Natural Nutmeg April 2020 by Natural Nutmeg Magazine/Essential Naples Magazine

April 2020

Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Essential Living

Maintaining a Healthy Liver the Natural Way

Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®

The Growing Incidence of Autoimmune Disease Jaquel Patterson, ND

Keto: Good For Diabetes & Prediabetes? Ryan Attar, ND

Are You Addicted to Coffee?

Mary Tracey, ND, MSAOM

Tackling the Myths About CBD Rebekah Fernandez

Celebrating 14 Years of Publishing www.NaturalNutmeg.com

First Edition of The CT Healthy Aging Resource coming Summer 2020

An annual edition of Connecticut’s vetted resources of practitioners and businesses that provide services to people 50+ and their caregivers.

June 2020

Healthy Aging Resource Connecticut's Resource For Healthy Aging

Why Relationships Are the Secret to Healthy Aging Aging Well: 9 Scientific Tips for Growing Older The Role of Protein in Healthy Aging Could Perking Up Gut Bacteria Promote Healthy Aging? The Connection Between Depression and Dementia

A Natural Nutmeg Publication

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Contact Frances: frances@naturalnutmeg.com to advertise your business

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

Helping people navigate these important choices so they can age gracefully and positively is important. Pick it up at our regular locations as well as these other business types: + + + + + + + +

Assisted Living Facilities PT/Rehabilitation Facilities Adult Day Care Eldercare Planning Firms Compounding Pharmacies Memory Care Facilities Senior & Community Centers Independent Living

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See What's in Store for 2020 We're ready with plans for the content you love from Natural Nutmeg

May/June October • Women’s/Men’s Health • Natural Treatments • Treatment for Lyme for Cancer Disease • Mindfulness July/August & Self-Care • Managing Stress & November/December Anxiety in Children • The Epidemic • Aging Gracefully of Diabesity September • Brain Health • The Natural Home 2020 10BEST/ • Natural Treatments Essential Living Guide for Chronic Pain • Stress Reduction • Sleep Optimization

Contact diane@naturalnutmeg.com to feature your business in Natural Nutmeg!

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

PUBLISHER'SLETTER

pring is here! It’s my second favorite time of year because I know that summer is right around the corner. In fact, as I write this publisher letter, I’m planning something very exciting for readers of Natural Nutmeg this summer. We’re publishing the First Edition of The CT Healthy Aging Resource to be distributed in June, 2020. This will be an annual edition of Connecticut’s vetted resources of practitioners and businesses that provide services to people 50+ and their caregivers, and will be a resource that people will save and pass on to others. Our mission is always to provide an opportunity for people like you to communicate your vision to our readers, so we can elevate health and wellness in our state. Helping people navigate these important choices so they can age gracefully and positively is important. In the last year, I’ve had a few friends dealing with the rapid decline in health of a parent and having to find assisted living, rehab and hospice services. There are so many questions and decisions to make, sometimes in a short amount of time, and the fear is that your loved one won’t receive the best care or worse, will be neglected. My mother didn’t miss a day of visiting my grandmother in a nursing home for over 6 years – that is a huge commitment that most people are unable to keep. When I started searching for trusted resources for my friends, I realized very quickly there really weren’t any! Aside from a few local directories, I couldn’t find any resource that provided educational content and vetting on aging-related services and eldercare businesses. After publishing Natural Nutmeg Magazine for over 13 years, the state’s premier magazine on integrative medicine and healthy living, I decided it was time to create a trusted resource for healthy aging and eldercare. Look for the CT Healthy Aging Resource this summer in all of our regular distribution locations and Assisted Living Facilities, Memory Care Facilities, Hospitals, Practitioner’s offices and more. We hope you all are staying safe and healthy and have some great articles on immune support in this issue. In addition, we’ve included many articles on reducing stress and self-care to get your focus off fear and anxiety and on taking better care of yourself! In Health and Happiness,

ur mission is to provide valuable insight, information and resources that will allow our readers to maintain a healthy, active, sustainable lifestyle. Natural Nutmeg contains timely information on natural health, complementary and alternative medicine, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle. PUBLISHER Dr. Diane Hayden Diane@naturalnutmeg.com ADVERTISING advertising@naturalnutmeg.com DIR. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Christopher Urso Curso@naturalnutmeg.com MARKETING DIRECTORS Frances Wall Higgins frances@naturalnutmeg.com Heather Zundel heather@naturalnutmeg.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashley Frament layout@naturalnutmeg.com ADVISORY BOARD Ann Aresco, ND Adam Breiner, ND Mark Breiner, DDS Deanna M. Cherrone, MD Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N. (Pend.) Debra Gibson, ND Kenneth Hoffman, LAc, CCH Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N Lauren Young, ND DISTRIBUTION Greater Hartford and surrounding counties, please contact Natural Nutmeg. FFC - Tom Cossuto, Man In Motion, LLC

A big Thank You to our wonderful writers and advertisers who make this free resource possible! Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw them in

Natural Nutmeg Magazine naturalnutmeg.com

In keeping with our concern for the environment, Natural Nutmeg is proudly printed on recycled paper with soy based inks. Natural Nutmeg is a free publication supported solely by our advertisers and distributed throughout Connecticut. Please call for a location near you. (860) 508-0894 or email to publisher@naturalnutmeg.com. © 2007-20 by Natural Nutmeg, LLC. All rights reserved. Parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that permission be obtained in writing. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the ar ticles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and ser vices adver tised. We welcome your feedback.

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

In This Issue 12 13 14

Restaurants Keeping It Real: The Sweet Beet Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC

Debunking The Top 5 Self-Care Myths Erica L. Wilcox, LPC

Healthy Ever After Janis Melillo

Are You Addicted to Coffee? Mary Tracey, ND, MSAOM

“Get on the Ball!”

24 27 28

Spring Clean Your Financial Records: 3 Strategies for Success

Emotional Intelligence is a Great Dining Companion

Inner and Outer Climate Change: A Creative Response Your Mouth Has Gotten You Into Trouble! Mark Breiner, DDS

31 33

Boost Your Immune Health with Antioxidants and Prana Veda Maintaining a Healthy Liver the Natural Way Erika Dworkin,

COVID-19: The Case for Preventive, Immunosupportive Therapy

Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®

Tackling the Myths About CBD Rebekah Fernandez

36 42

In Every Issue 6

THE BUZZ

NUTMEG NUGGETS

Paige Dest

Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, MBA, AWMA®

Antonio Reale, ND, MS

Jaquel Patterson, ND

Pat Heavren, MHSA

Sharon Sklar, Certified Advanced Rolfer

The Growing Incidence of Autoimmune Disease

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

HAPPENINGS

RESOURCES

DR. DI'S CORNER

Keto: Good For Diabetes & Prediabetes? Ryan Attar, ND

What’s In It For Me? Do I Really Need a Master’s Degree? Sandi Coyne-Gilbert, MBA DM

Find more articles and

MS Organizational Leadership Program

search our web archive

Director, Goodwin University

at naturalnutmeg.com

Due to the unique situation concerning COVID19, we cannot guarantee that the events listed in this issue have not been cancelled or rescheduled. Please contact the venues directly for more information, and please support these small businesses in any way possible at this uncertain time.

24 www.NaturalNutmeg.com

THE BUZZ to 100 grams (100,000 mg). Along with Vitamin C, the amino acid complex called Glutathione is also used IV at the same time to further the antiviral and immune enhancement results.

Reduce Your Chance of Contracting the Coronavirus

ith the coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide epidemic dominating the news, everyone is wondering what can be done to lessen the risk. As has been reported, the greater risk as is the case with the common "flu", is for the elderly or those with medical conditions that depress a person's immune status and makes them less able to fight off the virus and its effects. Enhancing the health of your immune system may make the difference between contracting a mild illness which quickly passes, versus having a more serious medical condition develop. Here is an integrative medicine perspective for enhancing your immune health and making you less susceptible to illness in general, and making it through a viral illness with recovery to full health. The #1 measure to reduce contracting viruses is washing your hands frequently for 20 seconds. 1. Vitamin C. Taking in an oral supplement from 500mg up to as much as 3,000 mg per day can be very beneficial. The problem that occurs with oral ingestion of Vitamin C is stomach upset which occurs at higher doses. The answer to this problem is the Intravenous Vitamin C treatment given in a doctor's office. These IVs contain much higher doses than can be taken orally because the Vitamin C goes straight into the bloodstream avoiding the side effects that occur with oral ingestion. With IV Vitamin C, the dosage utilized can start at 30 grams (30,000 mg) and go all the way up

2. Peptides. Peptides are composed of amino acids, which when taken therapeutically act as messengers which promote healthier and stronger immune system function by optimizing the maturation and better functioning of the body's T and B cells which are the cornerstone of the body's ability to fight viruses and other external invaders of the body. Some peptides are naturally occurring in the body, as are the thymosin peptides made in the thymus gland. Proven by research, FDA approved thymus originating peptides are in use by oncologists in the fight against the immune suppressing effects of a malignant condition. 3. Herbs. Research has shown that many of nature's plants available as extracts in supplement form, have actions to strengthen a person's immune response. Among those most well regarded would be elderberry, astragalus root, shitake and maitake mushroom, arabinogalactan, garlic, and olive leaf extract. Also, colloidal silver and homeopathic remedies in single or combination form have enjoyed a long history of helping those looking for immune support. Pay attention to these common sense measures to reduce your chance of contracting the coronavirus (COVID-19): 1. Wash your hands frequently, especially after you blow your nose, cough or sneeze. 2. Do not touch your eyes, mouth or nose with unwashed hands. 3. Avoid close contact with people who are ill. 4. Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces with disinfectant wipes. Three Vitamin C Research Studies have been approved in China for treating coronavirus, and diminishing or prevention of the illness after exposure. The doctors leading the study are calling for widespread use of Vitamin C for prevention. Dr. Henry Sobo is the Medical Director of Optimal Health Medical, LLC in Stamford. For more information see www.drsobo.com or call 203.348.8805. See ad on page 32.

Traditional Chinese and Western Herbal Medicine with Barbara Scavotto, EWCH   

1-hour consultations for personalized attention Custom-made formulas for individual needs Herbal medicine is incredibly effective for many conditions : Depression * Migraines * Pain Insomnia * Many More! Call today for a consultation!

860-837-1588 www.autumntideherbalwellness.com Enfield, Connecticut 6

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

@justbethejourney

THE BUZZ

Building In a Pause

pring has sprung! With the winter as mild as we’ve had, it seems everyone has already jumped into turbo-speed with spring fever. It’s a positive time, where folks get outside, embrace the sunshine and really make the most of each day. But I have found that with this momentum we can get caught up in an acceleration that is hard to slow down. This was the time of year in 2019 when I had the wonderful chance to “go away”, and have a personal retreat that filled my soul. What happened next was tough. The lack of pause when I returned to our fast-paced world was almost impossible to bear. What I learned was building in micro-pauses throughout the day will only elevate the joy the productivity brings and keep us a little more sane along the way. This micro-pause can come in many ways, but I’ve found it’s best grasped during the “in-betweens”. In-betweens happen each day while you are sitting at a red light, standing for a moment longer in the shower, stirring the food on the stove, turning the car off to walk inside, washing your hands, you CAN really find these micro-moments in a million spaces throughout the day. The question is - will you take the opportunity to pause? Instead of reaching for the phone to check the latest feed, text, or meeting/commitment - just breathe in....pause...allow the lightening bugs of productivity to slow for just a moment between flickers...and breathe out. No need to put pressure on yourself. No need to try and meditate if you’ve never done that before. No need to criticize yourself when a monsoon of to do lists come washing through your brain. It’s all ok. Let it flow. Build in the pause and just be the journey! Liz Kametz holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and MS in Systems Engineering and is trained in Change Management and Lean/Six Sigma. Her vision of Just Be came from her own lack of self-care and the recognition that the epidemic of chronic stress is real and needs to be addressed. Adrienne Gervais holds a BA in Political Science, is a certified Master Energy Therapist and is currently completing a Master’s degree in Integrative Health and Holistic Healing. Just Be is located at 36 Main Street in East Hartford. www.justbethejourney.com info@justbethejourney.com. See ad on page 6.

Specializing in... - Lyme Diseases - Allergies - Anti-aging - Stress reduction Call Us Today!

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Nutmeg “Nuggets” Nutritional IV therapy improves your health by giving you the nutrients your body must have to produce energy, build proteins, heal, keep your nerves and muscles working, and maintain every system in your body. You can eat healthy foods and still develop a nutritional deficiency if you’re under any physical or emotional stress. Your body uses more nutrients when you’re stressed, whether the stress is due to chronic pain, acute or chronic illness, a viral or bacterial infection, injury, overtraining, or anxiety. An IV infusion can: increase energy, boost metabolism, strengthen the immune system, relieve pain, improve healing, hydrate your body, enhance sport performance and fight free radicals. Depending on the nutritional IV infusion you use, it may also balance electrolytes, nourish your skin, and help detoxify your body.

IV Vitamin Infusion for Immune Health

iven all the recent concern about Corona virus and its rapid spread, it is most important to try and stay as healthy as possible. Our immune system is designed to protect us against invaders but it is overwhelmed at times due to exposure to new strains of the flu and other viruses, poor sleep, stress, improper nutrition and absorption of nutrients. Oral supplements must travel through your stomach and be absorbed by your small intestine before they reach your bloodstream. Many problems along the way can limit the amount of nutrients that actually get into your bloodstream and are delivered to cells throughout your body. For example, if you have inflammatory bowel disease, low stomach acid, or don’t produce enough digestive enzymes, your body can’t properly absorb nutrients. Another roadblock is that your small intestine can only absorb a limited amount of some nutrients. You could take a mega-dose of nutrients orally, but only a small percentage would make it into your bloodstream. When your nutrients are administered intravenously (IV), they bypass digestion and absorption issues, and you get 100% of the dose delivered. Not only that, but your therapeutic dose is quickly distributed to cells that need the nutrition to boost your energy and improve your well-being.

Your IV therapy can be customized, but a variety of standard IV infusions are available that may be perfect for your health. The Immune support drip and the Meyers’ cocktail consists of fluids, B vitamins and amino acids, including high dose vitamin C, and minerals. Vitamin C which is also a stand-alone high dose drip, not only aids in detoxification as a powerful antioxidant, but can boost our immune system against pathogens and viral illness. We often do a glutathione add on to help boost the effect of the drip. Glutathione removes toxins in the body and is the most important antioxidant produced by the body. People usually feel the positive effects immediately after their IV drip, and this infusion can decrease both the severity of your symptoms and the length of time when you’re feeling under the weather. David Johnston, DO is a board-certified osteopathic physician in neuromusculoskeletal medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine, and a Diplomate with the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and holds additional certifications in cranial osteopathy, neural therapy and IV therapy. Dr. Johnston practices at The Osteopathic Wellness Center, in Ridgefield. 203.438.9915. www.osteopathicwellness.net.

Salt of the Earth Spa offers 3 Salt Rooms: Cave, Lagoon, Family or Saltbed Other Services: Massage • Life Coaching • Quantum Healing • Infrared Therapy Energy Healing • Salted/Restorative Yoga • Reflexology Sound Healing • Meditation Programs in The Cave

Therapeutic Spa 787 Main St. S. • Woodbury • 203.586.1172

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

Nutmeg “Nuggets”

Sacred Rivers Yoga Center 28 Main Street East Hartford, CT 06118 Phone: 860.657.9545 Fax: 860.657.3161 www.sacredriversyoga.com Paula Scopino ~ Owner/Director

Letting Go of What No Longer Serves You

hy stay stagnant in a place and space that is hindering growth because you thought that was what you wanted or needed in your life? Seeing the bigger picture allows you to understand that there will be plenty of circumstances and situations that will come into your life to act as a lesson and stepping stone to where you are meant to be. We must let go of what no longer serves our highest purpose in order to make room for growth to propel us toward our greatest destiny. Eckhart Tolle said it best, “Sometimes letting go is an act of far greater power than defending or hanging on.” Here are three tips to help with letting go.

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1. We must be aware of the negative factors in our life that are weighing us down or holding us back from our greatest good. 2. We must practice acceptance of what we cannot change.

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The Bio-Tracker checks the following.... Endocrine System Sinus Circulatory System Stomach Body Organs Fibrous Tissue Inhale Allergies Joints Spleen Carbohydrate Metabolism

Adrenal Glands Thyroid Glands Pituitary Gland Throat Ears Small Intestines Large Intestines Ileocecal Valve Lungs Ess. Fatty Acids Skin

Nervous System Lymph System Liver Heart Gallbladder Urinary Bladder Pancreas Kidney Food Allergies Reproductive System

....and much more if needed!

Metals ~ Chemicals ~ Bacteria ~ Viruses ~ Hormones ~ Neurotransmitters Mold ~ Vitamins ~ Minerals ~ Candida ~ ATP ~ GeoPathic Stress etc.

~ Bear Walker ~ Holistic Practitioner

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3. We must forgive both ourselves and anyone along the way who held us back or wronged us. Then, with this knowledge we can shed who and what we no longer need in a kind and compassionate way and move forward. Holding on to ideals of what should be or could have been doesn’t allow you to step forward into your purpose, passion, and truth. Listen to your intuition. If something does not feel right or has negative energy, that is your intuition telling you to go in a different direction. We often hold on for the wrong reasons with fear and insecurities being major players. But our minds are like our homes. Every now and then we need to clean house and let go of the clutter to make room for improvements. Once we move into alignment with our calling or purpose, we begin to experience clarity and calmness. Letting go gracefully is an art. Sometimes it gets even the best of us. Remember this, letting go is not a failure. Instead it is an empowering act of acceptance and the regaining of one's personal power. So, bring your awareness back to the present moment. Once we let go of what is not serving us, the Universe will conspire to make our dreams come true. Never give up. Bumps and obstacles teach us and help us grow. You are worth it and great things are coming your way! Faith, love, and trust will always guide you through and allow letting go of what no longer serves you to be that much easier. Dr. Sonia V. Manganello is a bestselling author of The Perseverance Diet, a health/life/nutrition coach, an interfaith minister, and metaphysician. divinelightandguidance.com 860.966.8747 See ad on this page.

www.circleofhealthonline.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Business Spotlight

Dr. Jamie Ahn, ND

r. Jamie Ahn graduated from the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine (magna cum laude). Prior to pursuing her Naturopathic medical degree, she graduated from Ramapo College in New Jersey with a B.S. in Biology. DH: Why did you want to become a Naturopathic Physician? JA: My passion for medicine began because of my daughter who has a rare disease. After taking her to see countless doctors, who never seemed to go beneath the surface of her condition, I naturally became frustrated. Then one day, I took my daughter to an eye doctor who impressed me so much I asked him to treat my motion sickness and somnolence while reading. After treating me for six months and having me bombard him with question after question, the doctor said to me, “You know, you would make a great therapist.” To underline his point, he gave me a signed copy of a book he’d written, and offered me a job. I seized the opportunity and entered a pre-med program for Optometry, later transitioning into Naturopathy. DH: What sets you apart from other practitioners in the naturopathic field? JA: My approach involves a lot of scientific testing, probably far more than any other naturopath or primary care physician I know. I cast my net wider and dig a lot deeper to make sure I get to the root cause of my patient’s health problems. I examine the whole body, diet and lifestyle to find treatments that work. DH: What types of services do you offer? JA: The solutions and services I offer my patients include nutritional advice, functional medicine and acupuncture. I do comprehensive stool, organic acid, heavy metal, mycotoxin and environmental toxicity testing. I do far-reaching nutrition and comprehensive hormone evaluations, cortisol included. I also do Methylation (genetic) testing, as well as food sensitivity, neurotransmitter, and energy metabolism testing.

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

DH: What can patients expect from working with you? JA: Patients who come to see me can expect to undergo a fair amount of individualized specialty testing in the beginning. I always explain to patients that treatments based on scientific data will not only help them get better faster, they also save time and money in the long run. New patients are asked to complete a HIPAA compliant questionnaire on my fully secure patient portal. I encourage them to share any other tests and health information they may have. I go over everything they submit, at no charge, prior to their first visit where we together establish which test package they should do. DH: What plans do you have for the future for your practice? JA: My hope for the future of my practice is that I will simply continue to treat patients in the best way possible. I value quality over quantity and love studying so I’m continually striving to improve my personalized, deep-dive approach to healing. DH: Tell us about the best memory you have about being a holistic practitioner. JA: The best memory I have involves my first ever patient. He came to me for help with pain management and associated blood pressure problems while I was still an intern. We were able to reduce his pain levels from 8 to 2 within two weeks just by changing his diet. He came back to see me after I graduated so that we could work on the root cause of his problem and I am still treating him today. Dr. Jamie Ahn is a Licensed Naturopathic Physician based in Norwalk, Connecticut. For more information or to make an appointment call 203.450.6463 or visit DrJamieAhn.com. See ad on page 8.

Business Spotlight

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ALL CRE CREATURES HOLISTIC HEALTH THE NATURAL CHOICE FOR YOUR PETS HEALTH & WELL BEING

I became an Esthetician because I wanted to help my clients achieve their skin care goals as well as help them feel confident in their skin. It brings me so much joy when I visibly see my client’s skin transformation and their confidence boost. 2. What sets you apart from other practitioners and skincare providers in the holistic field?

Center Shops, 3D Turkey Hill Road East Granby, CT 06026 • 860.888.7796 www.AllCreaturesHolisticHealth.com

Dr. Katy

Firisin

ND, MSPT

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imply Aesthetics by Andreana Leonard is a small but motivated skincare business. As CEO and Esthetician, Andreana has a strong passion for skincare and for helping her clients to achieve healthy and glowing skin. As someone who used to struggle with acne in the past, Andreana understands how frustrating it is to try everything and nothing seems to work. At Simply Aesthetics by Andreana, Andreana uses skin care products that are affordable and effective for all skin types and skin conditions. 1. Why are you passionate about skincare and why did you want to become an Esthetician?

• Chiropractic • Acupuncture • Herbal/Nutraceutical Support • Dietary Advice • Allergy Therapy • Professional Nail Trims Supporting Treatments for: Pain, Cancer, Heart Disease, Long Term Wellness

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What sets me apart from other skincare providers is the fact that I am attentive. I like to take time to thoroughly analyze my clients skin, feel their skin, and ask questions about their lifestyle/product use. 3. What types of natural skincare services and products do you offer? At Simply Aesthetics by Andreana, I offer customized facials, back facials, and body waxing. All of the products used during services are vegan, cruelty free, and paragon free. 4. What can clients expect from working with you? Clients can expect to experience a relaxing service and have an Esthetician who cares about helping them to achieve their goal. Clients can also expect to be educated about their skin and proper products to use on their skin. 5. What plans do you have for the future for your business? My future plan for the business is to be able to incorporate healing crystals during facial services. As well as host skincare educational nights at my suite. 6. Tell us about the best memory you have about being a holistic business owner. The best memory that I have about being a business owner is waking up every morning excited to go into work. It brings me joy to wake up, go into work, and do what I love. Simply Aesthetics by Andreana is located at 110 Hale Rd, Suite #536 in Manchester. Visit www.simplyaestheticsct.com. See ad on page 16.

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Restaurants Keeping It Real: The Sweet Beet By Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC

o you like to eat out? I do! Of course, cooking at home is more cost effective and can be the healthier choice, but eating out is fun, relaxing and can be a delicious culinary treat. I have to admit that I am pretty picky about the restaurants that I choose, because I will only go if I can eat real food made with the best ingredients. I thought that I would share how I figure that out and create a list of Connecticut restaurants that are getting it right. In the coming months, I will spotlight a different restaurant in each issue. How do I vet each restaurant? I eat there, ask questions, talk to the staff, chef and owners if possible and look at their website. The Questions to Ask 1. Farm to Table. Do they source their food primarily from local farms? Is this listed on the menu or a board? 2. Oils. Do they use canola, corn, sunflower, safflower, soybean, peanut or a blended oil? Will they simply use extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil if you ask? 3. Animal Protein. Do they have menu options for 100% grass-fed meat, organic or pastured chicken, wild or sustainable farm-raised fish that is carefully vetted? 4. Organic. Do they have organic options on the menu at all times (an organic salad)? Are they aware of the Dirty Dozen list from The Environmental Working Group and if so do they incorporate organic options of these foods into their menus? Are they familiar with the fact that nonGMO products can contain pesticides? 5. Ingredients. Do they use real ingredients and avoid high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors and preservatives? 6. Allergy friendly. Are the most common allergens listed on the menu (gluten, dairy, soy)? Is the staff trained to understand allergy concerns? Are they aware of the allergens in different menu items? Do they have gluten free choices? Is the kitchen willing and able to make substitutions to accommodate a customer’s allergy or health concerns?

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

The Sweet Beet, Granby, CT This month I am excited to share this hidden gem with you. The Sweet Beet in Granby opened in 2013 and has become a favorite spot for locals but also a destination stop for vegan foodies. I sat down with Heather Dougherty, the owner to discuss “the questions”. She sources locally during the growing season in CT, mostly from Holcomb Farm in Simsbury and Sub Edge Farm in Farmington. In the off-season they use Albert’s Organics. After doing several interviews, it is the first time that I have heard the following statement: All our produce is ORGANIC, ALL THE TIME! Most restaurants have a few organic options but are not willing to truly commit to it. Heather believes that it is not only important for our health but also for the health of our planet and she has made it a priority. It is also the first time that I have found a place that has committed to using only high quality oils and not the cheaper blends that include canola and soybean oil. She uses extra virgin olive oil and organic, unrefined coconut oil in her recipes. There is one exception, she uses Earth Balance Soy Free for her frosting and it does have a small amount of non-GMO canola oil. She avoids artificial ingredients and preservatives completely. The cake flour that she makes in house is a high protein blend that is all organic. The amazing chili that is available daily is made with Eden brand beans. Eden adds kombu and pressure cooks the beans in the can which helps with digestibility. The Sweet Beet is most definitely allergy friendly! The restaurant does NOT contain any of the following: GLUTEN, DAIRY, SOY, EGGS, PEANUTS OR SHELLFISH. Some items contain cashews and walnuts and are labeled appropriately. The entire menu is up on the blackboard. The fresh pressed organic juices are creative and delicious. My personal favorite is Beetle Juice – beet, apple, cucumber and ginger. The Sweet Beet Salad is fresh and colorful. The Curry Chickpea Salad, Chickpea of the Sea Salad and the N’Egg Salad will leave you satisfied if you desire a sandwich. Finally, I have to say that the “Sweets” are worth the drive if you don’t live nearby! It is important to mention that the take-out refrigerators are always stocked with fantastic options for the next few days to make your life easier. I seem to always leave with Roasted Roots – yam, carrot, parsnip, turnip and beet with nut free pesto and the Paleo No Fredo (you will just have to go in to see what that is). The Sweet Beet can make your holidays easier as well. My entire family agrees that the Thanksgiving gravy is the best that we have ever had and it has become a staple each year. I hope I have inspired you to check out The Sweet Beet! https://www.thesweetbeet.net. Submitted by Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC, National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach. Kathy sees clients at Natural Health & Healing, in West Hartford. healthcoach@naturalhealthandhealing.net 860.677.4600. See ad on back cover.

Debunking The Top 5 Self-Care Myths By Erica L. Wilcox, LPC

elf-care has gained notable momentum in the wellness community. We are all familiar with the concept that we, “cannot pour from an empty cup,” or that we must, “put on our oxygen masks first before we help others.” While this is absolutely true, I have found in my work as a Licensed Professional Counselor, that there are many myths about self-care that hold us back from a deeper, more realistic understanding of what an active and consistent self-care practice looks and feels like. When it comes to self-care, it is crucial to “clean out” some of the attached myths so that you can make room for what really works for you. Below are the Top 5 Self- Care Myths that you can start letting go of today. 1. Self-Care is Selfish Selfishness entails consistently taking from others without reciprocity, thoughtlessness, inconsideration and a lack of empathy. Self-care involves setting limits with our time, people and places (aka boundaries). We are able to spend time alone and make space for self-reflection with respect to our feelings, relationships, and behaviors. Believing that self-care is selfish is a relationally based myth that has roots in idolizing self-sacrifice over caretaking. I hear the words “guilt” and “selfish” used synonymously when it comes to self-care. The reality is that we cannot be present for others or ourselves when we don’t take care of our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. To reframe, self-care is really not 100% about you. It is about being able to attend to your needs so you can show up in the best way possible for others. 2. Self-Care is Grandiose Large self-care gestures are important, but they aren’t inclusive of all the other critical aspects of self-care. Self-care on a

moment-to-moment, hour-to-hour, day-byday basis is what needs our attention the most. This includes what I call GRACE, PACE, and SPACE. Grace is the way you speak to yourself in your head. Pace, the tempo that you go about your day. Space is what you make room for in your life and heart. 3. Self-Care is Secondary or Optional If you don’t budget for self-care, it will make time for you in the form of illness and stress. If you have a super busy day that is filled with tasks and stressors that are all priorities, self-care should not be neglected. It means that self-care needs to be on the top of that priority list and not an afterthought. Goal-seeking is a form of self-care but when it is at the cost of your mental and physical wellbeing or a “Prize/Reward” then Houston, we have a problem. We are supporting the lie that self-care needs to be earned. While some weeks may require more of your attention on certain tasks, you cannot run mentalmarathons on a consistent basis. Taking care of yourself is your birthright. You do not need to earn it. 4. Self-Care is Anything that Relaxes You This is the myth that surprises a lot of people. Yes, many forms of self-care are relaxing and help regulate the nervous system. When we are stressed, our nervous system is on FIRE so calming strategies are like water for that fire. However, sometimes calming strategies fan the flame in the form of procrastination. The reality is that self-care can be really challenging and the best we can take care of ourselves can be described in two words: YES and NO. The YES is the willingness to care for yourself by agreeing to things that safely push you outside of your comfort zone and promote growth. For example, signing up for a 5k or being more open and honest in your relationships instead of guarded and distant. The NO is when

you set and honor boundaries with people, places, and things. This includes limiting social media, contact with people that drain you, and disengaging from things that drain your energy and do not reciprocate. Self-care can and should be challenging at times. 5. Self-Care Takes a Lot of TIme Notice your breath at this moment while you are reading this article. Just notice, without changing it. Notice where you feel tension in your body and send the breath to that area. Start to elongate the breath and repeat ten times. Feel the tension start to shift. Feel your heartrate start to slow down and your body feel more centered. What you just did was an act of self-care! When we take deep breaths, we are giving our nervous systems a big, self-care hug. I love breath work because it does not take a ton of time and we can access it at any time or any place. In order to be effective, self-care can and must happen on a consistent micro level. Erica Wilcox is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified EMDR Therapist who dedicates her work to holistically helping individuals and groups heal from stress and trauma. She is the Founder and Director of Wilcox Wellness Center for Personal Growth, a private and professional counseling practice located in Southington, CT. Wilcox Wellness provides confidential and compassionate individual, group, family and couple’s counseling for children, teens and adults in addition to state of the art creative therapies such as Equine assisted therapy, Art Therapy, Biofeedback and Wellness based workshops. Subscribe for practice updates and journal prompts at wilcoxwellness.com. Contact by phone 860.266.6098. help@wilcoxwellness.com. See ad on page 20. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Healthy Ever After By Janis Melillo am a firm believer that shift happens, in a lot of ways when we least expect it. At the point when “it” happens we sometimes have the adverse reaction that defies logic. Your Healthy Ever After is a state of mindset which is defined as the pursuit of something which you may believe defies logic. The realm of where you are and where you want to be is a logical step toward Healthy Ever After.

Think of it as you, and you alone are 100% responsible with what happens to and with your health. Yes, some things we are genetically predisposed to such as a family history of adult onset diabetes and high blood pressure (the list can go on and on.) Then there are the awful diseases plaguing many people randomly as an unsuspected target. These drastic life health events happen. How we react however in any given situation, can certainly be very understandable. We are not defined by what we have overall, but how we respond to a particular situation. The quest to be at our most healthiest self has never been more important than it is now. Healthy Ever After is the new Wealthy. Simply said, if you do not have your health, you do not have anything. If you think getting healthy is expensive, try illness. That is the reality of our state of health. How can you transition your mindset? The key to a complete transition is that the healthy foundation is built on the ideology of transforming ourselves from the inside out. This is performed through healthy mindset shifts.

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

For instance, a great example (if you are a habitual and frequent visitor of fast food and I’ll pick one of my favorite prior ones say, McDonald’s), is instead of ordering from the supersize menu and then ordering a diet coke so you do not feel so bad, make a healthy transition of changing your mindset to order a cheeseburger, a small fry and a kid size diet coke (Yes, that is exactly what I did). In my practice of health coaching clients, I refer to this as the “RBM” - Rational Breakdown Method. You have to breakdown your habits and sometimes tear them apart, even if you do not want to, and come up with a solution that works for you. This habitual practice creates a “shift” in your mindset and you will slowly regain and build a healthy solid foundation. You will feel a sense of relief, accomplishment and pride as you move forward each day. As a further result and by-product of creating and moving forward each day with your healthy foundation, amazing things will happen such as: losing weight, having less stress, sleeping better, and so much more. Many clients that I have coached over the years believe that in order to be successful in their quest to get healthy, they have to have a special kind of willpower to succeed in the ever-changing dieting arena. In my professional opinion as a health coach, if you are creating a negative environment such as “the willpower” to lose weight before you have established a methodology of rationally breaking down your habits, you will in all likelihood fail and justify your behavior for not losing weight, even before you have really thought about how you are going to possibly be successful.

Creating an unrealistic willpower solution quite honestly is a recipe for disaster. I don’t know about you, but I have been in the dieting arena far too often - more than what I want to admit and I am here to tell you, it is NOT about your willpower or going on the next fad diet! It’s the desire to pursue being healthy - all around. Your health encompasses so much more than what you give yourself credit for, which brings me back to what the definition of health really means. The World Health Organization defines health as, “complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Nowhere in this definition does it mention willpower. We all know what willpower is and it surely does not apply to your physical, mental and social wellbeing. Going on another diet is not the answer and should not be a part of the solution! How are you going to define or create your Healthy Ever After? Janis Melillo is a wellness/ transformation health coach (Weighs2Health, LLC) and an International Best Selling Author. She provides in-house and on-line coaching sessions as well as in-office coaching at The Red Barn, 352 Main Street in Durham. Janis.Weighs2HealthLLC@gmail.com or 386.717.0914.

Are you Addicted to Coffee? 5 Reasons Why You May Have Daily Low Energy Levels

By Mary Tracey, ND, MSAOM

ecent studies have found that coffee drinking may be beneficial for your health. A 2014 journal article found that individuals who drank at least one cup per day (8 oz., black, or with a small amount of milk/or sugar) over a four year period had a 11% lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Another 2001 study suggests that coffee consumption could protect against the risk of Parkinson’s disease. This information is not provided in order to create a coffee craze, and as the old saying goes, “too much of anything, good for nothing”. Coffee containing caffeine is known to cause insomnia, nervousness, anxiety and even an increased heart and breathing rate. Coffee may be harmful to those with high blood pressure and increase the risk of osteoporosis. As with everything in life, moderation is key! The concerning issue is that many Americans may be drinking coffee as a bandaid for mental or physical fatigue without addressing the root cause for these changes. Being attuned with your body and its changes are important to maintaining optimal health. Reasons You May Be Experiencing LowEnergy Levels 1. Nutrition: Iron Deficiency and Blood Sugar Imbalance. Iron deficiency anemia is a common condition, especially amongst women. In this condition, the body lacks sufficient red blood cells. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the bodies’ various organs and tissues. Women lose blood during menstruation making them at greater

risk for iron deficiency anemia. Lack of adequate oxygen transport within the body can lead to symptoms of fatigue, weakness, cold hands and feet, chest pain, palpitations, headache, dizziness, heavy periods, brittle nails and hair loss. If you suspect any of these symptoms you should contact your doctor for an evaluation. Iron deficiency can be corrected, however it is important that you know your levels before supplementing, as unnecessary supplementation can lead to an iron overload. Iron-rich food sources include beans, dark green leafy vegetables, dried fruit, iron-fortified cereals, breads, pastas, peas, seafood, red meat, pork, poultry. Blood sugar imbalance can lead you on a cycle of fatigue, headaches, sugar cravings, weight gain, hunger and brain fog. Sometimes with a busy schedule it may be hard to be consistent with meal timing and quality. You may find yourself skipping meals, eating fast food, or making up for skipped meals at dinner time. The harm in this pattern is inconsistent blood sugar levels. After a meal the pancreas releases the hormone insulin. Insulin allows the cells of the body to absorb the glucose provided from food for energy, reducing blood sugar. If foods high in simple carbohydrates are eaten, the pancreas will release a large amount of insulin to rebalance the body. This causes a large drop in blood sugar that can lead to sudden feelings of fatigue and brain fog.

Tip: Eat meals and snacks that consist of protein, good fat, and carbohydrates. You will be fuller longer, have less cravings for unhealthy snacks, and maintain more energy. 2. Hydration. Water is so important to maintaining everyday health and is involved in every process of bodily function. In fact, the average adult loses about 6 pints of fluid a day in sweat, urine, bowel movements, and breathing. Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine can actually cause your body to excrete more water than normal due to its diuretic effects. Many people are walking around chronically dehydrated. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition, healthy women who failed to replace 1.5% of their water weight experienced adverse changes in cognitive function, mood and fatigue. Other symptoms of mild chronic dehydration may include headache, constipation, joint pain, back pain, dry skin and even high blood pressure. Tip: Aim to take in at least ½ your weight in ounces of water each day. (Example: 150 lb woman = 75 oz of water daily). If you are nowhere near this, you can increase your water intake gradually by adding an additional 8 oz. to your average daily intake each week. Try to track your intake by using a reusable, BPA-free plastic or glass container with graduations. 3. Sleep . According to the National Sleep Foundation women are more likely to struggle with insomnia, somnolence and www.NaturalNutmeg.com

fatigue. Additionally a poll taken showed that women ages 30-60 slept an average of six hours and 41 minutes on weeknights, which is lacking from the 7-9 hours of sleep recommended for adults. Sleep can be interrupted as a result of many factors including hormonal levels, daily stressors, or even poor sleep hygiene. Tip: Keep a sleep journal and avoid screens at least 30 minutes prior to bedtime. Make sure to talk to your doctor about your sleep patterns before starting any herbal or supplemental therapy. Offering All-Natural & Cruelty Free Waxing and Facial Servcies

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4. Exercise. Exercise as a cure for fatigue may seem counterintuitive, but the research has been consistent. A study performed by the University of Georgia found that sedentary people who regularly complain of fatigue can increase energy levels by 20% and decrease fatigue by 65% by engaging in regular, low intensity exercise. Tip: If exercise is not a part of your normal regimen, start slow. Work your way up to 30 minutes, 4-5 times a week. During the week, try adding a walk into your lunch break. 5. Thyroid Imbalance. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland responsible for producing hormones that control and

regulate your energy, metabolism, and many cellular functions of your body. One of the common thyroid disorders is hypothyroidism. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, depression, constipation, weight gain, dry skin, dry hair, irregular menstruation, low libido, intolerance to cold and enlarged thyroid. If you are experiencing the symptoms contact your doctor and ask for a comprehensive thyroid evaluation. Comprehensive thyroid tests include TSH, free T3, free T4, thyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulin antibody, reverse T3, and thyroid-specific nutrients. You can see there are so many reasons that you may have fatigue or daily low energy. Remember your body does not suffer from a coffee deficiency! It is always worth it to listen to your body and dig a little deeper to find the root cause of your imbalance. Dr. Mary Tracey sees patients in both West Hartford and Manchester, Connecticut at Collaborative Natural Health Partners. She is currently accepting new patients. For more information or questions, please call 860.533.0179 or visit www.ctnaturalhealth.com. See ad on page 18.

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Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

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“Get on the Ball!”

By Sharon Sklar, Certified Advanced Rolfer

y undergraduate degree was in sculpture from Boston University. We studied the human form with two years of anatomy and my last two years had a project each year of a life size sculpture. We built armatures which were the skeletal support and then modelled the clay, covering the “bones” in realistic, anatomyspecific muscles. Over those years, I grew to love the human body. A year out of college, my fascination with the body-mind connection had me reading everything I could on the subject. It made total sense to me that we can’t separate the body from the mind and vice versa. Stuckness in the body creates a stuckness in the mind. An out of balance hip from a fall on the ice last year can create physical stress and strain patterns that don’t allow the body to heal or move freely. This imbalance can then lead to hip, knee and back problems, perhaps resulting in a hip replacement in the coming years. Depression and sadness can develop from the pain. I have spent the last 40 years studying and doing structural bodywork called Rolfing®. It is direct manipulation of the connective tissue of the body that brings us back to organization and balance after disruption. The accidents, injuries and traumas of life can shift our physical reality so that we are out of balance. Our traumas, our grief and our injuries can get stuck in the body. I found in my work as a Rolfer; a way to promote relief and release.

Roll out stress, roll in ease with Yamuna® Body Rolling Rolfing practice, I taught all of my clients to use a raquetball to juice up and soften the tension around the mid to upper back which released tightness in the neck, shoulders and between the shoulder blades. The other place of great benefit was working in the fleshy part of the buttocks to release deep tightness that led to lower back and hamstring tightness. ®

What a success! People loved their raquetballs. They felt looser and could commit to two or three minutes a day for self-care. The down side was that a raquetball was too small to work the low back, waist and abdomen without causing spasms and risking injury. Flash forward to 2004. I was introduced to another form of ball release work called Yamuna® Body Rolling (YBR). It involved rolling on a series of balls that are

smaller than basketballs. The technique was specific and had structure behind it, not the arbitrary “roll it out” that I knew before. I was intrigued and entered a training in NYC right away. This self-massage technique uses specially designed balls that absorb weight and deliver maximum benefits. YBR is tailored to your body by changing the pressure you use and is the perfect choice for at-home care. The benefits of YBR include: • effective self-massage • releases and re-educates muscles • strengthens and tones your body • provides weight-bearing exercise • improves bone density • core strengthening • heals and prevents injury I designed and am teaching a two-hour introductory workshop that explores movement and freedom from your feet to your head. The workshop is fun and informative. Much of the work is done on a yoga mat or

In the late 70’s, I came across an incredible book, “The Body Has Its Reasons,” (now out of print) written by a French physical therapist Therese Bertherat. Her premise was to use our own body weight over balls of different sizes to release muscular tightness throughout the body. In my www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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standing against a wall. Mostly all positions on the floor can be altered to accommodate the use of a chair. There is foot release work which improves foot fitness and stability and balance throughout the body.

• the freedom of a back and hips that move and swing. • shoulders that are relaxed and easy, not carrying the weight of the world. Come and explore Yamuna® Body Rolling. Workshops are being offered in April and May at various locations (see my website www.SharonSklarRolfing.com or check the Calendar of Natural Nutmeg for April 4th and 25th workshops). Private or semi-private sessions are available. Sharon Sklar is in her 39th year of private practice as a Certified Advanced Rolfer. State licensed and the only Rolfer in Central CT, Sharon works with direct manipulation of the soft tissue of the body and movement re-education over a ten-session series to help her clients feel freer, get more balanced and reduce chronic pain. Visit her website www.SharonSklarRolfing.com and read the several testimonials from years of satisfied clients. Call 860.561.4337 for more info or to schedule a consultation. Inquiries are encouraged. Feel free. Move well. Get Rolfed! See ad on page 30.

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Spring Clean Your Financial Records: 3 Strategies for Success By Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, MBA, AWMA®

s April a breath of fresh air for you? Do you look forward to temperatures rising and chirping birds resuming their seasonal singing? Are you inspired to get moving again and do a bit of spring cleaning? Use this month to organize your financial records! As a recovering “statement squirrel,” I can attest to the peace of mind that an organized approach to financial records provides. For years, whenever I opened a piece of mail, I’d feel tightness in my chest and a knot in my stomach as I wondered, “How important is this?” “Do I need to keep this?” “How long do I need to keep this?” I managed this anxiety by keeping as many papers for as long as possible hidden as discreetly as possible. In my first apartment, I shoved important documents in a special storage box in the bottom of my bedroom closet. Then after I married another statement squirrel, my husband and I bought a couple of filing cabinets and a fire-proof safe to store our respective and combined piles. Over time, he and I began using electronic storage to scan and retain everything, though we were inconsistent doing it. No matter what I did, inevitably every month I’d discover (at least) one paper grocery bag of “important papers I need to go through when I have a few minutes,” and I’d worry that I was missing something. I learned from trusted friends who were “tornado trashers,” that they worried, too. In their compulsion to get rid of documents, they wondered if they were managing their records “right." Today were they keeping the items that mattered? Tomorrow would they regret the documents that they shred?

CATEGORY

DESCRIPTION

EXAMPLE

Immediate Files

Items from the past year

Budget monitoring and management records

Intermediate Files

Items you monitor for multiple years

Financial and tax planning files

Forever Files

Items you oversee forever or until they change

Estate planning documents

If any of this resonates with you, here are three steps you can follow to increase your control managing your financial records and decrease your stress: 1. Understand the purpose of each document. Different financial records serve different purposes. For instance: • Budget monitoring and management: pay stubs, bills, and bank account statements provide clarity on day-today spending. You can use these to monitor and adjust your behaviors, live within your means, and pay off debt. • Financial and tax planning: investment statements, insurance policies, tax returns and supporting information, ongoing debt obligations (mortgages, student loans, etc.), and financial plans prepared by your Certified Financial PlannerTM. You can use these to understand what you own, what you owe, and what’s currently available to you to pay for your financial goals over time.

• Estate planning: trusts, wills, health care proxies, and powers of attorney documents. You can use these to stipulate the people and processes to protect and execute your wishes when your life as you know it changes. The next time you read a financial record, think of which purpose it fits. You may find that in time, and with practice, this approach makes reviewing the paperwork more intuitive and less burdensome. 2. Organize your documents according to how you use them. As you begin to look at your financial documents according to the different purposes that they fill, it becomes easier to organize them according to how you use them. Consider keeping “short term” items together and “long term” items together, and bucket them into one of three categories according to when you need to access them: 3. Follow a simple process that works for you. After organizing your files into categories according to their purpose and when www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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you need to access them, experiment with how best to store them. You know best what brings you peace of mind. Whether it’s keeping your financial records in a canvas bag, electronic media, or some other combination, there is no “right” way for all people to do this. Be patient, be gentle, and allow yourself the freedom to try out and develop in time a sustainable approach that protects your information and works for you. Some widely-used organization techniques you may find helpful include: • Even if you use different media to store files (e.g. technology + safe + bins) keep all of the media in one place (e.g. your home office). • Organize the documents within and across the different media according to a logic that is intuitive and memorable for you. • Apply the same organization logic to all types of your financial records. For more strategies to organize your financial records, including how long to keep different documents and how to protect them, join me on Saturday, April 11 at Panera Bread in Westport for “Second Saturdays with Caroline.” For more info, check out Caroline Wetzel CFP on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, and visit https://secondsaturdayscarolinewetzelcfp.eventbrite.com/.

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Caroline Wetzel is one of Natural Nutmeg’s 2019 and 2018 10Best Winners for Business/Life Coach. Caroline is a Certified Financial PlannerTM (CFP®) and Vice President, Private Wealth Advisor with Procyon Private Wealth Partners, LLC. Procyon Private Wealth Partners, LLC and Procyon Institutional Partners, LLC (collectively “Procyon Partners”) are registered investment advisors with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). This article is provided for informational purposes only and for the intended recipient[s] only. This article may also include opinions and forwardlooking statements which may not come to pass. Information is at a point in time and subject to change. Procyon Partners does not provide tax or legal advice. See ad on page 36.

COVID-19: The Case for Preventive, Immunosupportive Therapy By Antonio Reale, ND, MS

n recent weeks, healthcare providers and government officials have issued warnings against the spread of COVID-19, commonly referred to as coronavirus. Cases of COVID-19 are increasing exponentially, affecting global markets, airline travel, and virtually every sector of human interaction and exchange. With the amount of cases increasing here in the U.S. and the number of illnesses yet to reach its peak, there is heightened alert and a call for action. What can we do? COVID-19: What Is It? Although loosely referred to as coronavirus, COVID-19 is a strain of an already well known family of viruses, Coronaviridae. Human coronaviruses are known to cause flu-like symptoms and spread in a way that is similar to the common cold, so what makes this disease different? COVID-19 is a novel strain that for the first time is present in humans. Unlike other Coronaviruses, COVID-19 is unprecedented, which means scientists are still working to understand and map its spread and a vaccine is not yet available. While symptoms mimic those of the common flu virus, strains of COVID-19 have proven deadlier, resulting in a much higher fatality rate, especially in those who are immunocompromised.

Symptoms & Transmission Although researchers are still studying the specifics when it comes to transmission, we know COVID-19 follows a similar mode of transmission as other viruses, person-to-person contact. Infected individuals spread the virus through respiratory droplets while coughing or sneezing, as well as when coming into close contact with objects handled by someone infected with the virus. While some individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 are asymptomatic, carrying the virus without knowing it, others experience symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, and fever, sometimes up to two weeks after exposure, making early detection more difficult. Immune-Modulating Herbs & Supplements The immune system is our body's defense system, a virtual army of cells that exists to protect us from outside invaders, whether bacteria, viruses, or other foreign agents. It makes sense, then, to strengthen our immune system during times of heightened illness.

We can do this through herbs that increase white blood cells, such as Astragalus, Echincaea, and Andrographis, as well as medicinal mushrooms like Reishi. A very specific type of white blood cell, the Natural Killer (NK) cell, is aptly named because of its role in ridding the body of foreign invaders. A proprietary blend of the mushroom, active hexose correlated compound (AHCC), is remarkably efficient at increasing the body's level of NK cells and therefore, host defense. AHCC has been studied for the adjuvant treatment of cancer and for its role in treating other viral infections, such as HPV and influenza. This is in addition to other immune supporting herbs, including one of my favorites for pediatric patients, Sambucus nigra. Sambucus, known commonly as Elderberry, is a great herb for boosting the immune systems of children because of its mild taste and because it lends itself well to syrups. I'll often use Elderberry syrup as a base for formulas with potent antiviral herbs since it helps to mask the strong flavor of other herbs. While the use of immune-modulating herbs and supplements may not directly treat or eradicate COVID-19, we can strengthen and support the body's defense system, rendering ourselves more resilient to outside infection. While generally safe for short periods, long-term use of immune-boosting herbs like Echinacea can be problematic for those suffering from autoimmune conditions so check with a healthcare professional before supplementing. Antiviral Herbs & Nutrients Nature is blessed with an array of potent antiviral herbs, in addition to vitamins and minerals that can help both boost the immune system and fight viral infections. While it's not possible to say whether these herbs exert their antiviral activity against COVID-19, botanical formulas can help reduce illness, helping to differentiate between this novel strain of coronavirus and other viral infections with similar symptoms. We can create botanical formulas to include antiviral herbs such as Lomatium, Ligusticum, and Thuja, all of which exhibit strong antimicrobial properties by producing cytokines, a group of proteins that stimulates the body's immune response. Research has demonstrated antiviral properties of vitamin A and zinc, and zinc's role in supporting the immune system is well studied. Vitamin D, long praised for its ability to boost immunity, is one of the www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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most important nutrients during cold and flu season, especially in parts of the country where levels drop during the winter, such as New England. Antiviral formulas may not be necessary for those who are not experiencing symptoms, but ensuring adequate levels of nutrients that are immunosupportive is essential in preventing the spread of an illness with pandemic potential. Prevention: Lifestyle, Diet & Stress When it comes to prevention, the most obvious and yet most essential advice is to practice proper handwashing. If you're not sure how long you should be washing your hands, the CDC recommends 20 seconds of vigorous scrubbing; (if in doubt, you can sing happy birthday song twice). A less obvious mode of prevention is to take a closer look at stress. Stressors weaken our immune system, giving foreign invaders a chance to thrive, which is why cold sores (caused by the herpes virus), tend to increase during times of stress. There are many effective ways to manage stress, from yoga and daily meditation to herbal supplements, but we can start by ensuring a good night's rest. Our diet can play a role in the body's defense system against foreign invaders. We know that increasing our sugar intake can temporarily lower white blood cell counts, weakening the immune system and making us more susceptible to infections. Diets high in sugar are never beneficial, but we should be especially cautious and limit sugar intake when under the weather. Although there is no specific treatment for those infected with COVID-19, naturopathic medicine has much to offer in the way of immune support and antiviral therapies to strengthen our body's immune response and to help differentiate between other viral illnesses. Taking a proactive approach to building our body's defense barrier is a smart first step in not only preventing the spread of COVID-19, but protecting ourselves from a novel strain of virus that has yet to reach its peak. Antonio Reale, ND, MS is a licensed naturopathic physician and nutritionist practicing in Wethersfield and Middlebury. He specializes in personalized botanical medicine and is founder of The Herbal Room, a multidisciplinary wellness center in Wethersfield, with an in-house botanical dispensary. Dr. Reale also sees patients weekly at a satellite office in Middlebury. For insurance information and scheduling, visit theherbal-room.com. 860.257.7210. See ad on page 35.

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

Tackling the Myths About CBD By Rebekah Fernandez

our CBD Stores’ is a Bio/Plant Science Company offering SunMed CBD-Rich Hemp oil extracts. The boutique-style educational centers offer the highest-quality, award-winning CBD (Cannabidiol). In June 2018, the first ever Connecticut location for Florida-based Sunflora selling CBD under the SunMed brand was opened in Milford. A year and a half later, Connecticut now boasts 22 locations. The 465th location in Manchester owned by Kevin and Brittany O’Connor is managed by Rebekah Fernandez.

Myth 2: All CBD is the same.

“Since our grand opening for Your CBD Store Manchester this past fall we are over the moon with the overwhelming response from our customers. Our first few days adults from diverse backgrounds and ages with various issues sought us out, seeking information and a place to tell the story of what they were going through. We often have customers waiting in our parking lot for us to open and many times we stay open past closing time to accommodate everyone,” says Fernandez.

Myth 3: All CBD is safe to consume.

Your CBD Stores is now the largest brick and mortar CBD outlet in the world with 600 locations in the U.S. and stores overseas. In a marketplace exploding with CBD products, where everything from bath bombs to gummy bears is available online, at health food stores and gas stations, what’s a consumer to do? Let’s tackle some of the myths about CBD, which is even beginning to gain credibility within the scientific and medical communities. A year ago, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug Epidiolex for the treatment of seizures associated with some forms of epilepsy. According to FDA’s website, “This is the first FDA-approved drug that contains a purified drug substance derived from marijuana. CBD is a chemical component of the Cannabis sativa plant, more commonly known as marijuana.” According to the website for the National Cancer Institute, an affiliate of the National Institute of Health, “Cannabinoids may help treat the symptoms of cancer or side effects of cancer treatment.” Myth 1: CBD only comes from the marijuana plant and will make you high. Fact: You can get CBD from a marijuana plant, but it’s going to be low in concentration. The highest concentration of CBD and the other Cannabinoids comes from industrial hemp. The marijuana plant is high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and very low in CBD. CBD is not mind-altering and you cannot get addicted to it. CBD interacts with the body very differently from THC. It does not produce a “high.” There is no THC in any of the SunFlora/SunMed organic hemp products (which include Hemp oil sublingual, water soluble, topical creams, capsules, edibles, oil vaporizer, skin care, other beauty products, and options for pets).

Fact: The fact is, industrial hemp is the correct plant to extract CBD from. Where in the plant it is extracted and the process used effects the quality. Extracting it from the flower provides the highest concentration of CBD. Many companies extract it from the seed or the stem, which is an easier and cheaper process. SunFlora/SunMed regulates everything from the soil to the oil and products come from a Colorado farm certified by Colorado’s Department of Agriculture. Fact: Because CBD is unregulated by the FDA there are only a few good companies in the market. You must be careful where you get it from. The process SunFlora/SunMed uses is called critical CO2 extraction, which extracts the healthiest portion of the plant matter out without taking chemical solvents in with the product. “We use third-party testing labs that have been recognized for setting the standards in this industry. Many companies do not show that same transparency with third-party testing. When testing other company’s products, we found trace amounts of chemical solvents in the plant matter. We’ve seen this in many products on the market. We have one of the safest, cleanest products out on the market,” Fernandez says. A recent study conducted by UCONN showed that less than 67 out of 100 CBD products tested properly. These were pulled from shelves of health food stores, gas stations, vape shops and online. Due to these results, it is obvious that not all CBD products are the same. The SunFlora/SunMed policy is transparency and excellence. Double lab testing, proper extraction in an FDA registered lab, hemp sourced from a USDA regulated farm, even passing the grueling test of becoming one of the first USDA organic and Kosher Certified products on the market are just some of the ways SunFlora/SunMed have stayed true to customers. Although the industry hasn’t called for such rigorous standards, the company feels it’s a necessary standard and future benchmark that all CBD companies should stand up to. Your CBD Stores approach is simple. Empower others through education! Being properly educated is very powerful as it allows others power of choice in the matter of their life and the quality they seek. Rebekah Fernandez is also one of over 3,000 Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Educators for SunFlora’s Your CBD Stores. Your CBD Store Manchester offers informative events. Inquiries can be sent via email to: manchester465@cbdrx4u.com. More information on events can be found on Facebook @yourcbdstoremanchesterct, by calling 860.791.8368 or visiting their location of #59 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm, Sundays 11am-5pm. See ad on page 25. www.NaturalNutmeg.com 23

The Growing Incidence of Autoimmune Disease

By Jaquel Patterson, ND

he incidence of autoimmune conditions grows yearly, particularly rheumatic conditions, though there is limited scientific proof why the immune system inappropriately attacks itself. There are a variety of reasons that autoimmune conditions can be exacerbated, particularly stress, sun, or chronic disease conditions. With over 80 different types of autoimmune conditions, the most prevalent being multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, it may take several doctor visits before being formally diagnosed. As a naturopathic physician, you always need to ask these questions with any patient you see, “what is the underlying cause” and “what is the initiating factor”. For some individuals, autoimmune conditions may be hereditary, women are affected more commonly, as well as specific ethnic groups. Hormones Studies have shown that the X chromosome has a higher significance of genes as compared to the Y chromosome; women are XX and men XY. Additionally, estrogen affects the immune system directly particularly for genetically susceptible individuals. It is important to look at the role hormones may have on an autoimmune condition if not regulated well. Hormonal blood testing can be completed as well as specialty tests for a comprehensive review of hormones and metabolites to clearly identify if there is a hormonal imbalance that can be properly addressed through hormone therapy, nutritional

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

supplementation, diet and lifestyle. Some common herbs used to regulate hormones include vitex/chaste tree, DIM (found in cruciferous vegetables), and dong quai. Leaky Gut and Food Sensitivities In addition to hormones as possible triggers, gastrointestinal function must be looked at. Individuals with gastrointestinal issues like IBS have been found to have more T cells and mast cells in their intestine as compared to others. T cells produce an immune response against pathogens; if imbalanced, your immune system does not function correctly. Also, leaky gut (a weak lining of the gastrointestinal tract) has been linked with higher incidences of autoimmune disease, e.g. lupus, and MS. The barrier of the gut must be supported to decrease inflammation, and consumption of processed foods, alcohol, and coffee will exacerbate conditions. Also, gluten and dairy have been found to be inflammatory and individuals with food sensitivities will be more affected. I would recommend reviewing food allergies and sensitivities to determine if there is a daily, aggravating factor on the system due to food consumption. You may want to consider high dose probiotics including spore-based probiotics. There are many varieties of probiotic types that can be recommended by a naturopathic physician or functional medicine doctor. Several supplements help to repair the gastrointestinal tract, for example, l-glutamine or deglycyrrhizinated licorice and

pre-biotics like arabinogalactan, which is also an immune-modulator that may help. Stress Stress plays a huge role in autoimmune conditions. It causes inflammation and may be the initiating factor for an autoimmune flare-up. It exposes you to a greater chance of adrenal fatigue, insomnia and gastrointestinal issues. You must make the time to find something every day that brings you joy and provides a sense of happiness and calm. Even 5 minutes a day of meditation, prayer or other spiritual practice have been shown to have dramatic improvements on cortisol levels, serotonin, epinephrine and melatonin. A trained practitioner can help you to complete adrenal function tests to pinpoint exactly where you need supportive care for your adrenal glands. Adaptogenic herbs like ginseng, holy basil, ashwaganda and rhodiola may provide some symptomatic relief in addition to adrenal glandulars for stress. Lifestyle management is a key first point of care. Infections and Molecular Mimicry Why does the body mistakenly attack its immune system and is unable to differentiate self from non-self? It can be frustrating when you are not feeling better, when diet and lifestyle do not resolve your autoimmune conditions, and treatment is ridding of the pain but still hasn’t improved your energy. Something commonly overlooked, and what I’m going to spend most of my time discussing here, are infections

as related to autoimmunity. In my practice, infections are a common root cause of autoimmune conditions, and when we address these infections patients’ autoimmune conditions begin to improve significantly. There is a scientific term called molecular mimicry that has been associated with autoimmune conditions and shown to be a leading mechanism to induce autoimmunity due to parasites, bacteria, viruses, mycotoxins, metals and chemicals. It has long been linked to autoimmune disease but only most recently has gained attention. Molecular mimicry can trigger an immune response against what is called autoantigens. An autoantigen is a protein that is recognized by the immune system for people with autoimmune disease. A person can obtain an infection, like Epstein Barr virus, Strep or Mycoplasma, that has antigens that look similar to the person’s antigens. This resemblance of antigens by bacteria or viruses can activate T cells and thereby become autoreactive. This continual series of events can begin to create what is a called a loss of self-tolerance and serve as initiating factor for autoimmune conditions. Many people have multiple infections and exposures over their lifetime. It is important to continue to create and maintain a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, sleep and supplementation, if needed, to allow your body to get rid of them in a timely basis. Persistent infections that are not managed well can increase the possibility of initiating autoimmunity. Let’s outline some examples of autoimmune conditions that have been connected to some infections. For the past 60 years, proposed mechanisms of etiology for multiple sclerosis (MS) link MS to persistent viral infections. Close to two dozen viruses have been found in the brains of patients with MS including ones like herpes, and retrovirus. Neurological lyme disease mimics many MS symptoms (e.g. headaches, stiff neck, memory and ability to process information, fatigue, coordination challenges) and can act to trigger MS. Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) or herpesvirus 4, affects a majority of the population at large, over 90%. Research links its connection to systemic autoimmunity; particularly for conditions like lupus (SLE). Studies have shown patients with lupus having higher titers of EBV antibodies as compared to the healthy population. EBV causes T cells to produce more pro-inflammatory mediators (i.e. cytokines) for systemic autoimmunity. Studies have shown EBV antigen-1 having similar autoantigens in lupus which could possibly enable disease pathogenesis.

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A more recently known autoimmune condition affecting children, (PANDAS) pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections and (PANS) pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome occurs due to an infection, like strep, that triggers an immune response that causes inflammation in a child’s brain. A child may have an acute onset of symptoms not previously seen like OCD, anxiety, tics, mood and temperamental changes, restrictive eating, declining abilities in math and writing, behavioral regression, sleep changes, urinary and sensory issues.

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Conventional medicine may look at antibiotic use and antiviral drugs. It is important to be mindful of longer term use of these treatments on your system, particularly gastrointestinal system and long-term immune function. You should first get tested to see if some of these infections exist within your system and be fully evaluated. Here are some natural treatments to consider for support with infections and viruses. Low dose immunotherapy (LDI): LDI is a frequent therapy we use in our clinical practice at Fairfield Family Health and is an off-shoot from low dose allergen (LDA)

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Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

created by Dr. Ty Vincent. Our office is the first in the state of Connecticut to provide low dose immunotherapy (LDI) for patients; there are approximately 200 practitioners in the LDI network. LDI helps the immune system restore balance by reducing inflammation caused by infections. LDI contains specific antigens, like Epstein barr, lyme, or strep, and it diminishes the abnormally activated TH2 immune system and creates immune tolerance and acceptance, rather than suppression. Natural antibiotics and antivirals: There are many known natural antibiotics that can help to decrease infections. Research has demonstrated garlic’s impact on bacteria like E.coli. In other countries, honey is commonly used for wound and burn repair. A 2011 study demonstrated honey’s ability to inhibit 60 different kinds of bacteria and treat MRSA successfully. Goldenseal is one of my favorite natural antibiotics; it contains berberine (which is not safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or infants). It supports issues related to the mucosal tract like respiratory, digestive and urinary issues. Oregano has been well studied for its effectiveness to boost the immune system and its antioxidant properties for both bacterial and viral infections. Elderberry syrup, Sambuca, is a popular antiviral used particularly during the cold and flu months. Licorice root is very effective for herpes and acute respiratory issues, but should not be taken by individuals with high blood pressure. There are multiple approaches to get to the root cause of autoimmune conditions. It is important to have support through a trained professional like a naturopathic physician that can complete a full assessment, physical, blood work, specialty testing and recommend supplements that are specific to you and only you. Dr. Jaquel Patterson is a nationally and internationally recognized naturopathic physician, sought-after speaker, and best-selling author. She is the Medical Director and Owner of Fairfield Family Health in Fairfield, a multi-disciplinary integrative medical practice. Her areas of specialty are Lyme disease, autoimmune conditions, anxiety/depression, and PANS/PANDAS. She's the Immediate Past President of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. 203.254.9957. info@fairfieldfamilyhealth.com, www.fairfieldfamilyhealth.com. See ad on page 3.

Emotional Intelligence is a Great Dining Companion

By Paige Dest

ou’ve probably heard it said, “You are what you eat.” But do you find yourself eating what you are – feeling, that is? The food we eat may be closely related to the emotions we are feeling. Emotional eating can not only take a big toll on your physical health, but it can take a toll on your emotional health. Comfort food may not always be that comforting, especially if you find yourself using it to comfort your emotions. Eating for your emotions may be instantly satisfying, but in the long run it can be a huge let down. You may eat because you’re depressed and falsely believe that eating something sweet will sweeten your emotion. You may eat because you’re bored and use it as a way of filling up your time; or maybe you eat certain foods to celebrate an event, but emotional eating can often lead to feelings of guilt or regret later on. Practicing Emotional Intelligence (EQ) with food and using it to guide your eating habits can lead to better health. EQ is the ability to be aware of your emotions, in the moment, and to use that information to make better choices. And by using EQ, you can change the emotional dynamics of how you think about food and how you behave around food. So, before you begin to spoon down a gallon of ice cream, unwrap that chocolate bar, or reach for a third helping of hearty soup, try thinking about the four quadrants of EQ. 1. Self-Awareness. Think about why you’re reaching for the food. Is it because you are actually hungry, or is it because you are stressed, angry, sad, or bored? Is it because you want to celebrate a great accomplishment? Naming your emotion is one of the first steps in practicing EQ. Then be curious. Why are you feeling this emotion? Try to understand the story the emotion is telling you and then decide how you want that story to end. Remember, emotions are neither “good” nor “bad”, each serves a purpose. It’s what you think, say, and do based on the emotion that is constructive or destructive. Don’t suppress your emotions. Allow them to “be” themselves, otherwise, you may miss the data they reveal. 2. Self-Management. Make good decisions about when, where, and how you eat. Take time to eat. This will not only allow you to enjoy your food, but will help with digestion since it takes time for your system to realize how full you are. Try to sit down and unplug so you aren’t distracted by outside forces that cause you to lose track of how fast you’re eating. This can cause

you to overeat. Use your senses to enjoy the experience – look at the texture, shape, and colors of the food; smell the aromas; imagine the taste and allow your mouth to salivate, which begins the digestive process. 3. Social Awareness. We are social by nature, so whenever possible, eat with others. If appropriate, hold hands before the meal and make a statement of gratitude. Skin to skin contact can reduce stress and eating with family and/or friends and can help you feel safe and loved, releasing oxytocin, the “love” hormone. Eating with others can help you slow down the pace of eating, as you talk together, laugh together, and enjoy your time together. 4. Relationship Management. Try changing the way you think about food by rethinking your relationship with it. Visualize the food in a new way; think of water as a way of cleansing your system, an apple as a way of being closer to nature, and spinach as strengthening your bones and beautifying your skin. Eating healthy foods, for the right reasons, can extend the benefits beyond the table. Make sure to get enough sleep (generally speaking, 8 hours). If you’re tired, you may more readily grab a sugary treat for a quick energy blast. And that’s just what it will be – a blast that won’t last, except perhaps on your hips. Life is about balance and that includes what we eat. Be mindful of what you eat, but don’t obsess over it. You may be causing yourself stress and undoing all the healthy eating habits you’ve built into your day. Pay attention to extreme emotions and the triggers or patterns of emotions enticing you to munch. They could be the warning bell before the physical effects kick in. If you have to give yourself “permission” to eat a particular food, it could be a “heads up” that you should contemplate the decision before taking that bite. In the end, just remember, you are what you eat, but you don’t have to eat what you are "feeling." Paige Dest is a certified Emotional Intelligence Coach and Core Values Index Practitioner. As the owner and President of BYODestiny, she provides emotional intelligence coaching to individuals and presents retreats, workshops, and national webinars on emotional intelligence and related topics. She may be reached by emailing her at paige@BYODestiny.com or by calling 1.860.550.1844. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Inner and Outer Climate Change: A Creative Response

By Pat Heavren, MHSA

n spite of our human longing for a better future, change doesn’t happen easily, even in the face of dire threat. Perhaps that’s why New Year diet resolutions and the ten-year goals set by the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity mostly go unmet. As a result, carbs and carbon are likely to increase. One month or one decade into what we hoped would be eventualities for the better, we find ourselves boomeranged back to the gate for another serial start. Why are most attempts to craft an improved tomorrow reminiscent of the movie Groundhog Day? What goes awry in the genuine pursuit of necessary change? We’re too quick to sacrifice what’s now for what’s new.

Our landfills are filling fast with the evidence. Keeping pace alongside the dumping grounds of tossed-away possessions are say-goodbye lists of personal conditions and circumstances that no longer suit our fancy: extra pounds, a challenging relationship, an addiction that’s the sign of an insatiable appetite for feeling good or refusing to feel at all, the latest trend we’ve labeled as “toxic.” This is in spite of the fact that cures are often formed from, “the hair of the dog that bit us.” Hasty exits are often the wise response. But without honoring the past and keeping an heirloom seed to plant in the fertile ground which naturally becomes tomorrow, we too often dispose of tangibles and intangibles long before their value and utility have actually been lost. Our technological upgrades live the same hotminute lifespans as our downgraded attention spans. As a result, our personal and global world shapes around an illusion of separation rather than the recognition that every bit is part of the whole and has contributing value, even as forms appear and disappear, shift, evolve, and adapt. We lose awareness of the links with yesterday and the tomorrow we hoped to bring about in the first place: not a future cast in stone by some well-thought-out plan, but one that seeks fertility in the most barren of right-now moments. As we stand at the threshold of what scientists are calling the planet’s sixth era of mass extinction, maybe the answer is to

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

return to what naturally occurs when we fail to meet our strategic goals, hopes, and dreams or find they collide with those of others. What might happen if we returned to the bottom of the landfill to recover what we cast off days, weeks, or ages ago, for all that glistened and turned out not to be gold? Could the extra body weight we carry become precious evidence of untapped reserves and our desire to lose it be the impulse to share those resources with others? Could patterns of addiction be rediscovered as measures of tremendous commitment and loyalty? Could mining the landfill become a life-affirming practice? As creative beings, we are hardwired to plot our way toward more preferable outcomes, to achieve something better than what we have. We’re programmed to reshape ourselves and influence the world we live in. Though it sometimes gets in our way, it can’t be left behind. Our goal orientation needs a partner. Mother Earth has been around a long time and is a consummate recycler. Human beings are relative newcomers, once just another neighbor in Her blue-green garden before evolving to our present species-centric form. Perhaps if we stepped back to realign with the Mother at the start gate, following Her good lead of fertility-making by reusing everything and wasting nothing, we might stand a chance of dodging dire predictions. After all, She is the master conductor of the whole symphony of magnificent parts. Perhaps partnering with our origins represents the kind of change in climate that isn’t to be forestalled, but to be urgently hurried forth. Maybe then the future will naturally unfold and take care of itself, and us, in ways our resolutions, goals and plans never could all on their own. Maybe this is the fertile path to the future we’ve all been longing for. Pat Heavren, MHSA, is a coach, consultant, mediator and teacher whose passion is helping others to grow their personal vitality and professional leadership by aligning with the wisdom of the natural world. She is the author of Magic in Plain Sight: When Acceptance is the Healing and is former senior teaching faculty with the Four Winds Society’s International School of Energy Medicine. She can be reached at www.livingsource.us. See ad on page 22.

Your Mouth Has Gotten You Into Trouble!

By Mark Breiner, DDS

any of my patients come in with a myriad of health problems, dental concerns and an extensive history of dental procedures. People are not aware that problems in the mouth are responsible for many of our health problems. In fact, several holistic MD’s that spoke at a recent conference I attended refer 70- 80% of their patients to a knowledgeable, experienced, holistic dentist because they cannot substantially help their patients until the dental issues are addressed. Dental Concerns There are several major dental issues that have a direct effect on one’s health:

is so important to look at a sample of your plaque under a microscope to determine if you have good or bad bugs. You may have gums that look healthy, but a bad slide indicates another type of hidden infection.

5. Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD). The temporomandibular joint is the joint in front of your ear. If the relationship of your upper jaw to your lower jaw is not correct, it can cause TMD. TMD can cause headaches, migraines, dizziness, neck and back aches, among other things. When one’s dental arches are narrow and the tongue is too large for the space, this often will lead to snoring and There is no safe sleep apnea, with all its attendant health problevel of mercury lems. An abnormal bite in children has been associated with sensory issues, ADD, poor sleep, in the body. fatigue and more.

1. Silver fillings. The so-called “silver” fillings are about 50% mercury. The mercury comes off the fillings as a vapor and can penetrate one’s cells. Anything that stimulates the fillings such as brushing or chewing will substantially increase the amount of mercury vapor coming off the fillings. There is no safe level of mercury in the body. Yes, it is a small amount that comes out, but it is cumulative. The more fillings you have, the more mercury you have in your brain. Mercury also crosses the placental barrier and into the developing fetus, and accumulates in the mother’s milk. The perils of mercury go on and on. Caveat – mercury is dangerous and safe removal of mercury fillings requires knowledge in what to do before, during, and after their replacement.

2. Root canals. Root-canaled teeth are dead teeth and they give off potent toxins. If the immune system cannot quarantine the toxins, research shows that they can cause many diseases including heart disease, stroke, arthritis and much more. In fact, one study showed the DNA of pathogens typical for root canals and for periodontal infection were present in the blood clots of patients with acute myocardial infarction. 3. Hidden Dental Infections. Teeth that are dead and asymptomatic can go undetected without a thorough screening. These teeth can be even more toxic than root-canaled teeth. 4. Periodontal Disease. Today it is well documented that if you have periodontal disease, you have a higher chance of having a heart problem, stroke, pre-mature birth and more. This is why it

6. Energetic Interferences. Every tooth and its surrounding structures are on an acupuncture meridian and relate to specific organs, vertebrae, and muscle groups. An unhealthy or root-canaled tooth can interfere with the energy flow along the meridian and can affect those associated organs and tissues. However, it is a two-way street and sometimes tooth pain is being caused by an organ problem. It is important to know this relationship because sometimes root canals are done unnecessarily. 7. Electrical Interferences. When dissimilar metals are placed in a salt water solution, like saliva, a current is generated. Mercury fillings and other metals in the mouth sometimes generate enough current to interfere with your meridians. 8. Sleep Apnea. Many cases of sleep apnea go undiagnosed. Research shows that sleep apnea is associated with many health problems such as stroke, heart disease, fatigue, high blood pressure and more. Often the underlying issue is dental, with the tongue not having enough room within the oral cavity thus causing impingement of the airway. Some of the indicators are crowded teeth, narrow dental arches, tongue-tied, TMD and a retruded chin. 9. Esthetics. If one is not happy with their smile, this can have a psychological effect on one’s self image. Low self esteem and not wanting to smile has a negative effect on one’s health. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Good oral health is so vital to good general health that I coined the term “Whole-Body Dentistry®”. It is impossible to have one without the other. A WholeBody Dentist is like a detective figuring out the impact of dental issues on one’s health, and vice versa. A Whole-Body Dentist sees everything through a different filter, and can profoundly affect the health of their patients in a positive way. Educate yourself - don’t let your mouth get you into trouble! Mark A. Breiner, DDS, is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of biological and holistic dentistry. He is a health visionary with over 30 years of experience in helping patients find solutions to baffling, unresolved health problems—even those that are seemingly unrelated to dentistry. Dr. Breiner is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a past-president and Fellow of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. He is the author of Whole-Body Dentistry®: A Complete Guide to Understanding the Impact of Dentistry on Total Health. Dr. Breiner practices dentistry in Fairfield, Connecticut. For further information visit www.wholebodydentistry.com. Or call 203.371.0300 ext.1. See ad on page 32.

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Boost Your Immune Health with Antioxidants and Prana Veda

healthy immune system reduces your chance of viral infection and flu. Many people are curious about the best way to boost their immune health, and Nariveda has developed a product called Prana Veda that is uniquely positioned to deliver immune-boosting benefits via a network of antioxidants versus single antioxidant. Prana Veda also delivers AyurFlora Probiotics that helps the immune system along with minerals like Zinc and 90 + trace minerals. Prana Veda taken along with a diet rich in antioxidants helps to keep you healthy and prevent chronic diseases. Antioxidants protect your body’s cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Antioxidants are nutrients found naturally in food, especially in dark and brightly colored vegetables and fruits. An antioxidant can be a vitamin, mineral, or phytochemical (a naturally occurring plant substance), but the human body manufactures an inadequate quantity of antioxidants. Free radicals that produced inside the human body might be eliminated by the body’s individual natural antioxidant protection mechanism. Thus this shortage has to be remunerated using external plant-based natural compounds. Why Supplement with Prana Veda 1. Aides with immunity and stress. We created Prana Veda to compliment an antioxidant-rich diet to boost your immune health and provide you with a core cellular network of antioxidants. Each antioxidant serves a different function and is not interchangeable with another. This is why it is essential to have a network of antioxidants. They are unique as they greatly enhance

the power of one another. Prana Veda has a broad diversity of free radicals scavenging compounds such as phenols, flavonoids, vitamins and carotenoids, which may hold the capability to hunt the free radicals in the human body. The network works as a team. Although these members of the network all work together, each has its distinct function. Because each cell in your body has a fatbased membrane (outer shell) and a waterbased nucleus (center), it needs different antioxidants in different areas. Fat-soluble vitamin E and coenzyme Q-10 protect the fatty cell membrane and the mitochondria, while water-based vitamin C and glutathione protect the cell interior. Prana Veda contains a blend of cascading antioxidants that are naturally rich in Super Oxide Dismutase ( SOD) obtained from non-GMO proprietary blend of plant-based bioactives that also contains secondary antioxidants such as glutathione, carotenoids, Co-enzyme Q10 and vitamins C & E. Glutathione works to regulate, recycle, and repair other antioxidants within your body. Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen, meaning that it can help your body manage stress. It can boost brain function, lower blood sugar and cortisol levels, and help fight symptoms of anxiety and depression. Please see our website for the complete list of ingredients. 2. Ability to deliver higher concentration of antioxidants per ﬂuid oz or serving. Efficient absorption rate, the superior absorption properties of Prana Veda, allows a significant portion to enter the

bloodstream and have a systemic supportive effect on the body’s immune response pathways. The results allow for substantially higher bioavailability and increased intracellular activity. Key Benefits of Prana Veda 1. Supports a healthy immune system 2. Strengthens the body's natural immune system 3. Clinically-tested ingredients deliver sustained immune support 4. Supports natural immunity during and after exercise 5. Boosts the body’s endogenous primary antioxidant defenses 6. Unique mechanism (synergy) provides long-lasting antioxidant protection. 7. Promotes a sense of well-being Two Additional Immune-Boosting Supplements We suggest that you also supplement with our Perio Veda supplement, which is a cleansing dental rinse that is mineralizing and fortifying. Oral health is vital. There are more bacteria in your mouth than all the people on planet Earth. Some of these bacteria around teeth may cause gum disease, are extremely protective and hard to shift. Perio Veda works synergistically, helping directly to enhance essential minerals in bioavailable forms for cell ready absorption and indirectly to promote remineralization of enamel. This decreases the bacteria and bacterial function, creating a holistic environment of healthy microflora for optimal oral health. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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And GURUJI’S GRACE™is recommended for ayurvedic wellness and telomere health, for rejuvenation of stem cells at the cellular level* Using a nutritional approach to telomere health and longevity, telomerase production, and adult stem cell rejuvenation are what sets Guruji’s Grace™ apart from other supplements on the market today. This unique, plant-based elixir holds the keys to unlock the secrets to graceful aging*. Guruji’s Grace™ is leading the way to graceful aging! The only supplement on the market today that addresses the foundational causes of our ability to age gracefully, live longer and retain our youthful countenance…from the inside out! Father and son founders, Nirmal Yogi and Adrian Patel-Delaloye, created the Nariveda line of liquid plant-based elixirs. Nirmal Yogi developed and formulated Nariveda’s powerful Elixirs leveraging his 40+ years of experience as an organic chemist and a devout practitioner of Ayurveda. Adrian’s background is in high-tech, fast-growth startups. When his father approached him to be involved in the world’s first liquidbased Ayurvedic nutraceutical company, he quickly signed up. He spearheads brand development, growth, and other quality assurance tests all of Nariveda’s elixirs. NN CUSTOMERS ASK FOR A 15% DISCOUNT AND FREE SHIPPING WITH CODE HAPPY15. TO ORDER VISIT WWW. NARIVEDA.COM OR CALL 928.554.4737. See ad on page 20.

Maintaining a Healthy Liver the Natural Way By Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition® "The liver is a very special organ: even if more than fifty percent of its overall mass is damaged...it can regenerate itself completely. This amazing ability is essential. The liver is the body's most important metabolic organ..." ~ “Understanding the Mechanisms of Liver Regeneration Through Computer Simulation,” Science News, Science Daily (June 9, 2010) "Most people think liver disease is caused by excess alcohol or hepatitis viruses. The reality is that the leading cause of liver disease today is excess weight. This form of liver degeneration associated with obesity and high blood sugar is called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)...With no approved pharmacological treatments, lifestyle and dietary therapies remain the only hope for stemming the tide of NAFLD... Physicians rarely focus on liver health except in advanced cases. ~ “The Silent Epidemic of Liver Disease,” lifeextension.com/magazine (April 2015)

ost people don’t give much thought to the health of their liver unless they drink alcohol excessively. Even then, they tend not to attend to it until they have symptoms and learn from blood tests that their liver enzymes are high, an indication of inflammation or injury. This article aims to increase your awareness of the critical

importance of liver function in order to help you prevent liver disease. Once you have disease symptoms, such as jaundice, abdominal pain and swelling, leg and ankle swelling, dark urine color, itchy skin, nausea/loss of appetite, chronic fatigue, or easy bruising, damage reversal may prove extremely challenging.

In Phase II detoxification, through six different pathways, a process called conjugation either neutralizes toxins or renders it easier for the body to excrete them in urine or bile. Absence of the nutrients and energy required for proper functioning of these enzymatic processes results in dangerous toxic buildup.

The Role of the Liver & How It Works

A properly functioning liver is especially crucial to cancer prevention. Failure of the body to remove environmental carcinogens, with deficiencies of nutrients needed for proper detoxification and immunity, is thought to cause up to 90% of all cancers. In addition to the symptoms noted above, liver malfunction can also cause weight loss, disorientation, spleen enlargement, and kidney failure.

The liver has three key functions. First, it assures the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Second, it stores glycogen, which the body uses for energy, and vitamins A, B12, D, E, and K. Third, the liver is one of the main excretory organs that ensure ongoing removal of the body’s waste and toxins. The liver detoxifies by: (1) filtering blood, (2) producing and secreting bile, a critical element of fat digestion and fat-soluble vitamin absorption that also carries toxins to the intestines for excretion in fiber, and (3) neutralizing harmful chemicals through a two-phase enzymatic process. In Phase I detoxification, enzymes either neutralize various unwanted chemicals, or convert them to intermediate forms that are then processed by Phase II enzymes. Genetics, level of exposure, and nutritional status determine the activity of the group of enzymes called cytochrome P450, which detoxify most hazardous chemicals. Phase I enzymes typically neutralize many prescription and OTC drugs, caffeine, histamine, hormones, and pesticides.

Types of Liver Disease Unlike acute liver failure, chronic liver disease can develop slowly over time without causing any symptoms. Threats to overall liver function include toxins in food and the environment, several viruses and general immune system malfunction, genetic abnormalities, and drug overuse/ combination, and weight gain. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the world’s most common form, is generally associated with various other liver-compromising chronic conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes/insulin resistance, dyslipidemia (excess blood levels of triglycerides, cholesterol and/or fat phospholipids), and metabolic syndrome. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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The inflammation and oxidative stress from these conditions can cause excess accumulation of fat in the liver. Certain medications can also cause NAFLD, including corticosteroids, Methotrexate, Tamoxifen, and Tetracycline. NAFLD can progress to NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or liver inflammation), liver fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis (cell degeneration, inflammation, and fibrous thickening of tissue; typically results from alcoholism or hepatitis), liver cancer, and liver failure/premature death. Even worse, NAFLD is the precursor to many chronic diseases, including heart disease, dementia, autoimmune disorders, hypothyroidism, and sleep and skin problems. In most cases of NAFLD, improved insulin sensitivity is the main goal, and weight loss is its most effective treatment. The balance of this article primarily addresses measures that promote the flow of fat and bile to and from the liver, which can benefit all NAFLD patients, whether or not overweight. A Liver-Supportive Diet & Lifestyle Due to the connection of NAFLD to inflammation, oxidative stress, and obesity, it can be highly responsive to diet and lifestyle changes. Dietary changes generally include: (1) eliminating highglycemic/high-sugar (refined carbohydrates) and high-salt foods; (2) adopting an organic, low-iron (absent anemia), plant-based, high fiber diet focused on high-sulfur foods (garlic, onions, whey protein, and eggs) and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, beet greens, cabbage); (3) consuming healthy fats (omega 3; monounsaturated); (4) drinking at least eight, 8-oz glasses of non-city/filtered/high pH water, up to onehalf of one’s body weight in water daily; and (5) avoiding pro-inflammatory foods such as dairy, gluten, excess alcohol, and processed meats. Lifestyle considerations to support a fatty liver include reducing exposure to food additives/colors, heavy metals, and pesticides and other airborne toxins, exercising 20-30 minutes per day, and daily detoxing (organic lemon and water; green and other detox teas).

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Some Important Liver-Supportive Dietary Supplements Given that no medication exists to treat or cure liver disease adequately, and the liver’s enormous capacity to regenerate, it makes sense to consider dietary supplements that are proven to promote ongoing liver health. Scientific studies support the use of the nutrients below,

among others, to increase the liver’s capacity to function effectively and detoxify. 1. Amino Acids: Aging decreases the sulfur-containing, liver detoxifying amino acids L-cysteine and L-methionine. Their levels greatly dictate how much the body produces free radical-fighting cellular glutathione, considered the “master antioxidant.” Research has established that N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) supplementation reduces heavy metal and drug toxicity and can improve liver function in NAFLD patients. L-carnitine is an essential nutrient that converts fat to energy in the liver’s powerhouses, and thus is critical to their function. Deficiencies can increase susceptibility to NAFLD, and studies have established that L-carnitine supplementation improves liver damage. SAM-e (S-adenosyl methionine), crucial to the methylation pathway in Phase II detoxification, is made in the body from L-methionine and vitamin B12, folic acid, and choline. SAM-e deficiency is associated with impaired detoxification and can exacerbate liver injury. Supplementation with SAMe at the correct dosage has been shown to support liver function, but may have only limited value in treating certain chronic liver diseases. 2. Dandelion: Various holistic practitioners recommend the leaves and root extract of this herb for liver, gallbladder, and bile duct conditions, due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, anti-lipidemic, and anti-fibrotic properties. Dandelion’s use has been shown to lower AST and ALT, marker enzymes of liver toxicity. Those allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies, should avoid consuming it. 3. Green Tea Extract (GTE): This nutrient is widely viewed as beneficial in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. In one 2016 randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, 90-day study of 80 NAFLD patients, researchers concluded that 500mg/day of GTE lowered AST and ALT liver enzymes, such that GTE can generally be considered a valid treatment to improve serum levels of liver enzymes in NAFLD patients. 4. Milk Thistle/Silymarin. As milk thistles’ main flavonoid antioxidant, silymarin (with silybin, one of its three active components) protects the liver both by preventing depletion of its glutathione levels, and enhancing its detoxification capacity by reducing the oxidative stress resulting from toxin metabolism. For over two decades, Michael Dworkin, PD, CCN,

the founder of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe, regularly prescribed this herb in his clinical practice for various liver conditions. Though controversial, according to Michael Murray, ND, human studies have proven milk thistle’s effectiveness against NAFLD, alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis C, liver cirrhosis, and cancer.

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Healthy lifestyle choices, including a healthy diet, with the proper combination and dosages of dietary supplements, can greatly promote optimal liver health. Ideally, a practitioner should be consulted before using these methods to address any acute or chronic health condition. See this full article online at naturalnutmeg. com. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, are for educational purposes only, and are not intended to take the place of a physician’s advice. Submitted by Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®, Owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe (860.646.8178), 378 Middle Turnpike West, Manchester, CT, www.cthealthshop.com), nutrition specialists trusted since 1956. Erika is available to speak to groups. All statements in this article are practice- or scientific evidencebased and references are available upon request. See ad on page 3.

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Keto: Good For Diabetes & Prediabetes? By Ryan Attar, ND

’ve been a type 1 diabetic for 13 years. After I was diagnosed, every endocrinologist and diabetes educator I met with told me to eat a diet high in grains, fruit, and starch. I was told this is the healthiest diet for diabetics. So I did this. What happened? I watched my blood sugars go on a roller coaster ride, spiking high then dropping low. After meals I would go up to 150-200mg/dL or higher. My A1c was around 7.0%. I counted carbs like they asked me to do, properly dosed my medications, but never ended up with normal blood sugars like a non-diabetic. When I asked my doctors about this, they told me what I experiencing was normal, and I was doing great. The Keto Diet for Diabetes I began researching diabetes and nutrition and quickly learned that healthy, insulin sensitive, non-diabetic people have

average blood sugars in the 80s, and A1cs around 5.0% or lower. Shouldn’t my goal be the same? I experimented with several diets, but I found that only one normalized my blood sugars, a low carbohydrate, ketogenic diet. Instead of spikes up into triple digits, I had blood sugar graphs that were basically a flat line in the 80s and 90s. I again went to my doctors and asked about this. I was thinking they would be happy to see such amazing results. Instead I was told, “Eating this way won’t do you any good, and the elevated blood sugars you had before aren’t going to harm you”. Carbohydrates and sugar raise blood glucose, why should diabetics eat a diet with mostly these foods? This didn't make sense to me so I started my master’s degree in nutrition followed by my doctorate in naturopathic medicine. As I continued to educate myself I found that my physicians couldn't have been more wrong!

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The high blood sugars I had in the past were damaging every cell and organ in my body. Eating a diet with high amounts of carbohydrate makes normalizing blood sugars a near impossibility. Studies show beta cells (the cells that make insulin) begin to burn out and die when blood sugars get to about 140mg/ dL – 155mg/dL. Those with fasting blood sugars even as low as 110mg/dL (like many prediabetics and some undiagnosed) already have signs of beta cells destruction. This is what eventually will make a T2 diabetic insulin dependent. Eyes and retinas are a common complication in diabetes. Research has shown that retina disease begins occurring even at pre-diabetes levels (5.7%-6.4% A1c). This leads to impaired vision and even blindness. Diabetics are at an increased risk for cancer. It may be surprising to hear that risk of cancer increases even at “high normal” levels. Meaning if you have blood sugars within the standard range, but at the high end, you are at a higher risk for all cancer. This same pattern of mildly elevated blood sugars and organ/cell damage continues through other systems in the body, like the kidneys, heart, nerves, and others. Those on the keto diet with normal blood sugars also improve their cholesterol and lipids, especially HDL and triglycerides, which are the biggest predictors of heart disease. The keto diet done right allows for blood sugars to stay in a very stable range around 80-90mg/dL. No other diet seems to be as effective.

How Do You Do Keto Right? You can do the keto diet the right way by focusing on whole foods (avoid keto bars, shakes, or packaged snacks) with meals centered around a healthy protein source plus non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens and other fibrous veggies. Many people incorrectly do keto by doing a “low carb, high fat” keto diet, or LCHF, with the goal to ramp up blood ketones. Blood ketones are fine and healthy in individuals eating a protein focused keto diet, like I recommend. The body will make ketones as it needs. However, eating high fat to keep ketones constantly elevated offers little benefit (unless you are using the diet for something like Epilepsy), and people tend to overeat calories this way. LCHF keto also limits protein, which is not healthy. Eating meals like this are delicious and incredibly healthy. For 10 years I have been eating this way, and my a1cs are consistently under 5.0%, the last one being 4.8%. I get the same results with my patients. Maintaining blood sugars in this range ensures all the complications of diabetes are avoided. For those with diabetic complications already, getting blood sugars down to this level allows organs and cells to heal from things like retinopathy, neuropathy, gastroparesis, and others. The science has caught up to what many of us have known for years: A keto diet is a great way to achieving normal blood sugars and optimal health. Dr. Ryan Attar is a naturopathic physician and nutritionist practicing at Connecticut Integrative Medical Center in Fairfield. Dr. Attar has been living and thriving with Type 1 diabetes for 13 years. He helps his patients thrive as well, despite ANY diagnosis. www.DrAttar.com, dr.ryan.attar@gmail.com, 203.717.1339

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HAPPENINGS

April 2020

Friday, April 3rd Introduction to Mandalas. 7–9pm. $45. Explore and experience the dynamics and power of the mandala. Learn the symbolism that is encoded in the mandala on the intellectual, physical, emotional and spiritual levels. Gain an understanding of the meanings of the colors, shapes and placement of objects you use to create your mandala. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, April 4th

Due to the unique situation concerning COVID19, we cannot guarantee that the events listed have not been cancelled or rescheduled. Please contact venues for more information, and please support these small businesses in any way possible at this uncertain time.

Wednesday, April 8th Healing in Harmony Night. 5–7pm. FREE. Participants will sit individually with a healer and receive a 10 – 12-minute healing. No reservation required. You will be served in the order in which you enter the Center. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

“Get on the Ball!” Roll out stress, roll in ease with Yamuna® Body Rolling. 9–11am. $40 - must register in advance. Take this fun and informative workshop to heal your body and learn how to keep it in good shape by combining wellness and injury prevention in a single, simple workout. Balls available for purchase after the workshop. Taught by Sharon Sklar, Certified YBR Practitioner, Certified Advanced Rolfer since 1981. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 28 Main Street, East Hartford (on the Glastonbury line). www.sacredriversyoga.com 860.657.9545

Saturday, April 11th

Sunday, April 5th

Second Saturdays with Caroline. 7:45–8:15am. Free. Interested in easy access to a financial services professional, a few thoughts from her on personal finances, and an opportunity to ask questions and engage in conversation about topics that are on your mind? Join Caroline Wetzel, CFP for Second Saturdays with Caroline! Topics change each month. Panera Bread 1860 Post Road East Westport. For more info, visit secondsaturdayscarolinewetzelcfp.eventbrite.com/

Women’s Empowerment Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 10am–Noon. $25. We invite in our angels and guides to help us release those things that keep us stuck. The energy of the group helps us to release those things that no longer serve our highest good and allow us to live an empowered life. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com. Monthly Trance Group with Priscilla Bengtson. 6:30–8pm. $25 per session. This is a safe environment for you to explore how far you are willing to allow spirits to work with you. We'll be working with trance channeling (allowing control energies to use your mechanics) and trance healing during each session. The more you attend, the stronger your connection to Spirit will be. Class meets April 5, May 3, June 14. Check with instructor for pre-requisites. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Monday, April 6th Walk This Way with Priscilla Bengtson. 6:30-8pm. $35. When you take walking to a higher level for fitness, there are certain subtleties that can help you become more efficient at calorie burning and muscle use. During this workshop, you will learn three levels of walking skills, breathing techniques, proper posture and foot alignment. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Psychic Saturday. 10am–4pm. $25 for a 20-minute reading/$50.00 for a 40-minute reading. Receive a private reading to connect you to guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Prescheduling is highly recommended. Local craft vendors are also available all day. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury.To pre-schedule an appointment, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, April 12th Qi & Tea Monthly Gathering. 10am–Noon. $22 (Including workshop, tea and snack). This Qi & Tea monthly gathering is open to all! Qigong is much more beneficial when practice in groups. My mission is to create a community for Qigong practice and give people an opportunity to learn and share life stories. Please come join us, be open and playful, sharing our qigong experience while tasting authentic Chinese tea. Also 5/10, 6/14, 7/12, no August, 9/13, 10/18, 11/15, 12/6. To sign up please contact Lorelei Chang at dancenlight@gmail.com dancenlight.org/qigong

Friday, April 17th Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki and Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Dan Lupacchino. 7–8:15pm. $35. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Dan will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, April 7th

Saturday, April 18th

Full Moon Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki and Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Christine Cartwright. 7– 8:15pm. $35. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Christine will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Integrated Energy Therapy (IET)® Intermediate Level with Dan Lupacchino and Christine Cartwright. 9:30am– 6pm. $230. Attune to the energy ray that activates the 3rd and 4th DNA pairs and will empower you to pull energy imprints out of the human energy field. Learn to clear energy imprints from past life karma and methods to esoterically dowse and interpret the blockages. Fully illustrated training guide and certificate provided. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

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Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg--April April2020 2020

Spiritual Counselor Certificate Program: Foundations with Priscilla Bengtson. Also 4/19. 9:30am–6pm. both days. $375.00 (financial assistance and payment plan available). This course is designed for people who are being called to service and ministry. Participants will learn how to assist people in moving past sticking points in their lives and help them view life from a higher, spiritual perspective. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit psyche-institute.com.

Sunday, April 19th Expressions of Faith Spiritual Service with Rev. Karen Ellis. 9:30–10:30am. Love donations accepted. Rev. Karen will offer an inspirational talk, along with delivery of messages from the other side. If you are seeking a new expression of your faith, join us. Join in at 10:30 a.m. for a hands-on Healing Service. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, April 21st Mediumship Mentorship with Priscilla Bengtson. 7–8:30pm. $35. You’ve taken the classes and you still don’t feel confident in your Mediumship readings. These sessions are designed to help you gain confidence in your readings, enhance your Mediumship training and receive personal feedback from an experienced Medium and Teacher. Check with instructor for pre-requisites. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, April 22nd Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 10–11:15am. $25.0 The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Find your inner calm and walk away feeling refreshed and renewed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com. Mary Magdalene & the Cosmic Christ with Dan Lupacchino. 7–8:15pm. $25. Explore the historical and spiritual significance of Mary Magdalene and discover her role in the development of Christianity. Dive deep in meditation with the aid of a very powerful essential oil to connect to this powerful Ascended Masters energy, Christ consciousness and the freedom and insight of the Magdalene Principle. This is a scented Workshop. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, April 25th Reiki II with Christine Cartwright. 9am–5pm. $160. Receive attunements to higher frequencies of universal energy and enhance your healing work. Learn how to do distance healing, as well as heal mental, emotional and past life issues. Participants receive a manual and certificate. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

“Get on the Ball!” Roll out stress, roll in ease with Yamuna® Body Rolling. 1–3pm. $40 - must register in advance. Take this fun and informative workshop to heal your body and learn how to keep it in good shape by combining wellness and injury prevention in a single, simple workout. Balls available for purchase after the workshop. Taught by Sharon Sklar, Certified YBR Practitioner, Certified Advanced Rolfer since 1981. Yoga From The Heart, 21 Brace Road, West Hartford. www.yogafromtheheart.com 860.216.6473

Tuesday, April 28th Working in Trance for Channeling and Healing with Priscilla Bengtson. 6:30–9pm. $50. This is an intermediate/advanced class for those ready to develop their Mediumship and Healing at a higher level. We will safely explore working in a deeper state for Mental Mediumship, Trance Control Mediumship and Trance Healing. Working at your own level of comfort in the process of Spirit connection, you will learn two simple techniques to bring yourself into a trance state. We will have hands on time to explore your skills as a Trance Channel as well as receive Trance Healing from a partner. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com

Wednesday, April 29th Home Message Circle with Priscilla Bengtson. 7–8:30pm. $20. The session is open to anyone who wishes to practice their mediumship message delivery in a group. A group facilitator will help you stay on track with your message if needed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, May 2nd Woodbury Earth Day Festival presented by Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition. 11am–4pm. Free. Largest Earth Day celebration in Connecticut! Woodbury Earth Day is a fun, familyfriendly event featuring live music, food trucks, activities, an artisan market, a kids’ activities tent, exhibits, raffles and giveaways on household sustainability, environmental conservation, holistic wellness, and so much more! FREE shuttle parking offsite /On-site parking $5.00. Hollow Park, 43 Hollow Road, Woodbury. 203.263.0076 / earthday@pomperaug.org. www.woodburyearthday.org Emotional Self-Care Retreat. 9am–3pm. $115; two or more are $95. We all have negative self-talk once in a while, but do you ever say things to yourself that you would never say to another person? Turn your habit around by learning positive self-talk. Care for yourself and your emotions in a more beneficial and effective way, while relaxing and rejuvenating on tranquil Enders Island. Lunch included. You may drive to the Island, where there is free parking. Reserved seating is required: http://bit.ly/ESCR_2005 Ender’s Island, 1 Enders Island, Mystic. Paige Dest, paige@BYODestiny.com, 860.550.1844

Saturday, May 9th Second Saturdays with Caroline. 7:45–8:15am. Free. Interested in easy access to a financial services professional, a few thoughts from her on personal finances, and an opportunity to ask questions and engage in conversation about topics that are on your mind? Join Caroline Wetzel, CFP for Second Saturdays with Caroline! Topics change each month. Panera Bread 1860 Post Road East Westport. For more info, visit secondsaturdayscarolinewetzelcfp. eventbrite.com/

Saturday, May 16th UPLIFT: Informing, Educating, and Empowering mothers on self-health and care in CT. 10:30am– 1:30pm. Join us for a FREE reception to learn about highly recommended pelvic health, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and other wellness options. Guests will enjoy exercise classes, mini massages, relaxation workshops, info sessions, local refreshments, browse pop-up shops, take-home gift bags, and enter to win one of our themed gift baskets from our partners including Glo Face &amp; Body Skincare. Durant Physical Therapy & Centered Body Pilates, 2928 Main St. 2nd Fl., Glastonbury. Visit our event page at facebook.com/durantphysicaltherapy/

ONGOING Wednesdays Wu Qin Xi-Five Animals Frolic. 7:30-8:45pm. $75 per month. Students will have an opportunity to study different styles of Qigong form to enhance good health and prevent illness. The class includes medical Qigong, Qigong for women, and Qigong for everyday issues such as back pain, stress, insomnia, etc. Each form will be taught in five to ten weeks depending on the length of the form. We are currently learning one of the most popular Qigong forms — Five Animals Frolic. All levels are welcome. To sign up please contact Lorelei Chang at dancenlight@gmail.com dancenlight.org/qigong

Thursdays Intelligent Qigong ongoing classes ($75 per month) 9:30-10:45am. This class's prerequisite is Intelligent Qigong level 1. Class consists of the history of Intelligent Qigong, Qigong theory, qigong warm up and exercises and Intelligent Qigong level 2 form. Students continue to study “lifting qi and pouring qi down method while learning Intelligent Qigong Level 2, Xing Shen Zhuang, Physical and Spiritual Stance Method. Connecticut Concert Ballet 280 Garden Grove Road, Manchester. Lorelei Chang 860.558.6146 dancenlight@gmail.com Qigong for Everyday Living (Starting April 9th). 10:45am-Noon. $75 per month. Qigong is an ancient Chinese healing art to enhance health and prevent illness. This class helps you understand how to connect your internal Qi to nature’s energy to support your overall health; how to build up your Qi field to protect you from getting sick. You will learn Intelligent Qigong level one, “Lift Qi up and pour Qi down” method, as well as some simple routines for your daily qigong practice. All levels are welcome. To sign up please contact Lorelei Chang at dancenlight@gmail.com dancenlight.org/qigong

CLASSIFIED Looking For: Health & Wellness Independent Contractors Office space available in Retail/Office complex in Kensington, CT. Individual space or larger. Flexible terms, no long term commitment. Call 860.505.7278 for details.

Wholistic Fitness & Healing Center

A Way to Move from Surviving to Thriving Classes • Customized movement courses • Self Defense, Tai Chi & Yoga Services • Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine • Therapeutic & Thai Massage • Reiki sessions & training courses Products • Earth friendly cleaning supplies • Natural beauty care • Herbal teas and nutrients • Natural fabric apparel

Natural Nutmeg Readers Receive 20% Oﬀ Your First Session!

Call 860.655.6564 509 Farmington Ave Hartford CT, 06105 nourishingninja@gmail.com @mysticofmovement

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IMAGINE FLOAT is Greater Hartford's only boutique float and wellness center offering floatation therapy, cryotherapy, infrared sauna and compression therapy. All services provide non-invasive therapies to heal your body, mind and soul. Relax, refresh and renew at IMAGINE FLOAT.

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I M AG I N E F LOAT.C O M www.NaturalNutmeg.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com 39 39

Community Resources ACUPUNCTURE Collaborative Natural Health Partners Nick Edgerton, ND, LAc & Diana Zitserman, ND, LAc 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com See ad on page 20.

HEALTH FOOD STORES Parkade Health Shoppe Manchester Parkade, 378 West Middle Tpke, Manchester, CT • 860.646.8178 M-Sat 8am-9pm • Sun 9am-6pm See ad on page 3.

Dr. Steven F Hinchey, DMD South Glastonbury 860.633.6518 • drhinch@agd.org dochincheydmd.com Thank you to our wonderful patients who trusted our team to care for their improved oral health. Please let your family and friends know that a healthy disease-free mouth will help your overall health – it is all connected – the mouth and the body. And we can help you get there. See ad on page 35.

HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY

Dana Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® Managing Partner, TrinityPoint Wealth 612 Wheelers Farms Rd.Milford, CT 06461 Office: 203.693.8521 | Fax: 203.693.8524 dana@trinitypointwealth.com See ad on page 43. Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, AWMA® Procyon Private Wealth Partners, LLC 1 Corporate Drive Suite 225 Shelton, CT 06484 475.232.2713 • cwetzel@procyonpartners.net www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-wetzel/ www.procyonpartners.net See ad on page 27.

David London, MD 544 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880 Ph: 203.557.6574 Fax: 860.973.1655 567 Vauxhall St. Ext, #218, Waterford, CT 06385 Ph: 860.443.5822 Fax: 860.444.0581 davidlondonmd.com Allison B. Spitzer, MA Trumbull, CT • 203.218.2200 spitzerhealth.com Therapeutic Coaching and Counseling for children, adults, families, and individuals. Traditional, alternative and creative healing modalities in a cozy, judgement free zone. Practical solutions for stress, anxiety, parenting, depression, and emotional challenges. Change worry into action. Short-term, solution-focused, holistic and hopeful. Comfortable for first timers and those in therapy before.

HOLISTIC CENTERS

HYPNOSIS

Bridge Healing Arts Center 304 Main Street, Farmington, CT 06032 860.404.2578 • BridgeHAC@aol.com www.BridgeHAC.com.

Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir. 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. 203.595.0110 • mindbodytransformation.com See ad on page 24. Joann Dunsing Hypnosis 204 Cherry Street, Milford CT 06460 203.907.7710 • joanndunsing.com I am passionate about enabling you to get the changes you want! This is accomplished by empowering you through the skillful use of NLP Neuro-linguistic programming, EFT Emotional Freedom Techniques also known as Meridian Tapping and the relaxed focused state of Hypnosis. Mind Matters Hypnosis Center Calypso Portugaels, CCH Guilford and West Hartford, CT 860.693.6448 info@mindmattershypnosis.com www.mindmattershypnosis.com Mind Matters Hypnosis Center has been serving the community for almost 20 years. We have conducted over 40,000 successful sessions (children and adults) on every issue from weight release and smoking cessation to complex cases involving disease and addictions. Call for free consultation today. Offering remote sessions worldwide. Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH 267 William Street, Middletown, CT 06457 860.704.9054 • mprousseau@sbcglobal.net www.micheleprousseau.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING

HOLISTIC COUNSELING James Osborne, MS, LPC, BCPC ProNatural Physicians Group, LLC Berlin, CT • 860.829.0707 pronaturalphysicians.com James Osborne is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Professional Counselor, Board Certified PTSD Clinician and a Fellow in the American Psychotherapy Association with over 40 years of clinical experience. I am honored and grateful to receive this recognition for a second year. I thank all who have shared their lives and stories with me. See ad on page 28.

HOLISTIC DENTIST Dr. Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT Fairfield, CT • 203.371.0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com A recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry, Dr. Breiner treats patients for a myriad of dental concerns including Sleep Breathing Disorders, TMD, Mercury Toxicity, hidden Infections from Cavitations and Root Canals. “If you have unexplained symptoms that won’t go away, the answer could be in your mouth.” See ad on page 33.

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Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg--April April2020 2020

INTEGRATED MEDICINE Collaborative Natural Health Partners Kate Zachau, DO, Julia Vitali, DO, Brad Brooks, DO, Amy Smith-Bassett, nurse practioner 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com See ad on page 20. ProNatural Physicians Group 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 860.829.0707 • www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 33. Sophia Natural Health Center 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield, CT 06804. 203.740.9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com Tamara Sachs, MD Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt Street, New Milford CT 860.354.3304 • tsachsmd.com Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illness by uncovering and correcting the underlying root causes of your health concerns, while remaining respectful of the uniqueness and complexity that make us human. She comprehensively and thoughtfully creates personalized plans explaining why and how each area of your healing will be addressed. See ad on page 30.

LIFE/BUSINESS/HEALTH/ ORGANIZATIONAL COACH Dr. Sonia Manganello, DM, DD, CNC Glastonbury, CT • 860.966.8747 soniamanganello.com Sonia is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Life, and Spiritual Coach, as well as a 4th generation clairvoyant/ medium/healer. She is the author of the Amazon Best Seller, The Perseverance Diet: 12 Steps to Mind Body Nutrition, teacher, successful entrepreneur, and motivational speaker. See ad on page 9

MENOPAUSE Tatiana Fleischman, MD Menopause Specialist, BHRT Stamford, CT • 203.275.6666 CTHormoneTherapy.com Get relief for fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, memory loss, low libido and other symptoms of menopause. Board Certified Medical Doctor, 25 years of clinical experience. Specializing in Bioidentical Hormone Therapy and Anti-Aging Medicine. Holistic approach, natural safe treatments. Helping women restore hormonal balance and feel their best. Free phone consultation.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE Dr. Adam Breiner, ND Fairfield, CT • 203.371.8258 WholeBodyMed.com Focusing on brain health and Lyme Disease, Dr. Adam Breiner offers cutting-edge therapies that include Hyperbaric Oxygen, Neurocognitive Therapies including sophisticated brain-imaging equipment to evaluate brain injuries and brainwave patterns associated with Metabolic Imbalances, Infections, and Allergies. Conditions treated

include Concussions, TBI’s, Stroke, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and more. See ad on page 22. Collaborative Natural Health Partners Dr. Lauren Young, Dr. Ashley Burkman, Dr. Tonya Pasternak, Dr Craig Fasullo, Dr. Carolina Padilla, ND, Dr. Carissa Fioritto, ND 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com Other locations: 107 Wilcox Road, Ste 103, Stonington, CT 06378 74 Park Road, West Hartford, CT 06119 See ad on page 20. Jill Kenney, ND Integrative Medicine and Support Services Park Avenue Medical Center 5520 Park Avenue, Trumbull, CT 06611 61 Sherman Street, Fairfield, CT 06825 203.418.7657 • www.drjillkenney.com 781.507.1319 • drkenney360@gmail.com See ad on page 29. Naturopathic & Acupuncture Health Center Dr. Marie Mammone, Dr. Renee Mammone, NDs John Mammone, Licensed Acupuncturist 274 Silas Deane Hwy., Wethersfield, CT 06109 860.529.1200 • www.NAHcenter.com New England Naturopathic Medical Center, LLC Lesa Werner, ND 860.308.1635 • www.drlesawerner.com See ad on page 12. The Wellness Institute Marvin Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT • 203.847.2788 See ad on page 18. West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine Frank Aieta, ND 301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT 860.232.9662 • www.DRAIETA.com See ad on page 19. ProNatural Physicians Group Dr. Ann Aresco, Dr. Cora Stover, & Dr. Martin Opoku 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 P: 860.829.0707 • F: 860.829.0606 ProNaturalPhysicians@comcast.net www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 33.

NUTRITION Holcare Nutrition Vicki Kobliner MS RD 3 Hollyhock Lane, Suite 2A, Wilton, CT 06897 203.834.9949 • www.holcarenutrition.com See ad on page 20. Grant’s Nutrition and Wellness Jane Grant, RD CD-N 37 Webster Square Road, Berlin, CT 860.357.2282 grantj@grantsnutrition.com Jane Grant is trained in integrative and functional nutrition utilizing a personalized, holistic approach to chronic disease and weight management. Integrative and functional nutrition combines the very best of modern science, clinical wisdom, and integrative therapies to address the root cause of disease and promote abundant health. Call or e-mail to schedule an appointment. Most insurance is accepted.

PHYSICIANS, M.D. Natural Health & Healing, LLC Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 41 N. Main St, Ste 207, West Hartford, CT 860.677.4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net See ad on back cover. Optimal Health Medical, LLC Henry C. Sobo, M.D. 111 High Ridge Rd. ,Stamford, CT 06905 203.348.8805 • www.drsobo.com See ad on page 33.

ROLFING® Rolfing®- The Art and Science of Body Change Sharon Sklar, BFA, MsT, Cert. Adv. Rolfer West Hartford • 860.561.4337 sharonsklarrolfing.com Rolfing®-The Art and Science of Body Change. A dynamic 10 session bodywork series that eases pain, improves movement and restructures your body when you feel "out of whack". A hands-on and educational approach which establishes order and balance after life's injuries, stress and accidents. Since 1981. See ad on page 18.

SCHOOLS The Graduate Institute 171 Amity Rd, Bethany, CT 06524 203.874.4252 • info@learn.edu See ad on page 28.

SKINCARE/ NATURAL BEAUTY Immortal Opulence Old Wethersfield, CT 860.712.1933 ImmortalOpulence.com Richard Fanelli, Founder/formulator of Immortal Opulence Anti-aging Skin Cream. Coming from a family of European MDs, Richard was inspired to create this high-performance, anti-aging skin cream. Over 27 powerful ingredients of organic, wild grown botanicals from remote areas around the world. No chemicals ever. Hand crafted in small batches to assure impeccable quality. See ads on page 20 and 36. ORGÁNACHS Farm To Skin Westport, CT • 203.221.0435 info@organachsfarmtoskin.com organachsfarmtoskin.com CT’s premier natural beauty boutique offering clean, safe skincare and makeup. Our mission is to educate our customers on the benefits of using highperforming organic skincare. We offer a curated selection of the top brands in organic beauty. In-store organic facials from luxury Irish skincare brand VOYA and makeup application services available by appointment.

SPAS/WELLNESS CENTERS Body + Sole Spa Therapies West Hartford 860.233.7226 • bodysolespa.com Body + Sole is a skincare and bodywork collective comprised of passionate professionals who love what we do. We continuously research treatments and trends to offer the latest innovations in the beauty industry. We test every product and practice every treatment so you feel confident in us and yourself. Imagine Float 290 West Main St., Avon 860.255.7771 • imaginefloat.com See ad on page 28.

SPIRITUAL COMPANIONSHIP Lauri Ingram Hamden, Connecticut • 203.435.5650 www.lauriingram.com Services available in person, and via zoom/skype. Lauri Ingram is an ordained interfaith/interspritual minister, offering spiritual counseling, Crystal Dreaming, Crystal Light and Color Therapy along with workshops and ministerial officiant services.

YOGA/PILATES/ BARRE STUDIO

Alan Franzi, MS, C-IAYT, PAS Creative Edge Yoga, LLC Guilford, CT • 203.488.1700 www.creativeedgeyoga.com Alan Franzi, MS, C-IAYT, PAS has over 25 years experience as a Yoga and Movement Therapy practitioner. In addition to teaching group classes, Alan’s specialized individual therapeutic work centers on Posture Alignment Therapy and Movement Re-patterning to address the root causes of musculoskeletal pain, imbalances and other movement challenges. Sacred Rivers Yoga East Hartford, CT • 860.657.9545 sacredriversyoga.com Paula Scopino, E-RYT 500 hour, C-IAYT, CT Licensed LMT, YACEP is the Owner/Director of Sacred Rivers Yoga and Allied Health Therapies and ‘Sacred Rivers Yoga for Every Body’, a Yoga Alliance 200 and 500 Hour Registered School, as well as a member of IAYT (International Association of Yoga Therapy.) See ad on page 10.

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What’s In It For Me? Do I Really Need a Master’s Degree? By Dr. Sandi Coyne-Gilbert, MBA DM MS Organizational Leadership Program Director, Goodwin University

s the director of a graduate degree program in leadership, I am often surprised by the number of people I meet who can’t imagine why someone would get a master’s degree at this time. They cite the uncertain economic environment or mention how even their bosses don’t have a master’s degree. I assume a neutral facial expression to not look shocked at their statements, but inside I’m thinking: why not get a master’s degree?! Here are six remarkable reasons to earn your graduate degree. 1. Expand your specialized skill set. Earning your bachelor’s degree proves that you are up to the challenges of a college-level academic program, but you have likely not acquired the expertise in your undergraduate education that you’ll need to excel in your career. A minimum of a master’s degree is now preferred in many fields that in years past only required a bachelor’s. 2. Strengthen your perception as a leader. By increasing your knowledge, you send a strong message that you can manage, inspire, and influence. By contributing to research in your field, you enrich your professional community and gain leadership leverage along the way. 3. Advantages to point out to potential employers. Your master’s degree makes you more marketable. By pursuing your graduate degree, you demonstrate to potential employers that you are willing to tackle and solve tough problems. You go beyond simplistic answers to create, analyze, and compare career findings at a higher level of competency. 4. Cohort connections that cater to your career. In cohort models similar to the master’s program in Organizational Leadership at Goodwin University, students go to school with the same set of people from their first day of class through to graduation. Models like these help students gain perspectives from those in the same field and develop relationships inside the classroom and out with professionals who can assist with future networking. 5. Higher education means higher salary potential (and lower layoff rates). When you strive for a higher education, you also encounter higher salaries and increased job security. According to the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association, those with their master’s degrees will earn salaries 35% higher than bachelor’s degree holders. Also, as stated by the US Department of Labor, the higher your education, the less likely you are to be laid off. With a master’s degree, you have the potential not only to earn 42

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020

more money, but also to be valued in your profession as a lowrisk, high-reward employee. 6. Achieve personal fulfillment with financial backing. Once you graduate with your master’s, your belief in your capabilities and self-esteem will seem to skyrocket. Your persistence, determination, and accumulated knowledge and experience are all symbolized in the diploma you proudly display. For lifelong learners, a master’s degree improves their overall quality of life, as they confidently follow professional career paths and even create more fulfilling personal lives. Master’s graduates lead the way in creating connections and contributing to their professions, embodying the type of streamlined self-assurance that leads to success. Students who finish a master’s degree often find themselves admitting that their very fears were the tipping point to their professional triumphs. This newfound confidence will fuel your life and your family’s life experiences. You can’t underestimate the value of finding your own way. No one who truly commits to pursuing a higher education remains entirely the same. Over time, opinions, perspectives, and point of views mature, deepen, and grow. Graduate students explore their perceived limits and ultimately discover more about themselves. By becoming more self-aware, they have an increased impact on those around them, as their professional and educational perseverance provides an ever-expanding platform for greater civic and societal engagement. So, the next time I am asked why someone should get a master’s degree, I will have a new response: Why shouldn’t someone get a master’s degree? Sandi Coyne-Gilbert is an accomplished leader with experience in both the education and nonprofit sectors. Coyne-Gilbert specializes in working with adult learners and is enthusiastic about instilling a passion for lifelong learning in her students. Her work with at-risk and marginalized groups provided her with unique insights into the power of education for people in transition. Beyond the educational field, Coyne-Gilbert also has experience in marketing and nonprofit leadership. Most notably, she was one of the driving forces behind the development of the Ronald McDonald House in Springfield, MA. Coyne-Gilbert brings her experiences to the classroom as program director for the master’s degree in Organizational Leadership at Goodwin University. Are you ready to make a lasting impact? She’d love to hear from you. Call us today: 800.889.3282 or learn more at www.goodwin.edu/ leadership. See ad on page 10.

evoke a deluge of pain and heartache. The “why” is not for us to know and we can spend lifetimes asking the questions without getting any concrete answers. Instead of focusing on trying to figure out why this happened to us, wouldn’t it be better to ask, “How can I learn or benefit from this situation?” What doors are opening as a result of this loss? What future might lie before me if I can walk away from what doesn’t serve me now? I can give many examples of how my life changed for the better after ending a relationship, but perhaps the best example is the opportunity that opened for me as a result of losing a job.

Dr. Di’s Corner

ccording to many energy healers and spiritual teachers, we are in a time of great transition. It may appear like there is total chaos on the planet – unstable weather patterns, corporate corruption and of course, the dreaded coronavirus amongst other diseases. However, many teachers are saying that this is a good and necessary thing for us all to evolve to a higher level of consciousness. Change for many brings elements of fear. Sometimes it may feel as if things are being ripped away from us even if it’s something we’ve asked for or have outgrown. As creatures of habit, we feel more comfortable when things stay the same and when we know what to expect. But that doesn’t allow for growth. In order for us to evolve, we must accept that change is necessary and we must look at it as a beneficial thing. We must learn to allow people and things to flow in and out of our lives without trying to hold on too tight. It’s holding on and resisting change that creates drama and causes us turmoil and pain. But the letting go part…that’s easier said than done, right? One of my favorite quotes by Richard Bach that I repeat to myself whenever I’m in a situation of thinking I might lose something or someone - is this, “If you love something, set it free. If it comes back to you, it’s yours. If it doesn’t, it was never meant to be.” However, knowing what I know now, I would modify the statement, “it’s yours” to “it’s yours for now.” If you can fully step into the belief that all you have is what is in this present moment and begin to stop worrying about the future or replaying the past, then you will accept change gracefully and easily. I can think of a number of experiences in my life when I held on and resisted the flow and every time it caused me pain. From the death of my father to a broken engagement to leaving a job I loved, each time I would dwell on the “why” and

Back in 2006 I had been working for a nutritional supplement company as their Director of Education and Sales. My job required me to present at conferences all over the country to audiences of 100 to 10,000. I absolutely loved it. I thrived on the energy of educating huge groups of people and potentially changing their lives. But as I said, things come to an end. The company was making changes and my job description was one of them. I ended up leaving, but it was like a divorce! Because of the strong emotions I had with this loss and my need to know “why”, I started pursuing a spiritual path. This eventually not only completely changed me as a person, it was the reason I started Natural Nutmeg. Because I was able to bend to the change, I was led to a much more fulfilling and impactful career. Now I’ve helped hundreds of thousands of people. Change is fearful and learning to live without someone or something you love and have grown accustomed to is hard. But if you can sit with it, lean into it and let the feelings flow through you, then you begin to accept change and in time can see the amazing opportunities that it brings. If you would like more weekly or monthly inspiration, please email me to sign up at drdianehayden@gmail.com.

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We can help you get your health back in balance naturally with proven treatments, therapies and cutting-edge diagnostics. Adam Breiner, ND Brain Health Lyme Disease

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Naturopathic Medicine Hyperbaric Oxygen Neurofeedback Neurotherapies PRP & Stem Cells Altitude Contrast O2 Pulsed Magnetic Field Therapy Phototherapy

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Whole-Body Medicine, LLC

The Natural Approach for Optimal Health

501 Kings Highway E., Ste 108 | Fairﬁeld, CT | 203-371-8258 | WholeBodyMed.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Deanna Cherrone, M.D. Internal Medicine Certified Functional Medicine practitioner

“Do you believe you should feel better than you do?” Functional Medicine explores the root cause symptoms of: • Fatigue • Brain Fog • Sugar Cravings • Insomnia • Depression • Stress & Anxiety • Constipation • Allergies • Pain & Inﬂammation • Inability to Lose Weight • Detoxiﬁcation • Food Sensitivities • Mold • Lyme • Leaky Gut • Menopause & Andropause • Thyroid • Genetics Many of our patients are simply looking for someone who will listen.

Natural Health & Healing provides Functional Medicine with emphasis on patient education and self care for optimal health.

Natural

Health & Healing

LLC

We help restore balance so that you can look, feel and function your best.

Get the support you need to achieve optimal health! Health Coach Kathy Beach will help you clarify your health and wellness goals and support you on your journey to achieving them. She will provide insight, inspiration and accountability!

Kathy Beach, NBC-HWC

National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach

Health promoting lifestyle changes addressed include: improving diet, managing stress, maximizing sleep, increasing movement and removing exposure to chemicals we come into contact with on a daily basis.

Health Coaching Programs: • Change Your Eating, Change Your Life Coaching Program • Whole 21 – A Journey Through a Whole Foods Diet and the Mind Body Connection • 14 Day – Renew Cleanse • Cancer Wellness Coaching • Corporate Wellness Programs • Wellness Retreats • In-person or virtual

CALL TODAY: (860) 677-4600 41 N Main Street Suite 207 W. Hartford, CT 06107 • www.naturalhealthandhealing.net 44

Natural Nutmeg - April 2020