Natural Nutmeg January 2017 by Natural Nutmeg Magazine/Essential Naples Magazine

January/February 2017

Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Essential Living

The #1 Factor in Successful Weight Loss Frank Aieta, ND

Leveraging the Natural Power of the Mind to Conceive Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BC

New Year’s Resolution: Healthy Meal Planning Ayelet Connell, PhD, PT, IMT,C The O-Shot: The Next Generation in Natural Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction Henry Sobo, MD

7 Steps for Healthy Conception with TCM Tina Grinold, L.Ac, MAOM What is the Right Diet and Exercise for Weight Loss? Let Your DNA Decide Anne Mitchell, ND You Are Here to Live and Learn Bernie Siegel, MD

Natural Nutmeg Celebrates 10 Years! www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Cultivate a peaceful mind, a strong body, and healthy eating habits at WHY. Discover the benefits of yoga with 60+ classes each week—power, hot, gentle, restorative, yin, prenatal. "Whether you are a power yogi or someone looking to practice relaxing yoga ... this place has it all."

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Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

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Nutrition & Nutritional Genomics Autoimmune Disease Mast Cell Activation Disorders Autism PANS/PANDAS Lyme Disease Food Allergies/Sensitivities Leaky Gut Syndrome Mood Disorders Detoxification Programs Thyroid Disorders Corrective and Clinical Exercise

Call (860) 321-7234 for an initial consultation. 25 Bailey Road, Suite 5 Avon, CT 06001

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www.NaturalNutmeg.com

In This Issue 11

A New Year’s Veggie Resolution

In Every Issue 24

Adam Breiner, ND

Julie Wern

New Year’s Resolution: Healthy Meal Planning

Ayelet Connell, PhD, PT, IMT,C

Weight Loss: Is There a Magic Bullet?

Struggling with Infertility: Try a Natural Approach

Hypnosis: Discover the Secret to Effortless Weight Loss

Leveraging the Natural Power of the Mind to Conceive

Find more articles and search our web archive at naturalnutmeg.com

26 Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

The #1 Factor in Successful Weight Loss Frank Aieta, ND and Diane Hayden, PhD

Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BC

The O-Shot: The Next Generation in Natural Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction Henry Sobo, MD

Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT

7 Steps for Healthy Conception with TCM Tina Grinold, L.Ac, MAOM

Tonya Pasternak, ND

What is the Right Diet and Exercise for Weight Loss? Let Your DNA Decide Anne Mitchell, ND

Michael Dworkin, PD, CCN, & J. Erika Dworkin

It’s More Than Just a Knock on the Head

7 NUTMEG NUGGETS

9 THE BUZZ 12 10BEST WINNERS

36 HAPPENINGS 39 RESOURCES 42 BERNIE

Natural Nutmeg

2017 Editorial Calendar March

1. Detoxification 2. Choosing the Right Supplements 3. Ecofriendly Products for Home and Personal Care Special Focus: Hotel & Spa Getaways in New England

naturalnutmeg.com

Celebrate 10 Years of Natural Nutmeg in 2017! READERS! - WE NEED YOU -

April

1. Food Sensitivities 2. Natural Allergy Relief 3. Organic Gardening Special Focus: Pet Health Special Focus: Farm to Table Dining

May / June

1. Hormone Replacement for Women and Men 2. Lyme Disease Natural Treatment Special Focus: CT Farms and Farmer’s Markets

Magazine

Each month, we will showcase the “10 Best Of” with the most nominations in a particular category

Nominate your favorite business/practitioner in each category by 1/20/17

July / August

1. Metabolic Exercise 2. Outdoor Adventure Special Focus: Farm to Table Dining

Natural utmeg N Natural

Nutmeg’s 10 BESTof 00 best Readers’ Choice Readers’ AWARDS ofChoice Magazine

Please provide your nominations for all categories using the link below:

September

1. Natural Therapies for Kids 2. Finding Your Passion with Life Coaching Special Focus: CT Spas and Natural Beauty Choices

http://tinyurl.com/NNBestOf

October

1. Natural Treatments for Cancer 2. Epigenetics and Genetic Testing 3. Breaking Bad Habits Special Focus: Pet Health Special Focus: Farm to Table Dining

November / December

1. Stress Reduction and Sleep 2. Healthy Holiday Meal Planning Special Focus: Natural Gift Giving Guide

MAR: APR: MAY/JUN: JUL/AUG: SEPT: OCT: NOV/DEC:

HEALTH FOOD STORES NATURAL PET STORES · HOLISTIC VETERINARY NATURAL PRODUCTS · FARMS & FARMER’S MARKETS FARM TO TABLE REST. · WINERIES & BREWERIES NATUROPATHS HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS YOGA & PILATES · ENERGY HEALERS

Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at Hartford Hospital is pleased to announce its new Integrative Medicine Center

Integrative Medicine

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At the Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center-Avon 80 Fisher Drive, Avon Park North Avon, CT 06001

Acupuncture

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Guided Imagery & Hypnotherapy

Wellness Classes & Education

Massage Therapy

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Personalized Genetic Testing

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PUBLISHER'SLETTER

s it possible that 10 years can fly by in the blink of an eye? It must be because Natural Nutmeg is celebrating 10 years of publishing in 2017 and it feels like it was just yesterday! In the spring of 2007, I started Natural Nutmeg Magazine because I was so passionate about using natural remedies for healthcare and I believed Connecticut residents needed a print resource for a healthy lifestyle. I wanted to bring together holistic practitioners with readers who were searching for these types of treatments and therapies. My vision was for Natural Nutmeg to become THE local resource for natural medicine, nutrition, fitness, green living, travel and personal development. It started out as a small newsprint publication that was distributed in just 50 locations throughout the Farmington Valley and Hartford county. I remember our first print issue in October of 2007 and worrying about whether anyone would even pick up the magazine. Now they fly off the stands at most of our distribution locations in the first week! In 2011 we revamped the look and feel of Natural Nutmeg to a glossy cover and bright white recycled paper to give a more professional style to the magazine. That’s when distribution really took off and we would expand to cover the entire state in over 1000 locations with over 250,000 readers! We produced two major wellness conferences in 2009 and 2011 and sponsored countless health fairs and holistic events throughout the state including the CT Women’s Expo. And, something else I never would have imagined, in 2014 we launched our sister publication, Essential Living Maine, in Portland, Maine. There were many challenges along the way and sometimes I wondered if I’d made the right decision to start my own business. I have to admit, there were many days when I wanted to give up. I’m sure my struggles are no different than most publishers – will there be enough revenue to maintain and expand the business, will our readers keep picking up the magazine and supporting our advertisers, and how can we keep coming up with unique and interesting content? But the one thing that has kept me going all these years is you…our reader. Even though I typically don’t get to meet or talk to most of you, I hear amazing stories from my advertisers about how much you love the magazine and how it helped you with finding a practitioner and you got off medication and healed a chronic disease. And even though I don’t see YOU, seeing empty racks all over the state makes it all worth it. I realize that all I did was create the space…you, our reader, and our advertisers, writers and fantastic staff, are what has made Natural Nutmeg the amazing publication that it has become. So my heartfelt gratitude and thanks to you, my loyal reader, whether you’ve been reading for 10 years or 1 month. I’m so grateful that I didn’t give up. I’m hoping for another 10 years and together we can reach multitudes of people and build communities where everyone leads a healthy, active, sustainable lifestyle in peace and happiness. I hope you continue to learn and experience as much as you can from this great magazine and please tell everyone you know to read Natural Nutmeg because together we can create an incredible world to live in. 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 FAIRFIELD COUNTY MARKETING DIRECTOR Alicia Blair Alicia@naturalnutmeg.com HARTFORD COUNTY MARKETING DIRECTOR David Iacino David@naturalnutmeg.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashley Frament layout@naturalnutmeg.com SOCIAL MEDIA Erica Morawski & Alexa Morawski ADVISORY BOARD Ann Aresco, N.D. Deanna M. Cherrone, MD Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N. (Pend.) Debra Gibson, ND Lauren Young, ND Kenneth Hoffman, LAc, CCH Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N DISTRIBUTION Greater Hartford and surrounding counties, please contact Natural Nutmeg. FFC - Tom Cossuto, Man In Motion, LLC

Natural Nutmeg Magazine

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

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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. © 2007-16 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 adver tisements, nor are we responsible for the products and ser vices adver tised. We welcome your feedback.

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

Nutmeg “Nuggets”

Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions With Hypnosis

s one year ends and another begins, do you find yourself repeating the New Year’s resolutions that you’ve made countless times before? You tell yourself, “This time I’m really losing weight.” Or, “This year I’m quitting smoking for good.” But why should this year be any different? They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. So, if you truly want to make changes in the New Year, consider hypnosis. Hypnosis taps into the power of your subconscious to create meaningful and lasting changes in subconscious thinking. When thinking changes, so do beliefs, fears, desires, habits, and all of those things that create resistance when you attempt to achieve something new. Hypnosis is not a passive process. You will participate by honestly communicating your goals and what has previously held you back from achieving those goals. It’s also important that the goals are truly yours. Hypnosis will not help you lose weight if you’re simply trying to satisfy social pressure. Hypnosis will not help you quit smoking if you’re only doing so because your friends and family are nagging you to. Whatever change you make with hypnosis has to be made with both your cooperation and your consent. Hypnosis is a very relaxed state of consciousness. This allows new information to easily take root in the subconscious, thereby transforming old beliefs and thought patterns that no longer serve well. Accessing the subconscious through hypnosis allows the hypnotist to communicate your consciously chosen beliefs to the subconscious mind in order to increase success and the ease with which your goal is accomplished. For example, if you choose to lose weight and your subconscious believes that, “healthy food is boring” and “exercise is draining,” then it will find ways to create those experiences for you. Through hypnosis, these beliefs can be replaced with, “I enjoy eating a variety of nutritious foods” and “moving my body is fun and energizing,” and so these become your new experiences. Weight loss becomes easier, not because fat is magically melting off of your body, but because there is no more subconscious resistance to making the lifestyle changes that are required for weight loss and maintenance. Likewise, if you choose to quit smoking and your subconscious believes that, “I’m too stressed to manage my life without cigarettes,” then you will find your smoke-free days limited in number. Hypnosis will help you replace that negative belief with a positive one such as, “I am so much more productive now that I am free from that old habit. I have more energy, more money, and more time to pursue worthy interests.” You then begin finding it more desirable to take control over cigarettes than to allow yourself to be controlled by them. Whether you resolve to lose weight, quit smoking, or achieve some other meaningful goal, if you’re determined to make your New Year’s resolution stick this year, hypnosis may be the best gift you can give yourself! Michele P. Rousseau (MA, CH) is a hypnotist in Middletown, CT. For information, see http://micheleprousseau.com.

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Nutmeg “Nuggets” Still Trying? The Importance of Emotional Support During Fertility Challenges

ow many times have you heard the words, “Don’t think about it and it will happen!” or “Just relax, when you least expect it, it’ll happen!”? These words often inadvertently feel like blame; as if to infer a woman is doing something wrong, or she has not yet tried hard enough to conceive. Whether a couple is facing another disappointing negative test result or enduring a new and perhaps more extensive test, the journey of fertility struggles is highly stressful and can be traumatic at times. The sexual relationship once shared between two is now a roundtable discussion at medical appointments. For some this is embarrassing or intellectualizes intimacy leading to a lack of excitement or passion. The need to engage in intercourse on a schedule can make either partner feel self-conscious, discouraged, or even resentful. Communication between partners and an ability to share each partner’s unique experience at this time is critical. Both partners can benefit from outside support and validation of the relationship strain that accompanies infertility. At a time when everyone and their sister seems to get pregnant when their partner just looks at them the right way, women trying to conceive are often inadvertently left feeling isolated. Rarely does a woman advertise openly that yet another month has gone by without successful conception. When a woman who has struggled with fertility eventually conceives, she may feel reluctant or afraid to share her news due to real or imagined fear of a miscarriage. Women may grieve the loss of the long-anticipated joy of sharing with others if they find themselves afraid to speak of the pregnancy. For some, this feeling may dissipate after the first ultrasound, or once through the first trimester when miscarriage risk is thought to decrease. For others, lack of attachment may be a shameful feeling they hide from others for weeks or even months after the arrival of a healthy baby.

Bringing Meaning Back to the Homecare Industry

hen I was growing up in a small town in Poland, I took a look at the many elders in my family and community, and the families and people that cared for them. For them, caregiving wasn’t a job, or a way to simply help out a family member, it was their passion. Once I immigrated to the United States, I naturally took along this same passion for bringing people together and began connecting caregivers who had just immigrated here with job opportunities and a place to live. My reason for bringing such people together was simple: to bring sunshine to someone’s day. Finding a Qualified Caregiver There are many risks that families may overlook when looking for a caregiver for the first time. Although a caregiver may use registries and agencies to find work, they also work independently and organize their schedules on their own. But think about this. Who will check their criminal background? What if the caregiver you choose gets sick, needs time off, gets hurt on the job, or has trouble connecting with your loved one? This is one of the most important reasons why consulting with an agency can significantly improve the way your loved one will receive the care, enrichment and support they deserve. Everyone needs a support team, whether it’s their family, friends and even coworkers. Look for a care team made up of experienced geriatric social workers, care coordinators and gerontologists. They represent the clients and caregivers as well, and offer them the guidance and legal advice they may need to handle their scheduling and steer them clear of any obstacles down the road. Caregiving is a rewarding yet very immersive career that can take a toll on the physical and emotional needs of an individual.

Whether a woman is struggling with trying to get pregnant, navigating fertility treatment, staying pregnant, or unhappy with her attachment during and after pregnancy, psychotherapy is complementary to conventional medical care, reproductive endocrinology, nutritional counseling, chiropractic care and acupuncture. Women and couples need to know they are not alone, and they can overcome these challenges with emotional wellness and support.

Putting the “Care” Back in Homecare By taking the time to profile and learn about what makes a caregiver tick, a company can match individuals with someone who, like a soulmate, will bring purpose back to their life. We don’t believe in labeling anyone as a “senior,” because there is truly no expiration date for living a fulfilling life. We want to rekindle the value they can still bring to their families’ lives, whether it’s being the best grandparent in the world, the best husband, the funniest friend, the best mentor, or the life of the party.

Catharine McDonald, MS, LPC is a licensed professional counselor and owner of Growing Well Counseling. She specializes in motherhood transitions, perinatal emotional complications and wellness. Her private practice is located at 131 New London Turnpike, Suite 323 in Glastonbury, CT and insurances are accepted. For a free consultation please call (860) 837-0204, or visit www.growingwellcounseling.com for more information. See ad below.

I would love to change the way the industry provides care more than anything because what we do here is not just about homecare. We are about bringing meaning back to the lives of our clients. My goal is to make sure that the families we work with are aware of their options, help them find their unique solution, and guide them through every step of the process. There is a uniqueness in everyone, and our goal is to find these qualities in both our clients and caregivers.

You are not alone. Motherhood is challenging. Catharine McDonald, MS, LPC 131 New London Tpke, Ste 323 Glastonbury, CT 06033 tel (860) 837-0204 www.growingwellcounseling.com

offering individual & couples counseling Specializing in Perinatal mental health & well wellness couple & parenting transitions-birth traum trauma fertility -loss insurance accepted - call for a free 10-minute consultation

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

Maggie Drag is the founder and owner of Euro-American Connections & Homecare, a homecare agency that provides hourly and live-in services throughout Connecticut, located in Berlin, with over 27 years of experience in the homecare industry. Maggie has witnessed the industry slowly transition into becoming a commodity, rather than an industry of service and care. She decided to fight against this trend and stay committed to her family of clients and caregivers. Her focus on their wellbeing in and outside of work has always been a priority, and has become her purpose. She especially fosters the unique culture of Eastern European Care that sets her company and caregivers apart from other agencies. Visit homecare4u.com to learn more about Maggie and her team, or call for a consultation at (860) 829-0208. See ad on page 3.

THE BUZZ Reconnect with the Sisterhood in The Red Tent

have felt disconnected from ‘the sisterhood’ my whole life. My mother abandoned me when I was a year old and I was subsequently adopted by a dysfunctional family headed by an abusive matriarch. At times I was verbally abused, talked down to, made to feel worthless and at other times I was physically beaten for speaking my truth. As a result, I wrapped myself tightly within the conviction that women were not to be trusted. This belief festered as I grew up and I witnessed girls judging one another and competing for boys’ attention. Many women have similar stories. We have longed to feel supported by our sisters and mothers. We have spent hours wondering, “Why don’t they like me?”, “Why am I not good enough?”, “Why won’t they support me?” Perhaps you remember that time back in school, or perhaps you still experience now, when women you’d love to trust feel more like your competition. Recently, I was led to read The Magdalene Manuscripts and Mysteries of the Dark Moon. These texts speak eloquently about the power of the feminine. Demetra George, author of Mysteries of the Dark Moon, shares how we transitioned from worshipping the divine power of Goddesses and honoring the cyclical ways of Mother Nature, to worshiping the masculine energies, the Sun Gods and the book religions. The rituals and perspectives of the feminine were diminished, persecuted and have continued to be oppressed for the last two thousand years. From fear of being burned at the stake, we stopped practicing the rituals that gathered us, fulfilled us and empowered us. We began to turn on one another and judge one another for shining the little light that we had left. It is time to change this. “Our Red Tent” is a contemporary movement to empower modern women in studying the ancient ways with each other and to honor our divine rhythms and cycles. Throughout Herstory, the story of the feminine, women have gathered in red tents, moonlodges or menstrual huts as a place to rest during their blood time. These sisters were attuned to the moon’s natural rhythms; their moon cycles would synchronize and they would bleed together during the new moon. While in the tent, the women would share their stories and learn the women’s arts. I can only imagine how different my understanding of the feminine role in society would be if I were raised in a community that held the red tent tradition and supported the profound beauty and miracle that it is to be a woman.

I feel called to ignite the idea that we should gather in circle again. Let us shed together, release together, celebrate our shadow and our beauty together. Let us collectively recognize our power. Let us create a safe sisterhood that will fill our longing soul with an abundance of love. By honoring the new moon concept, we relearn ourselves and our relationship to Mother Nature’s cycles. Instead of experiencing the end of a cycle as death, we can appreciate the beauty in the breakdown, the miracle that is the phase of renewal. Our bodies need this phase to rest and rejuvenate, our hearts need this time to reflect and heal, our minds need an opportunity to slow down and relax, our souls need this pause to breathe before forging ahead to conquer our next lessons. The end of a cycle is just a time of transition. Not to be feared but to be embraced for the magical field of possibilities that it is. Just as the caterpillar must experience metamorphosis, so must humans. There is no avoiding the stages of being broken down completely into pieces and being given the opportunity to rebuild. When this phase can be honored and seen for the blessing that it is, we move through it with a renewed grace and ease. We can support one another unequivocally. Who doesn’t desire more of this in their life? For Monthly Red Tent Gatherings Please Join Us at Experience Ananda in New Haven. Visit www.goblissyourself.com or https://www.facebook.com/goblissyourself/ for a schedule with event details. Amanda is a radiant inspirational speaker, alternative healer and self bliss guru. Amanda is the founder of Experience Ananda, a community center intent on teaching that everyone is worthy of L-O-V-E and that blissful living is easily obtainable and your birthright! She offers Reiki, Professional Cuddling, Tantric Coaching and Workshops. See ad on page 31.

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www.NaturalNutmeg.com

THE BUZZ Unleash Your Inner Dancer…Try Barre!

arre exercise classes are a great option for a full body, low impact workout. If you’re looking to try something new that’s hard on your muscles but kind on your joints then barre is definitely something you should add to your weekly workout regimen. The class is set to energizing music and the movements are choreographed to the beat bringing out the inner dancer in all of us! You do not have to be a dancer or have any experience with dance, all you need is a positive attitude and the willingness to work hard and focus on your mind-body connection to get the most benefits from the class. Every class at barre 44 combines elements of ballet, Pilates, cardio & strength training to tone and elongate every muscle. We work on and off the barre and use small props such as light hand weights, mini stability balls, exercise bands and medicine balls as well as glider discs. Your posture will change as you train your body upright and your muscles will become strong, long and lean, taking on a dancer’s physique. We also believe in functional movement so it’s not just pulsing for an hour. Benefits of Barre Exercise: 1. Everyone is welcome! There is no experience required and beginners are always encouraged to join. It doesn’t matter what anyone else is doing in class, you can always modify the exercise and work at your own level. If you are advanced, the instructor will offer ways to challenge you as you progress and get stronger. 2. Every muscle is worked in one full hour. Finding time to fit in exercise can be challenging, which is why hitting every muscle group and incorporating cardio in one hour is a huge bonus.

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

3. Barre is kind on your joints but hard on your muscles. The combination of small movements and isometric control really fires up those small muscle groups which reduces the pressure on joints, ligaments and tendons. 4. Barre strengthens your CORE. Since barre is an alignment based workout with Pilates as its foundation, you are always working your core. We focus on posture and pulling your abdominals up and in to stabilize through all the movements. You will notice a huge difference in your core strength as you progress through the classes. A strong core is a great way to prevent injury. 5. Barre will help you increase your flexibility. All of the stretching helps you gain a wider range of motion. The more flexible you are, the more you are able to increase your range of motion which is helpful not only in sports and fitness, but our everyday lives. It’s also a form of active relaxation that can improve both mental and physical health. We stretch and lengthen the muscles throughout the class, after working a specific muscle group to fatigue. You will notice a big difference in your flexibility when you do barre on a regular basis. At the end of every class, we take an additional 5-7 minutes to stretch, breathe and relax the mind and body. So, what are you waiting for? Give barre a try and experience for yourself all the benefits, and how good it makes you feel from the inside out. I promise you will leave class feeling better than when you walked in! Danielle Srb is the founder and owner of Barre 44. She has been involved in fitness, dance and sports for over 20 years. She is a certified Barre and Pilates instructor. Her mission in opening barre 44 was to create a boutique studio in a small setting where each client gets the attention and focus they deserve and foster a supportive and empowering fitness community. Classes at barre 44 are fun, high energy and challenging but welcoming to all levels. To book a class or learn more, visit or call Danielle @ 860-967-4140. 51 East Main Street in Avon

A New Year’s Veggie Resolution By Julie Wern

anuary is the month of resolutions. Each year a significant portion of resolutions have to do with dieting and weight loss. Yet you have probably heard that diets don’t work. As many as 90% of successful dieters end up gaining their weight back and more within 6 months. Further, repeated dieting has been linked to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, weight loss resistance, and even eating disorders. Imagine this January making a different kind of resolution! A resolution focused on increasing health and wellness versus decreasing your pants size. In my experience as a health coach and a recovering dieter, I have found that only health related resolutions tend to stick and that healthy changes in diet do more to lower and stabilize my weight than any fad diet ever has. I propose that the single most profound resolution you can make this January is to increase your daily intake of vegetables. Did you hear me? I didn’t say take your favorite foods away or put yourself in diet deprivation. I am saying ADD something to your life—the healing, weight regulating, disease preventing miracle of fresh vegetables. Vegetables do much to promote weight loss and general wellness. The fiber in vegetables keeps you full and satisfied longer, allowing you to eat less overall. Of course, any vegetables you eat that you didn’t eat before will improve your health and possibly help you lose weight, but to maximize the nutritional impact of your vegetables buy the freshest organic vegetables you can find in all the colors of the rainbow, and then add them to everything. Here are some of my favorite methods for maximizing vegetables in a diet: • When making soups, stews or casseroles, literally double the amount of vegetables called for in the recipe. Consider adding greens to every soup or stew and even casseroles and pasta dishes. • Add shredded vegetables like zucchini, carrots, turnips, or broccoli stems to taco meat, meatloaves, meatballs. • Instead of making a vegetable and a starch for your meals consider making two veggie sides more days than not. • Use pureed vegetables in sauces. Carrots and zucchini cooked in pasta sauce and then pureed makes a wonderfully sweet marinara sauce that negates the need for added sugar. Pureed cauliflower makes great alfredo sauce or “gravy” when added to bone broth or stock. • Eat at eat least one salad a day. Swap out iceberg and romaine for lettuces with more nutrient density like spinach, arugula, kale, and baby dark greens. Remember to add lots of vegetables on top! • Always serve vegetables with dips and/or cheese and crackers when entertaining. Consciously eat the vegetables before diving into the crackers or bread. • Use shredded or pureed vegetables in baked goods. This practice adds moisture, vitamins, fiber and micronutrients to otherwise often unhealthy treats.

Gluten Free Pumpkin Carrot Muffins Makes about 12 muffins Ingredients: • 1 1/4 cups organic gluten free quick oats • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 2 large organic pastured eggs • 1/3 cup pumpkin puree • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar • 1/2 cup coconut sugar • 1/4 cup avocado oil, plus 1 tablespoon • 1/3 cup organic raisins • 1 cup shredded carrots 1. Preheat oven to 325. Line muffins tins with paper liners. 2. Place quick oats in a food processor and process until very finely ground to a flour. Place in a medium bowl. Add pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and whisk until well combined. 3. In a small bowl, whisk eggs, pumpkin puree, apple cider vinegar, coconut sugar, and avocado oil until well blended. Whisk egg mixture into flour mixture. Stir in raisins and shredded carrots. 4. Divide among muffin tin cups (they should be filled close to the top). Bake about 11-12 minutes, or until tester comes out clean. Place on a cooling rack and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Carefully turn out onto cooling rack and cool, right side up, until ready to serve.

The last suggestion to add veggies to baked goods is a favorite of my clients with families. It is amazing what can be made with added veggies—granola and snack bars, muffins, breads, and even cakes and cookies. This month I offer a delicious winter favorite of mine—Pumpkin Carrot Muffins made with heart healthy, high fiber oats instead of regular flour. If you think you can get away with it, reduce the sugar further for an even healthier treat. Julie Wern is a psychotherapist turned stay-at-home-mom turned health coach and cooking instructor. She is a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and the author of Holcomb Farm CSA’s Simply Fresh blog (http://holcombfarm.org/blog), as well as her new food and lifestyle blog, The Wholesome Gourmande (www.thewholesomegourmande.com). It is Julie’s passion to help individuals find their unique path to health without sacrificing joy and pleasure in food. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Anew You Skincare & Wellness Celebrates 10 Years!

10BEST WINNERS Congratulations to our 10Best Winners of our reader’s choice survey on best Fitness Providers and Best Spa and Skincare Centers in CT!

10Best Fitness Providers: 1. m.e.l.t. Fitness South Windsor/Glastonbury/ Simsbury/West Hartford 2. ProNatural Fitness Berlin 3. Orange Theory West Hartford/Fairfield 4. Gold’s Gym Windsor 5. John Evans The Zoo Simsbury 6. Tribe West Hartford 7. WIP Fitness West Hartford 8. Columbia Crossfit 9. Healthtrax Glastonbury 10. The Edge Fitness Danbury

10Best Spa and Skincare: 1. Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center, Avon 2. Organachs Farm to Skin Westport 3. Waterview Wellness Center Portland 4. Healing in Harmony Center Glastonbury 5. Aetheria Organic Day Spa New Canaan 6. Les Beaux Vous Torrington 7. The Hair Color Company and Spa Farmington 8. Massage Envy West Hartford/South Windsor/Milford 9. Peartree Organic Spa Darien 10. Saltana Cave Ridgefield

Next Issue’s 10Best: Health Food Stores 12

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

his business spotlight is our first in a series recognizing local holistic practitioners and businesses that are celebrating 10 years in 2017. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Melissa Martin Wallace, owner of Anew You Skincare & Wellness in Avon to discuss her inspiration and success. DH: Why did you want to start your own business vs. working for another spa? MW: I worked in corporate settings for 15 years and always knew it would not be forever. I had always wanted to have my own business for the freedom and accomplishment aspects of it. Once I got involved in skincare, and saw how happy people were with their results, I knew this was the industry for me to pursue. Once out of Esthetic School, I worked for several spas and knew I could do it on my own. Opening Anew You Skincare is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! DH: What has been your biggest success and your biggest challenge in owning a business for 10 years? MW: My biggest challenge was opening the doors not knowing if any of my current clients would join me at my new business. Turns out client referrals is a huge part of my business and is the best compliment I could ever receive. To me, it means that I am able to help people look and feel better. Our clients often say, “It is so relaxing in here”! Our environment is unique. Think an oasis, a healing respite for opening your mind, rejuvenating your body and soothing your spirit. This is an important part of who we are because we want your visit to have an amazing effect on your well-being and allow you to take some time out from your daily schedule. DH: What plans do you have for the future? MW: I am currently in the process of an exciting new venture! I am launching a new line of handcrafted natural body care products to include body lotions, body butters, foot treatments, lip balms, soap, bath bombs and shower fizzles. DH: What are you most proud of that you’ve accomplished in the last 10 years?

MW: Ten years has truly flown by! It seems like yesterday that Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center opened its doors. We’ve stayed true to our philosophy to offer natural, non-invasive, effective treatments and products that treat the entire person. We offer a range of treatments from traditional to advanced including deep tissue massage, massage cupping, reflexology, traditional facials, collagen facials, microdermabrasion, medical grade peels, non-surgical facelifts, cellulite treatments, detox footbaths, reiki, eyelash and eyebrow tinting, facial broken capillary, milia and skin tag removal. Our treatments are alternatives to surgery and injectables and relieve tension, regenerate and renew. DH: What advice would you have for practitioners/business owners about how to be successful in their industry? MW: Quality matters and stay positive. Like attracts like. Interview by Dr. Diane Hayden. Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center, located in Avon, Connecticut, was founded in 2007 by Esthetician Melissa Martin Wallace. Melissa has been in the skincare industry since 2001. She and her staff focus on providing natural, non-invasive, customized treatments that are good for your health and your appearance! See ad on page 29.

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New Year’s Resolution: Healthy Meal Planning By Ayelet Connell, PhD, PT, IMT,C ew Year’s resolution time is upon us! For many of us, this includes making promises to ourselves to be healthy this year—to eat healthier and make a stronger commitment to our health and our family’s health. But for most of us, as the year moves along, and we become more and more busy and ‘distracted’ with the ongoing stressful events of lives, we lose focus on ourselves and our health. It can feel like we’re slowly sinking into an old pattern that repeats itself every year. The key to shifting this pattern is finding an easy routine to help us plan for our weekly healthy meals.

Initial Questions There are several steps to consider before the actual weekly shopping expedition: 1. What types of foods and flavors do you and your family enjoy? Are you meat eaters? Do you like fish? What types of flavor profiles? Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern? 2. When do you have the most free time? In the evening after the kids have gone to bed or maybe on a weekend morning? 3. Are you on your own in this process or can your partner or another family member help out? 4. Are you cooking just for yourself or for you and your family? Initial Planning Considerations Here are some things that are helpful to consider before you shop: 1. Keep it simple! As we start to feel more accomplished in this meal planning process, we can get more creative in our cooking. Initially, it is much easier to be successful with ‘ongoing’ healthy meal planning if we create simple and delicious meals. To create a simple meal, let’s imagine an empty dinner plate. Here are the dinner plate percentages for an optimally healthy meal that will help us feel energetic and revitalized: a. 25% natural meat (grass-fed beef; natural and hormone-free poultry; wild fish; natural lamb or other game meat such as bison; natural eggs)—the amount of protein on your plate should equate to the size of your palm or a deck of cards—about 3-4 ounces. b. 50% diverse multicolored vegetables—cooked and/or raw is great (you can vary the colors throughout the day and week!) c. 25% starchy root vegetables such as sweet potatoes or winter squash like acorn squash, spaghetti squash, rutabaga, and so on. d. Healthy Fats!!! 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil; avocado, nuts and seeds. These fats are essential for a healthy brain, cardiovascular system, and so much more. 2. Let’s consider some examples of this type of dinner plate: a. Roasted chicken with sautéed kale and ginger with roasted peeled/chopped sweet potatoes b. Wild salmon with roasted broccoli and pureed butternut squash with cinnamon c. Grass-fed steak with steamed green beans and roasted multicolored potatoes 14

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

3. Be sure to cook extra food for dinner to provide you with leftovers for lunch. This makes your meal planning so much easier. If you are cooking for yourself, the leftovers will provide you with lunches and dinners. You can also repurpose the leftovers for the following dinner. For example: a. You could take left over roasted chicken and make chicken soup with mixed vegetables such as carrots, celery, parsnips. b. You could make chicken or turkey salad and add in the leftover roasted potatoes and some chopped celery. c. If you have leftover meat or fish, you could make a salad and top it with the protein and then create a homemade salad dressing with tahini and lemon juice and some gluten free soy sauce or Bragg’s aminos. d. You could take leftover grilled salmon and make a salmon salad with it by adding chopped celery and celery salt and mayonnaise. 4. An optimal healthy diet is rich in anti-inflammatory foods which means foods that do not induce inflammation in the body such as diverse vegetables, natural protein, and healthy fats. When eating an anti-inflammatory diet for greater health, it is important to avoid inflammatory foods such as gluten, processed dairy, refined sugar, and overly processed foods. The easiest anti-inflammatory diet includes many diverse and multicolored vegetables, natural protein, starchy veggies such as root vegetables like sweet potatoes, and healthy fats such as nuts and seeds and extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil. Being gluten free can be helpful, but often, avoiding a food like gluten causes us to search for replacements that can be overly processed like store bought gluten free snacks. Ideally, avoiding grain as a main focus of a meal and reserving it as an accessory to ‘some’ meals such as using gluten free whole grains like brown rice or quinoa as a side dish will help us with achieving optimal health. Weekly Meal Planning: Let’s Get Organized To start the meal planning process, it is very helpful to have a piece of blank paper in front of you and mark out the meals for the week including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You may find that you only need to plan out the weekday meals depending on whether you tend to eat out over the weekend, or maybe you and your family tend to eat in all week. Draw out the grid and leave an empty box to write in for each meal of each day that you are preparing for. As you become successful with this process over the course of a few months and it becomes second nature, you will depend less and less on this grid. Being more rigid with this process in the beginning will support you in your success. As you view the grid, consider how many dinners worth of proteins and veggies and starchy veggies you will need. Lunches usually don’t need to be counted because leftovers will usually count for lunches. As for breakfast, you may use some of the leftover protein for breakfast but mostly, it will also be a separate category. If you are

cooking for you and your family, you may consider that you need a separate protein, vegetable and starchy vegetable for each dinner meal. For example, if you are cooking at home for 5 dinners (Monday through Friday), you will need 5 separate proteins, 5 separate groups of vegetables, and 5 groups of starchy veggies. This largely depends on what is available at the grocery store. You may choose to alternate between beef and poultry and fish for the various dinners. For natural protein, here are some examples: Monday: Split breast chicken Tuesday: Wild salmon Wednesday: Grass-fed steak Thursday: Turkey tenderloin Friday: Grass-fed stew beef For vegetables, you will need to see what is available and fresh at the store, but here are some examples: Monday: Broccoli Tuesday: Green beans Wednesday: Brussels sprouts Thursday: Kale Friday: Zucchini and yellow squash For starchy veggies, here are some examples: Monday: Spaghetti squash Tuesday: Sweet potatoes Wednesday: Mixed multicolored potatoes Thursday: Acorn squash Friday: Rutabaga For fats, you can use any of these options to integrate into your meals: Extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil or avocado oil to cook with or mix into your prepared dishes. Avocadoes such as guacamole, nuts and seeds to mix into prepared dishes, or cook with them; such as pistachios encrusted wild salmon or sunflower seeds mixed into cooked kale or sesame seeds tossed with roasted broccoli and avocado oil and lemon juice.

Let’s Get Started Initially, this process may seem awkward. But overtime, if you stick to the simplicity of meal preparation, the process will start to feel more and more innate. The key to long-term success with maintaining a healthy diet throughout the year is to be prepared. For all of us, there will be nights where we just don’t have time to cook because of a late meeting or some other type of obligation. In these instances, utilize the slow cooker. There are thousands of slow cooker recipes online. The key to a tasty slow cooker meal is some basic preparation that can be done in the morning before you leave (for example, searing the meat before you place it in the slow cooker to lock in the juices). Surfing the web is always fun during our free time to find unique and creative recipes, but remember that keeping it simple in the beginning is always easier for longterm success. The most important thing to remember is to keep your food fresh. For more great tips on healthy meal planning for breakfast, lunch and snacks – see the extended version of this article at www.naturalnutmeg.com. Dr. Ayelet Connell, PhD, PT, IMT,C is President and owner of Integrative Wellness & Physical Therapy in Bloomfield CT, a wellness center offering Physical Therapy, Integrative Manual Therapy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, and nutritional wellness. Ayelet is a natural health expert and has written and published many articles on the subject. She is a Physical Therapist and Certified Integrative Manual Therapist and has taught courses all over the world in Holistic Physical Therapy. Ayelet is also a local of this community and has been living in the Greater Hartford area for many years, where she integrates a healthy lifestyle at home with her wonderful family. See ad on page 17 and 23.

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Weight Loss: Is There a Magic Bullet?

By Michael Dworkin, PD, CCN, & J. Erika Dworkin Some Disturbing Facts: More than 2 in 3 adults are considered to be overweight or obese. More than 1 in 3 adults are considered to be obese. More than 1 in 20 adults are considered to have extreme obesity. The BMI (Body Mass Index, based on height & weight) is most commonly used to estimate overweight and obesity. BMI of Adults Age 20+: Normal Weight BMI : 18.5 to 24.9 - Overweight BMI: 25 to 29.9 Obese BMI: 30 + - Extremely Obese BMI: 40 + ~ U.S. National Health & Nutrition Examination Survey (2009–2010) U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), www.niddk.nih.gov

ant to lose weight for self-esteem or health reasons? The bad news is that dieting doesn’t work and there is no magic dietary supplement that will shed your pounds quickly on its own. The good news is that, though long-term, permanent weight loss can be a challenging process, it is definitely achievable (even post-menopause and post-andropause) with a commitment to permanent lifestyle changes that include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight-controlling supplements. Step 1: Make A Commitment Weight gain occurs when calories consumed exceed those burned. Other factors can also interfere with weight-loss efforts, including: (1) many health conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism, candidiasis/leaky gut, adrenal fatigue, PMS, menopause, depression, diabetes, poor digestion); (2) certain prescription drugs (e.g., those for diabetes, corticosteroids/prednisone, psychotropics/antidepressants); (3) genetic, social, emotional, and psychological factors; and (4) elements of an unhealthy lifestyle (e.g., poor sleep, excess stress, inadequate physical activity). While the importance of these and other health factors should not be ignored, weight loss generally begins with a commitment to investing in one’s self and positive beliefs about achieving one’s goal. Motivation based on reasons to lose weight that are truly meaningful to the individual can greatly facilitate starting and maintaining a long-term program. It therefore makes sense to list or journal those reasons and return and/or add to them on a regular basis for ongoing motivation. A lifestyle change coach can also provide any additional necessary emotional support and promote program compliance and accountability. 16

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

Step 2: Change Your Diet It is a good idea to first detoxify the body to prime it for weight loss. There are many gentle herbal cleansing kits available, or consuming detoxifying drinks (lemon-and-water variations; green tea) first thing in the morning and throughout the day can also help remove cell-crippling toxins, boost metabolism, promote regularity, and support the body’s elimination pathways (liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, bowels, lymphatic system, blood). During and after a detox regimen, it is critical to avoid polluting the body with highly-caloric, nutrient deficient, pro-inflammatory, and otherwise toxic foods. A healthy weight-loss dietary program, which restricts calorie intake and includes ample nutrient-dense foods: (1) excludes gluten, dairy, alcohol, processed foods, all whiteflour foods, processed sugars, and saturated/ hydrogenated/trans fats (beef, pork, lamb, duck) (this contrasts with recommendations of paleo diet proponents); (2) minimizes or eliminates simple carbohydrates, legumes, and grains (sweets, past, bread, potatoes, rice); and (3) emphasizes high-quality organic proteins (fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, whey), low-sugar fruits (berries, apples), organic extra virgin olive/coconut oils, activated (soaked overnight) almonds, walnuts, and seeds, and dark green and cruciferous vegetables (including spirulina). Consuming a daily breakfast that follows these guidelines is critical to weight loss (those who do so are 33-50% less likely to be obese!). Refraining from eating after 2-3 hours before bed will not necessarily promote weight loss directly, but it can support restful sleep, which generally contributes to maintenance of healthy weight. Step 3: Burn Fat & Build Muscle Ideally, a weight-loss enthusiast will seek to lose fat AND gain muscle. Loss of 1-2 pounds/week, or no more than 1% of your total body weight, is a safe, sustainable, long-term goal. But the scale isn’t the final word. Muscle weighs more than fat, and the body burns more calories to maintain a pound of muscle than it does to maintain a pound of fat. So, the more muscle the body gains, the more calories it will naturally burn daily (1 pound of muscle burns roughly 5-6 calories/day at rest). Some experts consider interval or burst training (20-40 minutes, 3-4 days per week) to be the best way to burn fat quickly and promote after-exercise fat burning for up to 36 extra hours, but this approach is not for everyone. The key is to start and keep moving

on a regular basis, ideally daily or no fewer than five days per week, for a total of 40-60 minutes. Selecting something enjoyable (or at least tolerable) with relatively easy access is important to long-term compliance with any exercise regimen. Consider: walking 10-20 minutes after every meal (effectively lowers post-meal blood sugar); yoga (especially kundalini yoga); cycling/spinning (at home or at a gym); resistance training (even light weight lifting); or ballroom/ other dancing or dance classes (e.g., zumba). Step 4: Include Supportive Dietary Supplements While a weight-minimizing lifestyle is most critical to weight loss and permanent, healthy weight maintenance, certain nutritional supplements may support and even accelerate the process. Whether a product is right for a particular individual generally depends on the reasons excess weight is gained and maintained, and getting results can require some experimentation and patience. The limited scope and space of this article allows for discussion of just a few affordable options:

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1. Blood Sugar Managers Blood sugar balance is crucial to losing pounds and keeping them off because it contributes to increasing metabolism. Blood sugar level is the amount of glucose from food that becomes available in the blood to provide energy to cells either immediately or in the future after being stored. Blood sugar at high levels (excess glucose) gets stored as fat. Low blood sugar (inadequate glucose) causes the body to go into “starvation mode” and thus to hold on to fat and instead burn lean muscle. Try: (1) Berberine: a compound found in multiple plants (goldenseal, Oregon grape, phellodendron) that activates AMPK, an enzyme in cells that regulates metabolism. Since AMPK regulates various biological processes that normalize glucose, lipid, and energy imbalances, activating it can produce the same benefits as exercise, dieting, and weight loss; and/or (2) Chromium (Chromemate/GTF): a trace mineral that combats insulin resistance and facilitates uptake of glucose in the cells. 2. Fiber Many types of dietary fiber can assist with weight loss, but holistic practitioners view glucomannan (soluble, fermentable, and highly viscous) from konjac root as a “super fiber” because it: (1) is well-tolerated at high doses of 2-4 grams/day; (2) effectively promotes a sense of fullness; (3) prevents absorption of calories and causes their excretion by absorbing up to 50x its weight in water; (4) controls appetite by increasing the weight of food consumed without increasing calories and reducing the amount of insulin produced after a meal.

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In one 2011 study, researchers examined the effect of PGX (a novel combination of konjac/ glucomannan + sodium alginate + xanthan gum) on appetite in 35 overweight and obese women consuming a 3-day structured diet. They concluded that adding 5 g of PGX to low-calorie meals reduces food consumption and increases satiety, and that PGX “may be a useful adjunct to weight-loss interventions involving significant caloric reductions.” 3. Appetite Suppressants (1) Relora® (Magnolia + Phellodendron) - induces relaxation, reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and combats fatigue and stress eating; (2) Garcinia cambogia (60% HCA)- some short-term, small studies have demonstrated this fruit’s association with short-term weight and fat loss by suppressing the appetite and inhibiting the enzyme (citrate lyase) that the body uses to convert carbohydrates to fat. 4. Fat Burners (1) If Not Hypertensive – formulas that include bitter orange (source of synephrine and octopamine, chemicals in ephedra), moderate doses of caffeine/green tea-EGCG/ guarana (for those with no adrenal, thyroid, prostate, anxiety, or hypertension/cardio issues); white willow bark, and/or bioperine/

black pepper; (2) If Hypertensive – formulas containing fucoxanthin, a brown seaweed carotenoid clinically proven to burn fat naturally without side effects, or lactoferrin [found in breast milk; male and female study subjects with abdominal obesity who took 300 mg/day for 8 weeks showed significant reduction in dangerous abdominal (visceral) fat, body weight, BMI, and hip circumference; and (3) Whey Protein (Ideally: Grass Fed; Organic; Micro-Filtered Isolate; total 1-2g protein per pound of body weight per day) - pre-exercise whey consumption supports fat burning and may help those who exercise gain or maintain lean body mass. With a healthy diet, daily exercise, and the appropriate nutritional supplements, you can combat weight gain and thus improve and prolong your life. Try starting with some form of enjoyable exercise and an experienced practitioner or health coach who can guide you through the healthy-diet and supplements maze and chart your progress. Once the health effects of your new lifestyle begin to kick in, you’ll crave nutritious foods and will wonder how you ever ate all those high-caloric, nutrient-empty foods! The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to take the place of a physician’s advice. The natural remedies discussed herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Submitted by Michael Dworkin, PD, CCN, a Registered Pharmacist and State Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CT Cert. No. 232), with J. Erika Dworkin, Certified Lifestyle Educator and Board Cert. Holistic Nutrition (Cand.). Co-owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe (860.646.8178, 378 Middle Turnpike West, Manchester, CT, www.cthealthshop. com), Pharmacist Dworkin has been guiding patients since 1956. Erika is available to speak to groups. All statements in this article are research-based and references are available upon request. See ad on page 7.

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

Struggling with Infertility: Try a Natural Approach By Tonya Pasternak, ND

t is estimated that over 12% of reproductive age women struggle with infertility. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 1 year of trying, or after 6 months if over the age of 35. While the emphasis is often placed on causes pertaining to the woman, male causes of infertility contribute equally. Reasons why couples struggle with conception vary greatly and are due to unknown causes in up to 20% of situations. Hormones, body composition, structural abnormalities, metabolic conditions and lifestyle factors all play a part for both men and women. Because each situation is unique, a proper workup is essential for being able to correct the underlying cause. Treating the underlying cause can help a couple get pregnant naturally and can also increase success rates of various reproductive therapies such as in vitro fertilization.

common causes for this include: polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and functional hypothalamic amenorrhea.

First Steps of Pregnancy While pregnancy is one of the most natural processes on earth, there are a surprising number of steps that need to take place in order for it to happen successfully. The first step is that a women needs to ovulate, or release an egg. The egg needs to be met and penetrated by a sperm and then travel down the fallopian tube to the uterus. Next, the fertilized egg must successfully implant within the uterine lining before it can begin to grow. From here hormones, genetics, the immune system, and nutrition all affect whether or not the pregnancy can be maintained. Interference in any of these steps can lead to infertility or loss of pregnancy.

Having polycystic ovarian syndrome doesn’t mean that a woman cannot get pregnant, however it can pose difficulties. In these situations the goals of treatment are focused on balancing hormones and managing weight and blood sugar in order to promote regular ovulation. This can be done naturally through the use of certain herbal medicines, nutrition, and lifestyle habits. If you have PCOS and are planning on getting pregnant in the future, it is best to start these natural treatments sooner than later to give the body enough time to create favorable changes.

With the first step of pregnancy being that a woman must ovulate, lack of ovulation is a major cause of infertility. Typically if a woman does not get her menstrual cycle or is having fewer than normal cycles, it is likely she is not ovulating. Some of the most

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Ovulation PCOS is a common endocrine condition in which a woman’s hormonal balance is off, leading to excess androgen hormones such as testosterone. The overall hormonal effects lead to eggs not fully maturing and releasing from the ovary. Additionally there are impairments in the body’s insulin sensitivity, oftentimes contributing to the development of elevated blood sugar or diabetes. Women who have PCOS typically present with irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, male pattern hair growth, obesity, and impaired insulin levels. However it should be noted that a person could have PCOS without presenting with all of these characteristics.

Hypothyroidism in Women Hypothyroidism is another common condition that can affect female fertility. When not functioning at the proper rate, an imbalanced thyroid can disrupt a number of hormones necessary for conception. Not only can this prevent ovulation, but it can also lead to miscarriages or difficulties for

the growing fetus. It should be noted that the thyroid could contribute to infertility even at sub-clinical levels, meaning levels in which treatment is not normally required. Luckily abnormal thyroid levels are relativity easy to correct, which can greatly improve the likelihood of becoming pregnant. While this is often done through the use of medications, combining natural therapies promotes proper functioning of the thyroid as well. This is done through monitoring and supplementing with nutrients required for thyroid hormone production as well as following dietary guidelines that decrease damage and autoimmune attack to the gland. As with treating PCOS, the sooner the condition is addressed the greater the results will be. Effects of Physical and Emotional Stress on Ovulation The term functional hypothalamic amenorrhea refers to a few different situations in which lack of ovulation is the end result of stress placed on our bodies. This stress can be emotional or physical, and results in a disruption in the normal balance of sex hormones. Physical stress encompasses being over or underweight as well as partaking in excessive exercise. Because functional hypothalamic amenorrhea is typically the results of lifestyle habits, the effects on the body are reversible assuming the stressor can be removed or lessened. Treatment for this situation is different caseby-case depending on the particular stressor. Maintaining a healthy weight and adequate nutrition is essential in any situation. If the stressors are primarily emotional, there are numerous options to help the body cope including craniosacral therapy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, hypnotherapy and counseling. Your practitioner can help you sort through the various treatments to find what would work best for you and your body.

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Structural Blockages that Interfere with Pregnancy In addition to anovulation (lack of ovulation), women can also experience infertility due to structural abnormities. As mentioned earlier, the fertilized egg must be able to travel down the fallopian tube and then be implanted within the uterine lining. Any blockage in this pathway can inhibit pregnancy from progressing. Common causes for a blockage include past surgeries, pelvic infections, ruptured appendix, sexually transmitted diseases, fibroids and even endometriosis. If the structure of the reproductive organs is in question there are various types of imaging that can be done for assessment including an ultrasound or x-ray, which is referred to as a hysterosalpingogram. Endometriosis Support In the case of endometriosis, it is best to be preventative and implement hormonebalancing treatments as soon as possible to prevent structural changes. While oral contraceptives are often used for this, there are a number of vitamins, botanicals, and foods that can help balance hormones without using oral contraceptives. Additionally it is important to become educated on how to avoid toxins such as those in our food and cosmetic products that can worsen hormonal imbalances that contribute to the condition. Male Infertility Infertility is similar amongst males and females. Because there are more steps taking place within a woman’s body there are more chances of things going wrong along the way. For men, the main problem area boils down to the health of the sperm. When analyzing sperm there are three factors to consider; concentration, morphology, and motility. So, males need to produce a high number of correctly shaped sperm that have the ability to reach the egg. An issue with any one of these factors can contribute to infertility due to the fact that the sperm will not reach the egg for fertilization. When a couple is worked up for infertility, it is common for the male to get a semen analysis to assess the viability of the sperm. A number of factors influence semen quality including thyroid health, obesity, environmental toxin exposure, and lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking, and drug use. Hypothyroidism in Men In males the thyroid is necessary for sperm development and an underactive thyroid also contributes to abnormal

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weight gain and obesity. Obesity itself is an additional risk factor for male infertility. Therefore, correcting the health of this gland will help restore reproductive health in more than one way. Other avenues can also be explored with your physician to help determine the best path to getting back to a healthy BMI. Switching to a Mediterranean diet not only helps with weight management but has also been shown to enhance fertility, so it can be a great starting point for overall health. Lifestyle Factors that Affect Fertility If factors such as smoking, drinking or medication use are the cause of infertility, there are many avenues of support to help overcome habits or addictions. These include counseling, herbal medicines, acupuncture and even hypnosis. In some instances the cause of poor sperm quality cannot be treated directly, however there are great natural remedies to promote healthier sperm production. Since sperm have such a short life span it is important that they have a healthy environment to exist in. Antioxidants are an effective treatment for increasing sperm function and viability by mitigating the damage done through such factors. Steps Towards Restoring Reproductive Health It is currently estimated that infertility rates affect over 12% of women, a number that is consistently rising. While there are many factors that can contribute to this, it can be difficult to determine where the issue lies. If you find yourself having trouble getting pregnant, begin by having both partners receive a thorough workup and address any issues that are found. Naturally supplying your body with the extra nutrients it needs during pregnancy can greatly improve fertility. Beginning this as soon as possible will give your body the best chance at restoring reproductive health. Dr. Tonya Pasternak is a licensed naturopathic physician at Connecticut Natural Health Specialists, LLC. Dr. Pasternak offers expertise in female health, chronic disease and chronic infections as well as a myriad of natural modalities from craniosacral therapy to herbal medicine to help each individual have the best possible health. Dr. Pasternak is currently taking new patients. All of the physicians are in network providers for most insurance companies. For more information or to make an appointment, please call (860)533-0179 or visit ctnaturalhealth.com. See ad on page 23.

Hypnosis: Discover the Secret to Effortless Weight Loss By Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT t’s that most wonderful time of year again. The leaves have fallen from the trees and the temperature of the air is cool and crisp. The dark evening sky is sprinkled with bright sparkling stars and little white snowflakes waft gently through the air. Invitations galore have filled our calendars with parties and dinners and special celebratory events as we merrily ate and drank our way into the New Year. And, if you are like many people, enjoying all those wonderful homemade desserts, rich holiday food, delicious wines and bubbly drinks has caused a very dramatic, unwanted, unhealthy and unsightly weight gain.

Unfortunately, you’re not alone. As the holiday season comes to an end it is often time for personal reflection. Your New Year’s resolution may once again be vowing to gain control over your eating behavior and finally lose weight. You may be unhappy with your image in the mirror but yet still not able to find the ability or willpower to end the sabotaging, out of control behavior preventing you from losing that excess weight. Self-Sabotage and Emotional Eating Like many people, you probably know what to do to lose the weight. You may have the best of intentions to stop eating all those sweets or starchy carbs or just eat less and really begin that “diet” on Monday! We all know diets don’t really work. We feel deprived, unhappy and frustrated. You know the right foods to eat but something may stop you from following through with the plan. Motivation and willpower suddenly disappears! Sometimes it feels as though there is a good angel and bad angel on your shoulder and the bad angel is winning! Cravings, emotional eating, portion sizes and out of control behaviors often get the best of us …we give in and then we give up. We fail again and again. There is good news for those who want to combat obesity, gain control and lose weight. Hypnosis is an easy, natural, relaxing and successful solution to lose weight without dieting. Imagine, being able to stop weight loss sabotage simply by relaxing while your subconscious mind accepts the positive suggestions for the changes you want to make. All Change Begins with the Mind The subconscious mind is very much like a computer and may be running old or defective programs! Many of us have developed unhealthy relationships with food over the years. We eat when we’re sad, angry, lonely, stressed and even when we are happy. Many have developed the habit of overeating and using food to satisfy emotional issues we may often confuse with our appetite. This habit can gain strength and power over the years to become an automatic response that the subconscious uses to address any stressful situation or event.

We diet and deprive ourselves and become more and more unhappy. Many people “diet” themselves to weigh over 300 lbs. It’s not your fault. Studies have shown that the subconscious mind manages over 90% of our behaviors. It doesn’t even make sense that we can change something on a conscious level when the subconscious is in charge. It’s obvious that simply using willpower and motivation is just not enough. Therefore, if you want to change a habit or modify behavior it can naturally and easily be changed by using Hypnosis. Traditional Hypnosis or Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis Traditional Therapeutic Hypnosis has been a very successful tool for behavioral changes and weight loss for many years. However, a new European hypnosis technique, the Virtual Gastric Band program gives the subconscious mind suggestions that the stomach is much smaller, the size of a golf ball, as if the gastric band were surgically installed. This technique is a safe and healthy alternative to weight loss surgery and is designed to replicate the effects, results and benefits of the gastric band, or bypass surgery, without going under the knife. During hypnosis the natural endorphin and serotonin levels of the body are increased and as this occurs, the conscious portion of the mind, which is critical and analytical, is temporarily suspended or bypassed. In this state, the subconscious mind can easily accept the suggestions for change to benefit the individual. Hypnosis can finally end the old sabotaging behavior and help your mind work for you instead of against you. Therefore, whether you choose Traditional Hypnosis or the new Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis program, Hypnosis has the ability to help you regain your willpower to eat consciously and healthfully so you can finally lose weight….without deprivation! Diane Bahr-Groth, CH, TFT-Adv, Director of Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center specializes in fast and effective methods for weight loss, healthy eating, stress, fear and pain reduction, smoking cessation, success, motivation, sports performance as well as fear and phobia elimination for public speaking and other issues. She is a registered Consulting Hypnotist and Certified in Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis Program™, Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™, Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP), Complementary Medical Hypnosis. HypnoBirthing™, Touch for Health (Systematic Applied Kinesiology) and Healing From The Body Level Up I, II and III. Diane is a member of the National Guild of Hypnotherapists. Established in Fairfield County since 1989, her office is located at 1177 High Ridge Road in Stamford, CT. For more information or to schedule a free consultation or appointment please call 203 595-0110 or go to www.mindbodytransformation.com. See ad on page 18. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Another client’s subconscious mind was preventing pregnancy because she was not feeling fully committed to her partner and was often having thoughts about the relationship not working and her subconscious mind didn’t want her to be a single mother. The subconscious of another mother-to-be said that she needed to clean up her diet in order for it to be safe for her to get pregnant.

Leveraging the Natural Power of the Mind to Conceive By Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BC

he infertility statistics in the United States are a bit inconsistent, depending on the source you reference, but let’s face it, if you’re someone who’s struggling to get pregnant; statistics are the least of your concern. It doesn’t matter what the numbers say, all that matters is what you’re going through personally. If you’re like most women I’ve worked with, you feel that you’re on a rollercoaster consisting of the strong desire, or even what feels like a need, to have a child; flashes of hope; tuning into even the slightest physical sign that something different is happening inside your body; anticipation of a positive outcome; then the emotional plummet when your hopes are dashed. The upset, the anger, the strain on your relationship, the hopelessness and then the energy and effort required to pick yourself up to get on the ride again can be overwhelming. In fact, 55% of people polled believe that difficulties getting pregnant are more stressful than being unemployed and 61% feel that they’re more difficult than getting a divorce. If you’ve had the additional challenge of having a miscarriage, there is a whole other range of emotions that you’re dealing with. Thankfully, there is help, and that help lies within you. I know you’ve probably spent a lot of time researching, consulting and paying for outside resources, but I can honestly say that the best one I know of is your subconscious mind - the mind that’s known as, “the body’s mind or the emotional mind.” This is the mind that’s finetuned to what’s really going on vs. what the conscious or rational mind believes, fears, or has been told is going on. Accessing Your Subconscious The best way to access this part of your mind is through hypnosis. During a hypnosis session your subconscious mind can identify your body’s full potential to conceive and carry a healthy child to term. Once it has identified your body’s full potential, it can also identify the various blocks and barriers that are in your mind and body’s way of realizing that potential. For example, I was working with one of my fertility clients last week and we bumped into the mental block of, “I’m too busy.” A large part of her desperately wants a second child, but her internal mental dialog has been “busy,” ever since the birth of her first child. Her subconscious mind let her know that it was preventing pregnancy because it was trying to protect her from being even busier and protect the new child from not having the love and attention it needs from their “too busy” mother. 22

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It’s crucial to remember that the subconscious mind is the powerful and dedicated employee of the conscious mind, and that the instructions that the conscious mind issues, the subconscious mind follows unquestioningly, so the thoughts in the conscious mind must be in line with what is wanted vs. what is feared. Many of the pregnancy blocks I’ve found over the years sound like, “I’m too old,” “My mother, sister, friend had troubles conceiving, I probably will too,” and “I’ve heard how painful childbirth is…I’m scared.” All of those thoughts are literal instructions to the subconscious mind, and every one are counter to conceiving, so the most important thing is to begin to analyze your thoughts or the instructions you’re giving to the subconscious and make sure that the instructions you’re providing are in line with what you want to happen vs. what you fear won’t happen. Try, “If women in their 60’s can get pregnant then I certainly can.” “I am not any other woman, I am myself and my body was created to conceive and give natural healthy birth to a child.” “Someone else’s birth experience doesn’t need to be mine, hundreds of women give birth comfortably with hypnobirthing.” You mind needs to be in a positive, faith-based place so that your body can relax and do what it was born to do. Fear and Stress Fear creates tension and impedes blood and energy flow. It creates a belief of “I can’t” within the body instead of “I can.” Fortunately, hypnosis can help. Having worked with hundreds of couples that were struggling to conceive (the key word is “were”) I can say that I’m consistently amazed at the variety of mental and emotional blocks that the subconscious mind finds. And, once those are cleared, I am time and time again pleasantly surprised by the body’s ability to do what it was born to do, which is to create and give birth to a beautiful baby. Statistics are clear that stress is one of the leading causes of infertility in this country. Stress effects the hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain that helps regulate the hormones involved in conception, FSH and LH. It also controls the pituitary and adrenal response, which regulate the levels of stress hormones in the body. A delicate balance of hormones is needed for every stage of conception, and stress (otherwise known as fear) will throw that balance out of whack. Stress really is nothing more than fear, and your subconscious mind, when guided properly, can do an amazing job of not only pinpointing your unique fear but can also clear it for you. When the fear is gone, your mind, your emotional body and physical body can relax and when the whole of you is relaxed and filled with faith instead of fear, things happen as they’re intended to. Hear what some happy clients have to say: “How do I say thank you to the person who gave me the thing I wanted most in this world? My mind was convinced that I wouldn’t have a child of my own and my heart was broken because of it. It was a grief I never thought I’d recover from. You helped my mind see what my body was capable of, you helped my heart feel hope and that gave my body the confidence it needed to create my beautiful baby girl. I’m going to have a son next.” -Lisa, NYC

When you do become pregnant, hypnosis is an amazing tool to enable your body and your baby to have a comfortable birth experience. “When it came time for delivery, I remained in a relaxed state and really felt my baby just coming out. Even though I was encouraged to push, I knew my body was just doing its thing – and it did. Delivery took only ten minutes, and I did not need an episiotomy. After that moment, I really don’t remember anything but my little boy. I am so pleased that I took the time to work with you; you helped me change my outlook on childbirth and made it possible for me to enjoy the experience. I still use the relaxation techniques that you taught me, and I look forward to learning more in the future.” -Alisa O. Research supports these women’s experiences. Dr. Ernest L. Rossi specializes in psychobiology, or the relationship between the mind and physical body states. He has done extensive research to suggest that human genes must be in a state of physical readiness for conception to take place, and that hypnotic suggestions can activate specific genes in a specific order to help facilitate conception. Hypnosis is an amazing tool that can be used throughout the entire process. In my biased opinion, not using it is like trying to build a house without a hammer. Call for a free consult today, there’s nothing to lose (aside from your fear) and much to gain. Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BC” is the owner, lead hypnotist and hypnosis instructor at Mind Matters Hypnosis Centers in Avon, Guilford and North Branford, CT. She is Board Certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists and has numerous additional certifications in all aspects of hypnosis and the subconscious. In addition, she’s a sought-after lecturer and high-level Executive HypnoCoach. For more information or to schedule a lecture, workshop or appointment, call Mind Matters Hypnosis Center at (860) 693-6448 or visit MindMattersHypnosis.com. See ad on page 20.

How You Eat Affects How You Feel Reduce Your Joint Pain

Chronic pain is often caused by inflammation in the body. A poor diet will commonly contribute to joint aches and pain. Working with a nutritionist to improve your diet and lifestyle can greatly benefit how you feel on a daily basis.

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Holly Niles, Clinical Nutritionist

Are you ruled by your gut? Do you experience bloating, gas, abdominal pain? How we eat and what we eat can greatly affect how we feel throughout the day and night. Our Nutrition Team can teach you how to eat healthy without ‘going on a diet’.

Do You Suffer from Anxiety or Depression?

Many people don’t know that most of our mood modulating brain chemicals are produced in our gut. If our gut is inflamed, our mood is often affected. By learning how to eat in a healthier and more nourishing way, we can improve our mental health.

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Our approach to nutrition is to help our clients find practical ways to enjoy making healthy changes in their life. Being on a diet is never fun and rarely brings about long-lasting changes. But learning how to change your lifestyle to include more whole foods can bring about huge benefits in how we feel.

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It’s More Than Just a Knock on the Head By Adam Breiner, ND

oncussions and head injuries are all over the news lately, especially now that football season is in full swing. They’ve even made their way to the silver screen, with Will Smith’s latest sports drama, Concussion. It’s really no surprise concussions have been a hot topic lately. The more scientists learn about concussions or traumatic brain injury (TBI), the more adverse long-term effects they discover. Just last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued new recommendations to improve player safety in youth football, including zero tolerance for illegal headfirst hits and expanding non-tackling leagues. And according to the CDC, the overall number of children and teens diagnosed with concussions or TBI is on the rise. It’s common for kids to sustain head injuries due to sports accidents, everyday play, falls, and other mishaps. It’s important for parents to understand that concussions are much more serious than “just” a knock on the head, they can negatively affect children for the rest of their lives. Here are six things parents, teachers, and coaches need to know about concussions so that they can protect the young people in their care: 1. Concussions and TBI do real damage to the brain. Concussions and TBI occur when the brain suddenly shifts within the skull, usually as the result of a sudden blow, jolt, or change of direction (e.g., whiplash). A football tackle, being hit with a baseball or softball, heading a soccer ball, falling off a bike, and being in an automobile accident are just a few of the scenarios that can result in TBI. TBI and concussions are characterized by torn nerve axons, bruising, and inflammation. If not treated properly, this damage can continue to impede brain function, even long after the initial injury.

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2. Damage can have long-term effects. Because children’s brains are still growing, they are especially vulnerable to concussions. The damage caused by TBI can impair normal development. Potential long-term effects of childhood concussions include abnormal brain activity that lasts for years, memory problems, attention deficits, difficulty handling anger, language impairment, personality changes, difficulty making decisions, “foggy” thinking, and more. The bottom line is a childhood concussion can adversely affect an individual’s personal and professional success throughout his lifetime. 3. Multiple concussions are especially dangerous. If a child is concussed a second time while a previous brain injury is still healing, she may experience more serious symptoms, a longer recovery time, and even permanent cognitive and neurological damage. Since TBI is not a visible injury, multiple concussions are a major concern especially for young athletes. Many children return to sports or other risky activities before they have fully healed. For this reason, it’s crucial for parents and coaches to fully follow doctors’ advice and to err on the side of caution. 4. The signs of concussion can range from mild to severe. The immediate effects of a concussion can be subtle or very noticeable. Some of the most common postconcussive symptoms include headache, visual blurring, light sensitivity, difficulty concentrating, dizziness and balance problems, nausea, memory dysfunction, and fatigue. When in doubt, whether you notice symptoms or not, it’s always smart to get your child checked out after a blow to the head. 5. The first and best line of defense is prevention. No, you can’t raise your child in a bubble, but you can take precautions

to lower his risk of becoming concussed. If your child participates in an activity where falls or blows to the head are a possibility, make sure he wears a helmet. If your child plays a sport and you see unsafe behaviors happening in practices or games, speak up. Remove your child from the team if changes aren’t made. While I don’t believe that the risk of concussion means that parents should pull their children out of sports, I am a strong advocate of taking all reasonable precautions to keep young athletes safe. 6. The standard wait-and-rest advice may not be good enough. If your child suffers from a concussion (or one is suspected), you’ll most likely be advised to make sure that she rests physically and mentally for a few days. But don’t stop there. The biggest mistake most parents and coaches make is assuming that everything is okay when a youngster appears to have returned to normal after a few days of downtime. Remember, damage may be present that you can’t see and the only way to ascertain whether healing is complete is via functional brain imaging and other tests. Fortunately, the more science uncovers about the brain, the better we’re able to diagnose concussions and prevent negative longterm effects. Each brain’s cognitive abilities and electrical function is unique, meaning that “healing” will look different for each person. For this reason, it’s highly recommended that children and teens, especially athletes, get baseline tests (including neurocognitive testing and an EEG) before the athletic season begins. Having this baseline data on hand helps doctors evaluate the severity of the injury and determine when it’s safe for your child to return to prior activities. And what if it is determined that TBI has taken place? Here are three treatment options that have been proven to promote brain healing and health:

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). After patients are placed inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber with an oxygen concentration of 100 percent, the chamber is slowly raised between 1.5 to 2 times the normal atmospheric pressure. This allows more oxygen to enter the bloodstream, and where oxygen concentration is increased, healing is enhanced. Research has shown that HBOT dramatically improves both blood flow and function in the brain after injury. • Neurofeedback. As patients’ brain waves are read in real time, special software gives rewards, for example, audible feedback or making a movie brighter when optimal brain wave patterns occur. This prompts the brain to subconsciously repattern itself. • Diet and Nutrient Interventions. The acute (and eventually chronic) inflammation that occurs as a result of concussive injuries is at the heart of why they continue to cause problems. Incorporating certain nutrients and strong antioxidants into a patient’s diet can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Further, eliminating foods that can lead to low-grade inflammation (such as sugars and common food allergens like gluten and dairy) may also be helpful. Diet and nutrient interventions are customized to the individual. Brain health isn’t something most people think about on a regular basis, we tend to simply assume that our brains will always be there, doing their jobs. But the truth is, the brain is just as vulnerable to injury as other parts of the body. And in fact, TBI can have more serious, longer-lasting effects than, say, a typical broken arm or leg. Please, don’t assume that concussions are “normal” or that they won’t happen to your child. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to prevent and recognize concussions, and to seek proper treatment if one occurs. Adam Breiner, ND, is the medical director of The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center, a division of Whole-Body Medicine in Fairfield, CT. The Center is one of the only free-standing hyperbaric facilities in the region, focusing on helping patients with neurological conditions. Dr. Breiner has been a featured speaker on the subject of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, as well as EEG neurofeedback for healing the injured brain. He has also lectured on various topics including natural whole-body approaches to healing Lyme disease. For more information please visit www. theneuroedge.com or www.wholebodymed. com. To make an appointment, please call (203) 371-8258. See ad on page 10.

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What is the Right Diet and Exercise for Weight Loss? Let Your DNA Decide By Anne Mitchell, ND

hether your knowledge of DNA only extends as far as your high school biology class or you’re a PhD student elbows deep in genetic research, it’s universal knowledge that our DNA makes us who we are. It’s the unique code that each of us is born with and dictates much about our health, appearance, and development. But recent research shows that the “destiny” that your DNA lays out for you may not necessarily be set in stone. Simple changes in lifestyle choices have the ability to promote or silence genes in your DNA that lead to adverse health later in life.

ate different workouts and diets, OR you can test your genes. In the end, our genetics play a pivotal role in our overall health and fitness levels.

Each time we visit the doctor for a routine physical, we’re asked about our family health history. This question relates directly back to your DNA. When we say that everyone on our father’s side has a history of high cholesterol, it means that it’s extremely likely that we share whatever gene causes this and may ultimately end up with high cholesterol as well. Many of these heritable traits are unavoidable. We inherited the trait from one of our parents and that’s all there is to it. But diet can influence whether or not these genes become more active or suppressed over time.

If you were told that your body has a lower than average predisposition to lose weight, how would you feel about that? Would that encourage and motivate you to change your behavior? Or would it discourage you from doing anything? The belief is that knowing this information is more valuable than not knowing. As long as the interpretation of the data and the genetic data itself is scientifically valid, then how can knowing this information not be valuable?

While there is still much research to be conducted surrounding the link between diet and gene expression, one of the most compelling results suggests that the link may be stronger than originally anticipated. In a recent study, it was discovered that patients who followed diets containing 60% more carbs exhibited an over expression of the genes associated with cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Similar results have been seen in regards to the genes associated with conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Ultimately, people who carry the genes associated with these diseases speed up their adverse effects with the wrong diet. We’ve all realized for some time now that diet has a direct correlation to weight loss and weight gain, but understanding that diet can alter the future of your own health is groundbreaking. It’s why genetics is becoming an increasingly important platform in health and fitness. Understanding your genetic predisposition for certain diseases as well as your body’s ability to respond to diet and exercise writes a better prescription for increased health than any doctor could prescribe with medication. Finding a diet that’s unique to your body’s genetic make-up can suppress the expression of those bad genes we wished we’d never inherited. Essentially, eating more veggies may not make your family health history irrelevant, but it could stave off the effects of that high cholesterol that’s oh so common on your father’s side. Now the key is to figure out how YOUR unique body works. You can, of course, track your body composition for months, or years, while you use a trial and error process to evalu26

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Does Knowing Your Genetics Improve Your Behavior? As the brave new world of genetics marches forward and provides us with more and more information about the building blocks of our physical body, will knowing the qualities of these building blocks change our actual behavior?

If your genetics show that you are predisposed to having more difficulty losing weight compared to others, does that mean you are doomed to be overweight? Of course not. In addition to your genetic make-up, your environment and biomarker levels such as nutrients, lipids, and hormones are critical factors in your ability to lose weight. Ultimately, if you know your genetic markers, your biomarkers and your environment, you can have a path laid out in front of you to lose weight. It is completely up to you whether you change your behavior to do so or not. Being fully armed with knowledge, and working with a health coach will provide the motivation and accountability you need to reach your weight loss goals. Genetics is the Future of Preventive Health Genetic testing has moved into the mainstream and is the future of preventive health. In addition to the thousands of tests being offered for medical conditions and diseases, the science and research behind genetic testing related to lifestyle and wellness markers has progressed to the point of understanding the specific genes dictating how the human body processes carbohydrates, fat, protein, micronutrients, and how specific genes determine the effectiveness of certain fitness activities. Clinical studies and research on genetic testing related to lifestyle and wellness markers have been rapidly increasing in quality and volume since the human genome was first mapped in 2003. As the testing technology improves and the cost of analyzing an

individual’s DNA decreases, more research facilities and universities around the world are able to perform more research studies with larger test subject groups, all leading to further discovery about the connections between genetics and preventive health. Genetics and Fitness The DNA test will identify your body’s response to exercise, specifically your fat loss response to cardio, fitness response to cardio, body composition response to weight training, HDL response to cardio, insulin sensitivity response to cardio, and your glucose response to cardio. Each one of these categories allows you to piece together exactly what type of exercises you should be doing in order to maximize your results and experience increased weight loss. If for example you have a low response to cardio but a high response to weight training, then you should be lifting more weights when you hit the gym instead of just getting on the elliptical for half an hour.

It’s information like this that gives your health coach the ability to create a personalized fitness plan based on you as an individual. There are two main aspects of fitness that pertain to your genetics: aerobic fitness and the ability to build strength and muscle mass. In recent studies, it was determined that aerobic fitness is 40-50% heritable. This means that your body’s efficiency and ability to pump oxygen through the blood to your muscles has about a 50% chance of being determined by the aerobic fitness of your parents (or other relatives). Essentially, you could have a lowered aerobic fitness from the get go simply because of your genetic makeup. This is a crucial piece of information when it comes to fitness and weight loss as aerobic fitness is one of the most important components involved in physical fitness and could help or hinder your ability to lose weight.

genetic make-up is never an excuse to give up, your genes could be the reason you’re struggling to lose weight or see any type of results on your path to fitness. Programs tailored to an individual’s DNA have proven to be much more effective than generic programs. A recent study published by the European Society of Human Genetics found that dieters employing weight management programs tailored to the individual’s genome lost up to 33% more weight than those following standard, “one size fits all” weight loss programs. With the latest genomic technology, any health management program that does not take an individual’s genetic profile into account is simply guesswork.

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Of course, your ability to build strength and muscle is a huge part of the weight loss process and has been discovered to be 5060% heritable. Your mix of “slow” and “fast” twitch muscles is also 45% heritable. This means that some of us may be genetically predisposed to have more muscles geared towards sprinting, some of us may have more endurance muscles, or some of us may have a harder time building added muscle at all. With all of this being said, it makes sense to understand what your genes say about your ability to really get fit. While your www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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How to Get Started When you sign up for genetic testing, you will be sent a DNA collection kit, which you will use to swab the inside of your cheek and then send to the lab in the package provided. Once the lab receives your DNA test, they go to work analyzing a variety of genes to look for certain traits and tendencies that affect your fitness and weight loss. Your results will be divided into four categories: 1) Weight loss ability, 2) Food, 3) Nutrients, and 4) Exercise. Across those categories, there are 16 possible traits that your genes will exhibit, and 44 possible trait expressions.

GIFT SHOP

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For example, within the category of food, they will examine your body’s level of fat utilization. If you have a lower than average fat utilization, it could be one of the reasons you find it harder to lose that excess weight. On the opposite end of the spectrum, people with above average fat utilization could increase their fat intake. The next part of testing involves nutrient utilization and deficiencies. The test evaluates six different vitamins: B9, A, B6, B12, C and D. These specific vitamins have been proven to have a direct correlation with fitness and results allow you to determine what vitamins you need to supplement into your diet to become more efficient with your health.

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It’s also important to note that obesity in America is often approached with a treatment approach rather than a preventative approach. In fact, it has been shown that the U.S. health care system rewards procedural approaches to obesity such as gastric bypass, liposuction, versus preventative medicine that stops weight gain before it happens. This treatment philosophy in U.S. healthcare is part of the reason why DNA testing companies are beginning to pop up across the country. It doesn’t make sense to apply a blanket treatment to everyone’s health related problems. Just because 38 percent of the American population is obese doesn’t mean they’re all obese for the same reasons. There’s a cause in each individual that leads to the effect. While it might take more time and more physicians, in the long term it’s cheaper to practice preventative medicine. If each individual were to be tested for genetic predispositions for weight gain, thyroid imbalances, response to exercise, then each individual would understand how to properly care for his or her body and fewer people would face frustrations regarding their health or why they weren’t losing weight. In practice, it only makes sense to focus on one body at a time, because we are all genetically different.

LI TC H F I E LD

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

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why the chances are super slim of you getting a report that is even close to the same as someone else you know. Everyone is different, so we need to stop acting like the same diet and fitness plan will work for everyone. What is Included in the Report: The nutrition information will discuss how much protein, carbohydrates and fat you should consume daily, as well as which micronutrients you may be at risk for being deficient in, and which foods are good sources of those micronutrients. You will learn how your body responds to fat, protein and carbohydrate intake in relation to how you’ll use them for energy, and thus, how best to eat in order to lose body fat. You will receive a 40+ page report in layman’s terms, including: • Analysis of 16 genetic traits related to weight loss • Food recommendations, including macronutrient breakdown and caloric needs • Nutrient recommendations, including supplement suggestions • Exercise recommendations, including cardio and strength training • Supporting scientific research Your DNA report will also indicate what your likeliness is of using fat for energy during different types of exercise. It will give you specific information about exercises that are best aligned with your genetic test results: which types of exercise, at what intensity, for how long and how often. The Life Center is a Naturopathic office specializing in weight loss and nutrition. We recognize that you are as unique as your fingerprints and your diet should not be a one size fits all plan. The Life Diet is individualized according to your DNA and your metabolic uniqueness. We are dedicated to finding integrative health solutions that will help you heal your body, mind, and spirit. Contact The Life Center, 2 Broadway, North Haven and 1007 Farmington Ave, West Hartford, 203-239-3400, www. thelifecenterofct.com. See ads on page 23 and 25.

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7 Steps for Healthy Conception with TCM By Tina Grinold, L.Ac, MAOM More than six million couples are diagnosed with infertility, and more than nine million are seeking treatment for infertility in the US each year. These numbers are staggering and they’ve been progressively getting worse for decades. There is a complex array of contributing factors involved. Among them are the many stressors we find in modern life including environmental toxins, high stress, poor diet, sleep issues, and lifestyle choices. Other factors include low sperm counts, infections or scarring in reproductive organs, and hormonal irregularities. Add to all this the rising number of couples waiting longer to start a family, and we have a much more challenging reproductive landscape than ever before. In response to this, over the past few decades the biomedical community has evolved to provide assisted reproductive technology (ART), most commonly, in-vitro fertilization (IVF). ART utilizes advanced, high-tech diagnostic tools, surgeries, and pharmacological treatments that, when

successful, yield fast and dramatic results; they’re also quite expensive and can be physiologically and psychologically intense for couples.

2. Control your weight. Whether you’re over or under your ideal weight, even a small loss or gain in body fat can have positive effects on fertility.

In contrast, over thousands of years traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) identifies where elements of our physiology are out of sync or where pathology creates imbalance, and it works to bring them back into harmony using relatively gentle tools like acupuncture and herbal medicine. By achieving this harmony, TCM encourages the body and mind to heal itself naturally. For the vast majority of less severe infertility cases, it provides a time-tested, effective, and far less invasive option. ART and TCM can be used together in a true integrative model.

3. Get high quality nutrition and supplementation. Be sure to fill your plate with organically or locally sourced whole foods, drink enough filtered water, and avoid highly processed or refined foods. When choosing your prenatal supplements, use pharmaceutical grade (which is an even higher quality than organic) or high-quality whole foods brands.

From the perspective of TCM, the preparation for conception is similar for most couples; then with careful diagnosis, we differentiate individual patterns and treatment strategies. Even while consulting a TCM fertility specialist, however, you should allow at least a three-month preparation period before trying to conceive, naturally or with ART, to build health and good habits in both parents. Here are seven preparation strategies for any couple trying to conceive: 1. Understand your menstrual cycle. This is the foundation of a woman’s health and is especially critical in treating infertility. An acupuncturist will want to know the length of the cycle and menstrual flow; the color, quality, and quantity of the blood and cervical mucus; and any other symptoms related to the cycle. A basal body temperature (BBT) chart or app will help both you and your acupuncturist track and regulate your cycle.

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

4. Get daily, moderate exercise. Both too intense and non-existent exercise can be problematic. Often 30 minutes of walking or jogging each day is enough. In addition, mindfulness-based practices like yoga, qi gong, and tai chi are wonderful ways to move the body while reducing stress. 5. Get more sleep. Aiming for at least 7 hours is good, but 8-9 hours is best. You may need to rearrange some of your morning or evening routines to help build this into your day, and if you struggle with insomnia, acupuncture can help. 6. Find ways to manage stress. Things like meditation, visualization, and mindfulness practices help to calm the mind. Other ideas include massage, yoga, acupuncture, spending time in nature, or doing the things you love. 7. Avoid toxins. Try to avoid as many environmental toxins as you can: drink filtered water, eat organic, find ways to purify the air in your home, and reduce toxins in the personal products you use. In addition, avoiding or limiting alcohol, caffeine, and unnecessary medications (always check with your doctor first), while eliminating smoking and recreational drug use, is critical while trying to conceive.

Collectively, these steps used in collaboration with your TCM practitioner and/or your ART doctor will amount to nothing if you haven’t created space in your life for parenthood. Ask yourself: “Do I have the time and energy for a child?” Now is the time to look at your life and make changes to prepare for this new chapter by aligning your thinking and your actions with your desire to bring a child into your world. Tina Grinold, L.Ac, MAOM, is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, and women’s health specialist. She works with women to balance hormones naturally and restore vital health, no matter their stage of life. Tina is thrilled to announce she’s seeing patients in two locations: Balanced Health Center for Integrative Women’s Healthcare in Glastonbury, CT & Able Hands Chiropractic in Tolland, CT. Contact Tina directly for more information or to schedule an appointment: tina@tinagrinold. com; 860 268 2092. See ad on page 15.

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The O-Shot: The Next Generation in Natural Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction By Henry Sobo, MD latelet Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments are becoming a popular option for giving a naturally based, biological boost to the healing process. Platelet cells in our circulation have the natural function of assisting the healing process by the release of biologically active substances, growth and tissue healing factors. Since platelets are utilized in this manner naturally throughout the body, a number of different areas of treatment have arisen as experience with treatments using PRP has grown. Platelet Rich Plasma treatments can be used successfully for female sexual dysfunction, stress incontinence, erectile dysfunction, hair restoration, and arthritis.

The PRP Process Platelet Rich Plasma is produced from your own blood in an office setting. The blood is drawn in the same manner as when you have any general blood tests. The blood is then spun in a centrifuge with the purpose of separating and removing the platelets from the rest of the blood. The remaining blood is centrifuged again, to produce PRP that contains five to seven times the concentration of platelets normally present in the blood. Finally, this PRP with its richer complement of healing and growth factors is then injected back into the body in the area being treated. Because PRP is created directly from a patient’s own blood, neither allergic reactions nor rejection of the platelet cells can occur. This is a safe treatment that can be performed and completed in an office setting in approximately one hour from start to finish. Female Sexuality: The O-Shot and Bladder Incontinence Women’s sexuality difficulties are considerably more common than you might think with over half of women today struggling with some form of sexual dysfunction including: dyspareunia (uncomfortable or painful sex); decreased libido (lack of sex drive); and weak orgasm or difficulty achieving orgasm. Although causes may include psychological and medical reasons, these issues are commonly caused by age-related atrophy of tissue, decreased blood flow and other changes. The O-Shot is a non-surgical, safe and simple procedure that uses the growth factors each woman has in her own body to stimulate vaginal and clitoral rejuvenation. Some women see an immediate increase in sexual desire and pleasure. In some patients, it may take several weeks to months. Results typically last an average of 1218 months or more with one treatment. Occasionally patients may desire a second treatment within 6 to 12 months of initial treatment.

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

One of the greatest benefits of the O-Shot is that many women with urinary incontinence will see a near or complete resolution of symptoms for a long period of time (1 to 4 years) with only one treatment. Male Sexuality: The Priapus Shot (P-Shot) For ED (Erectile Dysfunction) Fifty percent of men between the ages of 35 and 65 will have a problem with erectile dysfunction, or other sexual wellness issues. The P-shot is a medical procedure that can effectively treat erectile dysfunction. Unlike other erectile dysfunction (ED) treatments, the P-shot delivers long-lasting results that you cannot achieve with pills, creams, or other male enhancement procedures. It is especially helpful for men who have lost erectile function due to prostate issues, Peyronie’s Disease treatment, the side effects from prescription drugs, or other medical conditions such as hypertension or diabetes. Each person’s experience may differ, but most men report: • Increased sensation and pleasure • Increased erection and firmness • Increased sexual ability and stamina • Possible improvement in urinary incontinence and prostate issues • Possible enhanced length, girth and appearance • Reduce/remove plaque buildup in Peyronie’s Disease After the P-Shot you can immediately resume normal physical exercise and sexual activity. Hair Restoration PRP Injection Therapy of the scalp helps hair follicles to activate, “wake up” and produce hair again. PRP is most effective in patients that possess functioning hair follicles, but are not keeping up with their hair loss, but will not be effective for those with entirely bald areas where there are no viable hair follicles remaining. For patients with thinning hair, three PRP hair restoration injection treatments are performed 4-6 weeks apart. The results in the activated hair follicles begin to produce a fuller, thicker head of hair. The results may be maintained for as long as 3 years. Keeping your hair as thick as possible over time would be a simple matter of repeating the injection, the timing of which will vary from patient to patient based on individual need and desire. People who suffer with more aggressive hair loss do best with shorter treatment intervals (annually). Because pattern baldness is a dynamic process, periodic assessments are done to determine if any adjustments to your treatment protocol are needed to meet your expectations.

Orthopedics The most well-known of these cutting edge PRP treatments have been in the field of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. This has resulted in significant attention from the media because of its use by the NFL, Major League Baseball, Tiger Woods, and other elite athletes. Interest in PRP is growing in part because traditional treatments for both arthritis and sports-related joint problems are often only marginally effective. Surgery may often be ineffective and can cause complications and further damage. Cortisone shots are effective in reducing pain for short periods of time, but they don’t address the underlying problem and may lead to joint damage if used repeatedly. Physical therapy is very helpful in some cases but ineffective for many. Sometimes not much more than an ice pack and anti-inflammatory medication is all that the patient is left with. More studies are underway to elucidate the benefits and prove the effectiveness of new PRP treatments and to research the best ways to standardize the treatment’s preparation and delivery. Among the conditions successfully treated are: rotator cuff tendinitis/ tears, shoulder joint arthritis, Epicondylitis-Tennis Elbow, Osteoarthritis, ligament tears, Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis and arthritis.

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The #1 Factor in Successful Weight Loss By Frank Aieta, ND and Diane Hayden, PhD o you know what is the number one determining factor in successful weight loss and maintenance? It’s probably not what you think like eating healthy, prepared whole foods and being active with moderate exercise daily. Here’s a hint… The Mayo Clinic Diet published an article entitled, “Social support: A necessity for weight loss.” Joining a support group is the number one thing you can do to ensure successful weight loss! Research is showing that finding support for your weight-loss efforts can mean the difference between success and failure.

A 2010 study in the International Journal of Medical Informatics reported that, “Internet weight loss communities play a prominent role in participants’ weight loss efforts. Social support within Internet weight loss communities merits further evaluation as a weight loss resource for clinicians to recommend to patients. Understanding these communities could improve how health professionals evaluate, build, harness, and manipulate social support for weight loss.” Eighty-eight participants out of 96 reported effective loss of body weight. For this reason, group participation and social support is proving to be an effective method for attaining weight loss for many people. In addition, group support appears to play a role in stress reduction as well. A 2006 study by the USDA showed that dieters who attended weekly support group sessions did not have a significant increase in cortisol, a stress-associated hormone, at the end of the study’s first week, but the unaided dieters did. I had the opportunity to discuss this exciting research with Mary Gello and Marisa Nadeau, two participants in our Solving Your Weight Loss Puzzle 365 monthly support group, which is an adjunct to our ebook, “The Weight Loss Puzzle, Finally Solved.” DH: What was it about this program that you knew was going to be different from any other program you’ve tried? Mary: The group support was a tremendous help; unlike anything I’ve seen in other programs. To know that you’re not alone, that you’re struggling with the same issues as others and hearing their stories, struggles and victories pushes you forward. It makes me feel good and gives me accountability to help and support others and knowing you’re a part of a group effort rather than doing it by yourself. To know someone’s in your corner if you have a question – I’ve loved the access to you and Aimee and Dr. Frank and the ability to go on the Facebook page and get an answer immediately.

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

Marisa: What made it different for me was it was clear that I was going to be given tools and guidance to live a healthy lifestyle and, more importantly, sustain it. It wasn’t a quick-fix weight loss diet program, it was a well-rounded, practical approach to living a healthier lifestyle. Nutrition and exercise are of course key components, but it also included discussions about mindset, stress, sleep, and hormones---all things that factor in weight gain that fad diets don’t address. I could wrap my head around it because it made good sense. DH: How would you describe the program to others? Mary: It’s a lifestyle and a process. The diet (I don’t even like to call it that, because it’s really just a healthy eating plan) is really doable, nothing that’s fad or temporary. For exercise, I’ve always been a “do more” person. Even though I intuitively knew that didn’t work, I learned from you that sometimes we need to step back and not exercise so much. Your body responds so much better this way than exercising 7 days a week. But probably the most important aspect is the education about changing your whole mindset. Most programs don’t deal with that at all – how important it is, what’s going on in our heads that’s stopping us from reaching our goal. Marisa: It’s so easy and perfection is not a requirement! Not that it doesn’t require effort and attention, but it really is a simple straight-forward program that is easy to implement in a busy life. You’ll learn how to balance your metabolism through nutrition and exercise but won’t be boxed into a specific meal plan or exercise plan. You’ll be given the knowledge and tools to figure out what works best for you as an individual. You will have the support of a relatable coach as well as the support of a group of women experiencing the same thing at the same time. Exercise was daunting to me, but the workouts are only 25-30 minutes long (and you can rest!) and you can do them all in the privacy of your own home (selling points for me!). Plus, you have 24/7 access to recipes, instructional exercise videos, and various support materials to help you be successful. DH: What was the best thing that happened to you as a result of doing this program…besides losing the weight!?

Mary: I feel like I already knew what I needed to do to lose weight… but more importantly, doing this program helped me find the confidence to DO IT! Understanding the role my mindset plays and the strategies I’ve learned in dealing with negative self-talk helps me realize I’m not a failure if I make a few mistakes - I know what I have to do, and how to tweak things if I need to make adjustments in my eating or exercise. I don’t feel like I fail anymore because I know this is a process. It’s made me more confident to know that I can maintain this for my whole life. Marisa: A conversation about mindset in the very beginning of the program—fixed vs growth—was a pivotal thing for me. I equate it to a clogged artery. My fixed thoughts about myself were clogging the artery and not allowing a clear passage of thoughts, ideas, self-love or anything else to easily flow through. It was limiting me. Moving to a growth mindset is allowing me to improve, enjoy and open up to many more experiences and opportunities. It’s why I was successful in the program and I believe that it is going to move me forward in so many aspects of my life. Submitted by Dr. Frank Aieta and Dr. Diane Hayden. This is just a sample of what our online monthly support program has in store for you. Please go to weightlosspuzzlesolved.com for more information and updates. See ad on page 40.

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HAPPENINGS

January/February 2017

Sunday, January 1st

Wednesday, January 11th

Wednesday, January 18th

New Year’s Day Meditations with Priscilla Bengtson. 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. or 12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. $10.00 love donation to our Scholarship Fund. Join in this guided meditation which will help you release old beliefs, habits and thought patterns and shift your energy to a new way of being. Space is limited and registration is required. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Healing in Harmony Night. 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. FREE. Participants will sit individually with a healer and receive an 8 – 10 minute healing. No reservation required. You will be served in the order in which you enter the center. The healing services are offered one night each month. The Healing in Harmony Center, Glastonbury. For more information, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Spiritual Book Club with Jen Fitts. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $15.00. Are you the owner of a large library of spiritual books? Each month we’ll cover a specific book and then join in conversation on the topic. Bring your thoughts and ideas and discuss with like-minded individuals everything spiritual. The book for this month is: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, January 8th

Meet your Angels and Guides with Priscilla Bengtson. 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $50.00. During this workshop you will learn about your primary spiritual guides and guardian angels. Through meditation, we will meet them and receive information from them on how they would like to work with you. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

IN-2-IT Kids: Sha Sha Chakras with Lily Holcomb. 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. $35.00. In this workshop, children will gain a basic understanding of what chakras are, where these energy centers are located in their bodies and how to help balance them in fun ways. A short guided meditation is included. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com. Women’s Empowerment Meditation. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. $25.00. 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, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, January 10th Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. $25.00. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls, vibrationally attuned to each energy center, allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com. The Nuts and Bolts of Spirituality: A monthly group for Men with Ken Freschi. 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. $15.00. Ken’s book, Our Walk to Eternity, will be used as a guideline for the group and aid in exploring the human journey and the lessons we are here to learn. Open for all levels of spiritual seekers. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

36 Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg- -January/February January/February2017 2017

Friday, January 13th

Saturday, January 14th Psychic Saturday. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. $25.00 for a 20-minute reading. Receive a private reading to connect you to guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Check the web site for Readers. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, January 15th Integrated Energy Therapy (IET), Basic Level with Dan Lupacchino and Christine Cartwright. 9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. $205.00. Attunement to the Basic IET energy ray that will activate the 1st and 2nd DNA pairs and will empower you to energize and integrate cellular memory blocks; location and use of the IET energy integration power points; introduction to Energy Anatomy and the Cellular Memory Map; increase in your ability to be an energy intuitive and “read” energy. Fully illustrated training guide and certificate provided. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, January 17th Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 7:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. $25.00. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls, vibrationally attuned to each energy center, allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Thursday, January 19th Online Dating and your Intuition (4 part) with Melinda. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $125.00. Are you a woman 35 or older and getting back out in the dating world? Are you looking at online dating and nervous to give it a try? We will come together as a group of likeminded, independent women searching for a meaningful relationship. You will learn to create a great profile while learning how to trust your intuition and common sense in your search. Class meets January 19, 26, February 2, 9. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, January 21st Reiki I with Christine Cartwright. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. $130.00. Participants will learn traditional hand positions, how to give a full body session and receive attunements to the universal Reiki energy for self-healing and healing others. Participants receive a manual, book and certificate. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com. Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. $25.00. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls, vibrationally attuned to each energy center, allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, January 24th What’s your body really telling you? Exploring Nutrition with Priscilla Bengtson. 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $45.00. There are many factors that lead up to physical issues, including what you are eating. Learn about acid vs. alkaline, inflammation, detoxification and the major systems in your body to pay attention to. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, January 25th Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m. $25.00. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls, vibrationally attuned to each energy center, allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com. Home Message Circle. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $20.00. The session is open to anyone who wishes to practice their mediumship message delivery in a group. Your ability doesn’t matter as we are all here to get some practice and learn from each other. A group facilitator will help you stay on track with your message if needed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, January 27th Let’s Journey with Agneta Borstein. 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $45.00. This evening workshop will begin – or continue your Journey to discover a deeper relationship with your Power Animals, Spirit Guides, or Teachers. Spirit will safely guide us to the Lower, Middle or Upper Worlds, certain to attain through the instructions of how to enter a non-ordinary reality, and from the sound of the Drum. Bring a drum or rattle, bandana and a note-book. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, February 3rd So you want to be a Medium? with Priscilla Bengtson. 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $50.00. Participants will learn the differences between mediumship and psychic ability, how to receive messages clearly and how to know who you are working with in the spirit world. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, February 7th

Women’s Empowerment Meditation. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. $25.00. 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, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, February 14th

Healthy Directions: 8 weeks to Healthier Eating with Priscilla Bengtson. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $280.00. This 8-week program provides you with education on how to prepare and eat more alkaline foods. Weekly discussion, food samples, recipes and so much more. See web site for full details. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, February 8th

Saturday, February 18th

Reiki II with Christine Cartwright. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. $160.00. 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, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, February 10th

Mediumship Certificate Program Level I with Priscilla Bengtson. Also Sunday, January 29th. 9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. $375.00 (Financial assistance and payment plan available). Create a system for yourself to work with spirit energies so that you can be accurate every time whether you are using this knowledge for yourself or reading for others. Certificate and manual provided. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.psyche-institute.com.

Merge with Unlimited Powers of the Full Moon Eclipse with Agneta Borstein. 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $45.00. The opposition of the Moon (emotions), and the Sun (power) invite the Circle into a group, as well as a personal healing, relaxing, and fascinating time. Through a meditation, intention, and a journey, you will gain the knowledge for what is in store for you. Agneta will explain the Eclipse patterns, the Moon energies, and you will be benefit in Spiritual as well as Practical ways! The Healing in Harmony Center, Glastonbury. For more information, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, January 31st

Saturday, February 11th

What’s your body really telling you? Exploring Nutrition with Priscilla Bengtson. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. $45.00. There are many factors that lead up to physical issues, including what you are eating. Learn about acid vs. alkaline, inflammation, detoxification and the major systems in your body to pay attention to. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Psychic Saturday. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. $25.00 for a 20-minute reading. Receive a private reading to connect you to guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Check the web site for Readers. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule an appointment, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, January 28th

Sunday, February 12th

Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. $25.00. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls, vibrationally attuned to each energy center, allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com. Introduction to Meditation with Pat McGrath. 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. $100.00. Experience the beneﬁts of practicing silent meditation every day as there is nothing to change, nothing to ﬁx and nothing to get good at. Learn how to quiet the mind, be in the moment and focus on gratitude and loving kindness. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, February 22nd Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m. $25.00. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls, vibrationally attuned to each energy center, allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

www.NaturalNutmeg.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com 37

Home Message Circle. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $20.00. The session is open to anyone who wishes to practice their mediumship message delivery in a group. Your ability doesn’t matter as we are all here to get some practice and learn from each other. A group facilitator will help you stay on track with your message if needed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com. Spiritual Book Club with Jen Fitts. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $15.00. Join us in this new venture of gathering in community to discuss spiritual books. Each month we’ll cover a specific book and then join in conversation on the topic. Bring your thoughts and ideas and discuss with likeminded individuals everything spiritual. Please visit our web site for this month’s book. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, February 24th Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 7:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. $25.00. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls, vibrationally attuned to each energy center, allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. The group is kept small so each person can experience the healing on a personal level. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, February 25th Spiritual Counselor Certificate Program – Foundations with Priscilla Bengtson. Also Sunday, February 26th. 9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 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 earn how to assist people in moving past sticking points in their lives and help them view life from a higher, spiritual perspective. Visit web site for more details. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www. psyche-institute.com.

Sunday, February 26th Dark Phase of The New Moon Eclipse with Agneta Borstein. 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $45.00. The intensified energies from this New Moon Eclipse allow our Inner Essence to be in touch with hidden creative sources, and subconscious thoughts become clearer. Healings occur naturally by surrendering to the Moon and her Wisdom. During a Ritual, and a Journey, the implementation of renewed and clarified results merge into your daily life. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

38 Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg- -January/February January/February2017 2017

ONGOING Mondays Sound Healing Concerts, 6:30-8:00pm, 2nd Monday of each month. These healing events will have a blend of channeled messages, energy work, voice, Alchemy Crystal Bowls, brass bowls and gongs to create the necessary environment to support an evening of transformation. All of these tools will be chosen in advance based on the energetics and the requirements of the group for that evening. Each Concert will be unique and will be an environment full of potential to heal, change and grow on many levels. Fee: $25 Call 860-358-9272 or email info.rondamico@gmail.com to reserve your spot. 595 Main St, 2nd Floor, Portland CT

Tuesdays Cranial Sacral Study Group, 7:00-9:00pm. Joe Belanger, PT, has created this ongoing study group as a way to further support practitioners of cranial technique after their cranial class(es) have finished. This group is designed to answer any questions you may have as well as review, re-learn and practice whatever is helpful to you. No one gets quizzed on what they know or don’t know. The focus is to embody helping someone heal using Cranial Sacral Therapy versus just trying to get rid of their symptoms. Location: Ron D’Amico, LLC, Center for Integrative Healing and Education, 595 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Portland, CT. Fee: $20. To register, call 860.316.5604 or email joeb.pt@snet.net. 595 Main St, 2nd Floor, Portland CT Stiff Neck, Tight Shoulders, Aching Back? Classic Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement Lessons taught by Karen Emerick to relieve your body of stiffness, tight muscles and pain. Please see the description below of The Feldenkrais Method under Wednesday Ongoing Classes for more information. Glastonbury 6-7pm. $15. Drop-ins $20. Register: 860-633—7667

Wednesdays The Feldenkrais Method ®Awareness Through Movement® Classes with Karen Emerick, A powerful way to eliminate stress and pain while dramatically increasing flexibility. Through stress and injury we develop habitually chronic tight muscles and stiff joints leaving us feeling older than we are. Through slow, deceptively simple and ingeniously designed movements done on the floor, these chronic old patterns ingrained in our body melt away, leaving relaxed muscles, improved coordination and balance and an effortless sense of movement. Glastonbury, 10:15am – 11:30am, $15, drop-ins $20. Register: 860-633-7667.

Shamanic Theory- 7:00-8:00 Hosted by Naughty Shaman. Join Nicole Lewis exploring shamanic practices and teachers. You will be able to compare and contrast various methods to develop your unique medicine. A key element of shamanism is honoring those teachers who came before us. You will be exposed to teachers to serve as a launch pad for discussion of shamanic concepts and how they apply to your life. naughtyshaman.com 860-430-1788

Thursdays Energetic Healing Groups, 6:30-8:00pm. Ron D’Amico, Intuitive Healer, Spiritual Guide and Teacher, has created a class for people to experience healing in a group setting. These group healings are created to facilitate healing at the root level, whether physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual/karmic. Group dynamics are very powerful. Ron has created a way of tapping into this potential to channel this energy to increase changes exponentially. Each group is unique and is an expression of the people who attend that evening. Within the experiences you will find this is a journey to the Heart and Soul of you and a way of bringing yourself through your current and past challenges as well as opening doors to your higher potential. Fee: $25 Call 860-358-9272 or email info.rondamico@ gmail.com to reserve your spot. 595 Main St, 2nd Floor, Portland CT

CLASSIFIED Beautiful Office Space, Portland. Integrative healing center looking for holistic practitioners who have their own practice, interested in sharing space with other like-minded professionals. Seeking naturopath, nutritionist, life coach, yoga therapist, acupuncturist, energy healer or other healing modality. Includes waiting room, internet and break room. Also available - 1000 sq ft class room space. Very accessible building, ample parking close to Rte 9 in Middletown area. www.rondamico.net Contact Angela at 860-358-9272 or info.rondamico@gmail.com Workshop/Class Space - Holistic Healing Center in Portland has a large and newly renovated workshop/classroom space available in beautiful 1000sf open well lit room, can seat up to 60 comfortably, also good for Yoga/Tai Chi type classes, call Angela at 860-358-9272 or email angela.rondamico@gmail.com. www.rondamico.net

RESOURCES ACUPUNCTURE Acupuncture of Greater Hartford Stan Baker, LAC 645 Farmington Ave, Hartford, CT 06105 860.836.1068 •.acupuncturestanbaker.com See ad on page 40. Valley Spirit Acupuncture Jampa Mackenzie Stewart, MSOM, L.Ac. Board Certified in Acupuncture 6 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot CT 860.619.2788 • ValleySpiritAcupuncture.com See ad on page 17.

DENTISTRY Livingstone Dental Excellence Dr. Thomas Livingstone 3 Railroad St. North Canaan, CT 860.824.0751 • livingstonedentalexcellence.com See ad on page 35. Dr. Steven Hinchey 2249 New London Turnpike South Glastonbury, CT. (860) 633-6518 www.dentistryfordiabetics.com/drhinchey See ad on page 20.

FINANCIAL PLANNING Conscious Capital Wealth Management, LLC Lawrence Ford 381 Hubbard St. ste. 300, Glastonbury, CT 06033 (860) 6598299 • Lford@consciouscapitalwm.com www.consciouscapitalwm.com See ad on page 41.

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 7.

HOLISTIC CENTERS Integrative Wellness and Physical Therapy 34 Jerome Ave, Suite 305 Bloomfield, CT 06002 (860) 519-1916 info@IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com See ads on page 17 and 23. Naughty Shaman Center for Shamanic Arts 2450 Main Street Glastonbury, CT 06232 naughtyshaman.com 860-430-1788. See ad on page 27. Ron D’Amico, LLC Center for Integrative Healing and Education 595 Main St., 2nd Floor, Portland, CT 860-358-9272 info@rondamico@gmail.com www.rondamico.net See ad on page 18.

HYPNOSIS

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir. 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. (203)595-0110 • mindbodytransformation.com See ad on page 18.

CT Natural Health Specialists Dr. Lauren Young, Dr. Ashley Burkman, Dr. Tonya Pasternak and Dr Craig Fasullo 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 (860) 533-0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com See ad on page 23.

Mind Matters Hypnosis Center Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BCI Board Certified Hypnotist & Instructor 12 Waterside Court, Avon, CT 06001 (860)693-6448 • MindMatters@comcast.net www.mindmattershypnosis.com See ad on page 20.

Debra Gibson, ND 100 Danbury Road, Ste. 102 Ridgefield, CT 06877 • (203)431-4443 See ad on page 29.

Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH 267 William Street, Middletown, CT 06457 860-704-9054 • mprousseau@sbcglobal.net www.micheleprousseau.com

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

INTEGRATED MEDICINE

Stacey Munro, N.D. Nature’s Helper Medical Clinic 178 Mountain Road, Suffield, CT 06078 860.758.7808 • www.natureshelpermedical.com

ProNatural Physicians Group 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 (860) 829-0707 www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 7. Tamara Sachs, MD Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt Street, New Milford CT 860-354-3304 • www.tsachsmd.com See ad on page 15.

INTEGRATIVE APRN’S/ NURSE PRACTITIONERS

The Wellness Institute Marvin Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT (203) 847-2788 See ad on page 41. West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine Frank Aieta, ND 301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT (860) 232-9662 • www.DRAIETA.com See ad on page 18.

ProNatural Physicians Group Lara O’Neil, Pediatric APRN Amanda Swan, Adult/Women’s Health APRN 120 Webster Square Road Berlin, CT 06037 • 860-829-0707 ProNaturalPhysicians@comcast.net See ad on page 7

ProNatural Physicians Group Dr. Ann Aresco, Dr. Ann Aresco, Dr. Summer McAllister, Dr. Sarah Zambarano 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 P: 860-829-0707 - F: 860-829-0606 E: ProNaturalPhysicians@comcast.net www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 7.

MASSAGE

NUTRITION

Elisabeth Moss 12 Old Farms Rd, Avon, CT 06001 860.550.0882 www.elisabethmoss.com elisabethmossart@gmail.com

Holcare Nutrition Vicki Kobliner MS RD 3 Hollyhock Lane, Suite 2A, Wilton, CT 06897 203-834-9949 • www.holcarenutrition.com See ads on page 28.

Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot CT 860.619.2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com See ad on page 17.

MEDITATION Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot CT 860.619.2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com See ad on page 17.

Holly Niles, MS, CNS, LDN Licensed Functional Medicine Clinical Nutritionist Integrative Wellness 34 Jerome Avenue, Suite 305 Bloomfield, CT 06002 (860)519-1916 HollyNiles@IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com www.IntegrativeWellnessAndPT.com See ads on page 17 and 23.

PHYSICIANS, M.D. Natural Health & Healing, LLC Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 61 S. Main St, Ste 210, West Hartford, CT (860) 677-4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net See ad on back cover.

www.NaturalNutmeg.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com 39

RESOURCES Optimal Health Medical, LLC Henry C. Sobo, M.D. 111 High Ridge Rd. ,Stamford, CT 06905 203-348-8805 • www.drsobo.com Tamara Sachs, MD Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt Street, New Milford CT 860-354-3304 • www.tsachsmd.com See ad on page 15.

PSYCHIATRY David London, MD 567 Vauxhall St. Ext. #218, Waterford, CT (860) 443-5822 - davidlondonmd.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY Inner Change Holistic Counseling Deni Weber, MA, LPC, DCEP Weston, CT. • 203-544-6094 DeniWeber.com

SCHOOLS Dharma School - Energy Healing Certificate Naughty Shaman Center for Shamanic Arts 2450 Main Street Glastonbury, CT 06232 naughtyshaman.com 860-430-1788. See ad on page 27.

SKINCARE Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center Melissa Martin, 16A Ensign Drive, Avon. (860)284-9730 • www.anewyouskincare.net Melissa@anewyouskincare.net See ad on page 29.

Acupuncture Experienced Care for Difficult Cases

TAI CHI/QIGONG Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot CT 860.619.2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com See ad on page 17.

THERMOGRAPHY Sophia Natural Health Center 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield, CT 06804. (203) 740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com

YOGA / PILATES CENTERS Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot CT 860.619.2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com See ad on page 17. West Hartford Yoga 23 Brook Street, West Hartford, CT 06110 PH: 860.953.9642 • www.westhartfordyoga.com info@westhartfordyoga.com www.westhartfordyoga.com Offering 70 weekly classes. See ad on inside front cover.

The Weight Loss Puzzle, Finally Solved!

Stan Baker, LAC

With 30 years experience in the Oriental Healing Arts, Stan utilizes the major modalities of Chinese Medicine.

Call 860.836.1068 TODAY Acupuncture of Greater Hartford 645 Farmington Ave, Hartford acupuncturestanbaker.com

The Power of the Perfect (For You) Diet In Your Hands Written by Drs. Frank Aieta and Diane Hayden to help you hone in on your specific problems by creating a diet plan you love and want to live with without expensive doctor visits and by putting all the knowledge you need in your hands. What this book does: • Deciphers the culprits that are blocking your progress so you can reach the balance YOUR body needs to drop fat, raise energy levels, and handle stress like a leader • Allows you to piece your own puzzle together without expensive doctor visits that insurance doesn’t cover anyway • Illustrates the “how” in making your mind, your habits, and your food work together to create a body that yearns to jog along the beach or climb the mountains • Hands you completely within-reach actions that you’ll use to begin a new love story with your body

Your Ultimate Guide to Permanent Weight Loss and Achieving Optimal Health Buy for $14.95 at http://weightlosspuzzlesolved.com/

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

“I am no longer a diabetic, have normal blood pressure and plan on continuing my present lifestyle forever. 9 months ago when I first saw Dr. Aieta I was a 49 year old man who felt 80, now I’m a 49 year old man that feels 29.... I just can’t understand why the so called expert in the field of diabetes (my endocrinologist) had no clue how to treat me, he just knew how to put me on more useless medication instead of getting to the root of the problem like Dr. A.” ~Marcus C.

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 Yoga Alliance 200 & 500 Hour Teacher Training Yoga Therapy Workshops

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Priscilla Bengtson 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury healinginharmonycenter.com

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BERNIE

By Bernie Siegel, MD

You Are Here to Live and Learn

f you could be God for a day why would you want the opportunity? Now most people answer if they could be God they would change and fix things to make the world a better place with fewer afflictions. I am sorry to say that, that is not the right answer. When I confronted God with the problem I had as a doctor watching all the suffering He made it clear that the reason for being God for a day was not to fix things but to understand why. His actual words were, “A perfect world is a magic trick. It is not creation. You are here to live and learn.”

The answer tells us what makes our lives meaningful. When we show compassion to another human being it means something. It really works to say, “I love you,” to someone when they are screaming at you for taking their parking space or some other meaningless thing. They don’t know what to do with you when you express your love instead of screaming at them. Try it tomorrow and let me know what happens. In one extreme case a woman had a guy with a ski mask on grab her purse. She said to him, “I know behind that mask is someone I could love.” He dropped her purse and ran away. Years later a man came up to her to thank her for what she had done for him. It was the guy who grabbed her purse. Yes, I read the headlines about the killings and suicides and they are due to indifference and rejection being shown to people, especially as children, rather than love. With rejection come anger, rage, revenge and then guilt. So murder and suicide become the final events. Your love could stop that and help people to be reparented. So be a grand parent or a great grand parent now and don’t wait for the next generation to benefit from your love. Now let me lighten up the column and give you some help which is easily accessible. I want you all to be able to have my angel assist you when you are having difficulties. I will tell you his name so you can call it out in times of dire need. After being involved in several serious accidents such as my car being totaled twice by people going through red lights, choking on a toy as a child, falling off the roof of our house when the top rung of the ladder snapped off and recently falling off my bike when I hit some black ice on the road and always walking away with no serious injuries I announced one night during a lecture that I must have an angel.

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017

A man came up after my lecture and said, “You do have an angel and I know his name.” “Really, what is it?” “What did you say when the ladder broke?” “Oh, Shit!” “That’s his name.” I do not know who that guy was but he gave me a great gift. Because when I skidded on the ice I called out my angel’s name before I hit the ground and was laughing and so totally relaxed that I was barely bruised at all. So when in trouble just call out his name. The only condition is that it really must be a passionate call from your heart. The other day I was stuck on the parkway on my way to give a lecture and I called out his name and he got the State Trooper to wave the traffic ahead and I made it on time. Sometimes he’ll give you a spiritual flat tire too. Then you get to the airport late and miss a plane that crashes. So keep your sense of humor and when you don’t know what to do…laugh. It heals and protects your body. Studies show that cancer patients with a sense of humor who laugh more even when nothing funny is happening, live longer. So take some laugh time today and watch what happens to the people around you when they hear you laughing. For many, Dr. Bernard Siegel-or Bernie, as he prefers to becalledneeds no introduction. He has touched many lives all overthe Planet. In 1978, he reached a national and then international audience when he began talking about patient empowerment and the choice to live fully and die in peace. As a physician who has cared for and counseled innumerable people whose mortality has been threatened by illness, Bernie embraces a philosophy of living and dying that stands at the forefront of the medical ethics and spiritual issues our Society grapples with today. Read Bernie’s regular blog posts on his website where you will also find his books, articles, and CDs: http://www. berniesiegelmd.com. Bernie currently holds a cancer support group the second and fourth Tuesday evenings of the month 1:30-3:30PM at Coachman’s Square at 21 Bradley Road, Woodbridge. If interested contact Lucille Ranciato: lranciato2@yahoo.com 203 288 2839; or Bernie: bugsyssiegel@sbcglobal.net. You can find Bernie’s books ad CDs at Wisdom of the Ages in Simsbury, Ct. See ad on page 33.

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Contact one of our Marketing Reps TODAY for Special Advertising Rates In Fairﬁeld County: Call Alicia: 203.918.6323 Email: Alicia@NaturalNutmeg.com

In Hartford County: Call David: 860.707.6014 Email: David@NaturalNutmeg.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com

Deanna Cherrone, M.D.

Internal Medicine Functional Medicine practitioner

“Do you believe you should feel better than you do?” I help restore balance so that you can look, feel and function your best. Areas of Focus: • Adrenal Fatigue • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy • Bone Loss • Detoxification • Food Sensitivities • Heavy Metal Testing & Oral Chelation • Leaky gut • Menopause & Andropause • Mind Body Medicine

Many of my patients are simply looking for someone who will listen.

Functional Medicine explores the root cause symptoms: Fatigue • Brain Fog • Sugar Cravings • Headaches • Depression • Stress & Anxiety • Decreased Libido • Aches & Pains • Decreased Stamina • Constipation • Allergies • Inability to Lose Weight • Insomnia Dr. Cherrone, founder of Natural Health & Healing, provides Functional Medicine with emphasis on patient education and self care for optimal health.

CALL DR. CHERRONE TODAY AT (860) 677-4600

• Neurotransmitter Testing • Nutritional & Lifestyle Counseling • Thyroid • Weight Loss

61 S. Main St., West Hartford, CT • www.naturalhealthandhealing.net

Natural Nutmeg - January/February 2017