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August 2014 | North Texas Edition | NA-NTX.com
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healthbriefs globalbriefs ecotip actionalert business profile businessspotlight greenliving wisewords healthykids inspiration
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 summer minigeTaWays
Green Travelers Recharge at Spas, Parks and Vineyards by April Thompson
24 learning ThaT
TransForms hearTs and minds Rethinking How We See Our World Changes Everything
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by Linda Sechrist
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advertising & submissions 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: first Monday of the month. ediTorial suBmissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: publisher@NA-NTX.com. Deadline for editorial: news briefs and feature articles are due by the first Monday of the month. Calendar suBmissions Submit calendar events online at NA-NTX.com/Calendar. Deadline for calendar: first Monday 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.
28 sChools ThaT roCk
Innovators Blaze Creative Paths
by Sandra Murphy
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30 day Care
goes green
What’s Good for Kids is Good for the World by Avery Mack
32 Cures in The kiTChen Dr. Mark Hyman is Fed Up with Our National Health Crisis
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by Judith Fertig
34 super-immuniTy For kids
Simple Ways to Boost a Child’s Long-Term Health
by Lisa Turner
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35 Be happy noW
Simple Ways to Quickly Lift Your Spirits
by April Thompson
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contact us publisher Marteé Davis editor Martin Miron editorial Theresa Archer Robert Dean Amanda Merritt design & production C. Michele Rose Stephen Blancett distribution Preston Davis printer Digital Graphics, OKC, OK multi-market advertising 469-633-9549 Franchise sales 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 © 2014 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.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe online to receive FREE monthly digital magazine at NA-NTX.com. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.
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ith August comes the glimmer of hope that some diminishing temperatures here in North Texas are on the horizon. August also is the time of year when many parents across the country prepare for getting back into a more normal routine as the kids return to school. For some, however, entrusting something as fundamental to life as developing a child’s world view to random outside agents is not an option. For others, it’s a necessary evil. As Richard Shaull, ThD, says, “There is no such thing as a neutral education process. Education either functions as an instrument which is used to facilitate the integration of generations into the logic of the present system and bring about conformity to it, or it becomes the practice of freedom the means by which men and women deal critically with reality and discover how to participate in the transformation of their world.” Therein lies the rub. How do we live in this current society and yet help our children transcend the status quo? There is so much to consider in the decision of where or how to educate, even in the concept of what constitutes a good education. How can we help our children critically reflect upon assumptions and beliefs (often passed on from parent to child, or school system to child) and consciously make and implement plans that can redefine their existence and the world? In our feature article this month, “Learning that Transforms Hearts and Minds,” author Linda Sechrist examines the notion that how our world view can change everything, and how several innovative and open thought-sharing interactions, as well as innovative schools and schooling methods, can help us let go of limiting beliefs such as self-doubt and worry and move forward into a place where input and creativity are welcomed and can move forward freely. We’re fortunate to have a pioneer in alternative education as part of our Natural Awakenings community. Almost 30 years ago, Vicki Johnston founded the Robert Muller School and Center for Living Ethics, in Fairview, and dedicated her life to helping children grow through focused development of the mental, spiritual, emotional and physical being. This month, Vicki shares her thoughts and experiences with educating children from a nature- and heart-centered, perspective. She explains that with transformative, nature-driven learning, “Our innate genius seeks expression through meaningful interchanges, challenges and explorations, leading to creativity and invention.” The balance of this issue holds a plethora of valuable information and resources to help you live better, healthier and happier. From maximizing rest and relaxation to tips on happiness and nurturing immunity, this edition has something for everyone. If you’re one of the millions preparing for the upcoming school year, I encourage you to read the articles, and even if changing schooling methods isn’t for your family, perhaps there are important and fundamental shifts you can take in how you help your child discern what is being taught and why it’s presented the way it is. Naturally yours,
Marteé Davis, Publisher NA-NTX.com
newsbriefs Cowboys on Parade in Lubbock
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he 26th annual National Cowboy Symposium & Celebration will be held September 5 through 7 at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center to celebrate and preserve Western heritage and cowboy culture. The event draws more than 10,000 people to see entertainers, poetry and storytelling, Western author panels, film and movie seminars, a Youth Wild West Day, horse-handling demonstrations, a horse-themed parade and Native American activities and presentations. Mary Kaye and Pipp Gillette are part of the evening entertainment. This year’s event schedule is slated to feature more than 80 cowboy and cowgirl poets, 70 or more musical acts, 30-plus storytellers, 200 exhibit spaces filled with the best in Western art and goods, and more than 20 chuck wagons and other special presenters and presentations. The event also includes the National Championship Chuck Wagon Cook-Off. Event hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults; $9 for seniors; $5 for youth 12 to 17 and free for youths 11 and under. Location: 1501 Mac Davis Lane, Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, Lubbock. For more information and schedule of events, call 806-798-7825 or visit Cowboy.org.
Highland Village Lions Club Balloon Festival and Fair
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he Highland Village Lions Club Foundation will host the 27th annual Highland Village Lions Club Balloon Festival & Fair from August 15 to 17, at Unity Park, to sponsor charities and bring local families together. More than 15 hot air balloons will float serenely over the park, plus many other crowd-pleasing activities such as balloon ascensions, balloon glows and tethered balloon rides. Carnival rides, a kid zone, food vendors, arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, music and activities for all ages are on the agenda. Highlights include a 5K and 1K Hot Air Race, a Classic Car Show of more than 100 vehicles, a pancake breakfast and Lions Going to the Dogs Wiener Dog Race. The Highland Village Lions Club will be offering free vision screening and collecting used eyeglasses to help those in need. Used cell phones will also be collected to be refurbished for soldiers. Admission is free for the festival, but a $5 donation for parking is requested. Location: 2200 Briarhill Blvd., Highland Village. For a complete calendar of events, times and more information, visit LionsBalloonFest.com. natural awakenings
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newsbriefs Cooking Class Targets Healthy Eating
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he Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is conducting a Dinner Tonight Healthy Cooking School from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., September 30, at the Collin College Preston Ridge Campus Conference Center. Registration begins at 6 p.m. The “Royal Chef”, Darren McGrady, will serve as emcee. Dr. Jeremy Lyon, superintendent of Frisco ISD; Dr. Brenda Kihl, provost at Collin College Preston Ridge campus; and Kim Pierce, a freelance food writer with the Dallas Morning News, will serve on the celebrity taste panel. Participants will also sample the prepared recipes and receive a cookbook. Everyone seems to be looking for quick, easy and healthy meals to serve their family, so this cooking school shows how easy and quick it is to prepare a healthy dinner on a budget. Students will see demonstrations of quick and easy-to-prepare recipes to create at home; learn healthy and economical meal preparation ideas; and discover new culinary tips and food preparation techniques. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the event. Cost is $20 before Aug. 31/$25 after. Location: 9700 Wade Blvd., Frisco. Register at 1-877-847-9355 or TexasHealth.org/Dinner-Tonight. For more information, visit HealthyLiving.tamu.edu.
Quilters Delight in Annual Plano Show
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uilt Plano 2014 is being held this year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., August 15 and 16, at the Plano Centre, sponsored by the Quilters Guild of Plano. More than 300 quilts will be on display in a juried show with cash prizes in a wide variety of styles, from art to traditional quilts and miniatures to bed-sized quilts. Dozens of free skill demonstrations will be presented by experienced members on both days, including some of the newer techniques in art quilts. More than 45 vendors will offer the latest in sewing and embroidery machines, quilting fabric and kits, tools and notions, embellishments and quilt furniture and storage. A dedicated children’s room provides hands-on experience coloring blocks that will be made into quilts and hand-stitching redwork. A quilt-themed activity book is also given to each child attending. There will also be a mini quilt auction, an award-winning raffle quilt and valuable door prizes. Daily admission is $8; 62 and up $7; 12 and under free. Advance tickets are available for $7 at local quilt and sewing stores. Location: 2000 East Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano. For more information, visit QuiltersGuildOfPlano.org.
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Free Bring Your Own Calling All Batwomen, Batmen and Batkids 10th annual Bat Fest will take over the Ann Vitamins Event TheRichards Congress Avenue Bridge, in Austin,
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ealthworks Mart Independence & Park, in Plano, will be offering free vitamin and supplement reviews with certified nutritionists during the month of August. HealthWorks Mart owner Andy Hopkins says, “Over time, people can become overloaded with nutritional and supplement products in their cabinets. Some get buried and forgotten, others are added and often clients have forgotten why they are taking certain things or they have become concerned about potential unintended interactions.” HealthWorks Mart Independence & Park is a nutritional and supplement outlet store that focuses on boutiquestyle service with outlet store pricing, and offers a very focused selection of products that are vetted by certified clinical nutritionist to be the very best in their category. The consultations are free, and appointments are recommended to avoid long wait times. Location: 3221 Independence Pkwy., Plano. For more information or to make an appointment, call 972-516-1740 or visit HealthWorksMart.com. See ad, page 8.
Texas, from 4 p.m. to midnight, August 23, with more than 10 bands, 150 booths featuring artisan works and crafts, a bat costume contest, local foods, children’s activities and of course, bat watching. About 20,000 bat aficionados are expected to attend. Because they are wild animals, it is hard to predict exactly when the emergence of 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats will begin, but the flight usually takes place between 7 and 8:30 p.m. Admission is $10 at the gate (10 and under free with an adult).
Location: 100 S. Congress Ave. For more information, visit Batfest.com.
Free Vision Screening for Ages 6 Months and Up
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he Highland Village (HV) Lions Club is conducting a free vision screening for adults and kids as young as 6 months at the Hot Air Balloon Festival using the Spot vision screener by PediaVision, a photorefractor that takes a picture of the inside of the eye and is able to screen for seven different eye problems. Eye problems rarely cause pain, so children may not report an inability to see to parents or caregivers. For them, it’s normal, and so low vision can go undetected for years. This is a huge problem because so much of all learning from birth to 12 years old is visual. The earlier any problem is discovered and corrected, the better the chance for solid education base. According to an Annie Casey Foundation study in 2010, 80 percent of children with reading difficulites also have vision problems. Admission is free. Screening hours are 5 to 7 p.m., August 15, and noon to 7 p.m., August 16. Location: HV Lions Hot Air Balloon Festival (Aug. 15-17), 2200 Briarhill Blvd., Highland Village. For more information, visit LionsBalloonFest.com.
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newsbriefs New Theme Chosen for North Texas Fair and Rodeo
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he 2014 theme of the 2014 North Texas Fair and Rodeo, to be held from August 15 to 23 in Denton, is “It’s What Cowboys Do,” according to Executive Director Glenn Carlton. “This theme reflects the Texas cowboy culture,” says Carlton. “We are considered by many as a cowboy reunion, and many attend so see old friends once a year at the fair. You don’t have to be a cowboy to attend, but many are.” The event typically attracts 150,000 attendees each year and is one of the largest Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association gatherings in the Southwest. People will enjoy nightly rodeos, a world-class midway, livestock exhibits, shopping, scores of food vendors, fun zones for kids and concerts by nationally known talent. Concerts include performances by The Randy Rogers Band, Kevin Fowler, Jamie Richards, Uncle Lucuis, Cody Johnson, the Josh Abbott Band, Aaron Watson and many more. Hispanic Heritage Day, August 17, will feature Banda Yurirense in concert. For more information, visit ntfair.com.
See Live Raptors at Sierra Club Meeting
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he Dallas Sierra club holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of the month, including August 12. A family-friendly presentation will be made by the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center, which will bring live raptors such as hawks, owls and falcons. All are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to bring cameras. The nonprofit Blackland Prairie Raptor Center, in Lucas, Texas, is open to the public the first Saturday of every month for raptor talks, prairie walks and activities for people of all ages. The Center has been presenting outreach education to schools, environmental organizations and more than 30,000 people annually since 2004. Meeting time is from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Admission is free and membership is not required. Meeting location: REI, 4515 Lyndon B. Johnson Fwy., Dallas For more information, call Sierra Club Dallas at 972-6991687 or visit DallasSierraClub.org; call Blackland Prairie Raptor Center at 469-964-9696 or visit bpraptorcenter.org. 8
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Healthy Kids Pediatrics Offers Group Appointments
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ealthy Kids Pediatrics has added a new group visit format for infant well-child checks and other treatments. Founder Deborah Z. Bain, M.D., states, “Healthy Kids Pediatrics is in the business of healing people. The group medical model allows physicians to do what they were meant to do; to heal and to teach.” There is no additional charge for the group office visits. Insurance will be billed for the complexity of the visit and only applicable Deborah Z. Bain, M.D. copays will be requested unless the patient is self-pay. The group model is for the one-month, six-month and 12-month visit and for chronic issues such as eczema, allergies and ADHD. The visit includes a private exam, as well as a group teaching and sharing on a topic specific to the age or the medical issue. Patients have minimal wait time and more time with the doctor. They also become part of a community of people where they share stories, concerns, problems and advice. A blog will help carry on the group dynamic outside of the office. Healthy Kids Pediatrics is located at 4851 Legacy Dr., Ste. 301, in Frisco. For more information, call 972-294-0808 or visit HealthyKidsPediatrics.com. See ad, page 15.
kudos The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) has recognized the city of Carrollton and four others with a Regional Cooperation Award for its innovative work in the Electronic Warrants Payment program. Other recipients were Arlington, Euless, Grand Prairie and Plano. The Electronic Warrants Payment program enables police officers to take credit card payments on the street when they encounter an individual with an outstanding warrant from one of the other participating cities. For information visit nctcog.org. See ad, back cover.
Mountain View College has received $28,824 through the Wells Fargo Environmental Solutions for Communities Program. The college was one of three Dallas-Fort Worth environmental nonprofits that received funds totaling $128,824 from the grant program, which supports projects focused on land and water conservation, energy efficiency, infrastructure and educational outreach in communities across America. The grant will support “living labs” at Mountain View. The other recipients were Veteran Jobs Training Green Energy Efficient Building Green Extreme Homes CDC ($50,000) and Creating Learning Gardens to Foster Environmental Stewards REAL School Gardens ($50,000). For more information, visit nfwf.org/environmentalsolutions.
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healthbriefs
Parents’ Smoking Linked to Artery Damage in Children
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esearchers from Australia’s University of Tasmania have found that children exposed to the secondhand smoke of their parents will likely face abnormally thickened carotid arteries later in life. The finding, published in the European Heart Journal, followed 3,776 children that participated in the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study and the Childhood Determinants of Adult Health Study. The children were divided into groups according to whether neither parent smoked, one parent smoked or both parents smoked. Questionnaire results were combined with ultrasound testing to correlate exposure during childhood with the health of carotid arteries, and researchers concluded that the effects are pervasive even 25 years later. Those exposed to two parental smokers as children had significantly greater thickness of inner carotid artery walls than did children with non-smoking parents. Their arteries also showed signs of premature aging of more than three years compared to children of nonsmokers. The researchers wrote, “There must be continued efforts to reduce smoking among adults to protect young people and to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease across the population.”
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Tough Family Life Linked to Chromosome Aging
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hen Princeton University researchers analyzed data from a representative sample of 40 AfricanAmerican boys enrolled in the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study that followed children born in major U.S. cities between 1998 and 2000, they determined that those that lived through 9 years of age with less-stable families, such as parents with multiple partners and harsh or hostile parenting styles, had a higher probability of having shorter telomeres compared with other children. Telomeres were, on average, 40 percent longer among children from stable families. Telomeres are the segments of DNA at either end of a chromosome that protect the ends from deterioration or fusion with neighboring chromosomes. Shorter telomeres can decrease life expectancy by reducing the number of times our cells can divide, and scientists are discovering that a person’s living environment may lead to the condition. Using large cohort (age group) study data from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety, another group of researchers from Amsterdam’s Vrije University found significantly shorter telomere length among those with higher stress markers; the shorter length was also associated with aging approximately 10 years faster. In addition, the scientists observed significantly shorter telomere length among people with depressive symptoms lasting longer than four years; the shorter length correlated with both longer and more severe depression.
Pine Bark Extract Reduces Perimenopausal Symptoms
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esearch published in the Journal of Reproductive Medicine confirms that pine bark extract can significantly reduce symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, including restless legs syndrome and hot flashes. For three months, 170 perimenopausal women were given 30 milligrams of Pycnogenol patented pine bark extract or a placebo twice a day. Although a placebo effect was noted, the supplement significantly improved all but two symptoms and was especially effective in improving vasomotor and insomnia/ sleep patterns. The severity of symptoms among the Pycnogenol group, as measured by the Kupperman Index, decreased 56 percent more than for the placebo group. In another study, scientists from Italy’s Pescara University gave 70 perimenopausal women a placebo or 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol daily for two months. The supplement group experienced fewer menopausal symptoms and showed improvements with symptoms that include fatigue, insomnia, reduced concentration, memory problems, dizziness, depression and irritability.
Flaxseed Lowers Blood Pressure
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ating flaxseed reduces blood pressure, according to researchers from Canada’s St. Boniface Hospital Research Center. They attribute the effect to its omega-3 fatty acids, lignans and fiber. The researchers examined the effects of flaxseed on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with peripheral artery disease, a condition typically marked by hypertension. Patients consumed a variety of foods that collectively contained 30 grams of milled flaxseed or a placebo each day for six months. The flaxseed group experienced significantly increased plasma levels of certain omega-3 fatty acids and lower average systolic blood pressure (by 10 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (by 7 mm Hg). Those in the flaxseed group with initial systolic blood pressure levels over 140 mmHg saw reductions averaging 15 mmHg.
Heelless Shoes May Help Prevent Runners’ Injuries
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British study published in Footwear Science analyzed the effects of running in experimental heelless footwear compared with conventional running shoes with reinforced heels. The objective was to see if the heelless footwear would reduce the risk of chronic injury related to the habitual rear-foot strike pattern associated with conventional heeled shoes. Using eight cameras with optoelectric running motion capture technology,12 male runners were tracked at four meters per second. The heelless running shoe resulted in less impact, greater plantar flexion and greater ankle eversion (rolling outward). The researchers concluded that the heelless shoes decreased the risk of chronic running foot injuries linked to excessive impact forces, but concede they may increase injury potential associated with excessive ankle eversion.
Medicinal Mushrooms Boost Athletic Performance
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esearch from Italy’s Pavia University found two medicinal mushroom species—cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) and reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)—significantly improve race performances and recovery times among competitive cyclists. The researchers studied seven male cyclists that had competitively raced for more than 10 years. For one month, they were given placebo supplements, after which the researchers tested their performance and recovery during races and workouts. Then, for the next three months, the cyclists daily used medicinal mushroom supplementation. The researchers found the mushrooms significantly increased performance and recovery in both workouts and races compared with the placebo period. The two types of mushrooms both boosted testosterone levels and reduced post-workout cortisol levels. The mushroom supplementation also increased their antioxidant status, reducing their risk of exhaustion. natural awakenings
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Fitness Update
Healthiest U.S. Metro Areas in 2014 The American College of Sports Medicine’s (ACSM) seventh annual American Fitness Index (AFI) ranks Washington, D.C., at the top with a score of 77.3 (out of 100), followed by Minneapolis-St. Paul (73.5), Portland, Oregon (72.1) Denver (71.7) and San Francisco (71). Dallas ranked 38th (42.6). Overall, metro areas in 25 states scored 50 or above; the two lowestranking hovered near 25 points. “The AFI data report is a snapshot of the state of health in the community and an evaluation of the infrastructure, community assets and policies that encourage healthy and fit lifestyles. These measures directly affect quality of life in our country’s urban areas,” says Walter Thompson, Ph.D., chair of the AFI advisory board. Find the complete report at AmericanFitnessIndex.org.
Dirty Waters
Trenton to Chicago via Eco-Outrigger Margo Pellegrino, a homemaker, mother of two and healthy oceans advocate from Medford Lakes, New Jersey, will begin a 1,600mile journey from nearby Trenton to Chicago, Illinois, by outrigger canoe on August 13 as part of Blue Frontier Campaign’s ocean explorers project. During her two-month trip, she’ll meet with local environmental groups and the media to raise awareness of the urgent need to clean America’s waterways. “All water and everything in it ends up in the ocean,” Pellegrino says. “Plastics and chemicals are particular problems, but soil runoff during floods and heavy rains also impact the ocean and marine life.” During previous paddles, Pellegrino saw firsthand the effects of dumped industrial waste in the waterways she traversed. She notes that nationally, oil rig operators have federal permits to dump 9 billion gallons of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, waste into the ocean each year. On Pellegrino’s first trip in 2007, she paddled nearly 2,000 miles up the Atlantic Coast, from Miami, Florida, to Maine. In 2009, she partnered with the Natural Resources Defense Council to go from Miami to New Orleans, Louisiana, to build support for a Healthy Oceans Act (OnEarth.org/author/healthyoceanspaddle). In 2010, she canoed along the Pacific coastline from Seattle, Washington, to San Diego, California. Next summer, Pellegrino plans to paddle down the Mississippi River. Follow her upcoming trip at Miami2Maine.com or on Facebook. natural awakenings
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globalbriefs Flight Zone
Airports Establish Bee-Friendly Acres The Common Acre is a nonprofit partnering with the airport serving Seattle, Washington, and the Urban Bee Company (UrbanBee.com) to reclaim 50 acres of vacant land to plant native wildflowers as pollinator habitat for hummingbirds, butterflies and disease-resistant bee colonies. A GMO-free (no genetic modification) wildflower seed farm is also in the works. Bees present no threat to air traffic and the hives discourage birds that do pose a danger to planes. Beekeeper Jim Robins, of Robins Apiaries, in St. Louis, Missouri, rents an area with a plentiful supply of white Dutch clover, and Lambert Airport views his enterprise as part of its sustainability program. O’Hare Airport, in Chicago, the first in the U.S. to install hives, is rebuilding to its full complement of 50 hives after losing about half of them to 2014’s extreme winter. It’s a project that could be a model for airports everywhere—using inaccessible scrubland to do something revolutionary, like supporting a local food system. One hundred foods make up 90 percent of a human diet, and bees pollinate 71 of them.
Cycling Rx
Doctors Order Up a Bike for Patients The Prescribe-a-Bike program (Tinyurl.com/ PrescriptionBikes) allows doctors at Boston Medical Center, in Massachusetts, to write low-income patients prescriptions for a one-year membership to Hubway, the city’s bike-sharing system, for $5, which is $80 less than the regular charge. A free helmet is part of the deal. According to The Boston Globe, one in four Boston residents is obese, and Kate Walsh, chief executive of Boston Medical Center, believes the program can help. “Regular exercise is key to combating this [obesity] trend, and Prescribe-aBike,” she says, “is one important way our caregivers can help patients get the exercise they need to be healthy.” Source: The Atlantic Monthly photo: ArchitectureAndVision.com
Learn more at CommonAcre.org.
Harvesting Fog
Simple Device Provides Safe Water in Africa The WarkaWater tower is providing an innovative new way to harvest safe drinking water, normally an onerous task in Ethiopia and many other parts of Africa. Obtaining water via repeated trips to the nearest source is extremely time-consuming and what’s collected is often highly contaminated and harmful to drink. Also, this task is commonly carried out by females, putting them in danger of sexual harassment or worse enroute. The towers, inspired by the native warka tree, are a vertical bamboo system that harvests potable, clean water from the air through condensation, using a fog-harvesting fabric that can collect up to 25 gallons of safe drinking water per day. Each tower costs about $550, and can be built in a few days by village residents using locally available materials. Source: Inhabitat.com 14
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True Grit
Why Persistence Counts Some educators believe that improvements in instruction, curriculum and school environments are not enough to raise the achievement levels of all students, especially disadvantaged children. Also necessary is a quality called “grit�, loosely defined as persistence over time to overcome challenges and accomplish big goals. Grit comprises a suite of traits and behaviors that include goal-directedness (knowing where to go and how to get there); motivation (having a strong will to achieve identified goals); self-control (avoiding distractions and focusing on the task at hand); and a positive mindset (embracing challenges and viewing failure as a learning opportunity). A meta-study of 25 years of research by John Hattie and Helen Timperley, professors at the University of Aukland, New Zealand, has shown that giving students challenging goals encourages greater effort and persistence than providing vague or no direction. Students aren’t hardwired for these qualities, but grit can be developed through an emerging battery of evidence-based techniques that give educators a powerful new set of tools to support student success. A famous example of the power of self-regulation was observed when preschoolers that were able to withstand the temptation of eating a marshmallow for 15 minutes to receive a second one were more successful in high school and scored about 210 points higher on their SATs later in life than those with less willpower (Tinyurl.com/Stanford MarshallowStudy). Source: ascd.org. natural awakenings
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ecotip New School Rules
Eco Strategies for Back-to-School Prep Families preparing for the coming school year will welcome easy ways to stretch the budget while protecting the environment our kids are growing up in. n Buying new clothes can be expensive, and most of today’s synthetic fibers are petroleum-based, while toxic pesticides are commonly used to grow cotton. For healthier alternatives, check labels for clothes made from organic, low-impact or recycled materials such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo or recycled fibers. Inexpensive options are found in Salvation Army and other thrift store locations, as well as repurposing hand-me-downs among siblings. n Avoid buying all new school supplies. Gently used binders and book bags can last years. Sturdy, simple backpacks skip the cost of faddish brand-name and celebrity products. For supplies that must be replenished, like paper, seek out postconsumer-recycled options. n For lunch boxes, food containers and utensils, look for retro metal, a cloth bag and other alternatives to plastic (which can contain harmful chemicals) and glass (which can break). Beth Terry, in her book, Plastic-Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too (MyPlasticFreeLife.com), suggests searching Mighty Nest.com and LifeWithoutPlastic.com, makers of stainless steel, naturally lacquered wood and other non-plastic, durable children’s bowls, cups, plates and utensils.
breathe
n Healthy afterschool extracurricular activities today typically require driving commutes. Look into carpooling with nearby families to save time and gas, cut vehicle emissions and expand friendships. n Check the school’s eco-practices. Encourage local administrators to conduct recycling programs and to email documents to parents instead of using regular mail.
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actionalert Dangerous Influx Gas Pipeline Pumps Radioactive Radon into Homes
In New York City, the Spectra gas pipeline that went online in 2013 is delivering more than just energy-efficient, clean-burning natural gas from Pennsylvania’s Marcellus Shale. It’s also piping radioactive radon gas that’s contaminating commercial and residential boilers, ovens, stoves, dryers and water heaters at 30 to 80 times baseline levels—well above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency safe level for radiation exposure. According to Dr. Sheila Bushkin-Bedient, with the University of Albany, New York, “While it may be possible to remove other components of raw natural gas such as ethane, propane, butane and pentanes at natural gas processing centers, it’s not possible to remove radioactive substances such as radon. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers and the second-leading cause among smokers and indirect (secondhand) smokers.” The Spectra conduit is one of hundreds of pipelines and fossil fuel infrastructure projects across the country being quickly approved by the Federal Energy and Regulatory Commission. Citizens should demand that elected officials connect the dots and halt the uncontrolled rush to drill new sites regardless of safety concerns and let them know people are alarmed by the possibility of radioactive gas entering their communities. To learn more, visit MariasFarm CountryKitchen.com/radon-gas.
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businessprofile
Let’s All Pitch in for Cleaner Air
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he North Central Texas ozone season occurs from March through October, and the region has been designated as moderate nonattainment for air quality as it relates to ozone. The 10-county region must reach attainment by December 31, 2018. The North Central Texas Council of Governments has several air quality programs in place that aim to improve our region’s air quality and move into attainment for the pollutant ozone. Many focus on education and/or the development, implementation and enforcement of emissions reduction strategies.
Air North Texas
Air North Texas, the region’s clean air public awareness campaign, implements air quality education and outreach efforts each year. This year, Air North Texas hosted the fifth annual Clean Air Action Day on June 27, during which North Texans were asked to do at least one new thing to help improve air quality. Results from the 2014 Clean Air Action Day are being determined, but preliminary participant numbers have increased. Additionally, Air North Texas encourages businesses, governments
and individuals to implement specific clean air strategies when air pollution is forecasted to reach unhealthy levels. This campaign offers easy tips to help improve air quality such as carpooling, using mass transit, conserving electricity and more.
Clean Cities
The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Clean Cities Coalition is a locally based, public/private partnership group that seeks to advance energy security, protect environmental and public health and stimulate economic development by promoting practices and decisions to reduce petroleum consumption and improve air quality, primarily in the transportation sector. In 2013, DFW Clean Cities was able to reduce more than 17 million of gallons of petroleum with the efforts of the more than 150 stakeholders who are using alternative fuel and advanced vehicle technologies. The coalition’s main goals are to facilitate and increase purchases of alternative fuel vehicles, support alternative fuel infrastructure and promote informed consumer choice on fuel economy, including hybrid vehicles.
Air North Texas encourages North Texans to do simple things to improve air quality, like taking your lunch to work and using reusable water bottles. The DFW Clean Cities Coalition also hosts several events each year, facilitates clean vehicle trainings, provides updates on available funding, and has official meetings once a quarter.
AirCheckTexas Drive a Clean Machine Program
Biodiesel technician training, hosted by DFW Clean Cities 18
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This program provides financial assistance to registered vehicle owners to repair or replace vehicles that have failed the state emissions test. The program is offered to residents in nine of the 10 nonattainment counties. Since 2003, the AirCheckTexas program has replaced 29,287 vehicles and repaired 29,111 vehicles.
IdleAire TSE site
Locally Enforced Idling Restrictions
Locally Enforced Idling Restrictions is a control measure aimed at reducing emissions caused by idling of heavy-duty gasoline and diesel vehicles. NCTCOG has promoted this initiative by developing outreach materials and assisting local governments with adoption, education and enforcement.
Truckstop Electrification
The expansion of onsite infrastructure in the DFW region is an ongoing NCTCOG initiative focused on reducing idling. Recently, NCTCOG has provided funding for the addition of 116 electrified spaces, for a total of 164 publicly available spaces in the region. These sites help reduce air pollution and save fuel by giving truck drivers access to auxiliary power without idling the main engine of the vehicle. Thanks to these projects, the DFW region now has four public TSE sites available across three counties.
Electric Vehicles North Texas
The Electric Vehicles North Texas (EVNT) program seeks to prepare the region for the widespread availability of electric vehicles (EV) through a partnership of local governments, business and other interested parties. As the number of EVs in the region increases, EVNT looks for ways to overcome barriers to the adoption and use of this clean vehicle technology. This program is a subcommittee of the DFW Clean Cities Coalition. For information on these and other initiatives, visit nctcog.org/trans/air/programs. See ad, back cover.
Light-duty natural gas vehicle training, hosted by DFW Clean Cities natural awakenings
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healingways
ents to reinforce that living sustainably isn’t just something you do at home,” notes Diedrichs. We can prescribe—and reward— ourselves with one of the following minivacations, whether it’s a trip to a green spa if we’re stressed or a hike in a park or the woods if we’ve been sedentary.
Summer Mini-Getaways
Green Travelers Recharge at Spas, Parks and Vineyards by April Thompson
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arving out time from crammed calendars for a week or more away from home can pose such a hurdle that more than half of all American workers forfeit hard-earned vacation days every year. Sometimes a long weekend in an inspiring locale is all we need to recharge our batteries. Short vacations invite welcome rest and relaxation and are often more sustainable, according to Gary Diedrichs, publisher of the online Green Traveler
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Guides (GreenTravelerGuides.com). “Airplanes pollute more than any other form of travel. When you take shorter trips by other means, whether bicycle or a hybrid rental car, you’re way ahead environmentally,” says Diedrichs, whose family enjoys road-tripping in an old Mercedes converted to run on recycled vegetable oil. For families, short, sweet trips are also easier to do with the kids in tow. “It’s also an opportunity for par-
Travel on tracks to trails. Leave behind stressful traffic and uninspiring highway views by hopping a train to a nearby state or national park. Riders can venture through a variety of terrains without leaving their seats. Amtrak reaches more than 237 national parks and monuments (AmtrakToParks.com), many of which offer stunning backdrops for outdoor music festivals. A rail-to-park adventure can rekindle old friendships with faraway, but not forgotten friends. Draw a circle encompassing everyone’s location and pick a park within the perimeter as the meet-up spot, distributing the travel burden equally. Agree beforehand which friends bring which essential camping equipment, food and other provisions so that everyone travels light. Traversing trails is a fun, bonding experience. Go farm to fork. Escape city crowds, live bucolic fantasies and learn about sustainable agriculture during a farm stay. Organic family farms across the country offer overnight accommodations to supplement farming incomes and connect with local consumers. Farm life is about simple pleasures, like waking to a rooster’s call and then digging into a farm-fresh breakfast of free-range eggs, accompanied by home-
made bread, cheese, jam and honey. Afterwards, stroll an apple orchard or fragrant field of lavender. Most farms allow guests to pitch in with the chores, maybe feeding chickens, milking cows, picking cherries or making yogurt. Find a place nearby at FarmStayUS.com. Renew your spirit. Reconnect with your faith or explore a new spiritual calling with a short stay at a retreat center. Some furnish structured guided sessions, such as vipassanã Buddhism’s silent retreats, at which participants sit in meditation eight hours a day without access to media or other distractions. Other centers assist guests in creating self-directed retreats tailored to personal goals. Grounds often feature sacred spaces like labyrinths or meditation gardens, providing an inspiring environment to contemplate one’s spiritual journey.
RetreatFinder.com supplies a comprehensive listing of possibilities conducive to every spiritual persuasion, from Anglican to Zen, across the country and worldwide. Taste the terroir. A long weekend amidst vineyards can be a refreshing way to simultaneously explore the countryside and refine our wine palate. Along with tastings, some vintners provide tours of their vineyards and cellars, including insights into the characteristics of local terroirs that give each vintage its distinctive taste. Some also have bed and breakfast inns onsite, eliminating the need for a designated driver. The site WineriesByState.com lists domestic wineries in all 50 states; KennUncorked.com provides information about biodynamic and organic winemakers. Pamper your body. Visiting a green destination spa is a soothing way to detox from stress while indulging in
corporeal treats like a hot stone massage, aromatherapy treatment or rose petal bath. Green spas use natural products such as unbleached organic linens and botanically derived oils, which are gentler on skin. Most practice sustainability in other areas as well, such as water management, energy use and waste reduction. Search for the perfect getaway treat at GreenSpaNetwork.org. Numerous farms, spas, parks and vineyards are waiting to be explored; many nearby that we may overlook draw visitors from around the world. “Local travel gives us a chance to dig more deeply into the places that surround us,” says Diedrichs. “We can have fun playing tourists in our own backyards and support sustainable, local businesses we discover along the way.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.
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businessspotlight
Healthier Beverages from SodaStream by Charles Lewis
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or more than 100 years, SodaStream International has been helping people enjoy refreshing sparkling beverages. In 1903, Guy Hugh Gilbey, of the London gin distillers W & A Gilbey, Ltd., created an “apparatus for aerating liquids”. This revolutionary piece of equipment, which enabled owners to turn ordinary water into something quite exciting for the time; light, effervescent, bubbly refreshment, was in high demand among royals and the upper class society of London. Then in 1920, convenient flavor enhancements such
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as cherry ciderette and sarsaparilla were introduced. The company has grown a lot from those early days. In 1955, home machines were produced and primarily sold in the UK, later spreading to Germany, New Zealand and Australia. With the recent rise in consumer interest in healthier food and beverage options and environmental awareness, SodaStream, the world leader in home carbonated beverage systems, is poised to become the new go-to kitchen appliance. Consumers can easily and instantly transform ordinary tap water
into carbonated beverages that contain no artificial flavors or coloring, no artificial sweeteners, no preservatives, no high-fructose corn syrup and up to two-thirds less sugar than store-bought cola. All the healthier benefits and limitless potential for customization. SodaStream mixologists are crafting and sharing creative beverages recipes for kid-friendly fizzy drinks, healthy sparkling juices and even cocktails. While sparkling water enthusiasts can control the precise level of carbonation and use the water of their choice—filtered, structured, pH balanced or tap—others may choose to flavor the sparkling water they create by adding fresh ingredients like fruit purée and juice or by using convenient SodaStream flavorings to the precise level of intensity preferred. SodaStream is helping to eliminate plastic in our landfills, carbon emissions and more. Because SodaStream uses special carbonation crafting bottles to create and store its beverages, users are not hauling home or discarding out one bottle per beverage consumed. According to some studies, Americans alone dispose of 130 billion bottles and cans every year, and 340 billion beverage bottles and cans are not recycled every year around the world. SodaStream is also dedicated to reducing the amount of packaging waste from bottles and cans, as well as the level of pollution caused by transporting. Because each 60L SodaStream carbonator is enough to create the equivalent of up to 60 liters of soda, and SodaStream bottles are reusable for up to four years, one family could eliminate as many as 10,657 bottles and cans over five years. SodaStream is a staple in many European and other homes worldwide where environmental awareness is highest. The sleek, elegant machines are moving in atop the counters of millions of American households. For coupons, recipes and more information, visit SodaStream.com. See ad, page 31.
Luscious Libations by SodaStream Hawaiian Burst
Cucumber Heat
Ingredients: SodaStream Diet Lemon-Lime SodaStream Energy Drink Pineapple juice
Ingredients: 1 oz vodka 1 /2 oz Saint Germain liqueur (elderflower liquor) 1 /2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice 4 Slices cucumber SodaStream sparkling water, extra fizzy
Instructions: 1. Fill a large tumbler with crushed ice. 2. Fill up 1/3 with pineapple juice, 1/3 with SodaStream Energy Drink and top off with 1 /3 SodaStream Diet Lemon-Lime (or regular Lemon-Lime). Note: Other tropical juices are also very good in this drink recipe – try pineapple-orange-guava.
Ginger-Honey Lemonade (For those 21 or over, contains alcohol)
Ingredients: 1 cup raw honey 1 /3 cup crystallized or candied ginger vodka (adjust amount based on desired strength) SodaStream Country Time Sparkling Lemonade Instructions: 1. Make ginger-infused honey: Use a double broiler (or a small pot inside a larger pot). Add 1/3 cup water to the bottom of the double broiler. In the smaller pot at the top, add honey and ginger. 2. Bring water (not honey) to a boil. Bring honey temperature to 160 for 60 minutes (you don’t have to sit and watch the whole time). Watch water and add as needed. 3. Once done, transfer to a clean, airtight jar and place in the fridge or leave out and let cool. 4. Assemble cocktail Using a shaker glass, place 4-6 shots vodka, ½ cup SodaStream Country Time Lemonade, 4 ice cubes and 3 Tbsp infused honey. 5. Garnish with additional candied ginger and lemon slices.
(For those 21 or over, contains alcohol)
Instructions: 1. Muddle 4 slices of cucumber in shaker add vodka, Saint Germain, lemon juice and ice. 2. Shake and strain over ice in large tumbler. 3. Top up with SodaStream sparkling water.
Smashed Raspberry Lemonade (For those 21 or over, contains alcohol)
Ingredients: 2 oz Triple Sec 2 oz Limoncello 1 handful of raspberries Juice of two lemons SodaStream sparkling water, extra fizzy Raw sugar Instructions: 1. To muddle fruit, add a handful of fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of raw sugar to the bottom of a glass. Use a muddler (a wooden spoon will work) to smash fruit until it has the appearance of jam. 2. Add the Triple Sec, Limoncello and lemon juice to your glass. Add ice. Top if off with SodaStream sparkling water. Give it a quick stir and enjoy. 3. You can use fresh raspberries and lemon slices for garnish.
Recipes compliments of SodaStream. For more information, visit SodaStream.com. See ad, page 31.
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Learning that Transforms Hearts and Minds Rethinking How We See Our World Changes Everything by Linda Sechrist
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n the 30 years since Harrison Owen introduced Open Space Technology (OST), it has been used hundreds of thousands of times by three-quarters of the world’s countries. Whether a few people gather in a circle to share ideas and brainstorm personal issues or thousands discuss a bulletin board of topics around tables, OST is a safe, informal venue for transformative learning. Guided by purpose-based, shared leadership, it allows individuals focused on a specific task to freely speak their thoughts and be heard. It also encourages breakout groups to mine for more information—learning individually, as well as collectively, and self-organizing in order to concentrate on more complex topics. “Boeing engineers used OST to learn how to redesign airplane doors and young Egyptians used it to strategize for their Arab Spring,” as examples, comments Owen.
Circle Principle
For Owen, like Jack Mezirow, author of the paper, “Core Principles of Transformative Learning Theory,” 20th-century Brazilian educator Paulo Freire and 24
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Juanita Brown, cofounder of The World Café, learning is transformation, the keystone of life, and the essence of meaningful education. “The circle principle contains the predictability of fresh, emerging thoughts and learning that never occurred previously,” explains Owen. He points to an experiment regarding children’s capacity for self-learning initiated by Sugata Mitra, Ph.D., the former science director of an educational technology firm in India. On the outside wall of the building where he worked, Mitra installed a computer facing a New Delhi slum where most children were unschooled and illiterate and had never seen a computer. He turned it on and told children they could play with it. Via a noninvasive video camera, he watched 7-to-13-year-olds discover how to use the computer and teach each other how to play music and games and draw using Microsoft’s Paint program. Repetition of the experiment in other impoverished sections of India yielded similar results. Wherever he established an Internet connection, children that could not read English, the Internet’s default language, taught themselves
how to use the Web to obtain information through their interactions with each other and the computer. “I agree with what Mitra surmised from his experiment—learning is emergent, which is another word for self-organizing,” remarks Owen. Like Freire, Owen likens traditional education to the “banking” method of learning, whereby the teacher passes information to students that become dependent on someone else rather than learning how to think on their own. Suzanne Daigle, a Sarasota, Florida-based consultant with a Canadian multidisciplinary consulting firm, explains how the OST learning environment changed her life: “My personal transformation began in 2009, when I volunteered to assist another OST facilitator. I was a perfectionist who judged myself harshly and struggled with the question, ‘Who am I to think I can help hold space for leaders to transform themselves through their learning when I have so little experience?’” She notes, “Before such experiences, even though I was a leader in my corporate career, I doubted myself and often believed that what others had to say was more significant and interesting than what I could express.” Now she says she has shed her people-pleasing tendencies and former attempts to control other people’s agendas and discovered the freedom and courage of her own voice. “As an OST facilitator, my life work now occurs in the moments I am collaboratively learning and listening for opportunities to enter into meaningful conversations that can lead to actions,” says Daigle. “I invite others to do the same.”
Co-Learning
In a compulsory two-year Theory of Learning class for an International Baccalaureate degree at California’s Granadas Hill Charter High School, math and science educator Anais Arteaga helps students apply two major elements of transformative learning: self-reflection to critique one’s own assumptions and discourse through which they question or validate their judgments. She focuses on the roles that perception, language, reason and emotion play in a student’s learning and decision-making abilities.
“Questions and lively discussions are the basis of the class,” Arteaga says. “We begin with a question and explore what we know, how we know it and any conclusions drawn from the process.” Using a democratic model in which the teacher welcomes critical discussion, Arteaga and her students have mutually discovered that knowledge is not static, but has a history and changes over time. “When we first started the class, it was challenging to accept that in many situations there is no right or wrong, just relativity and a matter of perception. We don’t really know anything for certain,” she remarks.
Worldview Explorations
Katia Petersen, Ph.D., is the executive director of education at the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS), headquartered in Petaluma, California. She co-developed the tools, practices and 22 lessons in the pioneering organization’s Worldview Explorations (WE) project. Founded on 40 years of IONS research, WE engages everyone in age-appropriate ways in reflecting upon long-held assumptions and how beliefs create the lens they see through, ultimately improving how they understand and respond to the world. “When individuals understand the power of offering their story and are open to the worldview stories of others, they no longer focus attention on differences and limitations,” says Petersen. “They realize that everyone has their own truth.” Through small groups and conversations, participants unpack how the program has influenced them by answering questions that explore what inspired, surprised and changed the way they perceive the world. “WE’s transformative learning experiences draw from the heart and soul of individuals, rather than stuffing heads with ideas and perspectives, which serves them well as they embody and apply these tools and practices in their daily lives,” notes Petersen. She cites a particularly powerful moment for a group of young people she worked with. “A student was killed in a drive-by shooting two weeks before their certification. The transformative moment came when they said that
“There is no such thing as a neutral education process. Education either functions as an instrument which is used to facilitate the integration of generations into the logic of the present system and bring about conformity to it, or it becomes the practice of freedom, the means by which men and women deal critically with reality and discover how to participate in the transformation of their world.” ~ Richard Shaull, ThD
their new awareness and capacity for compassion and understanding would not allow them to seek revenge. Instead, they chose to save lives in their communities using their new skills.”
Mycelium School
Ashley Cooper and Matt Abrams, cofounders of the Mycelium School, in Asheville, North Carolina, re-imagined a learning environment for aspiring entrepreneurs and social change agents committed to activating their potential and realizing solutions to today’s challenges. A 12-week learning journey allows individuals to become increasingly adept at learning from and helping each other learn. The curriculum offers minimum structure, significant support and collaboration with others. “In the learning community, individuals are dedicated to a project or life question of their choice,” explains Cooper. Participants’ goals include changing careers, determining the next steps after retirement or how to pursue true passions to make a difference in the world. natural awakenings
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Cheri Torres, Ph.D., founder of the Asheville-based Innovation Partners International SE, was one of the earliest participants in the Mycelium Learning experience. She says that she obtained an expanded understanding of the approach that she uses in her work. “The whole systems approach I use with organizational and community leaders enables them to shift from a top-down management model to one that engages everyone and uses the collective intelligence and collaborative efforts of all for the collective good. My own learning journey transformed the level of awareness I bring to my work and the understanding of who I am,” advises Torres. “My original guiding question was, ‘How can I get so clear about my work that I can explain it in plain language?’ Ultimately, my question shifted to what would it be like for me to live and work from a place of wholeness. Through conversations with Ashley and self-reflection, I realized I was not walking my talk within my own mind-body-spirit system. My journey helped me understand that my most effective role in my
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own life, as well as with clients, is to create the conditions for collective intelligence and collaboration to emerge in service to the whole,” says Torres.
World Café
Like OST, the World Café, co-created by Brown and David Isaacs, of Burnsville, North Carolina, creates a transformative learning environment for individuals of all ages. Its primary principles are: set the context, create hospitable space, explore questions that matter, encourage everyone’s contributions, connect diverse perspectives, listen together for patterns and insights and share collective discoveries. Webs of conversation created around actual or occasionally virtual tables resemble those found in coffeehouses. “Conversation is a core meaningmaking process, and people get to experience how the collective intelligence of a small or large group can become apparent,” says Brown. After several rounds of conversation on one or more topics, participants offer their harvest of key insights, learning and opportunities for action with the full group gathered to reflect together on their discoveries.
“World Café provides an environment in which you are comfortably drawn forward by the questions you are asking together. When enough diversity is present, varied perspectives are offered and people feel listened to and free to make their contribution,” observes Brown. What participants learn in this setting creates the climate of conditions that support the kinds of transformations that can changes lives. Brown remarks, “When it happens to me, I feel like my brain cells have been rearranged. I know something in the collective, as well as the individual, has been evoked, so that something never before imagined becomes present and available.” Transformative learning has been compared to a sea journey without landmarks. Adventurous individuals that are open to traversing its highly engaging processes can emerge as autonomous thinkers, capable of contributing fresh, new ideas that just might transform the world we live in. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAbout We.com for the recorded interviews.
Transformative Learning Liberates Children by Vicki Johnston
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ransformative learning is nature-driven from birth, through childhood and into adulthood. Our innate genius seeks expression through meaningful interchanges, challenges and explorations, leading to creativity and invention. Transformative relationships nurture transformative learning by igniting the flames of intelligence and initiative in children. Sometimes when we are fully engaged in a project, nearby children clamor to join in. Just try to exclude them while cultivating a garden, painting or even grocery shopping. As role models and mentors; actively, meaningfully and creatively engaged in living, we become human magnets for eager learners. The painter E.A. Burbank, famous for his portraits of Native Americans, spoke of the children as “the happiest children in the world.” Noting Hopi children’s remarkable ability to sit still for extended periods for portraits,
Eastman closely observed the adult/ child relationships. The children matured among adults engaged in meaningful projects for the benefit of family and tribe. Lovingly and patiently, adults welcomed them to join in tasks. For example, a mother designing a clay pot would hand her interested child a lump of clay. By working beside his mentor, without adult corrections or judgments, the young apprentice self-perfected his skill. What can be more enjoyable and natural than to inspire a child’s desire to engage in challenging, meaningful projects that align with individual proclivities? Unlike tiresome nagging, prodding, judging and evaluating, the transformative joy of modeling and encouraging energizes both adult and child. Transformative learning activates the prefrontal lobes. Here, “the essence of our humanity” resides, according
to world-renowned expert Dr. Donald Stuss, author of Principles of Frontal Lobe Function. Dr. Elkonnon Goldberg, who wrote The Executive Brain, credits this “most human” part of the brain with cognitive flexibility, abstract thinking and generating new ideas. Equally significant, Candace Pert noted the dense cluster of endorphin transmitters located in these lobes in her book, Everything You Need to Know to Feel Go(o)d. Together, transformative relationships and learning stimulate transformative potentials. Children naturally love to innovate, communicate and relate. Our attractive examples and invitations trigger the child’s natural drive to contribute value to the world. The depth and breadth of transformative learning renders obsolete schooling through skills, drills and testing. The transformation of homes and schools into environments enlivened by happy, dynamic, purposefully engaged adults and children is a tantalizing prospect. When learning comes alive, children thrive. Vicki Johnston is the founder and director of Robert Muller School and The Center for Living Ethics, a cooperative community learning center for adults, families, and Pre-K through Middle School-aged children, located in Fairview, offering both full-time and part-time programs. For more info, visit CenterForLivingEthics.org. See listing, page 45.
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Children at Wisconsin’s Montessori School of Waukesha learn to baste; spoon beans or rice from bowls; cut paper, draw, paint or paste cutouts; and sew or embroider using a three-finger grip. It strengthens the muscles they will need later to practice writing skills.
Schools that Rock Innovators Blaze Creative Paths by Sandra Murphy
Creative educational initiatives offer more flexible programs of study than traditional institutions. First introduced into the United States in the latter part of the 20th century, today there are thousands of such facilities operating according to their own lights. Yet many share certain distinguishing characteristics including emphasis on close studentteacher relationships, diverse experiential learning and development of student decision-making skills aided by peer and parental support. All aim to prepare and equip students for future success both inside and outside the classroom.
Montessori
At age 3, kids at the Baltimore Montessori Public Charter School, in Maryland, are gaining early math and motor skills, plus an appreciation for healthy foods, in unique and innovative ways. “The children roll out a long mat containing 1,000 beads that they use to learn to count by twos, fours and 10s,” says Jenny Smolen, development coordinator and grant writer for the school. “When it’s time for multiplication and division, they’re prepared.” The school is located in a food desert—fresh, unprocessed food isn’t readily available—so the kids plant 28
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seeds to grow in pots until it’s time to transplant them to the garden. “Before the seed-to-table program, the kids didn’t know what fresh tasted like. Now they go home and ask for vegetables for dinner,” says Smolen. The school also has six chickens that supply fresh eggs, and two beehives produced 100 pounds of honey last year that was sold to raise funds. The school is free of charge to Baltimore city students chosen by lottery. Currently, 330 students from diverse backgrounds ages 3 through 13 attend, with 1,000 names on the waiting list.
Waldorf
Waldorf School alumna Jocelyn Miller, an account manager at Matter Communications, drives 45 minutes from Newburyport, Massachusetts, to take her three children to the Cape Ann Waldorf School, in Beverly. “On bad weather days, I wonder why I make the drive, but the smiles when we arrive are worth it,” she says. There, her children spend time outdoors regardless of the weather. Indoors, they draw illustrations to bolster lessons on history and geography. Second-graders work in three-hour blocks of time, rather than the traditional 45 minutes. Third-grade students recently spent three weeks studying Greek mythology. Older students play in an orchestra and learn German and Spanish. They also knit; the craft builds manual dexterity and helps children learn to plan, correct mistakes, be creative, visualize the finished product and mindfully create something useful or decorative. Middle school and high school students at the Waldorf School of Garden City, in New York, universally participate in seasonal sports—baseball, softball, basketball and soccer. The emphasis on the values of teamwork and sportsmanship complement development of skills. The school’s policy is, “You don’t have to be a superstar to get playing time,” noting that the quality of athletic teams is consistently strong.
The school also brings some green into the city with a horticultural program that fully cultivates a quarter-acre field. Its steady harvest of fruits, vegetables, herbs and grains includes lettuce, beans, spinach, broccoli, kale, corn, oregano, thyme, rosemary, strawberries, blueberries and raspberries. A new greenhouse keeps produce growing through winter months. Students at Conservatory Prep High School, in Davie, Florida, were tasked with finding a way to walk on water in order to explore principles of flotation and buoyancy. After researching and experimenting with each of a series of materials, they analyzed what went wrong, worked to fix it and then tried again. “We did the testing at our onsite pool,” says Wendy Weiner, Ed.D., the school’s founder and principal and a Waldorf alumna. “We saw some pretty funny results, but they eventually invented a pair of shoes that worked. Of course, they were pretty big shoes.”
Homeschooling
Homeschooling provides another option. Parents don’t need to know all about a subject with organizations like Bridgeway Academy’s homeschool curricula at hand. This Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, institution provides easy access to tools and support for families nationwide. “We’re a kindergarten-to-12th-grade provider,” says Jessica Parnell, academy president. “Teachers in a school setting have to teach standardized subjects, in certain ways, to the whole class. We use customized learning to inspire and excite children individually. We help parents discover their child’s learning style, personality and ideal learning environment.” Materials provided include instructor guides, user-friendly websites and interactive games and other activities. “It gives kids the freedom to explore, learn and discover,” Parnell adds. “This is how you grow a lifelong learner.”
Un-Schooling
Un-schooling, another pioneering approach, is a method of homeschooling
Teachers, students and parents at Weinacker’s Montessori School, in Mobile, Alabama, apply daily, weekly, monthly and yearly logs of goals and work plans to track progress. All of this can be adjusted as kids discover new topics they want to learn more about. in which children pursue areas that interest them, eat foods they enjoy, rest when needed, choose friends of all ages or none at all and engage their world in unique, powerful and self-directed ways. Suzanne Strisower, a life and career coach in Oroville, California, has written a commoncore, standards-based curriculum for un-schoolers. “It’s a yearlong program for ages 15 and up designed to enable
a student to realize his career path and life’s purpose,” she says.
Online Tutorials
“There’s an explosion in online learning, too,” observes Bob Bowdon, executive director of nonprofit Choice Media, an education news service at ChoiceMedia.tv, produced in New York City. School kids in some states are able to opt out of a class at school if they feel the teaching style is holding them back, instead tapping online teachers available in a virtual school setting. Louisiana’s Department of Education’s Jump Start program partners high schools and local companies to offer students one-day-a-week internships apprenticing in trades. “It’s real-world, on-the-job training,” says Bowdon. Thanks to such innovative approaches to school curricula and technology, parents and children have more options than ever before for learning. Instead of memorizing information until the next test and then forgetting it, more learning is customized and hands-on, because children that learn by doing, remember. Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouis FreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.
Standout Schools Help Inner-City Kids Shine New York City students participating in The Young Women’s Leadership of East Harlem School are motivated to think about where, not if, they will attend college. The first three all-girl graduating classes boasted 100 percent college enrollment with the help of the Young Women’s Leadership College Bound Initiative, which funds a full-time college counselor at several of the city’s public high schools. The majority of the students are the first in their families to attend college. Harlem Village Academy Charter School, in Manhattan, ranks highest among all public, non-selective high schools in New York City in terms of college enrollment. Because many
children enter it as fifth-graders with a first grade reading ability, they typically receive extracurricular, phonics-based reading instruction, attend a homework club and have access to outside tutors. Performance generally improves throughout middle school, and 90 percent of the students stay in the Harlem Village Academies (HVA) network through high school. The class of 2012 had a 100 percent graduation rate compared with a 60 percent average for the city’s high schools. Nationally, only 8 percent of low-income students graduate from college, but 88 percent of all HVA high school graduates starting with its first senior class in 2011 have remain enrolled in college classes.
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greenliving
Day Care Goes Green What’s Good for Kids is Good for the World by Avery Mack
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ith children especially susceptible to germs, chemical sensitivities and allergens, it makes sense to ensure that the child-friendliness of day care facilities extends to their ecological integrity. When Denise Adusei, of New York City, was unable to find a preschool that included all the criteria she sought, she decided to create and direct Peartree Preschool, a yearround day care facility for 2-to-5-year-olds. “An eco-friendly day care environment is more than nontoxic paint, organic food and unscented soaps. It’s what you don’t see, as well,” says Adusei. “We first looked for a building with lots of natural light near Central Park. Manhattan has a high rate of allergens, so we went ahead with a thorough environmental inspection on what looked like an ideal building,” recalls Adusei. Inspectors pulled tiles from the floor, opened walls to check for mold and collected samples. “When they discovered signs of an old oil spill in the basement, we knew it was an unsafe place for children. We kept looking until we found the right building with large windows, near the park and environmentally safe,” she says, noting that her own kids now attend Peartree. Workplace coach Paul E. McGinniss, who also blogs at NewYorkGreenAdvocate.com, says, “Creating a garden onsite and connecting with local farmers or CSAs [community supported agriculture] to provide healthy, fresh foods is a great way to educate kids via a learning activity. New York’s Hudson Valley, where I live, has a farm to school move30
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ment. Everyone should know where their food comes from,” he says, echoing another day care cornerstone. In Madison, Connecticut, Tina Pascoe, a registered nurse, attorney and health consultant, co-founded Nurses for Day Care, a nationwide program. The staff finds that many children are sensitive to dye additives in mustard or ketchup, certain oils in soap, paint or cleaning fumes and fire-retardant chemicals embedded in new rugs and carpeting. “We push for the whole school to go green, not just the classroom, with the sensitive or allergic child in mind,” she says. “We’re willing to do whatever it takes, like providing special menus, banning perfumes and smoking, and only using disinfectant wipes or bleach during nighttime cleaning.” Pascoe personally works with about 80 facilities throughout the state. The Cottages at Michaels Learning Center, in Sarasota, is Florida’s first school to earn a Level Three Green School and green infant care certification from the National Green School Coalition and operates the city’s only certified green infant care program. Children from 6 weeks through kindergarten benefit. The school even conducts regular radon testing. Owner and Director Michelle Ireland assesses, “It’s cause and effect. One of the things we teach the children is how our actions have an impact on the world.” Mark Stedelbauer, vice president of marketing at eWater Advantage, in Raleigh, North Carolina, strives to inform day care administrators about the value of using electrolyzed water instead of cleansers. An electrical current that runs through a blend of ordinary tap water and minerals changes the basic nature of water. A lower pH creates a disinfecting solution; a higher pH results in a degreaser. Both solutions clean and kill germs without fumes, residue or allergy triggers. “Often, the combined cost of the electricity, water and mineral supplements used is less than what would be spent on multiple cleaning products,” Stedelbauer points out. It can be created by the half-gallon in a toaster-sized unit onsite and has been approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Agriculture (for use on meat) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (for use on produce). Also, electrolyzed water won’t harm skin or clothing. Creative Minds Learning Centers’ six locations are recognized by the Oregon Program of Quality as among the top 25 schools in the state. They buy renewable energy from wind, solar and biomass sources. At the school, they compost, plant sustainable gardens, collect rainwater and recycle. Nature preschools in the U.S., nearly 30 sites and growing, use a community nature center as a regular part of their learning program (Tinyurl.com/NaturePreschools). Generally, the children are outdoors for 45 to 90 minutes per day, weather permitting, and flexible activities allow them to investigate their own interests safely. Daily explorations build valuable skills like observation, sorting and experimentation. Children experiencing green day care see firsthand how healthy, environmentally sound choices can help make their present and future safe. Telling their parents about their school experiences is a natural bonus. Avery Mack is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect via AveryMack@mindspring.com.
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wisewords
taught her children how to grow food, even though they live in a temperate rural area.
Cures in the Kitchen Dr. Mark Hyman is Fed Up with Our National Health Crisis by Judith Fertig
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n the groundbreaking new documentary film, Fed Up, Dr. Mark Hyman prescribes a major overhaul of the diets of all family members in communities across America to prevent far-reaching unwanted consequences. Hyman practices functional medicine, which takes a wholesystem approach to treating chronic illnesses by identifying and addressing their root causes, starting with poor diet. He is also the bestselling author of a series of books based on The Blood Sugar Solution.
What has your experience with Fed Up shown you about the root cause of many diseases? In Fed Up, I met with a family of five to talk with them about their health and understand the roots of their fam-
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ily crisis of morbid obesity, pre-diabetes, renal failure, disability, financial stress and hopelessness. Rural South Carolina, where they live, is a food desert with nearly10 times as many fast-food and convenience stores as supermarkets. The family’s kitchen was also a food desert, with barely a morsel of real food. There were no ingredients to make real food—only pre-made factory science projects sold in cans and boxes with unpronounceable, unrecognizable ingredient lists. This family desperately wanted to find a way out, but didn’t have the knowledge or skills. They lived on food stamps and fast food and didn’t know how to navigate a grocery aisle, shop for real food, read a label, equip a kitchen or cook nutritious meals. Their grandmother has a garden, but never
What results did the family see when they changed their eating habits? I got the whole family cooking, washing, peeling, chopping, cutting and touching real food—onions, garlic, carrots, sweet potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, salad greens, even asparagus. After 12 months, the mother had lost 100 pounds and was off of blood pressure medication, and because the father had lost 45 pounds, he finally qualified for a kidney transplant. The son originally lost 40 pounds, but because he was stuck in a toxic food environment at school and only able to get a job at a fast-food eatery, he gained much of it back. I’m happy to report that he is now working to get back on track.
How is sugar a primary factor in creating obesity? Of some 600,000 processed food items on the market, 80 percent contain added sugar. Sugar calories act differently from fat or protein calories in the body. Sugar calories drive food addiction, storage of belly fat, inflammation and fatty liver (now the number one reason for liver transplants). They also disrupt appetite control, increasing hunger and promoting overeating, and are biologically addictive. Sugar calories are the major contributor to heart attacks, strokes, cancer, dementia and Type 2 diabetes. Sugar is a root cause behind the tripling of obesity rates in children since the 1970s. As just one example illustrating
government policy culprits, although poor people are disproportionately affected by obesity, the food industry vigorously opposes any efforts to limit the use of food stamps for soda. Every year, the U.S. government pays for $4 billion in soda purchases by the poor (10 billion servings annually) on the front end, and then pays billions more on the back end through Medicaid and Medicare to treat related health consequences that include obesity and diabetes.
What are the consequences if we don’t attack the problem of poor diet now? The costs of a poor diet are staggering: At the present rate, by 2040, 100 percent of the nation’s federal budget will go for Medicare and Medicaid. The federal debt soars as our unhealthy kids fall heir to an achievement gap that limits America’s capacity to compete in the global marketplace. At the same time, having 70 percent of young people unfit for military service weakens national security. In a detailed scientific analysis published in The New England Journal of Medicine, a group of respected scientists reviewing all the data affecting projected life spans concluded that today’s children are the first generation of Americans ever that will live sicker and die younger than their parents. Health issues due to poor diet comprise a national crisis. They threaten our future, not just for those fat and sick among us, but all of us. For more information on Fed Up, visit FedUpMovie.com. Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot. com from Overland Park, KS.
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healthykids
Pinpoint Allergies
Super-Immunity for KIDS Simple Ways to Boost a Child’s Long-Term Health
Shore Up with Supplements
by Lisa Turner
We’d love it if our kids had fewer sick days away from school, but what if by bolstering their immune systems now, we could also protect them from serious diseases going forward?
D
“
uring childhood, when the immune system is still developing, there’s a great opportunity to set the stage for improved health and resilience,” says Dr. Joel Fuhrman, a family physician and nutritional researcher in Flemington, New Jersey, and author of Disease-Proof Your Child. “A healthy diet and lifestyle can help kids avoid common childhood illnesses like colds, ear infections and allergies, as well as ensure greater resilience against disease later in life.”
Focus on HighQuality Foods Fruits and veggies have a wealth of protective phytochemicals that enhance immune cell function and protect against disease. In a study published in
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Food allergies and sensitivities can suppress the immune system by increasing inflammation in the body and call for consultation with a health specialist. “Whenever there is extra inflammation, the body has less available energy to keep the immune system functioning as well as it should,” says Dr. Fred Pescatore, a New York author of The Allergy & Asthma Cure. “It’s like putting the wrong type of gasoline in the car; it hinders your performance.”
the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, kids that ate the most fruit had a 38 percent lower risk of cancer later in life. Berries, cherries, plums and pomegranates are among the most powerful immune-boosting fruits. For veggies, eat more dark leafy greens, tomatoes, carrots and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower. Also emphasize whole grains and healthy fats such as those found in nuts, seeds and avocado, advises Fuhrman. Sugar-laden calories depress the infection-fighting activity of white blood cells, says Dr. Alan R. Gaby, of Concord, New Hampshire, author of the textbook, Nutritional Medicine. Even natural sweeteners such as honey and juice have similar effects when consumed in excess, he says. Try healthy options like pomegranate and kiwi fruit salad; trail mix with raw almonds; dried cranberries and air-popped popcorn; and hummus with red pepper strips and baby carrots for dipping.
Probiotics can enhance immune function in children by stimulating white blood cells and reducing inflammation, says Gary B. Huffnagle, Ph.D., a University of Michigan Medical School immunology research professor and author of The Probiotics Revolution. They are especially protective against allergies, diarrhea and respiratory tract infection. Start with yogurt: Serve with cereal; mix with mashed bananas and freeze in ice cube trays for a cool treat; or make smoothies with unsweetened, non-dairy yogurt and frozen berries. Or consider a Lactobacillus acidophilus supplement; aim for 5 billion CFUs per day of Lactobacillus or bifidobacterium. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), an ayurvedic herb, boosts immunity by supporting and balancing adrenal function, says Dr. John Douillard, Ph.D., a Boulder, Colorado, chiropractor, ayurvedic physician and author of Perfect Health for Kids. The adrenal glands produce cortisol, and overproduction of this “fight-or-flight” hormone can dampen immunity. Ashwagandha is particularly helpful for preventing colds and can also be used when kids are stressed or tired. For children ages 6 to 12, give 500 milligrams per day with breakfast; children over 12 can take 1,000 mg a day.
Stabilize Hormonal Changes “Puberty and adolescence are marked by dramatic shifts in and surges of hormones,” says Dr. Richard Shames, of Sebastopol, California, co-author of Feeling Fat, Fuzzy, or Frazzled? “This is monumental, as far as the developing immune system is concerned. As the immune system is directly linked to hormon-
Tell kids they’ll get sick, and chances are it’ll happen. Instead, nurture an attitude of wellness and help them learn they have control over their own health. al influences, any hormonal imbalance will affect overall immunity.” Shames recommends selenium—a potent antioxidant and general immune booster—to help balance hormones. For children ages 8 to 18, aim for 100 mg per day.
Let ’em Get Dirty
“Once a child has been exposed to dirt and germs, the immune system responds by trying to expel those bacteria from the body, which strengthens immunity,” counsels Jane Sheppard, owner of HealthyChild.com and founding executive director of the Holistic Pediatric Association. Avoid antibacterial soaps, cleansers and gels; most contain the chemical triclosan, which some researchers suspect of contributing to development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Instead, use a natural antibacterial gel or make one, by combining witch hazel or alcohol, tea tree oil and lavender essential oil.
Stay in the Sun
“The sun is our primary source of vitamin D, which has broad effects on the immune system,” Fuhrman says. “Depending on your skin tone and the local climate, about 15 minutes of full sun exposure a day will lead to natural production of sufficient amounts of vitamin D.” If kids have dark skin or live in a cloudy region, they may need vitamin D supplements—at least 200 IU per day.
Laugh Out Loud
“You can give your kids the best food and nutrition, but if they have underlying sadness, their immune system will suffer,” remarks Sheppard. “When you’re happy and when you laugh, your brain releases chemicals that increase immunity.” Lisa Turner is a Colorado-based health writer.
inspiration
Be Happy Now Simple Ways to Quickly Lift Your Spirits by April Thompson
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inger-songwriter Pharrell Williams, whose infectious hit song, “Happy,” has spread joy worldwide, seems to know the secret to happiness. More than 1,500 people from 140-plus countries have posted their own happy video spinoffs at WeAreHappyFrom.com, inspired by his daylong music video featuring Los Angeles residents from all walks of life dancing and lip-syncing to the tune. Can happiness really be just a finger snap away? It depends on our unit of measurement—a moment versus a lifetime. Research by such authorities as Psychologist Martin Seligman, Ph.D., director of the University of Pennsylvania Positive Psychology Center, suggests that several basic ingredients are keys to long-term happiness, including a sense of purpose, engaging activities, quality relationships and achievable goals. Ultimately, happiness is a subjective state, gauged only by personal perception. Still, there are quick, simple things we can do to shift our mood into a higher gear, according to Jonathan Robinson, author of Find Happiness Now: 50 Shortcuts for Bringing More Love, Balance, and Joy Into Your Life. “Broadly, happiness shortcuts fall into two categories— those that help in letting go of negative emotions and those that help in tuning into or expanding positive feelings,” says Robinson. “The end result is the same.”
Practice gratitude. When the day’s affronts seem excessive, we can reframe them by counting our blessings mentally or in a journal. Review the day with an eye to everything that went right. “Soon, you’ll start to see everything as a gift,” observes Robinson. Pencil it in. Take a few moments at the start of each week to block out a little time every day for happy activities. Pay it forward. It doesn’t take much to make someone’s day, advises Robinson. Give someone a compliment or a piece of chocolate and watch their attitude instantly change, which in turn lifts you into their happy cloud. Sing and dance. Williams applies this secret: Moving our bodies and vibrating our vocal chords helps shake us out of our mental cages. “It’s hard to feel bad when you sing. It’s a choice: You can stay angry for four hours or sing for 15 seconds,” Robinson notes. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple jumpstart to happiness. Research from the University of Arizona shows that as little as a forced smile not only releases stress-fighting neuropeptides and mood-lifting serotonin in the brain, it activates a chain reaction of happiness around us. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.
This fall, the University of California-Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center will host the first public online course on the Science of Happiness. According to Dacher Keltner, Ph.D., professor of psychology and founding director of the center, the university’s meta-analysis of research indicates that 50 percent of our happiness level is tied to genetics, while only 10 percent stems from our environment. “Therefore, about 40 percent of your happiness is up to you,” remarks Keltner. Students will learn practical, scientifically tested strategies for nurturing their own happiness and tracking progress. Sign up to audit the free course, which has already attracted 40,000 registrants, at Tinyurl.com/UCLA-Happiness. natural awakenings
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calendarofevents
back on the go. $20/member, $40/nonmember. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd. Register: 972-985-2241.
NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the first Monday of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NA-NTX.com (within advertising section). Changes to events may occur after print date of this magazine. Always call ahead to confirm all details.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1 Great Texas Balloon Race and Festival – Aug 1-3. Each morning the balloons take flight with navigational tasks and competitions. Activities include arts and crafts, carnival midway, food and drink, live music, and a Kids’ Land area. East Texas Regional Airport, 269 Terminal Cir, FM349, W Parking Entrance, Longview. Info & schedule: GreatTexasBalloonRace.com. First Friday Dance – 7-9:30pm. Refreshment served. Free dance lessons with paid admission of $5/person. Lewisville Senior Activity Center, 1950A S Valley Pkwy, Lewisville. 972-219-5050.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 Melon Dash 5K & Fun Run – 7:45am, fun run; 8:15am, 5K. Portion of proceeds given to support the North Texas Cat Rescue. A family-friendly atmosphere with watermelon for everyone, sprinklers, live music, free beer and many activities for kids. Intersection of Davis & Tennessee, McKinney. Info & registration by July 31: RunProject.org. Documentary Filmmaking 101 Workshop – Aug 2, 9, 16. 9am-12pm. Get the know-how and insight to creating short documentaries. Participants must have access to a camera, know how to edit and be able to attend all 3 sessions. Ages 11-18. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. 940-349-8752. Along Came a Spider – 10-11:30am. Programs for ages 4-7 & 8-12. Learn all about spiders through learn games, stories and crafts. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, 6465 Refuge Rd, Sherman. Register: 903-786-2826. FriendsOfHagerman.com. Getting to Know your GoPro: GoPro Basics – 10am-12pm. Will focus on the camera’s user interface, video capture, image settings and accessories. Free. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd. Register: 972-985-2241.
LEGO Builders Club – 4:30pm. Drop-in and get creative by building with the library’s LEGOs. All LEGOs provided by the library (please don’t bring own). Ages 6 & older. Emily Fowler Library, 502 Oakland St, Denton. 940-349-8752.
Natural Networking Meeting: 3rd Thursday of each month, in Plano plants, how to make simple sprinkler repairs, and where to go for help. Free. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. More info & register: LiveGreenInPlano.obsres.com. Teen Crafting Club: Upcycle and Repurpose – 3pm. Come cool off, hang out and get creative while upcycling used objects into art. Theme: Collage. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. Registration required: 940-349-8752. Mindful Mommy To Be – 5-8pm. Nutrition, overcoming fears, birth planning, and how chiropractic care benefits mother and baby. For couples to learn holistic support tools for a successful pregnancy. $20/ couple. HealthWorks, 2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano. Deja Erwin: 972-612-1800. HealthWorksTX.com. Amazing YA Book Club – 7pm. If I Stay by Gayle Forman. All grownup but still love reading young adult books? Meet 1st Tues to discuss YA books with other adult fans. Emily Fowler Library, 502 Oakland St, Denton. Stacey Irish-Keffer: 940-349-8718.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
Soil Amendments Class – 11am-12:30pm. Biodiversity Education Center, 367 Freeport Pkwy, Coppell. CoppellCommunityGarden.org.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 3
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7
TUESDAY, AUGUST 5 Preschool Science Play: Magnets – 10am. Learn and explore with different science play stations. Ages 3-5. Denton Public Library, South Branch, 3228 Teasley Ln, Denton. Registration required: 940-349-8752. Irrigation Quick Fixes – 10-11:30am. Do you irrigate wisely? Learn how and when to water your
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7 Talk to the Animals – 7-9pm. Join us for this book club evening and receive the Talk to the Animals Book as well as tips and tools for communicating with your animal right away. $35. Dallas Meditation Center, 727 S Floyd Rd, Richardson. Life-nMotion, Lona Smith: 469-583-3043.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8
Christian Women Business Networking – 11am1pm. Speaker: Deborah Collins on Rahab: Harlot, Heroine & Entrepreneur. Fellowship and networking with other professional Christian women. Meet for lunch, prayer, inspiration and a “Spiritual Vitamin.” Prestonwood Country Club, 15909 Preston Rd, Dallas. For reservation & details, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: ExceptionalWomen.org.
Bird Walk – 7-10am. Bring binoculars and field guides if have them, and learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, both with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. Can expect about 30+ species. All ages welcome. Connemara Meadow Preserve, 300 Tatum Rd, Allen. ConnemaraConservancy.org.
savethedate
Vision Quest Class – 7-8pm. Will discuss the importance of why one would feel the need for a personal vision quest. $12. Four Feathers Trading Post, 3522 County Rd 2621, Caddo Mills. For details, Prayerwalker: 214-283-7092.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 ABC’s of Bats – 10-11:30am. Join amateur bat expert and enthusiast Dr. Bryon Clark, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, for our first bat presentation in several years. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, 6465 Refuge Rd, Sherman. Register: 903786-2826. FriendsOfHagerman.com. DIY Drip Irrigation – 10-11:30am. Drip irrigation is 90 percent more efficient, inexpensive and easy to install. Drip systems promote healthy plants and conserve water use. Learn how to install your own system. Free. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. More info & register: LiveGreenInPlano.obsres.com.
savethedate SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 Access Energetic Facelift – 12-4pm. Reverse the appearance of aging on the face without invasive procedures. No needles, no surgery, no down-time, no recovery, no pain, no fillers/toxins. Beauty without pain. Life-n-Motion, Lona Smith. $200. Dallas Meditation Center, 727 S Floyd Rd, Richardson. For an appt, Lona: 469-583-3043.
Denton Community Theatre Roadshow – 3pm & 4pm. The 3pm performance designed for individuals with special needs. See actors from the Denton Community Theatre bring to life stories, songs, and poems that promote the Summer Reading Club “Fizz, Boom, READ!” theme. Ages 3 & older. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. 940-349-8778. Gregg the Balloon Guy’s Magic Show – 4pm. See Gregg’s amazing magic show and balloon twisting. Ages 5 & older. Denton Public Library, South Branch, 3228 Teasley Ln, Denton. 940-349-8752. Hands-On Bike Maintenance: Fix A Flat – 6-7:45pm. Our bike techs will share tips and tricks for fixing a flat, changing your bike tube and getting
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Friendship/Veggie Day – 1-3pm. A casual day to make new friends and be yourself. We will gather together as family/friends to relax in good company and we will also be eating vegetarian style. Free. Four Feathers Trading Post, 3522 County Rd 2621, Caddo Mills. For details, Prayerwalker: 214-283-7092. Night Hike: Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center – 8:30-10:30pm. Join our trail guides as they lead a moonlit stroll through the woods and across the prairie. $10 for hike plus admission. 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. Registration required: 972219-3930 or LisaCole@unt.edu.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 It’s a Girl Thing – 4pm. The Giver by Lois Lowry. A book club for moms and daughters. Join us for refreshments and book discussion. Best for girls ages 9-12. Denton Public Library, South Branch, 3228 Teasley Ln, Denton. 940-349-8752.
savethedate TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 Free Access BARS Sessions – 4-9pm. You are invited to sample our services and meet us. Lona and Trisha will be gifting free 20-minute sessions of Access Consciousness Bars. Life-nMotion, Lona Smith. Dallas Meditation Center, 727 S Floyd Rd, Richardson. For an appt, Lona: 469-583-3043. Teen Advisory Board – 6:30-8pm. Help plan and run library programs. Discuss books, movies and music. Work on service related projects and earn community service hours. Ages 11-18. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. For more info, Juli Gonzalez: 940-349-8741.
savethedate TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 Dallas Sierra Club Meeting – 7-8:30pm. See live raptors (hawks, owls, falcons) up close and personal. A family-friendly event. Bring cameras for pictures of yourself with raptors. Free. REI Dallas, 4515 Lyndon B Johnson Freeway, Dallas. Kirk Miller: 972-699-1687.
& cases. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. Registration required: 940-349-8752.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 14 SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) Basics – 7-8pm. Learn about SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) and get “on board.” An overview of SUP and the necessary equipment. Free. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd. Register: 972-985-2241.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15
savethedate FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 Lions Club Balloon Festival & Fair – Aug 15-17. See 15+ hot air balloons floating serenely over the park along with many other crowdpleasing activities. Balloon ascensions, balloon glows, and tethered balloon rides. A 5k & 1k Hot Air Race held Aug 16. Admission free; $5 donation for parking. Unity Park, 2200 Briarhill Blvd, Highland Village. For complete details: LionsBalloonFest.com.
savethedate FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 North Texas Fair & Rodeo – Aug 15-23. Enjoy live concerts, nightly rodeos, a midway with rides for all ages, carnival games, the rodeo queen contest, a beauty pageant and a kid’s zone, food/beverages and much more. $15/adults, $5/ children 7-12, free/children 6 & under; $5/parking. North Texas Fairgrounds, 2217 N Carroll Blvd, Denton. Info & schedule: NTFair.com. Quilt Plano 2014 – Aug 15 & 16. 9am-5pm. More than 300 quilts on display in a juried show in a wide variety of styles. Dozens of free skill demonstrations presented and more than 45 vendors with tools and supplies. $8, $7/age 62 & up, free/age 12 & under free. Plano Centre, 2000 E Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano. QuiltersGuildOfPlano.org.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13
LEGO Builders Club – 4:30pm. Drop-in and get creative by building with the library’s LEGOs. All LEGOs provided by the library (please don’t bring own). Ages 6 & older. Emily Fowler Library, 502 Oakland St, Denton. 940-349-8752.
Teen Crafting Club: Upcycle and Repurpose – 3pm. Come cool off, hang out and get creative while upcycling used objects into art. Theme: CDs/DVDs
Free Vision Screening – Aug 15 & 16. 5-7pm, Fri; 12-7pm, Sat. For ages 6 months & up. The Highland Village Lions Club is conducting free vi-
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sion at the Hot Air Balloon Festival using the Spot vision screener by PediaVision, a photorefractor that takes a picture of the inside of the eye and is able to screen for seven different eye problems. 2200 Briarhill Blvd, Highland Village. More info: LionsBalloonFest.com. Stars on the Prairie – 8:30-10:30pm. Learn about the night sky on a real Texas prairie. $5 program plus $5 entrance. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. RSVP required: Erin Taylor: 972-219-3930, Erin.Taylor@unt.edu.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19 Teen Book Club – 7pm. Maze Runner by James Dashner. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. 940-349-8752.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20 DIY Drip Irrigation – 10-11:30am. Drip irrigation is 90 percent more efficient, inexpensive and easy to install. Drip systems promote healthy plants and conserve water use. Learn how to install your own system. Free. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. More info & register: LiveGreenInPlano.obsres.com. Cowboy StoryTime – 11am. Kick off the North Texas State Fair and Rodeo with this cowboythemed StoryTime with stories, songs, puppets and crafts. Ages 1-5. Emily Fowler Library, 502 Oakland St, Denton. 940-349-8752.
savethedate WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20 Weston A. Price Plano TX Chapter Meeting – 6-7:30pm. Tired of confusing nutrition “trends?” Learn how to prepare and eat traditional foods like our ancestors with practical steps for changing your diet. Meet others and share tips. Free. HealthWorks, 2317 Coit Rd, Ste B, Plano. Shari Miles: 972-612-1800. HealthWorksTX.com. North Texas Environment Meetup – 7:30pm. Topic: Lobbying For Change. Also will discuss latest environmental news. Meet other like-minded environmentally-conscious people. Snappy Salads, 5930 W Park Blvd, Plano. Meetup.com/Environmentalists.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 21 Natural Networking: Lunch & Learn – 11:30am1pm. Business owners and professionals who help people live better by promoting health, wellness, sustainability, personal growth, integrative medicine, healthy kids and pets, financial well-being and
peace of mind, please join us as we connect our community. Meets 3rd Thurs each month. Open group. Menu includes salads and gluten-free pizza. Hosted by Natural Awakenings North Texas Magazine. Networking is $10 (cash only) or support our host restaurant by purchasing your own lunch and there is no charge for meeting. Held at Palio’s Pizza Café, 1941 Preston Rd, Ste 1004, Plano. RSVP important; space limited. Leave your details on our RSVP hotline: 469-322-9549 or NAMS@NA-NTX.com. Hands-On Bike Maintenance: Trail/Roadside Repair – 6-8:30pm. Learn what to do when you are on your ride and the unexpected happens. Get tips and tricks to help you triage the situation in the field to keep you riding. $45/member, $65/nonmember. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd. Register: 972-985-2241. Boys Only Yucky Stories – 6:30pm. Bad Kitty: School Daze by Nick Bruel. Boys grades 2-5 read and talk about funny, yucky and gross stories. Includes craft project. Emily Fowler Library, 502 Oakland St, Denton. 940-349-8752. Dallas DownRiver 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.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 Back to School Celebration – 2pm. Celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of school with back-to-school crafts, activities, and a special reading of Ready and Waiting for You by Judi Moreillon. Ages 5-11. Denton Public Library, North Branch, 600 N Locust St, Denton. 940-349-8752. Bat Fest – 4pm-12am. Features 150 booths exhibiting fine art, handmade crafts, educational displays, children activities, live music, local foods and more. $10, free/age 10 & under. Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, 100 Congress Ave, Austin. BatFest.com.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24 Connemara Meadow Preserve Open House – 7-11am. Experience what makes this natural oasis in the middle of suburbia so special, and always surprising. Free. Connemara Meadow Preserve, 300 Tatum Rd, Allen. ConnemaraConservancy.org. Drum/Sing Circle – 12-2pm. We will drum the heartbeat of Mother Earth, and sing songs of honor to her, native style. Free. Four Feathers Trading Post, 3522 County Rd 2621, Caddo Mills. For details, Prayerwalker: 214-283-7092.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26 WASTECON – Aug 26-28. Industry-focused conference that brings solid waste professionals the latest education, advancements and products to help achieve success in business. Hosted by the Solid Waste Association of North America. Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine. More info: swana.org/Events/ WASTECON.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 28 Backpacking Basics – 7-8pm. REI will take the mystery out of backpacking with an overview of planning, preparation and gear. Learn how to choose a pack, select proper clothing and footwear. Free. REI Plano, 2424 Preston Rd. Register: 972-985-2241.
plan ahead FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 26th Annual National Cowboy Symposium & Celebration – Sept 5-7. 9am-10pm. Includes entertainers, poetry and storytelling, Western author panels, film and movie seminars, a Youth Wild West Day, horse-handling demos, Chuck Wagon Cookoff, exhibits of Western artworks and merchandise, and much more. $12/adults, $9/seniors; $5/ages 12-17, free/ ages 11 & under. Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 1501 Mac Davis Ln, Lubbock. 806-7987825. Cowboy.org.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Bird Walk – 7-10am. Bring binoculars and field guides if have them, and learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, both with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. Can expect about 30+ species. All ages welcome. Connemara Meadow Preserve, 300 Tatum Rd, Allen. ConnemaraConservancy.org. Horsemanship Day Camp – 10am-3pm. Ages 7 & up. Adults welcome. We can set up an all adult class for a minimum of 6 adults. Camp Tonkawa Outdoor Learning Center, Inc, 1036 CR 203, Collinsville. Details: 940-440-8382 or CampTonkawaTexas.com.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Tour des Fleurs – 7am, 20K; 7:40am, 10K. A USA Track and Field sanctioned event. Includes a post-race celebration at the Dallas Arboretum for live entertainment, food vendors and adult beverages. White Rock Lake, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. 214-515-6500. Register: TourDesFleurs.org. More info: DallasArboretum.org.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Rubber Duck Regatta & Duck Fest – A fun, family‑friendly event guaranteed to be a quackin’ good time. Entertainment for all ages, including games, food, Family Fun Run, 5K run, and rubber duck races. The Harbor (City Park), 2074 Summer Lee Dr, Rockwall. RockwallDuckRace.org.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Renewable Energy Roundup and Green Living Fair – Sept 26-28. 10am-6pm, Fri; 9am-6pm, Sat; 9am-3pm, Sun. Features presentations & demos; green & sustainable building; water use & reuse; energy efficiency; organic growing; renewable energy; alternative transportation; community and personal action; children’s activities. $8/day; $20/3-day pass. Bell County Exposition Center, Belton. More info & to register: TheRoundup.org.
Seeds with Donelle Simmons – 11am-12:30pm. Held at Coppell Community Garden. More info: CoppellCommunityGarden.org.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 TREIA Board Meeting – 9am-4pm. TREIA members invited to join the TREIA Board as we review our current status and recent events and activities and as we continue to plan upcoming activities such as the Renewable Energy Roundup and Green Living Fair, the annual Texas Renewables conference in Nov, and other smaller regional networking and/ or training events. Location TBD. For more info, Russel Smith: 512-345-5446, RSmith@treia.org.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Basics of Backyard Composting – 7-9pm. Learn the basics of turning garden debris into garden gold through composting. Cover what to put in, what to leave out, and how to mix, moisten and manage. Also learn to use specialized red worms to compost food waste. Free. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. More info & register: LiveGreenInPlano.obsres.com.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
savethedate FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Conscious Horse Conscious Rider/ESSE – Sept 12-14. 9:30am-5:30pm. What if there is a different possibility for you and your horse? Create a different connection with your horse; learn the energy language of animals and clear blockages your horse has locked into its body in this hands-on class. $595. Noble Champion Sport Horses, 1302 S Duncanville Rd, Cedar Hill. Lona Smith: 469-583-3043.
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ongoingcalendar NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the first Monday of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NA-NTX.com (within advertising section).
sunday Western Days Festival – Sept 26-27. 7-11:30pm, Fri; 10am-11:30pm, Sat. Old Town Lewisville will be filled with staged gunfights, stick horse rodeo riders, world champion competitive eaters, gourmet chefs, Old West artifacts and the best of Texas country music. For more info: LewisvilleWesternDays.com.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
savethedate SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Murphy Maize Days Celebration – 8am, fun run; 8:30am, 5k; 10am-8pm, festival. Includes live music, a 5K and 1-mile Fun Run, Kidz Zone, family-friendly activities, fireworks and more. Vendors will sell handmade crafts, art and food and beverages. Free. Murphy Municipal Complex, 206 N Murphy Rd, Murphy. 972-468-4018. MurphyMaizeDays.com.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
savethedate MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Online Conscious Conception Course – begins Monday, September 29. Want to do everything you can to ensure a healthy baby and a comfortable pregnancy? The greatest opportunity exists before you conceive. Join us for this engaging, online course and enter pregnancy 100% confident! ThinkingOfBaby.com.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
savethedate TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Dinner Tonight Healthy Cooking School – 6pm, registration; 6:30-8:30pm, class. Learn how easy and quick it is to prepare a healthy dinner for your family that is budget friendly. See demos; learn healthy and economical meal preparation ideas, discover new culinary tips and food preparation techniques. $20 before Aug 31; $25 after. Collin College Preston Ridge Campus Conference Center, 9700 Wade Blvd, Frisco. Register: 877847-9355 or TexasHealth.org/Dinner-Tonight. Green Seminar: Build Your Own Rain Barrel – 6:30-8pm. Learn about rainwater harvesting and build own barrel. Find out how to collect and direct the rain in ways that create backyard beauty, lessen the dependence on using city water in the garden, and reduce runoff. $50/barrel. Fire Station #7, 861 S Independence Pkwy, McKinney. Info & register: 972-547-7335, Green@McKinneyTexas.org.
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Sunday Morning Rides – Various start times and lengths. Richardson Bikemart, Southeast corner of Campbell Rd & Coit Rd, in the front parking lot. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 972-231-3993. Teen/Adult Horse Club – 11am-5pm. Do you have horse experience, but wish to ride and learn more? Join the Camp Tonkawa Horse club. This Sunday club is for Adults, children come on Saturdays, Homeschoolers on Mondays. $15. Camp Tonkawa Outdoor Learning Center, Inc, 1036 CR 203, Collinsville. For restrictions & details: 940-440-8382 or CampTonkawaTexas.com/Classes/Horse_club.shtml. 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. Nature Explore Family Club – 3-4pm. 1st Sun. Also 1st Mon, 9-10am. Event aims to connect children and families with nature through fun, ageappropriate activities. Free. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano. Register: LiveGreenInPlano.obsres.com.
monday savethedate MONday Robert Muller School: Tea, Talk, Tour – 9:30am. 1st Mon. We invite you to come learn more about our heart-centered, scientific, loving, intuitive and co-creative approach to learning. Robert Muller School, 340 Country Club Rd, Fairview. RSVP requested: 214-544-8338. CenterFor-LivingEthics.org. 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. Angela’s Open Mic Night – 6pm. Grab your guitar, keyboard, banjo, etc and come show us what you got. Also offer live music every Thurs, Fri & Sat in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere where we feature comfort food and great spirits. Free. Angela’s at the Crosswalk, 1010 E 15th, Plano. 972-633-9500. AngelasCrosswalk.com.
Beekeeping Meeting – 6:30pm. 2nd Mon. Beginner to experienced keepers welcome, ages 8-80. Free. Collin County Hobby Beekeepers Association meets at HeardCraig Center, 205 W Hunt St, McKinney. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 972-843-8084. CCHBA.org. Monday Night Ride at Arbor Hills – 6:30pm. Bring bike, helmet and light. Meet at the trail head at Arbor Hills. More info: DORBA.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.
savethedate monday Dinner and a Chair Massage – Thru Aug 20. 7-9pm. Luxury Sweet Escape Spa will be offering free chair massages to introduce new clients to their services. Buffalo Bluez Restaurant, 4200 Legacy Dr, Plano. For more info: 940-320-9383. 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 savethedate 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. 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. Yoga for Runners – 6:45-7:45pm. 20-wk program, less than $8/session. Luke’s Locker, 959 Garden Park Dr, Allen. For details & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 469-854-6244. 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.
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.
Sport Watch Tech Clinics – 6:30pm. 2nd Wed. Garmin, Polar, Nike, Times, Moto, Soleus. Luke’s Locker, 959 Garden Park Dr, Allen. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 469-854-6244.
thursday Grapevine Farmers’ Market – Thru Oct 18. 8am4pm, Thurs-Sat. Eat healthy with locally-grown produce and products. Town Square Gazebo, 325 S Main St, Grapevine. 817-793-8634. FarmersMarketOfGrapevine.com.
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.
wednesday Nature Awareness Club – 9:30am-2:30pm. 2nd Wed &/or Thurs; Club members choose one day each month. Learn about our local North Texas plants and animals, through activities, games, and nature walks. Bring your Nature Journals and pencils. Children 4 & up. $15. Camp Tonkawa Outdoor Learning Center, Inc, 1036 CR 203, Collinsville. Pre-registration required, mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 940-440-8382.
savethedate wednesday Business Opportunity: LegalShield – 11:45am1pm. Learn how to generate extra daily cash or full-time income sharing very affordable legal and identity theft plans by LegalShield. Work at your own pace and style; promote the casual referral to friends and family, or work business accounts, HR benefit plans or broad consumer markets. $15 includes entree, drink and gratuity. Razzoos, 3904 Dallas Pkwy, N of Parker Rd, Plano. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings, Pam: PamelaWidom@yahoo.com. Breastfeeding Cafe – 12-1pm. Designed to offer support to all nursing mothers from newborn challenges to toddler strikes, all breastfeeding moms welcome to join us to chat about breastfeeding at all ages and stages of nursing. Cafe is attended by a Certified Lactation Counselor and/or Le Leche League Leader. Baby scale available to do before and after weights. You may turn up at any time during the cafe to ask your questions. Free. 3253 Independence Pkwy, Plano. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 469-371-5448.
The Blackland Prairie Raptor Center Presentation at the Dallas Sierra Club Meeting: Aug. 12, in Dallas 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). All welcome, ages 18 & up. Free. Buy own lunch if wish to eat. For details, Brandy Miles & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 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. 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: 972-548-5167. Evening Social Runs/Walks – 6:30pm. Post party new restaurant each 6 weeks. All levels welcome. Luke’s Locker, 959 Garden Park Dr, Allen. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 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.
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. McKinney Farmers’ Market at Adriatica – 3-7pm or sellout. Local and organic meat, dairy and produce vendors. 6851 Virginia Pkwy, W McKinney. 972562-8790. McKinneyFarmersMarket.com. 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. Fitness in the Square (FITS): Part of Be Fit Frisco – 6:30-7:30pm. A free one-hour exercise class in the courtyard in front of Frisco City Hall. For kids 10+ to adults. Bring water, towel, and appropriate clothing and shoes. The type of workout changes each month. Bring your family and move together. Be Fit Frisco, Frisco City Hall Square, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd. 972-292-6501. Greater Dallas Organic Garden Club – 6:308:30pm. 4th Thurs except Nov & Dec. Hear local speakers presenting a variety of topics. REI, 4515 LBJ Freeway, Dallas. gdogc.org. Power Yoga – 6:45-7:45pm. In conjunction with Luke’s Locker Allen, class meets at Allen Yoga Center, 915 Market St, Allen. Details & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 469-854-6244.
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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.
CFM@CoppellCommunityGarden.org. CoppellCommunityGarden.org. McKinney Farmers’ Market at Chestnut Square – 8am-12pm. Local and organic meat, dairy and produce vendors. Locally grown and produced food and craft items. Live music. 315 S Chestnut St, McKinney. 972-562-8790. McKinneyFarmersMarket.com.
Men’s Only Pilates – 8pm. Class utilizes all the Pilates equipment. $15. Pilates for Life, 103 W Belmont Dr, Allen. 214-704-3070.
Saint Michael’s Farmers’ Market – Thru early Nov. 8am-12pm. Shop local and fresh, with farmers/ growers who practice natural, sustainable, organic farming and are within a 150-mile radius of Dallas County. Baked goods, tamales, cheeses, eggs, local honey, meats, and pastas also available. Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 8011 Douglas Ave at Colgate Rd, Dallas. SaintMichaelsMarket.com.
friday Free Mom & Kids Yoga – 5:30-6pm. 1st Fri. Find out how our Multisensory Kids Yoga can help improve your child’s focus and grades while keeping you both fit at the same time. SMARTS Club, 8780 Preston Trace Blvd, Frisco. Registration required & mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 214872-8592. 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. Acoustic Jam Session – 7pm. Weekly open jam and song circle. All acoustic instruments and levels welcome. All music genres welcome. Sponsored by the Visual Art League of Lewisville. Free. MCL Grand, 100 N Charles, Lewisville. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 469-444-0825. 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. 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. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 972-235-1400.
saturday Denton Rugby – We are always looking for new recruits in Dallas Fort Worth Area. Email for more info about how to join. Currently we have players that live in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Keller, Southlake, Frisco and many others. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings to Jason Millerd: JMillerd@TWU.edu.
Murphy Maize Days Celebration: Sept. 27, in Murphy Pathfinders Fun Cycling – A free, non-competitive riding group for all cycling skill levels. Short, weekly bicycle rides for the purpose of fun and exercise. All rides held on the weekend, less than 20 miles and include a food destination and a “no rider left behind” policy. Routes and destinations change each week. For more info: Facebook.com/ CycleHighlandVillage. 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. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings: 972231-3993. 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. Coppell Farmers’ Market – 8am-12pm. Seasonal produce for the North Texas area, natural meats and eggs, seafood, organic dairy products, honey, teas, breads, mixes, flowers, plants, and more. Coppell Farmers’ Market, Corner of Bethel & S Coppell Rds, Coppell. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings:
Frisco Farmers’ Market – Thru Oct. 8am-1pm. A bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables creates a colorful welcome to those who appreciate the “buy fresh, buy local” idea. Frisco Square Blvd, Frisco. FriscoFarmersMarket.org. 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. Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Waste Collection Program – 9am-12pm. 2nd Sat. For Lewisville residents; must bring driver’s license for proof of residency. A convenient, safe and environmentally sound way to get rid of waste materials that should not be put into the landfill. City of Lewisville Residential Convenience Center, 330 W Jones St. CityOfLewisville.com. Collin County Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. Features Texas-grown produce and meats, locally made products and a community center to learn about green and healthy living. Fairview Farms, 3314 N Central Expressway, Plano. 970-209-4694. CollinCountyFarmersMarket.org. 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. Power Yoga Flow – 10-11:15am. With Crystal. Designed for proficient to advanced yoga students. Build strength and flexibility in this challenging and invigorating class. Meet and practice outdoors on our beautiful deck. $15 or class pass. Pilates for Life, 200 S Austin Dr, Allen. 214-704-3070. Pilates-ForLife.com.
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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. 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. 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. Frisco Humane Society Adoption – 12-4pm. 1st, 3rd & 5th Sat. We invite you to meet and greet some of the wonderful dogs and cats available for adoption from Frisco Humane Society. PetSmart in Frisco, 3333 Preston Rd. 972-498-8980.
Stargeezer Star Party – 6:30-9:30pm. 1st Sat. Bring the whole family. Star parties begin at sunset, weather permitting. Free. Spring Park, Jonandrea Ln, Garland. TASObserving.org. Frisco StarFest – Sunset-10:30pm. 2nd Sat. Approximately a dozen telescopes will be set up for your viewing pleasure. Weather permitting. Free. Frisco Commons Park. TASObserving.org.
daily Dairy Farm Tours – By appt only. Experience life on a dairy farm with an educational tour including how and what cows are fed, the benefits of grass-crop based feed (silage), the milking parlor, bottle feeding baby calves along with the learning the benefits of drinking raw milk vs pasteurized milk. Everyone gets samples of milk and treat bags for the children. $5/person age 2 & up. Circle N Dairy, 2074 CR 446 Gainesville. 940-372-0343. CircleNDairy.com. First Aid Classes, CPR & Babysitter Training – Various days. Monthly at various branches. For specific info on cost, space availability, times: YMCADallas.org.
savethedate DAILY Free Vitamin and Supplement Reviews – Thru Aug. With certified nutritionists at Healthworks Mart. A review of what people have on hand to help understand what taking, how it should be taken and whether to continue, discontinue or change to a different product. Healthworks Mart, Independence & Park, Plano. Appt recommended: 972-516-1740. HealthWorksMart.com.
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.
Project Passenger Pigeon – Aug 1-Oct 31. Once described as being so numerous that they obscured the sun when in flight, the passenger pigeon is now extinct. The Heard is one of the few educational facilities in the state of Texas with a specimen in its collection. $6-$9. Heard Museum, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. HeardMuseum.org.
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.
Dallas Farmers’ Market – 8am-6pm. Year round. One-stop shop for all your produce, meat, floral and specialty-food needs. Farmers from 150 miles around come to give you the chance to “buy locally.” 1010 S Pearl Expwy, Dallas. DallasFarmersMarket.org.
classifieds For fees and info on placing classifieds, email publisher@NA-NTX.com. Deadline is noon on the 9th of the month. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY LegalShield – Generate extra cash or full time income sharing legal and identity theft plans by LegalShield. The services offered by LegalShield give members great peace-of-mind, knowing that for as little as $20 a month they can have on-going access to top level attorneys to help advise them in matters from traffic tickets to final arrangements. New members get free assistance in preparing their will. Associates receive their own website, online and local support from other LegalShield associates. Work at your own pace and style; promote the casual referral to friends and family, or work business accounts, HR benefit plans or broad consumer markets. Interested candidates may attend a luncheon, held weekly at Razzoo's in Plano to learn more about the plans and the opportunity. $15 covers entree, beverage and gratuity. RSVP required. Mention North Texas Natural Awakenings, and email Pam: PamelaWidom@yahoo.com. Visit www.M79. legalshieldassociate.com.
CAREER OPPORTUNITY BECOME A DENTAL ASSISTANT – This unique 10-week course is designed to provide you the core concepts you will need to get started. In this unique program, practicing dentists and experienced dental assistants give you maximum hands-on training and experience in an actual dental office setting. Reasonable cost. Short timeframe. Saturdays only. For more info, call 214-789-2011 or visit CDofCarrollton.com.
HELP WANTED SALESPEOPLE WANTED – If you’re not afraid of straight commissioned sales and feel confident of your abilities, Natural Awakenings North Texas magazine may be right for you. Earn a generous commission and unlimited income selling advertising packages. Relationship-oriented sales; must like talking to people. Open territories in Denton and Collin counties. Will train and coach. Full and part-time sales positions available. Send resume to Publisher@NA-NTX.com.
OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE Beautiful office space available – inside acupuncturist's office. Prefer massage therapist, medical massage therapist, acupuncturist, craniosacral therapist, etc. Possible second room also available. Cross referral opportunities. Great location in Plano, on the beautiful Chisholm Trail. Fee includes all utilities, no "add-ons". Contact Patti Carey, L.Ac.: 972-704-3730. FOR LEASE – UPSCALE OFFICE PROPERTY – Customize this 1,600 sq ft space to suit your professional or medical office needs. Free standing building with one side currently occupied by a dental office. Great location. Excellent visibility. In Carrollton just minutes from highways 121 and 35. Call Ms. Krishan: 832-545-1243.
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communityresourceguide Connecting you with local businesses and experts in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email publisher@NA-NTX. c o m . ( Leaf symbol indicates green business. Dollar symbol represents businesses offering coupons through NA-NTX.com/DFWDeals)
aCupunCTure aCupunCTure & herBs
Xie Yin, L.Ac., M.D. (China) 9555 Lebanon Rd, Bldg 10, Ste 1003 Frisco 75035 972-335-2626 • YinsClinic.com Our goal is to provide effective, all-natural ad drug free solutions to infertility, stress, pain relief, allergies, migraine, and more. Whether you are dealing with health issues that are affecting your life quality or seeking to enhance your wellness, acupuncture can help you. Trained in China with more than 24 years of experience in acupuncture and herbal medicine. See ad, page 13.
daphne aCupunCTure CenTer
Daphne Su, L.Ac. 4101 Spring Creek Pkwy, Ste 200, Plano 75024 972-665-8618 • DaphneAcupunctureCenter.com
Brain Training geT your head in The game
Robin Bollinger, Licensed IM Trainer Near Preston Rd and Main St, Frisco 214-693-9601 • PerformanceRev.wordpress.com Interactive Metronome training (IM) is a drug free, performance enhancement program that improves your brain-body connections. IM can help you reduce stress, improve concentration and focus, optimize opportunities to learn, improve performance in work-life or sports, recover from brain trauma, and overcome lifelong challenges many people think are "normal". See ad, page 11.
ChiropraCTiC spinal deCompression and ChiropraCTiC CenTer
I'm a third generation Chinese Medicine doctor (China) and dedicated to helping people live a physically healthy and emotionally balanced life. Through acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, I help my patients with pain management as well as relief from allergies, arthritis, asthma, Bell's palsy, fibromyalgia, insomnia, infertility, high blood pressure, headaches and more. See ad, page 16.
Dr. Vince Baugher, D.C. 2500 Lillian Miller Pkwy, Denton 76210 940-484-6336 • SpinalDecompression.net
paTTi Carey, l.aC.
synergy BalanCe
Acupuncture, Herbs & Nutrition 2121 W Spring Creek Pkwy, Ste 107 Plano 75023 972-704-3730 • PattiCareyLAC.com After years in Western medicine, I finally found a way to really help people heal, relieve pain and reduce stress. In my practice I utilize acupuncture (with or without needles), herbal medicine, nutrition and energetics to help you create and maintain the healthy body you deserve. See ad, page 41.
ayurveda The BalanCed yogi
Peggy Breeze 972-658-1600 • TheBalancedYogi.com Achieve optimal health with Ayurveda, the ancient healing practice that balances body, mind, and spirit. I provide comprehensive assessments that uncover your imbalances, create customized diet and lifestyle plans to help you achieve your wellness goals, offer Ayurvedic therapies and online consultations. Let me help you harmonize and energize your life.
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In delivering quality chiropractic care, our approach is simple, gentle and relaxing. We have been able to save literally hundreds of patients from surgery with the new technology of Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 2.
Dr. Cecilia Yu, D.C.; NUCCA practitioner 12740 Hillcrest Road, Ste 138, Dallas 75230 972-387-4700 • MySynergyBalance.com By aligning the first vertebrae through a precise NUCCA adjustment, Dr. Yu eliminates nerve interference from the brain stem. Such interference can manifest itself in any manner including Scoliosis, skin conditions, behavioral disorders, herniated discs or joint problems. Unlike traditional chiropractic, even traditional upper-cervical chiropractic, there is no popping, cracking or twisting and a NUCCA adjustment holds longer which means you return far less often. See ad, page 17.
Comprehensive healThCare healThWorks
2317 Coit Road, Ste B, Plano 75075 972-612-1800 Whole body & lifestyle healthcare rejuvenating your body from the inside out. Comprehensive healthcare— naturally. Visit our website to view our schedule of free workshops. See ad, page 14.
dairy CirCle n Family dairy
Michelle and Tommy Neu 4 Miles West of I-35; on US 82, Lindsay 76240 940-372-0343 • CircleNDairy.com State-permitted dairy licensed to sell fresh, all natural unprocessed grade A raw milk. Visit us at the farm to learn why our great-tasting, fresh, raw milk is a safe and naturally healthier choice for your family. Call us to schedule a tour to see a working family farm and be sure to visit our on-site store for fresh raw white and chocolate milk, cream, free-range eggs and more. See ad, page 33.
deCluTTering / organiZing serviCes The deCluTTerBug
Anita Sisler 339-832-1220 • TheDeclutterbug.biz Now is a perfect time to declutter. Let me help you turn cluttered areas of your home into perfect, peaceful spaces. Moving? I can help you with the process of decluttering while packing up your home and/or unpacking and making your new home cozy. Serving the North Texas area. See ad, page 39.
denTisTry denTal sTudio oF CarrollTon Drs. Robert and Sandhya 2005 W Hebron Pkwy, Carrollton 75010 972-395-0150 • DSofCarrollton.com And 331 W Harwood Rd, Hurst 76054 817-282-4539
Approaching dentistry from a natural, whole body health perspective, we make teeth beautiful, keep them healthy and offer honest education on how balanced structures in the face/mouth can affect your overall health. Serving adults, children and apprehensive clients, at our state-of-the-art facility we offer the cutting-edge "DNA Appliance"; a small device which addresses snoring and sleep apnea, mercury free fillings and crowns, teeth whitening, Clear Braces, TMJ pain and much more. See ad, page 7.
dining pure plaTes
8549 Gaylord Pkwy, Ste 103, Frisco 214-494-8038 • Pure-Plates.com Fresh, perfectly portioned meals and delicious specialty drinks that taste great, are sustainably grown and provide specific health benefits.
shandiZ mediTerranean grill & markeT 4013 W Parker Rd, Plano 75093 972-943-8885
Halal meats, fresh produce, groceries and flat bread baked on-site.
The salad sTop
3685 Preston Rd, Frisco 75034 972-377-7867 Fresh and nutritious, locally grown food.
eduCaTion roBerT muller sChool
Vicki Johnston, Founding Director 340 Country Club Rd, Fairview 75069 214-544-8338 • CenterForLivingEthics.org Are you seeking a learning environment that nurtures the whole child? Children thrive in heartcentered relationships that cultivate whole-being intelligence through nature, creativity, discovery, storytelling, meaningful learning and individual projects. We welcome you to our monthly Tea, Talk and a Tour.
WilloW Bend aCademy
2220 Coit Rd, Ste 500, Plano 75075 972-599-7882 • WillowBendAcademy.com And 101 E Southwest Pkwy, Ste 101 Lewisville 75067 972-436-3839 • WillowBendAcademy.com SACS accredited educational alternative that offers individual-ized, mastery-based instruction for grades 4-12. On-campus and Home Study options. Middle and High School International are Students welcome. We provide Form I-20.
Farmers' markeT mCkinney Farmers’ markeTs Chestnut Square (Saturdays 8am-noon) 315 S Chestnut St, McKinney 75069 Adriatica Market (Thursdays 3-6pm) 6851 Virginia Pkwy, McKinney 75071
Buy your food from the people who grow it. Local and organic meat, dairy, honey and produce, entertainment and more. See ad, page 5.
FunCTional mediCine jenniFer engles, md
Functional and Nutritional Medicine 14330 Midway Rd, Building 1, Ste 121 Dallas 75244 972-930-0260 • JenniferEngelsMD.com As a licensed MD practicing functional and nutritional medicine, I find the possible nutritional deficiencies, food sensitivities, and hormonal imbalances that could be contributing to your symptoms. I identify your risk factors for breast cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and metabolic syndrome; then devise a personalized diet, nutrition and lifestyle program that can help minimize your risk factors and move you toward healing and optimum health.
green pesT ConTrol
holisTiC veTerinarian paWs & ClaWs peT hospiTal
naTural pesT soluTions
469-585-0234 • GuysInGreen.com Eco-friendly residential and commercial pest control using botanical products. We control all types of insect pests including termites, mosquitoes, ants, roaches and fleas without the use of harsh, dangerous chemicals. We offer programs from a single pest one time treatment to a comprehensive total protection plan. Call to schedule your Free inspection. See ad, page 17.
Shawn Messonnier 2145 W Park Blvd, Plano 75075 972-867-8800 • PetCareNaturally.com Offering drug-free treatments, antiaging medicine, holistic anesthesia, and blood testing for early diagnosis of cancer in healthy pets. See ad, page 38.
honey
hair salon
honey poT Farm
hair Color sTudios
9200 E Lebanon Rd, Ste 32, Frisco 75035 214-436-4955 • HairColorStudios.com Open seven days a week. Our coloring stylists love to work with the wonder-ful alternative products we have that are made from natural extracts and yogurt. These exquisite products, such as NAYO, Neuma and Moroccan Oil, actually do improve your hair quality so we in turn can help you look your most radiant while you're out-and-about. Whether you're simply sensitive to some of those harsher chemical lines or just want vibrant, beautiful, healthy hair you'll love our natural approach to how we treat your hair and overall beauty. Ask about free color consultation.
Money Family / Guy Money, Beekeeper McKinney 75070 • 972-829-3216 Honey as raw, local, organic, yummy and healthy as it gets. Our hives are in Collin and surrounding counties, and because our honey is straight from the hive, nothing added and never heat pasteurized, you get all the vitamins, minerals, live-enzymes, and pollens which are the allergyfighting benefits that are heat filtered out of most other store-bought honeys. Available at Frisco Farmers Market, McKinney Trade Days, Sprouts, Market Street or pick up at our home office. Look for the bee in cowboy boots! See ad, page 38.
hormone replaCemenT TWisT 25
healTh CoaCh
Bioidentical DHEA cream 888-489-4782 • Twist25.com
groovy BeeTs
Leann Forst, Board Certified Health Coach and Food Toxin Specialist 214-673-4788 • GroovyBeets.com
Improve your health and vigor. Lose weight. Feel better. Get out of pain. Take the toxins out of the food you're eating and eliminate or improve symptoms such as asthma, ADHD, allergies and more. Convenient, personal phone consultations and coaching with Board Certified Health Coach. Get guides, recipes, ideas, tips, encouragement, support, and accountability. Daily, weekly, monthly programs available.
holisTiC denTisTry denTal arTs oF plano
Dr. Angela Han, DDS 4701 W Park Blvd, Ste 201, Plano 75093 972-985-4450 • DentalArtsOfPlano.com Dr. Han specializes in cosmetic and Holistic dentistry including mercuryfree 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 10.
Twist 25 DHEA cream helps maintain hormones naturally. Sleep better at night, have energy and drive during the day, fight menopause and depression. Improve health to feel your best and look your best. Make Twist 25 part of your daily routine and get results.
john WoodWard, md
Medical City Dallas 7777 Forest Ln, Ste A-315, Dallas 75230 972-566-7870 • AboutHormones.org Dr. Woodward is a board certified Gynecologic Endocrinologist. He has been a pioneer in bio-identical hormone replacement for 30 years. He has been practicing medicine in Dallas since 1968 and specializes in hormone replacement for both men and women. His eight years of medical training were at Yale University School of Medicine and Yale-New Haven Medical Center. He is board certified in gynecology.
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hypnosis
massage
innovaTive visions, inC.
Donna Brown, Clinical Hypnotist, NLP Quorum Dr, Addison 75254 972-687-9010 • DonnaBrownHypnosis.com Are you in a toxic relationship? Has day to day living produced crushed hopes, crumpled feelings, or a can'tdo attitude? Would you like to feel happy? Unafraid? Has something stopped you from becoming successful but you don't know what it is. Hypnosis is a tool that can help you shift into a new way of thinking, feeling and being. Call today if you have questions about how I can help.
juiCing juiCer heroes
Bryan and Kristi Wright, Owners 6975 Lebanon Rd, Ste 306, Frisco 75034 469-803-5919 • JuicerHeroes.com Raw fruit and vegetable juices, made daily from farm-fresh, local and organic produce. Delicious, healthy, no-sugar or other additives, and served in glass bottles so you can stay and sip, or grab and go, there is a variety of seasonal flavors to suit every taste and desired health benefit. See ad, page 20.
Teel Parkway, Frisco 75034 469-237-4289 • TJ4ttts.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 33.
luXury sWeeT esCape spa
SW Corner of Coit & Legacy; Inside Legacy Salons of Plano 940-320-9383 • jcsweetescape.com
1036 CR 203, Collinsville 76233 940-440-8382 • CampTonkawaTexas.com We are all connected to nature, and at Camp Tonkawa, our classes, camps and events help you to nurture that connection. Feel your connection to all living things. Sense the spirit of the wilderness. Know that you are related to the Earth on a practical and a spiritual level. Our goal is for everyone to be as knowledgeable of the natural world as the Native Americans, who love, honor and respect our planet Earth... Mother Nature.
legal serviCes & assisTanCe legal shield
Independent Associate M79.LegalShieldAssociate.com Unexpected legal questions arise every day and with LegalShield on your side, you'll have access to a high-quality law firm for as little as $20 a month. From real estate document review, speeding tickets, will preparation and more, our attorneys are here to advise you with any legal matter – no matter how traumatic or how trivial it may seem. Identity theft protection plans and personal, small business and employee benefit plans are available. Learn more by visiting website. See ad, page 27.
North Texas
synergy BalanCe
Are you getting enough antioxidants from your food or supplements? With a simple scan of your palm, I can empower you with an easy to understand report of how effective your nutrition actually is. No needles and safe for children and adults. See ad, page 17.
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 8.
naTuropaThiC physiCians
Your family's health is 'naturally' our passion. Using naturopathic medicine, our approach is holistic and non-toxic, helping those with cancer, hormone imbalances, fatigue, chronic illness, depression, and so much more. Let us be a partner in your wellness and show you naturopathic solutions to your health concerns.
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 15 and 21.
~Napoleon Hill NA-NTX.com
Specializing in reducing the risks of and reversing the symptoms of the 4A’s: Autism, ADHD, Asthma and Allergies, from preconception through symptomatic child. Providing plans for diet, supplements, functional lab tests, prevention and healing strategies. Convenient 1:1 phone sessions and online programs. See ad, page 41.
massage spaCe
he starting point of all achievement is desire.
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Jill Baumann 214-675-5607 • GuidedPathToHealth.com ThinkingOfBaby.com
Dr. Cecilia Yu, D.C.; NUCCA practitioner 12740 Hillcrest Rd, Ste 138, Dallas 75230 972-387-4700 • MySynergyBalance.com
Dr. Kimberly Wilson, NMD 6545 Preston Rd, #200, Plano 75024 972-608-0100 • InnovationsWellness.com
Camp TonkaWa
guided paTh To healTh
Exotic and classic massage styles, esthetician services too. See full listing under SPA.
innovaTions Wellness CenTer
kid FiT – kid Fun sporTs Training
T
3T’s (Tj’s TerriFiC TouCh)
nuTriTion
organiC laWn Care earTh kind serviCes
Lawn Top Dressing Beau Propes, Owner 469-744-0281 • EarthKindServices.com Organic lawn treatment that gets amazing results. We do all the work - spreading an even layer of composted Top Dressing to your lawn with our specialized spreader. Bare spots fill in, better drought tolerance and disease resistance. Safe for kids and pets. See ad, page 6.
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 15.
personal developmenT live your dream
Kathryn Kutzer 469-955-5123 • DreamBuilderLifeCoach.com Many people cannot identify their dream; they just know they are discontent with their current life and have a longing for something different. It is my privilege to help people discover the dream that is in harmony with their purpose, and then coach them through a specific process to help them achieve that dream.
salT esCape
radio shoW healThy By naTure radio shoW
Martie Whittekin; Certified Clinical Nutritionist Saturday 8am • KWRD 100.7 FM Interviews with authors, doctors and other experts about natural approaches to health and happiness. Listener calls are always welcome. Archives of past shows available on HBNShow.com.
2100 Dallas Pkwy, Ste 140, Plano 75075 972-378-4945 • SaltEscape.com Adults and children can relax in our salt rooms while breathing in natural salt with its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, accelerating nasal clearance and improving lung function. Separate salt playroom with viewing window for children. Salt room yoga, onsite massage therapy and onsite reflexology available. See ad, page 19.
Thermography Thermography CenTer oF dallas Dr. Genie Fields 5220 Spring Valley Rd, Ste 405, Dallas 75254 214-352-8758 • ThermographyCenter.com
Screening with thermography can detect abnormalities, many times 8-10 years before other screening methods. Non-invasive. No radiation. See ad, page 26.
spiriTual developmenT
real esTaTe gillian Cunningham, Broker assoCiaTe
Private Label Realty 6900 Dallas Pkwy, Ste 110, Plano 75024 469-269-2754 • GillianCunningham.com Thinking about selling or buying a home? I can take you from “For Sale to Sold!” Maximize your home equity with property preparation tips, staging assistance, optimal exposure. Buyer Representation – at no cost to you. Got a real estate question? Ask@ GillianCunningham.com. See ad, page 9.
solar & alTernaTive energy 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.
Tkm
kaBBalah CenTre oF dallas
17370 Preston Rd, Ste 470, Dallas 75252 214-446-0251 • Kabbalah.com/Dallas The Kabbalah Centre offers introductory and advanced courses that will show you ways around the limitations of rational thought, and push you beyond your box. The kabbalistic lens offers a rarely seen perspective by which you can dramatically improve the quality of your life – and the world around you. Visit our bookstore, call or visit us on Facebook for upcoming courses/events.
shir Tikvah reForm synagogue Rabbi Heidi Coretz 7700 Main St, Frisco 75034 214-500-8304, • ShirTikvahFrisco.org
Services are held on Friday evenings at 7 p.m. Every service welcomes children of all ages. Religious school classes take place on Sunday mornings during school year. Visit website for service schedule. See ad, page 43.
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.
spa luXury sWeeT esCape spa
SW Corner of Coit & Legacy; Inside Legacy Salons of Plano 940-320-9383 • jcsweetescape.com Exotic massage styles include Lomi Lomi and Thai Table massage, classic styles such as Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Reflexology, Cranial Sacral, Prenatal and Sports also available. Esthetician services include facials, body wrap, body bronzing, waxing and tinting. Each service begins with customized ambiance and ends with our gift of hand-selected boxed truffle to round-out your blissful sensory experience. Call today about monthly specials exclusively for Natural Awakenings North Texas readers.
The king insTiTuTe
Dr. Glenn King 3740 N Josey Ln, Ste 244, Carrollton 75007 800-640-7998 • KingInstitute.org/TKM TKM is natural and effective care that's changing lives for people battling immune, respiratory and cardiovascular disorders, cancer, migraines, pain and more. See ad, page 27.
WeighT loss sonja kaBell
Weight Loss and Wellness Consulting 972-935-6484 • SonjaKabell.com Lose weight, feel great, have more energy and get your mojo back! Healthy, customized, easy to follow programs that are affordable. No food to buy, we use real food from the grocery store. In your home or at our office. Free consultation and health assessment to see if you are a candidate for our program. Reach target weight and maintain your results long-term!
Wellness CenTers neW sTar ChiropraCTiC & aCupunCTure Wellness CenTer Zhangping Lu, D.C., L.Ac., MD (China) 425 Maplelawn Dr, Ste 101, Plano 75075 972-519-8488 DFWAcupunctureChiropractic.com
supplemenTs shop healThWorks marT
Andy Hopkins, Owner 3221 Independence Pkwy, Plano, 75075 972-516-1740 • HealthworksMart.com Online prices at a local outlet store. You don’t have to get “brain drain” while shopping for supplements. We pick only the best products in t h e i r c a t e g o r i e s . F r i e n d l y, knowledgeable staff provides personalized service. On-site nutrition consulting. Educational health events. SW corner Parker/Independence, Plano. See ad, page 8.
N
ever doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. ~Margaret Mead
Whole body wellness center providing chiropractic care, spinal decompression, allergy testing, NAET, IMAET, detoxification, weight loss, hormone balancing, wellness programs and more. All natural healing, no medication, no surgery. See ad, page 33.
shamBhala Wellness CenTer
215 E University Dr, Denton 76209 940-380-8728 • ShambhalaWellness.com A true wellness center and oasis for body, mind and spirit. Our caring practitioners really listen and can help you raise the level of wellness you are experiencing. Massage, Reiki, yoga, nutrition and counseling are just some of the modalities we offer. Book a session, drop in for yoga or join us at one of our educational seminars.
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