel, includes materials. Texas AgriLifel Research and Extension Center, Whitehurst Atrium, 17360 Coit Rd, Dallas. Register: Dallas.

TAMU.edu/Courses/February-7,-2012-Saving-FromA-Rainy-Day-Making-A-Rain-Barrel.

Hot Chocolate 15k & 5k – 7:30am. Ghirardelli is partnering with the Ronald McDonald House Charities to raise money for their “home-away-fromhome” program. Race packets pick-up at the Fair Park Automotive Building, 11am-7pm, Feb 9 & 10; no race day packet pick-up. Fair Park Automotive Building, 1010 First Ave, Dallas. HotChocolate15k. com/Dallas.

Bird Walk – 7:30-10:30am. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. Registration requested, but not required: 972-219-7980.

mark your calendar Kurt Thomas Gymnastics Invitational – Feb 11 & 12. 8am-8pm. Offers high-energy competition, an exciting array of skill and talent for gymnastic enthusiasts, and a chance to get up close to highly ranked gymnasts from all around the country. Food and beverage facilities available, as well as vendor booths offering gymnastic garments and accessories. $15/adults, $10/children 12 & under, free/3 & under. Frisco Conference Center, 7601 Gaylord Pkwy, Frisco. For more info: 214-872-4646 or KTInvitational.com.

Coppell Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. Offering seasonal produce as well as a variety of other local and hand-made products. Coppell Farmers’ Market, 793 S Coppell Rd at Burns, Coppell. 972-393-1304.

CoppellFarmersMarket.org.

Nature Walk – 10am. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville.

972-219-7980.

Bluebirds – 10am-12pm. Hagerman NWR has 3 Bluebird trails and Refuge Manager Kathy Whaley will share info on attracting Bluebirds, houses and more. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, 6465

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Greenweavers Networking: Collin County – 6pm.

Businesses that market to the green and sustainable marketplace welcome to attend our monthly meetings to network and promote sustainable businesses.

Blue Mesa Grill, Hwy 121 & Dallas N Tollway, Plano. For details & mention North Texas edition of Natural Awakenings: 972-672-9779.

Water Demo – 7pm. Learn how ShinXen water can change your life and improve your health. Call for details and to reserve your spot. Evontis Water Headquarters, 783 N Grove Rd, Ste 101, Richardson. Arthur: 469-243-9172.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Mardi Gras! Galveston – Feb 10-21. Includes parade viewers shouting for beads, lively tunes played by colorful marching bands, 24 parades, 26 concerts,

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Refuge Rd, Sherman. RSVP: 903-786-2826.

Color Creations: Living Bouquets – 10:15am.

Learn how to create a unique collection of beautiful flowering plants that last both in homes and gardens.

Free. Calloway’s Nursery: Calloways.com.

Prayer Circle/Medicine Wheel – 11am-4pm.

Come join our family at the Medicine Wheel. Join us in Ceremony for peace and joy the world over.

RSVP required by Feb 7; space limited. Free. Four Feathers Trading Post, 3522 CR 2621, Caddo Mills.

Silverhawk & Prayerwalker: 214-288-9935.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 For The Love of Nature: Sierra Club Meeting – 7-8:30pm. Our Valentine’s Day program will feature mini-presentations highlighting contributions of our Club for the Love of Nature, plus an “open mic” period for people to express their love of nature.

Free. Dallas Sierra Club. REI Dallas, 4515 Lyndon B Johnson Frwy, Dallas. Kirk Miller: 972-699-1687.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Weston A. Price Chapter Meeting – 6-7:30pm.

Tired of confusing nutrition “trends?” Learn how to prepare and eat traditional foods like our ancestors. Everyone welcome, you don’t have to be a member to attend chapter meetings. Free. HealthWorks: A Creating Wellness Center, 2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano. RSVP suggested, Shari Miles: 972-612-1800.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Organic Pest Control Inside & Out: Organic Society Meeting – 6:30pm, seed & info exchange; 7pm, meeting. Talk by Ron Hall, radio gardening show host. Denton Organic Society. Denton Senior Center, 509 N Bell Ave, Denton. For details & mention North Texas edition of Natural Awakenings: 940-382-8551.

Dallas Down-River Club Meeting – 7pm. Canoeing, kayaking and rafting club. Roma’s, 7402 Greenville Ave, Dallas. 214-373-0500. More info, Dale Harris: 972-680-2727 or Dale_Harris@sbcglobal.net.

Creating Healthy Soil – 7-9pm. $5. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. More info, Deb Bliss: 972-769-4313 or DebB@Plano.gov.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 WOGA Classic – Feb 18-19. This international women’s gymnastics event showcases stars from

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around the world. Dr Pepper Arena and Frisco Conference Center, Frisco. For more information & to purchase tickets: WOGA.net.

Cross Timbers Trail Run – 6:30am. Offers a 50-mile run or relay, marathon, half-marathon and 5-mile run. Cross Timbers Trails, Juniper Point Park West Campground, Lake Texoma. For more info: CrossTimbersTrailRuns.com.

Fight For Air Climb – 7am, check-in; 8am, race. A vertical race to climb 53 floors of stairs. Fundraiser for the American Lung Association. Professionally timed and ranked by timing chips. $25, and participants must be registered and have a minimum of $100 in fundraising. Renaissance Tower, 1201 Elm St, Dallas.

214-631-5864 x 202. FightForAirClimb.org.

The Historic McKinney Farmers’ Market – 8am12pm. The winter markets continue. Veggies may be sparse, but we`ve got locally grown meat, eggs and honey. Chestnut Square Historic Village, 315 S Chestnut St, McKinney. 972-562-8790.

Great Backyard Bird Count – 8am-4pm. A day filled with “birdy” activities. The morning will be full of birding for the count and the afternoon will be filled with how-to’s and bird activities. Tyler State Park, 789 Park Rd 16, Tyler. 903-597-5338.

Kayak Power River Trip – 9am. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. Registration required: 972-219-7980.

Bird University: Great Backyard Bird Count – 9am-2pm. Join our experienced North Texas field ornithologists in this Citizen Science adventure for all ages. A 15-min bird census will be conducted at various locations on the TRAC property every hour on the hour. All findings will be submitted to GBBC. Free. Trinity River Audubon Center, 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. 214-398-TRAC. Lake Tawakoni’s 10-Year Anniversary – 9am6pm. A variety of activities for people of all ages.

Some activities include geocaching, dutchoven demonstrations, fishing, identifying artifacts and much more. Will be premiering our first movie in the park. Entrance fees waived entire day. Lake Tawakoni State Park, 10822 FM 2475, Wills Point.

903-560-7123.

Environmental Waste Services Open House – 9:30-11am. An opportunity to operate a real Recycling Truck, tour behind the scenes of some of our collection services and explore ways you can help manage our waste better in the City of Plano while also saving money. Free. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. 972-769-4130 Sustainable & Heat Hardy Series: Proper Water-

ing Workshop – 10-10:45am. With Leslie Finical Halleck, NHG General Manager. An in-depth workshop on working within the City of Dallas Water Restriction Guidelines, but still maintaining a beautiful, healthy landscape. Free. North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd, Dallas. 214-363-5316 Earth-Kind® Gardening: Green Gardening for Your Terrain – 10:15am. Special guest speakers will explain the Earth-Kind® landscaping principles and how to create beautiful and easy-care landscapes while conserving and protecting the environment.

Free. Calloway’s Nursery: Calloways.com.

Organic Vegetable Gardening – 10:30am12:30pm. Taught by Dallas County Master Gardener, John Hunt. Find out how easy organic can be. Free. Council Chambers, 255 Parkway Blvd, Coppell. 972-304-7043.

Homestead Open House – 12-3pm. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. 972-219-7980.

Geocaching – 3-4pm. Learn the basics of using a GPS for geocaching and how to get started. Purtis Creek State Park, Amphitheater, 14225 FM 316, Eustace. 903-425-2332.

Stargazing – 8:30-9:30pm. Make a star wheel and learn how to use it, learn about the solar system and view the night sky through a telescope. Weather permitting. Purtis Creek State Park, 14225 FM 316, Eustace. 903-425-2332.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Pharmanex® Biophotonic Antioxidant Scanning – Feb 20-23. 9am-12pm. You are only as healthy as what you absorb. With Dr. Jennifer Engels. Includes brief health intake, 2-min painless scan; no needles or labwork involved, results on the spot. 20-min timeslots for $20 (usually $30). The Wellness Room, 2845 Parkwood Blvd, Ste 200, Plano. For more info & to schedule appt: 972-567-8819.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Backpacking Basics – 7-8:30pm. Will cover backpacking essentials: choosing a pack; selecting proper clothing; and the right footwear; and understanding the basic gear you need to reach your destination. No experience necessary. Free. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd, Plano. Register: 972-985-2241.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Parenting Connection Group – 6-7:30pm. Meet other parents and learn how to supercharge your child’s health. What you do and don’t know about

nutrition, and how our bodies work can have a lasting effect. Free. HealthWorks: A Creating Wellness Center, 2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano. Register, Shari Miles: 972-612-1800.

Water Demo – 7pm. Learn how ShinXen water can change your life and improve your health. Call for details and to reserve your spot. Evontis Water Headquarters, 783 N Grove Rd, Ste 101, Richardson. Arthur: 469-243-9172.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Grow Up: Vertical Gardening with Trellises – 7-8pm. $5. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. More info, Deb Bliss: 972769-4313 or DebB@Plano.gov.

Geocaching Basics – 7-8:30pm. Learn strategies for finding a cache as well as how to hide one yourself.

A great activity for families. Free. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd, Plano. Register: 972-985-2241.

Your Child and the Social Media Dilemma – 7-8:30pm. Class will cover how to safely manage the overwhelming aspects and dangers of being connected through cell phone, internet, and Facebook. It will also cover cyber-bullying, “acting out” through postings, and pictures. Pre-registration required by Feb 22. $15. Willow Bend Academy, 2220 Coit Rd, Ste 500, Plano. Robin Bollinger: 972-599-7882.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Fort Worth Home & Garden Show – Feb 24-26.

2-8pm, Fri; 10am-6pm, Sat; 11am-6pm, Sun. Meet more than 400 experts in home, gardening, remodeling and home décor; learn about green energy products, and vacation and leisure services. $10/ adults, $8.50/seniors, free/14 & under. Discount coupons available online. Fort Worth Convention Center, 1201 Houston St, Fort Worth. TexasHomeAndGarden.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Gateway Trail Service Project – 9am-12pm. Help clear the trail and picking up trash. Work gloves, boots and clothing appropriate for the weather suggested; please bring water and sack lunch. After lunch join us for a hike on the Piedmont Trail.

Keeton Park at Keeton Golf Course. More info, REI Plano: 972-985-2241.

Coppell Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. Offering seasonal produce as well as a variety of other local and hand-made products. Coppell Farmers’ Market, 793 S Coppell Rd at Burns, Coppell. 972-393-1304.

CoppellFarmersMarket.org.

Waterwise Gardening: – 10:15am. Develop a waterwise landscape by plant selection, design, soil preparation, maintenance and other environmentally sustaining practices. Workshop encourages better habits for conserving our precious resources, lowering water bills and maintaining a productive garden.

Free. Calloway’s Nursery: Calloways.com.

Beginner Backpacking Class – 10:45am-4:45pm.

Ideal for those who want to learn all about backpacking and for those who want to refresh their backpacking knowledge and skills. $20/Sierra Club member, $30/nonmember. REI, 2nd Fl Guadalupe Peak Rm, 4515 LBJ Fwy, Dallas. Liz Wheelan: 214-368-2306.

Sustainable & Heat Hardy Series: Drought without Doubt – 1:30pm. With Johnette Taylor, Roundtree Landscaping. You can keep your garden green and still save on your water bill when you plant the proper plants and water the right way.

Free. North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd, Dallas. 214-363-5316.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Work Party – 11am-4pm. Come join our family and work on the land, create your talking stick or other medicine piece. The Many Faces people.

RSVP required by Feb 22; space limited. Free. Four Feathers Trading Post, 3522 CR 2621, Caddo Mills.

Silverhawk & Prayerwalker: 214-288-9935.

plan ahead FRIDAY, MARCH 2 North Texas Irish Festival: Harps & Fiddles – Mar 2-4. 6-11pm, Fri; 10:30am-11:30pm, Sat; 11:30am7:30pm, Sun. Includes 10 stages of live entertainment, a culinary stage, educational workshops, cultural presentations, booths of Celtic accessories, food and beverage vendors, and the Scottish Village.

Free entry before 7 pm, Mar 2. Discount tickets available online or at Tom Thumb stores. Free/ children 11 & under. Fair Park, 1200 S 2nd Ave, Fair Park, Dallas. NTIF.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 3 Dinosaur Valley State Park Campout – Mar 3-4.

Visit Dinosaur Valley State Park and see the preserved Dinosaur Tracks in the riverbed. After a day of fun, learn the basics of a beloved camping past time, Dutch Oven Cooking. All camping equipment need for the weekend included; food and other supplies not included. $65/family (up to 6). Dinosaur Valley State Park, 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose.

Register: 512-389-8903.

Bison Tour – 2-3pm. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville.

Registration required: 972-219-7980.

Vegetables in Containers and Organics: Patio Gardening – 10:15am. Master tips and tricks for combining vegetables and herbs in containers for a beautiful and bountiful urban garden. Free. Calloway’s Nursery: Calloways.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27

TUESDAY, MARCH 6

Is Your Drinking Water Killing You? – 6:307:30pm. Water quality can affect your health. Learn the 5 sources of problem water, how your health is affected by water, and what you can do to make your water safe and healthy again. RSVP required; space limited. Free. Cooking God’s Way, 2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano. Jeff Pearce: 972-379-7851.

Natural Weight Loss in a Toxic World – 6:307:30pm. Poisons and toxins are everywhere, in our food, water, air, homes, etc. Learn how this can affect your health and weight, and what you can do about it. RSVP required; space limited. Free.

Cooking God’s Way, 2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano.

Jeff Pearce: 972-379-7851.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28

FRIDAY, MARCH 9

Free “Dinner with the Doc” – 6:30-8:30pm. Join Hoogeveen Health Center for a free “Dinner with the Doc” and listen to a wide variety of health topics. We talk, we visit, we answer questions, then we eat. Did we mention the drawing at the end? Free.

Spring Creek Barbeque, 3623 Preston Rd at Warren Pkwy, Frisco. RSVP, Lynn Byrne: 972-335-7994.

Map & Compass Navigation Basics – 7-8:30pm.

Learn basic navigation skills using map and compass to find your way. Free. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd, Plano. Register: 972-985-2241.

54th Annual Rattlesnake Roundup – Mar 9-11.

8am-6pm, Fri & Sat; 8am-5pm, Sun. Sponsored by the Sweetwater Jaycees as a major fundraiser benefiting multiple organizations. Learn about rattlesnakes and their habitat through a variety of activities. Includes flea market, carnival, vendor booths, a rattlesnake cook-off, food and beverage vendors, and more. $7/adults, $4/10 & under. Nolan County Coliseum, 1699 Cypress St, Sweetwater. For more info: RattlesnakeRoundup.net.

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ongoingcalendar NOTE: All calendar events must be received by noon on the 9th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NA-NTX.com (within advertising section).

ongoing 5K Training – Join our 9 to 5 program and walk/ run a 5k in 9 weeks. For program info or to register: Luke’s Locker, 5505 Colleyville Blvd, Ste 120, Colleyville. 817-849-1562.

Adventure Guides & Princesses – A father-child program for grades K-3 designed to help foster a lifetime of understanding, relationship strengthening and companionship between father and child. $27/YMCA Family Members, $67/Community Members. Frisco Family YMCA, 3415 Main St, Frisco. Mark Hull: 972-335-3222 or MHull@ YMCADallas.org.

Afternoon Adventure Club – Times & days vary by location. Kids in kindergarten through third grade hear a story and learn about something new.

Then, get a chance to create a craft or conduct an experiment. Hands-on workshop offered weekly at each library location as follows: Tues, 4pm at North Branch Library, Thurs, 3:30pm at South Branch Library, Thurs, 4pm at Emily Fowler Central Library.

Free. For details: 940-349-8718.

Discovery Classes – Mon-Sat. Times vary by age, 4mo-3yrs. Teaches motor skills, develops coordina-

North Texas Irish Festival, in Dallas: March 2-4 tion and body control, and builds self-confidence and body strength. A Parent/Tot program that allows parents to help their child discover movements with music, games, and gymnastics. Achievers Gymnastics, 3014 S I-35 E, Denton. 940-484-4900.

First Aid Classes, CPR & Babysitter Training – Various days. Monthly at various branches.

For specific info on cost, space availability, times: YMCADallas.org.

sunday Sunday Morning Rides – Various start times and lengths. Richardson Bikemart, Southeast corner of Campbell Rd & Coit Rd, in the front parking lot.

Sam Montag: 972-231-3993.

Group Bike Ride – 7:30am. 14-16 mph, no drop ride (20 mile). CK Sports, 8880 State Hwy 121, Ste 164, McKinney. For details & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214-383-0088.

Visit the Cats – 11am-6pm, Sun & Sat. A selfguided tour to learn about the animals that call InSync home. Helpful volunteers available to answer any questions. $10/adult, $7/senior (65+), $7/child (4-12), free/under 4. In-Sync Exotics, 3430 Skyview Dr, Wylie. 972-442-6888. InSyncExotics.com.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group – 2-3pm.

3rd Sun. Get info on local resources, education and support. Open to anyone whose loved one may be affected by dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Autumn Leaves of McKinney, 175 Plateau Dr, McKinney.

972-542-0606. ZSmith@AutumnLeavesLiving.com.

Free Yoga – 3-4pm. 2nd Sun. All welcome. Inspire Yoga Studio, 1401 Shoal Creek, Ste 268, Highland Village. 972-505-9764.

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Transition Dallas Meeting – 6pm. 4th Sun. A group of people interested in learning to live resiliently and sustainably within our neighborhoods. At many of our meetings we have re-skilling sessions, so we can revive the skills that enabled our grandparents to be self-sufficient within their communities. For meeting location & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: TransitionDallas@gmail.com.

monday

Live Animals of the World: A Conservation Exhibit – Encourages visitors to take a role in conserving nature. Native and non-native animals. $9/adults, $6/children 3-12 & seniors, free/children under 2. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. 972-562-5566.

HeardMuseum.org.

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Primitive Survival Club – 3-6pm. Last Sun. Includes: learning of survival skills, fellowship of people of like interests, service back to the camp, nature connecting afternoon. Camp Tonkawa Outdoor Learning Center, 1036 County Rd, Collinsville.

Cost & more info: 940-440-8382.

Non-Medical, Performance Enhancement Training Demo – By appt. Weekly, Mon-Fri. Learn how Interactive Metronome training is used for those with Learning Differences (ADD/ADHD, Sensory Integration, Autism Spectrum), serious athletes looking to improve their game, and adults and professionals wanting to better their day-to-day.

Free demo appt. Willow Bend Academy, 2220 Coit Rd, Ste 500, Plano. 972-599-7882. WillowBend Academy.com.

Interactive Metronome Training Demo – M-F, 8:30am-5pm by appt. Find out how IM can help improve one’s performance at school, on the job, or in chosen sport. Free. Willow Bend Academy, 2220 Coit Rd, Ste 500, Plano. 972-599-7882.

WillowBendAcademy.com.

Indoor Park – 10-11am. Mon & Fri. The perfect place to bring little ones when it’s cold outside.

Ages: up to 5yrs. $9/visit or $44/8 visit punch card.

Achievers Gymnastics, 3014 S I-35 E, Denton.

940-484-4900.

Massage for Mom –10am-4pm. $10 off any massage for North Texas Natural Awakenings readers. One-hour Hot Stone, Swedish or Pregnancy massage, reg. price $55/hr. Massage Space, 7000 Independence Pkwy at Legacy, Plano. Reservations required: 972-612-5363.

Overeaters Anonymous – 12pm. Weekly Mon-Fri. A 12-step recovery program for compulsive eating.

Prairie Creek Baptist Church, 3201 W 15th St, Plano. 972-238-0333.

Ask Emily: Drop-In Technology Help – 3-5pm. 1st Mon. Library staff and volunteers on hand to answer your questions. Can help with specific problems with Microsoft Office applications, surfing the Web, using the library databases or catalog, downloading audio or eBooks. No registration necessary. Bring your portable device or flash drive containing the document working on. Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St, Denton. 940-349-8752.

Muayi-Thai Kickboxing & Aikido Class – 6pm, Muayi-Thai; 7:15pm, Aikido. Move your body, empty your mind, center your emotions. Agatsu Integral Dojo, Sunstone Yoga Academy, 4540 Beltway Dr, Addison. 214-531-0129.

Beekeeping Meeting – 6:30pm. 2nd Mon. Beginner to experienced keepers welcome, ages 8-80. Free.

Collin County Hobby Beekeepers Association meets at Heard-Craig Center, 205 W Hunt St, McKinney.

972-843-8084. CCHBA.org.

Native Plant Society Meeting – 7pm. 3rd Mon.

Guest speakers on topics related to native plants and habitats. Free. Dallas Chapter Native Plant Society.

REI Outdoor Equipment Store, 4515 LBJ Frwy, Dallas. 866-527-4918.

Yoga Series – 6:30-7:30pm. Power yoga and yoga for runners. Different content each month. Luke’s Locker, 959 Garden Park Dr, Allen. Details: 469854-6244.

Yoga – 7pm. Mon & Wed. This donation class is great for beginners or those wanting to try Yoga for the first time in a smaller setting. Luke’s Locker, 5505 Colleyville Blvd, Ste 120, Colleyville. 817849-1562.

Holistic Chamber of Commerce – 6:45pm; 7pm, meeting. 2nd Tues. We are a growing network of holistic professionals, practitioners and businesses created to encourage and promote a healthy lifestyle, and support the professionals and businesses that make holistic living possible. Join us for holistic business education and networking. Speakers vary.

Shambhala Wellness Center, 215 E University Dr, Denton. John D’Amanda: 940-365-5888.

Open Stage – 7pm-12am. An opportunity to practice performance on a stage with an engaged and supportive audience. Performers sign up to show off their skills in a 5-min time slot, which we film and share with the performer to help hone their craft.

After variety show, practice any and all types of performing art. $5 cover, 21+. House of Poets, 580 W Arapaho Rd, Ste 199, Richardson. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214-494-0952.

tuesday Healthy Eating Tours – 10am & 4pm. Learn how to make healthier choices, using our ANDI scoring system. Learn how to read labels; build menus around plant-based foods low in fat to ensure highly nutrient dense meals. Whole Foods Market, 2201 Preston Rd, Plano. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 972-612-6729.

First Aid Naturally – Thru Feb. 10am-12pm. Give your heart to health this New Year by learning basic natural first aid remedies with Alicia Cotilla, who brings over twenty years experience in the Holistic Healing Sciences and Reiki. Learn how the body works, define health for yourself, learn what health means, what goes into a natural first aid kit, and a bit about the healing methodologies (homeopathy, ayurvedic, Chinese and how they differ from alopathic healing). Tour a health food store. Get informative hand outs and lots of “show and tell.” $25/person/2-hr class. Nurturing Seeds Studio, 7404 Bolo Ln, Flower Mound. Alicia: 817-504-4420.

Dallas Museum of Art – 11am-3pm. 1st Tues. Programming designed specifically for children age 5 and under and their families, but all ages welcome.

Art-making activities, story times, performances, and gallery activities. Free. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas. 214-922-1200.

Twisted Stitchers Knitting Book Club – 4:30pm.

1st Tues. Needlecrafters ages 12-18. Bring knitting needles and listen to teen audio books while knitting projects for charity and personal use. Emily Fowler Library, 502 Oakland St, Denton. For titles & dates: 940-349-8718.

Collin County Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas Meeting – 7pm. 2nd Tues. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. More info: 972-380-4030.

HeardMuseum.org.

DFW Greenweavers – 7pm. 2nd Tues. Networking for professionals and companies who are greenminded, eco-friendly or wishing to become more so. $1. For location details, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214-378-8686.

PTAS Chapter Meetings – 7pm, refreshments; 7:30pm, meeting & program. 4th Tues, Sept-Nov & Jan-May. All meetings and other activities open to everyone. PTAS offers interesting programs and wonderful guest speakers at our meetings that bring a great variety of expertise and excitement to the membership. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. Program details: PrairieAndTimbers.org.

Public Knowledge – 7pm. 1st Tues. Adults celebrating brains and brews through conversation and presenters from diverse fields in science and history.

Different bar or restaurant location each month. For location details: FWMuseum.org/PublicKnowledge.

Sierra Club Meeting – 7-8:30pm. 2nd Tues.

Monthly lectures. Free. REI Dallas, Guadalupe Peak Rm, 4515 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy, Dallas.

972-699-1687.

Dance, Dance, Dance – 7-9:15pm. Dance hosts available to dance with unescorted ladies. Refreshments served. $5. Plano Senior Recreation Center, 401 W 16th St, Plano. Details: 972-941-7155 or PlanoSeniorCenter.org.

Cirque Out – 8-10pm. A weekly circus-skill enthusiast work out. Work on your hooping, spinning, juggling and general tomfoolery. Nice weather location: The Richardson Civic Center, 411 W Arapaho Rd, Richardson. Bad weather location: The Peace Pipe Hookah Lounge, 580 W Arapaho, Ste 181, Richardson. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214-494-0952.

wednesday Dallas Greendrinks – 2nd Wed. Meet for happy hour with other eco-conscious people. No cover, buy own drinks. Location TBD. For details & mention North Texas edition of Natural Awakenings: DallasGreendrinks@yahoo.com.

Christian Women Business Networking – 11am1pm. 1st Wed. Fellowship and networking with other professional Christian women, to draw us closer together. We meet monthly over lunch, for prayer, inspiration and a “Spiritual Vitamin.” Prestonwood Country Club, 15909 Preston Rd, Dallas. For reservation & details, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 972-704-3898.

Frisco Noon Lions Club – 12-1pm. 2nd & 4th Wed. Friendships, fun and fulfilling. Come share the joy of community involvement and fellowship while helping make the world a better place. Designed for busy small business owners and professional and works well for the time conscious individual (stay at home mom, student, retiree). Meetings featuring informative speakers and hands-on training are held at local Frisco restaurants. All welcome, ages 18 and up. Free. Buy own lunch if wish to eat. For details, Brandy Miles: 972-335-2487 or Brandy@ MarilynKuhlman.com.

Art History Brown Bag Series – 12:30-1:30pm.

1st Wed. Presented by Annie Royer. A look at the “isms” including cubism, romanticism, modernism and impressionism. How did one “ism” influence the next? How did artists influence and challenge each other? Series will heighten one’s appreciation of art and provide insight into the mind of the artist.

Free. Heard-Craig Carriage House located, 205 1/2 W Hunt St, McKinney. 972-569-6909.

Tween & Teen Game Day – 3:45-5pm. Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Guitar Hero and many other Wii & Play Station games. Free. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton.

940-349-8752.

Greenweavers Networking: Collin County – 6pm.

2nd Wed. Businesses that market to the green and sustainable marketplace welcome to attend our monthly meetings to network and promote sustainable businesses. Blue Mesa Grill, Hwy 121 & Dallas N Tollway, Plano. For details & mention North Texas edition of Natural Awakenings: 972-672-9779.

Clinic Series – 6-7pm. 2nd Wed. Different content each month. Example clinics: proper shoe fittings, nutritional information, injury prevention, Garmin, Polar, Nike watch technical sessions. Call for details. Luke’s Locker, 959 Garden Park Dr, Allen.

469-854-6244.

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Fitness Workshops – 6-7pm. 2nd Wed. New topic each month to help one achieve one’s fitness goals.

Free. Luke’s Locker at Watter’s Creek Village, Allen. 469-854-6244.

The Colony History Project Committee – 7pm.

3rd Thurs. Help cultivate and preserve The Colony’s rich history. The Colony Public Library, 6800 Main St, The Colony. 972-625-1900.

Adults with Special Needs Cooking Classes – 6-8pm. 1st & 3rd Wed. Call for details. Space limited. $10. Market Street Culinary School, 6100 Eldorado Pkwy, McKinney. Reserve spot now & mention Natural Awakenings North Texas: 972548-5167.

Social Run – 7pm. Need someone to talk to while you run or just hold you accountable? Join us for our weekly social run; all paces welcome.

Luke’s Locker, 5505 Colleyville Blvd, Ste 120, Colleyville. 817-849-1562.

Fowler Foodie Book Club – 7-8pm. 3rd Thurs. Pull up a chair and join us for a lively discussion of food related books. Monthly book selections a mix of fiction and non-fiction, with a pinch of cook-books for flavor. Free. Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland, Denton. Laura Douglas: 940-349-8752.

Luke’s Locker Tech Clinics – 6:30pm. 2nd Wed. New topic each month. 959 Garden Park Dr, Ste T200, Allen. 469-854-6244.

Organic Society Meeting – 6:30pm, seed & info exchange; 7pm, meeting. 3rd Wed. Denton Organic Society. Denton Senior Center, 509 N Bell Ave, Denton. 940-382-8551.

Teen Anime Club – 6:30pm. 3rd Wed. The Colony Public Library, Conference Rm, 6800 Main St, The Colony. 972-625-1900.

Animanga – 6:30-8pm. 3rd Wed. For teens grades 6-12. Watch anime? Read Manga? Draw fan art?

Share your love of all things anime/manga. Snacks provided. Free. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. 940-349-8752.

Bedtime Stories – 7pm. All ages. Come to story time prepared for lifelong learning and a barrel of fun. Free ticket at 2nd floor desk. A parent or caregiver must accompany each child. Frisco Public Library, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd, Frisco.

972-292-5669.

Water Demo – 7pm. 2nd & 4th Wed. Learn how ShinXen water can change your life and improve your health. Call for details and to reserve your spot.

Evontis Water Headquarters, 783 N Grove Rd, Ste 101, Richardson. Arthur: 469-243-9172.

Yoga – 7pm. Also Mon. This donation class is great for beginners or those wanting to try Yoga for the first time in a smaller setting. Luke’s Locker, 5505 Colleyville Blvd, Ste 120, Colleyville. 817-849-1562.

thursday Social Run – 6am. Run/walk a total of 45 mins and then come in and enjoy coffee and bagels before heading to work. Luke’s Locker, 959 Garden Park Dr, Allen. 469-854-6244.

Group Social Run – 6:45am. Varied paces. CK Sports, 8880 State Hwy 121, Ste 164, McKinney.

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Lake Texoma Wilderness Run: Feb. 18 For details & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214-383-0088.

Free Admission & Wildlife Program – 9am-9pm.

3rd Thurs. Admission and parking free. 7:15pm, Special Program: Saving Our Birds, The work of the Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Trinity River Audubon Center, 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. 214-309-5801.

Lunch Hour Yoga – 11:30am-12:20pm. Class utilizes the Franklin Method and Smart Spine along with various types of yoga for relaxation and rejuvenation. $15. Pilates for Life, 103 W Belmont Dr, Allen. 214-704-3070.

CPR Training – 6-8pm. American Heart Training Center with 125 trained instructors. Texas CPR Training, 4013 Carrizo, Plano. 214-770-6872.

TexasCPR.com.

Dallas Organic Gardening Club – 6:30pm, refreshments; 7pm, meeting. 4th Thurs. Free. REI, 4515 LBJ Freeway, Dallas. DOGC.org.

Teen Writers Group – 6:30pm. 3rd Thurs. Join other teen writers to discuss projects, get ideas and suggestions for publication, and for fellowship and fun. Free. The Colony Public Library, Conference Rm, 6800 Main St, The Colony. 972-625-1900 x 3.

Yoga Series – 6:30-7:30pm. Different content each month. Luke’s Locker, 959 Garden Park Dr, Allen.

Details: 469-854-6244.

Dallas Down-River Club Meeting – 7pm. 3rd Thurs. Canoeing, kayaking and rafting club. Roma’s, 7402 Greenville Ave, Dallas. 214-373-0500. More info, Dale Harris: 972-680-2727 or Dale_Harris@ sbcglobal.net.

Men’s Only Pilates – 8pm. Class utilizes all the Pilates equipment. $15. Pilates for Life, 103 W Belmont Dr, Allen. 214-704-3070.

friday Friday Focus – 8am. Networking opportunities.

Enjoy a cup of java and learn more about business community. IHOP in The Colony, Meeting Rm, 4801 State Hwy 121, The Colony. 972-625-8027.

First Friday Movie – 3:30pm. 1st Fri. Featuring a new movie each month. South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Ln, Denton. 940-349-8761.

LEGO Builders Club – 4pm. 3rd Fri. Drop in and get creative by building with the library’s LEGOs. A different theme for each month. Ages 6 & up. Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland, Denton.

940-349-8752. $5 Happy Hour Yoga Class – 4:30-5:30pm. All levels Vinyasa flow class. All welcome. Inspire Yoga Studio, 1401 Shoal Creek, Ste 268, Highland Village. 972-505-9764.

Free Community Yoga – 6-7pm. 1st Fri. Suitable for all levels. Learn to breathe, relax and renew.

Space limited. Free. Transform U Fitness, 1565 W Main St, Lewisville. Pre-registration required: 972-849-9666.

Crow After Dark – 6pm-12am. 3rd Fri, except Jan & Dec. Enlighten your night and experience Asia after dark. Enjoy music, dance, films, tours, and more. Free. Crow Asian Art Museum, 2010 Flora St, Dallas. 214-979-6430.

Acoustic Friday – 7pm. Weekly open jam and song circle. All acoustic instruments and levels welcome.

All music genres welcome. Free. Visual Art League Art Gallery, Lewisville. 972-420-9393.

Open Gym – 7-8:30pm. Enjoy playing in the gym or practicing one’s skills. Ages 7-17. $11/nonmember, $9/member. Achievers Gymnastics, 3014 S I-35 E, Denton. 940-484-4900.

Live Music – 7-9pm. Live music and delicious treats: blended or hot coffee, delicious hot cocoa, Collin County’s award-winning specialty bakery treats, hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream, fresh baked cookies, cakes and bakery sweets. Free. For details & to confirm happening, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: Coffee N Cream, 11660 Legacy Dr, Frisco, 214-705-9600; and 190 E Stacy Rd, Allen, 972-678-2626.

Community Dance – 7-9:30pm. 2nd & 4th Fri. Live Music, varied styles. Fun for all ages 21 and up. $5/ person Denton Senior Center, 509 North Bell Ave, Denton. For details & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 940-349-8720.

Fourth Friday Drum Circle – Thru Sept. 7-10pm.

4th Fri. Everyone, including children and families, are welcome. Drums and rhythm instruments available. Drum and dance into the evening. Free.

Mitchell Park, West Virginia & Church St, McKinney. 214-641-0782.

Square and Round Dance for Fitness and Fun – 7:30pm. 1st & 3rd Fri. Individuals and couples of all ages welcome. Texas Reelers, 820 W Arapaho, Richardson. Details: 972-416-2311 or 972-699-0934.

saturday Operation Kindness – 3rd Sat. No Kill animal shelter brings animals for adoption. Weather permitting. Whole Foods Market, outside store, 2201 Preston Rd, Plano. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 972-612-6729.

Saturday Morning Rides – Various start times and lengths. Richardson Bikemart, Southeast corner of Campbell Rd & Coit Rd, in the front parking lot.

Sam Montag: 972-231-3993.

Small Fry Sports Classes – A skills and developmental sports class for boys and girls ages 3 & 4.

Each month offers a different sport which allows children to develop new skills and gain exposure to all sports offered at the Y. Parents participate alongside their child during this fun and active class. $20/YMCA Family Member, $40/everyone else.

Frisco Family YMCA, 3415 Main St, Frisco. Trey Gilmore: 214-297-9622.

Group Bike Ride – 7am. 15-22 mph, no drop ride (25-mile loops). CK Sports, 8880 State Hwy 121, Ste 164, McKinney. For details, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214-383-0088.

Recycling: Electronics – 9-11am. The city of Plano encourages residents to bring all old electronic devices (not being used) to this site for proper disposal.

For details, location & mention North Texas edition of Natural Awakenings: 972-769-4150.

Free One-Hour Seminars – 10am. Topics: gardening, beekeeping, rainwater collection, goat milking, poultry. Ploughshare Institute for Sustainable Living, 7781 Gholson Rd, Waco. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 254-754-9663.

Second Saturday for Youth – 10-11:30am. For youngsters aged 4-10; children 6 & under must

be accompanied by a parent or other responsible adult. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, A/V Classroom, 6465 Refuge Rd, Sherman. Reservations necessary: 903-786-2826.

Family Story Time – 10:30am. All ages. Come to story time prepared for lifelong learning and a barrel of fun. Free ticket at 2nd floor desk. A parent or caregiver must accompany each child. Frisco Public Library, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd, Frisco.

972-292-5669.

Kid’s Fish – 11am-1pm. Ages 4-11. The opportunity to go outside to our pond and do some live fishing (weather permitting). If bad weather will have a scavenger hunt. Free. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, 2501 Bass Pro Dr, Grapevine. 972-724-2018.

Parkour Clinic – 11am-1pm. 2nd & 4th Sat. Indoor parkour and free running instructional classes open to all ages and abilities. Learn more challenging techniques in a padded environment. Release of liability waiver is required prior to participating. $15. LIFE Cirque. Elite Champion Gymnastics, 2621 Summit Ave, Ste 300, Plano. 214-450-3286.

Parkour in the Park – 11am-1pm. 1st & 3rd Sat until it’s too hot. Parkour and free running exhibition and instructional happening open to all ages and abilities. Free. LIFE Cirque. Robert E. Lee Park, 3400 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas. 214-450-3286.

Visit the Cats – 11am-6pm. See Sun listing. In-Sync Exotics, 3430 Skyview Dr, Wylie. 972-442-6888.

InSyncExotics.com.

Homestead Open House – 12-3pm. 3rd Sat. Time subject to change during heat of summer. The Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area is home to several historic structures, most notably the Minor-Porter Log House, which dates to about 1869. Volunteers on hand to guide visitors through the structures and answer questions in this informal tour. Visitors welcome to arrive at any time during the open hours and tour at their own pace. Regular admission to LLELA: $5/person; free/age 5 & under. No additional charge for tour. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. 972-219-7980.

Kayak down the Elm Fork – 12-3pm. 3rd Sat. Whether have lots of river time under your belt or have never set foot in a kayak, you’re welcome here.

Kayak Power provides equipment and instruction followed by a 6-mile trip down the Elm Fork to a shuttle vehicle. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. Reservation required: 214-669-1663.

Heard Nature Photographers Club – 1:30pm.

2nd Sat. Speakers and discussions. Topics include how-to and technique discussions and travelogue presentations. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. More info: 972-462-7314.

SpinFest – 3-7pm. 3rd Sat. A free, open event hosted by Creative Motion to explore circus skills with the public. Learn to juggle, hula hoop, or spin poi, staves, or flags. Heights Park Arapaho Rd at Floyd Rd, Richardson. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214-494-0952.

Sunstone Yoga Community Open House – 5-9pm.

3rd Sat each month (in Apr the 2nd Sat) Sunstone Yoga Academy opens its doors to the community.

Event hosts and highlights many of our community practices, members and partners. Free. Sunstone Yoga Academy, 4540 Beltway Dr, Addison. Jillian

Navejas: 214-764-2119.

Sunday Mountain Bike Group Ride – 6pm. Open to all levels. Informal and leaderless. Food, fun and riding. Food served after the riding. Location changes weekly. For details & location: BBishop@ Bikemart.com.

Parents Night Out – 6-11pm. 1st & 3rd Sat. Drop the kids off for tons of games. Pizza and drinks served. $15 with pre-registration, $20 at door.

Corinth Gymnastics, 1402 N Corinth St, Corinth.

Details, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 940-498-4386.

Live Music – 7-9pm. Live music and delicious treats: blended or hot coffee, delicious hot cocoa, Collin County’s award-winning specialty bakery treats, hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream, fresh baked cookies, cakes and bakery sweets. Free. For details & to confirm happening, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: Coffee N Cream, 11660 Legacy Dr, Frisco, 214-705-9600; and 190 E Stacy Rd, Allen.

972-678-2626.

classifieds For fees and info on placing classifieds, email publisher@NA-NTX.com. Deadline is noon on the 9th of the month.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY CURRENTLY PUBLISHING NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES – For sale in Birmingham, AL; North Central FL; Lexington, KY; Asheville, NC; Santa Fe/Albuquerque, NM; Cincinnati, OH; Tulsa, OK; Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA; Northeast PA; Columbia, SC; Southwest VA. Call for details 239-530-1377.

EARN EXTRA INCOME – WORK FROM HOME – The Health, Wellness & Nutrition Revolution is Booming. Part or full time. No start-up fees. Free Training. Call Ron today at 970-310-4084.

HELP WANTED SALESPEOPLE WANTED – Earn a generous commission and unlimited income selling ads for Natural Awakenings North Texas. Straight commission sales experience required. Relationshiporiented sales; must like talking to people. Open territories in Denton, Collin and Grayson counties.

Full-time and part-time. Will train. Please send resume to Publisher@NA-NTX.com.

NUTRITION ARE NON-ORGANIC, SYNTHETICALLY MADE VITAMINS GOOD? – Learn more about the Nobel Prize winning science of FoodMatrix delivery system – proven better retention, absorption, and whole food nutrients for the body. Call Darlene today at 903-885-2787.

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE HEALTHCARE OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE – Located in Town & Country Office Park at Hwy. 121 and Legacy Drive in Frisco. Available now.

Call 214-662-2267.

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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 publisher@NA-NTX. com to request our media kit. ( Leaf symbol indicates green business. Dollar symbol represents businesses offering coupons through NACoupons.com)

CHIROPRACTIC DR. AMY ST. JOHN, D.C., LMT

Serendipity Health & Wellness 3900 W 15th St, Ste 506, Plano 75075 214-801-0741 • SerendipityWellness.net Relieving pain head to toe, whether caused by injury, stress or fatigue.

I offer personalized care, private appointments and therapeutic massage. See ad, page 18.

COLON CLEANSING CLEANSE THYSELF PURELY

200 North Mill St, Lewisville 75057 Lewisville: Wendy 469-358-9847 Ft. Worth: Dawn 817-483-2212 ColonicsInDallas.com A colonic session flushes the intestine and removes fecal matter that coats the walls and crevices of the intestine. It's a safe and easy procedure with disposable speculums. Visit our website for more information. Ask about other services such as oxy spa, infrared, lymphatic drainage, foot ion, body scan and breast thermography.

COMPREHENSIVE HEALTHCARE 2317 Coit Road, Ste B, Plano 75075 972-612-1800 Whole body & lifestyle healthcare rejuvenating your body from the inside out.

Comprehensive healthcare— naturally. See ad, page 16.

EDUCATION WILLOW BEND ACADEMY

2220 Coit Rd, Ste 500, Plano 75075 972-599-7882 • WillowBendAcademy.com An accredited, educational alternative that offers individualized, mastery-based instruction for students grades 4-12. Master Learning.

Master Life. Experienced Interactive Metronome provider.

North Texas

ECOMAIDS

18352 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas 75287 214-382-2644 High quality green cleaning service for homes and businesses. See ad, page 9.

GREEN GARMENT CARE OXXO CARE CLEANERS 5110 Eldorado Pkwy, Frisco 75034 214-705-7739 • OxxoUsa.com Eco-friendly garment care cleaners. Convenient 24hour drop-off and pick-up system. Odorless process leaves clothes brighter and retaining their correct size and shape without “dry cleaning” smell.

GREEN PEST CONTROL NATURAL PEST SOLUTIONS 214-763-2758 • GuysInGreen.com

Eco-friendly residential and commercial pest control using botanical products. See ads, page 5 and 15.

HAIR SALON HAIR COLOR STUDIOS

HEALTHWORKS

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9200 E. Lebanon Rd, Ste 32, Frisco 75035 214-436-4955 • HairColorStudios.com If healthy hair is your passion, then Hair Color Studios is your dream salon. With our organic product lines to serve your healthy hair demands.

Our new Nayo Hair Color uses natural extracts in their Yoghurt line that preserves the hair structure keeping it voluminous. Ask about our free color consultation.

HEALTHY COOKING COOKING GOD’S WAY

2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano 75075 972-379-7851 Naturally healthy cooking and nutrition classes, nutritional consulting, detox programs, health workshops. See ad, page 7.

HEALTHY DINING THE SALAD STOP

3685 Preston Rd, Frisco 75034 972-377-7867 Fresh and nutritious, locally grown food.

HEART HEALTH MOBILE CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH SCREENING

Tim Stroud C.H.S.; DPA/HRV Technician 214-502-7515 • BetterHealthForTexas.com High blood pressure readings are not enough. The FDA-approved Digital Pulsewave Analyzer reads arterial elasticity, plaque buildup and determines the biological age of your arteries. It’s quick, easy, painless and we come to your home or office. Schedule a screening today for yourself, your family or employees. Discounts for families and groups. Call to schedule your screening or Heart Health event today.

HERBS & CHINESE MEDICINE GREAT WALL ORIENTAL MEDICAL CENTER 1312 Village Creek Dr, Plano 75093 972-732-7804

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY DENTAL ARTS OF PLANO

Dr. Nevein Amer, DDS 4701 West Park Blvd, Ste 201, Plano 75093 972-985-4450 • DentalArtsofPlano.com Dr. Amer specializes in cosmetic and Holistic dentistry including mercury-free fillings and the safe removal of old mercury-based fillings, metal-free crowns, digital x-rays, help for sleep apnea and TMJ, veneers and Invisalign, the clear alternative to braces. Her Holistic approach involves looking at the entire person during evaluation, and always talking with you about the material to be used in your mouth.

See ad, page 17.

HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE JENNIFER ENGELS, MD

2845 Parkwood Blvd, Ste 200, Plano 75093 972-567-8819 • TheWellnessRoom.net Tired of belly fat? Frustrated by fad diets and lack of energy? Let me help you clean up your diet, improve your exercise regimen, find ways to de-stress and get better sleep. Let me be your guide to better health through improved nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle modification. See ad, page 21.

INTERNAL MEDICINE CENTENNIAL MEDICAL ASSOCIATES 4401 Coit Rd, Ste 409, Frisco 75035 972-377-8695

RECUPERATE MASSAGE

Life Is Too Short To Go Without a Massage. Specializing in relieving chronic pain issues and tight muscles. Swedish, Deep Tissue, Prenatal, Trigger Point and TMJ Facial massages. By appointment only. Online booking available.

Highest ethical and clinical standards of care while providing exceptional attention to every patient.

KID FIT – KID FUN SPORTS TRAINING KURT THOMAS GYMNASTICS 10825 John W Elliott Frisco 75034 • 214-872-4646

Gymnastics training for preschool to competitive levels. See ad, page 11.

WINKIDS SPORTS & LEARNING CENTER 3000 Waketon Rd, Flower Mound 75028 972-355-9988

WinKids Sports & Learning Center offers gymnastics, martial arts, swimming, dance, cheerleading, music, unique Birthday parties and so much more!

MARKETS SPICE BAZAAR

4681 Ohio Dr, Frisco 75035 214-618-3175 Indian grocery store.

MASSAGE 3T’s (TJ’s Terrific Touch)

469-237-4289 TJ4ttts.com • TJ4ttts@yahoo.com Specializing in Swedish massage for overall body relaxation and deep tissue massage for tense knotted muscles, an affordable 3T’s massage can help relieve stress commonly associated with a hectic lifestyle. See ad, page 42.

Coming in March

6101 A Windhaven Pkwy Salon Boutique, Rm 12, Plano 75093 214-437-6920 Recuperate.MassageTherapy.com

NEUROFEEDBACK THE SAMS CENTER

Dr. Marvin Sams 972-612-0160 • GreatBrain.com The Sams Center specializes in evidence based, non-drug therapy for ADD/ADHD, learning issues, chronic Depression and Anxiety, Asperger’s and Autism, epilepsy, Bipolar, and OCD. Quantitative EEG (computerized brain wave analysis) detects and defines the neurological issues; NeuroMatrix Neural Efficiency Trainingtm safely remediates and optimizes brain function. Find out more today. See ads, pages 10 and 14.

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS ECO WELLNESS

1404 W Hebron Pkwy, Ste 114 Carrollton 75010 972-492-5995 • Eco-Wellness.net A nutrition boutique that carries the highest quality products made from all natural or organic ingredients. High-quality dietary supplements exceeding FDA’s cGMP standards.

ONLINE BUSINESSES/SERVICES PAPERHOUND.COM paperhound.com

Affordable, high-resolution digital reproductions of original antique maps and biblical prints from 1550 to 1850. See ad, inside front cover.

CLASSIC NAILS & SPA

6910 Windhaven Pkwy, The Colony 75056 214-483-6006 Nails, waxing, facials and massage.

MASSAGE SPACE

7000 Independence Pkwy, Ste 180 Plano 75025 972-612-5363 • Massage-Space.com Seven different types of massage therapy for rejuvenation and energy. See ad, page 6.

Changing the Way America Eats Natural Awakenings’

Food & Garden issue explores fresh ways to eat well on a budget.

OUTDOOR GEAR & EDUCATION REI

2424 Preston Rd, Plano 75093 • 972-985-2241 Quality outdoor gear and clothing with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call

469-633-9549

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PEDIATRICS HEALTHY KIDS PEDIATRICS

4851 Legacy Dr, Ste 301, Frisco, 75034 972-294-0808 • HealthyKidsPediatrics.com Where your child’s health is our passion! Offering a full range of pediatric services integrating conventional and natural medicine for your child’s optimal health. See ad, page 28.

PLAYCARE ADVENTURE KIDS PLAYCARE

690 Parker Square, Flower Mound 75028 972-899-2060 And 1401 Shoal Creek, Ste 140, Highland Village 75077 972-899-2060

TOTAL WIND & SOLAR

Offices and service throughout D/FW 866-631-5934 Total Wind & Solar offers consultation, design, installation and service of alternative energy and rainwater harvesting systems based on your actual needs. Serving the North Texas-D/FW area.

SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT ST. PHILIP’S EPISCOPAL

6400 Stonebrook Pkwy, Frisco 75034 214-387-4700 • StPhilipsFrisco.org Sunday services, community programs, job ministry, preschool, and St. Philip’s Academy “K” class.

Drop-in child care and entertainment center.

RESTAURANTS SHANDIZ MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & MARKET 4013 West Parker Rd, Plano 75093 972-943-8885

Halal meats, fresh produce, groceries and flat bread baked on-site.

SMOOTHIES SMOOTHIE KING OF DENTON 1601 Brinker Rd, Denton 76208 940-484-5464

Great-tasting smoothies using the highest quality nutritional ingredients for a healthy snack alternative.

SOLAR & ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOLAR COMMUNITY

SolarCommunity.com 1-87-SOLAR-NRG (877-652-7674) Ask us how our Solar Community programs can save you money! See ad, back cover.

TAILORING & ALTERATION SERVICES AUTUMN STITCH

279 W Main St, Frisco 75034 972-712-1727 Tailoring, custom clothing, monogramming, draperies and shoe repair.

TRIBAL AMERICAN INDIAN CRAFTS FOUR FEATHERS TRADING POST

3522 CR 2621, Caddo Mills 75135 214-288-9935 • FourFeathersTradingPost.net Experience the world of Tribal American Indians hosted by Silverhawk & Prayerwalker. The store offers tribal art created by local artisans and worldrenowned Native American artists. Educational seminars. We practice traditional ways, including prayer and drumming circles, sweat lodges, work parties, medicine wheels, etc. If you're seeking a spiritual path following ancient American tribal ways, ask about our community.

WATER EVONTIS

783 N Grove Rd, Ste 101, Richardson 75081 855-Evontis (386-6847) • MyEvontis.com ShinXen water is ionized, alkaline water rich in antioxidants and oxygen abundant. Evontis offers a range of quality water ionization systems built to last. See ad, page 20.

WATERSEDGE STRUCTURED WATER Twenty First Century Health 972-855-8711 TwentyFirstCenturyHealth.com

Better health through state-of-the-art water.

Cutting edge technology. Call us or visit our website to learn more about how improving your home’s water can improve your health. See ad, page 13.

YOGA SCHOOL INSPIRE YOGA SCHOOL

1401 Shoal Creek, Ste 268 Highland Village 75077 • 972-505-9764 InspireYogaStudio.com/teacher-training.html Find the inspiration, guidance and certification to become a professional yoga teacher.

Modular in-depth studies available for students seeking a deeper understanding of yoga. Yoga Alliance registered.

SUNSTONE YOGA ACADEMY 4540 Beltway, Addison 75001 214-764-2119 x 3 SunstoneYoga.com/grow.aspx

Sunstone Yoga Academy is a registered yoga school with Yoga Alliance. We are dedicated to certifying the most highly trained yoga teachers in the area. See ad, page 7.

YOGURT NANA FROZEN YOGURT

8811 Teel Pkwy, Frisco 75034 • 469-362-6662 Self-serve frozen yogurt, fresh squeezed orange juice and snow cones.

ORANGE PEEL

310 E Round Grove Rd, Lewisville 75067 469-831-7608 Fourteen flavors of yogurt and more than 60 toppings.

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North Texas

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February 2012

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