Natural Nutmeg September 2011 by Natural Nutmeg Magazine/Essential Naples Magazine

Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Living Naturally

Where Do You Want to Go and How Does a Wound Heal? Bernie Siegel, MD

September 2011

Telomeres and Healthy Aging Desmond Ebanks, MD

Raising Children Naturally Ayelet Connell-Giammatteo, PhD

Feeling Trapped by Anxiety and Stress? Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFTdx

Tired of Cellulite... Experience a Safe, Natural Way to Eliminate It NaturalNutmeg.com

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In this Issue

Telomeres and Healthy Aging Desmond Ebanks, MD 12

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 good health.

Raising Children Naturally Ayelet Connell-Giammatteo, PhD 18 Tired of Cellulite? Experience a Safe, Natural Way to Eliminate It Diane Hindman, PhD 32

Editor-in-Chief Deb Percival Deb@naturalnutmeg.com

Feeling Trapped by Anxiety and Stress? Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFTdx 36

ADVERTISING SALES Dr. Diane Hindman advertising@naturalnutmeg.com

Departments News&Notes 8 Prescription for Living 10

PUBLISHERS Dr. Diane Hindman Chris Hindman Publisher@naturalnutmeg.com

Aimee Chandler aimee@naturalnutmeg.com

ADVISORY BOARD Deanna M. Cherrone, M.D. • Desmond Ebanks, M.D. Henry Sobo, MD • Ann Aresco, N.D. • Debra Gibson, ND Richard Duenas, D.C. • C. Evers Whyte, DC, DACBN David Johnston, DO • Tom Moorcroft, D.O. Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac, LAc, CCH

Healthy Self 23 Supplements 101 24

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Healthy Cooking 27 Know Your Herbs 29 Eco Travel 38 Calendar 41 Resources 43 Yoga Pose of the Month 50

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P.O. Box 447, Avon, CT 06001 Ph. (860)206-9500 • Fax (860)263-8505

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. If you would like to receive Natural Nutmeg at your place of business please call (860) 206-9500 or email to publisher@naturalnutmeg.com. © 2007-11 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 articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your feedback.

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publisher'sletter

hy are we so afraid to ask for what we want in life? For most of us, it’s the fear of rejection. We hate to hear the word “no” and we take it so personally. I believe part of the reason is because as children we hear the word no so often; it becomes ingrained in our soul as painful and something to be avoided at all cost. But what does it really mean when someone tells us no? All it really means is that we’re still in the same place as when we started – not better off, but not worse off either. So that means that we have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Asking for something that we want can sometimes be seen as taking a risk. And in order to be successful, we know that we have to take risks. It truly scares me to think of all the outcomes that could have happened and all of the things I could have had, but I was too afraid to ask. When you start to contemplate this, it will become more painful NOT to ask for what you want, than it is to take the risk of asking. Another dilemma I often have and also see in others is knowing when to give up asking for what you want after repeatedly hearing no. There is a part of me that says, “never give up”, because I do believe that people really want to say yes to you eventually, or they get tired of saying no! And if you give up before they do say yes, you’ll never really know if you could have gotten what you were asking for. A marketing study done at Notre Dame University found the following statistics: 94% of all salespeople quit after the fourth sales call, but 60% of all sales are made AFTER the fourth call! How many sales were lost because people stopped asking? Many of us just need to learn how to ask for what we want. Here are some surefire tips to get you started: 1. Expect that you will receive what you are asking for. 2. Make sure the person you are asking is the decision maker. 3. Be clear and specific. 4. Be persistent. 5. Don’t give up. Most of the time someone tells you “no”, it has nothing to do with you personally. They could be having a bad day, they could be low on funds that month, there may not be enough trust or rapport in the relationship yet or they may not understand what you are asking for. None of these reasons is remotely personal, yet we tend to take it that way. Life is short; it’s time to start asking for what we want! In health and happiness,

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news & notes Fuller Yoga, Pilates and Massage in Glastonbury is Celebrating NATIONAL YOGA MONTH!

ome in for your Free Yoga/Pilates Pass! Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate yoga or try it for the first time and bring a friend. Come to Fuller Yoga, Pilates and Massage during the month of September and pick up your free class pass for any yoga. Pass not valid on the day of pick up. New Students Only. Passes valid through Nov. 1st. Fuller yoga is located at 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT. 06033 (860)430-9642. www.fulleryoga.com. See ad on page 35, see article on page 50.

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fuller y oga es & Ma

P i la t

NOW O

ssage P EN at 24 Glasto 50 Main St. n (860) 4 bury 30- YOG A

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Join us for our new Student Specials!

OPEN HOUSE at Ener-Heal Acupuncture Center in Marlborough

atalia Seguro-Wright, a nationally certified and licensed Acupuncturist will be holding an Open House on Sunday, September 18th from 1-3pm at Ener-Heal Acupuncture Center in Marlborough. Natalia established this home of natural, compassionate care utilizing the time honored modalities of Acupuncture, Cupping, Tui Na (Chinese Medical Massage) and Moxabustion. In addition, her center offers patients the benefits of utilizing exceptional practitioners of Amatsu Japanese Body Work, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Nutritional Counseling and Alphabiotic Integrations. Laura Mignosa, Nationally Certified Chinese Herbologist will be joining this wonderful team of healers beginning Wednesday, October 5, 2011. (Appointments for Care: 860-666-5064) Laura has been a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Herbal Therapy for almost 20 years and is both Chinese and Western trained. She is also the director of the Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies in Wethersfield since 1992. As a professional Chinese Herbologist, she uses only safe hospitalgrade herbs which are certified against contaminants, pesticides and heavy metals. Natalia welcomes Laura with an Open House that will include a Free Tongue Diagnosis and a chance to discuss any imbalances with her. Ener-Heal is located at 11 South Main Street (Exit 13 off RT 2) in Marlborough, CT. www.CTHerbschool.com & www.Ener-Heal.com.

Free Talk on “WHAT IS YOGA” at Sacred Rivers Yoga in Glastonbury

aula Scopino, of Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT, will be giving a free talk on ‘What Is Yoga’? on September 27, 2011, at 7 pm. If you have been curious as to what all the talk is about, now is your chance to find out! Come and listen to an introduction and explanation of the benefits of yoga. Experience a mini chair class and breathing exercise. Yoga for EVERY body. Please call 860.657.9545 for information and registration, or visit our website at www.sacredriversyoga.com.

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Free Informational Open House on Yoga Certification at Sacred Rivers Yoga

ave you ever wanted or yearned for more? Do you have a desire to learn about yoga, or yogic philosophy? Have you always wanted to learn how to meditate, to connect to an internal source of strength and well being, to learn tools to alleviate stress and help others, and experience vibrant health from the inside out? Please be our guest at Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, on Saturday, September 24th at 2 pm for a free informational open house on our new session for our 500 hour Yoga Alliance Registered School, as well as our Yoga Therapy Program. The 500 hour certification is currently the highest level of education recognized by Yoga Alliance. This program will deepen your teaching skills and/or your personal practice. You must be a certified 200 hour teacher in order to be considered for admission. This will also be a reunion of graduates from our 200 & 500 hour Yoga Alliance Programs. You will have the opportunity to have all of your questions answered, and, you will be able to participate in a group sharing and converse with other students currently enrolled. Tea and refreshments will be served. We are also excited to be launching the CT Yoga Teachers Association. We look forward to sharing information about that as well. If you are interested in this event, please call for information and registration, 860.657.9545. Looking forward to meeting you! www. yogaalliance.org - www.sacredriversyoga.com.

Do you know what this is? It’s called a QR Barcode & here’s how it works A QR code is a specific matrix code readable by dedicated QR barcode readers and smart phones. Users with a smartphone can download a free application called the QR barcode and then scan the image of the QR Code to display text, contact information, connect to a wireless network, or open a web page in the phone’s browser. QR Codes enable mobile smart phone users to instantly jump from the printed materials to online content with just a click. Get more information instantly, share with others via email or text message. It’s all in the palm of your hand. Look for these QR codes on selected ads throughout the magazine. We hope this new feature to Natural Nutmeg will enhance your reading. NaturalNutmeg.com

prescription for living

by Bernie Siegel, MD

Where Do You Want To Go and How Does A Wound Heal?

he title of this article may not seem to make sense but believe me the topics do relate to each other. I heard the first question from someone who was in the White House when the Pentagon was hit by the plane the terrorists took control of on 9/11. The White House was evacuated and when this person got into a cab the cabby turned and asked, “Where do you want to go?” It stopped her and made her think about her life. Where are we safe? Where do you want to go with your life? Why are you here? I think we each need to define for ourselves what life is about and understand why we are here. I believe we are here to serve and one needs to define who we are here to serve, how and when. Who is the lord you serve? For many it is a lord of accumulation and impressing others, but believe me that will not bring happiness or meaning into your life. I know from my experience counseling people who learn they are mere mortals and then truly begin to live a meaningful life. A meaningful life is always a successful life because it is not based upon accumulated wealth or objects but based upon helping those before you now, and doing what they need done. This begins to happen when we seek goodness in the world and do not project our inadequacies upon others. It happens when we stop making excuses and make meaningful choices about how we live and when we stop seeing evil and envying others. Then your life changes and you go in a meaningful direction with it. If you live in fear this is hard to do. So ask yourself another question. What am I afraid of? If you were not loved as an infant there are probably many things you fear and also find it difficult to seek goodness and love because you are not tuned in to that mode of communication and relationship. I hadn’t thought of it but I bet there are people who never consider themselves worthy of a massage or are afraid to be touched because of their treatment as infants. The ones who never have time to sit down for a few minutes of chair massage let alone an hour on the massage table. They are not capable of receiving love because they never experienced it. Their nervous system is different from the one of a child who has been loved.

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Many of you are aware that a mother is changed by breast feeding both physically and psychologically and the infant is changed by breast feeding and even a pacifier. Why and what happens? A woman who breast feeds loses weight faster after delivery as she gives of her body to nourish her child. She produces more oxytocin, the ‘love’ hormone and feels the love and bonding with her infant. The infant also produces more oxytocin and feels loved and connected to his or her mother and gains weight faster than an infant tube fed the exact same number of calories without a pacifier. If a pacifier is given the weight gain increases even with tube feedings. In my new religion, called Undo, we have three symbols. One symbol is a penny reminding us In God We Trust and the liberty to live our unique life. The second is ice because it defies the laws of physics by becoming lighter than the liquid it is derived from and floats. Thus preserving life on this planet. (No other liquid does this.) The third is a Band-Aid, to remind us that a covered wound is capable of healing without our having to do anything. When we study the heart we see why these wounds of childhood are hard to heal. Our Creator loves us and gave us the ability to heal but if one’s heart is wounded this process can be adversely affected. More studies are showing that the heart is not merely a pump. We all are aware of the stories of memories being carried with transplanted hearts from the donor’s life experience to the organ recipient’s consciousness. When the heart is forming it contains nerve cells like the brain and glandular cells like an endocrine organ and so it functions as more than a muscle. I would add that even as a pump there is a reason a heart rate of 60 is beneficial when you study rhythms and their effect on the body. To truly heal one must be a part of the fortunate minority who were loved as children, or became educated and open to love due to a loss or major illness or decided to reparent themselves and stop being afraid of experiencing life and their vulnerability. If you know who you are you are not vulnerable to the thoughts and actions of others. The ugly duckling had a hell of a life and was a part of the small minority who make it on their own, but he did, and you can too. Bernie holds a support group in Simsbury at Wisdom of the Ages the first Wednesday of each month from 7-9pm. Wisdom of the Ages, a special place to nurture your spiritual side. It's filled with items to calm the mind, heal the body & empower your spirit. They also provide massages & monthly meditation classes. Wisdom of the Ages is owned by Bernie's son & daughter- in-law, Keith & Jane Siegel. Located at 1408 Hopmeadow St. Simsbury. Please call for info or to register for Bernie's group. (860) 651-1172, www. wisdomoftheages.biz, berniesiegelmd.com. See ad on 30. Bernie also runs a Woodbridge Support Group which meets the Second and Fourth Tuesday evenings of each month at Coachman's Square, Bradley Road, Woodbridge, CT. Contact: Lucille Ranciato at 203-288-2839 or email her at lranciato@yahoo.com.

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Telomeres and Healthy Aging By Desmond Ebanks, MD

ealthy aging is a topic that gets more and more vital each year. More than 40 million Americans are 65 years old or greater and the proportion of the U.S. population over 65 is anticipated to keep increasing. Human lifespans are now at the longest they have ever been but more and more are questioning the best ways to ensure the quality of those extra years. Aging is a complex process with many contributing environmental and genetic factors. While a person’s lifespan is not absolutely programmed into their genes, longevity is dependent on genetic mechanisms. This means that a doctor can’t run a genetic test to see what age you will live to, but they can see how well or poorly you

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are aging on a genetic level. The damage that we accumulate through our lives is reflected in certain areas of our genes, and these areas in turn shape the ability of our cells to continue to function. These genetic keys to aging are called telomeres. The word means “end part,” and telomeres form the end structure of every chromosome. Telomeres have recently garnered increasing attention. There are now thousands of articles published every year on telomeres where as recently as 1995 there were less than a hundred. The popular press has been even more enthusiastic. NBC’s Today show recently featured telomeres and hailed them as the secret to aging and ABC World News even called them a modern-day Fountain of Youth.

Unfortunately, human biology does not work that easily. There is no magic pill around the corner that will turn back the aging clock. Telomere research is genuinely exciting and even revolutionary, but aging involves many factors which will prevent any silver bullet solutions. Telomeres are something like the plastic tips on the end of shoelaces. DNA molecules are formed like an extension ladder that somebody has taken and twisted along the long axis so the uprights spiral around each other. This is the famous “double helix” that James Watson, Francis Crick and Rosalind Franklin discovered in 1953. Each side of the helix is a chain of sugars, while the rungs are pairs of complementary bases. There are four bases that make the letters of the DNA alphabet: Adenine, Cytosine, Guanine and Thymine. Adenine (A) always links to guanine (G) and cytosine (C) always links to thymine (T). This complementary pairing is what allows DNA to replicate, or to make new copies. During replication, the DNA molecule is “unzipped” by enzymes. This produces two half-strands of DNA, and each can be the template to build a new complete strand. Every time one half-strand displays an A the opposite half of the rung must be a G. The machinery of the cell works along the half-strand, adding the missing letters and creating two copies of the original DNA.

There is a quirk in this process, however. The enzymes that add the new DNA bases to the growing chromosome go through a number of steps that require reading the existing strand so that they can correctly build the new bases. Effectively, these enzymes are reading the old strand a few rungs ahead of where the new strand is being built. This leads to the “endreplication problem,” where the old strand runs out of template rungs before the new strand is finished. Telomeres are repeating sequences of TTAGGG that finish off each end of a chromosome. When replication reaches these sequences, the last repeat is not rebuilt into the new strands. This preserves the meaningful genetic information but it also means every time that a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter. When the telomeres in a cell get too short, then the cell dies. This limits a cell to somewhere in the range of 40 to 60 divisions in non-cancerous cells. By looking at the length of the telomeres in a cell, therefore, scientists can tell if a cell can continue growing and dividing or if it’s near the end of its lifespan. Looking at an average length of telomeres from a larger sample of cells, such as a blood sample, will tell you how well you are aging. That is, long telomeres are directly reflective of years of healthy living, while short telomeres indicate accelerated aging. What such a test won’t do is tell you how long you have to live or what your remaining life expectancy is or what age you will live to. Some research studies using centenarians, that is, people at least 100 years old, offer the greatest demonstration of this. Living to 100 used to be extraordinarily rare but the number of centenarians has increased greatly in the last 20 years. In 1990, 37,306 Americans out of a population of 31 million were 100 or older. As of

December, 2010 that number had increased to almost 72,000 and it is estimated to exceed 600,000 Americans by 2050. Although we expect that aging equals dysfunction, centenarians tend to be healthier than the average person twenty years younger. This makes sense in that you don’t live to be a hundred years old without being healthier than the average person when you are younger. Two studies have shown that healthy centenarians have longer telomeres than ones that had conditions such as hypertension, congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, peripheral vascular disease, dementia, cancer, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diabetes. These diseases may be stereotypically part of aging, but more importantly they all progressively cause damage to cellular machinery. Finding that this progressive damage is reflected in telomeres is not surprising and it emphasizes how telomeres accurately reflect the difference between aging healthfully and aging poorly. As mentioned earlier, building a new strand of DNA uses the old one as a template except when it gets to the end. The question becomes, then, how are new telomeres created or old ones extended? An enzyme called telomerase provides the template and builds telomeres. If a person has many active copies of the telomerase enzyme in their cells, then they will have longer telomeres. By preventing premature shortening of telomeres, a high level of telomerase activity prevents premature cellular death. While high levels of telomerase activity in normal cells is beneficial, it can turn problematic in cancer cells. By itself, telomerase cannot cause a normal cell to turn cancerous. When damage to other parts of the chromosomes accumulates, however,

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cells that have a lot of telomerase can avoid one of the mechanisms that kills diseased cells. For this reason, some scientists are investigating telomerase inhibitors as a cancer treatment. Most people, of course, will want to stimulate telomerase activity. Right now there are no drugs that will do this but the good news is that the relationship between healthy living and telomere length goes both ways. Healthy living can actually extend telomeres. Improving telomerase activity or telomere length has been demonstrated by nutritional methods, reducing stress, increasing antioxidant activity, increasing physical activity, and smoking cessation. Specific nutrients that are important to telomere health include certain B vitamins, Vitamins A, C, D, and E, magnesium, zinc, and iron. The B vitamin folate (B9) is probably the most important vitamin for telomere preservation. If there is not enough folate available in the cell, some or even all of the T bases in the TTAGGG sequence of a telomere can be replaced by a similar substance called uracil. This will cause

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the telomers to be effectively truncated at the substitution site. Low folate levels also make the construction of DNA strands more difficult and error-prone. Folate is available in foods like green leafy vegetables like spinach or broccoli, beans and legumes, liver, and yeast. Vitamin B12 catalyses reactions that are important in DNA maintenance, and women taking B12 show longer telomeres than those that don’t. B12 is found in foods that come from animals, including fish, shellfish, meat, poultry, eggs, and milk. Vegans and vegetarians are particularly susceptible to having a dietary shortage. Nicotinamide or niacin (Vitamin B3) is needed for production of enzymes that regulate telomerase, so it is also very important for protecting telomere length. B3 also indirectly reduces the number of free radicals which can damage DNA in general. It is found in animal foods like organ meats, fish, milk, and eggs and in plant foods such as avocados, dates, tomatoes, leafy vegetables, peanuts, and cereal grains. Pregnant or nursing women may require higher doses of folate to ensure normal fetal neurological development. High normal levels of vitamins A and D in the blood are also associated with longer telomeres. Both vitamins operate generally against inflammation, infection, and cancer genesis, thereby helping maintain telomere length. Vitamin A is found in a wide variety of foods, especially liver, carrots, and broccoli and vitamin D is synthesized in the skin and found in fatty fish such as catfish and salmon. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that prevent DNA damage, including damage to telomeres. Plants are the more prominent sources of vitamin C, especially colorful foods like rose hips, berries, peppers, and citrus fruit. Vitamin E comes from nuts and

nut oils, tomatoes, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes. Magnesium catalyzes a wide variety of enzymes involved in DNA repair and replication, as does zinc. Adequate levels of both have been linked to increased telomere length. Both are present in a wide variety of foods, although usually at low levels. Unlike all of these nutrients, iron is linked to shorter telomeres because excess iron can create free radicals which damage DNA. While iron is vital in producing hemoglobin in red blood cells, too much can cause damage throughout the body. If all that sounds like a lot of difficult and particular dietary recommendations, remember that a generally healthy diet should help provide these nutrients in adequate amounts. A modified Mediterranean diet of multiple small meals that is based mostly on plants and is low in high-glycemic carbohydrates like refined sugars and processed food is the basis for healthy living. Such a diet will include good amounts of organic fruits and vegetables and also moderate amounts of lean meat, lowmercury fish, and poultry and also healthy monounsaturated fats. Avoiding unhealthy ingredients like chemical additives, MSG, and artificial sweeteners and saturated fats will also help. This type of diet will not only help maintain telomerase activity and telomere length, it will also have great impacts on cardiovascular health, metabolic syndrome and in helping prevent cancer. Omega-3 fatty acid and antioxidants like green tea or grape polyphenols are also both generally healthy for many biological processes and specifically linked to longer telomeres. Alternity Healthcare provides nutritional counseling to help you maintain such a healthy diet. We can also provide

high-accuracy nutritional profiling to find which nutrients you are receiving at healthy levels and which are missing and may require help from nutraceutical supplements to achieve optimal levels. Other things you can do to improve your telomeric health include reducing your exposure to oxidative stress that causes DNA damage. This means reducing both psychological and physical or environmental stress. Maintaining a healthy body composition without excess body fat is part of this, as is avoiding excess alcohol consumption and smoking. Exercise, both aerobic exercise and resistance exercise, are also vital for both overall health and for telomere maintenance. Telomeres are probably best thought of as the canaries in the coal mines of our cells. They tell us not how long we have to live but how well we have been living. Alternity Healthcare is proud to offer telomere testing to our patients so that we can use this knowledge to create a healthier road map for your continued life. Desmond Ebanks, MD is a board certified internal medicine physician specializing in age management medicine; a science-based approach to preventive wellness, bioidentical hormone modulation and optimizing health at Alternity Healthcare, LLC in West Hartford, CT. He can be reached at 860-561-2294 or online at www. alternityhealthcare.com.

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The Truth About Hydration & Today’s Youth

remember being at a t-ball game years ago with my daughter. While it was hard to imagine that someday she might actually hit the ball midair versus off a tee, it didn’t matter, for in that moment this was as good as being in the World Series! How I loved her commitment and enthusiasm. The other parents and I not only supported the fan club, we also committed to be the “snack mom” for a home game or two, bringing snacks and beverages for our home team girls. What beverage they would guzzle brought more excitement than the final inning! As parents we choose to bring a “healthy” snack and a refreshing beverage….or did we? It was more than 18 years ago that I was bringing a team drink to Kate’s games. Times certainly have changed. Through my experience as a fitness professional, coach and wellness advocate I am well aware of the marketing messages that declare these performance drinks a sideline necessity. The pressure in the selection of juices, sports drinks, flavored waters and energy drinks is mind boggling (and obnoxious!). I have heard more disagreements and seen more tears in the grocery beverage aisle when

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a parent and child attempt to ’bargain’ on what drink they will bring home. The fact of the matter is that the attractive bottle is what sells; not the contents. To top it off, some drinks have been endorsed by a celebrity so one of those must be a worthy choice… right? Oh, the myths of marketing. Here’s the truth about children, energy drinks and hydration. There appears to be no end to the new brands and types of energy drinks that continue to vie for shelf space and consume user dollars. According to the Chicago-based research firm Mintel, sales of energy/performance drinks rose more than 197% between 2004 and 2009. In June of 2011, The American Academy of Pediatrics doctors stated that children don’t need sports drinks. This study confirmed that energy drinks and sports drinks are misused among children. It recommends that parents decrease the amount of these types of drinks in their child’s diet or, in some cases, eliminate the products altogether.

by Marie Mozzi Baumuller

A side bar to the increased consumption by kids and young adults is that the increase in childhood obesity is partially attributed to these sugar-laden, high-calorie drinks. Many of these drinks have extra calories, adding extra pounds along with potential tooth decay. Recent studies show that adolescents are obtaining between 10% and 15% of their daily caloric intake from sugar sweetened beverages. To top it all off, many of these drinks are contain artificial colors and sweeteners and offer no nutritional value whatsoever. When it comes to these drinks, are they addressing the real need of proper hydration? For all kids, water is the best rehydration drink out there. More than half the body is made up of water. Proper hydration will significantly improve every function of the body. Drinking other fluids does not replace water. It is essential for cell function, metabolic function, detoxification, joint lubrication, and hydration, or lack thereof, and can seriously affect learning and performance. Dehydration can result in moodiness, poor cardiovascular performance, and poor physical performance. Whether a child is involved in exercise or not, they need to maintain proper hydration. You may hear

your child say, “I don’t like the taste of water” or “water is boring.” (I have also heard that from adult clients and athletes I coach and train!) There are ways to make water taste better, and work smarter for you. Consider juice from fresh fruit squeezed into a glass of water for additional taste. If you’re looking for a bottled product, look for an all natural water additive that could enhance the flavor of your water. Be mindful of the label and make sure you are looking for natural ingredients and no artificial sugars. If long bouts of exercise and high-intensity play are in the picture, refueling is essential. Electrolyte replenishment is important to speed up hydration; look for ingredients like sodium, potassium and magnesium. Carbohydrates and low-calorie natural sweeteners serve to provide the body with necessary energy and quick refueling. And if you can get a few added benefits like an antioxidant or immunity boost, it may be worthy of space in the grocery cart. Skip the trendy drinks, they’re expensive and many fall short of the promises they make you. As a parent it can be tough to make some of these choices with peer pressure from grocers, persuasive marketers and the kids. Studies suggest that parental food preferences directly influence and shape those of their children. So stand up and make the right choice! Water is essential to life…including your kid’s life, no doubt! Marie Mozzi Baumuller is a fitness professional, certified trainer, instructor, presenter/ speaker with 20 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. She is Spa and Wellness Director at Saybrook Point Inn and Spa and owner of FIT Ingenuity, a lifestyle wellness company. She holds specialty certifications as a Nutrition Manager with AASDN (American Academy of Sports Dieticians and Nutritionists) and is an Invincible Athlete trainer. Visit her website at www. fitingenuity.com or contact her at marie@ fitingenuity.com. Don’t miss her presentation on “If You Don’t Take Care of Your Body, Where Are You Going to Live” at the Natural Nutmeg “Empowering Me…Naturally” conference on November 12, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Visit http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com. See her at the YZchoice booth in our exhibit hall and visit www.yzchoice.com for info on natural ways to hydrate. See ad on page 21.

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Raising Children Naturally by Ayelet Connell-Giammatteo, Ph.D.

n today’s world it is vital to make natural choices whenever possible. Making the natural choice is important for two reasons: 1. to keep you and your family healthy 2. to keep the planet healthy. In recent years we all have seen and read so much about how the world continues to change. Our natural resources are diminishing. It is becoming more and more challenging to turn a blind eye to this information. We are surrounded by movies, books, magazine articles, posters/billboards, songs, and conversation focusing on this topic. The most recent powerhouse of a movie that I have seen relating to our food and the world is “Food, Inc.” This movie illustrates the current food epidemic that we are experiencing in our country. The ultimate message of the movie is to eat locally and sustainably. It is a powerful message; but for many families, turning this into reality may seem farfetched. What does it take in today’s world to raise a child naturally? A perfect place to start is in your home. Transforming your home into a natural one can be easy when following simple guidelines.

How to Change Your Home to a Natural Home Raising your child naturally won’t seem like an enormous task if you tackle one category at a time. Create an inventory of what you have in your home that is synthetic, then slowly replace these products one by one. Almost everything today has a natural substitute. Some examples: 1. Replace synthetic cleaners and detergents with natural versions such as Seventh Generation brand. Even a simple change such as this can lead to significant benefits. For my own family, when we changed laundry detergents, the ‘sleep issue’ became easier. My son began to sleep through the night, I was less restless, and my husband, with a history of asthma, had an easier time breathing. I even noticed how I no longer itched at night! 2. Replace your child’s soap and shampoo with a natural version such as Tom’s of Maine or California Baby brand. So often, we take for granted some of the symptoms that we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Changing the brand of soap you use to a more natural one can eliminate previously irresolvable issues such as daily redness or rashes on the face and even residual cradle cap on your child’s head. 3. Make the choice to only buy clothing made mostly with 18

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natural fibers such as cotton or wool, rather than polyester or acrylic. If this seems like an expensive option, consider going to children’s consignment stores. This is a growing movement. There are many children’s consignment shops in Connecticut that house great quality clothing. Often, these shops are located in trendy shopping areas. Some great options: ‘Just Kids’ in Canton, ‘Best Dressed Kids’ in Bloomfield, and ‘Max and Lily’s closet in West Hartford. Additionally, many everyday stores such as Target and Kohl’s sell 100% cotton children’s clothing. 4. Buy produce that is organic or natural and free of pesticides and growth hormones. It is true that organic foods are more expensive. Hopefully, one day, this will change. One option is to search for a local Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) co-op farm that sells memberships. These farms provide great natural produce through the warm months of the year for a reasonable price. Some CSAs provide a winter share as well. One CSA example is ‘Holcomb Farm CSA’ in Granby. Another example is Urban Oaks Organic Farm in New Britain which offers a summer CSA as well as a farm stand. A great website to search for local CSAs in your area is: www.ctnofa.org/ CSAs.htm. Another wonderful option is local farmers markets and farm stands. Farmers markets and farm stands can be a lot of fun for children and they allow you to buy straight from the farmer. When considering other types of natural foods, there are many ‘regular’ supermarkets that sell natural meats without growth hormones or other synthetic additives. 5. Eliminate soda pop and candy in the house. It may be challenging to avoid sweets altogether but making a rule of no candy in the house is a positive start. 6. Choose foods that are free of high fructose corn syrup and other added sweeteners, chemicals, partially hydrogenated oils (commonly referred to as “trans fats”), and genetic modification (GMO). Searching for recipes that can be modified to include natural sweeteners is another helpful strategy. Natural sweeteners can be substituted for sugar and other synthetic sweeteners in most recipes. Some great options for natural sweeteners include: pure maple syrup or maple sugar, pure honey, raw agave, palm sugar, date sugar, coconut syrup or coconut crystals. Some of these sweeteners can be expensive but if you can find them in bulk, you can get great prices. Maple sugar, for example, can be ordered in bulk through www. dennisfarmsmaple.com. As for GMO foods, more and more studies are finding genetic modification has negative effects. GMO foods

are outlawed in most European countries. The challenge in this country is that genetic modification is not listed on labels. Some foods that are typically genetically modified in this country include corn and soy. Currently, buying ‘organic’ means non-GMO. Ultimately, this process comes down to reading labels. As a parent, this process can seem even more challenging because it begs the question, “Do I need to change my own habits?” For a child, the most important factor is family support. Ideally, to support the child optimally, the whole family should adopt these changes. Each family member should be informed of the potential benefits of this major change in their home. In addition to the health benefits to yourself and your family, making the transition to a natural home is a great way to support the environment. There are many websites today that offer information on how a natural home can help the environment. This is one great way to involve children in the process of change.

Recommendations for Natural Health: 1. Gluten Elimination Diet: Gluten is a ‘pro-inflammatory’ food which means that when ingested, it contributes to more inflammation in the body. Inflammation is at the root of every illness in our body. By eliminating gluten from our diet we can support greater health and recovery. For children, eliminating gluten can also support quicker recovery from injury as well as a reduction in common issues such as allergies, learning and behavioral deficits, and more. A good resource on gluten sensitivity and implementing a gluten elimination diet can be found at the clinical services - treatment -nutritional wellness - gluten sensitivity page at www. InstituteofIMT.com. 2. Avoid refined sugars: Diabetes is on the rise today as documented by many researchers. To avoid this type of illness in adulthood, changes need to be made early on. 3. Avoid peanuts: Consider the recent rise in peanut allergies. Peanuts are clearly allergenic to many people. What is less recognized is how peanuts can affect those that don’t present with severe anaphylactic symptoms. One strategy is to eliminate peanuts for a period of time and catalog the changes over that period of time (recommended 3 months). Very likely, there will be great benefits in skin health, learning and behavior, breathing, and more. 4. Avoid synthetic additives in food: Read labels!

I CAN HELP YOU HEAL SPECIAL ATTENTION to chronic and difficult cases including those with “PESS” (physio-emotional spiritual stress)* *See article in November 2010 issue at naturalnutmeg.com Dr. Francis X. Tortora Chiropractor, Board Certified Craniopath 22 Fifth St., Ste. 208, Stamford, Ct. 06905 (203) 348-0678 • www.chirodirectory.com

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5. Avoid toxic chemical exposure: Always consider how you can reduce toxins in your environment and in your home. 6. Daily essential fatty acids: Every tissue in our body is made up of cells. The wall of each cell is comprised of essential fatty acids or EFAs. With any trauma or infection, at a cellular level, there is a tear in the wall of one or multiple cells that make up a structure such as an organ or vessel. To repair this tissue, the body needs essential fatty acids. But EFAs are not produced in the body—they have to be included in our diet. Unless we eat 2 tins of sardines every day, we are lacking optimal essential fatty acids! A great way to get the right amount of EFAs in our diet is to supplement with fish oils. Fish oils house concentrated EFAs. Some options would include daily cod liver oil or fish oil gel caps. 7. Daily probiotics: Probiotics provide our body with healthy bacteria to fight off infection, increasing immune strength and warding off illness. Probiotics can be taken by capsule and can also be found in yogurt. 8. Daily vegetables and fruit: Vegetables and fruit contain many nutrients and enzymes to support a healthy body. In addition, eating daily vegetables and fruit can support a healthy bowel.

Great Snack Options for Kids: 1. Cut vegetables or fruit: Lots of nutrients and enzymes. 2. Hummus and rice crackers: Good source of protein and healthy fats. 3. Sun Butter (nut butter made out of sun flower seeds) and celery or carrot sticks: Good source of protein and healthy fats. 4. Apple sauce: Apples are great for digestion and immunity. 5. Raisins and dried fruit: Good source of enzymes and nutrients. 6. Yogurt: Probiotics! Also a good source of fat. 7. Coconut water: Great electrolytes (healthier then Gatorade!) and a lower sugar content then regular fruit juice.

Sustainable Changes When making the choice to change your home to a natural home, the question of cost is always a consideration. But what is often forgotten is the cost of health. The Centers for Disease Control report that diabetes is one of the leading chronic illnesses in children today. There is an obvious rise in children’s learning and behavioral disorders—just witness today’s rise in autism spectrum disorder. The only way to make sustainable changes in our health is to be proactive in our choices. There is so much that is out of our control—the escalation of global warming, the rising cost of healthcare and education, and ultimately, other people’s choices. But when it comes to our own family, we can support each other in making better choices that will lead to greater health. Ayelet Connell-Giammatteo, PhD, PT, IMT,C is the Practice Manager and Director of Pediatrics for Regional Physical Therapy and the Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, headquartered in Bloomfield, CT. She is also the Dean of the Connecticut School of Integrative Manual Therapy (CSIMT). Dr. Connell-Giammatteo has taught courses in IMT nationally and internationally for over 15 years. She received her doctoral degree focusing in neuropediatrics, with a concentration in autism. Dr. Connell-Giammatteo is a Physical Therapist and Certified Integrative Manual Therapist. She has been practicing in the field of IMT for over 15 years. Dr. Connell-Giammatteo is a graduate of the Institute of Functional Medicine’s program “Applying Functional Medicine into Clinical Practice” focusing on nutritional wellness. See ad on page 24. 20

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ding n u o p m o C es Pharmaci ages t n a v d A g Brin ers m u s n o C o t

any compounding pharmacies have been providing services for 15 years or more, but it wasn’t until the advent of Bio-Identical Hormone Treatment (BHRT), that compounding pharmacies became hugely popular with the general public. Because the chemical structure of BioIdentical Hormones (“BHRT”) is exactly equivalent to the hormones an individual body produces, BHRT must be custom-formulated for each patient. While this is more costly than the traditional synthetic hormone replacement, recent findings of the “Women’s Health Initiative” (WHI), an extensive study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), found that synthetic hormones pose a serious health risk to women. Not so with BHRT compounds. The findings report that the solution is to replace the synthetics with BHRT, which restores the body’s hormone balance at the cellular level, identical to what the body no longer produces in effective quantities on its own.

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BHRT may have put compounding pharmacies on the map, but many people don’t fully understand how they differ from traditional pharmacies, and how they can differ from one another. Generally speaking, traditional pharmacies match patients to prescriptions; a physician diagnoses a patient’s problem and finds the pharmaceutical that’s the best match. Compounding pharmacies match prescription requirements to individual patient needs, custom formulating FDA-approved chemicals to fit the unique need of the patient, according to the attending physician’s direction. This is done for BHRT and for many other treatments as well, including Urology (erectile dysfunction and sexual health), Pain Management (injectibles and transdermals), Veterinarian, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, Lactation, Pediatrics and many, many others. For example, compounding might be done for medically necessary reasons, such as to change the form of the medication from a solid pill to a liquid; to avoid a non-essential ingredient that the patient is allergic to; or to obtain the exact dose needed. It may also be done for voluntary reasons, such as adding favorite flavors to a medication. Some benefits of prescription compounding include: • Strengths not commercially available. Compounding assures all patients that they can have the precise dose they need. • Form not commercially available. Compounding allows the best drug delivery system options for patient and physician. Oral, injection, suppository, or transdermal routes are all possible. Also, compounding pharmacies can provide many drugs not currently manufactured or in dosage forms not currently available. • Improve or eliminate undesirable flavors by substituting custom-made flavors that

kids love. Flavoring can be used in pet medications as well. • Changing the usual route of administration. For instance, a flavored sublingual (under the tongue lozenge) for a hard-toswallow pill or a transdermal cream in place of injections. • Eliminate preservatives, dyes, and potential allergens. People with asthma or hypoallergenic patients will benefit from prescriptions that are compounded preservative-free or dye-free or that use alternative “fillers.” • Sugar intolerance. Compounded syrups with non-caloric sweeteners help diabetics control blood glucose. • Discontinued drugs. Occasionally, drug companies discontinue production of effective drugs which are no longer profitable to them. If this happens, compounding pharmacists can often duplicate that formula. There are differences in compounding pharmacies: some are compounding only, others are primarily traditional pharmacies with a compounding component. Some focus on serving patients, while others serve not only patients, but physicians and specialty care practices as well. Some offer limited compounding, while others are able to compound practically any medication, including commercially unavailable drugs and drugs that are unavailable due to a shortage. Largely thanks to BHRT, consumers now have a breadth of choices when it comes to their pharmaceutical needs. With more compounding pharmacies of all sorts opening, consumers can find comprehensive, accessible options, close to home. Serving customers since 1995, Bryce Rx Laboratories, Inc. is a licensed pharmacy practice that specializes in the compounding of medications. Founder and owner Robert P. Giuliano, MS, RPH, ABDP, was previously the Pharmacy Director for two New York City teaching hospitals, as well as the founder of United States Home Health Care Company, a home IV/nursing pharmacy, before starting Bryce. Bryce works extensively with specialty care practices and institutions, with a focus on the compounding of all sterile parenternal formulations (including preservativefree and/or preserved injectables, irrigating solutions, ophthalmics, nasal sprays, etc.) Bryce is located at 30 Buxton Farms Road (Exit 35 off the Merritt Parkway), Suite 110, in Stamford, Connecticut. Phone: 800 798 7279. Fax: 866 792 7923; www.brycerx. com. We offer free patient consultations. See ad on page 5.

Healthy Self

Dr. Lauren Gouin, ND

Hidden Sources of Sleeplessness

ar too often a discussion with the doctor about poor sleep leads to a prescription for anti-anxiety medication or medication for insomnia, without looking at why someone is not sleeping. Sleep offers an opportunity to repair tissue, support the immune system and maintain hormone balance. Mood, energy, immune function and overall quality of life are compromised when a person cannot get quality sleep regularly. Because pharmaceuticals are addictive and not the best long-term solution, getting to the cause of no sleep or poor sleep is a more logical option.

Imbalanced Stress Response Made in our adrenal glands, cortisol is our main hormone to cope with stress. This hormone is supposed to start out at the beginning of the day at its highest amounts in the body, slowly declining to be at its lowest in the evening. Then, throughout the evening, this hormone is supposed to climb until it returns to its high point in the morning. This pattern can be disrupted by various insults to the body, such as chronic stress, poor eating habits, irregular sleep patterns, and lack of exercise. Proper lifestyle and an ability to cope with stress can improve sleep, as well as other health concerns, dramatically. Extra amounts of some nutrients and also specific herbs, known as Adaptogens, have been shown to not only help sleep but mitigate the effects of stress and cortisol on the body.

Hormone Balance Poor sleep and insomnia are classic symptoms of both premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause. Estrogen and progesterone levels are often not balanced when symptoms like poor sleep arise. Excessive estrogen, also known as estrogen dominance, or otherwise progesterone deficiency are the main culprits of these conditions. In these conditions, optimizing hormone detoxification, liver function and hormone communication are the keys to improved sleep.

Neurotransmitter Function Generally when someone cannot sleep, one thinks about brain chemistry. Serotonin is the backbone of one of the main hormones for sleep: melatonin. Serotonin requires many nutrients for its production, including B12, iron, folate and more. It’s common for people to be deficient in these nutrients and the deficiencies can cause sleep disturbances. Chronic pain, inflammation, stress, and hormone imbalance will also decrease the production of serotonin and thus melatonin. Other neurotransmitters such as GABA, taurine and dopamine also play a role in balanced sleep and have similar biochemical pathways and cofactors. Supporting these pathways, instead of putting a pharmaceutical band-aid on them, can prompt lasting drug free sleep.

Healthy Body Composition Sleep apnea typically does not manifest as insomnia or failing to fall or stay asleep, however, frequent interrupted sleep due to abnormal breathing will not allow sleep to be restful or restorative. Profound fatigue is often a major clue for sleep apnea. The biggest risk is being overweight, however, if abnormal breathing patterns are suspected, a sleep study should be done to determine proper oxygen levels in the body. After a night’s sleep in a sleep lab, physicians will offer tools like a CPAP machine to aid in maintaining healthy levels of oxygen, or might focus on weight loss. Both of these options will improve sleep and overall health.

Inflammation Regulation and Infection Management There have been many studies correlating inflammatory markers to insomnia. The exact relationship is yet to be determined, however, physicians and researchers alike have found that treating underlying infections and inflammation has been shown to resolve sleep disturbances. Case studies have shown that autoimmune conditions, as well as tick borne illnesses such as Babesia, could cause nightsweats, insomnia and other sleep

disturbances. Once the immune imbalance or the infection was treated these symptoms cleared. Especially with other symptoms present, poor sleep may be a sign of the body being inflamed.

Blood Sugar Control When a person gets a good night’s sleep, s/he doesn’t eat or drink for 8 hours straight. During the day, that would be a difficult task for most people. But during the night, we all ask this of our bodies. The Somogyi effect describes the situation where, during a night’s sleep, blood sugar levels dip and then rebound to be elevated in the morning. Oftentimes patients complain of falling asleep but then waking frequently. Unstable blood sugar levels will often force people out of sleep in the middle of the night, leaving them very frustrated in the morning. Proper meal plans throughout the day as well as protein before bed may help alleviate this pattern. With all the different causes of poor sleep, there is no one natural treatment to cure all sleeplessness. Looking at the person’s physique, mood, energy level, diet and other symptoms may reveal not only why the person is not sleeping, but also what needs to change in their lives to help be more balanced overall, from underlying infection or a nutrient deficiency to body composition and blood sugar control. Dr. Lauren Gouin is a board certified naturopathic physician, accepting new patients for her family practice in Manchester, CT. Dr. Gouin is in network with most insurance companies. For an appointment or more information, please call (860)533-0179 or visit www.ctnaturalhealth.com. See ad on page 33. Don’t miss her presentation on “Pesticides, Solvents, Plastics and More...Understanding Detoxification” at the Natural Nutmeg “Empowering Me…Naturally” conference on November 12, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. To learn more, visit http:// empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com.

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Supplements 101

Debra Gibson, ND

Putting Out the Fires: Natural Support for Autoimmunity

utoimmunity, the inappropriate targeting and attacking of healthy body cells by the immune system, is an abnormal process which may be expressed in many ways and which encompasses over a hundred conditions, among them rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), multiple sclerosis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Grave’s disease, celiac disease, ankylosing spondylitis, myasthenia gravis, psoriasis, and Sjogren’s disease. Although there is wide variation in the symptoms and course of individual autoimmune conditions, the common denominator for all of them is the misuse of immune power towards self, which, depending on the type of autoimmune condition, may either cause damage in a localized way to specific body tissues, or systemically, to multiple tissues and organs throughout the body. While some autoimmune conditions have a genetic component, the degree to which the genetic tendency is expressed can be significantly altered by lifestyle, environment and nutrition.

Inflammation and Autoimmunity It’s unfortunate that the immune system gets all the blame here, because while it’s true that autoimmune conditions are the result of an immune system with an attitude problem, to focus only on the “immune system gone bad” neglects the important issue of why? The useful and healing question to ask is, “Why is my immune system fighting me? What has caused my best protection against dangerous microbes to become so confused and hostile that it turns against the body it has been so beautifully designed to defend?” The simplest answer to these questions seems to lie in the pro-

cess of inflammation. The inflammatory connection to autoimmunity, both as a cause and an effect, is clearly established, so no matter what autoimmune diagnosis you may have, both conventional and natural therapies emphasize ways to reduce inflammation in the body. In doing so, inflammatory triggers for immune misbehavior are reduced, symptoms are lessened, and the progression of the disease is slowed or stopped. Without exception, however, conventional anti-inflammatory medications are trailed by a large shadow of side-effects and often serious risk to health. Finding ways to lower the level of inflammation and immune hyper-reactivity using natural approaches makes sense and can be extremely effective.

Nature’s Anti-inflammatories It’s no coincidence that a varied, nutrient-dense, unprocessed diet containing an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is strongly protective against inflammation and autoimmune processes. Effective supplements for autoimmune disease deliver to the body high-potency versions of the anti-inflammatory nutrients found in a healthy diet.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids Omega-3 fatty acids, found in high concentration in oils derived from fish and other marine life, and in certain vegetable oils such as flax and hemp oil, may be the most fundamental supplement approach to cooling the heat of inflammation and autoimmunity. These healthy fats oppose the inflammatory effects of the Omega-6

Integrative Manual Therapy... Surpassing Expectations IMT is a form of therapy using gentle touch and subtle manipulation to identify and treat the causes of dysfunction and chronic pain. Used to treat a broad range of ailments from common aches and pains to more severe diagnoses such as autism, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis or traumatic brain injuries

scientifically-based, non-invasive IMT treatments will:

Reduce common aches and pains, including migraines n Improve attention deficit disorder and other learning disabilities n Eliminate signs and symptoms of allergies n Change the way you look with nutrition and wellness n

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fatty acid, arachidonic acid, which the modern diet provides in great excess (up to six times more than is healthy) and which skews our systems toward increased inflammation. The healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA tip the balance in the body away from pain and inflammation, and help normalize immune system and cell membrane functions. In a human study, Omega-3 fats inhibited the autoimmune response of B- and T-lymphocytes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), and protected against free radical-induced damage to kidneys, a common disease manifestation of SLE. Flaxseed oil, which is 50-60% Omega-3 fatty acids, actually decreased the numbers of specific autoimmune antibodies associated with SLE and improved kidney function in another study. (Therapeutic dosages of flax oil are 2-4 Tbs. per day.) Although flax and hemp oil have a high level of the Omega-3s, they are present in a form which requires that they be converted by the body into the anti-inflammatory fatty acids EPA and DHA, and there is reason to suspect that many people don’t perform this conversion well. For this reason, fish oil, which comes with EPA and DHA fully formed and ready to go to work, is the supplement I most often prescribe. Look for a high-quality, concentrated fish oil product, independently assayed for toxins and stabilized to reduce rancidity (when opened, the contents should not smell strongly of fish); enteric coated forms can reduce repeating and mild stomach discomfort sometimes associated with fish oils – though these issues can also indicate a poor quality supplement. A product with “triglyceride bound” EPA and DHA may improve absorption. Therapeutic amounts of combined EPA and DHA are 2,000 to 5,000 mg. per day in 2-3 divided doses with meals. This is not the dose of fish oil, but rather the dose of EPA and DHA together; also, while both EPA and DHA have anti-inflammatory effects, many practitioners including myself use a higher ratio of EPA to DHA when prescribing for antiinflammatory support.

Antioxidants Because of their ability to quench inflammatory free radicals, antioxidants are an important part of the natural medicine approach to autoimmune disease. Multiple studies have shown that low serum levels of antioxidants are associated with autoimmune diseases such as Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Vitamin E (a Gamma tocopherol form), vitamin C and the complex of flavonoids associated with C, green tea catechins, proanthocyanidins, alpha-lipoic acid, beta-carotene, coenzyme Q10, selenium – all may be of benefit in helping to rebalance the immune system.

Probiotics The idea of taking probiotics (healthy GI tract microbes) to treat immune disease may seem a little far-fetched, but animal and human studies are indicating that onset, progression, length of remissions, and survival in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis may be positively affected by taking probiotic supplements. This is partly attributable to the roles probiotics play in promoting better microbe balance in the gut and in maintaining a healthy intestinal lining, thereby lessening overstimulation of the immune response by unhealthy bacteria, yeasts/fungi, intestinal parasites, or other antigenic triggers to the immune system. However, an important factor seems to be the direct effect of beneficial digestive tract microbes on the development of a healthy, balanced systemic immune system.

Proteolytic Enzymes You’ve probably heard of taking enzyme supplements with meals to improve digestion, but specific proteolytic (protein digesting) enzymes can also be used to reduce triggers of inflammation and autoimmunity. When taken between meals, they are absorbed into the bloodstream where they go to work on protein substances in blood and tissues which promote inflammation and the autoimmune response. Good enzyme formulas for this purpose may contain chymotrypsin, trypsin, bromelain, proteases, serratiopeptidase, or rutin in various combinations, and are enteric coated to pass through the stomach for absorption in the small intestine. Doses range from 3 tablets twice daily to 4 or more tablets three or four times daily; they should be taken at least 45 minutes before or 2 hours or more after a meal.

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Curcumin This compound, which gives the yellow color to the spice turmeric, has shown benefit in animal and human studies for rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease; a 2010 animal study showed promise for sclerosing cholangitis, an autoimmune disease of the liver and bile ducts with limited conventional treatment options. Curcumin demonstrates many immune-regulating effects, which include reduction of inflammatory cytokines and the potent inflammatory signaling agent NF-kappa-B, antioxidant effects, and enhanced activity of liver detoxification pathways. There are currently available two good-quality versions of curcumin: one which has been standardized to contain 95% of the three most active curcumenoids; and a second product which provides curcumin bound to phosphatidylcholine, which should increase bioavailablility.

Plant Sterols Beta-sitosterol (BSS) and a related compound, sterolin (BSSG), are fats found in plants which help to balance the overactive immune response of autoimmune disease, and also support a healthy adrenal response to stress. While this is still more motivation to eat plenty of vegetables and fruits, there

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are supplements available which provide these phytosterols in highly concentrated form. In my practice, I use a product which contains 20 mg. of sterols (BSS), and 200 mcg. of sterolins (BSGG).

Be kind to your immune system and it will be kinder to you. Why not give your immune system some TLC? One of the best ways to show it some tender loving care is to begin a program for another kind of TLC – Therapeutic Lifestyle Change. Improving diet, drinking plenty of clean water, minimizing inflammatory foods (foods which trigger a sensitivity response and which contribute to blood sugar imbalance), reducing environmental toxin exposure, exercising, learning techniques for reducing stress, addressing sleep issues – these lifestyle habits are the foundation of a balanced, strong, but not over-reactive immune system. By combining a healthy lifestyle with targeted supplemental support, you can do much to quench the fires of autoimmune disease. Debra Gibson, N.D. practices naturopathic family medicine in her Ridgefield, CT office. She can be reached at 203-431-4443 or at drgibsonsoffice@sbcglobal.net. See ad on page 28.

Healthy Cooking

By Chef David Pianka

Papacelle Ristorante Olive Oil Poached Striped Bass

triper season is winding down and the nights are cooling off a little. This dish is perfectly suited for the summer to fall transition. Poaching fish in olive oil is an extremely delicious cooking technique that we use sometimes in the restaurant. The key is to keep a consistent temperature on the oil and not overcook the fish, of course a high quality olive oil will also be important. As with all of my recipes you will notice that the recipe will be simple and will have very few ingredients. Because of this simplicity, the freshness and quality of each ingredient will be extremely important. Dish: Papacelle Olive Oil Poached Striped Bass Category: Entree Serves: 2 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Tools: Meat thermometer

Item 2 - 8oz. filets of skinless striped bass 1.5qt. Sicilian E.V. Olive Oil Coarse sea salt (I like Bolivian Rose)

Suggested Substitutions Monk fish none none

Preparation: 1. Heat your oil in a braising pan between 160F to 170F and pat dry your filet.

2. While keeping the temperature constantly between 160F-170F, let fish cook for 8-10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 140F.

3. Salt lightly and serve with your favorite sides, or as I have done here with a simple salad of arugula, roasted red peppers, roasted yellow squash, lemon and olive oil. Don’t miss Chef David Pianka and the Papacelle cooking demo at the Natural Nutmeg “Empowering Me…Naturally” conference on November 12, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Visit http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com. See ad on page 22. NaturalNutmeg.com

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know your herbs

Andrea Candee, MH,MSC

Herbal Sore Throat Remedies

argles are an age-old method of bringing soothing substances to sore throats. While gargling might be a bit uncomfortable for an adult, it can be quite challenging for a child. To see if your child is capable of gargling liquids: • Have her hold a small mouthful of plain water towards the back of the throat. • If this is easily done, gargling can become a fun activity by vocalizing, causing the liquid to vibrate. • If vocalizing makes your child uncomfortable, simply have him retain the liquid in the throat while you count, encouraging him to hold it a moment longer. • Be sure the liquid is expectorated (spat out) so the toxins drawn out from the swollen tissue are not swallowed.

Salty Lemon Gargle The astringent properties of lemon juice and common table salt (or, for a healthier version, sea salt, found in all health food stores), when combined with warm water and used as a gargle, shrink swollen tissue. As a result, this classic blend reduces the inflammation and pain of sore throats. • Combine the juice of half a lemon with one tablespoon salt in 1/2 cup warm water. • Gargle with this mixture at least four times a day. • To further enhance the astringency and anti-microbial action of this gargle, mix the lemon and salt into 1/2 cup sage (Salvia officinalis) tea instead of plain water. To prepare a medicinal infusion of sage tea (or for any other leaf or flower tea), steep 1 heaping teaspoon of the herb in 1 cup boiled water. Cover the cup to retain aromatic oils, and steep (let sit) for 20 minutes. Strain out the herb.

Grapefruit Seed Gargle The extract of the grapefruit seed contains potent anti-microbial as well as astringent constituents that help relieve an inflamed, sore throat. • Add 4-6 drops grapefruit seed extract

(purchased in health food stores) to 1/2 glass water. • Gargle with the diluted extract, spitting it out after each gargle. • This is a very bitter preparation so you might want to put mix in some juice.

Throat Healing Herbs A sore throat may be comforted with: • Slippery elm lozenges (available at health food stores). Slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) is an herb with soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. • A diluted spray of echinacea (Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), sprayed on the back of the throat. To make this anti-microbial spray, dilute 10 drops liquid extract of each herb in 4 ounces of water. • A spoonful of raw, enzyme-rich honey (found in health food stores or from your local bee keeper) which is anti-inflammatory as well as anti-microbial is a traditional remedy for soothing the throats of opera singers before performances. Your child can lick the honey right off the spoon to experience its soothing properties as it slides down an irritated throat. • A room vaporizer containing eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus globulus). The vaporizer’s hydrating mist soothes a dry, irritated throat while the eucalyptus emits its antimicrobial properties into the surrounding air. • A tea/gargle of the soothing, anti-inflammatory herbs licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and slippery elm bark. Roots, barks and seeds are prepared differently from the flowers and leaves of a plant. To make a decoction (versus an infusion) bring 1 ½ cups water to a boil, lowering the heat so it just simmers, add 1 TB of the root, bark or seed, cover partially for 15-20 minutes as it simmers down to 1 cup. • A gargle with raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) tea, an effective astringent, can help reduce the swollen tissue of a sore throat.

While using the herbs as a gargle, echinacea, goldenseal and Vitamin C may be used several times a day to address the cold symptoms that may accompany the sore throat. If the sore throat is persistent it may be a sign of strep bacteria or something else needing medical treatment. Consider Andrea’s Rule of Three: if the situation is not improving within 3 days, get professional help. Nature really does provide an abundant pharmacy if you know how to use it! Andrea Candee, MH, MSC, is a master herbalist with a practice in Westchester County. She lectures throughout the country and at corporate wellness centers about taking charge of your health naturally. Media expert and author, her award-winning book, Gentle Healing for Baby and Child (Simon & Schuster), received The National Parenting Center’s Seal of Approval. Andrea is noted nationally for her unique and successful approach to Lyme Disease. She may be contacted through her website, AndreaCandee.com (to receive her free e-letter, click on Did You Know?), or at 877-856-7680.

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Live Your Life on Purpose:

Why Life Coaching and Self-Guided Neuro-Plasticity Can Help You Shine By Tiffany Chion

here’s a Marianne Williamson poem, Return to Love, that moves many people deeply. I believe it’s so moving because it resonates with what we already know to be true about our human experience: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous’? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we’re liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Letting our own light shine, and liberating ourselves from fear starts with small things, in both private and public moments. First, one must act authentically in every moment of our day, not numbing or ignoring our true feelings, but instead tuning into them as a guide. This means being calmly active and actively calm as we learn to live our lives on purpose, rather than life be-

ing something that happens to us. Allowing ourselves to shine, and become an authentic expression of our unique essences can be the beginning of the end of war, famine and unjust treatment around the world. Change, charity, and emotional growth start within us, and extend outward. Unfortunately, many of us feel that we are unable to consistently move in the direction of growth and light. We feel too stuck, stagnant, or busy, to map out (and stick to) a plan for our own growth. We are buried in the mire, only seeing what’s right in front of us, rather than seeing the narrative of our lives from a bird’s eye view, complete with the potential that waits for us on the horizon. When you are unable to get this big picture view, or unable to stay motivated, then there is no greater aid than another person. Another person who understands your goals and how to reach them, who cheers and applauds your successes, and provides the support you need to persevere when the road gets bumpy. Professional athletes wouldn’t think of trying to reach athletic goals without the guidance and support of their coach, because their coach is critical for helping them be their best. So then, why do the majority of us try to “go it alone” in pursuit of our life goals, without a coach of our own to help us be our best? Life-Coaching has emerged as one of the most powerful agents of positive human change: coaching can help us to feel better

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about ourselves and our world, helping us to shine brighter, and allowing that light to extend outward. Coaching helps us to implement healthy new attitudes and behaviors, and supports us in sticking with new patterns until they become habits that keep us whole and balanced. So, what does a Life-Coach do? A LifeCoach helps you assess each facet of your life, including current strengths, weaknesses, desires, and dreams. The coach then works closely with you to map out a game plan for the next phase of your life. This may include structuring a schedule to harmonize your daily responsibilities (work, family, etc…) with your daily need for self-care to maintain your overall wellbeing. What this does is, literally, transform your life by putting it in balance. Any mechanism that is in balance works more smoothly and efficiently: for a human this means a life that feels effortless and joyous--the way that it should! Imagine working with your very own strategist/teammate/cheerleader to achieve your goals. With a coach you harness the power of two minds, collaborating toward your balanced path. Some clients meet

with a coach weekly but may alternate the focus of the sessions. For example, with one client, we work on Career Coaching the first and third weeks of the month, whereas on the second and fourth weeks we focus on Healthy Lifestyle Coaching. With this approach, we work on the physical…and mental…and spiritual realms, thus ensuring balance in the client’s life. When I started my yoga studio in 2004, it felt great to help people reconnect with their beautiful bodies in a fun way. I am still a huge proponent of yoga and meditation. As I worked with clients and students, however, I realized that yoga wasn’t enough. Too often, it was just being used as a band-aid to cover the wounds and stresses of the rest of their lives. The symptoms of stress, and nearly all chronic injuries both emotional and physical, are a result of how we are living every minute of every day. It became apparent to me that a more comprehensive approach was required. One that takes the self-care and mindfulness of yoga “off the mat” and into the rest of our lives. One that is strictly adhered to as a daily practice, a lifestyle. This holistic approach to being a human isn’t taught by most of our parents, or in schools, or the workplace, but it’s a shame to waste our potential for joy and meaning simply because we’ve never been taught how to organize a balanced, healthy lifestyle! Life Coaching can assist you in mapping out a true overview of who you are, where you are now, where you’d ideally like to be, and how to get there. This means that you address your whole body, mind, and spirit, each equally important. Spiritual nourishment, physical health and well-being, mental hygiene, creative and professional fulfillment, a sensual love life, and time dedicated to growth are platforms that, together, we address individually and as a whole. In Part-2, we will be exploring how Coaching and Self-Guided Neuro-Plasticity can literally reshape our brain structure, dramatically altering our experience of life and the world around us. Tiffany Chion is a Life Coach, Yoga Teacher, Avid Gardener, and Cat Lover. If you would like to have a FREE phone consultation with Tiffany, to see if coaching is right for you, you can call 860-342-8783 or email truewellnesscoaching@gmail.com. See ad on page 21.

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Tired of Cellulite…

Experience a Safe, Natural Way to Eliminate It!

ou’re probably thinking… ”seriously…this sounds way too good to be true.” And over the years, you’ve probably seen and tried many “miracle” cures for cellulite, but none of them worked. Liposuction or plastic surgery is an option, but both are very expensive, invasive and carry medical risks. Finally, an alternative is here and it’s called the Synergie® Aesthetic Massage System (AMS). Not only is it proven safe and effective by the FDA, but there is research behind the technology to boot! So, what exactly is cellulite and how does it form on the body? Cellulite is mostly made up of fat, but it isn’t an ordinary fatty tissue. This tissue has been damaged as a result of aging and malfunctions in the body’s systems. Cellulite is a combination of fat, water and toxins trapped in a net of collagen and elastin fibers. When the body’s circulation and elimination processes become impaired, connective tissue loses its strength and unmetabolized fats and wastes become trapped just beneath the skin instead of being eliminated. Over a period of time, these wastes enlarge, harden and push through

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spaces in the connective fiber bands that anchor the skin and keep it looking smooth. These wastes cause bulges which appear as dimples and form the puckering, distorted skin effect we know as cellulite. It is most commonly found in areas of fat deposits such as on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen of most women and some men, too. Factors that may increase your chances of having cellulite include: stress, an inactive lifestyle, and using hormonal contraceptives. In addition, heredity, skin thickness, gender, the amount and distribution of body fat, and age can all influence the extent to which cellulite is present or visible. Many treatments have been promoted, ranging from dietary changes to cellulite creams. Methylxanthines are a group of chemicals that include aminophylline, caffeine, and theophyilline. These chemicals are present in many cellulite creams and

are promoted as treatments for cellulite because of their known ability to break down fat stores. However, skin creams cannot deliver the required concentration of these chemicals for the length of time required for significant fat breakdown. While studies have shown a small reduction in thigh measurements with some of these preparations, they do not promote significant loss of cellulite. Even dietary supplements such as ginkgo biloba, sweet clover, grape-seed bioflavonoids, bladder wrack extract, oil of evening primrose, fish oil, and soy lecithin have been marketed as anti-cellulite treatments. These claim to have positive effects on the body such as boosting metabolism, improving circulation, protecting against cell damage, and breaking down fats. Melissa Martin, esthetician and owner of Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center, in Avon, has been using the Synergie® AMS for years and witnesses amazing results in her clients. “I was always a skeptic when it came to cellulite treatments, but having personally experienced and seen the changes in mine and client’s bodies, I know this treatment works, not only with the reduction in cellulite and tightening of the skin, but also in circumferential body measurements. The results are amazing!” says Melissa. The Synergie® AMS uses revolutionary vacuum massage technology to improve

the appearance of skin while improving circulation. It is an easy and effective non-surgical alternative for body sculpting, resulting in lost inches. First introduced in Europe in the 80s, the original purpose of this technology was to soften burn scars. However, people began showing improvement in skin tone and spot reduction. The treatment provides optimal stimulation, stretching and pressure to subcutaneous tissues offering a type of subdermal tissue massage not possible through traditional massage techniques. A typical treatment program consists of twice-weekly sessions, followed by maintenance visits. Treatments last about 30 minutes and the number of treatments given is typically between 8 and 16, however, it is customized for each person. It is also important to note that Synergie® works with the lymphatic system, so it’s important to drink plenty of water during your treatment plan. So, what’s a treatment feel like? Imagine a deep, invigorating massage. Although it seems like you’re being “vacuumed,” it’s actually quite relaxing. Had I not been asking Melissa a million questions for this article, I might have even fallen asleep! The entire body is treated, paying extra attention to each client’s areas of concern. It uses positive and negative pressure and suction to manipulate the tissue beneath the skin and expel toxins into the lymphatic system, which is then eliminated by the body. Melissa explained that noticeable changes can often be seen within 4-6 treatments, although most people can either see or feel a difference in the skin’s appearance after the first treatment. In Melissa’s experience, clients who have done 16 treatments have lost a full pant size. She referenced a few studies, one of which reported that 36 women treated twice a week over an eight week period showed a loss of inches in 100% of the participants and visible reduction in the appearance of cellulite in 91% of the participants. In some individuals, almost three inches were lost after treatment. For me, I noticed a smoothing out of my skin around the hip and thigh area after about four treatments. Melissa explained that other benefits of the Synergie® AMS treatments include: detoxification, relief from edema, reduction in muscle pain, stress relief, increased circulation, skin tightening, and body reshaping. And even though this sounds like a miracle cure, don’t make the mistake of thinking this can replace diet and exercise. Just like any other weight loss strategy, if you’re not eating right and staying active, the results will not be as quick or effective. To veiw before and after photos, go to anewyouskincare.net, click on services and then click cellulite treatment Submitted by Dr. Diane Hindman. For more information, visit www. anewyouskincare.net or call 860-284-9730. See ad on page 20. Visit Melissa’s exhibit at the Natural Nutmeg “Empowering Me…Naturally” conference on November 12, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Visit http://empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com.

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Will You Eliminate the Drama?

y motto for a long time has been: do not create drama and do not feed it. Yet why are we so addicted to it? Why do we put ourselves in positions that we know will add drama to our lives? Is it the instant gratification of a situation that feels really good at the time, even though you know it will cause pain and suffering to yourself and others in the long run? Is it always a conscious decision or do you make choices based on some subconscious message? Is it easier to live with drama than to create a life without it? No matter what the answers to these questions are, the bottom line is that more often than not you know when you’re creating drama and sometimes you still do it. As I think about all the times in my life when I’ve either created drama or allowed myself to become entangled in someone else’s drama, I have to wonder…what was I thinking. Or maybe the better question is – was I thinking at all? And that to me is the heart of the matter. Drama can only occur when you’re not paying close attention to what kinds of thoughts you’re entertaining. It can only happen when the ego is in charge and you haven’t taken the time to step back and be the observer. Because once you do

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that and analyze your thoughts and actions from an objective perspective, you can’t help but realize that engaging in drama is really a no-win situation. So, what has the Universe presented to me this month in order for me to learn how to manage my thoughts and emotions? About a ton of opportunities to become embroiled in drama – my own and other people’s! Let’s see: there’s a friend who is going through an ugly divorce, another friend who calls me daily to get advice about dating, a friend who is unemployed right now and struggling with what to do next, two friends who are butting heads and calling me to talk about the other one and then posting random comments on Facebook to irritate each other (I should write an article on just that…social media drama), and I can probably list about ten other situations.

You can take any of these and see how one can get totally caught up in the drama if you don’t make a continuous effort to watch your thoughts. Let’s take the situation with my friend and the dating advice because you can’t get much more drama than what goes on in the dating scene – well, maybe the friend going through the divorce has more, but we’ll save that for another article. I find that most people either love dating or they hate it and just want to hurry up and find someone they’re compatible with so they can avoid the whole process. I happen to think it’s fascinating – especially to watch your friends go through it. The stories I hear never cease to amaze me about how people interact and treat each other as they’re just beginning to get to know one another. So, this friend of mine is dating a man that she’s really interested in. He’s appearing to be a tricky one. One week hot and heavy with her, the next week it seems she’s out of sight, out of mind. Of course this allows for a never ending stream of phone calls to me with the topic of discussion typically being – you guessed it, what he’s thinking/ feeling/doing. Here we go with the drama… in my friend’s own words, “do you think

there’s someone else, why doesn’t he want to spend more time with me, how come he appears to be so interested one minute and not the next, maybe he has a girlfriend, is he just not that into me,” and on and on. Now I could easily feed into her drama and spend hours on the phone analyzing his behavior of the week and I have to admit…sometimes I do. But most of the time I’m trying to get her to disengage from this thought process and spend more time focusing on herself and what she wants vs. worrying about him. One, because I really do believe that you can send positive and negative energy to people and whether they realize it or not, they can pick up on that; and two, because talking about it every day is making me crazy! Drama has a way of sneaking up on you, causing your head to spin with all kinds of negative thoughts and before you know it, you’ve spent hours creating imaginary situations in your head of the worst possible outcome. In her mind, she’s been getting dumped by this guy every other week for the last two months in a myriad of awful scenarios. We just had a conversation today because this is one of those weeks where he’s disappeared and she’s freaking out that he’s decided it’s over. I told her that she has two choices, she could either choose to live in fear, worry and anxiety about what’s going to happen next, or she could choose to be peaceful and happy and hold the space for him to come to her. If he has decided he doesn’t want to see her again, then there will

be plenty of time to cry and feel pain. Why put yourself through it now, when you don’t even know what the outcome is yet. She spends so much time wondering what he’s thinking and whether or not he likes her, that she doesn’t even give herself the opportunity to really evaluate what he can offer her and if she is truly into him. I know it’s easier said than done. We all let our thoughts and emotions get carried away sometimes, it’s human nature. But when it gets to the point that all you’re doing is working yourself into a frenzy because of some potential negative outcome that may not even happen, that’s creating drama and that’s where you need to draw the line. That’s when you need to take a step back, listen to the voice in your head objectively and become the observer. We’re all going to have negative thoughts, and it’s next to impossible to stop them when they come, but the difference between becoming consumed with them or stepping outside the ego into a peaceful place is what will allow us to live our lives free from drama. It’s a conscious choice that you can decide to make. The question is… will you eliminate the drama? Submitted by Dr. Diane Hindman. Don’t miss her presentation on “Dating, Marriage and Divorce with Dharma not Karma” at the Natural Nutmeg “Empowering Me…Naturally” conference on November 12, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Visit http:// empoweringmenaturally.eventbrite.com.

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Feeling Trapped by Anxiety and Stress?

Tap Your Worries Away Quickly with Thought Field Therapy™

hought Field Therapy™ (TFT™) is a revolutionary and dramatic body-mind therapy. TFT™, a rapid, simple and natural treatment, works with the body’s energy system and can quickly and easily produce immediate and dramatic results to those suffering from a wide variety of problems such as fears, phobias, anxiety and stress, usually within minutes. Dr. Roger Callahan developed TFT™, a simple and easy treatment that has a remarkably high rate of effectiveness. This powerful method integrates the sciences of acupuncture, the meridian system and applied kinesiology with the associated emotional problem to successfully eliminate negative and often debilitating emotional and physical responses. Utilizing the power of the body’s own energy system and stimulating specific meridian points in a precise order combined with focusing on the problem,

TFT™ techniques can help to rapidly alleviate emotional distress with profound and measurable results. Scientists have discovered that we have an electromagnetic circuitry or system of meridians throughout the body. This energy, or meridian system, known to the Chinese for over 5,000 years, appears to act as a governing force in healing and growth as well as a control system and pathway for negative emotions. There are twelve major meridians that are linked to the major organs of the body, and specific negative emotions are associated with those particular organs and meridians. Scientific evidence has shown that significant negative emotional or traumatic events experienced in life (especially those associated with fear, anxiety, shock, traumas or loss) can often be the root cause of illness, anxiety, depression and pain. These traumatic imprints can become “locked” within the meridian system causing imbalances of energy or “dis-ease” in the body. Research indicates that our thoughts and emotions can significantly affect not only

our physical health but also our mental wellbeing. Neuroscientists working with psychologists and immunologists have discovered that emotions such as love, hate, happiness and fear directly influence the nervous and immune system. These emotions cause the body to create chemicals and hormones that can either enhance or drain our energy and performance. When we think negative thoughts, experience stress or anxiety, the brain signals the release of chemicals which can weaken the immune system making the body more vulnerable to disease. Negative emotions can actually cause more negative thinking which, if not treated, could result in emotional or physical pain and illness. It is estimated that we have approximately 65,000 thoughts each day and approximately 95% of those thoughts are the same thoughts we had yesterday, and the day before that and the day before that. Each thought we have, positive or negative, creates an automatic response in the body. Every time we think about a problem or remember one, we produce a “thought field”, energy that runs through and perhaps out-

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side the body. This energy is automatically activated in the system as the movement of our eyes helps us to access information. In conversation you have probably noticed that as a person is thinking about what he or she is going to say they often look away from you. They may be looking up or down or to either side in order to access a thought or memory. This is because our eyes act very much like the cursor of a computer. When you use a mouse and point the cursor to the desired location, you can access the file you need. Similarly, as we think about a problem, the eyes automatically move up or down or to either side in order for the mind to access an image or picture. As this is happening, we associate into the emotion or thought and an automatic response or feeling is sent through the pathways of the meridians. Our thoughts, positive or negative, will influence how the chemicals or hormones will affect the body, either enhancing or depleting it of energy. With this in mind, you can understand how persistent anxiety, stress or negative thoughts and feelings may cause us to exhaust precious life-force energy and may therefore become unable to fight off “dis-ease” or illness. In some cases negative emotions can even cause our energy system to “short circuit” and actually reverse the normal polarity of the body. This reversal in energy is known as a “psychological block” and is called Psychological Reversal (PR) in TFT™. It can cause you to be angry or in a bad mood, to have destructive or negative thoughts or behavior, even depression, illness, insomnia, confusion and reversal of concepts as with numbers or directions. It can also cause self-sabotaging behavior such as over-eating and addictions or may produce other negative patterns of behavior preventing us from having what we really want. This psychological block or (PR) may cause pain or chronic conditions that may be difficult to heal and may even prevent healing from taking place. Fortunately, TFT™ has a technique that takes less than 20 seconds to complete which can eliminate the PR and allow TFT™ to be effective. This modality fascinated me because I truly believe that our thoughts shape our lives on a number of different levels. I’ve often wondered if it’s possible that your thought processes could actually manifest a phobia or anxiety about something. In my case, fear of flying. Or could I still carry a blueprint of some traumatic event that happened in a past life, and so have anxiety around the situation. In working with Diane, we discovered through TFTtm that I had two past lives in the military as a pilot, both of which ended tragically in plane crashes. In one past life, I flew a military transport plane, and there was a great deal of guilt associated with feeling responsible for the deaths of all the men on board, but not much emotional trauma associated with the loss of my own life. In the other past life, I was a co-pilot and was killed in a dog fight. I had tremendous guilt associated with leaving my family behind, and I had a sense I would die but it was an honor and duty to fight for my country. Using applied kinesiology, we found that the root cause of the fear of flying for me was dying. After the first TFT session I felt tired but relaxed. It involved a very relaxing hypnosis session which was recorded with the positive suggestions necessary. The following day I was flying to Phoenix. Typically for me, the stress starts either the night before or first thing in the morning before I’m about to take a flight. I felt no stress either time and I was actually excited to get on the plane. It was incredibly strange to be walking through the airport and really not have any negative thoughts or worry at all about getting on the plane. I even enjoyed the rush of take-off and for the first time ever, I actually slept on one of the legs of the trip. Emotional and physical traumas may deplete a person’s physical energy as well as cause a multitude of other issues. Western medicine is only now beginning to understand that health and illness

is related to our emotional state of inner harmony and balance. Simply stated, wellness is directly connected to our “thought fields,” our automatic thoughts and responses to life. Releasing negative thoughts and emotions with TFTtm can unlock the power of the body and mind, helping one feel happier and healthier and once again discover the natural joy of life. Submitted by Dr. Diane Hindman with Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFTdx, Director of Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis. Diane BahrGroth specializes in fast and effective methods for weight, stress, fear and pain reduction, smoking cessation, success and more. She is a Certified Hypnotherapist and certified in Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis. Call (203) 595-0110 for an appointment or visit www.mindbodytransformation.com. See ad on page 13.

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Eco-travel

Family Friendly, Eco-Friendly San Francisco

alm trees, a sparkling, saline-sanitized pool, an easy walk to fabulous shopping and chic cafés…and an afternoon cookies-and-milk reception? If you’re looking for a getaway where kids can be kids and adults can be adults, Hotel Del Sol is the place. Once a 1950s motor lodge, it’s now a cheerful hotel with a bit of boutique flair. To paraphrase the hotel’s website, think California Beach House – colorful, fun, and friendly. S’mores, ping pong, hammocks, a VIP welcome bag for kids (Hotel Del Sol has been recognized as a Fodor’s Choice Gold Award winner in the Best Hotels for Kids and Families category), and a convenient location are just some of the things that make this place stand apart. That the hotel management is truly committed to being eco-friendly is icing on the cupcake. Hotel del Sol is a member of the Joie de Vivre hotel management organization, and that is another plus. While we were in San Francisco we stayed at two Joie de Vivre properties (read about the lovely Hotel Drisco in an upcoming issue) that were very different on the surface – and yet quite simi-

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lar behind the scenes. (You know, behind the scenes, where all the work is done to make sure you have a great stay. Behind the scenes, where eco-friendly practices take place. That image of a duck looking serene while paddling like mad below the surface comes to mind.) Joie de Vivre, bless their corporate heart, embraces environmental friendliness, but if you’re not paying attention, you won’t know that. Obviously I don’t mind when a hotel touts their environmental efforts; that normalizes conservation. On the other hand, there are travelers who still equate conservation with deprivation. For those of you who don’t want to know your room has a low-flow showerhead; who couldn’t care less that the soaps are made locally and are free of parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances; who don’t give a hoot that many of the furnishings are sourced locally – don’t worry! You will never notice! That’s because Joie de Vivre hotels are about helping you ‘get away.’ What do you need? Handicapped access? Free parking? (In San Francisco, especially with kids, that’s priceless.) Complimentary continental

breakfast (with eco-friendly coffee and Danish made locally)? Free Wi-fi? The morning paper? Concierge service? A movie library? Free town car service to the financial district and convention centers every weekday morning? Hotel del Sol offers all of this and more. In addition to the VIP Welcome Bag for kids (which contains sunglasses, a beach ball, and a coloring book), there’s a special Concierge Closet for kids, nature dvds, and other appropriate dvds, books, and games available for lending. Also, in addition to a number of nearby child-friendly attractions, the hotel works with local kid-friendly businesses to get discounts. At the time of our visit they had negotiated discounted rates at the House of Air Trampoline Park. The combination of amenities, proximity, and eco-friendliness is appealing – kids or no kids. Just ask the Environmental Working Group. They selected Hotel del Sol for one of their recent conferences. And if your kids happen to be dogs, that’s good, too. Check out their Something to Bark About package, which, for no additional cost, includes a dog bed and, my

favorite, dog-treat turn-down service. We liked the whole scene. We felt welcomed and cared for upon checkin. We were happy and comfortable in our junior suite. The bedroom was modest but adequate and had its own TV; the bathroom was small (befitting a ‘50s motor lodge); the sitting room with TV, sofa, chair and refrigerator made the space almost too easy to hang out in. Rooms that are a better fit for kids include the “queen kitchenette,” a “double-double,” and the roomy “family suites,” which have kids’ tables and dollhouses in them – especially perfect for 2-6 year olds. When we did hear kids the noises were happy, and, happily, quiet hours extend from 10 pm to 8 am, so when we didn’t especially want to hear kids…we didn’t! Both mornings of our stay we went down to the lobby to grab coffee, Danish and bagels. The weather was cool during our stay, so we carried our sweets to the room, rather than sitting at one of the café tables outside the office. On our first day we spent a lot of time trying to pick a place for lunch, and decided on the small Pacific Catch, where they serve Pan-Asian Rice Bowls that I still miss. Then we visited the clothing shops on Union Street – what a fun place to shop! Dinner was another big decision with a great outcome. The Balboa Café was nondescript from the outside, but inside was lovely and lively, and the food was delicious. The next day we got up early, walked to Presidio National Park, and looked out at Alcatraz and the Golden Gate. After breakfast, we walked a block, jumped on the Muni, and went to Chinatown and then downtown. That evening we walked to the Marina so we could say we’d been there, with the rest of the tourists! One of the few remaining

street car stops is there, but we opted out, based on the length of the line. Because of the convenient location we didn’t take the car out much, but when we did we were delighted to return to easy onsite parking.

Green Creds: To-date, Hotel del Sol is the only hotel in the Marina District that has qualified for San Francisco Green Business Certification, and is one of only nine such certified hotels in the entire city. To qualify, the hotel had to meet criteria in purchasing practices, waste management, energy management, water conservation, pollution prevention, and staff education. The hotel’s General Manager, Gary Sterman, enthusiastically told us about the environmentally friendly cleaners used, the eco-friendly office practices, the new heat/ air conditioners with motion detector controls, and the on-going staff training. Here’s a

man who likes his job. He’s had people come to the hotel to train the staff about recycling. “They conducted training in three languages,” he reports, “and we got posters that show the difference between having everything in the trash, vs. having recyclables separated out. The difference was amazing, and helped everyone feel like part of an important effort. Plus,” he adds, “several of us participate in each of the Surfrider Foundation beach cleanups; we spend the day walking up and down the coast, picking up litter.” Gary has also involved the hotel with non-profit organizations in the community, and has created a way for guests to participate, if they would like to. The hotel donates $200 per guest room per year to organizations in the community, and guests are invited to contribute as well, by adding $1 a night to their bill. Recipients range from San Francisco’s Magic Theater to the Homeless Children’s Network to Project Night Night. The hotel also serves as a drop off center for gifts for the latter two programs. While we were there, someone dropped off 75 colorful homemade blankets for homeless children. Was it the good night’s sleep? The happy colors? The saline pool? The positive vibes from contributing to worthy causes? Whatever it was, our time at the Hotel del Sol was a feel-good stay all around. To learn more please visit their website at www.thehoteldelsol.com. Submitted by Deb Percival. Don’t miss her presentation on “Greening Your Holiday Celebration” at the Natural Nutmeg “Empowering Me…Naturally” conference on November 12, 2011 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Visit http://empoweringmenaturally. eventbrite.com.

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Let’s Get Breakfast

By Maribeth Abrams, MS, CNC

orning people swear by it. Dawn delivers enlivening energy, and great satisfaction abounds when we use that energy to accomplish everything from jogging around the lake to doing all the laundry. Why then, is our culture so steeped in first-thing-in-the-morning foods that not only slow us down, but also weigh us down and set us up to have sugar cravings and mood swings for the rest of the day? Take, for example, cold cereal and milk with banana and dried blueberries. Sure these components of a traditional breakfast can come from wholesome, organic sources. But the meal is also relatively high in simple carbohydrates, so unless we are hiking Mount Washington that day, we are delivering way too much fuel to our cells. When we deliver more fuel to our cells than they need, it’s a little like pumping gas into a gas tank that’s already full. Our body has to figure out what to do with all that excess fuel, and the answer is to store it as fat. So, even though the cereal with fruit is technically a low-fat meal, it may lead to increased fat pounds on our body. Also, the spike in blood sugar that usually occurs when we consume a significant amount of simple carbohydrate inevitably leads to a subsequent plummet in blood sugar. When our blood sugar is low, we feel lethargic and crave food that will get it back up quickly, usually reaching for foods containing sugar and/or white flour to get the job done. This, of course, leads to another blood sugar spike, fat storage, blood sugar plummet, craving…and the vicious “cookie cycle” continues. Now don’t get me wrong; whole grain cereal with banana and

dried fruit is a massive improvement over a cheese omelet or bagel with cream cheese, especially because the former is loaded with disease-preventing fiber and antioxidants. But you can get fiber and antioxidants without excessive simple carbs – and without the disease-promoting saturated fat and cholesterol found in animalbased foods. It’s all about starting the day with complex carbohydrates such as vegetables and legumes for a long, slow release of fuel to our cells. If you’re ready to take morning nourishment to the next level, here are ways to start the day with satisfying fullness without heaviness, while preventing the blood sugar blues and enjoying fabulous flavor to make you crave nothing but more of your newfound energy.

Breakfast Burrito (4 servings) 4 (6-inch) whole grain soft flour tortillas 1 can (15-ounces) vegetarian refried beans 2 cups bite-sized sautéed vegetables (e.g. zucchini, mushroom, onion, spinach) 1/4 cup salsa Arrange the tortillas on a flat surface. Evenly distribute the refried beans in the middle of each tortilla and shape into oval mounds, leaving at least 2 inches from the edge of the wrap. Evenly distribute the sautéed vegetables, salsa and optional ingredients over the beans. Fold the short ends over the filling, and roll the burritos until closed. Tightly wrap each burrito in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving. Serve cold or heated.

Breakfast Salad (1 serving) 1 1/2 cups raw greens 1/3 cup finely chopped raw cauliflower and/or chopped raw cabbage 1/3 cup chopped other vegetables 1/3 cup rinsed, drained beans 2 tablespoons dressing of choice (see below) Optional ingredients: 1 sheet toasted nori, crumbled, 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast flakes 1 tablespoon flaxmeal Place everything in a bowl and toss well. Note: Recommended dressings are free of dairy, corn syrup, and artificial sweeteners. Examples include vinaigrettes and sesame goddess. 40

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Green Smoothie (3 servings) 3 ½ cups water 3 cups raw greens 1 apple, unpeeled, cored 1 cup other fresh or frozen fruit Optional ingredients: 1-inch chunk of lemon (including the skin), ½-inch chunk of peeled ginger Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. Drink all three glasses in the morning, or refrigerate leftovers in a tightly sealed jar to finish in the mid-afternoon.

Nutritional Yeast What? You are missing out on some seriously fabulous flavor if you’ve yet to try nutritional yeast flakes or toasted nori, two ingredients mentioned in the breakfast salad. Sold in bulk bins at natural food stores, nutritional yeast flakes are loaded with B vitamins and impart a cheesy flavor. Once you sprinkle them on salad, pasta dishes, cooked veggies or chili, you’ll be hooked on the deliciousness. Store nutritional yeast flakes in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid in the cupboard. Nori sheets are best known for their sushi-wrapping quality but they also add excellent flavor and anti-oxidants to soups, stews, pasta dishes and salads. Just crumble up a sheet of nori over your meal and enjoy. Nori is sold in the sea vegetable section in natural food stores and in the Asian section of well-stocked grocery stores. It’s all about starting the day with complex carbohydrates such as vegetables and legumes for a long, slow release of fuel to our cells.

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Community Calendar Listings in red are held in Fairfield County Thursday, September 1st Heart Health - Beyond Cholesterol. Dr. David Brady, Vice Provost of the Division of Health Sciences at the University of Bridgeport and a practitioner at WholeBody Medicine, will lecture on The talk will take place on Thursday, September 1st from 12p.m. - 1p.m. at the Black Rock Senior Center at 2676 Fairfield Avenue in Bridgeport, CT. For more information call 203.576.7258. For more information about Dr. Brady, visit www.wholebodymed.com.

Friday, September 2nd Reiki 1st Degree Workshop with Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. 10am to 5pm. Also Sept. 3rd. Learn self-healing or healing for others, receive 4 meditations, manual and certificate included Take Reiki from an experienced Reiki teacher. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Avenue, Norwalk, CT ( off of Exit 16/i 95). Free private parking. Pre-Registration required at 203-852-1150 or angelhealreikigigib@snet.net. Fee $115. First Friday Crystal Bowls Sound Healing. 7 - 8:30 pm. $15. Edie Jemiola, RMT, facilitates this monthly offering. Sound used with intention can shift the energy in and around the body to help reestablish physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Bring a mat, pillow and blanket. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www.spiritmattersct.com. Register with Edie: 860-933-8145.

Thursday, September 8th Accessing Interdimensional Energies. 6:30pm-8:30pm. Also Sept 15, 22, 29. $87 for series. Release old patterns and bringing in new energies from the 5th dimen-

sion. These energies become cellular so that they may be accessed by participants when needed. To register or for more information please contact Gayle Franceschetti, 203-265-2927, email sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or visit www.return2love.net.

Saturday, September 10th Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory & Terminology Course. Also Sept 11, 24, 25. 9:30 - 4:30 PM. $489.00 (28 CEU). Through recognition of patterns, TCM describes disharmonies without diagnosing disease. Taught with an emphasis on clinical diagnosis as practiced in China today. It is a Pre-Requisite for the One Year Certified Chinese Herbology Program in April. Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies, 900 Wells Road (RT 175), Wethersfield. 860-666-5064 CTHerbschool.com. Are You Ready For Your Perfect Partner? 11 am – 1:30 pm. $25. Many people are searching for their perfect partner. There is often a gap between how much we want love and how open we are to receiving it. Come and learn the steps to truly becoming magnetic to love. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www. spiritmattersct.com. Register with Catherine Ewing, LCSW, MDiv at 860-871-9295 by September 7. Yoga Dance! 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm. $10 pre-paid, $15 at the door. Come get your groove on with Jean Skeels! A liberating and joy filled practice that combines the energy of yoga with the freeing experience of dance. No dance knowledge or experience necessary. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860.657.9545. Private Channeling with Sheryl Blumenthal. $125 per hr. Sheryl has remained an avid love of light and is passionate about helping people to journey towards achieving their soul’s quest and realizing their true gifts. Through years of counseling individuals and working with groups, Sheryl has remained a clear, strong channel for

the Divine, witnessing many BECOME. A private session with Sheryl is an opportunity to be in conversation with both your and Sheryl’s spiritual guides. A recording of your session will be provided. Location: Crossroads Wellness Center- 10 Crossroads Plaza, W. Htfd. To register – www.epllc.org or 860-232-3331

Sunday, September 11th Lunar Flow Yoga. 5:00 – 7:00 pm. With Erika Halford. Pre-register/pre-pay for $20 or $25 at the door. A candle-lit, restorative practice that includes gentle backbends and hip-opening, forward bends and twists, inversions and special lunar meditation and ritual offering. www.sacredriversyoga.com. Space is limited so please pre-register by contacting Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury 860.657.9545. Honoring World Peace and Oneness. 4:00-7:00 pm. A Community Event featuring Sheryl Blumenthal and Robin Clare – $20 per person. Please join us for a community event to come together in peace and oneness on a day that will forever remind us of this precious state of being. Sheryl Blumenthal will deliver personal and group messages from the spiritual realm. The messages for the entire group are of benefit to all that have the opportunity to hear them. This group session is extremely powerful and transforming, as the pure light and channeling for this event is a gift and based on pure intent. Robin Clare will lead us in meditation & discussion and the Oneness Blessing facilitators present will share with each participant an energy transfer of peace. Location: WHSC – 15 Starkel Rd. W. Htfd. , CT. To register – www.epllc.org or 860-232-3331. Swimming with Yin Yoga with Liza Dousson. 9:00am - 10:00am. Fee $25. Join us for this class to explore the essentials of a Yin Yoga practice and learn more about how its holistic addition can benefit not only your overall Yoga practice...but everyday life! Fuller Yoga Pilates and Massage, 2450 Main St., Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860-430-9642, www.fulleryoga.com.

Exploring the Yoga Oasis - Yin Yoga workshop w/ Liza Dousson. 10:30-12:30pm. Fee $55. You will stretch and enliven the deeper yin tissues of the body (connective tissue, ligament and into the bones) for improved physical mobility, balance the body’s natural energy and access the calm reservoir of the parasympathetic nervous system through breath, visualization and sound. Fuller Yoga Pilates and Massage, 2450 Main St., Glastonbury, 860-4309642, www.fulleryoga.com

Monday, September 12th Reiki Share with Sue Merker and Lee Dittman. 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $10. Unity of South Windsor, 919 Ellington Rd, South Windsor. All Reiki Practitioners of any level are welcome to participate in a relaxing evening of sharing Reiki. Contact Sue Merker: smerker329@cox.net to RSVP. Held monthly at this location. Spiritual Development Circle for Intuitive Teens. 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. $80.00. This is a new 10-week program for teens in grades 9-12. Each week participants will learn meditation techniques and then work with a variety of skills to develop their intuitive gifts. Parental permission required. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468. Shamanism in Today’s Backyard. 7-9 pm. $15. Marian Vitali, DC facilitates, www. wholelifewellnessshaman.com. Shamanism is no longer underground; more and more the wisdom of shamans, sages, and medicine people is being recognized and drawn upon throughout the world. Basic features of Shamanism, an intuitive exercise, and a closing ceremony. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, CT, www.spiritmattersct.com. Register with Marian at 860-918-8703. Group Past Life Regression. 6:30pm8:30pm. $20. Through exploration of your past lives, learn some of the reasons you are repeating patterns, why you were born into your particular family or why you

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have certain behaviors. 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. No previous experience necessary. To register or for more information please contact Gayle Franceschetti @203-265-2927, email sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or visit www.return2love.net Bernie Siegel Presents “Reflections on the Art of Living and Healing,” A small group workshop in three evenings. Also 9/19, and 9/26. 7-9 pm. $90 for the workshop series. Takes place at The Graduate Institute in Bethany, CT. Visit www.learn.edu/ events to RSVP or call (203) 874-4252 for more information.

Tuesday, September 13th Emotional Freedom Technique: The Basic Recipe. 7:15-9:30 pm. $25. Similar to acupuncture, without the needles, EFT relies on fingertip tapping to release stagnant energy. It’s profoundly effective in clearing a wide range of psychological, physical and emotional problems. Includes instruction, demonstration, practice time, and handouts for home practice. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, www.spiritmattersct.com. Register: Catherine Ewing, LCSW, 860-871-9295 by September 12. Spiritual Development Circle for Intuitive Kids. 4:30p.m. – 5:30p.m. $60.00. This is a new 10-week program for kids in grades 2-5. Each week participants will learn meditation techniques and then work with a variety of skills to develop their intuitive gifts. Parental permission required. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468. Information Session on Osteopathic Medicine. 7pm. Osteopathic medicine offers a holistic approach inclusive of mind, body, spirit along with hands-on manipulation to maximize the body’s healing potential. Issues addressed include chronic back and joint pain, fibromyalgia, athletic injury, fatigue, asthma, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorder, poor suck in newborns, and developmental delay. Osteopathic Wellness Center, 158 Danbury Road, Suite 6, Ridgefield. www.osteopathicwellness.net .

The Healing Path. 7-9pm, $15.00/person. For people who are interested in exploring alternative therapies as a way to heal. You will leave with an understanding of what the healing path entails, a conviction that you are the healer you have been looking for, and trust in your readiness to make the journey. Bring an open heart and mind to the Center for Integrative Healthcare and Healing, 533 Cottage Grove Rd, Bloomfield CT. Call 860-243-2224 to register.

Wednesday, September 14th Healing in Harmony Night. 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. FREE. This is a drop-in healing service. Participants will receive an 8 – 10 minute healing from a healer. You will be served in the order in which you enter the center. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For more information, please contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468.

Thursday, September 15th Spiritual Development Circle for Intuitive Pre-teens. 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. $60.00. This is a new 10-week program for kids in grades 6-8. Each week participants will learn meditation techniques and then work with a variety of skills to develop their intuitive gifts. Parental permission required. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468. Core Stabilization & Strengthening Class. No Cost. 1:15pm-1:45pm. Instructor: Carol Gordon, PT, IMTC. This one hour class offers the student basic core stabilization and strengthening techniques. The Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 800 Cottage Grove Road, Building 2, Bloomfield, CT 06002. To obtain additional information or to sign up for this class, please contact Amanda Albrecht at AmandaAlbrecht@centerimt.com or call 860 243 5220.

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Calendar Thursday, September 15th Community Evenings: Health Options for Children. No Cost. 7:00-9:00pm. Instructor: Sharon Giammatteo, Ph.D, P.T, I.M.T.C. As another school year begins, come learn about a medical program that utilizes state of the art traditional and alternative approaches to rehabilitation. Programs include treatment for Autism, CP, Spina Bifida, ADD, ADHD and more. Learning and Thinking vs. Teaching and Education: An interactive panel discussion on Transformative Education. 7-9 pm at The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Road, Bethany, CT. Visit www.learn.edu/ events to RSVP or call (203) 874-4252 for more information.

Friday, September 16th Gallery Night. 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $45.00. Enjoy an intimate evening of learning about angels and guides and experiencing intuitive readings with medium and certified Angel Therapy Practitioner®, Priscilla Bengtson. Everyone in attendance will receive a message. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call Priscilla at 860.301.1468.

Saturday, September 17th Usui Reiki Level One Certification. 9:30 am-3:30 pm. $ 150. Lauren Mas, RMT, teaches. Reiki is a simple, yet profound healing technique. Learn the history, theory and practice of Reiki and receive your attunement as a Level I Practitioner, allowing you to give healing to yourself and others. Includes materials for follow-up practice. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/ Rt. 286, Ellington, www.spiritmattersct. com. Register at www.morningsunreiki. com, 860-202-9981. International Angel Day Celebration. In celebration of International Angel Day, a portion of the proceeds from these events will be donated to the Cherish the Children Foundation www.ctchildren. org. Angels 101: Connecting and Healing with the Angels. 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. $50.00 (both sessions this day only $75.00). Explore the angelic realm and learn different ways to connect with the angels. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For more information, please contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com. Awakening the Healer Within with PJ Harder. 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. $50.00 (both sessions this day only $75.00). Learn to activate your healer within and learn simple self-care practices such as Qigong, Meditation and Tai Chi Easy™. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For more information, please contact Priscilla at 860.301.1468 or visit www.simplyfitnessonline.com.

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Sunday, September 18th Women’s Empowerment Meditation. 10a.m –12p.m. $25.00. This guided meditation is specifically designed to the energy of the group. 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. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468.

Wednesday, September 21st Janet Hulme – Improving Bladder/Bowel Strength. No Cost. 1:15pm-1:45pm. Marilyn Gross, PT, IMTC. This one hour class is structured to provide individuals, suffering from any type of pelvic pain, with easy sets of functional exercises to improve strength and mobility. The Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 800 Cottage Grove Road, Building 2, Bloomfield, CT 06002. To sign up for this class, please contact Amanda Albrecht at AmandaAlbrecht@centerimt. com or call 860 243 5220. Yoga for Teens. Free with donation of slightly used sporting goods. 4:30pm5:45pm. Not only is yoga good for teens to de-stress but as active as they are yoga can balance out their sporting activities with the stretching their bodies need to prevent injury and pain. Ages 14-18 All sporting goods will benefit Youth United for Survival in Hartford. Fee without donation $12. Fuller Yoga Pilates and Massage, 2450 Main St., Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860-430-9642, www.fulleryoga.com

Saturday, September 24th Developing Your Intuition. 9:30am3:30pm. $97. Through the use of meditation, sharing, and experiential exercises, you will begin to master the technique of accessing your creativity and intuition at will. Healing Touch Wellness Center, LLC. 5802 Main St. Trumbull, CT 06611 Contact Gayle Franceschetti @203-265-2927, email sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or visit www.return2love.net. Private Appointments with Pat Caffrey, Master Channel. 9-5PM - $125 for 1hr / $85 for ½ hr. Pat Caffrey is a clear vessel of love. She is a voice for the Angelic Council of LIGHT, beings of love and light that have been manifested to lead and guide humanity on Earth. Pat channels the Healers of LIGHT to perform a new healing modality called Spectral Light Healing. The Healers of Light (channeled through Pat) are able to clear blocks and assist with healing in many ways. Come discover the energy healing of the future being presented to us today. Private Sessions – Crossroads Wellness Center – 10 Crossroads Plaza. To register, www.epllc. org or 860-232-3331.

Group Healing Session with Pat Caffrey, Master Channel. 7PM. Donations Only. Come and join us for a very unique evening of healing. Pat - The Angelic Council & Healers of LIGHT invite you to meet us for our new healing format. As usual, we will greet you with a general message for all and brief message individually as time allows. We are adding a unique experience of healing as we do the touch phase of the session. We will be aligning and attuning your energy field individually as well as the group as a whole. It is our joy to do this for each and every one of you and hope to see you there. West Hartford Senior Center, 15 Starkel Rd. To register, www.epllc.org or 860-232-3331. Jewish Themed Meditation and Breathing Class. Join us any Sunday morning, year-round, in the Emanuel Synagogue Boardroom, 160 Mohegan Drive in West Hartford, CT. Ori Clare will lead a JEWISH-themed guided Breathing and Meditation class where we’ll engage your Body (with breath-work), your Mind (with a new Jewish teaching every week) and your Spirit (with a mantra/gerushin built from the teaching). There’s no cost to attend; but, for a fair exchange of energy, we suggest at least a $5 donation which will benefit The Emanuel. For info, call Ori at 860-833-9671, or just show up ! Plan to arrive early as we will start promptly at @ 9:15AM. 45 minutes of Breathe-LearnMeditate . . . then the rest of the day in Peace. Adult CPR/AED training. 9:00- 11:30pm. $40. Sacred Rivers Yoga will be hosting Justin McGuire (certified by the American Red Cross) in an Adult CPR and AED Certification Course. There are no prerequisites for this course. The class space is limited to 10 people, so you must preregister and pay by Wed. Sept 21st to save your spot! Contact Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, 860.657.9545 Reiki 2nd Degree Workshop with Gigi Benanti, Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. 10am - 5pm. Also Sept. 30th. Two special attunements, enhance/strengthen your Reiki, includes review to Reiki 1. Need this level if you will charge for Reiki, information about essential oils and crystals, manual and certificate included. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Avenue, Norwalk, CT.(off Exit 16/ I-95) Free private parking. Pre-Registration required at 203852-1150 or angelhealreikigigib@snet.net. Fee $215-225. www.angelhealreiki.com. Happiness is our birthright! 9am -3. Have you ever wondered how much of your life story is related to how you think? Jack Pransky, Ph.D., Internationally recognized teacher and author of, “Somebody Should Have Told Us”, and Lori Carpenos, LMFT. will share what they found out through story telling, examples, reflection, and enjoyable listening exercises. Expect insights to flow that can change the course of your life in ways better than you can imagine. $75pp or $50 each for two or more people attending as a group. Call Lori at 860-5611919 for details.

Sunday, September 25th Workout for St. Jude! 4:00-6:00pm. A donation based yoga class with Loren Hardy to raise money that will help St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 75 min All Levels Yoga Flow class, follwed by refreshments and same day drawing for door prizes. Space is limited, please pre-register.Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Contact Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860.657.9545 Natural Solutions for Lyme Disease with Dr. Elena Sokolova. 10:30a.m. – 12p.m at New Morning Health Food Store in Woodbury , CT. Important for all of us living in the “Lyme Disease Endemic Zone” in the State of Connecticut. Learn the way Lyme Disease can mimic other medical conditions and natural treatments and preventions against Lyme Disease. Dr. Sokolova practices at Whole-Body Medicine. Visit www.wholebodymed.com or call 203.371.8258. The Perfect Union: Emotional Freedom Technique Meets the Law of Attraction. 2-5 pm. $35. Catherine Ewing, LCSW, MDiv facilitates. EFT can eliminate limiting beliefs, trauma memories, phobias and physical pain. Learn how to combine EFT and the Universal Principles of Attraction and Manifestation to create more of what you want in your life. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, www. spiritmattersct.com. Register at 860-8719295, by September 22.

Tuesday, September 27th The Body Electric. 6:30 -.m. – 8:30 p.m. $45.00. Within your body you have many energy systems called chakras. Each chakra has a connection to certain emotions, physical ailments and how you relate to the world. Participants will learn about or gain a deeper understanding of the chakra system and how it affects your everyday life. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, 860.301.1468. Prema Meditation: Exploring Human Consciousness. 7-9 pm. $95. for series of 8 Tuesdays through November 15. Prema means “Divine Love”. Soul Consciousness™ is the most distinctive feature of Prema Meditation. One learns to converse with one’s soul, the God part within us. Includes levels of meditation, spirituality, and relaxation. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, www.spiritmattersct.com. Contact Norman Green to register: 860-875-6303, norman.green@ snet.net by September 20. Find Your Right Work: An interactive workshop in four evenings. Starts September 27th from 7-9 pm and runs through October 25th. $295 for the series. Offered by The Graduate Institute. Visit www. learn.edu/rightwork to register or for more information.

Wednesday, September 28th Abundance/Manifestation. Also Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26th. 6:30-8:30pm. Cost: $97 entire 5 session series, includes companion book. Free yourself up to let your wishes come true! Learn how to focus your intent and energy to create and manifest abundance in all its forms. Discover the keys to open your gates to allow and accept that which is rightfully yours. 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. Contact Gayle @203265-2927, sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or www.return2love.com

Wednesday, September 28th Yoga Nidra. No Cost. 1:15-1:45pm Instructor: Julie McNeal. Please, eat your lunch before or after this program. Yoga Nidra or the yoga psychic sleep, is a guided meditation practice of deep relaxation that has been found to reduce tension and anxiety. The Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 800 Cottage Grove Road, Building 2, Bloomfield, CT 06002. To sign up for this class, please contact Amanda Albrecht at AmandaAlbrecht@centerimt. com or call 860 243 5220.

Thursday, September 29th Vibrational Healing Meditation. 7-8:30 pm. $15. Lisa Burch, LCSW, RMT & Marna Walter, RN, RMT, facilitate. Relax with this blend of guided imagery and sound healing with the Tibetan singing bowls, drumming included. Release what no longer serves you. Reiki offered as time allows and Spirit guides. Bring a mat, pillow and blanket if you wish to lie down. Spirit Matters, 19 Pinney Street/Rt. 286, Ellington, www.spiritmattersct.com. Register with Lisa: 860-871-9295 x2.

Friday, September 30th Partner Thai Massage Class. 6:30 – 7:00 pm. $40 per pair. A unique opportunity to explore a beautiful yogic flow of stretching, meditation, massage and conection with a partner. Sign up with a friend, partner or spouse! Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Space is limited, please pre-register by contacting Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860.657.9545 Spiritual Healing Training - Level I. Dr. Anastasio is offering training in biblical healing therapies. Level I is an 8 session immersion into use of prayer, light, Angels, purification, rituals and communication techniques for healing the body, mind and spirit. Personal Spiritual Healing- appointments are now available with Dr. Anastasio to receive an individualized spiritual healing session involving purification, prophesy, divine guidance, removal of spiritual blockage, laying on of hands healing and blessings for the mind, body and spirit. Call 203-271-1311 for information and appointments.

Global Yoga Class with Live Music. 7:00pm-8:30pm. Fee $35. As an international observance and culmination of Yoga Month, yoga students of all experience levels are encouraged to practice yoga at 7 p.m. local time, with savasana beginning at 8 p.m., and a 15 minute meditation for universal peace and wellbeing at 8:15 p.m. Join the wave of yoga taking place around the globe. Fuller Yoga Pilates and Massage, 2450 Main St., Glastonbury, CT 06033, 860-430-9642, www. fulleryoga.com

Saturday, October 1st Free Acupuncture Day. 10am – 2pm. Free acupuncture treatments (for new patients only) at Many Rivers Community Acupuncture. Many Rivers is an affordable acupuncture clinic with a sliding scale of $15 - $35 per treatment. You pay what you can afford, no questions asked. Located at 44 Bloomfield Avenue, Windsor, CT. www.manyriversacupuncture.com. To schedule your free treatment, call (860) 683-0011. Walk-ins are also welcome. Vie for the kids. A fundraiser to benefit the Pediatric Clinical Oncology Trails Program at CCMC. The morning begins with a 6K trail run/walk through the picturesque Ethel Walker Woods. Race starts at 8:30 am. That evening, an authentic gourmet barbeque prepared by Jason Sobocinski, Executive Chef of Caseus Fromagerie & Bistro and host of the Cooking Channel’s The Big Cheese will take place at Rosedale Farms & Vineyards in Simsbury. For more information and to purchase tickets to both events please visit: www.connecticutchildrensfoundation.org/vieforthekids.

Monthly Ongoing Events SUNDAYS Spiritual Cinema Circle. 7pm. Independent, spiritual filmmakers are creating inspirational movies with heart and soul. First Sunday of every month, movie followed by discussion of the film. Free. Bring popcorn and an open mind. Move2Wellness located at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-4032522 or www.move2wellness.com. Meditation Sunday Evenings. 7pm. The 3rd, 4th, 5th Sunday every month. Meditation led by a different practitioner every week. Experience different techniques and styles for your own practice. Free. Move2Wellness is located at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-403-2522 or www.move2wellness.com.

MONDAYS Intro to Yoga. 7:30pm. Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply, This class is for students who are absolutely new to yoga. You will learn the names and proper alignment of the basic postures used in your weekly yoga classes. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT. 860-430-9642, www. fulleryoga.com. Tai Chi Class. 6-7pm. Instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine who studied Tai Chi in China and US for 40 years, he received the authentic Yang Style teaching from his Sifu Grandmaster Gin Soon Chu, disciple of Yang Sau Chung. He teaching Tai Chi in US for over twenty years. Mention this ad for first month free Tai Chi class on Monday ($60) or Saturday ($80) Exp. Oct 1, 2011. Wu Healing Center, 45 South Main Street, Suite #100, West Hartford, CT. 800-990-9332. www. wuhealing.com.

Three Principles Therapy. 7:30-9:00pm. A support group for people who are intrigued by the idea of learning how your thoughts can maintain or change the story of your life, forever. This is an ongoing group in which participants learn from each other’s insights, stories and experiences. Facilitated by Lori Carpenos, LMFT. $30 per session or $150 for 6 sessions. Call 860-561-1919. Intro to Pilates. 7:30pm, Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. Sometimes it’s not what you do but how you do it. This class will ensure you execute the pilates exercises correctly to get the benefits of a strong core and reduced back pain. You will learn the pilates principles of Breathing, Pelvic Placement, Rib Cage Placement, Scapular Movement and Stabilization and Head and Cervical Placement. Please wear form fitting exercise clothing preferably black. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642, www.fulleryoga. com.

Belly Dance Fusion with Naima Provo. 7-8:30pm $20/ class, 10 classes for $170. No experience necessary! Learn movements focusing on muscle isolation, core strength, and correct posture. Practice movements with drills & stretches to all types of music. Come wiggle & giggle with us! Move2Wellness is located at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-403-2522 or www. move2wellness.com.

WEDNESDAYS

TUESDAYS

A Course in Miracles. 12:00-1:30pm. Love Offering. The Course is a self-study curriculum which aims to assist its readers in achieving spiritual transformation. Release your mind and free yourself! Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk 06851 (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922.

Three Principles Therapy. 7:30-9:00pm. A support group for people who are intrigued by the idea of learning how your thoughts can maintain or change the story of your life, forever. This is an ongoing group in which participants learn from each other’s insights, stories and experiences. Facilitated by Lori Carpenos, LMFT. $30 per session or $150 for 6 sessions. Call 860-561-1919. A Course in Miracles. 7-8:30pm. Love Offering. The Course is a self-study curriculum which aims to assist its readers in achieving spiritual transformation. Release your mind and free yourself! Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk 06851 (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org 203-855-7922. All Levels Vinyasa. 5:45-6:45pm. $16 drop in, class cards available. Maeve Ryan combines the stretching and relaxation of gentle yoga with the heat-building core and balance work of vinyasa flow yoga. All are welcome. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT. 06033. 860.657.9545.

Yoga for Runners. 7 – 8pm. With Paula Scopino. $10 per person. Join the Glastonbury River Runners in a weekly yoga class designed specifically to stretch and strengthen the areas of the body that are affected by running. Visit www.sacredriversyoga.com for more information. Sacred Rivers Yoga, 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033. 860.657.9545.

Dynamics for Living with Rev. Shawn. starting 9/14. Compilation of Charles Fillmore’s writing. Instruction on how to live by Unity principles. Dynamics for Living provides an easy reference to Charles Fillmore’s most influential teachings and combines three decades of writing in one book. It has been a reliable cornerstone for the spiritual growth of hundreds of thousands of people. These revelations he generously shared with all who studied in his classes or pondered over his writings. Prayer opened this man’s human consciousness to the dynamics of Spirit. “What is “new” about this book is the arrangement in which this compilation is offered. Its purpose is to present the basic substance of Charles Fillmore’s writings in a manner that will invite an expanded study of what he taught.” This book explains Unity teachings in the easiest most practical way to think and live. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922

NaturalNutmeg.com

Calendar WEDNESDAYS Deep Restorative Yoga. 7:30pm and Fridays at 6:00pm, Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. This therapeutic style of yoga is often called “Active Relaxation” uses props to support the body while keeping it active in a relaxed, meditative state. The postures are designed for when you are feeling fatigued or stressed from daily life or when you just want to experience stillness. They can also help alleviate depression, reduce chronic pain, migraines and the symptoms of insomnia, asthma and to help recover from childbirth. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642. www.fulleryoga.com. Kids Yoga (girls/boys ages 7-12). 4:305:30pm. Enlightened Way Wellness Center. 2 Tunxis Road, Suite #208, Tariffville (Simsbury). (860) 217-0340.www.enlightenedway.com. Taught by Yoga Kids Instructor Julie Erasmus.

THURSDAYS The Bars Process. 7pm. Love Offering. The “Bars” is part of Access Consciousness, which is a set of tools and processes that are designed to facilitate more consciousness for everyone. There are 32 bars of energy that run through and around your head. They store the electromagnetic component of all the thoughts, ideas, attitudes, decisions and beliefs that you have ever had about anything.There are Bars for healing, body, control, awareness, creativity, power, aging, sex and money, just to name a few. Each thought, idea, attitude, decision or belief that you have fixed in place solidifies the energy and limits your capacity to be generative in that area and to have something different show up in your life with ease. Simply put, the “Bars” is like reflexology on your head. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk 06851 (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org 203-855-7922. Qi Gong with Dr. Anne Mitchell. QiGong is a healing practice similar to Tai Chi. The form you will be learning is simple and powerful. Qi Gong qualifies as weight bearing exercise and will help osteopenia and osteoporosis. It will strengthen your core muscles and stabilize your spine. It will help you find peace and quiet

within yourself. Common Benefits of Qi Gong are serenity, clarity of mind, focus, strength pain relief. Classes are Thursday at 5:30pm in our 2 Broadway, North Haven location Call to sign up and reserve a spot. 203-239-3400. $10 cash per person, Bring a friend and you each get 1/2 your first visit. Kundalini Yoga & Meditation. 7- 8:30 p.m. Cost $25. Kundalini Yoga is a sacred technology that awakens the spirit, energizes the body & relaxes the mind. Everybody can do this regardless of age, size and fitness level. It’s “90 minutes that can change your life.” Call or email to reserve. Move2Wellness at Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. 203-4032522 or www.move2wellness.com.

FRIDAYS Morning Yoga. 9:30am. Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. See full description under Wednesday class Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642, www. fulleryoga.com.

Deep Restorative Yoga. 6:00pm, Class Cards, Drop Ins and Monthly Memberships apply. See full description under Wednesday class. Fuller Yoga Pilates & Massage, 2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT. 860-430-9642. www.fulleryoga.com

SATURDAYS Tai Chi Class. 9-11am. Instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine who studied Tai Chi in China and US for 40 years, he received the authentic Yang Style teaching from his Sifu Grandmaster Gin Soon Chu, disciple of Yang Sau Chung. He teaching Tai Chi in US for over twenty years. Mention this ad for first month free Tai Chi class on Monday ($60) or Saturday ($80) Exp Oct 1, 2011. Wu Healing Center,45 South Main Street, Suite #100, West Hartford, CT. 800-990-9332. www. wuhealing.com. Healing Prayers. 7pm. 3rd Thursday of every month. Love offering. Heal yourself through prayer with Karen Mitchell. Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922. Reiki. 7pm. Healing energy work with Hilda Swaby. 4th Thursday of every month Unity Center, 3 Main St., Norwalk (above the Ford dealership). Unitycenterps.org or 203-855-7922.

Community Resources ACUPUNCTURE

ACUPUNCTURE

Stan Baker, L. Ac., Dipl. Ac.

Sophia Natural Health Center

35 Nod Road, Suite 106, Menla Holistic Health, Avon, CT. • (860) 836-1068 Stan Baker is a fully licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine practitioner with offices in Avon, CT and Springfield, MA. He has been a practitioner in the Oriental healing arts for 25 years. He specializes in difficult cases including back pain/sciatica, headache/migraine, allergies, and arthritis. He is also a teacher of advanced Chen Tai Chi, Aikido and Sun Do Mt. Yoga. See ad on page 39.

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center Dr.Helene Pulnik, ND LAc. 18 School St., Glastonbury,Ct 6033 (860) 657- 4105, naturopathicwellness.com

Dr. Pulnik is a licensed, board certified Acupuncturist and Naturopathic Physician with over 25 years experience as a healthcare professional. She specializes in acupuncture for infertility, womens' health, migraines, anxiety/stress/ insomnia, arthritis, back & neck pain, sciatica, allergies, chronic sinusitis, and more. See our ad on page 5.

Natural Nutmeg

Kenneth Hoffman, D.Ac, L.Ac. 499 Federal Rd., Brookfield, CT (203) 740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com Combining Chinese Medicine with modern science, we restore health by identifying imbalances that cause illness. Acupuncture, Allergy Elimination, Chronic Pain Relief, Hormone Balancing, Thermography, Detoxification. See ad on page 17.

BEE VENOM THERAPY Bee Well Therapy, Inc.

Alan Lorenzo, Stamford , CT (203) 322-7872 • BeeWellTherapy.com

Bee venom therapy can offer significant relief from the symptoms of spinal, neural, or muscular-skeletal ailments. The anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and cancer fighting properties of bee venom make it a unique weapon in controlling many diseases. Please call for a free phone consultation. House calls only, by appointment. See ad on page 42.

ALLERGY TREATMENT CHIROPRACTIC Advanced Allergy Relief CT Anne Mitchell, ND (203) 239-3400 • www.aarct.com North Haven & W. Hartford Eliminate your allergic reactions using a technologically advanced treatment that corrects the body’s response to the offending food, pollen, mold, perfume, pets, etc. No medications. Non-invasive. Childfriendly. See ad on page 22.

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School St., Glastonbury, Ct. 06033 (860) 657- 4105, naturopathicwellness.com

Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND is a certified Advanced Allergy Therapeutics Practitioner. Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) is a clinically proven treatment that is highly effective in relieving the many symptoms associated with allergies, food sensitivities, environmental sensitivies, IBS, headaches, skin problems and more. The AAT treatment does not rely on the use of medications, herbal remedies or supplements. The treatment is safe, painless and available to all ages including infants. See ad on page 5.

Chiropractic Health Ctr. of Glastonbury

2934 Main St.,Glastonbury, Ct 860-657-8800 • www.glastonburychiro.com D r. Pa t r i ck D e Fra n c e s o , founder, is a board certified ch i r o p r a c t o r w i t h m o r e than 20 years experience assisting patients. To deliver the highest standard of care Dr. DeFrancesco utilizes the state-of-the-art digital x-ray, the latest chiropractic tables and equipment. The office also offers therapeutic massage, nutrition counseling and monthly workshops. Our family of patients range in ages from newborns to senior citizens. The team at the office creates a comfortable and fun loving environment where individuals and families can reach and maintain optimal health and wellness with safe, natural and effective chiropractic care. Feeling good has never been so simple! See ad on page 30.

CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Charles B. Lerner, DC, LAc. Glastonbury Naturopathic & Acupuncture Center 18 School Street, Glastonbury, Ct. 860-657-4105 • naturopathicwellness.com

Dr. Charles Lerner offers expert Chiropractic and Acupuncture care for acute and chronic problems, both internal medical concerns and pain management. He's gentle, compassionate and treats his patients as whole beings, not symptoms or diseases. Dr. Lerner's approach to health and wellness is simple: he offers a complete method of care specifically designed around the patient’s needs and requirements. In addition to the variety of Chiropractic adjustment techniques, Dr. Lerner offers a wide variety of modalities including hot packs, electrical muscle stimulation, ultra sound therapy, low dose ultra sound therapy and vibration therapy. See ad on page 5.

Francis X. Tortora

Chiropractor, Board Certified Craniopath 22 Fifth, St., Ste. 208, Stamford, CT (203) 348-0678 See ad on page 19.

Westside Chiropractic

557 Prospect Avenue, West Hartford,CT (860) 523-5833 • westsidechiropractors.com

DENTISTRY The Canaan Gentle Dentle & Implant Center Dr. Thomas Livingstone 3-5 Railroad St. North Canaan, CT (860) 824-0751 livingstonedentalexcellence.com See ad on page 19.

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School St., Glastonbury, Ct. 06033 (860) 657- 4105, naturopathicwellness.com

Constance Jones is New England’s senior Colon Hydrotherapist. During her 30 years of practice, she has performed nearly 50,000 colonics. Connie is certified through both the International Association of Colon Hydrotherapists (I-ACT) and The National Board for Colon Hydrotherapy. She creates a nurturing, serene, and safe environment, and maintains your utmost privacy and comfort. www.cleanmycolon.com. See our ad on page 5.

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

Bryce Rx Laboratories, Inc.

30 Buxton Farms Road, Stamford, CT 06905 800-798-7279 • www.brycerx.com Bryce Rx Laboratories is a full service Compounding Pharmacy specializing in the formulation of drugs that are not commercially available. From impotence injections, bio-identical hormones, pain management, and veterinary (this list is not inclusive). Please note, all compounded medications require a prescription from a physician. See ad on page 5.

Copper Mountain Aikido

Mind Body Transformation Hypnosis is a Certified Hypnotist specializing in fast and effective methods for weightloss, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Hypnosis, Thought Field Therapy™, Time Line Therapy™ & NLP. Call for a free consultation. See ad on page 13.

Copper Mountain Aikido is a member of Birankai International (North America) under the direction of T. K. Chiba, Shihan. Birankai International is recognized by the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Japan. Copper Mountain Aikido is a traditional Japanese “country-style” dojo offering Aikido, Aikido Weapons, Internal Aiki Training, Iaido (Japanese Sword Art), and Zazen (Zen Meditation). All instruction is conducted by the Certified Chief Instructor licensed under Birankai International (North America). All are welcome!

1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. (203)595-0110 • mindbodytransformation.com

2249 New London Turnpike South Glastonbury, CT. (860) 633-6518 www.dentistryfordiabetics.com/drhinchey See ad on page 13.

Dr. Kevin Norige, D.M.D.

112 Deming St., South Windsor, CT. (860) 644-0113 Dr. Kevin Norige has been in practice for almost 30 years in South Windsor, CT. His services include Invisalign, Perio Protect, Lumineers, Snapon Smiles and Snap-it, Global Mini Implants, and non-surgical periodontal treatments. He is a member of the ADA, CSDA, and the Hartford Dental Society. He is a clinician with the CT Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic and also serves as a facilitator to dental students at the Univ. of CT. See ad on page 41.

FITNESS/NUTRITION Cassandra Forsythe, PhD, RD 860-933-8255 www.cassandraforsythe.com

Cassandra Forsythe is a certified Registered Dietitian and holds her PhD in exercise science and nutrition from the University of Connecticut. She specializes in weight loss, heart health, high blood pressure, sports nutrition, low carb diets, detox and healthy eating. Contact her today to get your nutrition and health on track.

HEALTH FOOD STORES Parkade Health Shoppe

Manchester Parkade, 378 West Middle Tpke, Manchester, CT • 860.646.8178 M-Sat 8am-9pm • Sun 9am-6pm The Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe is an information and service-oriented health food store that has served its community since 1956. Owner, Michael Dworkin, P.D., M.S., a Registered Pharmacist and State Certified Clinical Nutritionist, is available for consultation by appointment. Our other staff nutrition consultants provide customers with instore guidance in choosing vitamins, herbs, sports nutrition products, natural body care, natural and allergen-free foods, and life style changes. Many of our products are discounted every day. Ask us about our gym and other special discounts. See ad on page 15.

MARTIAL ARTS

Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir.

Dr. Steven Hinchey

Our mission is to provide chiropractic care, naturally based generalist, primary or specialty health care, for persons of all ages. We are committed to educating our patients about their health and wellness and providing them with tools for self improvement. We seek to work in partnership with you to achieve good health and well being in a way consistent with your way of life. Visit our location in West Hartford See ad on page 34.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

HYPNOSIS

HYPNOTHERAPY/NLP Nishanto Kane...MindDesigning Hypnosis, Master NLP Practitioner Aura,Chakra Analysis, Meditation Simsbury, CT. (860) 658-9678 www.minddesigning.net

All that is, was first created in the mind. Nishanto Kane is a certified Eriksonian Hypnotist, Master NLP practitioner, Reconnection practitioner, Aura/Chakra Analyst. She has over 25 years experience in assisting many to stop smoking, release self-sabotaging habits, develop beliefs to attract abundance and well being, eliminate per allergies, anxieties, phobias, weight gain, stress, alcohol abuse, insomnia, improve school grades and more. Offering Chakra analysis - this amazing scientific state of the art technology allows you and the practitioner to view your aura. Through interpretation you can learn to bring yourself into physical, mental and emotional balance.

IN-HOME CARE New England Nightingales, LLC Assisted Living in the Home 406 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06032 PH. 860-676-7786, Fax 860-676-7704

New England Nightingales, LLC was founded by Cynthia Ebanks, a registered nurse with more than twenty-five years experience in patient care. We make living at home the right choice for you and your loved ones by helping with the activities of daily living. From our coaching and mentoring services for family caregivers to hourly assistance or 24/7 care, we provide the services you need to manage the various stages of illness, trauma, or dementia. Whatever you need . . .whenever you need it. . we’ll be there. See ad on page 37.

INSPIRATION

21 Copper Hill Road, Granby, CT 06035 (860)986-3617, cpprmtnaikido@gmail.com

MASSAGE Wholistic Spa

18 School Street, Glastonbury 06033. (860) 657-4105, www.wholisticspa.com. Dr. Helene Pulnik ND, LAc, Med. Director Wholistic Spa™ is a haven of total wellness. From the moment you step into our quiet space, we are focused on your complete wellness. Our treatments at Wholistic Spa™ use the purest natural and organic ingredients, with no toxic synthetic ingredients. We offer organic facials, hand & foot treatments and signature massage services for women, men and couples, featuring EMINENCE Organic Skin Care from Hungary. Inner Health. Outer Beauty™. See ad on page 7.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE CT Natural Health Specialists

Lauren Gouin, ND 135 Center St., Manchester, CT (860) 533-0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com Dr. Lauren Gouin is a naturopathic physician with a family practice in Manchester and South Windsor. Dr. Gouin is accepting new patients and is in network with most insurance companies. For more information, contact her at (860)644-2437 or visit www.ctnhs.com. See ad on page 33.

Debra Gibson, ND

158 Danbury Road, Suite 8, Ridgefield, CT 06877 • (203)431-4443 Natural family healthcare using nutrition and biochemistry; herbal, homeopathic, and energetic medicine; lifestyle transformation and detoxification, to promote well-being of body, mind, and spirit. See ad on page 28.

Robin Clare

Inner Wisdom Guide 10 Crossroads Plaza, West Hartford, CT. 860-232-3331 • info@clare-ity.com The Clare-ity Method will assist you in awakening your heart to the truth of who you are. By discovering who you are, you can choose paths in your personal and professional life that bring you your greatest joys – abundant joys which enable you to be of great service to all beings. Together, we will open a channel to the spiritual realm through your own Akashic Records! Please call Robin at 860-232-3331 or email her at Robin@epllc.org to find out more.

Glastonbury Naturopathic Ctr. 18 School Street, Glastonbury Dr. Helene Pulnik. (860) 657-4105 www.naturopathicwellness.com

Glastonbury Naturopathic Ctr. is a multidisciplinary healthcare center focusing on natural alternatives for individuals to achieve and maintain optimal health. Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND, LAc. is a board-certified licensed Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist with over 25 years experience as a healthcare professional. Offering Naturopathic Medicine, Colon Hydrotherapy, Acupuncture, Cleansing & Detoxification Programs, Weight Management Programs. See ad on page 5.

NaturalNutmeg.com

Resources NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE Kensington Naturopathic Medical Ctr.

Dr. Ann Aresco 355 New Britain Rd, Kensington, CT (860) 829-0707 • drannaresco@comcast.net kensingtonnaturopathic.com Centrally located in Connecticut, Kensington Naturopathic Medical Center provides comprehensive family healthcare. Our team of specialized health professionals is dedicated to facilitating our patients’ optimal health, and offers a wide range of services, including supplementation, homeopathy, acupuncture and Chinese herbs as well as nutrition, holistic health counseling and weight loss/life style changes. See ad on page 26.

LIFE CENTER

2 Broadway, North Haven, CT 1007 Farmington Ave, Ste 7A, West Hartford, CT 203-239-3400 Dr. Henderson runs our weight loss program here at the Life Center and is internationally recognized for her work with diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease. Dr. Henderson’s writing has been published in several medical journals. She has lectured extensively and is dedicated to helping each individual live a full healthy life on both a physical and emotional level. The first step toward health is improving our relationship with food and choosing to properly nourish ourselves. Dr. Henderson uses all the tools of naturopathic medicine to help us reach our health goals, including achieving a healthy weight. She also uses botanical medicine, flower remedies, homeopathy, acupuncture, exercise therapy and detoxification to guide individuals to attain their health goals, and to live their best lives. She is seeing patients in both our North Haven and West Hartford offices. See ads on pages 22,31.

William Nager, ND, DC

11 Mountain Ave., Ste. 201, Bloomfield, CT • (860) 242-8200 William Nager is a 1985 Graduate of the National College of Naturopathic Medicine, in Portland Oregon. He also earned a second degree in chiropratic medicine from Western State Chiropractic College. For the past 25 years Dr. Nager has practiced family medicine using non-toxic therapies for digestive disorders, anxiety, and depression, fatigue, back pain, eczema, allergies, hypertension, high cholesterol and pain management as well as other conditions within the scope of a general family medicine practice. See ad on page 31.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine 301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT (860) 232-9662 • www.DRAIETA.com

Dr. Frank Aieta, founder of West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine, is a board certified licensed Naturopathic Physician who specializes in the treatment of both acute and chronic disease utilizing the most advanced natural therapeutics. He offers a wide range of natural, non-toxic treatments which include: Acupuncture, Spinal Manipulation, Clinical Nutrition, Detoxification, Pain Management, Herbal Medicine and Natural Hormone Balancing. See ad on page 32.

NUTRITION Holcare Nutrition Vicki Kobliner MS RD 3 Hollyhock Lane, Suite 2A, Wilton, CT 06897 203-834-9949 • www.holcarenutrition.com Vicki Kobliner MS RD, CD-N is a Registered Dietitian and owner of Holcare Nutrition. Vicki works with infants, through adults with chronic illnesses, digestive disorders, food allergies, ADHD and autism and provides fertility and prenatal nutrition counseling. She is a contributing author to A Compromised Generation: The Epidemic of Chronic Illness in Americas Children. See ad on page 17.

(formerly Avon Therapeutic Center) Eileen C. Comia, M.D. 701 Cottage Grove Road Ste., C-10 Bloomfield, CT 06002 • 860.242.2200 Fax 860.242.2212 • www.AdvBioMedTx.com Dr. Eileen Comia is a board certified Internal Medicine specialist with16 yrs of experience in private practice. In 2002, she founded Avon Therapeutic Center (now Advance Biomedical Treatment Center) specializing in Integrative Medicine. She offers a unique practice using Functional Medicine in the treatment of chronic illnesses. She is a seasoned Defeat Autism Now! Practitioner of 10 years and a member of ACAM (American College for Advancement in Medicine). See ad on page 16.

Center for Integrative Healthcare & Healing

Dr. Schweitzer treats all ages with natural therapies including homeopathy, herbal medicine, enzymes, nutritional supplements and more. His advanced cutting-edge technologies evaluate underlying causes and create individualized treatment plans. ASYRA, Ondamed, BrainPaint, footbaths, acupuncture and oxygen therapies are used to achieve optimal health. Allergy desensitization, detoxification programs, immune system support, Lyme disease issues and other wellness protocols are included in his personalized care. See ad on page 8.

The first of its kind in the country, Connecticut Multispecialty Group (CMG) is a large multispecialty group with its own Integrative Medicine Department. The physician-directed model uniquely blends conventional medicine with complementary therapies. Over 70 physicians work collaboratively with licensed massage therapists, licensed acupuncturists, certified energy workers, and registered dieticians. The end result is comprehensive model of healthcare delivery that focuses on whole person wellness and optimal health. CMG also features an electronic health record that interconnects all providers and offers portable flash drives with personal health information to all its clients. See ad on page 3.

Natural Nutmeg

Natural Health & Healing, LLC

Soul Support Counseling

Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 60 East Main Street, Avon, CT. (860) 677-4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net

Nancy M Brockett, PhD, LPC West Hartford, CT 860.223.2232 soul-support.org

Dr. Deanna Cherrone, founder of Natural Health & Healing, is a board certified Internal Medicine physician who has changed the focus of her practice from traditional Internal Medicine to Functional Medicine. Functional Medicine is a science based approach to health care that involves looking at each patient as a whole being with interconnected systems that function best when they are all in balance. See ad on back cover.

Feeling stressed, confused, anxious or depressed? Imagine yourself breaking free from worries and fear and then confidently doing what you haven't been able to before! We work together from the perspective of the whole self to get to the heart of what’s troubling you. Using painless, drug-free treatments, Dr Brockett helps you uncover and build on your own inner strengths so you can free yourself from negativity and live with more joy in your life. See ad on page 8.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC Henry C. Sobo, MD • (203) 348-8805 www.DrSobo.com

Medical doctor practicing holistic/alternative medicine and weight reduction in Stamford, CT. Nutrition, Allergy Desensitization, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement for men and women. See ad page 35.

Tamara Sachs, MD

Functional Medicine & Integrative Care 15 Bennitt St., New Milford, CT (860) 354-3304 • www.tsachsmd.intranets.com See ad on page 40.

Advance Biomedical Treatment Center, LLC

533 Cottage Grove Rd, Bloomfield, CT

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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

With compassion, intuition and wisdom Deni guides individuals on their journey of regaining lost power leading to renewed purpose, well-being, and emotional balance. Specializing in mind-body therapies with clinical certifications in Body-Oriented Psychotherapy and Energy Psychology she works with adults, teens and children healing traumatic stress related to Abuse, AD/HD, Learning Disabilities, Chronic Illness, Lyme Disease, and Autistic Spectrum.

PHYSICIANS, M.D.

The Wellness Institute Marvin Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT (203) 847-2788

PHYSICIANS, M.D.

(860) 243-2224 • www.cmgmds.com/cihh.html

OSTEOPATHIC PHYS. Origins Of Health, LLC

Jill Moorcroft, DO, Tom Moorcroft, DO 844 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9790 • www.OriginsOfHealth.com Origins Of Health is a holistic medical center that specializes in OsteopathicManipulation,inc luding Cranial Osteopathy, Integrative Medicine and Nutrition. Founders Drs. Tom and Jill Moorcroft integrate their personal passion and extensive training as Family Medicine Physicians while working with you to develop a personalized approach to health that stimulates the self-healing forces within. Our goal is to assist you in realizing optimum health while being free to enjoy life and all it has to offer. See ad on page 28.

RELATIONSHIP COACH Breakthrough to Love Coaching

Candace Brindley Candace@Rich-Relationships.com (203) 247-4613 • www.Rich-Relationships.com As a Professional Member of The Relationship Coaching Institute, Candace is an advocate for marriage that lasts. She invites all dating Singles to seize the opportunity between relationships to learn about themselves and the winning combination of knowledge and skills for lasting love. Candace coaches groups and privately.

RETREAT CENTERS

Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC

David L. Johnston, DO • Lisa Preston, DO 158 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877 (203) 438-9915 • www.osteopathicwellness.net Gentle, natural, hands-on, osteopathic medical care for infants, children and adults. Childrens’ health and development, birth trauma, musculoskeletal pain and injuries, nutrition and wellness counseling, stress reduction, immune support, allergies. Most major insurances accepted. See ad on page 20.

Still Waters Pond, LLC

280 Shetucket Turnpike Voluntown, CT 06384 860-543-3244 • stillwaterspond.com Group leaders interested in workshop/retreat space: Still Waters is nestled among 100 acres of pine forest and a private-10-acre pond. Comfortable, rustic lodging includes a two-bedroom, furnished cottage with full kitchen (sleeps four), Guest House (sleeps 11) and 1200-sq.ft. Art & Yoga Studio. Contact us to arrange a tour. See ad on page 16.

SCHOOLS Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies

LauraMignosa, NCCH 900 Wells Road (RT. 175) Wethersfield, (860)666-5064 www.ctherbschool.com. Founded in 1992, the CT Institute of Herbal Studies focuses on Traditional Chinese Medicine and offers a Certified Herbology Program with a foundation in both theory and clinical diagnosis as practiced in China today.

The Graduate Institute

Leslie Cahill, Director of Admissions, Recruitment (203) 874-4252 • www.learn.edu. The Graduate Institute is an accredited institution of higher education that offers Master of Arts degrees in emerging fields of inquiry. Degree programs include: Experiential Health and Healing, Peace Studies, Oral Traditions, Holistic Thinking, and Conscious Evolution. Classes meet one weekend per month and programs are offered in Hartford, Bethany, New Milford, and Stamford, CT. For more information or to find an Information Session near you, call (203) 8744252 or visit www.learn.edu. See ad on page 31.

SKINCARE Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center

Melissa Martin, 16A Ensign Drive, Avon. (860)284-9730, www.anewyouskincare.net Melissa@anewyouskincare.net We are committed to strengthening your overall well-being and skin health through the use of excellent quality products and extraordinary services that produce amazing results. Only natural ingredients are used, including plenty of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential oils! We want you to be "WOWED"! See ad on page 20.

SOCIAL WORK Michael Westfall, LCSW

243 East Center Street Manchester, CT 06040 • (860) 212-8923. Michael Westfall is a licensed clinical social worker with a practice in Manchester, CT. He has extensive experience with children and teens but works with many adults and couples as well. In network with most state and commercial insurances, he is accepting new clients at this time. Please visit the website: michaelwestfall.com or call him at (860) 212-8923. See ad on page 39.

SPAS / DAY SPAS Wholistic Spa

18 School St., Glastonbury, CT • (860) 657-4105 www.wholisticspa.com. • Dr. Helene Pulnik, Med. Director Wholistic Spa™ is a haven of total wellness. From the moment you step into our quiet space, we are focused on your complete wellness. Our treatments use the purest natural and organic ingredients, with no toxic synthetic ingredients. We offer organic facials, hand & foot treatments and signature massage services for women, men and couples, featuring EMINENCE Organic Skin Care from Hungary. We also offer an array of deeply therapeutic and purifying services to help you achieve optimal health from the inside out! Inner Health. Outer Beauty™. See ad on page 5.

TAI CHI Wu Healing Center

45 South Main Street, Suite #100 West Hartford, CT • 800-990-9332 978-790-8888 (Cell) • www.wuhealing.com Ming Wu, Ph.D., Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Herbalist, Tui Na Therapy, Tai Chi Master Tai Chi Class on Mondays 6-7pm and Saturdays 9-11am, the instrutor, Ming Wu Ph.D., a doctor of Chinese Medicine who studied Tai Chi in China and US for 40 years, he received the authentic Yang Style teaching from his Sifu Grandmaster Gin Soon Chu, disciple of Yang Sau Chung. He teaching Tai Chi in US for over twenty years. Mention this ad for first month free Tai Chi class on Monday ($60) or Saturday ($80) Exp Oct 1, 2011. See ad on page 10.

VIBRATIONAL/ ENERGY HEALING Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND, LAc. Level II Usui Reiki Practitioner

Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School Street, Glastonbury, Ct. 06033 860-657-4105 • naturopathicwellness.com Reiki Energy Medicine is a soft and gentle handson technique supports and connects all the major and minor Energy Chakra Centers of the body, leaving you feeling relaxed, balanced and refreshed! Reiki Energy Medicine works to assist in relieving or reducing pain and discomfort by balancing the body’s energy system. When the energy flow in your body is restored and/or balanced, you are more likely to feel relaxed and your body’s natural healing abilities are utilized. Dr. Helene Pulnik ND, LAc. is a Certified Level II Usui Reiki Practitioner. See ad on page 5.

Pentalign

THERMOGRAPHY Sophia Natural Health Center

499 Federal Rd., Brookfield, CT (203) 740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com As the hormone experts, we specialize in women’s health, natural hormone balancing, breast cancer prevention and thermography utilizing the highest definition camera in the area with interpretations from MD specialists in the field. Thermogram results include a free 15-minute phone consultation. See ad on page 33.

X to Rays, LLC

Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 35 Boston Street, Guilford, CT 866.986.7297 or 203 331-2878 www.xtorays.com Suzanne is a board certified clinical thermographer. She offers totally safe (no radiation), painless (no compression), 97% accurate FDA approved breast cancer screening. With a masters in Nutrition, Suzanne also advises on breast and body health. Scans for thyroid, lung, liver, gall bladder, pancreas and ovaries are also available. Call for locations throughout CT.

VIBRATIONAL/ ENERGY HEALING Lightworker of Vibrational Energy LLC, L.O.V.E. Gayle Franceschetti Med,CHt. 36 Cheshire Rd., Wallingford,CT 203-265-2927 • www.return2love.net

Gayle Franceschetti is the founder of the L.O.V.E. Institute and is an acclaimed intuitive counselor and healer, Reiki Master, certified Hypnotherapist and past life regressionist. As an open channel for Divine Energy, Gayle integrates the power of universal love, compassion and understanding in all her workshops and healing sessions. Gayle conducts healing and mentoring sessions in person, by phone and hosts a variety of workshops and power journeys throughout the U.S. and around the world. See ad on page 29.

860-990-8395 • info@pentalign.com www.pentalign.com Pentalign is now offering the benefits of Reconnective Healing in the workplace and to clubs, organizations, families and individuals. This gives companies and organizations and invaluable offering for their employees that can have a dramatic effect on general wellbeing, stress related issues, and overall quality of life. This can directly lead to less sick days, higher job satisfaction and increased productivity resulting in a win-win situation for both the employee and the employer. We offer on-site or off-site introductory presentations as well as recurring weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly healing clinics that fit your company’s needs and schedule. Individuals are more than welcome as well. Contact Pentalign today to learn more about how we can be of value to you, your company or organization. See ad on page 13.

Simply Fitness for the spirit, mind and body

Priscilla Bengtson, ATP®, 122A Naubuc Avenue, Ste 210, Glastonbury, CT • (860)632-8434) simplyfitnessonline.com Simply fitness for the spirit, mind and body offers programs and services that help spiritual beings get unstuck in their human experience. Owner Priscilla Bengtson is dedicated to helping people live a joyous and fulfilled life and offers classes and workshops that help people achieve this. Private sessions are offered for intuitive and angel readings, hypnosis, reiki, mandala healing, and health coaching. Psychic parties are also offered in your home or at the center. See ad on page 42.

VETERINARY CARE Mobile Pet Vet

Kim Rio, DVM (203)584-1210 • www.mobile-pet-vet.com Mobile Pet Vet is a veterinary housecall practice providing wellness care for dogs and cats. By treating pets at home we reduce their stress and their exposure to infection. Pets with chronic health problems such as diabetes, kidney disease and other endocrine disorders often benefit from home-based care. We spend time developing an individualized treatment plan for each animal and we offer a full range of laboratory services. Our flexible scheduling accommodates busy pet owners. See ad on page 26.

WELLNESS CENTERS The Center for Health Renewal C. Evers Whyte, MS, DC, DACBN 30 Myano Lane, Suite 26, Stamford, CT 06902 • (203) 708-9299

Providing holistic integrative medicine and MediCalm Pain Relief Therapy to patients of all ages. Specialist in treating chronic pain, and also a “medical detective,” helping patients heal other chronic conditions that have not responded to traditional drug therapy or surgery. For more information, please see: www. thecenterforhealthrenewal.com & www.MediCalmPainReliefTherapy.com. See ad on page 6.

Move 2 Wellness

Stonehouse Commons, 635 Danbury Road Ridgefield, CT • 203-403-2522 www.move2wellness.com Massage Therapy • Acupuncture • Yoga Relax & discover the direction of your unique inner compass. Take a much deserved break from “doing” & practice “being.” Come visit our beautiful studio &healing arts center located in the newly restored Stonehouse Commons. See ad on page 35.

WEIGHT LOSS The Life Center

2 Broadway, North Haven CT 1007 Farmington Ave, Suite 7A, W. Hartford CT 203-710-6605 • alifecenter@yahoo.com Are you frustrated because you want to lose weight but cannot figure out how? Do you exercise but it doesn’t seem to help? Are you sabotaging yourself by overeating or emotional eating even though you have the best of intentions? Get off the dieting merry-go-round and FINALLY achieve your ideal weight? The Life Diet matches your nutrition to your metabolism. Most Insurances accepted. We offer a medically supervised weight loss program with whole foods, individualized nutrition, meal planning, and weight loss coaching. See ad on page 25.

YOGA / PILATES CENTERS Fuller Yoga, Pilates & Massage 860-430-9642 • info@fulleryoga.com www.fulleryoga.com

Glastonbury’s newest yoga/pilates/massage studio provides a serene and vibrant space to experience personal growth and awareness. We promote a non-competitive, friendly environment for every individual to journey physically and mentally towards their true self. Give yourself the gift of complete presence. We have classes for everyone at all levels. All modalities of massage available. Private yoga/pilates sessions are also available. See ad on page 35.

Sacred Rivers Yoga

Paula Scopino LMT, E-RYT 500 IAYT, Owner / Director 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033 PH. 860.657.9545 • FAX. 860.657.3161 www.sacredriversyoga.com. See ad on page 43.

NaturalNutmeg.com

Yoga Pose of the Month

“Chandrasana” Cresent Moon Pose Benefits: Opens stiff shoulders, stengthens core muscles, and builds concentration.

Justine Fuller “Yoga Whiz” in Cresent Moon Pose “Chandrasana” wearing Yoga Angel Camisole $24.99. FullerYoga shorts $ 32.00 Fuller Mat $ 85.00. You can find Justine at: www.fulleryoga.com

Photography By: Yves Mathurin

Alignment in yoga is key to a successful practice and keeping injury free. Start with your feet together as much as possible, lift your body upright and feel your weight evenly distributed between heels and toes. Imagine a straight line from your ankles to your ears. Engage your legs and bring your abdominals in, stretch your arms overhead and keep the shoulders down. Breathing will help you understand if you are straining or surrendering to each pose. Take an inhale and bring your arms up, exhale, relax your shoulders. Inhale and as you exhale bend to the side. Remain in the pose for 3-5 breaths. Inhale to come up, keep your legs, buttocks, and torso firm. Repeat to the other side. Careful to keep your legs straight without straining your knees. Your torso should remain open and hips pointing forward. Try to lengthen both sides of your body as you bend in an arch. Use your obliques to assist as you come back to a standing pose.

Practicing basic yoga postures regularly will bring benefits for a lifetime. A sedentary lifestlye or overly active one without stretching, combined with stress can lead to chronic pain, injury and disease. Take a few minutes each morning to connect with your body and breath by practicing these simple postures. Anything is possible when done one breath at a time.

fuller yoga Pilates & Massage

Natural Nutmeg

2450 Main St. Glastonbury, CT 860-430-9642

NaturalNutmeg.com

A Guided ApproAch to optimAl heAlth

Natural

Health & Healing

llc

AreAs of focus

Anti-Aging (Optimal Aging) • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy • Detoxification Food Sensitivities • Heavy Metal Testing & Oral Chelation • Menopause & Andropause Mind Body Medicine • Weight Loss • Neurotransmitter Testing • Quantum Biofeedback Thyroid, Adrenal Testing & Treatment • Nutritional & Lifestyle Counseling

Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? Do you believe you should feel better than you do? Many of my patients are simply looking for a doctor who will listen and explore the root cause of their symptoms which commonly include: Fatigue • Brain Fog • Sugar Cravings • Headaches • Depression Stress & Anxiety • Decreased Libido • Aches & Pains • Decreased Stamina Constipation • Allergies • Inability to Lose Weight • Insomnia

“I blend the best of traditional and alternative therapies to help your body function at its best.”

Deanna M. Cherrone, M.D. (860) 677- 4600 60 East Main Street, Avon CT. 06001 www.naturalhealthandhealing.net 52

Natural Nutmeg