Natural Nutmeg March 2020

March 2020

Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Essential Living

The Critical Functions of the Gut Microbiome Katy Firisin, ND

Assertiveness 101: It’s Ok to Say “No” Sonia V. Manganello, DM, DD, CNC

The Fragility of Life James W. Osborne, MS, LPC, BCPC

Heal Your Gut to Beat Disease and Achieve Your Ideal Weight Brigitta Jansen, MS, CDN

Using Nutrition to Combat Alcohol Abuse & Dependence

Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®

CBD Therapy: Just The Facts Nick Edgerton, ND, LAc

Celebrating 14 Years of Publishing www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Did You Know Your Dentist Can Help LOWER YOUR RISK For: HEART ATTACK, STROKE, DIABETES, and ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

112 Deming Street South Windsor, CT 06074 2

Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

No Dental Insurance?

No Problem!

Call Heather or Katie at (860) 640-4447

Information at: SouthWindsorSmiles.com/savings

THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE

Non-profit 501 (C) (3)

Nutrition Specialists Trusted Since 1956 Relax In Our New Parkade Health Lounge!

• Locally Prepared Meals • Fresh Organic Fruit/Salads • Cold Beverages/Energy Drinks • FREE WiFi & Charging Stations • Comfy Chairs & Dining Counter • Educational Chats • Local Artist Exhibits

Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe 378 West Middle Turnpike, Manchester, CT Mon - Sat 9am - 8pm / Sun 11am - 6pm 860.646.8178 • www.cthealthshop.com @parkadehealthshoppe

@manchesterparkadehealthshoppe

Shop here. Feel better.

203.438.5795 • RIDGEFIELDPLAYHOUSE.ORG

• • • • • • •

• • • •

THE SPA IS THE PLACE TO BE You can book an appointment and buy gift omsoma.com

Phone 860.678.7880 • Text 860.712.1762 www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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PUBLISHER'SLETTER

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have come to realize that anything worthwhile in life requires time, patience and persistence. Patience is indeed a gift. It helps us to deal with frustrations and failures without losing our vision or becoming irritated and depressed. It helps us reduce stress and maintain a sense of calmness when we encounter unexpected situations that upset our schedule or require us to wait for something. These situations give us an opportunity to practice disciplined patience.

Unfortunately, in our society today, we are accustomed to instant gratification and we demand it. We are used to getting what we want, how we want it, where we want it, instantaneously. We have high speed internet, instant messaging, movies on demand and online shopping. We have 24-hour grocery stores and dry cleaners that deliver directly to our door. It’s no wonder why we expect whatever we want to materialize instantly. There’s actually a term for this now called Instant Gratification Syndrome, or IGS, and it is a debilitating disease characterized by emotional servitude to the Now. I’m seeing this more and more with businesses expecting immediate results from an advertisement. The problem is people don’t make split second decisions about healthcare. They need time to get to know a practitioner and build trust that this person is truly going to help them.

When there is no time to wait and be patient, there is often no time to think, to connect to other people at deep levels, or to create lasting memories. Emotional and spiritual maturity requires patience. In the absence of patience there is impatience and when impatience rules immaturity follows. Impatience can easily grow into anger, irritability, harsh words and unpleasantness towards others. Typically, most fights start with impatience over little annoyances or inconveniences.

We will experience much more success when we are patient with ourselves and others. Think of it as an opportunity to reflect on where you are now and how far you have come. Sometimes we find that situations that require us to be patient are invaluable opportunities to realize that we are on the right path or the wrong path. It is a chance to take a step back and make changes to ensure we are on the right path before we reach our destination and realize that we really don’t want to be where we ended up.

Examining nature is a great way to observe patience. It takes time for things to grow, mature and reproduce. You don't see nature struggling against the natural course of time to speed things up. It is a beautiful unfolding of things occurring exactly when they are supposed to. What things in your life are you finding that you’re lacking patience with? Are you expecting too much too soon? Take some time in nature to slow down, relax and know that everything will happen exactly when it should.

In Health and Happiness,

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ur mission is to provide valuable insight, information and resources that will allow our readers to maintain a healthy, active, sustainable lifestyle. Natural Nutmeg contains timely information on natural health, complementary and alternative medicine, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

PUBLISHER Dr. Diane Hayden Diane@naturalnutmeg.com ADVERTISING advertising@naturalnutmeg.com DIR. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Christopher Urso Curso@naturalnutmeg.com MARKETING DIRECTORS Frances Wall Higgins frances@naturalnutmeg.com Heather Zundel heather@naturalnutmeg.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashley Frament layout@naturalnutmeg.com ADVISORY BOARD Ann Aresco, ND Adam Breiner, ND Mark Breiner, DDS Deanna M. Cherrone, MD Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N. (Pend.)

Debra Gibson, ND Kenneth Hoffman, LAc, CCH Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N Lauren Young, ND DISTRIBUTION Greater Hartford and surrounding counties, please contact Natural Nutmeg.

FFC - Tom Cossuto, Man In Motion, LLC

A big Thank You to our wonderful writers and advertisers who make this free resource possible!

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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. © 2007-20 by Natural Nutmeg, LLC. All rights reserved.

Parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that permission be obtained in writing. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the ar ticles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and ser vices adver tised. We welcome your feedback.

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Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

In This Issue 15

Creating Happy Memories for Dementia Patients and Loved Ones Neil Anand, Owner,

16 17 19 21 23 25

ComForCare Home Care

Go with Your Gut! Gina Barbetta MS, RD, CD-N

Retirement Planning: Four Tax Changes You Need to Know

In Every Issue 26 29 31 32

Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, MBA, AWMA®

Get Your “Slinky” Back: Get Rolfed

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The Critical Functions of the Gut Microbiome Katy Firisin, ND

CBD Therapy: Just The Facts Reflexology: An Ancient Healing Art for Today’s Stresses Lori Massey, CRT

Heal Your Gut to Beat Disease and Achieve Your Ideal Weight Brigitta Jansen, MS, CDN

Assertiveness 101: It’s Ok to Say “No”

Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®

The Fragility of Life James W. Osborne, MS, LPC, BCPC

A Microbiome Reset to Transform Your Weight and Health Derrick Schull, ND

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NUTMEG NUGGETS

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HAPPENINGS

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RESOURCES

43

DR.DI'S CORNER

Using Nutrition to Combat Alcohol Abuse & Dependence Erika Dworkin,

37

THE BUZZ

Nick Edgerton, ND, LAc

Sharon Sklar, Certified Advanced Rolfer

Sonia V. Manganello, DM, DD, CNC

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Restaurants Keeping It Real: flora: plant food + drink Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC

The Future is “Leading Up”!

Sandi Coyne-Gilbert, MBA DM MS Organizational Leadership Program

Find more articles and

Director, Goodwin University

search our web archive at naturalnutmeg.com

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

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April • Effects of Diet & Environment on Autoimmune Disease • CBD Therapy for Chronic Disease May/June • Women’s/Men’s Health • Treatment for Lyme Disease July/August • Managing Stress & Anxiety in Children • Aging Gracefully

September • The Natural Home • Natural Treatments for Chronic Pain October • Natural Treatments for Cancer • Mindfulness & Self-Care November/December • The Epidemic of Diabesity • Brain Health 2020 10BEST/ Essential Living Guide • Stress Reduction • Sleep Optimization

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

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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THE BUZZ Mind Matters Hypnosis Center Announces New Owner Calypso Portugaels

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Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe Opens New Health Lounge

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t the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe, we’re super excited to introduce our Parkade Health Lounge! Our cozy lounge features comfy chairs, a counter for working or enjoying healthy morsels, charging stations, and FREE WiFi. You’ll also find fresh organic salads and fruit, fabulous prepared meals and snacks from local suppliers, and a great variety of cold beverages. Look for our upcoming educational Lounge Chats and creative exhibits by local artists.

Operating since 1956 as one of the largest independent, family-owned health food stores in the Greater Hartford area, Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe offers a unique opportunity for learning and achieving optimal wellness. Our mission is to educate our customers about nutrition and healthy lifestyle options, and offer an abundance of affordable dietary supplements; organic produce; frozen, refrigerated, and packaged food items; and other products to help improve quality of life and longevity. During your full-service shopping experience, you can expect to receive caring, personalized customer service from knowledgeable staff and cutting-edge information.

Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe, 378 Middle Turnpike West, Manchester, CT. 860.646.8178. www.cthealthshop.com. Nutrition Specialists Trusted Since 1956. Making Your Health Lifestyle Affordable. Shop here. Feel better. M-SAT 9am-8pm / SUN 11am-6pm.

Owner Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition, speaks to groups and offers private consultations. See ad on page 3.

fter almost 20 years in practice, Lisa Zaccheo has decided to retire, and has passed the leadership of the practice to her protégé Calypso Portugaels. Calypso has been studying the mind/body connection for decades with the best teachers from around the world, so she’s Lisa’s perfect replacement. Lisa explained, “My goal in this transition was to find someone even better than myself in regards to the art of hypnosis and practice leadership. I’ve found just that with Calypso."

This transition has been in process for almost a year now so you’re guaranteed the same high-quality services you’ve come to expect from Mind Matters. Our team of experienced hypnotists are trained to help with every imaginable issue; from weight release, phobias, sleep issues, goal setting, smoking cessation, self-esteem and stress relief to name a few. At the center, we are always working to be on the cutting edge of hypnosis with a beautiful blend of science and heart. We’ve recently opened an office in New York City and with our locations in Guilford and West Hartford, this makes up the largest hypnosis center in the Northeast. We have also added services in French, and are developing new ways to work with clients remotely so location is no longer a barrier.

Whatever your challenge, we are here to help. Whatever your goal is, you are not alone, you will be welcomed in a judgement free, result driven environment and we will be with you every step of your journey.

Please call 860.693.6448 to schedule. mindmattershypnosis.com

Natures Gifts Exclusively Dedicated to CBD Products

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BD with its promise as a safe natural and holistic approach to managing a range of health issues has taken the country by storm these last 14 months. Our mission at Natures Gifts is to provide access to quality CBD through education and reasonable pricing. With around 40 different CBD products, Natures Gifts has one of the largest offerings in Avon.

As a small independent CBD store, Natures Gifts does not have high franchise fees, is direct to the manufacturers and passes all that savings on to the customer. We are not locked into a single brand and unlike gas station CBD we know how and where our products are manufactured. Our friendly knowledgeable staff helps customers navigate the selection to the perfect product. We carry premium local brand Warner’s Best and national brands Medical Mary and Montel Williams. Natures Gifts also carries products specifically designed for pets. These can be helpful for stress and anxiety, noise phobias, and mobility issues as they age.

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Visit us at 304 West Main Street in Avon to explore the great selection of topicals, beauty and personal care products, no mess no guess capsules, edibles like gummies, honey sticks, coffee, green foods and our fantastic CBD oil with strengths from 500-3000mg. Open since Dec 2019, www.naturesgifts-usa.com. See ad on page 7.

Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

JustBe_NatNutmeg_Ad2020.indd 1

2/2/20 11:35 AM

THE BUZZ Services for Spiritual Growth and Personal Discovery

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The Red Barn in Durham: New Earth Holistic Therapies & Art Center Wellness Fair

ome spend the day at the Red Barn in Durham for our first wellness fair of 2020 on Sunday, March 15th from 12–5pm.

Want to receive a treatment? Our experienced practitioners are available. What about a psychic reading? Visit with our psychics in the Sanctuary. Our readers are well vetted, highly skilled and sought out by many in the region! Our vendors are a variety of local artisans and wellness professionals with services and goods for sale. $5 entrance fee or enter for free with a can of food for the Durham Food Bank.

The Red Barn holds Wellness Fairs quarterly. It is an open house, an opportunity to come and meet our practitioners. What sets us apart from other Wellness Centers is the concept of the New Earth. We understand times are changing, the world now desperately needs collaboration, integrity, humility and work toward a common goal of wellness, the betterment and healing of ourselves and the Earth. New to The Barn is the Art Center located on the ground level in the back of The Barn. We are now vetting art teachers for classes. Also located in the Art Center is a meditation room that can be used to get into a creative mode before taking a class. Check out our Facebook page: Art at The Red Barn.

The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main Street, Durham, CT. 860.559.6151 theredbarnindurham.com. Come visit our experienced practitioners who work collaboratively in service for the community with ONE HEART. Our practitioners include licensed psychotherapists, a dietitian-nutritionist, artists, massage therapists, energy healers and much more. All SHARING IN THE SAME VISION. For additional information, contact the Founder & Director, Janice Juliano, MSW, LCSW at 860.559.6151.

ffering services in Spiritual direction; Crystal Dreaming; and Crystal, Light and Color therapy, Rev. Lauri Ingram’s offerings are a unique combination of services to companion you on your journey of life. Ordained at One Spirit Interfaith Seminary in New York City in 2019, and currently enrolled in their Interspiritual Counseling program, Lauri brings a perspective of someone who balances a lengthy corporate business career, with many years of deep, spiritual searching. Lauri guides her clients through the most difficult of life’s questions with love, compassion and ease, always confident that the divine is speaking to each of us in every moment and we are all on a journey of a lifetime.

Offering various services and workshops, Lauri offers opportunities for spacious reflection, spiritual exploration and energy balancing. Services include: Spiritual direction: Explore your relationship with the divine, and deepen your connection to your inner spirit through spiritual direction. Available by phone, in person or via zoom.

Life Ceremonies: Designed just for you, Rev. Lauri offers wedding officiant services, as well as Memorial Services, Baby Naming and blessings and can custom create a ceremony for various life events and milestones.

Crystal Dreaming and Etheric Crystal, Light and Color Energy Balancing: Using the energetic power of crystals, these therapies balance your energy centers and bring you on a journey connecting you with your higher self and often receiving answers to the questions important to you right now.

Lauri is expanding her offerings in 2020 to include art modalities, including art journaling and mandala exploration. You can find out more about her services at www.lauriingram.com. Her office is located at 3490 Whitney Avenue, Suite 205 in Hamden and she can be reached at 203.435.5650.

CT’s Premier CBD Store

Natures Gifts Say goodbye to inflammation based pain

Pain Creams | Tinctures | Gummies Beauty & Care Products | Pet Products A little something for everyone!

intuitive readings  angel therapy®  medical intuition

energy healing  sound healing workshops certificate programs Priscilla Bengtson 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury healinginharmonycenter.com  860.430.9801

Your Friendly Neighborhood CBD Store Across from Marshalls Plaza 304 West Main Street, Avon CT

Mon-Sat 10-6 Sun 10-5

www.NaturesGifts-USA.com |

860-995-4444

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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THE BUZZ Bernard Ilsley at The Ridgefield Playhouse March 31st

James Osborne, MS, LPC Opens New Office in Kensington

ake contact with departed loved ones, consult ancient spirits and angels about the future and learn about past lives when third generation psychic, Bernard Ilsley: The London Medium returns to The Ridgefield Playhouse on Tuesday, March 31 at 7:30pm, part of Hearst Media Entertaining Conversation Series and Adam Broderick Salon & Spa Whole New You Series with support from Reliance Merchant Services. One of the most gifted psychics of this century, Ilsley has been a trusted adviser to Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant for many years.

ames is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 40 years of experience as a psychotherapist, clinical director, clinical supervisor, trainer and consultant.

He is trained in Gestalt Therapy, Jungian Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and EMDR. James treats trauma, co-occurring disorders, loss/grief, anger management, substance abuse and depression, as well as, chronic and severe mental health disorders. He works with families and individuals with intellectual/developmental disorders.

He uses mindfulness-based interventions for persons with disabilities and their caregivers and develops positive behavioral support plans. He uses value-based strategies unique to the person in order to help facilitate change. James has extensive experience working with veterans, active duty personnel and their families. He has been named a Natural Nutmeg 10 Best Award Winner in Holistic Psychotherapy/LCSW/Counseling for the past two years.

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Bernard Ilsley is a third-generation psychic. He works with spirit guides and he is able to consult each different spirit guide depending on which specialized subject he is working on for the individual consulting him. His first connection with his spirit guides occurred when he was eight years old. While painting an egg, he found he could tune out to tune in and his spirit guide painted an ancient Chinese pattern. He joined a development circle in his late teens, run by his grandmother, herself a medium by the name of Edith Cole, well known in the media and often appearing in newspapers and on BBC radio.

Bernard’s grandfather, Edward Cole, sat in circles and studied spiritual philosophy for over fifty years, influencing the young Bernard, in his formative years. Bernard went on to sell out a theater and town hall tour at the age of twenty-three. He has also performed mantras and meditations on stage, teaching and lecturing on spiritual philosophy throughout the world. His recordings now play on every continent in the world.

For tickets ($45-$340), call or visit the box office, 203-438-5795 or go online at ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a non-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield. https://ridgefieldplayhouse.org https:// www.facebook.com/ridgefieldplayhouse/. See ad on page 3.

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

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

Call today for a consultation!

860-837-1588 www.autumntideherbalwellness.com Enfield, Connecticut 8

Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

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James Osborne, MS, LPC is now located at 363 New Britain Road (Laurel Plaza) Kensington. He can be contacted at 860.384.4971 or at JWOsborne.MS.LPC@gmail.com. See ad on page 28.

Your CBD Store® Empowers You Through Education & Better Quality Life

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our CBD stores were founded by Rachel Quinn, whose search of a better quality of life due to Crohn's disease led her to where we are today. Rachel decided that she not only wanted to offer high quality hemp oil extract, but desired to create a space that also offered education in an unregulated industry. She believed in empowering others through education and the hope of a better-quality life.

To date, Your CBD stores have grown to over 600 locations nationwide and internationally, have won several awards, are highly trusted and respected, and recognized as the benchmark in quality and industry standards. Your CBD stores are a bio-plant science company working with top Universities across the nation, and a boutique style educational provider. As an exclusive company, Your CBD stores own their own fields, are dual thirdparty tested, provide lab reports for all products and rely on CO2 critical extraction method.

Exclusively retailing their very own SunMed CBD-rich hemp oil extracts allows them to maintain high quality and consistency.

They offer holistic alternatives "without the high" and education on the Endocannabinoid system. When you walk into a store, you’ll receive individual consultation to pair you with your ideal product.

Educational sessions and events are hosted in the Manchester location. Sign up by calling 860.791.8368, or RSVP to events on Facebook. Contact Rebekah (Manager, Marketing). Located at 59 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester. Facebook @yourcbdstoremanchesterct Email: manchester465@cbdrx4u.com. See ad on page 30.

THE BUZZ The Power of Plants

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ver the past few years I have been asked and have even debated over the power of plants to have the potency and power to cause significant skin rejuvenation. Think about the power of 3 types of plants in a very negative way first. If you touch these plants or in some cases just brush up against them you will look like you belong in a horror movie and it can cause the most severe, aggravating symptoms of almost anything you’ve ever had in your life. You may even need a trip to your doctor for help. What kind of powerful compound is found in Poison ivy, Poison oak and Poison sumac which could destroy your skin? All three plants contain the same rashtriggering plant oil called urushiol (pronounced yoo-ROO-sheeall). It has the power to create mild to severe reactions. Pretty powerful for “just a plant” wouldn’t you say?

Now let’s look at the power of plants in a completely positive way. Certain plant extracts and seed extracts can affect your appearance and your health in the most beautiful way imaginable. It’s a serious science. Also, all the different chemicals, synthetics and other toxins found in many of today’s face creams can be very damaging in the same way but over a slower amount of time. The positive power of plant extracts and compounds is very potent and life changing not just for your face but for your entire well being because most of what we apply to our skin (our largest organ) gets absorbed into the blood stream and circulates all through your organs and biological mechanisms down to the cellular level. As you now realize, nothing comes close to the power of certain plants, berries, and seed oils. When these plants, seed extracts and the compounds are incorporated in a special skin cream, the results can be amazing.

When you apply Immortal Opulence skin cream, the powerful plant extracts are safe to use and precision balanced in order for the compounds to activate in a positive way, fully addressing the signs of aging and rejuvenating your skin to optimal levels.

Yes, it’s a serious science but when applied properly you get all the positives and none of the dangerous negatives. To see a complete list of our ingredients, visit www.immortalopulence.com.

Get a Free bottle of our bio-active Immortal-C Skin Serum with every purchase. Normally sells for $70 dollars. Immortal Opulence makes a great gift for that special someone…including you.

Just Be: Connecticut’s First Personalized Self-Care Retreat Opens in Spring

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o you struggle to take time for yourself and give your busy life a pause? Just Be is opening early spring on the East Hartford Glastonbury line to be your local sanctuary for self-care. Come in and awaken your senses through a myriad of services all personalized and catered especially for your specific needs to restore, replenish and renew. Over 2800 sq ft to include: • CT’s only infusion foot soak bar with herbalist designed formulas to address the common needs • Infrared and Salt therapy in our “Fire room” Sauna to detox your body and refresh • The Reflection room where you can surrender yourself to light therapy, crystal amethyst biomat therapy or simply the bliss to Just Be, in a setting uniquely designed for full relaxation • Delight yourself with organic, locally sourced teas and enjoy the time and space we all crave to unwind and look within • Enlighten yourself through an engaging, rotating calendar of events and workshops • Connect yourself with the local wellness community of like-minded individuals with the option of professionally designed wellness treatment rooms open for hourly rentals Our vision for Just Be is to offer as many unique healing services, enlightenment opportunities and community connections as you need to continue your self-care journey.

Liz Kametz holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and MS in Systems Engineering and is trained in Change Management and Lean/Six Sigma. Her vision of Just Be came from her own lack of self-care and the recognition that the epidemic of chronic stress is real and needs to be addressed. Adrienne Gervais holds a BA in Political Science, is a certified Master Energy Therapist and is currently completing a Master’s degree in Integrative Health and Holistic Healing. Just Be is located at 36 Main Street in East Hartford. justbethejourney.com info@justbethejourney.com. See ad on page 6.

Wolfspirit Acupuncture Ancient Healing with a Modern Approach

Richard Fanelli is an obsessive researcher in holistic health and the Founder and Formulator of Immortal Opulence Skin Cream. Immortal Opulence is hand-crafted at the Red Barn Holistic Arts Center in Durham, CT. See ad on page 20 and 36.

Acupuncture can effectively:

JO-ANN CONNELLY, M.S., RN, LAC

Monthly Wellness treatment to improve immunity and restore balance available

• Relieve pain without the harmful side effects of medication.

• Assist with restoring balance and improved fertility.

• Relieve digestive disorders.

• Help manage anxiety & depression.

• Help quit smoking.

Come see our Acupuncture Community Clinic

Jo-Ann is certified in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture

Call 860.430.9653

78 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury, Connecticut

www.wolfspiritacupuncture.com

www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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THE BUZZ

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Achieve Optimal Health with The Ayurveda Diet & Nariveda Ayurveda Supplements

he Ayurveda diet is considered a healing system that is purely natural and holistic. The challenges of beginning the journey to a fully Ayurvedic diet or lifestyle is the learning curve of all the new elements involved. A hallmark of a properly executed Ayurveda diet is food digestion and assimilation of the nutrients. With an Ayurveda Diet, food is medicine. Accordingly, the best thing we can give our bodies is careful consideration and creative preparation of the food we put into it. By impeccably following this ancient diet and supplementing with premium Ayurvedic supplements, you are priming your body for longlasting optimal health. An Ayurvedic diet: Helps Improve Digestion: The basis of an Ayurvedic Diet is easily digestible food processes of preparation, combination and cooking without compromising the food’s integral nutritional value.

These methods include fermenting and cooking in ways that make it the easiest for the body to absorb the nutrients.

Mental and Emotional Health: In Ayurveda, different psychological states like anger, greed, lust, ego and desire are closely linked to what we eat. An Ayurveda diet takes into consideration different aspects, such as the mental and body type (There are three body types in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), life stage and biological rhythms. Considering these very personal aspects can help design a uniquely personal Ayurvedic diet that will ultimately balance mental and emotional health.

Builds Immunity and Fights Fatigue: The human body is susceptible to illness through stress, lethargy and fatigue. Different foods such as cardamom, garlic, pepper and ginger can be used to improve energy levels in the body thus giving the body immunity to ailments such as anemia.

Nariveda Ayurveda Supplements Our holistically formulated Ayurvedic supplements are Super-Dense Adaptogenic Nutrition. Our Nutri-Cosmetic products are designed with powerful intra-cellular antioxidants and detoxification catalysts that enhance and fortify the body’s systems. The results can include healthier looking skin, a radiant glow, more energy and vitality, and amazing overall health benefits. We have supplements for flexibility, cardiovascular support, memory, dental support, energy & vitality, and detoxification.

Father and son founders, Nirmal Yogi and Adrian Patel-Delaloye created the Nariveda line of liquid plant-based elixirs. Nirmal Yogi developed and formulated Nariveda’s powerful Elixirs leveraging his 40+ years of experience as an organic chemist and a devout practitioner of Ayurveda. Adrian’s background is in high-tech, fast-growth startups.

When his father approached him to be involved in the world’s first liquid-based Ayurvedic nutraceutical company he quickly signed up.

NATURAL NUTMEG CUSTOMERS ASK FOR A 15% DISCOUNT AND FREE SHIPPING WITH CODE HAPPY15. TO ORDER VISIT WWW.NARIVEDA.COM OR CALL 928.554.4737. See ad on page 18.

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Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

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

Join us for a Special One Day Event

SunDo Retreat A Korean Taoist Healing and Meditation Practice Breath. Postures. Vitality.

Saturday, March 21, 2020 9:00-5:00

45 South Main St., West Hartford

To register or for info, contact Carol Gale 860-502-5260 Newcomers Welcome. Donations accepted Learn more: sundointernational.com

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

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

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

Nutmeg “Nuggets” CBD: A Viable Alternative to Pharmaceuticals

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Herbal Medicine for Digestive Issues

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ne of the overarching themes in Chinese medicine is to create balance. One of the keys to balance is digestive health.

The digestive system is likened to a soup pot cooking over a flame. If cold foods are added, such as raw vegetables or cold water, the soup is cooled down, and it takes longer to bring the pot back up to the optimal cooking temperature. The same is true of your digestive system. When you eat cold or hard to digest foods such as raw vegetables, iced drinks, dairy products or need to take medications such as antibiotics, it cools the stomach, reduces energy of the digestive system and makes digestion difficult which can result in diarrhea, gas, bloating or pain in the abdomen. Conversely, eating foods that are too hot such as very spicy foods, fried, greasy foods or alcohol; can cause symptoms like acid reflux, constipation or strong smelling gas.

Preparing foods and herbs changes their impact on the digestive system and can help improve balance. Raw vegetables are cold in nature, but when they are cooked, become warmer and easier to digest. If you have difficulty digesting salads or raw vegetables, try more cooked or steamed vegetables. Likewise, fermented dairy products such as yogurt and kefir are also easier to digest due to the enzymes created during the fermentation process. Many times, dairy products are lightly warmed and have warming spices such as cinnamon or ginger added to improve their digestibility. Similarly, herbs are processed in different ways to change how they work in the body. In its fresh form, Ginger is warm and very useful for nausea and vomiting and to help settle the stomach during times of nausea.

When it is dried, it becomes hot in temperature and is very helpful in conditions involving watery diarrhea, poorly digested food, or stomach pain following a course of antibiotics. Knowing how herbs, spices and food preparation affect digestion can help you make small changes to your diet that have big results in digestive balance.

Herbal medicine is incredibly helpful for a variety of digestive complaints. With the right combination of herbs, a formula can be made to strengthen digestion, to cool the stomach in cases such as acid reflux or ulcers, and to stop nausea and vomiting among other concerns. Contact your qualified local herbalist for a consultation to determine herbs that are the best match for you.

Barbara Scavotto is a clinical herbalist and owner of AutumnTide Herbal Wellness in Enfield. Barbara’s deep knowledge of individual herbs and formulation allows her to custom blend formulas for each client’s unique constitution and health goals. Call 860-8371588 or email at autumntideherbals@gmail.com to schedule a consultation today. For more information visit us at www.autumntideherbalwellness.com. See ad on page 8.

arner's Best is an independent Connecticut based CBD brand that started in the Fall of 2018. “I got interested in CBD in 2016. My 80-year-old father had COPD and was struggling with anxiety and severe migraines. This caused him trouble sleeping and unbearable pain. He was prescribed Oxycontin and Tylenol with codeine. The family approached him several times to consider medical marijuana or CBD. He declined, he wanted to be "sober" to visit with family, friends and neighbors. Finally, after 6 months of taking 6-8 Tylenol per day and Oxy several times per week we convinced him to try CBD. He only agreed because we assured him, he could not get high,” says Andy Warner.

Within a week his father never touched the Oxy again and his Tylenol usage dropped to 1-2 pills a day. His anxiety reduced and he slept better. During his last 6 weeks, his hospice nurses commented on how well the CBD managed his pain and anxiety. They were amazed that he did not use the morphine they made available to him.

“I was glad he was not in as much discomfort and sleeping better, he was glad he was clear headed, sober and not sleepy all the time,” says Andy. “That convinced me that CBD could be a viable option to pharmaceuticals. I started my research, visited numerous national manufacturers, selected a partner and founded Warner's Best.”

Warner opened Natures Gifts in Avon so customers could come to a physical location. As an independent CBD store, they have the freedom to negotiate directly with any manufacturer. They choose which products to carry and are not limited to any one brand. They select brands that are easy to work with, grown organically, use CO2 extraction, are manufactured in FDA registered facilities and have certificates of analysis for all their products. The house brand Warner's Best is made from hemp grown in Kentucky by a national manufacturer and lab tested here in CT to confirm it is true to the label.

Natures Gifts currently carries Medical Mary products and Montel Williams CBD capsules at discounted prices. Both are highly regarded national brands. Right now, Natures Gifts carries 40+ different CBD products; eight different topicals, 5 different types of capsules, 3 different gummies, bath bombs, coffee, green foods, water soluble powders, beauty products, full and broad spectrum tinctures from 500-3000 mg, and several different pet products. They have friendly and knowledgeable staff who genuinely enjoy what they are doing, believe in the products and their benefits and will continue to advocate for natural solutions to manage the conditions that afflict people.

CBD has a reputation for working well for both people and pets.

Inflammation and anxiety are two primary areas where it appears to be most effective. Inflammation is the cause of 80% of all pain. It affects general well-being and can be horribly debilitating at its worst.

Customers regularly tell amazing stories of how CBD has helped with their neuropathy, back pain, general aches and pains, how they have been able to reduce or eliminate their need for opioids and prescription pain medications.

Visit Natures Gifts at 304 West Main Street, Avon or naturesgifts-usa.com/ or more information or if are interested in hosting an event in our room Contact Andy Werner at sales@NaturesGifts-usa.com. facebook.com/WarnersBestCBD/ facebook.com/NaturesGiftsUSA. See ad on page 7. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Nutmeg “Nuggets” Something like, “I will give myself time to meditate 3 times a week”. I’ll leverage the ideas from the ladies of “burnout” to say - make it SCPCSP (Soon, Certain, Positive, CONCRete, Specific, Personal) 5. Write your rules down and make them visible. I know, simple, but don’t skip it. Make it an art project, have fun with it!

6. Start talking about it with others. This is your personal campaign trail - “I, Liz Kametz believe in 60 minutes of exercise 4 times a week, 3 long baths and one indulgent dessert a week.”

The more you tell others what you are doing, the more likely you are to hold yourself accountable.

7. Enlist self-care advocates. These are your campaign junkies, the people you know will send you a quick note to check in, with no judgement, just complete support.

10 Ways to Tackle Self-Care (& Actually Stick to It)

8. Periodically (ideally daily) check in with yourself. Simply hold your hand to your heart, close your eyes, take a deep breath, exhale, and say to yourself, “how are you doing?”

s women, we grew up reading articles about how to get a guy, how to reach our dreams, but in the midst of life we lost ourselves. This particularly happens to those of us with human giver syndrome. I’m currently in the process of “finding myself”, as they say, and amongst the tears, sweat and sleep I’m finding it helpful to capture concrete ideas during this very nebulous, ambiguous journey. Here’s what I’ve found to be helpful:

9. Check in with your loved ones. Ask your spouse, friends, colleagues, “what have you observed with my new self-care rules?” Be ready for the answers not always being positive. Part of taking care of yourself might feel like less time taking care of others. You’ll find the time you are spending with the ones you love is filled with more joy and less negativity.

A

1. Research your soul fillers. For some of you, you already know: running, cooking, being with friends, yoga, meditation. The list is endless but the point is to take some time reflecting on when you felt the most joy, the most “filled” and jot it down.

2. Make a wish list. So you poured through books, articles, or just self-reflection, now it’s time to write down the best of the best.

Don’t constrain yourself with, “oh my schedule can’t do that” or “I don’t have the money for that.” This is a WISH OR DREAM list.

3. Talk to family/spouse about the list and how they can help. This can be tough for us “human givers”, asking for help provokes shame and guilt. Look at your list together and start to have a conversation about what could really be doable.

4. Declare your SELF-CARE rules. For some of us, we run a household full of rules - clear your plate, make your bed, clean up your room, be kind to each other, but it’s less likely we have rules for ourselves. It might be that we harbor a belief system that seems to be our invisible rules we live by, but now, I want you to go CONCRete. I want you to pick 3 rules for self-care.

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10. Don’t beat yourself up with a blip. Any “program” that’s a bit concrete can be tough to adhere to. This has some built in safety nets with the campaign junkies and check-ins, but you’ll still slip. Try to look at it as a way to learn more about yourself, make tweaks to the plan as you need, breathe and flow through.

Liz Kametz and her husband have four children (two special needs, two step-children), and one anxious rescue dog. She holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and MS in Systems Engineering and is trained in Change Management and Lean/Six Sigma. Her vision of Just Be came from her own lack of self-care and the recognition that the epidemic of chronic stress is real and needs to be addressed.

Adrienne Gervais is a wife and mom of three college aged children and has spent most of her professional career helping school children grow into mindful adults. Now she is shifting to a leadership role as General Manager of Just Be. She holds a BA in Political Science, is a certified Master Energy Therapist and is currently completing a Master’s degree in Integrative Health and Holistic Healing. www.justbethejourney.com info@justbethejourney.com www.liz-kametz.com. See ad on page 6.

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Nutmeg “Nuggets” How can you easily and safely take advantage and amplify your body’s natural system for ridding itself of unwanted substances or addressing other health concerns? One of the safest and most effective methods is an infrared sauna. In an infrared sauna, the average person will sweat out 20% toxins and 80% water versus a traditional sauna with 3% toxins and 97% water.

Engaging in any new health routine whether it’s exercise or a treatment modality should be done mindfully, factoring in your own needs and concerns. While everyone is different, these 5 steps can help improve your infrared sauna detoxification experience: 1. Hydrate: The sweat produced in an infrared sauna is 80-85% water, so make sure you hydrate before, during and after your sauna detox session.

S

Why Should I Try Infrared Sauna?

auna therapy has been around for centuries as a way to detoxify your body. Different cultures from different time periods have used saunas to improve their health. In Pompeii there are still remnants of heated rooms where ancient Romans would enjoy steam baths. In Scandinavia and Japan structures are built expressly for sweating.

At its core, the idea of detoxification is actively removing unwanted substances from the body. Researchers have long told us how the body sweats out toxic substances including heavy metals. As long as you maintain proper hydration, the more you safely sweat, the more toxins you’ll expel from your body.

“Detoxification is important because it strengthens the body’s immune system and helps the body’s biochemical processes function efficiently so that we are better able to digest the nutrients in our foods,” says Dr. Rachel West. She continues, “detoxification has been shown to be helpful with colitis, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, auto-immune disease, immune deficiency states, autism, ADD and ADHD.”

2. Raise your heart rate: Some people have experienced an improved detox experience if they go for a brisk walk before entering the sauna.

3. Time limits: The amount of time you spend in a sauna detox session can vary. Some people begin at 10-15 minute sessions every other day and then gradually increase to 40 minute sessions once a week. Listen to your body.

4. Starting temperature: The optimal sauna experience occurs between 100° and 130°F where the detoxification program combines far and mid infrared. The session begins at a higher temperature to increase core temperature then reduces to a low, comfortable intensity level.

5. No need to shower: After each sauna session, simply dry off with a towel. It is best to let your body cool off naturally while allowing the detox to continue. Hydrate regularly throughout the day.

Imagine Float offers a Sunlighten mPulse bELIEVE two-person Infrared Sauna. Sessions are 30-45 minutes and can be a great addition to any self-care regimen. Imagine Float can be found at 290 West Main Street/Route 44 (next to the Perfect Toy) in Avon. For more information, go to imaginefloat.com or call 860.255.7771. See ad on page 28.

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Nutmeg “Nuggets” What Do We Do in a Sundo Practice?

First, we activate xi through warm-up exercises. Next, we build xi through postures. The postures are aligned with the five elements and yin and yang energy patterns. There are many levels of postures. As one progresses through the levels, the postures and breathing patterns become more challenging and require more strength and endurance. Finally, we circulate xi through cool down stretches, internal organ exercises, and mild strengthening exercises. The internal organ exercises are a series of ten movements to circulate xi to the internal organs in their yin/yang pairs. Classes end with a bow and a reading from the Tao Te Ching.

SunDo

I

A Korean Taoist Yoga Practice

’ve been a regular practitioner of SunDo for two years and have noticed subtle and sustainable changes in my life. I am more balanced and in harmony, I have my breath and my center; and therefore, I am never lost.

What is SunDo? SunDo is an ancient Korean Taoist yoga practice originally practiced in the mountains of Korea. This practice emerged out of a deep belief in the Tao and one’s connection to heaven and xi, a vital energy. The xi is composed of yin and yang energy. The goal in SunDo practice is to balance the yin and yang energy and thereby achieve a state of harmony with self and the Tao. We achieve this state of harmony through proper breathing which is instrumental to connecting to the Tao and pulling energy into the body. With mindful attention of breath; mind and body become one. Proper breathing lays the foundation of all postures practiced during SunDo.

Benefits of a SunDo practice are endless. As one achieves a balance of yin and yang energy and unity of body and mind, wellness occurs. One can learn to manage stress better. Mentally, peace is possible. As a mixed-arts therapist specializing in body and emotional integration, I think the biggest obstacle to wellness is the compartmentalization in our healthcare practices. SunDo is an integrative practice. It connects our bodies, minds and spirits. In my opinion, there is no one that cannot benefit from practicing SunDo. SunDo is not just a practice for life; life is the practice.

For more information, go to sundointernational.com. Newcomers are always welcome. SunDo in West Hartford is located at 45 S. Main St., West Hartford. Currently there are classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 6:00pm and Saturday mornings at 9:15am. Join us on March 21st for a full day retreat.

For information or to sign up, contact DJ Horn at 860.241.1144.

DJ Horn is owner and principle therapist at Integrated Physical Therapy and Counseling. Visit www. integratedlifetherapy.com for more info. Gratitude to Master Hyun Moon Kim for his contributions from his book The Tao of Life: An Investigation of SunDo Taoism’s Personal Growth Model As a Process of Spiritual Development. See ad on page 10.

Dr. Katy

Firisin

ND, MSPT

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Creating Happy Memories for Dementia Patients and Loved Ones

By Neil Anand, Owner, ComForCare Home Care

D

ementia can make it difficult for seniors and their loved ones to enjoy one another’s company in the same way that the family is used to. Dementia can alter a person’s behavior and emotions in addition to memories and cognitive abilities. Unfortunately, dementia is a progressive disease, so it is important for families to make the most of the time with their loved one.

Professional home caregivers may be able to help family members employ some tips and tricks that will help create happy memories for dementia patients and loved ones.

Avoid Behavioral Triggers It is very common for dementia patients to become upset by certain triggers. Triggers may include things like taking a shower, being asked to eat certain foods, or being introduced into an unfamiliar situation. Becoming aware of behavioral triggers can help families to avoid the situations or to understand why the situation triggers the behaviors.

If a shower triggers an aggressive response, it may be because the bathroom is uncomfortably cold. Warming up the bathroom by running hot water for a few minutes prior to the shower may help family members and caregivers to avoid troubling incidents that may get in the way of happy times.

Play Familiar Music and Movies Playing music and movies in the home that are from an era that is comforting to a dementia sufferer can help to lighten the mood and promote happier emotions. Music

and movies can bring back memories of enjoyable times, which can be reassuring.

Family members can ask their loved one to tell them about what songs mean to them or discuss their favorite parts of the movies to get a conversation started. This type of interaction can help to stimulate memory functions, which may even delay dementia symptoms in some cases.

Create a Memory Box or Scrapbook A memory box or scrapbook can be created by the dementia sufferer and a caregiver or family member. A memory box or scrapbook can be filled with different mementos, including pictures, event ticket stubs, recipes, information about the person’s likes and interests, awards that have been received, information about past jobs, and many other memory-inducing items. Creating a memory box or scrapbook is a fun, engaging activity.

When the dementia sufferer looks back at these items, the person is much more likely to retain the connections and be comforted and uplifted.

Maintain a Sense of Humor Maintaining a sense of humor can help families to continue to create happy memories after a dementia diagnosis. Dementia patients often retain their sense of humor and find jokes to be a comforting way to break the tension. Joking around and sharing life stories is a great way for family members to learn things that they didn’t know about their loved one while enjoying positive experiences with them.

DementiaWise® DementiaWise® is ComForCare’s proprietary, comprehensive care approach for people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia that focuses on accentuating the positive by supporting and encouraging remaining skills and abilities; and Joyful Memories, an interactive, singalong program that uses the power of music to create connections and positive outlets for emotional expression. ComForCare’s other differentiators include in-home nurse assessments, customized care plan development and ongoing evaluation to anticipate and plan for changes, all based on the client’s interests, hobbies, skills and abilities that provide joy and purpose in their life.

To learn more, visit ComForCare.com/ FairfieldCT and DementiaWise.com or call 203.612.8966 for a no obligation consultation. Portions of this article were originally featured on blog.comforcare.com. ComForCare Home Care is a premier provider of in-home care with nearly 200 independently owned and operated locations in the U.S., Canada and the U.K., helping older adults live independently in their own homes and continue to do all the things they love. The home care company is committed to helping people live their best life possible and also offers special programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. ComForCare Home Care, 1700 Post Road, Suite E5, Fairfield. 203.612.8966. fairfieldct@comforcare.com. See ad on page 3. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Go with Your Gut!

By Gina Barbetta MS, RD, CD-N

E

verything you eat passes through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the tube-like structure of your digestive system. The GI tract is home to millions of microbes including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses which are known as the microbiome.

The microbiome is responsible for a number of important internal functions including synthesizing vitamins B-12 and K and some amino acids. Having the right balance of gut bacteria influences weight, digestion, skin health, and may reduce risk of certain diseases. Dysbiosis, a disturbance in the balance of gut microbes, is caused by infection, poor diet, and prolonged use of antimicrobial medications. When dysbiosis occurs in the body, you become more susceptible to obesity and other diseases not limited to the GI tract: cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune, food allergy and Alzheimer’s disease.

The 5-R acronym stands for remove, replace, repopulate, repair and rebalance. The first step is to remove any type of gut irritant including unnecessary medications, alcohol, caffeine, processed food, food additives, or food allergens. The second step is to replace elements that are key to digestion such as digestive enzymes or hydrochloric acid and nutrients, if deficient.

Gut Microbes

Probiotics are foods or supplements that contain live microorganisms intended to maintain or improve the microbiome. Probiotic rich foods include yogurt, kefir, fresh sauerkraut, tempeh, miso and kimchi. Dozens of different probiotic bacteria offer health benefits.

The goal of the next phase is to repair intestinal cells and mucosa in an effort to reduce inflammation and restore health to the microbiome. Consuming nutritious food high in certain vitamins and zinc, bone broth and supplements such as L-glutamine, collagen, aloe vera, marshmallow or slippery elm may assist in gut repair. Finally, the last stage of the model is re-balance. During this phase, focus is on the management of stress, exercise, improved sleep and relationships.

Gut microbes protect the body against potentially toxic food compounds, and act as immune system modulators. In fact, 70-80% of all immune cells are within our gut, making it the largest immune organ. Additionally, about 90% of serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate sleep and balance moods, is produced in the gut. The gut’s microbiome and nerve cells can directly affect our mood and brain chemistry and are the basis for the emerging science of Nutritional Psychiatry.

Genetics & Environment Genetics and environment play a role in the development of a healthy microbiome. During infancy, the microbiome is determined by maternal – offspring exchanges of microbes during the natural birthing process and breast feeding. Practices such as Cesarean section and formula feeding have been linked to an increased risk of metabolic and immune related diseases. Lifestyle factors such as diets high in processed foods, animal fats, lack of exercise and chronic stress lead to a depleted microbiome. Studies have shown that high dietary fat and high fructose disturb the GI barrier, which can lead to fatty liver disease and inflammation. The good news is that you can improve your microbiome with an integrative nutrition approach.

Integrative Nutrition The 5-R gut protocol, developed by the Institute for Functional Medicine, helps alleviate symptoms of digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.

It helps with symptoms related to gut health such as acne, anxiety, autoimmune conditions, joint and muscle pain, migraines and more.

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Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

Prebiotics and Probiotics Next, it’s time to repopulate your gut garden with prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics are indigestible carbohydrates and fiber that feed your microbiome. The highest amounts of prebiotics are found in raw garlic, onions, leeks, bananas, seaweed, dandelion greens and asparagus. It is recommended to consume at least 5 grams of prebiotic fiber per day.

The gut microbiome plays a very important role in your health by modulating your immune system. A disturbance in the balance of gut microbes is caused by infection, poor diet, and prolonged use of antimicrobial medications. Removing or reducing these contributing factors is a first step to improving your gut health. If you are ready to heal your gut through nutrition, lifestyle and supplements, consider seeking the guidance of a Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist who practices in Integrative Nutrition.

Gina Barbetta MS, RD, CD-N is a Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist with over 25-years of experience. She is the owner of Nourish

by Gina, LLC located at the Red Barn in Durham – New Earth Holistic Therapies & Art Center. Gina uses an integrative, personalized approach to manage adult and pediatric nutrition issues. She integrates a variety of nutrition therapies including whole foods, therapeutic - grade supplements and mind body modalities into her practice. For further information call 203.206.3873. Most insurances accepted.

Retirement Planning: Four Tax Changes You Need to Know

By Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, MBA, AWMA®

L

ast December while many of us were preparing to celebrate the holidays, a new tax law was signed that impacted many people’s retirement savings choices. With Tax Day approaching next month, you already may be in touch with your tax and financial advisors about preparing your annual returns. Now may be an optimal time to discuss with them whether the new law affects you.

Many people consider the law and its changes to the retirement industry long overdue. Following is a summary of the new law and four key takeaways that my team and I have discussed with our clients which may be of interest to you.

SECURE Act Now in Place On Friday, December 20, 2019, the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement (SECURE) Act was signed into law. The legislation made headlines for a couple of reasons.

It was the second time in three years that new tax regulation was passed at year-end.

Additionally, and perhaps more significantly, the SECURE Act offers Americans a more robust toolkit to save for retirement.

The SECURE Act gives retirees greater flexibility with their retirement accounts, includes changes to multiple retirement plans and tax favored accounts and plans: • Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) • Defined Contribution Plans (e.g.

401ks) • Defined Benefit Pension Plans • 529 College Savings Accounts

While some of the provisions are administrative in nature, others directly impact individual investors. Most of the provisions became effective January 1, 2020.

Change 1 - IRA contributions extended to age 72 Previously, you were not able to contribute to your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) once you turned 70 ½ years old. Now, so long as you have earned income, you can save to your traditional IRA up until age 72. ROTH IRAs contributions continue to have no age-based restrictions.

How much can you contribute to your IRA? The annual contribution limit for 2020 is $6,000. If you are 50 years old or older, you can contribute $7,000.

Change 2- Requirement Minimum Distributions (RMDs) start date changed to age 72 A Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is money you legally must take out of your retirement account. Before the SECURE Act was in place, you had to start collecting your RMD from your IRA by April 1 of the year after you turned 70 ½. The SECURE Act simplifies this age requirement by pushing back the RMD to age 72. This means that if you have not started collecting your RMDs, with the new law you can wait to begin collecting them until you are 72 years old. As a result, you get almost two additional years of tax-free compound growth in your IRA when your retirement account is near its peak.

Change 3 - Stretch IRAs are eliminated In the past, if someone other than a spouse inherited an IRA, the beneficiary could have taken the RMDs on the inherited

IRA over her lifetime. For adult children or grandchildren, the ability to “stretch” the IRA’s RMDs over 30, 40, or even 50 years of tax deferral was a very valuable tax planning tool. Under the new law, non-spouse beneficiaries of an IRA must withdraw all assets out of the inherited IRA within 10 years of the deceased account owner’s death. It is not required that the inherited IRA RMDs be collected annually; conceivably, one could empty the account in the final year. This new rule also applies to 401(k) and other definedcontribution accounts.

Exceptions to the new 10-year rule include assets inherited by: • Minor children • Disabled or chronically ill beneficiaries • Beneficiaries who are less than 10 years younger than the deceased IRA owner or 401(k) participant.

Beneficiaries of an inherited IRA or 401(k) whose original owner passed away before January 1, 2020 are not subject to this new 10-year rule.

Change 4 – 401(k) accounts more focused on retirement The SECURE Act makes it more difficult for employees to access their 401(k) for any purpose other than retirement. For example, the SECURE Act specifically forbids making 401(k) loans easily available through automatic credit/debit. There are a few ways to make withdrawals under the new law. The SECURE Act does allow you to withdraw $5,000 for the birth or adoption of a child. If married, each spouse can withdraw $5,000. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Note: while the withdrawal will be penalty free, income taxes will be due on the withdrawal.

FEEL FREE, MOVE WELL, GET ROLFED! Everything in nature has order and balance. Rolfing helps you get back to your natural alignment after the accidents, injuries and traumas of life.

What else should I know about the SECURE Act?

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There are provisions that are applicable to individual investors, business owners, retirement plan sponsors, and participants in employer-provided retirement plans. There is a lot to digest, and not all components of the new legislation may be relevant to you. If you would value an independent view of your retirement plan and/or additional perspective on the SECURE Act and your situation, reach out any time.

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

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Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

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Get Your “Slinky” Back: Get Rolfed

By Sharon Sklar, Certified Advanced Rolfer

R

emember watching a slinky roll itself down the stairs? It was one continuous metal coil that effortlessly flowed with ease, grace and symmetry; poetry in motion. We are actually designed with that sort of flow and natural movement. The injuries, accidents and traumas of life can either abruptly or over time create abberated patterns, taking us out of our rhythmic movement and proper body function.

Everyday actions like putting on socks without pain or comfortably sitting at a desk for work or at a table to eat a meal, cease to exist for so many people. They suffer the physical limitations that chronic stiffness and pain can cause. My Rolfing® practice over these last 39 years has been devoted to helping people get back their freedom of movement and joy of everyday activities with ease and fluidity.

People can easily fall out of the balance that is our natural state. That slip on the ice last winter resulting in a hip that doesn’t move well anymore. That fenderbender car accident that a couple of weeks or months later has you turn your entire torso instead of just turning your head. Or that life-saving surgery that leaves us with a stiff back and limited movement.

When I was growing up, my dad had a “bad back”. When his back would “go out” he was in bed for days not moving and sucking down pain killers and muscle relaxants. People back then were told to wait out the pain and lay low. What we know now is that movement creates the ease that we need to overcome the stress and strain of the spasm. What we need is circulation which brings that healing blood flow to the affected area.

have become more and more sedentary.

We seem to lack the balance that keeps us happy and healthy.

We all know people who have had hip replacement surgery, they are up later that day, walking a bit, moving as much as they are able. As they progress, the major rehab is “walk, walk, walk”. Movement is key for a body to get strong and remain strong.

Unfortunately, we live in a culture that rewards long hours at a desk and computers. We are all guilty of binge-watching or letting kids play endless hours of video games. We get less sleep, less exercise and

Take Rob. He is a healthy, strong working man who loves to golf. I met him several years ago when he got tired of his back acting up a few times a year. It would feel somewhat weak at first, then would go into painful spasms that would side-line him for some time. Then came the “wait it out” phase, when he was no longer in pain, but was not able to swing his club or sit for long since his back was still not right. This was a cycle from year to year.

In my practice as a Rolfer, I work with people who are wanting to restore the natural movement that they once had after an injury, trauma or accident. That is what Rolfing® is all about. Over the years, I have had the honor and privilege of working with scores of people who have done just that…they got their “slinky” back!

Our joints are designed with a certain level of horizontality for correct bio-mechanical usage. Many times, tennis elbow (tendonitis) is the result of the shoulder being too tight, not fully functioning so that the elbow is asked to do more motion than it was actually designed to do. That strain pattern begins to put wear on joints and creates a pattern of pain and stiffness. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Rob got Rolfed…the full ten sessions over a five-month period. We found it was not his back that was the problem, it was his psoas, a deep abdominal muscle that directly connects the spine to the upper leg. When one side of the psoas becomes tight, it yanks the entire body out of balance. All the back work and massage would not clear up the problem since it was internal. There was a deep twist that only “showed up” in his back, but was not the cause of the problem.

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Assertiveness 101: It’s Ok to Say “No”

By Sonia V. Manganello, DM, DD, CNC

I

t’s a beautiful, sunny warm day and you’ve made it a point to take the day off for some well-deserved rest and relaxation.

You’re about to leave for the beach, sunscreen in hand when the phone rings. You look down at your cell phone and it’s one of your closest friends. You reluctantly answer.

They ask you in desperation to please help them move because they don’t want to move tomorrow in the rain. Now what? You say, “Sure, why not”, however, you’re mad as can be since you wanted to go do something for yourself for once. But it’s the right thing to do, yes? NO! The healthy boundary you set for yourself is now nonexistent. We’ve all done it at some point in our lives, but being assertive is a balance that can be achieved.

When people hear the word assertive, negative connotations often come to mind.

Negative words like pushy, nag, jerk, and the best one…selfish, are common. In reality, being assertive means that you communicate your own needs and wants in a way that is respectful to others. People confuse assertiveness with aggressive behavior, which is getting your own needs and wants meant at the expense of others. Often, to avoid being aggressive or selfish, people revert to passive behavior, allowing others' needs and wants to always come first.

The Continuum of Behaviors Everyone falls along the continuum from completely passive behavior to very

aggressive behavior. Often, this may vary.

We may behave passively in some situations (e.g. at work) and aggressively in others (e.g. with family.) Ideally, we would all work to balance our needs and wants with those of others. Where do you fall on the continuum? If you find yourself at one extreme or the other of the spectrum and not right in the middle of balance and healthy boundaries, then let’s look onward to change with four simple techniques.

How to Change Being perfectly assertive all the time can be a challenge today. Sometimes, you might not feel like you can stand up for what you need or want. Other times, you might not take the needs and wants of others into consideration. Here are some communication strategies that can help you communicate more assertively: 1. Know Your Rights You have the right to say “no.” You also have the right not to have to justify your decisions to others since silence is bliss.

You have a right to express your feelings in a loving and compassionate manner. Moreover, it is not up to you to take responsibility for the behavior of others. Mistakes are a learning process that some would really benefit from and you have a right to make them too. You have the right to expect others to do/pay their fair share because your name most likely is not Frank who owns a

bank. Finally, you have the right to expect honesty from others and not manipulative lies or half-truths. What other rights might you have? Right now, in this moment what rights do you feel are being infringed upon?

Are there any situations in which you aren't respecting the rights of others?

2. Express Yourself Clearly and Repetitively if Needed When you've identified a situation in which you need to be more assertive, try to phrase your request in a simple, fact-based way. For instance, a common situation for parents is having a child whose room is consistently a mess and the child thinks they’re going out somewhere with it in that state of chaos. A simple phrase could be, "I asked you three days ago to clean your room.

I need you to do your fair share of chores to help in this house." Often, the child will start making excuses. At that point, you can repeat yourself, "I still need you to do your fair share to help." If the child doesn't at this point turn around to go clean their room, you may need to give a consequence. "I need you to help out and clean your room, or you will not be allowed to have any friends over until it is done." End of story.

3. Use "I Statements" When we try to resolve a conflict, we often turn to accusations and name calling.

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Rather than focusing blame on the other person, focus on describing the situation and your feelings. For instance, if your friend often leaves you waiting, you could say, "When you arrive later than we said we would meet, I feel hurt and disrespected." Or if you’re on the other side and are consistently late everywhere you go you may take the initiative to say, “Thank you for waiting for me, I appreciate it.” Acknowledgment and communication are key to keep the balance.

4. Say "No." One area that can be difficult is turning down requests. People can find themselves overwhelmed with activities and a long to-do list simply because they find it hard to say “no.” You may find that you feel like you have to justify why you are saying "no," but this is not the case. A simple "no" or "no, thank you for asking" is enough. If you are prone to saying "yes" too easily, you may want to start by saying, "Let me give that some thought." That will buy you the time you need to really decide if you have room in your life for one more activity. Some may say learning to say “no” is a skill that takes practice. You decide how long you think it will take you to master it.

Practice makes perfect.

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The Fragility of Life

By James W. Osborne, MS, LPC, BCPC

O

ver the past several years I have had the opportunity My college roommate used to wake up every morning and announce to witness the fragility of our lives. Friends have faced that, “Life is a poop sandwich and every day we take another bite.” illnesses, unexpected deaths and tragedies, unwanted He was a joy to be around. Everything he looked at was poop. A divorces, losses of employment and devcouple of marriages, medications and lots of astating financial disasters. Each incident therapy have led him to a different perspecLife on this plane is finite. and loss created an awareness in me and tive, which includes hope, acceptance and forced me to assess my own life and ask gratitude. He did not turn into Shirley Temple It does not go on forever.

- what is really important to me? It is obvion the “good ship lollipop,” but at least he is I know that I have had ous in the seasons that everything changes. not Debbie Downer anymore. Our attitudes more breakfasts than I Everything and everyone will pass away in reflect the perspectives or lens from which we time. Life is transitory in nature. If I realview our lives and the world. will have in the future. ize this, then how do I live my life. What The word gratitude comes from the Latin matters? What do I live for? Is it family, “gratus” for thankfulness and is associated friends, connections, experiences, or work, success and posseswith the Latin “gratia” for grace. Gratitude is a positive attitude/emosions? What is valuable to me? As a few friends of mine have tion steeped in thankfulness, hope, compassion, acceptance and often quipped – no one on their death bed says: “I wish I had joy. It is not possible to experience gratitude/thankfulness and fear/ spent more time at work.” Rather they say, “I wish I had spent anger at the same time; just as it is not possible to be dancing in love more time with my children, family and loved ones - interacting, and feeling abandoned. Gratitude is an orientation, a choice we can doing, being and sharing moments.” make in every situation. We can look for what is good in the picture, I also realized that the awareness of life’s fragility and terminal nature do not always stay with me. It is like driving down the highway and seeing a horrific accident. Everyone slows down, drives cautiously for a couple of miles or minutes, then returns to their usual aggressive self-absorbed unaware driving style. It is as if the awareness is erased. Or is it that somehow the concept of death just does not apply to us? Are we living our lives as if we will live forever? Trauma and experiencing loss jar that complacency. The question becomes – how can we maintain the awareness of our mortality without being obsessed with death or spiraling into the depths of depression? It seems to me that developing an attitude of appreciation and gratitude for our lives holds the answer. Gratitude is an attitude that we can choose in every moment.

Attitude in flying is the relationship between the wings of the plane and the earth. Our attitudes are our relationship between our perspectives (how we view things, our leanings) and our grounding.

not what is wrong with the picture. It gives us a different and higher perspective. It frees us to make connection.

One of my mentors would write notes of appreciation to people every time he would venture off. We ran a treatment center on a Greek island. I was very shocked and embarrassed the first time I received a note. I questioned him on why he was writing those notes.

He responded by saying he did not want to leave things unsaid, he wanted people to know how and why they were important to him. I truly understood the value in that when one day he went off to do a training and never returned. He was on the mainland of Europe and diagnosed with a terminal condition. He went back to the United States and never returned to Greece. I visited him in the US before he died. He had no regrets. He had told everyone what he wanted to say and had expressed his appreciation, love and caring. Each person in his life knew how valuable and important they were to him and why.

They knew they mattered. This is the grace of gratitude. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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How do we arrive at such a place of grace? It begins with the awareness that life on this plane is finite. It does not go on forever. I know that I have had more breakfasts than I will have in the future. It is this awareness that I must accept. How do I engage, enjoy and appreciate the life I have in the present moments? There is a meme on the internet in which Charlie Brown says to Snoopy, “we only live once.” Snoopy replies, “Wrong! We only die once. We live every day.” The first step is to be present in the moment, accept what is and find appreciation in whatever is in the moment. The next step is to realize that everything passes and changes.

We may lose track of that awareness. Imagine something or someone that is important to you and think/feel what it would be like if that “something or someone” is no longer in your life. Imagine the hole that would exist.

Then truly appreciate what you currently have knowing that it will pass in time. This is to enter through the door of gratitude into a meaningful, heartfelt life.

A meaningful and heartfelt life requires us to take personal responsibility. It means that we care for ourselves in order to be fully present in life in the moment. Being responsible means I show appreciation for myself and others. I give thanks and say thank you.

I act in ways that demonstrate appreciation.

I eat responsibly. I take care of my body. I express gratitude. I manage my affairs in such a manner as to cause the least amount of harm. I see the connectedness of all things. I understand the difference between needs and wants. I find contentment and appreciation in the simple and the ordinary. I enjoy nature. I choose to savor life and relationships. I focus on what is right with the situation and add to it in a heartfelt manner.

James W. Osborne, MS, LPC has been twice named one of Natural Nutmeg’s 10 Best Winners for Holistic Psychotherapy/LCSW/Counseling.

He is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 40 years of clinical experience specializing in trauma and selfactualization. He employs Mindfulness, Jungian Psychology, Gestalt Psychology, ACT, EMDR and value-based techniques unique to the individual to support positive health changes. His undergraduate degree is in Philosophy and he views psychotherapy as philosophy in action. He can be contacted at Osborne Counseling Services in Kensington. 860.384.4971 or at JWOsborne.

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Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

stress (exercise, meditation, deep breathing, vagal nerve stimulation), participants learn to control the hormones that are impacting their digestive health and causing them to hold onto weight (especially that excess fat around the mid-section).

A Microbiome Reset to Transform Your Weight and Health

By Derrick Schull, ND s a practitioner who focuses on microbiome medicine, I am still astonished at how much of our health is contingent upon the health of those little critters inside our gut. Earlier this year I brought patients through my first rendition of a microbiome reset and the results were impressive! Everyone who went through the program lost significant weight, improved their energy, mood, resilience, and eliminated pain. The best part, it didn't include any calorie counting, portion control, or long hours in the gym.

Let me give you a synopsis of how we did it so that you can start implementing the necessary lifestyle changes yourself.

A

Start With Digestion Good digestion is essential to eliminating and preventing food sensitivities and overgrowth of microbes that damage our health. All participants were coached on "food hygiene." This includes things such as thorough chewing of food, eating in a relaxed atmosphere (no TV), eating with others, and giving gratitude before meals.

Digestive aids such as HCl, enzymes, and bitters are used to further maximize digestive ability.

Eliminate Damaging Microbes The most important part of a microbiome reset is to use a special diet, herbs, and probiotics to remove any disease causing microbes. For diet, the most fermentable carbohydrates, sugars, and starches are eliminated in order to starve out the problematic species (consider a low FODMAPS diet). Antimicrobial herbs (berberine, Artemisia, clove) are used in tandem with probiotics such as saccharomyces boulardii to aid in this elimination process.

Sleep is extremely important for weight loss, brain health, mood, and has an impact on the microbiome. Participants learned strategies to maximize their quality of sleep. Sleep hygiene includes eliminating all things that disrupt sleep from the bedroom (electronic devices, pets, snoring or restless partners, sources of light, and electromagnetic frequencies), engaging in daytime habits to set them up for good sleep (exercise, sun exposure, keeping a regular schedule), and avoiding bad habits that disrupt sleep before bed (large meals, alcohol consumption, screen use or bright lights an hour before bed).

Eliminate Damaging Foods

Thyroid Function

The first part of the reset includes removing any foods that are damaging the intestines and causing system wide inflammation; which leads to weight gain, mood disorders, and is a major contributor to pain. By following an elimination diet we are able to cut off the inflammatory process and start to heal. The most common offenders to cut out are grains (especially corn and gluten grains), sugar, night shades, dairy, soy, and eggs. All processed and conventionally raised foods are eliminated and an organic, pasture raised, plant-based, whole foods diet followed.

Thyroid health was discussed in detail so that participants could learn how to identify if they have a thyroid problem.

Often poor thyroid function is missed by standard tests (TSH and free T4) and patients can go years before ever figuring out that it's their thyroid behind their weight gain, poor memory, depression, and poor gut health. Hypothyroidism, as it's called, can be due to an autoimmune disease (which is very responsive to healing the microbiome), deficiencies in nutrients (like Tyrosine, Iodine, Zinc, or Selenium), or from chronic viral infections. You can start by requesting a full panel of tests from your doctor, including: TSH, free T4, Total T4, free T3, Total T3, reverse T3, TPO, thyroglobulin Abs, and Iodine.

Seeding the Gut for Ideal Microbes After 4 weeks of eliminating the things that are damaging the microbiome it was time to seed the gut with certain probiotics and prebiotics. Most probiotics simply die in the digestive juices of our stomach, so it is important to use specialized spore based probiotics that can survive this harsh environment. Fermented foods will still have some impact so don’t overlook them, but don’t think they will solve all of your gut problems alone. Adding high quality prebiotic foods (fiber) is essential to encourage the growth of healthy microbes.

Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Measures Throughout the program participants were encouraged to work on adding more exercise, especially walking and resistance training. Exercise has been shown to improve mood, sleep, help with weight loss, and changes your microbiome.

Stress reduction is another important area addressed. From eliminating sources of stress to adding activities that decrease

Conclusion Restoring the microbiome and metabolic function to lose weight and resolve chronic health issues can be quite complex. Use this article as a guide to start investigating and putting together the pieces of your individual metabolism puzzle. If you get stuck and are not seeing the results you want, I highly encourage you to join my Metabolic Transformation Program, the second evolution of my Microbiome Reset Program. If you seriously want to change your life and are ready to commit to what it takes, this program is for you.

Dr. Schull is an expert in guiding others to heal their microbiome, gut health, and brain health. Check out his website at www.reclaimmybrain.com or call Pediatric & Family Center for Natural Medicine to schedule a consult. 203.265.0444.

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The Critical Functions of the Gut Microbiome

By Katy Firisin, ND

W

hat is a microbiome? And why is this daunting biological term important to understanding our health? A microbiome is a colony or ecosystem of diverse bacteria where the bacteria perform specific functions in a symbiotic environment. Theses colonies of microorganisms contain a diverse population of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. The human body has several of these systems of bacteria on the skin, in the mouth, the mammary glands, the vagina, and the gut. Each is biodiverse and carries out critical functions related to its niche in human health and function.

The Gut microbiome is the most dense of all of the human microbiomes. There are trillions of bacteria in our gut, outnumbering our own human cells by a factor of 10 and collectively these microorganisms weigh up to 2 kilograms. Within our gut, there are at least three separate microbiomes increasing in numbers and species from the stomach to the large intestine. Additionally, different bacteria can be found in the intestinal wall than what is found in the lumen, or inside, of the intestine and then excreted in the stool.

The composition of the microbiome begins at birth when the baby passes through the vaginal canal during delivery. The gastrointestinal tract of a baby at the time of birth is virtually sterile. As the baby passes through the birth canal, the mother passes critical bacteria to the baby that will begin to colonize both on the skin and internally.

Research has shown that there is a direct correlation between the microbes we inherit from our mothers and our adult microbes.

We acquire microbes from our mother through skin to skin contact, through nursing and breast milk. A recent study showed that babies born via Cesarean section have decreased diversity of microbes similar to 26

Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

that seen with the effects of antibiotics.

This difference is still seen at 6 months and gradual maturation was stagnant compared to that of vaginally delivered infants.

mechanism of dysbiosis with autoimmune disease is not yet known, however, all of these environmental substances are known to damage the gut microbiome.

As the baby develops there are other internal and external environmental factors that influence the evolution of the gut microbiota. Food, transition from breast milk to formulas, food introductions, environmental temperature and pH influences, drug therapies and antibiotic exposures, and environmental toxins influence the maturation and diversification of the gut microbiome.

Research is only scratching the surface of the different roles the gut microbiome has in the function of the body. Gut microbes have a greater capacity to code for genes than human beings and therefore carry out functions that the human body cannot carry out on its own. We are literally dependent upon these microbes to live.

Immune Function

Food Digestion Gut microbes are responsible for making certain vitamins, synthesizing amino acids, both essential and non-essential, and are part of the physiological process of making bile, necessary to digest fats. Other necessary functions involve the digestion and transformation of carbohydrates, sugars and alcohols. The metabolism of carbohydrates by microbes provides one of the main energy sources for the gut itself.

Bowel Function Irritable Bowel Disease and other autoimmune bowel diseases like Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative colitis have been linked to large abnormalities in the diversity of the gut microbes. Nearly 10-20% of adults and adolescents are affected by Irritable Bowel Disease. Autoimmune disease has been linked to environmental exposure to things such as smoking, pesticides and mercury found in vaccines until recently. The exact

By producing more good bacteria, the gut microbiomes prevent colonization of harmful bacteria. A bit like an intestinal turf war, the more good bacteria we have, the less room there is for the bad bacteria to move in and get comfortable. Given that our gut is the only internal system of our body that comes in direct contact with the outside world, it would stand to reason that the gut has to be a major part of our immune function and first line defense.

Dysregulation of gut bacteria has been linked to chronic illness, allergies and autoimmune disease. A 2014 article in Integrative Medicine states that the intestinal microbes stimulate and train the proportionate responses of the immune system, therefore any alterations to the development of the microbiome early in life can lead to an inadequately trained and overactive immune system. Researchers at the Henry Ford Hospital found that babies born via Cesarean section were more likely to have asthma and food allergies, both indicative of a dysregulated immune system.

Obesity and Diabetes The composition of microbes in obese individuals has been shown to be altered when compared to individuals of normal weight. Additionally, the population of microbes varies and changes with changes in weight. When studied, individuals with Type 2 Diabetes showed a decline in specific species of microbes. Current research is also looking at the response of microbes to exercise and may play a role in sports nutrition and peak performance.

The Gut and the Brain At least 80% of the serotonin, our “happy” chemical, is produced in our gut from enterochromaffin cells. A 2019 study in Scientific Reports found a particular strain of Clostridium bacteria regulates the activity of these cells and serotonin production. Additionally, there is a direct link to the brain via the vagus nerve allowing the brain to influence gut function and immune regulation among other things.

Restoring a Healthy Gut Microbiome Given that the majority of us have been exposed to things over time that affect the diversity and quantity of this small ecosystem in our gut, most can benefit from efforts to improve their gut health.

When choosing a probiotic, you need to look at both the diversity of the strains it contains as well as the quantity of each.

Given that there are over 1000 species of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, we need as much diversity as we can find in a probiotic. The majority of supplements in the US contain one or both of the strains Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. A commonly advertised commercial brand of probiotic frequently recommended by conventional gastroenterologists has only ONE strain of bifidobacerium. A probiotic needs to have as many strains of diverse microorganisms as possible in order to support a healthy gut. There are probiotics

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When choosing a probiotic, you need to look at the number of the bacteria as well. Further analysis of the same common commercial brand previously mentioned shows that the product contains 5 billion bacteria. A good quality probiotic will have at least 10 billion bacteria and some are available with counts over 100.

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It is a commonly held belief that probiotics need to be refrigerated. In truth, probiotics are more sensitive to light and moisture than temperature. A good quality probiotic will be in a glass jar to keep out moisture and the color is typically either brown or blue glass to keep out the light.

Refrigeration will maintain some freshness.

However, if you like to use a weekly pill organizer, keeping 7 days worth of your probiotic tucked away in a dark drawer will

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Is eating a yogurt a day enough as some yogurt commercials might have you believe? No, absolutely not! Furthermore, it is important not to simply gauge your gut health by your bowel habits alone. Many health concerns can be associated with the microbes in your gut even with regular bowel movements and in the absence of any gastrointestinal symptoms.

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1. Probiotics: Supplementing our diet with a healthy dose of microorganisms can have a dramatic effect on our health. Some form of fermented food has been included in traditional cultural diets around the world for centuries. In our current society, probiotics are commonly self prescribed by people who are health conscious or have done some research on their gut health. Giving probiotics to individuals has been included in the standard of care for most naturopathic doctors for decades. A probiotic is a collection of microorganisms that are consumed or applied to the skin. They are found in fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, kombucha or the increasingly popular Kimchi and Kefir. Probiotics can be taken in the form of capsules and powders and can be found in some topical beauty products.

available with 10 or more different strains of bacteria. Additionally, some bacteria are specifically associated with particular medical conditions. For example, the bacteria Saccharomyces is known to be deficient in the hospital infection commonly known as C-Diff, an overgrowth of the pathogenic bacteria Clostridium Difficile. Taking this unique species is condition specific. Working with a naturopathic doctor can help you navigate what probiotics you may need and finding the best products for you.

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generally have little effect on the potency.

Any extremes in the way probiotics are stored will of course affect potency.

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2. Prebiotics: A prebiotic is a non-living specific form of dietary fiber that essentially provides food for our healthy bacteria to grow. Prebiotic fiber is found in most fruits, vegetables and legumes. Foods with higher quantities of prebiotic fiber include onions, garlic, chicory root, oatmeal, wheat, asparagus, dandelion greens, barley and apples with the skin remaining on. The minimum amount of dietary fiber recommended is at least 30-35 mg, ideally in the range of 45 mg. At least 20 mg of that fiber should be prebiotic fiber. A diet high in organic fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains will improve and maintain a healthy gut by providing a happy environment and diet for our own microorganisms.

3. Fecal Transplant: Yes, you heard that correctly! A fecal transplant is a more recent medical procedure that involves removing the stool from a healthy donor and placing into the gastrointestinal tract of another in order to treat disease. Theoretically it replaces good bacteria that have been killed off by antibiotic use, allowing for the repopulation of bacteria that have been lost. The fecal transplant is being used and

studied in many countries to treat everything from arthritis to Parkinson’s Disease. Since we know many health conditions can be linked to gut health, there may be potential with this treatment to help a broad spectrum of illness. Fecal Transplants are not yet available in most countries but advancement in this treatment will be interesting to watch.

Research has barely scratched the surface of the potential impact of these small intelligent communicating organisms in our gut on our health. Scientific and clinical evidence does tell us conclusively that a healthy gut microbiome is imperative for optimal health. The majority of people can benefit from taking a good quality probiotic.

Understanding the nuances of what kind, how much, and dosing is always a great reason to consult with a naturopathic doctor.

Dr. Katy Firisin is an expert in gut health and healing as it relates to all disease.

She is a naturopathic doctor and medical director at Coastal Natural Medicine in Southport. Call 475.999.2032 to set up a complementary 15 minute consult or book your appointment today. Some insurances accepted. See ad on page 14.

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By Nick Edgerton, ND, LAc

C

BD stands for ‘Cannabidiol’ which is a compound extracted from hemp. Hemp contains CBD as well as hundreds of other plant compounds, including CBN, CBG, terpenes, resins, and even trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Hemp/CBD products do not cause the psychological changes associated with a marijuana ‘high’.

Hemp Plants Hemp plants are non-flowering male cannabis plants.Hemp plants are used in many ways such as fabrics, paper, construction, and food. Hemp oil and hemp seeds (usually seen marketed as ’hemp hearts’) have been a popular health food for decades, rich in antiinflammatory omega-3 fats and a healthy addition to a smoothie or salad. These food products have never been marketed to contain CBD or THC in the past, as the hemp seed only contains the slightest trace amounts of these compounds.

Cannabis

CBD Therapy CBD’s many uses stem from the endocannabinoid system and the effect this has on the central nervous system. The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors that bind just a few distinct endocannabinoid molecules. Yes, our nervous system has a ‘lock and key’ mechanism specific for hemp and cannabis molecules.

This system, once activated, is an important regulator in homeostasis. Think of it as keeping the nervous system balanced, not too excited or too depressed. In fact, there is evidence of a new diagnosis: Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome, with the principal symptoms being Irritable Bowel Syndrome, migraines, headaches, and chronic fatigue. All of these health concerns have shown benefit with the use of CBD and/or THC. The human body makes two endocannabinoid compounds which fit the endocannabinoid receptors, so one is not mandated to consume cannabinoid compounds. However, depending on a person’s genetics, they may make less endocannabinoids and may experience benefits from exogenous supplementation.

The female cannabis plant is usually referred to as marijuana, ‘weed’, or cannabis. The female plant will bud and flower and this The research in endocannabinoids has recently blossomed. is the combustible matter people smoke to get ‘high’. The combus- Pubmed research for ‘endocannabinoid’ finds 19 articles prior tible bud has high levels of THC, which is responsible for the psyto 1990, and currently in January, 2020 there are 9,928 article chological changes, and small amounts of CBD. The female plant contains hundreds of other plant compounds just like the male plant; however different JILL KENNEY, ND TWO CONVENIENT ratios. THC is considered an illegal drug at NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN LOCATIONS: the federal level, however, THC is a prescription medication for several diagnoses in most Specializing in the integration of naturopathic Park Avenue Medical Center states. Some states have passed recreational medicine with oncology care, combining 5520 Park Avenue traditional cancer treatments and natural cannabis laws allowing stores to sell marijuaTrumbull, CT 06611 supportive therapies including personalized diet, na, such as Massachusetts and Colorado.

CBD and THC have been touted as medicinal compounds. When isolated with modern chemical extraction techniques and then studied, the two compounds have many overlapping effects but are certainly unique.

The remainder of this article will focus on CBD and a few of its therapeutic values.

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results. Recent studies have shown CBD is beneficial for teenage social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder in adults, and public speaking anxiety. It seems like it is best taken with fat containing meals and taken in the morning if targeting anxiety.

CBD has been shown to improve sleep and reduce insomnia survey scores. This would be better taken in the evening with a meal. Anxiety and insomnia are two conditions that may respond poorly to THC, some report feeling more anxious or more trouble falling asleep when using THC. It is important to discuss your particular case with a qualified physician that is educated in CBD, this is how serving size and safety can be determined.

One of the most researched and significant benefits CBD has to offer is its reduction in seizure activity. Pharmaceutical CBD has been proven to treat various seizure disorders. At the very least it offers a possibility to reduce other anti-seizure medicines when used synergistically. This can significantly improve one's quality of life.

Consumer Updates CBD has been a popular discussion in the media, therefore products are flooding the market. Companies are selling CBD drinks, candies, oils, creams, and whatever else one can imagine. Kids, pets, elderly, and everyone else is trying CBD. CBD is being sold online, in vape stores, gas stations, and CBD stores. The quality is a spectrum. Like any health fad, there are going to be capitalistic companies looking to maximize their profit which leads to an inferior product. A 2017 consumer report showed CBD products were, more often than not, to be under-labeled, over-labeled, or incorrectly labelled. This illustrates a deficiency of product testing across the board.

The most dangerous scenario is when someone thinks they are taking just CBD but they are getting some THC in the mix as well. This is dangerous because THC has more side-effects than CBD, but also can cause someone to fail a drug test. Some CBD products are marketed correctly as ‘full-spectrum’, which means they contain the full spectrum of medical compounds in

the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC. These products may not have enough THC in them to cause someone to feel psychological changes, but it may be enough to test positive on a drug test.

Also, many CBD products may not be clean. Traditionally, herbalists used alcohol as a solvent to extract medicinal compounds from a plant. Today companies use strong solvents such as hexane and ethyl acetate (nail polish remover) to extract higher percentages, which creates a dirtier but more profitable product. There must be a certificate of analysis proving the purity of any product for consideration.

CBD legality in America is currently not clear. It had been considered a food product (not a supplement or medication), that was generally regarded as safe.

However, a pharmaceutical company that has a patent on a synthetic CBD under the prescription name ‘Epidiolex’ backed by the FDA, found in a study that their product may increase liver enzymes. As of 11/25/19, the FDA is warning consumers CBD is not generally regarded as safe. This needs to be investigated and questioned appropriately for a few reasons. First off, Epidiolex is not a natural CBD, it is a synthetic analog which costs $400+ for 1 fluid ounce. Secondly, there are many published studies involving human volunteers, primates, or mice that showed no changes in blood biomarkers. Some of these studies were single high doses, other studies were over several months. To date, there are no CBD-related overdoses or deaths.

Hopefully, CBD will be further studied with humans in a clinical setting to better standardize CBD products.

In conclusion, good quality CBD products have a balancing effect on the nervous system with many potential benefits. They are considered safe when used appropriately under the guidance of a physician. CBD is different than medicinal cannabis and THC, it should not cause one to feel ‘high’. If you are considering CBD therapy, please contact us or a qualified healthcare practitioner.

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Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

Dr. Nick Edgerton is a Naturopathic Doctor and Licensed Acupuncturist practicing with Collaborative Natural Health Partners with an interest in functional cardiology, nutrigenomics, and gastrointestinal disharmonies. Dr. Edgerton is accepting new patients at the Manchester, West Hartford, and Columbia office locations.

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Reflexology: An Ancient Healing Art for Today’s Stresses

By Lori Massey, CRT atural therapies evoke natural responses for the enrichment of mind, body and “sole.” With that thought in mind, I invite you to relax, take off your shoes, feel the ground under your feet and discover it’s time to step into your life with Reflex“ahhh”-logy. You are about to discover that a change in life is only two feet away!

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of the body and mapped them out in each correlating zone ending on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Reflexology is not to be confused with massage. Reflexology works directly with our central nervous system. It is primarily applied to our feet since we have over 7000 nerve endings on the soles of our feet. This makes them quite sensitive and responsive to the sensory input of reflexology. These reflex points act as small “mirrors” that reflect our entire body and all its parts.

Since the beginning of time, human beings have searched for new ways to maintain health, vibrancy and to ward off disease and the effects of accumulating stress on the body. Each By using specific, patterned, alternating movegeneration has had to deal with an increasingly ments and pressure of the fingers and hands, the You can take complex and stressful social environment. Stress energy blockages can be detected through the has become synonymous with everyday life. Some control of your experience of sensitivity or through the presence stress is beneficial. It motivates growth, learning health by tuning in of “gritty areas” or crystal deposits. These occur in and change. On the other hand, too much stress the part of the foot or hand that relates to the part to what your feet could cause you to suffer not only psychologically of the body that is imbalanced. When pressure but physically as well. Many doctors today accept is applied, predictable, positive changes occur have to say. that about 75% of all illnesses they treat stem from in the body. Upon completion of a session all of stress related conditions. Tension and stress cause the systems of the body have been stimulated. It the muscles in the body to contract. Constriction of our energy flow is through this stimulation and encouraging the release of toxins within the body prevents it from functioning normally and effecfrom the body that reflexology encourages the healing process to tively. Too much stress undermines your immune system and general begin. It provides the body with renewed physical and emotional health and leads to a myriad of health problems. strength.

As we are now in the new millennium, many people are being drawn to ancient healing traditions. People are now discovering that the solution to many of their health concerns may be right under their feet. Our feet provide a window of communication to our entire body. Our feet help our body to adjust and change to meet the demands of the day. Reflexology can help locate stress cues and give you the tools to help relax the stress thus impacting your health. You can take control of your health by tuning in to what your feet have to say. After all, our feet don’t lie.

The origins of Reflexology reach back to the year 2330 B.C. in ancient Egypt as evidenced by inscriptions found in a physician’s tomb in Saqqara, Egypt. Over several centuries, reflexology was introduced to the West by an American Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon. Fascinatingly enough, this surgeon has a Nutmeg State connection. In 1913, Dr. William Fitzgerald was the head of the ENT Department at St. Francis Hospital located in Hartford. He observed that pressure on specific parts of the body could have an effect on a related area. He divided the body into 10 longitudinal zones, ending in the fingers and toes. He concluded that pressure in one part of a zone affects other parts within this zone. This became known as “Zone Therapy.”

It wasn’t until the early 1930’s Eunice Ingham re-defined this term to “Foot Reflexology.” Eunice took the anatomical structures

Reflexology is not a cure for any condition nor is it intended to replace conventional medical treatment. In order to achieve a state of wellbeing, we need to pay attention to our bodies’ basic needs. We need to have a change of attitude to the factors in our lives that are creating negative stress reactions. A part of a stress management routine could include a relaxing reflexology session. It is an excellent antidote to stress and can produce deep therapeutic relaxation. Reflexology can help stimulate the brain, relieve muscle pain and headaches, increase energy level, and relieve tension and stress. It can help with better elimination of waste products, improvement of blood circulation, and enhance and balance the body’s functioning. It is also a beneficial aid for those undergoing chemotherapy treatments. Take the next step and discover the amazing world of Reflexology!

Lori Massey, ARCB Reflexologist has been practicing the healing art of reflexology for the past 16 years. She is trained in several methods of reflexology which include The Universal Method of South Africa, Rwo Shur Chinese Reflexology and The Laura Norman Method and is nationally certified by the American Reflexology Certification Board. Reflexology is available for the Feet, Hands, and Face. Services offered at Salt of the Earth Spa in Woodbury. See ad on page 14. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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Heal Your Gut to Beat Disease and Achieve Your Ideal Weight

By Brigitta Jansen, MS, CDN

W

ith 60-70 million Americans affected by digestive disorders like constipation, heart burn, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis; healing the gut has become a trendy topic. Even seemingly unrelated conditions like auto-immune disorders, skin conditions, joint pain, cancer and diabetes have been linked to gut inflammation. "All disease begins in the gut," said Hippocrates around 400 BC, without any studies whatsoever. Now, more than two millennia later, we are finding that he was right.

Who Lives in Your Gut? You may have heard of the gut flora, also called gut microbiome. It consists of 100 trillion bacteria, yeasts, viruses and parasites. Together they make up 90% of our body's cells. Many of them are beneficial and serve important functions, such as producing B vitamins and amino acids, essential for mood and energy metabolism.

In addition, they keep pathogenic microbes in check. If your gut is mostly populated by beneficial microbes, any pathogens passing through won't have much of a chance of establishing themselves and making you sick. If your gut flora is made up of too many opportunistic bacteria or you have yeast overgrowth like candida, you will be much more prone to infections and chronic health conditions.

It's Not About Calories Your weight is less determined by how many calories you take in, but rather by how you metabolize them. Fecal transfer 32

Natural Nutmeg - March 2020

studies in mice have shown that certain gut bugs like Bacteroidetes made obese mice lose weight independent of calories. It turns out that your gut microbiome determines your metabolism and how much energy you extract from your food.

Gut Dysbiosis What causes gut flora imbalances, otherwise called dysbiosis? We are exposed to a plethora of toxins, drugs and antibiotics; all of which severely damage the microbiome.

One study found that one year after a round of antibiotics the gut flora is still abnormal.

Artificial sweeteners, pesticides and food additives severely harm our friendly flora. Metals like aluminum and mercury attract yeasts and parasites, causing sugar and starch cravings, and acidity. Electromagnetic radiation increases proliferation of pathogens. Last but not least, stress is a major cause of gut dysbiosis. This includes unresolved and maybe forgotten childhood traumas which can still impair your digestion today.

Leaky Gut Gut dysbiosis and toxins over time damage the gut wall, causing "leaky gut".

This simply means that the gut wall has gaps and leaks. Microbes, toxins and partially digested food particles normally contained in the intestine can now enter the blood stream. As you can imagine, this will fire up the immune system and cause inflammation. Your immune system now starts to make antibodies to these food particles causing food sensitivities. Microbes can now easily migrate to other parts of

your body causing joint, nerve or muscle pain. Over time this process can lead to allergies, eczema, asthma and other autoimmune conditions.

Food Sensitivities Intolerance of foods like dairy and gluten caused by leaky gut are becoming increasingly common. Signs of food sensitivities and dysbiosis can be obvious, like heart burn, bloating, constipation or loose stools and cramps. Or they can be more subtle like headaches, fatigue, brain fog, frequent infections, skin rashes, mood disorders and weight gain. Often people are unaware of which foods they are sensitive to and instead tend to crave them.

Healing the Gut Restoring your gut health is essential if you want to achieve your ideal weight and beat chronic disease. To heal the gut microbiome, I use the 5R program of functional medicine. In a nutshell this means removing any toxins, microbial overgrowth, parasites and inflammatory foods; repairing the gut wall; replacing any nutrients needed for digestion; re-inoculating the gut with beneficial flora; and rebalancing lifestyle factors and sources of stress. This is not a one-sizefits-all protocol. Food sensitivity testing is very useful for identifying which foods are stressing your immune system. Common inflammatory foods include sugar, gluten, dairy, corn and soy, but sometimes healthy foods like gluten-free grains, legumes, nuts or eggs show up on the test. Following a customized food plan while healing the gut

is essential to reduce inflammation. Once the gut wall has healed, formerly reactive foods can be safely reintroduced. Microbial overgrowth and parasites, which are way more common than is recognized, can be removed with oil of oregano, berberine, wormwood, olive leaf extract and other herbs. This will make room for probiotics to repopulate the gut. Grass-fed bone broth and gelatin are excellent gut-healing foods.

Glutamine and zinc nourish the cells of the gut wall back to health, while prebiotics like inulin and arabinogalactans found in vegetables feed your healthy gut flora.

Detoxing Since toxins and especially heavy metals will always attract yeasts, parasites and other pathogenic microbes, it is essential that your gut healing program is followed by detoxing. If you do not detox, they will simply return over time. Detoxing should be done under the supervision of a practitioner since detoxing too fast or without first opening drainage pathways can lead to worsening of symptoms. Liver and kidney function, bile flow and lymphatics all need to be optimized for successful detoxing.

Do not attempt to detox if you have leaky gut, constipation or anemia; as toxins will simply be reabsorbed rather than excreted.

Healthy Gut, Healthy You True healing involves removing the root cause of disease, and not just treating symptoms. Whether you simply want to lose weight or are trying to reverse chronic disease, restoring gut health is an important part of any health journey.

Brigitta Jansen, MS, CDN, practices Functional Medicine Nutrition in Connecticut. She aims to optimize metabolism and address the root cause of chronic disease. Her nutrition philosophy is to support the body’s innate ability to heal itself with personalized diet and supplement plans. Brigitta utilizes blood chemistry, autonomic response testing and functional medicine testing to determine individual diet and nutrient needs. Her focus is on eliminating inflammation, healing the gut, and detoxing. 5 Durham Road, Suite C2, Guilford 917.975.1784 jansennutrition.com info@jansennutrition.com.

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Using Nutrition to Combat Alcohol Abuse & Dependence: A Primer

By Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition® "...[A]lcoholism is a complex geneticbiochemical disorder more closely related to diabetes or to sugar metabolic syndrome than to any behavioral or psychological disorder. ...[M]alnutrition is well-known to physicians treating alcoholics, but they nearly always assume that malnutrition is a simple, predictable consequence of heavy drinking, not a complex, contributing cause of alcohol addiction. Nutrition is certainly not seen as the effective treatment it is...[V]itamins and other nutritional factors play a potent role in countering the compulsion to drink." ~ The Vitamin Cure for Alcoholism, Abraham Hoffer, MD, PhD, and Andrew W. Saul, PhD, Foreword by Donald R. Davis, PhD (2009)

H

ave you or your loved ones been concerned about your excessive consumption of alcohol? Perhaps you have been diagnosed with alcohol dependence (alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder/AUD), a disabling addictive disease marked by your inability to cut down or stop drinking voluntarily. Or, maybe you “just” abuse alcohol and you could change your behavior if you so chose.

Combating either form of alcohol overuse (AO) is a complex, long term process requiring personal commitment, emotional and social support and, often, professional guidance. The nutrition guidelines below can give you some of the crucial support you need to get and stay sober.

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Biochemistry, Causes, Symptoms & Consequences of AO While science has not firmly established a single cause of AO; physiological, psychological, and social factors are all thought to contribute. Research indicates that genetics may be the most important factor in alcoholism. Women, however, tend to develop alcohol-related disease at a lower quantity of intake than men.

Alcoholics and non-alcoholics process alcohol differently. In the liver, alcohol is converted to highly toxic, carcinogenic acetaldehyde. Normally, the liver quickly changes it to non-toxic acetic acid, which is then excreted as carbon dioxide and water. In alcoholics, the acetaldehyde is produced at twice the normal rate, but accumulates in the liver because its conversion to acetic acid takes twice as long. This accumulation hinders the liver’s capacity to absorb and use health supporting nutrients. The acetaldehyde also damages the body by traveling to both the heart muscle (where it inhibits its ability to create proteins), and the brain (where it blocks the ability of neurotransmitters to generate normal feelings, behavior, and memory). The unused neurotransmitters then combine with the acetaldehyde to form addictive, psychoactive THIQs, substances similar to opiates that displace endorphins (hormones that activate the body's opiate receptors, causing an analgesic effect) and interfere with their production. As the body’s natural endor-

phin supply declines, greater amounts of alcohol are needed to produce THIQs to produce feelings of well-being. (According to Kenneth Blum, PhD, a retired Professor of Pharmacology at the University of Texas, restoring the body’s natural endorphins and neurotransmitters can reduce alcohol cravings and restore normal moods.)

AO can often have physical, emotional, spiritual/social, financial, occupational, and even legal consequences, and alcoholism has been found to decrease life expectancy by 10 years. While every person’s experience with AO is as unique as they are, certain symptoms are common, including alcohol and sweets cravings, depression, anxiety/fear/paranoia, insomnia, night sweats, allergies, mood instability, low energy, and poor memory/ inability to concentrate/indecision.

Some of the more chronic health conditions associated with long term AO include metabolic damage to every cell, blood sugar ailments. severe depression, brain degeneration and psychiatric disorders, fatty liver degeneration/cirrhosis, heart disease, bone disease, increased incidents of oral cancers, and severe skin conditions.

Depression is both a cause and symptom of AO. Those suffering from depression often self-medicate with alcohol, a known depressant, thus creating a vicious cycle of alcohol abuse/dependence and a compounded mood disorder. Joan Mathews Larson, PhD, Director of Health Recovery Center in Minneapolis, notes

in her book, Seven Weeks to Sobriety that, “two-thirds of all alcoholics suffer from this potentially life-threatening disorder.” She also notes that situational/ psychological depression that results from the negative impact of AO can clear up once a drinker is sober and life improves.

However, Larson lists these seven different sources of depression in alcoholics that have deep biochemical roots: neurotransmitter depletion, unavailability of prostaglandin E1 (a fatty acid found in most tissues and organs, including the brain), vitamin/mineral deficiency, hypothyroidism, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), food/chemical allergies, and candidarelated complex (CRC/candidiasis).

Supportive Dietary Supplements Before adopting a dietary supplement regimen to combat alcohol abuse or dependence, it is ideal first to obtain various tests that can allow for regimen customization. These tests include: Complete Blood Count (CBC) (anemia, infections, blood disorders); Chemistry Profile [blood glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, liver function (critical to monitor throughout AO treatment)]; Thyroid Function; Urinalysis (diabetes, chronic UTIs, kidney function); Glucose Tolerance Test; Zinc & Copper Levels; Candida-Antibody Panel; Serum Histamine Test; Food Allergy Test; Hair Analysis; Amino Acid Assay; Kryptopyrroles Test (byproducts of hemoglobin synthesis that are excreted in urine and have no function in the body); and DHEA (if over age 40).

A full understanding of one’s health status can best inform an appropriate personalized plan that includes the nutrients below found to be most supportive of alcohol detoxification and sobriety. A holistic, nutritional approach focuses on detoxing the body to break the abuse/addiction, correcting the drinker’s body chemistry, and ensuring long term abstinence.

1. Vitamin B3 (Flush-Free Niacin/Niacinamide). Excess alcohol consumption increases the need for all of the B-complex vitamins, including vitamin B3, required to metabolize it. Abram Hoffer, MD, PhD, reports in The Vitamin Cure for Alcoholism that Vitamin B3 is also known to reduce brain levels of acetaldehyde. He further references one older, five-year study of 500 alcoholics in which niacin: (1) improved sleep, mood stability, and overall functioning of the subjects with the most serious symptoms; (2) significantly reduced tolerance to alcohol; (3) appeared to shorten greatly the course of acute toxic

brain syndrome; and (4) all but eliminated hypoglycemic reactions. Niacin is contraindicated in any drinker with abnormal liver function.

2. Vitamin C (as Ester-C). This antitoxin accelerates and improves the metabolism of alcohol’s toxic byproducts, thereby reducing alcohol-induced fatty liver and hepatitis, and reducing alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

3. Digestive Enzymes. AO interferes with pancreatic function, thereby blocking the release of the enzymes required for nutrient absorption. Critical pancreatic enzymes, combined with betaine hydrochloride (stomach acid) and pepsin (a key stomach enzyme that breaks down proteins), enhance the effectiveness of nutritional therapy.

4. GLA (Borage Oil-Source of Omega-6 Fatty Acids). Gamma linolenic acid is an important brain lipid required for the formation of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), a powerful antidepressant and anticonvulsant. Since AO reduces production of GLA, the detoxing body requires supplementation to prevent alcohol withdrawal syndrome, depression, central nervous system impairment, and liver damage.

Alcohol abusers’ long term use of this supplement is also indicated.

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5. L-Glutamine. Although this amino acid is well-known as the precursor to the neurotransmitters GABA and glutamate, no recent research demonstrates its support of alcohol abusers. Some holistic practitioners, however, report significant clinical substantiation for its role in supporting immunity and reducing alcohol cravings (especially when applied directly under the tongue), anxiety, and insomnia in alcoholics.

6. Zinc Picolinate. AO causes the depletion and deficiency of zinc, a mineral known to prevent alcoholic liver disease.

7. Chromium Picolinate/Polynicotinate.

Excess consumption of empty-calorie alcohol causes hypoglycemia when: (1) the over-taxed liver stops releasing glucose efficiently, (2) the pancreas overcompensates by overproducing insulin, which then removes too much glucose from the bloodstream, and (3) the chromium required to control abnormal glucose fluctuations is depleted. Chromium supplementation can stabilize both low and high blood sugar.

Additional supplements that support detoxification and longer term sobriety include a high potency multi-vitamin/ mineral, vitamin B6, calcium with mag-

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nesium, omega-3 fatty acids (fish/flax oil), 5-HTP (boosts serotonin, aids sleep), anticandidiasis nutrients, and liver detoxing nutrients like milk thistle and L-carnitine.

The Importance of Dietary & Psychosocial Factors Diet and emotional support are critical to enabling one to achieve and function optimally in sobriety. A healthy hypoglycemic/abstinence diet excludes simple carbohydrates/sugars, processed foods, common allergens (gluten, dairy), and caffeine, but includes healthy proteins (chicken, fish, turkey, eggs), vegetables, low-sugar fresh fruit, nuts and seeds, and gluten-free whole grains.

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Other important lifestyle changes include avoiding nicotine and seeking emotional support from friends and family members, a 12-step program/sponsor, therapist, consciousness management program, and/or a rehabilitation/outpatient treatment clinic (in more serious cases).

These resources can provide additional guidance and support: (1) Health Recovery Center, Minneapolis, MN (comprehensive nutritional, holistic care; www. healthrecovery.com; 800.554.9155); (2) Alcoholics Anonymous (free sobriety support; https://ct-aa.org/); (3) Al-Anon (free, anonymous long term life skills guidance for drinkers and their family members and friends; https://www.ctalanon.org/); (4) SAMHSA National Helpline (confidential and free referrals 24/7/365; 1-800-6624357); (5) Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation (conventional support; www.hazeldenbettyford.org/); and (6) National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) of the National Institute of Health (NIH) (conventional information source; niaaa. nih.gov/).

See this full article online at naturalnutmeg. com. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, are for educational purposes only, and are not intended to take the place of a physician’s advice. Submitted by Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®, Owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe (860.646.8178), 378 Middle Turnpike West, Manchester, CT, www.cthealthshop.com), nutrition specialists trusted since 1956. Erika is available to speak to groups. All statements in this article are practice- or scientific evidencebased and references are available upon request. See ad on page 3.

Restaurants Keeping It Real: flora: plant food + drink

By Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC

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o you like to eat out? I do! Of course, cooking at home is more cost effective and can be the healthier choice, but eating out is fun, relaxing and can be a delicious culinary treat. I have to admit that I am pretty picky about the restaurants that I choose, because I will only go if I can eat real food made with the best ingredients.

I thought that I would share how I figure that out and create a list of Connecticut restaurants that are getting it right. In the coming months, I will spotlight a different restaurant in each issue.

How do I vet each restaurant? I eat there, ask questions, talk to the staff, chef and owners if possible and look at their website.

The Questions to Ask 1. Farm to Table. Do they source their food primarily from local farms? Is this listed on the menu or a board?

2. Oils. Do they use canola, corn, sunflower, safflower, soybean, peanut or a blended oil? Will they simply use extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil if you ask?

3. Animal Protein. Do they have menu options for 100% grass-fed meat, organic or pastured chicken, wild or sustainable farm-raised fish that is carefully vetted?

4. Organic. Do they have organic options on the menu at all times (an organic salad)? Are they aware of the Dirty Dozen list from The Environmental Working Group and if so do they incorporate organic options of these foods into their menus? Are they familiar with the fact that nonGMO products can contain pesticides?

5. Ingredients. Do they use real ingredients and avoid high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors and preservatives?

6. Allergy friendly. Are the most common allergens listed on the menu (gluten, dairy, soy)? Is the staff trained to understand allergy concerns? Are they aware of the allergens in different menu items?

Do they have gluten free choices? Is the kitchen willing and able to make substitutions to accommodate a customer’s allergy or health concerns?

Flora, West Hartford, CT: plant food + drink This month I had the pleasure of interviewing Jaime Ward, one of the owners of Flora. This happens to be one of my favorite places so I was excited to take a deeper dive into “the questions”. First of all, Flora’s motto on their website is, “as vegan as you want to be” which becomes more clear when you look at the menu.

Let’s begin with sourcing. They strive to use organic and non-GMO products whenever possible. In the CT growing season, they get some produce from local farms like Young Farms in Granby, CT (they use organic practices but are not certified), and they use regional distributors the rest of the year. The produce that is organic will vary week to week but the salad greens are often organic. The chef is happy to tell you what is organic at any given time and you can order accordingly.

They use a 10% canola/olive oil blend for their salad dressings and sautéing as well as canola in the fryer. They are happy to give you extra virgin olive oil if that is your preference. In general, they avoid using artificial ingredients and preservatives.

Now for the “fauna” that they offer for the omnivores out there. The beef is 100% grass-fed and the chicken is organic and pasture-raised. The seafood includes wild panama shrimp that is 100% free of chemical additives/no phosphates or sulfites, sustainable and turtle safe and Atlantic Sapphire Salmon that are raised in a BluehouseTM that is basically a greenhouse for fish where they can grow in ideal conditions – good for the environment, the fish and our health. Although it is a small portion of the menu, it is absolutely the highest quality animal protein that I have found at any restaurant! For a plant-strong omnivore like myself, this makes me very happy.

The training process for the servers is long and rigorous so they are experts on the menu and can speak to any allergy concerns and the kitchen is happy to make substitutions if necessary.

The menu at Flora is creative, interesting and delicious and there is truly something for everyone. The last time I was there for lunch I had the Butternut Bisque and the Gado Gado Salad (Brussels sprouts, broccoli, radish, shaved cabbage, quinoa, arugula and a spiced peanut sauce). I did not have room for dessert, but if you do when you venture to Flora, get the chocolate avocado pudding! It is amazing! Visit floraweha.net Submitted by Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC, National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach.

Kathy sees clients at Natural Health & Healing, in West Hartford. healthcoach@naturalhealthandhealing.net 860.677.4600. See ad on back cover. www.NaturalNutmeg.com

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HAPPENINGS

March 2020

Sunday, March 1st Integrated Energy Therapy Basic Level with Christine Cartwright and Dan Lupacchino.

9:30am–6pm. $205. 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, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, March 3rd Exploring Spirit Art with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $35. Join Priscilla as we explore the history of Spirit Art and then quietly connect with our Spirit Team to see what they would like to create through us. Supplies are provided but you are welcome to bring your own. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, March 4th Become and Angel Reader (six sessions) with Priscilla Bengtson. 7-9pm. $250 (payment plan available). Gain a deeper connection with the angelic realm and learn to become a reader with the angels. Explore the history of angels and get know the Archangels and how they present to you. We’ll use Angel Oracle cards (provide your own) and then learn to not use them and trust your intuition. Class meets March 4, 18, April 1, 15, 22 and May 6. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.psyche-institute.com.

Friday, March 6th So you want to be a Medium? with Priscilla Bengtson.

6:30–9:30pm. $65. 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, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, March 7th Shaman's Tent: Walking with Your Inner Sage.

10am–Noon. $20. Connect with your own divinity and learn how to trust it. Embrace the whole of who you are. Envision this potential through shamanic journeying, heartfelt ceremony, and wisdom sharing.

Presenter: Patricia Shannon, Shamanic Energy Practitioner. Spirit Matters at Ravenwood Holistic Center, 199 West Center St., Manchester, CT. Register with Patricia.shannon1@sbcglobal.net or 860.871.5467.

Sunday, March 8th Women’s Empowerment Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson. 10am–Noon. $25. We invite in our angels and guides to help us release those things that keep us stuck. The energy of the group helps us to release those things that no longer serve our highest good and allow us to live an empowered life. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury.

To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.

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Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg--March March2020 2020

Monthly Trance Group with Priscilla Bengtson.

6:30–8pm. $25 per session. This is a safe environment for you to explore how far you are willing to allow spirits to work with you. We'll be working with trance channeling (allowing control energies to use your mechanics) and trance healing during each session. The more you attend, the stronger your connection to Spirit will be. Class meets February 9, March 8, April 5, May 3, June 14. Check with instructor for pre-requisites. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Monday, March 9th The Forever Angels: Near-Death Experiences in Childhood and Their Lifelong Impact. 7–9pm.

Presented via Skype by PMH Atwater, international authority on near-death experiences and spiritual transformations; free at the Farmington NDE Support Group, UConn HR Conference Room, 16 Munson Road, Farmington. For information go to https://ndect.org/.

Tuesday, March 10th Full Moon Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki and Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Dan Lupacchino. 7–8:15 p.m. $35. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Dan will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, March 11th Healing in Harmony Night. 5–7pm. FREE. Participants will sit individually with a healer and receive a 10–12-minute healing. No reservation required. You will be served in the order in which you enter the Center. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, March 14th Psychic Saturday. 10am–4pm. $25 for a 20-minute reading/$50 for a 40-minute reading. Receive a private reading to connect you to guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. Local craft vendors are also available all day. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule an appointment, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Sunday, March 15th Expressions of Faith Spiritual Service with Rev. Karen Ellis. 9:30–10:30am. Love donations accepted. Rev. Karen will offer an inspirational talk, along with delivery of messages from the other side. If you are seeking a new expression of your faith, join us. Join in at 10:30 a.m. for a hands-on Healing Service. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury.

For more information, please call 860.430.9801 or visithealinginharmonycenter.com.

Go with Your Gut! Introduction to Nutrition for Gut Health. 10–11am. FREE. This introductory class will explore ways to improve your gut with an integrative nutrition approach. Class is taught by Gina Barbetta MS, RD, CDN, Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main Street, Durham. To register, please call 203.206.3873 or email nourishbyginallc@gmail.com.

The Red Barn’s Psychic Fair. Noon–5pm. $5 or food donation to the Durham Food Bank to enter.

Discounted Readings & Services. Visit our wellness practitioners and receive treatments such as Reiki, crystal healing, sound healing, magnified healing, massage and more! Visit with our psychics in the Sanctuary. Our readers are well vetted, highly skilled and sought out by many in the region! Our vendors are a variety of local artisans and wellness professionals with services and goods for sale. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main Street, Durham.

Qigong for Everyday Living with Lorelei Chang.

2–5pm. $75. This workshop will help you understand how to connect your body energy to nature to support your overall health. You will learn some Qigong exercises to help some everyday common issues such as back pain, headaches, digestive issues, and anxiety. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, March 18th Sound Healing Meditation with Priscilla Bengtson.

10–11:15am. $25. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released. Find your inner calm and walk away feeling refreshed and renewed. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.

Friday, March 20th Sound Healing Meditation with Reiki a nd Essential Oils with Priscilla Bengtson and Christine Cartwright. 7–8:15pm. $35. The use of Himalayan Singing Bowls allows for healing pathways to open and stuck energy to be released.

Christine will introduce an essential oil and offer Reiki throughout the session. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Saturday, March 21st SunDo Retreat. 9am–5pm. Donations accepted. Join us for a special one day event of Korean Taoist healing and meditation practice. Breath. Postures. Vitality.

Newcomers Welcome. 45 South Main St., West Hartford. To register or for info, contact Carol Gale 860.502.5260. Learn more: sundointernational.com Upping Your Perception Quotient. 1–3pm. $30.

Explore your Perception Quotient (PQ): an indicator for how we view the world, people, challenges, and situations. Check in with your own PQ, practice with real life situations and learn how your view could be more expansive and beneficial for your happiness, peace, and overall well-being.

Presenter: Patricia Shannon, Shamanic Energy Practitioner. At the Bridge Healing Arts Center, Farmington, CT. Register: Patricia.shannon1@sbcglobal.net or 860.871.5467.

Mediumship Certificate Program Level I with Priscilla Bengtson. Also Sun. 3/22. 9:30am–6pm. $375 (Financial assistance and payment plan available).

Create a system for yourself to work with spirit energies so that you can be accurate every time you give a reading. Whether you are using this knowledge for yourself or reading for others, this class will provide you with practical tools to improve your evidential mediumship. Certificate and manual provided. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit www.psyche-institute.com.

Sunday, March 22nd

Tuesday, March 31st

Reiki I with Christine Cartwright.

9am–5pm. $160. 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, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

What Color is Me with Shari Dorman.

6:30–8pm. $35. During this interactive workshop, explore why color is so important in our lives, the ways that colors influence and enhance our health & well-being every day, and the relationship between colors and the chakras. Learn a color breath and visualization exercise and finish with a color meditation. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Tuesday, March 24th Mediumship Mentorship with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $35. You’ve taken the classes and you still don’t feel confident in your Mediumship readings.

These sessions are designed to help you gain confidence in your readings, enhance your Mediumship training and receive personal feedback from an experienced Medium and Teacher. Class size is limited so that each person can receive the guidance they need. Check with instructor for pre-requisites. The Healing in Harmony Center, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Wednesday, March 25th Home Message Circle with Priscilla Bengtson.

7–8:30pm. $20. The session is open to anyone who wishes to practice their mediumship message delivery in a group. 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, 80 Eastern Boulevard, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.430.9801 or visit healinginharmonycenter.com.

Thursday, March 26th Go with Your Gut! Nutrition & Gut Health Series.

Also 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30. 6–7pm. $99. Join Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist, Gina Barbetta MS, RD, CD-N for a six-week series to improve gut health. Gina will guide you through a modified version of the 5-R gut protocol, developed by the Institute for Functional Medicine. The protocol helps alleviate symptoms of digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. It helps with symptoms related to gut-health such as acne, anxiety, autoimmune conditions, joint & muscle pain, migraines and more. The 5-R acronym stands for remove, replace, repopulate, repair and rebalance.

Each week, a component of the protocol will be addressed. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main Street, Durham. To register, please call 203.206.3873 or email nourishbyginallc@gmail.com.

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

Call 860.505.7278 for details.

· Certified Shamanic & Shapeshifting Practitioner · Registered Yoga Teacher: Gentle, Mixed, Shamanic · Certified Hypnotherapist & Regressionist · Spiritual Counselor, Mentor, Reader · Host “The Sacred Journey” TV Show · Workshops, Children’s Circles, Energy Healing · CT Justice of the Peace: Nature Inspired Ceremonies · International Retreats & Cruises: Shamanism, Yoga, & Psychic Development

Fertility Oasis "The place to fulfill your dream of becoming a parent, naturally."

Preconception Care, Regulate Female Cycle, Improve Female/Male Fertility, Fertility Acupuncture Dr. Nicole R. Kerr, ND, LAc 857 N. Main St Ext Suite 1, Wallingford CT 06492 www.fertilityoasis.com (203) 265-0459

Saturday, March 28th Color Wheel of Life Workshop. 1–4pm. $35. Join us for an afternoon of ceremony and intention, as we leave winter behind and enter the season of renewal.

Using principles of the color wheel of life, we will discover the power of color, intention, and personal ceremony to navigate cycles of life. Discover Your Truth Center, 3490 Whitney Avenue, Suite 205.

Hamden. Register at www.lauriingram.com/events

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www.NaturalNutmeg.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com 39 39

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

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

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

And we can help you get there.

See ad on page 35.

HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY

Dana Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® Managing Partner, TrinityPoint Wealth 612 Wheelers Farms Rd.Milford, CT 06461 Office: 203.693.8521 | Fax: 203.693.8524 dana@trinitypointwealth.com See ad on page 43.

Caroline Wetzel, CFP®, AWMA® Procyon Private Wealth Partners, LLC 1 Corporate Drive Suite 225 Shelton, CT 06484 475.232.2713 • cwetzel@procyonpartners.net www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-wetzel/ www.procyonpartners.net See ad on page 27.

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

Short-term, solution-focused, holistic and hopeful. Comfortable for first timers and those in therapy before.

HOLISTIC CENTERS

HYPNOSIS

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

Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir. 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. 203.595.0110 • mindbodytransformation.com See ad on page 24.

Joann Dunsing Hypnosis 204 Cherry Street, Milford CT 06460 203.907.7710 • joanndunsing.com I am passionate about enabling you to get the changes you want! This is accomplished by empowering you through the skillful use of NLP Neuro-linguistic programming, EFT Emotional Freedom Techniques also known as Meridian Tapping and the relaxed focused state of Hypnosis.

Mind Matters Hypnosis Center Calypso Portugaels, CCH Guilford and West Hartford, CT 860.693.6448 info@mindmattershypnosis.com www.mindmattershypnosis.com Mind Matters Hypnosis Center has been serving the community for almost 20 years. We have conducted over 40,000 successful sessions (children and adults) on every issue from weight release and smoking cessation to complex cases involving disease and addictions. Call for free consultation today. Offering remote sessions worldwide.

Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH 267 William Street, Middletown, CT 06457 860.704.9054 • mprousseau@sbcglobal.net www.micheleprousseau.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING

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

See ad on page 28.

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

See ad on page 33.

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Natural NaturalNutmeg Nutmeg--March March2020 2020

INTEGRATED MEDICINE Collaborative Natural Health Partners Kate Zachau, DO, Julia Vitali, DO, Brad Brooks, DO, Amy Smith-Bassett, nurse practioner 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com See ad on page 20.

ProNatural Physicians Group 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 860.829.0707 • www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 33.

Sophia Natural Health Center 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield, CT 06804.

203.740.9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com Tamara Sachs, MD Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt Street, New Milford CT 860.354.3304 • tsachsmd.com Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illness by uncovering and correcting the underlying root causes of your health concerns, while remaining respectful of the uniqueness and complexity that make us human. She comprehensively and thoughtfully creates personalized plans explaining why and how each area of your healing will be addressed.

See ad on page 30.

LIFE/BUSINESS/HEALTH/ ORGANIZATIONAL COACH Dr. Sonia Manganello, DM, DD, CNC Enlightened Health Partners, LLC Glastonbury, CT • 860.966.8747 soniamanganello.com Sonia is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Life, and Spiritual Coach, as well as a 4th generation clairvoyant/medium/healer.

She is the author of the Amazon Best Seller, The Perseverance Diet: 12 Steps to Mind Body Nutrition, teacher, successful entrepreneur, and motivational speaker.

See ad on page 9

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

See ad on page 22.

Collaborative Natural Health Partners Dr. Lauren Young, Dr. Ashley Burkman, Dr. Tonya Pasternak, Dr Craig Fasullo, Dr. Carolina Padilla, ND, Dr. Carissa Fioritto, ND 315 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 860.533.0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com Other locations: 107 Wilcox Road, Ste 103, Stonington, CT 06378 74 Park Road, West Hartford, CT 06119 See ad on page 20.

Jill Kenney, ND Integrative Medicine and Support Services Park Avenue Medical Center 5520 Park Avenue, Trumbull, CT 06611 61 Sherman Street, Fairfield, CT 06825 203.418.7657 • www.drjillkenney.com 781.507.1319 • drkenney360@gmail.com See ad on page 29.

Naturopathic & Acupuncture Health Center Dr. Marie Mammone, Dr. Renee Mammone, NDs John Mammone, Licensed Acupuncturist 274 Silas Deane Hwy., Wethersfield, CT 06109 860.529.1200 • www.NAHcenter.com New England Naturopathic Medical Center, LLC Lesa Werner, ND 860.308.1635 • www.drlesawerner.com See ad on page 12.

The Wellness Institute Marvin Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT • 203.847.2788 See ad on page 18.

West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine Frank Aieta, ND 301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT 860.232.9662 • www.DRAIETA.com See ad on page 19.

ProNatural Physicians Group Dr. Ann Aresco, Dr. Cora Stover, & Dr. Martin Opoku 120 Webster Sqr Rd.Berlin, CT 06037 P: 860.829.0707 • F: 860.829.0606 ProNaturalPhysicians@comcast.net www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com See ad on page 33.

NUTRITION Holcare Nutrition Vicki Kobliner MS RD 3 Hollyhock Lane, Suite 2A, Wilton, CT 06897 203.834.9949 • www.holcarenutrition.com See ad on page 20.

Grant’s Nutrition and Wellness Jane Grant, RD CD-N 37 Webster Square Road, Berlin, CT 860.357.2282 grantj@grantsnutrition.com Jane Grant is trained in integrative and functional nutrition utilizing a personalized, holistic approach to chronic disease and weight management. Integrative and functional nutrition combines the very best of modern science, clinical wisdom, and integrative therapies to address the root cause of disease and promote abundant health. Call or e-mail to schedule an appointment. Most insurance is accepted.

PHYSICIANS, M.D. Natural Health & Healing, LLC Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 41 N. Main St, Ste 207, West Hartford, CT 860.677.4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net See ad on back cover.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC Henry C. Sobo, M.D. 111 High Ridge Rd. ,Stamford, CT 06905 203.348.8805 • www.drsobo.com See ad on page 33.

ROLFING® Rolfing - The Art and Science of Body Change Sharon Sklar, BFA, MsT, Cert. Adv. Rolfer West Hartford • 860.561.4337 sharonsklarrolfing.com Rolfing®-The Art and Science of Body Change.

A dynamic 10 session bodywork series that eases pain, improves movement and restructures your body when you feel "out of whack". A hands-on and educational approach which establishes order and balance after life's injuries, stress and accidents. Since 1981.

See ad on page 18. ®

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

SKINCARE/ NATURAL BEAUTY Immortal Opulence Old Wethersfield, CT 860.712.1933 ImmortalOpulence.com Richard Fanelli, Founder/formulator of Immortal Opulence Anti-aging Skin Cream.

Coming from a family of European MDs, Richard was inspired to create this high-performance, anti-aging skin cream. Over 27 powerful ingredients of organic, wild grown botanicals from remote areas around the world. No chemicals ever. Hand crafted in small batches to assure impeccable quality.

See ads on page 20 and 36.

ORGÁNACHS Farm To Skin Westport, CT • 203.221.0435 info@organachsfarmtoskin.com organachsfarmtoskin.com CT’s premier natural beauty boutique offering clean, safe skincare and makeup. Our mission is to educate our customers on the benefits of using highperforming organic skincare. We offer a curated selection of the top brands in organic beauty. In-store organic facials from luxury Irish skincare brand VOYA and makeup application services available by appointment.

SPAS/WELLNESS CENTERS Body + Sole Spa Therapies West Hartford 860.233.7226 • bodysolespa.com Body + Sole is a skincare and bodywork collective comprised of passionate professionals who love what we do. We continuously research treatments and trends to offer the latest innovations in the beauty industry. We test every product and practice every treatment so you feel confident in us and yourself.

Imagine Float 290 West Main St., Avon 860.255.7771 • imaginefloat.com See ad on page 28.

SPIRITUAL COMPANIONSHIP Lauri Ingram Hamden, Connecticut • 203.435.5650 www.lauriingram.com Services available in person, and via zoom/skype.

Lauri Ingram is an ordained interfaith/interspritual minister, offering spiritual counseling, Crystal Dreaming, Crystal Light and Color Therapy along with workshops and ministerial officiant services.

YOGA/PILATES/ BARRE STUDIO

Alan Franzi, MS, C-IAYT, PAS Creative Edge Yoga, LLC Guilford, CT • 203.488.1700 www.creativeedgeyoga.com Alan Franzi, MS, C-IAYT, PAS has over 25 years experience as a Yoga and Movement Therapy practitioner. In addition to teaching group classes, Alan’s specialized individual therapeutic work centers on Posture Alignment Therapy and Movement Re-patterning to address the root causes of musculoskeletal pain, imbalances and other movement challenges.

Sacred Rivers Yoga East Hartford, CT • 860.657.9545 sacredriversyoga.com Paula Scopino, E-RYT 500 hour, C-IAYT, CT Licensed LMT, YACEP is the Owner/Director of Sacred Rivers Yoga and Allied Health Therapies and ‘Sacred Rivers Yoga for Every Body’, a Yoga Alliance 200 and 500 Hour Registered School, as well as a member of IAYT (International Association of Yoga Therapy.)

See ad on page 10.

Planning an Event?

List it in the NN Calendar!

Contact Diane at diane@naturalnutmeg.com to learn more!

www.NaturalNutmeg.com www.NaturalNutmeg.com 41 41

The Future is “Leading Up”!

Your Supervisor’s Success Means Room in the Spotlight for You

By Dr. Sandi Coyne-Gilbert, MBA DM MS Organizational Leadership Program Director, Goodwin University

Y

ears ago, while conducting an applicant interview, I asked the common question, “Where do you see yourself in five years?”

To my surprise, the interviewee sternly gave me an answer that was anything but generic: “I want your job.” Quite frankly, I was a bit startled.

A striking study in business culture and connections, “Leading Up” is a committed, meaningful approach to companies’ investing in their leaders. As I’ve continued to study creating effective work relationships, I often remember the bold, “I want your job” statement from that interview years prior. However, properly investing in Leading Up is not as simple as it may appear.

Leading Up is truly a professional phenomenon, committed to connections and based on building a rapport with your direct report. By raising work relationships to the utmost importance in everything from recruitment to conducting business, people recognize that they matter to their organization and, in turn, appreciate their importance to one another and the people they serve.

What Does Leading Up Look Like Up Close?

1. Do not ask what your leader can do for you. Ask what you can do for your leader. A play on John F. Kennedy’s famous inauguration address, Leading Up embraces the altruistic concept of helping your boss, and eventually the entire organization, succeed.

Ensure your supervisor is successful at work. Maintain a tireless commitment to seeking out opportunities to support your superior.

2. Recognize your supervisor’s strengths and weaknesses, and learn how you can help. What are your superior’s strong points, and what are the tell-tale signs that assistance is needed? No one — including your supervisor — is perfect, and we all come into the office with our own unique set of skills and experiences. Be self-aware. Know when to meld with the mold and know when to break it.

3. Trust the team. No relationship, particularly one in a professional setting, can flourish without trust. “Tentative” trust is not an option: develop dynamic working connections and become an authentic advocate of your company’s culture. At the end of the day, credibility counts.

4. Curiosity did not kill the cat, it helped the cat to climb.

Curiosity is key to strong leadership, as are a quest for knowledge and a love of learning. Have confidence, ask questions, examine your own perspective often.

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5. Those who initiate, innovate. Helping should be intentional, and purposeful preparation is key. Instead of solely calling attention to pitfalls or problems, aid your team with a fresh viewpoint and potential solutions.

6. In order to look ahead, have your boss’ back. Leading Up will not be successful if your boss is not confident in the work being produced and if coworkers do not feel they have an essential voice, tip-toe around transparency, or fail to encourage one another.

7. Working relationships take time. Developing trust and forming strong bonds don’t happen in a day. While you may want to rush toward a solid relationship in the workplace, first invest time in completing tasks to the best of your ability, speaking up when warranted, and falling back when necessary. A crucial cornerstone of Leading Up is promoting team positivity.

8. Asking for feedback fuels the hungry. Ask your boss for input on your work. Believe the positive responses, and use constructive criticism as a building block to make you better.

Does Leading Up mean you are guaranteed to be promoted? If the only reason you enter into Leading Up is to be like the person I interviewed so many years ago who wanted to land the boss’ job, this journey is not for you. Leading Up is intentional action in your current role. If you keep the spotlight on the success of your supervisor and the organization, your willingness to work will not go unnoticed.

Sandi Coyne-Gilbert is an accomplished leader with experience in both the education and nonprofit sectors. Coyne-Gilbert specializes in working with adult learners and is enthusiastic about instilling a passion for lifelong learning in her students. Her work with at-risk and marginalized groups provided her with unique insights into the power of education for people in transition. Beyond the educational field, Coyne-Gilbert also has experience in marketing and nonprofit leadership. Most notably, she was one of the driving forces behind the development of the Ronald McDonald House in Springfield, MA. Coyne-Gilbert brings her experiences to the classroom as program director for the master’s degree in Organizational Leadership at Goodwin University. Are you ready to make a lasting impact? She’d love to hear from you. Call us today: 800.889.3282 or learn more at www.goodwin.edu/leadership. See ad on page 13.

Dr. Di’s Corner

I

’m currently reading a thoughtprovoking book by Dr. Joe Dispenza, “The Placebo is You,” that inspired me to write this column. Here’s just a snippet: “Is it possible to heal by thought alone – without drugs or surgery? The truth is that it happens more often than you might expect. There are numerous documented cases of those who reversed cancer, heart disease, depression and others who made amazing changes in their careers, relationships and families – just with the power of the mind.” I truly believe we haven’t even come close to harnessing this power and implementing it to create our ideal life.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been insatiably curious about the way people think…their mindset type… and how it shapes their lives. I learned very early on in my doctoral program that what made people successful was not how much education or training they possessed. As an exercise physiologist, I’d spent years trying to educate people on how to change their bodies. I taught them the right kind of exercise to do…how often, how long and how intense. I taught them the right way to eat…portion size, macronutrient makeup, caloric content. I taught them recipes, shopping lists, eating clean…the list goes on and on. While most people will lose weight, the percentage of people that keep that weight off permanently is slim to none. I finally realized that making a change in your life has nothing to do with how much knowledge you have about how to make that change.

In the end, there is only one thing that matters.

If you think you can make a change; that is the only way you’ll make it.

It starts with a thought.

After I got over that shock, I learned something so valuable – that if I could create an unwanted reality, I most certainly could create a desired reality. I thought – if I was this good at creating what I didn’t want, what could I create if I really applied myself to focusing on what I did want!

As I thought back over my life, I realized that I’d been creating my reality since about the age of 14 – I just didn’t realize what I was doing. When I was in 8th grade, I really liked this boy and every night I would imagine him asking me to this upcoming dance. This went on for months – I would visualize him calling me on the phone, what he would say, how excited I would be as I accepted, what it would be like to be at the dance with him. I was creating in my mind a crystal-clear picture of this possible reality. And the important thing was, I actually believed it was possible. Well, you can guess what happened. A week before the dance, he called and asked me to go. It played out exactly as I had imagined.

Belief is a powerful thing that can work for you or against you. You can reach your wildest dreams if you believe you can, or you can remain stuck in the same old routine feeling unsatisfied and unfulfilled if you think you have no options.

If read Dr. Joe’s book, you’ll learn that people have even died because of their thoughts! If your mind is powerful enough to cause death – then what wonderful, amazing things can you do with it in this life?

If you would like more weekly or monthly inspiration, please email me to sign up at drdianehayden@gmail.com.

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