February 2013

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publishersletter

F

ebruary is the month of love and Valentine’s Day. This got me thinking.

During a recent service at church our pastor talked about our past and how that can be very hurtful to remember, especially with past relationships. Everyone has a relationship in their past that they wished would have turned out differently or never occurred at all.

Occasionally there is that awkward moment when you see those people again and you try to avoid them. You aren’t sure what to say, and there are memories and emotions of the past that resurface.

What I have learned from bad relationships is to forgive and move forward. My past does not define who I am today or who I will be in the future. However, there are other relationships in my life that I think about that did not end badly, but simply faded. These are friendships I once had that are no longer there because for some reason or another I have not communicated with these people in a long time.

Any relationship in life takes work. Without the careful attention, cultivation and love, it can’t flourish. Whether it is a marriage or a friendship, the relationship needs to be worked on. I myself have relationships in my past that didn’t turn out like I had thought they would. There is a saying that God puts people in your life for a reason and removes them for a reason. And I believe that the people we meet in life help shape who we are. However, there are some people that have faded from our lives that could be a source of love and encouragement to us— but because we did not give them love, attention, and compassion in return they slipped away. Is there someone you might want to reconnect with?

Over the Christmas holidays, my dear friends now living in Texas came home for the holidays. We all got together; it was amazing that no matter how many miles there was between us, it was like they had never moved away. The feeling of love we all felt for each other was stronger if anything. Renee will always be my best friend and there will always be a bond between us, but without keeping lines of communication open in order to continue the relationship over the distance that separates us, this relationship could have faded.

Whether it is a marriage or friendship, being able to love unconditionally, communicating, spending time with each other, laughing and living life together through good and bad times makes better relationships.

contact us Publisher Tom Maples Tom@Natvalley.com New Business Development Advertising Sales Cindy Wilson Cindy@Natvalley.com Cell: 256-476-6537 Calendar Editor Jerry Woosley Design and Production Karen Ormstedt Natural Awakenings in the Tennessee Valley 14 Woodland Ave. Trinity, Alabama 35673 Office: 256-340-1122 Fax: 256-217-4274 Natvalley.com © 2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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February 2013

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newsbriefs healthbriefs globalbriefs ecotip actionalert healingways greenliving healthykids calendars resourceguide

Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

11 POSTURES

Modified Warrior I Pose

by Gatlianne

14

13 FEAR OF FINANCIAL UNCERTAINTY

by Aaron Peavy

14 BODYWORK GOES MAINSTREAM Helpful Access Points to Health

by Linda Sechrist

17 FEEL-GOOD MASSAGE

advertising & submissions

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People’s Hands-Down Favorites

by Rachel Mork

HOW TO ADVERTISE Display Ads due by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 256-476-6537 or email Editor@Natvalley.com.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS* Newsbriefs due by the 10th of the month. Limit 50-250 words.

Content limited to special events and other announcements.

No advertorials, please.

Articles and ideas due by the 5th of the month. Articles generally contain 250-850 words, with some exceptions. No advertorials, please.

19 REST IN PEACE Sustainable Burials Honor Life

by Brita Belli

21 BULLY BLUES BUSTERS Positive Ways to Promote Kindness

by Meredith Montgomery

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Calendar of Events and Ongoing Calendar listings due by the 10th of the month. Limit 50 words per entry. Please follow format found in those sections.

ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY 256-476-6537 -or- Editor@Natvalley.com *All submissions are subject to editing and will be printed at the publisher’s discretion. Article space often fills in advance. Deadline dates refer to the month prior to next publication and may change without notice due to holidays, shorter months, or printing schedules.

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newsbriefs Chi of Life Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Now Open

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ealizing that he needed a change of pace and having a desire to help people reduce stress and be healthier, J. L. Jones decided to become a Licensed Massage Therapist. He recently graduated from the Madison School of Massage Therapy and has opened his own clinic named Chi of Life Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.

Swedish Massage, deep tissue massage, neuromuscular techniques, and myo-fascial release techniques are just a few of the services provided by Mr. Jones. He is also

certified in integrative reflexology and is a Reiki master.

Mr. Jones understands that not everyone can schedule a visit from 8am-5pm, so he has flexible scheduling available and also schedules off-site appointments to some clients.

Chi of Life Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is located at 2310 Whitesburg Dr. SE, Suite 4, Huntsville, AL 35801, inside Exhale Day Spa. Visit his website at ChiOfLife.MassageTherapy.com For more information on services and an introductory special for new clients, or call 256-812-1284. See ad on page 10 and CRG on Page 30.

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February 2013

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healthbriefs

Hot Peppers Help the Heart

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ebruary is Heart Health Month, and individuals that like hot peppers have another reason to continue their spicy habit, according to recent research. A study presented at the latest National Meeting and Exposition of the American Chemical Society focused on the benefits of capsaicin and its fiery-hot relatives, a piquant family of substances termed capsaicinoids, that give cayenne, jalapeños, habanero and other chili peppers their heat.

The research team discovered that these substances boost heart health in several ways: They block the action of a gene producing a substance that makes arteries contract and restrict the flow of blood to the heart and other organs; lower cholesterol by reducing its accumulation in the body and increasing its breakdown and excretion; decrease the size of cholesterol deposits already formed in blood vessels that narrow arteries and increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes; and reduce overall levels of so-called “bad” cholesterol while not affecting levels of “good” cholesterol.

Reading Helps Teens Beat the Blues

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ooks stimulate the mind in more ways than previously known, and may even help reduce the risk of depression in teenagers, according to a new study published in the journal Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine researchers report adolescents that spend more time reading books are less likely to experience a major depressive disorder than those listening to contemporary music.

Participants were called up to 60 times during five extended weekends over two months and asked if their attention was currently devoted to television, movies, music, video games, the Internet, magazines, newspapers or books. Teens that spent the most hours listening to music were 8.5 times more likely to be depressed than those that spent the least amount of time absorbed in tunes. In contrast, adolescents that read the most (primarily books) were 10 percent as likely to be depressed as those that read the least.

Major depression is thought to affect one in 12 teenagers, according to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health. Dr. Brian Primack, the assistant professor of medicine and pediatrics who led the study, remarks, “These findings may help clinicians and parents recognize links between media and depression. This is worth emphasizing because overall in the United States, reading books is decreasing, while nearly all other forms of media use are increasing.”

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ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE LESSENS BACK PAIN

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otoriously difficult to treat, chronic back pain may be behind more disability and days off from work than any other health condition. A recent study published by the British Medical Journal, involving more than 500 patients, concludes that practicing the Alexander Technique, an awareness practice to identify and correct unconscious negative physical habits related to posture and movement, breathing and tension, combined with moderate exercise, can help.

The patients were either given normal physician care, massage or six or 24 lessons of the technique, which helped them learn to align the head, neck and back muscles, release unnecessary restrictions and improve overall balance. Half the patients in each group were also assigned to walk briskly for 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Massage provided pain relief for the corresponding group for the first three months, and then the benefit had to be reinstated. Patients trained in how to daily use knowledge acquired from practicing the Alexander Technique reported less pain and an ability to do more by the end of the year. Individuals that received six lessons and stuck to a recommended exercise routine did nearly as well as those that had 24 lessons.

For more information, visit AlexanderTechnique.com.

Mindful Meditation Eases Loneliness

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alentine’s Day can increase feelings of loneliness, especially for the elderly, and may pose an additional risk factor for health problems such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s. A new study published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, offers fresh evidence that mindfulness meditation reduces negative thoughts about being alone in older adults and also improves their physical health. The ancient practice dates back to the time of Buddha and focuses on creating an attentive awareness of the present moment.

In the study, researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, in Pennsylvania, recruited 40 healthy adults between the ages of 55 and 85 that were interested in learning the technique. Subjects were assessed at the beginning and end of the study using an established loneliness scale, and blood samples were collected.

After eight weeks of meditation training, participants reported decreased feelings of loneliness, and new blood samples revealed reduced pro-inflammatory gene expression (manifestion of encoded information). Inflammation is thought to promote the development and progression of many diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

Lead researcher J. David Creswell reports, “Mindfulness meditation training is a promising intervention for improving the health of older adults. It’s important to train your mind like you train your biceps in the gym.”

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PEEL-GOOD ENERGY

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onsumers do not need to buy overpriced, sugary sports drinks in order to replenish carbohydrates and electrolytes during or after exercise, say researchers at the Appalachian State University Human Performance Lab at the North Carolina Research Campus, in Kannapolis. Instead, just grab a banana. The tasty fruit not only offers the same performance boost as sports drinks, but additional advantages, as well. Bananas provide antioxidants not found in the manmade beverages, plus a greater nutritional boost, including fiber, potassium and vitamin B6. Bananas also boast a healthier blend of natural sugars than sports drinks.

Red, White and True

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ag the guesswork of grocery shopping and let the American Heart Association (AHA) Heart-Check mark help identify healthy foods. The red-and-white icon, created in 1995 and now found on product packaging, is a solid first step in building a heart-friendly diet.

The AHA is now beginning to include foods with high levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats—the “good” fats—in the Heart-Check program. Updated requirements also covering sodium, sugar and fiber will take effect in 2014 to allow food manufacturers time to reformulate their products.

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February 2013

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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.

Safer Cells Mobile Phones Becoming Less Toxic The Ecology Center, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in conjunction with technicians at IFixIt.com, has published a list of toxic chemicals found in 36 cell phones from a range of manufacturers. The good news is that companies are responding to consumer and regulatory pressure and these troublesome components are on the decline.

The Motorola Citrus, Apple iPhone 4S and LE Remarq were the least toxic cell phones in the analysis. Two of the bestselling models, the iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S III, ranked fifth and ninth, respectively. Among earlier models, the 2007 iPhone 2G was found to contain the most toxic materials.

Jeff Gearhart, research director at the Ecology Center, concludes, “The takeaway is that mobile phones are chemically intensive and full of chemical hazards, but they’ve been getting a lot better.” The center reported that every phone sampled in the study contained lead, bromine, chlorine, mercury or cadmium.

Source: Tinyurl.com/MobileRisk

Parasite Protection Animals’ Native Remedies Offer Insights We can learn much from animal species that selfmedicate naturally. Some have developed the ability to alter their diets and behavior in ways that provide protection from lethal, microscopic parasites.

Chimpanzees held captive often succumb to infection by a parasitic worm, which can lead to lethal intestinal blockages or secondary bacterial infections.

But chimps in the wild rarely experience such deadly ailments. More than 30 years ago, Michael Huffman, who studies evolution of social systems at the University of Kyoto, in Japan, noticed that wild chimps treated themselves by ingesting foods with special properties that fight intestinal worm infections.

Scientists recently discovered why monarch butterflies are so picky in choosing the milkweed plants on which to lay their eggs. “The females often taste a plant, reject it and fly away,” explains Jacobus de Roode, Ph.D., of Emory University, in Atlanta, Georgia. His research team found that butterflies infected with a certain protozoan parasite seek out milkweeds containing high levels of cardenolide, a plant steroid that interferes with parasite growth in monarch caterpillars.

Scientists have identified many other species that partake in self-medicating practices, including macaques and sheep. Recognition that various insects such as honey bees and fruit flies share this trait is enabling scientists to rigorously examine the phenomenon in the laboratory, with hopes of finding applications in animal husbandry and even human medicine.

Source: The Scientist magazine

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Peaceful Spirits Living Spiritual Laws in Prison Living the Power, an organization formed by Marie Jackson in 2010, is piloting its Living the Power Behind Bars program in the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women, in New Jersey, with encouraging results.

Jackson supplies recommended course and resource materials for workshops aimed to help guide inmates to new ways of thinking and approaching everyday decisions using kindness and self-reflection. Through understanding spiritual laws of attraction and intention, participants learn to deepen and redirect their perceptions of themselves, others, events and circumstances to live a life of increased peace, balance and personal fulfillment, while positively influencing their greater environment.

“I’ve learned as much from the women in the program as they have from me,” says Jackson. “Keeping our spirit free is at the heart of peace no matter where we are.”

Source: LivingThePower.com/EdnaMahan.html

Good Hood Paving the Way in Sustainable Streets A one-and-one-half-mile stretch of Cermak Road, on Chicago’s West Side, will soon become one of the greenest streets in the country, and possibly the world. The historic industrial artery is shedding its smokestacks and corrugated steel warehouses for a $16 million makeover by the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) that will make the corridor a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum showcase.

Improvements range from solar-paneled bus stops to native plants and pavement that absorbs rainwater.

Armed with tax increment financing funds and grant money, the CDOT set to work incorporating what may be the most sustainable elements ever to go into a single stretch of road. In addition, all materials were found within a 500-mile radius of the project. Twenty-three percent of the materials used are from recycled sources, and more than 60 percent of the redevelopment construction waste will itself be recycled. Other cities are studying the project as a blueprint for change.

Source: Grist.com

Friend Me Civic Engagement Linked to Social Media The Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project has revealed that the use of social media is becoming an important feature of political and civic engagement. Approximately 60 percent of U.S. adults use social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter, and 66 percent of those—or 39 percent in total—have participated in at least one civic or political activity using social media.

In a three-week survey conducted last summer, two-thirds of the 2,253 adult respondents ages 18 and older said they had used social media platforms to post their thoughts about civic and political issues; respond to other postings; press friends to act on issues; follow candidates and vote; “like” and link to other content; and join groups formed on social networking sites.

Free Gas Promise of New Sustainable Power Source at Hand British engineers at Air Fuel Synthesis have succeeded in using an innovative new “air capture” technology to remove carbon dioxide greenhouse emissions from the air and transform them into synthetic gasoline.

The two-year experimental project mixes sodium hydroxide with carbon dioxide before electrolyzing the sodium carbonate that it produces to form pure carbon dioxide. Hydrogen is then produced by also electrolyzing water vapor captured with a dehumidifier. The carbon dioxide and hydrogen then produce methanol, which is passed through a gasoline fuel reactor to create the fuel. The prototype minirefinery, in Stockton-on-Tees, in Teesside, produced five liters of gas in less than three months. A larger plant might produce more than a ton of gasoline every day, and a refinery-sized operation is envisioned within 15 years.

The fuel can be used in any regular application and if renewable energy were used to provide the electricity, the system would be completely carbon neutral. While the technology has the backing of Britain’s Institution of Mechanical Engineers and private philanthropists, it has yet to capture the interest of major oil companies.

Source: The Telegraph

Source: PewForum.org natural awakenings

February 2013

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actionalert Worse & Worse

Creative Reuse

Fracking Goes Radioactive

New Life for Old Bedding

Grassroots Environmental Education, based in New York state, where extensive underground hydraulic fracturing—known as fracking—is proposed for tapping pockets of natural gas, has issued a report exposing major radioactive impacts of the practice that’s underway in several states and planned for many more.

The Northeast’s Marcellus Shale region is coveted for its rich gas deposits trapped in a substrate far below the water aquifer. Fracking not only uses toxic chemicals under high pressure that can contaminate drinking and groundwater—it can also release substantial quantities of deadly radioactive poisons, bringing them to the surface, where they have the potential to pollute air, water, soil, food crops and animal feed. The report notes that the radioactive material includes, for instance, carcinogenic radium-226, with a half-life of 1,600 years, which remains toxic for up to 32,000 years.

E. Ivan White, a staff scientist for 30 years on the congressionally chartered National Council on Radiation Protection, observes that such radioactive material could easily bio-accumulate over time and deliver a dangerous radiation dose to potentially millions of people long after drilling is completed. He states, “Neither New York state nor the Nuclear Regulatory Commission would permit a nuclear power plant to handle radioactive material in this manner.�

Doug Wood, associate director of Grassroots Environmental Education and editor of the report, says, “Once radioactive material comes out of the ground‌ it is virtually impossible to eliminate or mitigate. Sooner or later, it’s going to end up in our environment and eventually, our food chain. It’s a problem with no good solution—and the [state] is unequipped to handle it.â€?

Wood believes that releasing radioactive radium from the ground is a moral issue. “We must not burden future generations with this. We must say ‘No.’ to fracking now,� he says, “and implement the use of sustainable forms of energy that don’t kill.�

For more details visit, Tinyurl.com/RadioactiveFracking. Join with others protesting fracking locally; find action tools at GlobalFrackdown.org.

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Reusing, recycling or repurposing a worn-out mattress is a far better solution than adding another to the 20 million or so that annually end up in landfills. Before discarding, first check with family members, friends or coworkers, or post a note on a community bulletin board or on the Internet (Freecycle.org) about the availability of a free, gently used mattress.

Next, offer to donate the mattress to The Salvation Army, Goodwill Industries or a local consignment or thrift shop, church, shelter or disaster relief organization. Note that this option may require professional cleaning prior to donation. Many nonprofit outlets provide free home pickup of items, which can be claimed as a charitable tax deduction.

Crafty individuals may want to disassemble the mattress and make use of buttons, tabs and fabric for sewing pillowcases, reupholstering indoor furniture, covering outdoor furniture or as stuffing for pillows. Check with local artist centers too, because one or more of their members may wish to use recyclable materials like the metal springs in their works.

The wooden frame and the stuffing of the mattress can be used to create a backyard compost pile. The wood slats become the compost bin’s architecture, while the foam padding or cotton stuffing serves to shelter compost from the elements and keep the pile warm, which accelerates the composting process. The same stuffing also can be used as landscape fabric to help control the growth of weeds in the garden, and springs make a serviceable trellis to support growing plants.

Some recycling centers do not accept mattresses. Find local resources and policies at Earth911.com.

Sources: Home.HowStuffWorks.com, Tinyurl.com/RadicalRecyclingMattresses

by Gatlianne

—PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEWIS METTS

Modified Warrior I Pose

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ebruary is a month nth associated with love but most ost often of the romantic sort. Stores tores turn into a smorgasbord of pink k not unlike Shelby’s unfortunate wedding g of blush and bashful in Steel Magnolias. gnolias. Couples flounder to purchase e the perfect gift that says “I love you” in just the right way.

Single folk unite in their camaraderie of non-commitment,, planning singles awareness parties instead stead of romantic interludes. But in all of the hustle and bustle that can be Valentine’s alentine’s Day, one crucial component of love is left out: love for the self. We seek out love from outside sources and put others first. We essentially forget to love ourselves. This year be your own valentine alentine and open your heart to yourself. lf. Stand strong and steady in whom you are and love every aspect of your current nt self. Begin your day by looking in the e mirror and saying “I love you” to the person staring back.

Open to greater lovee in your life by loving yourself first and allowing that self-love to grow outward. tward. Commit to loving yourself unconditionally onditionally so that others may love you unconditionally in return. Loving yourself elf unconditionally also allows you to fully ully understand the concept so that you may love those in your life with the same me acceptance. Learn to let go and simply love. ove. I challenge you to create a change. Move beyond the consumerism and economy on nomy driven affection and allow your heart to truly open to both giving and receiving iving love.

A pose to help open the heart space is Modified Warrior I. This pose is done kneeling rather than the traditional Warrior I which is done standing. This kneeling start allows you to find your balance in the pose and come into your Warrior grace. From Lunge Pose drop the extended leg down so the knee is on the floor. Keep the front leg at a ninety degree angle making sure the knee doesn’t go over the toes. With torso and pelvis pointed forward, facing the bent front leg, extend the arms up, palms facing inward. Open the chest and lift the sternum to allow the lungs to expand. Feel the stretch up through the arms and let the energy in the heart space reach up as well. Connect to the earth through the legs and feel the power deep in the thighs and hips as the

heart space reaches down. Breathe fully, focusing your energy on the moment and be in a loving space with yourself and the Warrior you are inside. Continue a slow, steady breath. Let February be a month, not of separation of singles and non-singles or of Valentine’s Day extravagance, but a month of self-love and self-awareness that spreads throughout the year. Dive head first into this month going beyond the candy hearts and paper valentines. You don’t need anyone to love you to prove that you are worthy of love. Simply by being the beautiful human that you are is worth unconditional love. Love the human that you are.

M/Gatlianne is an Author, Yoga Instructor, Interfaith Minister and Holistic Health & Reiki Practitioner based in Athens, AL. For more information contact her at M@Gatlianne.com or visit Gatlianne.com, DeepRivers Healing.com, or DiscoverPath. com.

February 2013

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Fear of Financial Uncertainty

by Aaron Peavy

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ncertainty. The very notion on strikes fear into the hearts ts of men and women everywhere. Most of us journey through life, adjusting and prod-ding every little thing in the hopes pes that our lives will become stable and d predictable paths. We seek further control, until some imagined future when en all unknown territory ceases to exist. st. Years go by, yet uncertainty remains, always lurking at the periphery of our vision.

In the human mind, there iss a notso-subtle sense of ‘needing’ control. t l However, it is precisely this desire that causes us such stress and anxiety when we feel things are falling into chaos.

In psychological terms, we attribute said desire, as well as most others, to the ego. We all know what it is like to work for or be under the direction of a “control-freak” or micro-manager.

However, this same desire is present and manifests in each of us in its own way. For some, it may present itself as anxiety or anger toward others because they do not behave as we would like.

For others, it may arise as stress when inanimate things break down or work inconsistently with our plans.

In terms of our present environment, the fear of financial uncertainty is one of the most common we come upon.

Unemployment in America remains near 8.0%. Although this may seem like a small enough number, put in perspective, it affects about one in every twelve people we know. On top of this, the latest corporate trend affects millions of part-time workers, which is largely due to businesses avoiding government fines and the costs associated with providing healthcare to workers by cutting hours below a certain threshold. Workers are becoming underemployed en masse this year and must find multiple streams of part-time work in order to provide the same quality of life as before. Unemployment figures will never truly reflect the actual numbers of people affected in such

h the h collateral ll l iimpact iis hi ways. FFurther, hitting families, neighborhoods, communities, and beyond.

This uncertainty affects us all, either directly or indirectly, and constantly reminds us how little of the world we actually control. Our false belief that we can and should be in control conflicts with the reality around us, creating a growing gap, which induces a fear that grows with it. Every reader is one who could face the prospect of unemployment or financial hardship, as this author has. This article does not seek to place blame, but rather to help each reader navigate through such hardships, and emerge a stronger, more adaptable person.

When in the midst of changes due to uncertainty, first, we must close the belief gap. Acceptance of reality, as understood to be outside of our control, is the most enduring step toward dealing with the stresses accompanying uncertainty, loss, and change. We lose our jobs, but we must also let go of our identification with and attachment to them. That job was what we did before, but now, we must move on to the next chapter of our lives. Second, blame is a feeling that resists changes in our lives and presumes guilt of another or even ourselves. However, if we seek to understand the present as it is, we will see that there are no outside sources for our pain. Releasing attachments to blame will allow us to move forward much easier. Next, in consideration that the

length of our financial hardship may be long, given economic trends, we must let go of the strongly held beliefs that we have defined for ourselves, based on prior perceptions of financial stability.

If we must choose between feeding our families and paying a debt, the choice is obvious. Nonetheless, many of us have built an identity around being good debtors, and when we are unable to manage our bills, it creates another level of stress. There is no shame in feeding our families and ourselves when that is the best we can do for now. In fact, it takes an enormous amount of courage to do our best when hope is thin.

The greatest thing we can do in hard times is remember each other.

We can be kind to the underemployed person just getting by, for they are neither lazy nor undeserving. Despite some cultural stereotypes of long-term, unemployed people, we should seek to recognize each one as the person we could be at any moment, under the right circumstances. Feel compassion for these individuals, for they must make very difficult decisions every day to keep food on the table for their families. Together, we can find a way through such calamities and struggles.

For those not directly affected by financial crises, there is a way to move beyond the fear brought on by financial uncertainty. Seneca, the Stoic writer, believed in actively taking on poverty as a means of cutting through the fear of losing everything. He wrote, “Set aside a certain number of days, during which you shall be content with the scantiest and cheapest fare, with course and rough dress, saying to yourself the while: “Is this the condition that I feared?”” Taking on this exercise does not matter because simply helping those going through it can give us insight into the nature of our fear.

Aaron Peavy has had a lifelong passion for inner exploration and personal transformation. Having studied various esoteric and exoteric traditions and practices over the years, he enjoys teaching from his experiences and working with people.

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Bodywork Goes MAINSTREAM Helpful Access Points to Health

by Linda Sechrist

The seed holds within itself hints of its magnificent maturity. So it is with the practice of whole-person health care, which has matured in language, sophistication, credibility and acceptance. In a single generation, we’ve seen its presence grow from the outer edges of holistic and alternative wellness to complementary and integrative health care. Its latest evolution into America’s mainstream is known as functional medicine. The branch of massage therapy, the germination point for myriad therapies collectively known as bodywork, patterns the movement’s development.

O

nce considered a luxury for the pampered few, massage was among the first therapies to be widely recognized by physicians as a respected aspect of integrative and functional medicine. Bodywork increasingly shares this status, as it is included in conventional medicine’s more innovative healthcare models that embrace a body, mind and spirit approach. One of many examples is Duke Integrative Medicine, in Durham,

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North Carolina, where patient services include a form of integrative massage that blends Swedish massage, myofascial therapy, reflexology, energy work and somatic therapy techniques.

In the public’s view, bodywork is still largely associated with massage, although distinct forms stand on their own, including Rolfing, structural integration, shiatsu and myofascial and craniosacral therapies. Bodywork professionals generally belong to the

American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), whatever their specialized modality. They may also participate in other professional organizations, such as the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, which has some 80,000 members, many of which are also members of the International Association for Structural Integrators. These nonprofits’ websites help individuals locate practitioners in their area.

According to Maureen Moon, past president of AMTA, many massage therapists (which don’t refer to themselves as bodyworkers) are trained in various bodywork therapies and intuitively integrate them into their sessions, depending upon each client’s needs.

She notes that, “Many AMTA members are so passionate about their profession and meeting the continuing education (CEU) requirements that they go far beyond the units required to maintain their license, which can vary from state-to-state.” For example, Moon has trained in spinal reflex analysis, developed by Dr. Frank Jarrell, neuromuscular and craniosacral therapies, shiatsu and seven massage therapies. “Most AMTA members are CEU junkies,” quips Moon, who points out that national conventions provide continuing education and chapter meetings frequently introduce attendees to new techniques. Some practitioners discover specialties while in search of pain relief for personal injuries or other conditions.

Myofascial Therapy Olympia Hostler, a myofascial therapist in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, had two serious horse riding accidents during adolescence and three automobile accidents by age 40, which combined, left her so incapacitated that she could barely walk. “I couldn’t work for three years, because I was so debilitated,” relates Hostler. She found her doctor’s diagnosis of severe permanent damage to the body’s soft connective tissue, or fascia, and the prognosis of a lifetime of living with pain unacceptable. So she began searching for something that would help restore health. Her investigation of therapies ended with myofascial release, an effective wholebody approach to the treatment of pain

and dysfunction, developed by Physical Therapist John F. Barnes.

“I had several sessions and found lasting pain relief unlike anything I’d ever experienced,” advises Hostler.

Unlike massage therapies focused on improving circulation, inducing relaxation or draining lymph fluid, the myofascial treatment reached Hostler’s deepest layer of fascia to free the restrictions causing her pain. “It was amazing that a hands-on application of gentle, sustained pressure into areas of restriction in the myofascial connective tissue could begin to relieve many years of ongoing, intense pain,” says Hostler.

Rolfing As a Certified (advanced) Rolfer and Rolf Movement Practitioner, Robert McWilliams has been able to pursue his lifelong passion in the fields of movement and physical fitness, which included 25 years as a professional dancer and 14 as a professor of modern dance. He taught at both the University of Oklahoma and the University of Florida, in Gainesville.

“In the 1980s, while I was still dancing, I had an experience with Rolfing, developed by Ida P. Rolf [Ph.D.], that transformed my dancing, increased my athletic performance alignment, coordination, flexibility, balance, muscle tone, expressive power and overall sense of relaxation onstage, as well as in daily life,” relates McWilliams. He currently serves as an assistant teacher at the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration, in Boulder, Colorado, where he trained.

Although McWilliams’ clients generally see him to treat the pain and discomfort of injuries, he says that they frequently change their focus to how their body is working better overall.

“This is because injuries tend to resolve themselves after a few sessions of deep tissue manipulation of the myofascial system,” says McWilliams.

A specialized series of 10 sessions works to systematically balance and optimize both the structure (shape) and function (movement) of the entire body. Each session focuses on freeing up a particular region of the body. The effect releases old limiting patterns and postures and restores the body’s natural

alignment and sense of integration. “Often, as freedom of physical expression increases, so does emotional expression,” comments McWilliams.

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Structural Integration “While Rolfers graduate from The Rolf Institute and attend certified training programs in order to maintain their trademark, and structural integrators can attend any of 14 certified U.S. schools, we are all structural integrators; our training is based on the work of Ida Rolf,” says Diane Roth, a boardcertified structural integrator who has specialized in massage and bodywork for 25 years in the Chicago area.

Roth explains that all practitioners in this field of study combine handson freeing and realigning of fascial tissue with awareness and movement education, in order to structurally integrate the whole body. Restoration of postural balance and functional ease greatly helps the body, which, she says, constantly labors against the powerful force of gravity.

Like Moon, Roth has studied and incorporated other adjunct therapies and modalities, such as craniosacral therapy and myofascial release. From her perspective, bodywork differs from massage in that it requires more involvement from the client.

“I tell my clients that with a veritable village of treatments available, there is always help for anyone that suffers with aches and pains, regardless of age,” says Roth.

Shiatsu Shirley Scranta, owner and director of the International School of Shiatsu, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, discovered The Book of Shiatsu: The Healing Art of Finger Pressure, by Saul Goodman, in a health food store. She subsequently researched the school that Goodman founded in 1978, based on the theories of masunaga Zen shiatsu, kushi macrobiotic and his own shiatsu shin tai.

In 1996, Scranta became one of Goodman’s clients. “I drove a roundtrip of 240 miles for weekly treatments because each session made me feel better and stronger. After five sessions, I enrolled in classes and graduated later that year,” says Scranta. She believes

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the widely known form of acupressure helped her body reestablish its own intelligence system, which had been distorted by childhood trauma. “This gentle technique applies varying degrees of pressure to release tension, strengthen weak areas, facilitate circulation and balance the life energy that flows through the meridians in the body,� she explains. “In my case, it helped me connect with my body so that I could honor it and do what it needed to rejuvenate itself.�

Craniosacral Therapy Chiropractor Lisa Upledger is vice president of The Upledger Institute, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. A craniosacral therapy (CST) practitioner, educator and wife of CST developer Dr. John Upledger, she advises that tension-related problems are a growing complaint in our modern world. Fortunately, such issues are among the myriad conditions that respond quickly to the gentle touch of this modality.

In a 2007 Massage magazine article, she advised that the positive effects of the therapy rely to a large extent on the performance of the body’s inherent self-corrective mechanisms. “CST works through the craniosacral system to facilitate this function and thereby normalize the environ-

ment in which the central nervous system functions,� she noted. “As this is accomplished, a wide range of sensory, motor and neurological problems are improved.�

CST practitioners listen with their hands to the slow pulsations of the craniosacral system. With a soft touch, equivalent to the weight of a nickel, they explore any fascia restrictions throughout the client’s body, which rests fully clothed in a supine position. Effects of the treatment can be wide-ranging, affecting the musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiovascular and immune systems as well as organs, connective tissues and energy systems. It works to release deeply held physical and psychological patterns held within the body.

A coin with different impressions on each side is still only one coin, a blend of precious metals. When the coin is tossed to reveal either heads or tails, the visible symbol is one interpretation of the whole imprint—an analogy that may best define the difference between massage and bodywork. All variations on the theme share the same goal—restoring health to the whole person.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Find other natural living articles at her website, ItsAllAboutWe.com.

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drainage of the excess fluid that may collect in the legs and lower extremities due to edema. It’s important for expectant mothers to find a therapist trained in prenatal massage.

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FEEL-GOOD MASSAGE People’s Hands-Down Favorites

by Rachel Mork

A

ccording to the American Massage Therapy Association, 53 percent of those that seek out professional massages do it to manage and relieve stress. Healthcare professionals recommend it as a way to support overall well-being, and its popularity continues to grow with some 38 million current U.S. massage enthusiasts.

But which form of massage is best?

It depends on our personal preferences as well as which benefits we need, which may change from time to time.

Natural Awakenings asked several expert licensed massage therapists to distinguish among the most widely used massage therapies to help us make the right choice.

Swedish Massage “I’ve always wanted to create a bumper sticker that says, ‘Massage Prevents Road Rage,’” quips Kris Richardson, of Kristine Richardson Massage Therapy,

in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. She’s witnessed firsthand how, “Anyone that feels stressed can benefit from a Swedish massage.” During 12 years in the business, she’s helped clients ranging from Navy Seals to athletes from the Admirals professional hockey team, of Norfolk, Virginia, and Brown University’s swim team, in Providence, Rhode Island.

Swedish massage consists of long, gliding, gentle strokes on upper muscle layers, often abetted by kneading, pummeling, brushing and tapping. Swedish massage is especially effective in improving circulation and relaxation; relieving muscle tension and back and neck pain; and decreasing stress. As the lymphatic system is stimulated, oxygen flow to muscles increases, resulting in a relaxed, almost dreamlike state.

Prenatal Swedish massage is also popular among pregnant women.

Therapists apply minimal pressure to reduce back pain and to encourage

Hot stones enhance a Swedish or deep tissue massage through strategic placement of heated stones on the body to encourage the exchange of blood and lymph and provide ultimate relaxation of tense, tight muscles. Richardson particularly suggests it to counter “mouse syndrome”—her term for the nagging discomfort people can get from performing repetitive motions at a computer. Typically, the therapist first places a group of preheated stones on stubborn muscles, allowing the heat to penetrate knots, and then uses the stones to further massage muscles back to normal.

Deep Tissue Massage Nicole Russo, of Evolve Body Therapy Center, in Charlotte, North Carolina, is among America’s corps of therapists whose specialties include deep tissue massage. Nine years in, she has performed massage on sore pro football players with the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers, as well as Cirque du Soleil artists.

The primary goal of this style is to repair injured or overstressed muscles, which also leaves clients feeling better, sounder and more flexible. Russo advises, “Injuries are a result of uneven wear and tear, which results in postural imbalances.” So she applies slow strokes, proven kneading techniques and directed pressure via fingers, thumbs or elbows to work muscles from end-to-end, where they are attached to bones, addressing postural distortions, inflammatory pain and stored emotional tensions to restore muscle health.

Russo says deep tissue massage is usually targeted and intense, but, “It’s a massage that produces lasting results. My clients also often report that they don’t get headaches or backaches anymore.”

Shiatsu Massage Shiatsu massage is designed to leave a client feeling, “clear, sparkling and

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ready to do the next thing,� says Dawn Grey Lapierre, of Intuitive Massage Therapy, in Santa Cruz, California. She describes the experience as active, rather than passive. A licensed massage therapist for nearly 20 years, she also incorporates and applies principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine into each session.

For shiatsu massage, the fully clothed client lies on a mat. The therapist will apply pressure from the fingers, knuckles, elbows, knees and feet in a stimulating manner and also move the body into various positions in deep stretching. Shiatsu is used to release tension and strengthen weak areas in order to facilitate even circulation, cleanse cells and improve the function of vital organs.

Lapierre describes the experience as both invigorating and intimate. “I’m moving around on the floor with you, using my knees on the back of your thighs, or my feet on your back. I’m using any part of my body that will be useful in promoting better energy flow along the meridians in your body.�

Shiatsu delivers a vigorous massage; aficionados of more basic styles may graduate to using it.

Thai Massage Lapierre describes Thai massage as, “partner yoga, during which you’ll get stretched and pulled until I’ve worked every inch of your body.� She likes to

focus on acupressure points and kneads sore muscles until energy blockages are cleared and energy flow fully restored.

Thai massage also incorporates gentle rocking motions, rhythmic compression along the body’s energy meridians and passive stretching.

It promotes flexibility, inner organ massage, oxygenation of the blood, quieting of the mind and general well-being.

Traditional Thai therapy is performed on a mat using no oils, with the client fully clothed. Thai massage is a favorite among yoga students.

Reflexology For those new to massage and interested in trying it out, reflexology is a good way to start. Reflexology is performed only on the hands and feet, via finger and thumb massage, with the client fully clothed. It is based on the belief that specific reflex points on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands correspond with every major organ, gland and area of the body.

Lapierre works reflexology into all of her massages, explaining, “A lot of healing can be accomplished simply through working the hands and feet, because every part the body is mapped out to related pressure points on the hands and feet. Thus, we can clear energy channels and release tension throughout the body just by working these specific points.� Lapierre describes reflexology as calming and soothing.

Reflexology is especially suited for anyone wary about being touched; it is often incorporated with other forms of massage, as well.

Practitioners encourage everyone to find the form of massage that suits them best. “You will surely find one that brings you renewed vitality,� concludes Lapierre. “Massage not only feels good, it’s a good way to increase physical, mental and emotional health by reducing the effects of everyday stress. If you can’t take the day off to unwind, at least find an hour to get a massage.�

Rachel Mork is a freelance copywriter, editor and novelist in Charlotte, NC. Connect at RachelMork.com.

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greenliving

Rest in Peace Sustainable Burials Honor Life

look like a cemetery. Its native grasses and mature trees come alive with color each autumn. Wildflowers bloom in the spring and birds build their nests in treetop boughs.

“Most contemporary cemeteries are biological deserts,” observes Greensprings spokesperson and science writer Mary Woodsen. In contrast, Greensprings’ 100 acres are surrounded by 8,000 acres of protected forests. Loved ones may be buried in coffins from locally produced timber, or in shrouds—either professionally made or from a favorite blanket or quilt. Biodegradable caskets may be constructed of pine, cardboard, bamboo, formaldehyde-free plywood or hand-woven willow or wicker.

LastThings.net even offers free plans to make a simple coffin.

Instead of a machine, family members and friends ceremonially take hold of straps and lower the casket into a concrete vault themselves. Natural, flat fieldstones honor loved ones.

“People feel, ‘I was part of this,’” says Woodsen.

by Brita Belli

H

umans are conditioned to the conventional rituals of handling death—the embalmed body in a casket or ashes sealed in an urn, a procession of vehicles to the burial site, solemnly gathering and scattering flowers as the remains are lowered into the earth. Many times, planning details are abdicated to the judgment of funeral directors.

The notion of green burials envisions something different: a ceremony that engages family members’ ecovalues and nature in a more intimate, sustainable process favoring biodegradable caskets and no toxic chemicals.

The movement is gaining in popularity; in 2011, some 300 U.S. funeral homes offered green burial options, up from only 12 in 2008.

High Impact of Tradition Traditional American burial practices make a sizeable environmental footprint and also pose health risks. The carcinogenic embalming fluid—formaldehyde—is a well-known hazard.

A 2009 study in the Journal of the

National Cancer Institute found that exposure to formaldehyde over a career of embalming put funeral home workers at significantly increased risk for mortality from myeloid leukemia, a cancer of the blood cells. Alternatives include formaldehyde-free preservatives made from essential oils, and dry ice.

Significant resources are consumed in manufacturing caskets and vaults and maintaining cemetery grass. “A few years back I calculated that we bury enough metal in caskets to rebuild the Golden Gate Bridge each year and put so much concrete in the ground via burial vaults we could build a two-lane highway halfway across the country,” says Joe Sehee, founder of the Green Burial Council.

The council certifies and lists cemeteries, funeral homes and casket companies that forgo chemicals and offer natural landscapes. The goal is for burials to leave as little impact as possible on the planet.

Greener Plots Greensprings Natural Cemetery Preserve, in Newfield, New York, does not

Cremation Options Debate exists over the ecological impact of cremation—a practice expected to be chosen as the end-of-life choice for as many as 46 percent of Americans by 2015. While it reduces the use of large, resource-intensive burial plots, each traditionally cremated body releases 110 pounds of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, including carbon dioxide and monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, mercury and other metals.

The Bio Cremation greener alternative—using 95 percent water and 5 percent of an alkali instead of flames and fossil fuels—requires eight times less energy as fire-based cremation, produces no dangerous byproducts and still yields ashes from the remaining bones. To find the states that have approved the process, visit the legislative section at BioCremationInfo.com.

Biodegradable urns are also available, including cornstarch bags accented with leaves and petals, sculpted natural salt containers and baskets made of virgin palm. Sandcastle urns are suited for home display or ocean

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burial (InTheLightUrns. com). Memorial blown-glass artwork is another option for remains (Tropical GlassDesign.com).

Scattering ashes—whether casting them into the air or over a body of water, burying them or raking them into the soil—provides an intimate burial experience and has minimal environmental consequences. Sehee says it’s legal on private land and also allowed in some parks.

“It rarely does harm to the ecosystem,” he says. “Calling your local park agency is a great idea. Many allow for scattering and some without a fee.”

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency governs the disposal of cremated remains at sea—it must take place at least three nautical miles from land and may include artful flowers and wreaths of decomposable materials. Even non-cremated remains may be buried at sea, provided it takes place at the same distance from land in water that is between 600 and 1,800 feet deep, depending on the location.

Another sea burial option is offered by Eternal Reefs, a company that mixes remains into liquid concrete as the centerpiece of a personalized reef ball, lowered to the ocean floor to provide a home for marine life. Before the boat heads out, family members are invited to press handprints into the wet concrete and to decorate the ball with shells and other mementos.

Reef balls can hold from one to four people, plus a pet. Sites are currently available off the Florida, New Jersey and Texas shorelines and can be revisited at any time.

“We don’t look at it as a funeral,” remarks CEO George Frankel. “We’re months or years removed from the passing. This is a celebration of life.”

Brita Belli is the editor of E-The Environmental Magazine and author of The Autism Puzzle: Connecting the Dots Between Environmental Toxins and Rising Autism Rates. Connect at BritaBelli.com.

healthykids

Peace First’s partner schools experience an average reduction of 60 percent in incidences of violence and 50 percent fewer weapons brought to school, plus a 70 to 80 percent increase in observed student peacemaking.

BULLY BLUES BUSTERS

Positive Ways to Promote Kindness

by Meredith Montgomery

T

he National Education Association estimates that 160,000 children miss school every day due to fears of being attacked or intimidated by other students. Bullying is more than a buzzword. According to StopBullying.gov, it’s defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-age children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance.

Kelly Hughes, a school counselor at Bayside Academy, in Daphne, Alabama, has noticed a dramatic shift in bullying behaviors. She observes, “Kids are not hitting or punching or pushing each other as much as they used to. Rather, they are using in-person relational aggression such as hurtful words, glares, whispering and excluding individuals, exacerbated by social media and cell phones.”

While anti-bullying legislation exists in 49 states (Montana is the

exception), approaches for addressing this problem vary. Hughes says, “In my job, I spend a lot of time saying, ‘Just be kind.’ More positive results come from promoting kind behaviors and being ‘pro-hero’ than from simply discussing why bullying is hurtful.”

Calmly Taking Charge Eric D. Dawson, president and cofounder of Boston-based Peace First (PeaceFirst.org), also believes in the power of positive language. “We need to move away from harsh language that focuses kids on what not to do and instead ignite their moral imagination—call on them to be problem solvers,” he says.

To counter bullying in society, Dawson suggests that we all need to be role models, and talk about and celebrate peacemaking. “We can’t expect our kids to listen to us when we tell them to be peaceful and

share if they then see us aggressively cut in front of others on the road or in the checkout line. We can also ask kids how they were peacemakers during their day, in addition to what they learned.”

Founded in 1992 in response to the youth violence epidemic, Peace First provides programs and free online tools to help teach students peacemaking skills. The nonprofit is based on the premise that children have a natural aptitude for it and peacemaking can be taught, just like other subjects; their curriculum teaches and reinforces core social/ emotional skills in communication, creative conflict resolution, courage, cooperation, empathy and civic engagement.

A New York City student remarks, “Peace First teaches that even if you don’t like someone, it shouldn’t affect how you work together to accomplish something... [putting] peace first makes my heart beat lovelier.”

Good for Us and Others The International Forgiveness Institute (IFI) (InternationalForgiveness. com), in Madison, Wisconsin, has added its support to the anti-bullying movement. Stemming from the research of IFI founder Robert Enright, Ph.D., and his colleagues, the institute works to forward forgiveness for personal, group and societal renewal. It attests that in forgiving a hurtful person, a personal transformation begins that can enhance selfesteem and hopefulness. Enright’s

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scientific studies further demonstrate that when children learn about forgiveness, feelings of anger, depression and anxiety are reduced. “We believe that forgiveness is a choice,� explains Enright. “When you forgive, you may benefit the person you forgive, but you benefit yourself far more.�

Enright recalls his experiences working with incarcerated men that were serving life sentences. “The first thing the assigned therapists asked the group to do was to tell me their story; tell me about the hurts that had been perpetrated on them. One man began to cry, saying that no one had ever asked for his story.� The therapists listened to a tale of the cruel disciplinary measures he had endured at home as a child and recognized a correlation with the crime he had committed. “I’m not justifying his actions, but we can see that he was an extremely wounded man. Many bullies in school have a story, and we need to take the time to hear their story. “Because those that engage in bullying are often filled with rage from having been bullied themselves, they get to a point that they don’t care about the consequences of their actions, including detention,� Enright continues. Instead of focusing on the prevention of

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unwanted behaviors, he says, “Our program is meant to take the anger out of the heart of those that bully, so they bully no more.�

An elementary school-age participant in the Forgiveness Program concludes, “Sometimes it is hard to forgive someone straight away if they really hurt your feelings. It might take longer to see their worth and show them real forgiveness‌ but it is worth it in the end.â€?

Meredith Montgomery is the publisher of Natural Awakenings Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).

Peace in Action When a first-grader returned to class shaken up after being accosted by a fourth-grader in the restroom, his teacher stepped back to see how the class would use Peace First principles. The boy was immediately embraced by his classmates, who quickly concluded that it was every student’s right, not a luxury, to feel safe, and thereafter implemented a restroom buddy system.

The offending fourth-grader was then invited into their classroom to hear how each of the first-graders felt personally affected by the incident. He was also required to spend recess with the first-graders for the next two weeks. It became a transformative experience for everyone involved. The older student was recast from victimizer to a responsible, caring individual.

He has continued to display improved behavior, volunteering to help in the classroom and foregoing lunch periods with friends to support the first-graders and their teacher. “There’s a misconception that peacemaking is holding hands and singing songs,� says Peace First President Eric D. Dawson. “It’s more a set of skills that’s nurturing human development. It’s working together to solve a problem.�

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calendarofevents FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Winter Festival: Dog Days of Winter – 9am-6pm, Daily through February 2013. Bring your dogs to the Garden for Dog Days of Winter. Walk the Garden with your pup and play in the “No Leash Zone.”

Enjoy the interesting displays of Barkitecture, which are uniquely created dog houses on display throughout the Garden. Each Saturday during Dog Days we will feature a different dog-friendly business or organization. Admission charged. Huntsville Botanical Garden, 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805. 256-830-4447. Hsvbg.org.

Seeds to Sprouts: Bees – 10-11am. Meet other parents while nature comes alive for adults and children alike. Enjoy stories, lessons, hands-on activities and guided tours. Admission charged. Huntsville Botanical Garden, 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805. 256-830-4447. HSVBG.org.

Huntsville Photographic Society: 2012 Members’ Showcase – 11am-4pm. An annual juried selection of approximately 50 outstanding photographs by members of the Huntsville Photographic Society.

Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-535-4350. HSVMuseum.org Sound and Vision: Monumental Rock and Roll Photography – 11am-4pm, daily throughout 2013.

An exhibition of 40 large-scale images that documents the rock music scene from the early 1960s through 1990s. Musicians include Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and many more. Among the photographers included are Harry Benson, Joel Brodsky, Art Kane, and Mark Seliger. Organized by The Columbus Museum, Columbus, GA. Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-535-4350. HSVMuseum.org.

Ricky Nelson Remembered – 7:30-9:30pm. This unique multimedia entertainment experience features the live music of Ricky Nelson performed

by Ricky’s own twin sons Matthew and Gunnar Nelson. Celebrate the life of America’s original ‘Teen Idol’ with never-before-seen video footage of the Nelson family that includes interviews from celebrities influenced by Ricky Nelson. Admission charged. Merrimack Hall Performing Arts Center, 3320 Triana Boulevard, Huntsville, AL 35805. 256534-6455. MerrimackHall.com.

in include: storytelling, nature discovery walks as well as make and take crafts. Hays Nature Preserve, Huntsville, AL 35763. HuntsvilleAl.gov.

Pet Product Invention Competition – 10am6pm. MindGear Labs is teaming up with Rocket City Pets to bring you the Pet Product Invention Competition. We know that people love their pets and are constantly thinking of ways to make their pets happy. What better way to make your pet happy than inventing a product they will love. Admission charged. Mind Gear Labs, LLC, 8331 Madison Blvd, Suite 200B, Madison, AL 35758.

Opus Tadpole: Viola – 10:15-11am. Attending children and parents will have fun discovering the answers to all their musical questions and more during this Opus Tadpole Presentation. Experience entertaining and interactive ways for listeners to learn about instruments of the orchestra. Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-533-1953. VonBraunCenter.com.

Sneak Preview- Love Hurts presented by Huntsville Symphony Orchestra – 11am-1pm.

Mike Svoboda brings his composition, Love Hurts -Carmen Remix, to Huntsville for its American premiere and to enhance an already thrilling evening at the symphony. Get a glimpse of the artists in a working setting while attending final rehearsals that are open to the public. Perfect for families, seniors, and students. Admission charged. Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-5331953. VonBraunCenter.com.

2013 Gala Art Exhibition – 11am-4pm, throughout February. This important fundraiser for the Huntsville Museum of Art presents over 100 artworks in a range of media and styles, to be auctioned to the highest bidder during the annual Gala event. This year’s Gala Featured artist is Kevin LePrince of Charleston, SC. Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-535-4350.

HSVMuseum.org.

Learning Expo 2013 – 12-5pm. This event highlights Independent Schools, Magnet Programs, Homeschooling Resources, Education Related Business and more this is an opportunity for parents to find all the information they need in one place in one afternoon. Davidson Center for Space Exploration, 1 Tranquility Base Huntsville, AL 35805.

1-800-63-SPACE. USSRC.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Nature Explore Families’ Club-Texture Adventure 10-11am. Operation Green Team, a Keep America Beautiful affiliate, is beginning a Nature Explore Families’ Club. The goal of the club is to inspire children and their families to connect with the natural world and spend quality time outdoors. Fun activities that Families’ Club participants take part

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Love Hurts presented by Huntsville Symphony Orchestra – 7:30-9:30pm. Mike Svoboda brings his composition, Love Hurts - Carmen Remix, to Huntsville for its American premiere and to enhance an already thrilling evening at the symphony. Admission charged. Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-533-1953. HSO.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Martha Pullen School of Art Fashion – February 3- February 10. Attend a class at the Martha Pullen School of Art Fashion and learn new sewing techniques while creating lovely garments. There is a place for everyone from beginners to those wanted to keep in touch with their inner love of sewing, and nourish it. Lead by renowned sewing instructors, each of our classes will fill you with inspiration and surround you with friends who love to sew. Admission charged. Von Braun Center South Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-533-1953 VonBraunCenter.com.

Film Co-op Monthly Workshop – 2-4pm. The Film Co-op monthly workshop meets in Don’s Studio (264). If you have a work in progress that you would like to discuss, bring a sample to show. Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment,2211 Seminole Drive, Huntsville, AL 35805. 256-457-5371. LoweMill.net.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Going to the Stars- Is it Possible? – 7-9pm.

The Tennessee Valley Interstellar Workshop, the Huntsville AL L5 Society, and Calhoun Community College invite you to spend an evening with some space visionaries who are meeting this week in Huntsville to discuss the possibilities of interstellar flight. Calhoun Community College Huntsville Campus, 102B Wynn Drive Northwest, Huntsville, AL 35805. LesJohnsonAuthor.com.

Twelfth Night By American Shakespeare Center on Tour – 7-10pm. The critically acclaimed American Shakespeare Center touring company comes to Huntsville. Admission charged. UAHuntsville University Center, 301 Sparkman Drive Northwest, Huntsville, AL 35899. 256-776-0037.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Love’s Labour’s Lost by William Shakespeare 7-10pm. The critically acclaimed American Shakespeare Center touring company comes to Huntsville.

Admission charged. UAHuntsville University Center, 301 Sparkman Drive Northwest, Huntsville, AL 35899. 256-776-0037.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7 The Duchess of Malfi by John Webster –7-10pm.

The critically acclaimed American Shakespeare Center touring company comes to Huntsville. Admission charged. UAHuntsville University Center, 301 Sparkman Drive Northwest, Huntsville, AL 35899. 256-776-0037.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Open Hearth Cooking – 10am-3pm. Wander throughout the park and enjoy the sights, sounds,

and smells of open hearth cooking. There will be cooks in the historic houses who will be happy to show you how to cook their specialty over an open fire and how to use an iron cook stove. You’ll see how to roast a chicken and bake bread without the convenience of a modern oven. Cooks may even be willing to share a secret recipe or two. Burritt on the Mountain, 3101 Burritt Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-536-2882. BurrittOnTheMountain.org.

Independent Mission Marketer

Mary Achatz Lois Mailou Jones: A Life in Vibrant Color – 11am-4pm. The first major retrospective features more than 70 paintings, textiles, and sketches from the pioneering African American artist’s 75-year career. Jones was inspired by the social struggles that she witnessed in the U.S. as well as by travels to Martha’s Vineyard, France, Haiti and Africa. Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-535-4350. HSVMuseum.org.

t Toxic-free skin and body care t Living, raw, organic and gluten-free foods

t Products to help jump start diets and cleansing mlac@otelco.net 256-509-0823 www.maryachatz.mybeyondorganic.com

Medi Gras Bash – 6-10pm. Join Huntsville Hospital Foundation for the annual Medi Gras Bash benefitting Madison Hospital. This fun event will feature a casual New Orleans style Cuisine buffet, signature drink with souvenir glass, Cash Bar, Live Music, and a fabulous Silent Auction. Jackson Center, 600 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL 35806. 256-327-7321. JacksonCenter.net.

The Dog Ball – 6-10pm. The Very Important Dog lineup promises to be a show stopping spectacular consisting of all types of dogs with their own stories and humor. This event will have you dancing in your seats knowing you have helped the beloved shelter animals that need the care, food, and shelter provided by the GHHS. Von Braun Center South Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-533-1953. TheDogBall.org.

Gifts Stranger than Fiction—7:30-8pm. Knology Cable Channel 11. Inspiring stories and insights from Harold Klemp, spiritual leader and acclaimed author of more than sixty books on Eckankar Learn how to discover the gifts of Divine Spirit—stranger than fiction—in your own life. Free. Huntsville ECK Center, 900 Wellman Avenue, #3 (near Five Points). 256-534-1751. ECK-Alabama.org.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Spiritual Wisdom on Dreams – 2-3pm. Free introductory presentation and discussion for people of all faiths. Learn how to have better recall and understanding of your dreams―as both real spiritual experiences and practical tools for improving your everyday life. Huntsville ECK Center, 900 Wellman Avenue, #3 (near Five Points). 256-534-1751. ECK-Alabama.org.

Shoals Heart Ball – 6pm-12am. The Heart Ball promises to be an engaging evening of fun and passion bringing community and philanthropic leaders together. The American Heart Association’s mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, and this evening celebrates that mission, along with the donors, volunteers, and the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s effort. Marriott Shoals Conference Center, 800 Cox Creek Parkway South, Florence, AL 35630.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Broadway Theatre League Presents Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild Live 3-5pm. Recognized around the country as America’s favorite zookeeper, Jack Hanna’s live show features many of his favorite animal friends, as well as fascinating and humorous stories and footage from his adventures around the world. Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-533-1953. VonBraunCenter.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Alzheimer’s Association’s Alabama Day on the Hill – Join the Alzheimer’s Association for their 2nd Annual Day on the Hill, traveling with local advocates to Montgomery to speak on a personal level to the representatives of the

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Alabama House and Senate. Joe Davis Stadium, 3125 Leeman Ferry Road, Huntsville, AL 35801.

1-800-272-3900 Milb.com.

Tuesdays at 2:00: Quilling – 2-3pm. Every Tuesday at 2:00 join our Historic Park Interpreters for a special treat as they demonstrate a traditional craft or chore. Many times you are welcome to join in and experience the activity for yourself. Burritt on the Mountain, 3101 Burritt Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-536-2882. BurrittOnTheMountain.org.

Landscape for Life: Successful Plant Practices and the Role of Materials in a Sustainable Garden – 6-7:30pm. Landscape For Life is based on the principles of the Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES), the nation’s first rating system for sustainable landscapes. Admission charged. Huntsville Botanical Garden, 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805. 256-830-4447. HSVBG.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Exercise and Low Back Pain – 5:30-7pm. Don’t let back pain keep you from being healthy and fit. The Medical Mall Wellness Center is offering a free education class to help you learn how to improve your low back pain with exercise. Topics will include the causes of back pain, precautions to take while exercising, and corrective exercises. Medical Mall Wellness Center, 1963 Memorial Parkway SW, Suite 17 Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-265-7100.

To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. ~ Buddha

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Jeremy Davis and the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra – 7:30-9:30pm, Feb 14-16. Live from Savannah, GA, raised in the Louisiana Delta and now performing across the nation, Jeremy Davis is proud to present his Fabulous Equinox Orchestra. Together, they will take you on an epic journey of “Great American Swagger” as they highlight some of the best songs ever composed.

Merrimack Hall Performing Arts Center, 3320 Triana Boulevard, Huntsville, AL 35805. 256-5346455. MerrimackHall.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Fantasy Playhouse Presents Dragon of Nitt – 7-9pm. The villagers of Nitt have everything: good neighbors, plenty to eat, a verdant forest nearby, except happiness. To recover happiness, someone must recover the silver box of happiness and return it safely to Nitt. Admission Charged. Von Braun Center Playhouse, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-539-6829. VonBraunCenter.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16 We Will Rock You: The Music of Queen presented by Huntsville Symphony Orchestra – 7:30-9:30pm. Classic rock meets orchestra when the HSO and the musicians of Jeans ‘n Classics present the familiar and delightful greatest hits of the super 80’s band Queen. Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-533-1953. VonBraunCenter.com.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Civil Rights Bus Tour to Birmingham – 8:45am5pm. Enjoy a Civil Rights trip to Birmingham for lunch at Niki’s West (extra cost), a 16th Street Baptist Church tour, and a self-guided tour at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Cost is $39, under 65; $35 over 65, and covers bus and entrance fees.

A trip liability waiver is required. Contact Sophie Young at 256-532-2362 for details. HuntsvilleMadison County Public Library, 915 Monroe St, Huntsville, AL 35801. Hmcpl.org.

2013 Gala Art Exhibition – 11am-4pm. This important fundraiser for the Huntsville Museum of Art presents over 100 artworks in a range of media and styles, to be auctioned to the highest bidder during the annual Gala event. This year’s Gala Featured artist is Kevin LePrince of Charleston, SC. Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church St, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-535-4350. HsvMuseum.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Nonprofit Lunch & Learn: “Online Newsletters” 12-1pm. Despite the proliferation of social networking platforms, studies show the majority

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of Americans still use email as one of their chief forms of communication. Sophie Young will demonstrate how to use MailChimp’s free e-mail newsletters service to communicate effectively and efficiently with your customers. Bring a sack lunch.

Drinks will be provided. No registration required.

Huntsville-Madison County Public Library, 915 Monroe St, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-532-5940.

Hmcpl.org.

Broadway Theatre League presents Elvis Lives 7:30-9:30pm. Elvis Lives is an unforgettable multimedia and live musical journey across Elvis’ life. His iconic style, embraced by many of today’s artists, continues to intrigue audiences of all generations.

Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville, AL 35801. 256-5331953. VonBraunCenter.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 2013 Heart Society Ball – 6-11pm. The Heart Ball promises to be an engaging evening of fun and passion bringing community and philanthropic leaders together. The American Heart Association’s mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, and this evening celebrates that mission, along with the donors, volunteers, and the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s effort. The Westin Huntsville, 6800 Governors West, NW, Huntsville, Alabama 35806. 256-428-2000.

WestinHuntsville.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Laptop Learners: Internet – 10am-12pm. Computer class for laptop owners. Learn about using a web browser, basic searching online, and locating websites. Sign up at Murphy Library or by calling 256-881-5620. Limited number of laptops are available for loan. Please ask during sign-up to reserve.

Eleanor E. Murphy Branch Library, 7910 Charlotte Drive, Huntsville AL 35802. Murphy@hmcpl.org.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Health Forum: Heart Attack – 11am-12pm. Frank Bohlinger, CRNP, of Heart Center, Inc., gives an informative talk on what goes into a heart attack, how to prevent one, and what to do if you have one.

Huntsville-Madison County Public Library, Second Floor Meeting Rom. 915 Monroe St, Huntsville, AL 35801. Hmcpl.org.

How to Do Things: Publishing 101 – 6:30-8pm.

What does it take to get your book from your desk onto a bookstore shelf? Bestselling author Kimberly Lang explains the basics of the business, including Publishing Models, Agents, and how to protect yourself from scams. For more info, contact Sophie Young at 256-532-2362.

Huntsville-Madison County Public Library, Second Floor Meeting Rom. 915 Monroe St, Huntsville, AL 35801. Hmcpl.org.

ongoingevents sunday Meditation – 8:30am. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville, AL. 256-883-8596.

CSL-Huntsville.org.

A Course in Miracles Study Group – 9:15am.

Shared reading and group discussions. Extra books available. Light of Christ Center, 4208 Holmes Ave, Huntsville, AL. 256-895-0255. LightOfChrist Center.org.

Revealing Service – 9:45am. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville, AL. 256883-8596. CSL-Huntsville.org.

Celebration Service – 10:30am. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville, AL. 256-883-8596. CSL-Huntsville.org.

Unity Church on the Mountain Worship Service 11am, with Metaphysical Discussion at 9:30am.

Unity is a positive path for spiritual living. Reverend Phillip Fischer. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville, AL. 256-5362271. UnityChurchOnTheMountain.org.

1-Hour Mystery School – 11am. A different service each week including ritual, music, and a message in an open, loving environment. Light of Christ Center, 4208 Holmes Ave, Huntsville, AL. 256-895-0255.

LightOfChristCenter.org.

monday Yoga Class – 6-7:15pm. Iyengar-based yoga focuses on form, technique and alignment. Body Language Pilates, 305 Jefferson St, Suite C, Huntsville, AL. 256-704-5080. BodyLanguagePilates.com.

tuesday

Beginner/Intermediate Mat Class – 6-7pm. This class adds more exercises from the series and will challenge one’s mind/body connections. Body Language Pilates, 305 Jefferson St, Ste C, Huntsville, AL. 256-704-5080. BodyLanguagePilates.com.

“Attracting Perfect Customers” Class – 6:30pm.

A logical, and practical step in the marketing process. Check website for updated class availability.

Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville, AL. 256-536-2271. UnityChurchOn TheMountain.org.

Solving your health puzzle Herbs Vitamins

wednesday HypnoBirthing Classes – 6-8:30pm. Each class is a series of 5 consecutive weeks and includes the HypnoBirthing book and Rainbow Relaxation CD. Classes are held at “A Nurturing Moment,” 7540 Memorial Parkway SW, Ste B, Huntsville, AL 35802. To register, contact Marsha Mathes, HB Practitioner, at 256-698-2151 or Mathes79@ knology.net.

Meditation – 6pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville, AL. 256-883-8596.

CSL-Huntsville.org.

Art Critique at Lowe Mill – 6-7pm, fourth Wednesday of each month. In the interest of nourishing our expanding artists’ community we are reviving the Art Critique here at Lowe Mill. The hope is that these critiques provide opportunity for Artist: interaction, expression, and growth. All we ask is that all attending come with the spirit to: create, share and express without reservation. Lowe Mill‎, 2211 Seminole Dr SW, Huntsville, AL. 256-533-0399.

LoweMill.net‎.

Satsang – 6:30pm. Satsang is a sanskrit word that means” to sit in truth.” Satsang is a meeting with our true nature that is pure awareness. This sacred circle brings an opportunity to explore our deepest knowing. Through group discussion and inquiry, we

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256-883-4127 7540-P S. Memorial Pkwy Rosie’s Shopping Center Huntsville, Alabama

Open Monday-Saturday RuthsNutrition.com

Detoxification and Gluten-Free Lectures – 5:306:30pm, every 2nd Tuesday each month. Come hear how to safely lose weight while detoxifying your liver. Lectures include information about how to live gluten free. More and more people are discovering that they have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

You can find answers to how to thrive in a world filled with wheat. Lectures are free to the public.

Progressive Family Medicine/Alternative Medicine, 1230 Slaughter Rd, Suite C, Madison, AL 35758.

256-722-6555.

Meditation – 6pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville, AL. 256-883-8596.

CSL-Huntsville.org.

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WHOAGA! HORSEBACK YOGA

reveal the innate wisdom of the one presence living life as each one of us. Led

by Rev. David Leonard. Meditation at 6pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville, AL. 256-883-8596. CSL-Huntsville.org.

24 Hours of WHOA-GA! 8-Week Program

“You Are A Powerful Creator” – 6:30pm. A class that will guide you how to create the life you want. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville, AL. 256-536-2271. UnityChurchOnTheMountain.org.

3x/Week includes riding lessons, horseback yoga & guided practice

Cathy Reynolds, Instructor Call or Text 802-855-1627 whoaga@gmail.com

Searching? – The Red Mountain Study Group of Huntsville invites inquiries from men and women, no matter what their beliefs, who are still searching for the meaning of their lives now and here. Our work includes meditation, practice and study based on the teaching of G. I. Gurdjieff. We are affiliated with the Gurdjieff Foundation of New York. 256-361-9575. Email: rmsg@att.net.

thursday Fusion Pilates – 9-10am. A fusion of Pilates and Hanna Somatic work teaching one to access and strengthen one’s deepest connections bringing balance to one’s spine and overall posture. Body Language Pilates, 305 Jefferson St, Ste C, Huntsville, AL. 256-704-5080. BodyLanguagePilates.com.

“Course in Miracles” – 6:30pm. A class that will positively change your life.

Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville, AL. 256536-2271. UnityChurchOnTheMountain.org.

friday AQUAPONICS Free Farm Tours: Held on the 1st Saturday of each month at 9 a.m.

Aquaponics Training: Learn from table top, to backyard, to commerical scale operation.

Be prepared with food independence and save on groceries.

Grow your own fresh fish, shrimp and organic produce.

TodaysGreenAcres.com

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256-679-9488

Jin Shin Jyutsu

®

of Huntsville

Aiding Healing through Body Harmony & Relaxation

SANDRA COPE

Certified Jin Shin Jyutsu® Practitioner (256) 534-1794 Office (256) 509-3540 Cell

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Public Clearance Session – 7pm. Third Friday each month. Learn effective healing through reception and application of Divine energies. Light of Christ Center, 4208 Holmes Ave, Huntsville, AL. 256-895-0255.

saturday HypnoBirthing Classes – 10am-12:30pm. Each class is a series of 5 consecutive weeks and includes the HypnoBirthing book and Rainbow Relaxation CD. Classes will be held at “Hypnosis, Facials & Massage by Marsha,” 3313 Memorial Parkway SW, Ste 116, Huntsville, AL 35801. To register, contact Marsha Mathes, HB Practitioner, at 256-698-2151 or Mathes79@knology.net.

Artist Market – 12-4pm. Local artists and others are invited to set up a booth and sell their wares to the public. There will be art, jewelry, vintage clothing, records, and more interesting things for sale inside our facility. Safe from rain.

Free admission. Flying Monkey Arts Center at Lowe Mill, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville, AL. FlyingMonkeyArts.org.

Community HU Song – 1:30-2pm. Join others in singing HU, an ancient love song to God that can help and uplift you in countless ways. Held each Saturday.

Huntsville ECK Center, 900 Wellman Avenue, #3 (near Five Points). 256-5341751. ECK-Alabama.org.

Reiki Free Clinic (no charge) – 2-4pm. Every Third Saturday of each month.

Center for Personal Growth, 924-B Merchant Walk Way SW, Huntsville, AL. For appointments, contact Shari Feinman-Prior at Shari1717@gmail.com.

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Editor@Natvalley.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE THE NEELEY CENTER FOR HEALTH 600 Saint Clair Avenue SW, Bldg. 5 Suite 11 Huntsville, AL 35801 256-716-4048 Hours: T-F, 9am-5pm, Sat 8am-12pm House calls by Appointment Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Chinese Herbology, Pastoral Counseling, Beam Ray Therapy, Rapid Eye Technology, Nutritional Supplementation, Detoxification.

CHILD BIRTH SERVICES

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

CENTER FOR PERSONAL GROWTH

HOPE FOR LIFE COLON HYDROTHERAPY Amanda Mashburn, owner/certified colon hydrotherapist 10300 Bailey Cove Road, Suite-7A Huntsville, AL 35803 256-270-8731 hope4lifeal.com Our goal is to live long and live strong. Young or old, male or female, healthy or sick, will benefit from an internal cleansing.

Mention this ad and get $10 off your first colonic session.

10 MOONS RISING BIRTH SERVICES Donna Mitchell CPM, CLC, BMsc 10MoonsRising.com Midwife@consultant.com 256-566-9305 Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee 10 Moons Rising Birth Services offers education and resources for women during pregnancy. We offer counseling in nutrition, herbal teas, VBACs, Out of Hospital births in TN and MS, midwifery care, prenatal visits, postpartum visits, doulas and monitrices.

We specialize in natural birth options in the North Alabama/Tennessee area. We have Certified Lactation Consultants also available for consult.

JARVIS NATURAL HEALTH CLINIC

CENTER FOR OPTIMAL WELLBEING U’Jeana Wilson Owner/Certified Colon Hydrotherapist Degree in Psychology 256-489-9806 Center for Optimal Wellbeing is the longest operating colonic therapy provider in Huntsville. First time clients have expressed immediate feelings of increased energy levels and improved efficiency in waste elimination. You will enjoy the experience of your own “personal cleansing spa” as you receive colon hydrotherapy (colonic), far infrared sauna, an optional massaging shower, and ionic footbath services—in a clean, comfortable, and relaxing private environment. Call for directions and a 10% discount on your first service when you mention Natural Awakenings or use code COWB.

Shari Feinman-Prior 915-B Merchant Walk Way, SW Huntsville, AL 35801 256-289-3331 Shari1717@gmail.com “SPARK YOUR LIGHT” FROM WITHIN YOUR TRUE BEING and TRANSFORM your life. Offering an individualized integrative approach from energy psychology: Inner Counselor Process, Rapid Eye Technology, Healing Touch, Reiki, and Life Skills Coaching, to create change in deep seated patterns of behavior for a healthy and joyful life.

FAMILY MEDICINE PROGRESSIVE FAMILY MEDICINE

1489 Slaughter Road, Madison 256-837-3448 I-ACT Certified Colon Hydro Therapists. Do you know that 80% of your immune system is in your colon?

Bathe your body from the inside to improve health.

Colon irrigation aids in soothing and toning the colon, which makes elimination more effective.

ENERGY HEALING CENTER FOR DIRECTIONAL HEALING™

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

ENERGY PSYCHOLOGY

Susan Spalding 2225 Drake Ave. SW, Suite 18 Huntsville, 35805 256-882-0360 DirectionalHealing.com For over 20 years, Susan Spalding and the staff at the Center for Directional Healing have been helping people achieve harmonic health through Directional Healing, Reflexology, and now the Amethyst Biomat.

Clients may choose a single service, or combine all three for the most complete healing experience. Healing techniques, articles, and more information are available online at DirectionalHealing.com.

Chad Gilliam, M.M.S. PA-C 1230 Slaughter Road, Suite C, Madison, AL 256-722-0555 ProFamilyMed.com Progressive Family Medicine provides medical care for patients of all ages and uniquely blends Natural and Prescription medicines together to help speed the patient’s recovery. Progressive Family Medicine is the patient’s clinic of choice when they would like to understand how natural medicines work along with prescription drugs.

FENG SHUI FENG SHUI BY TRUDI GARDNER Trudi Gardner, M.S. 256-772-6999 Tygard2000@aol.com An interior design philosophy that invites serenity and reduces stress.

Feng Shui design concepts brings positive energy into your home and office to encourage Prosperity, Well Being, Harmony, and Balance.

Begin to see yourself as a soul with a body rather than a body with a soul. ~ Wayne Dyer natural awakenings

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HAIR SALON

HYPNOTHERAPY

MASSAGE

CJ HAIR AND ART STUDIO

MARSHA MATHES

DIXIE PHILLIPS (LMT#2151)

CJ Denison 105E Church St Madison, AL 35758 256-603-9018

Certified Hypnotist 3313 Memorial Parkway, Ste 116 Huntsville, AL 35801 256-698-2151 MarshaMathes.SkinCareTherapy.net

Dixie’s Sunrise Massage Therapy 3313 Memorial Parkway, Ste #116 Huntsville, AL 35801 256-585-0504 Hoss2ride@otelco.net

Specializing in NATURAL Hairstyles. Cuts with Texture and Movement. Specializing in Fine Hair, Razor cuts, Men's Hair Pieces with A NATURAL Look.

Specializing in Hair Color OFF the Scalp. Hair Painting. A Safer way to Color or HiLight Your Hair to Help in Decreasing the Exposure to the Scalp. HEALTHY HAIR is HAPPY HAIR. Also Original Art Work and Private Art lessons available. Call Today for YOUR Appointment.

HOLISTIC MEDICINE HOLISTIC MEDICAL CENTER OF ALABAMA, P.A.

Hypnosis is a tool to assist you in countless ways to heal your past, empower your present and create your future: • HypnoBirthing Classes • Quit smoking • Weight loss • Nail and lip biting • Teeth grinding • Insomnia • Anxiety and stress relief • Phobias and fears • Pain relief • Sports enhancement • PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder) • Current and Past Life Regressions

JIN SHIN JYUTSU®

Rodney D. Soto, M.D., ABHIM, FAARFM 12205 County Line Road, Ste. E Madison, AL 256-325-1648 HolisticAlabama.com

JIN SHIN JYUTSU OF HUNTSVILLE

We offer an innovative model for health care that encompasses an individualized approach in order to balance and harmonize the mind, body and spirit thru a comprehensive assessment of your nutritional, hormonal, intestinal and immunological systems for the prevention and reversal of diseases.

Certified Jin Shin Jyutsu Practitioner. An easy, effective way of restoring health and well-being by balancing the body’s energy pathways to enhance the body’s natural healing abilities.

Sandra Cope Huntsville 256-534-1794 256-509-3540

MASSAGE HYPNOTHERAPY CENTER FOR INNER WELLNESS Becky Waters Certified Hypnotherapist and Professional Breathworker 3322 S. Memorial Parkway, Suite 641 Huntsville, AL 256-348-5236 Creating positive change through hypnotherapy and Breathwork. Empowering you to live to your highest potential. Relieve stress and anxiety, release negativity, pain management, pre/post medical procedure, fears/phobias, weight loss, smoking cessation, and more

With six years experience, Dixie uses Deep Tissue, Swedish, Fascia BodyWork, Reiki, Jin Shin Do and Medicupping to release stress, knots and improve circulation for overall wellness.

J. L. JONES LMT AL#3610 Chi of Life Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, LLC ChiOfLifeMassage@gmail.com 2310 Whitesburg Dr, Suite 4 Huntsville, AL 256-812-1284 BodyWorkByJL@gmail.com ChiOfLife.MassageTherapy.com Chi of Life Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, LLC practicing at Exhale Day Spa. Please come and see me for relief from discomfort and disfunction from muscular and tendinous stress and injury and for detoxification and energetic assistance. Offering Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, Muscle Energy Techniques, Neuromuscular Techniques (Trigger Point Therapy), Reiki and Integrative Reflexology. See Website for discount.

MEETING ROOMS/ EVENT SPACE

CAROLYN NEAL (L.M.T. #422)

LIGHT OF CHRIST CENTER

220 Rhett Ave, Suite D Huntsville, AL 35801 256-694-9044

4208 Holmes Ave, Huntsville 256-895-0255 LightOfChristCenter.org

With over 15 years of experience. Specializing in Swedish, Deep Tissue massage, Myotherapy, as well as Repetitive Use Injury Therapy (RITI). Call Today for Appointment.

The Light of Christ Center is comfortably situated in a vintage Centenarian House conveniently located near the UAHuntsville campus. Our Center facilities are available for rent to both members and non-members. We offer our Spiritual Home as your ideal venue for weddings, receptions, memorial services, classes/workshops and other gatherings. Call 256-895-0255 and leave a message if you’re interested in a tour or to speak with someone about your event. Amenities available: • Kitchen (microwave only) • Solarium • Lounge/Salon • Roundtable Room (meeting/dining) • Chapel (w/up to 50 chairs)

CLOUD NINE IN HOME MASSAGES Evening and Weekend Appointments 256-337-6989 Finally, someone who makes housecalls! Swedish, Ortho and Deep Tissue massage in the privacy of your own home. Gift Certificates also available for any occasion.

Some people walk in the rain, others just get wet. ~ Roger Miller 30

Tennessee Valley

Natvalley.com

NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR

REIKI

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE ASSOCIATES

REIKI FREE CLINIC (NO CHARGE)

JACI HOGUE

Dr. Deb Gilliam, N.M.D. 1230 Slaughter Road, Madison, AL 256-722-0555

Shari Feinman-Prior 915-B Merchant Walk Way, SW Huntsville, AL 35801 Shari1717@gmail.com

256-656-4108 jaci@alabamarolfmethod.com AlabamaRolfMethod.com

Dr. Gilliam treats a variety of health problems with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, heart disease, hormone replacement and thyroid issues being at the forefront. Dr. Gilliam sees patients from around the world due to the reputation she has earned by treating hard to treat medical conditions. Dr. Gilliam works to find the cause of medical conditions and does not simply treat the patients’ symptoms.

ORGANIC FOOD AND PRODUCTS MARY ACHATZ Beyond Organic Independent Mission Marketer 256-509-0823 MaryAchatz.MyBeyondOrganic.com Mlac@otelco.net Beyond Organic is a direct selling company offering products that go “beyond organic” within the categories of cleansing and detoxification, toxic-free skin and body care, live snacks and beverages, pure mountain spring water, and nutrient dense beef and dairy products shipped direct from the Beyond Organic farm and facility to your family.

PILATES BODY LANGUAGE, INC. 305 Jefferson St., Ste. C 256-704-5080 sybil@bodylanguagepilates.com BodyLanguagePilates.com Our goal is to teach individuals how to take control of their health and well-being through the Pilates method, Pilates creating a wholesome person of sound mind, body, and spirit. Private, semi-private and group training on the equipment is available along with group mat classes.

REIKI MARY MORALES Universal & Karuna Reiki Master 256-584-8081 KungaLhadon@aol.com Reiki is a simple natural and safe method of healing. Reiki treats the physical body, the emotions, and the mind and spirit, creating many beneficial effects. Many have experienced miraculous results.

Reiki works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.

2-4pm, every Third Saturday of each month. Contact Shari Feinman-Prior at Shari1717@gmail.com for info.

SHAMAN HEALER

A complete system of body education that balances the physical body, improves posture, and helps resolve chronic pain. Created by Dr. Ida P. Rolf in the 1950s, Structural Integration has been scientifically validated and has withstood the test of time, as millions of people have enjoyed the remarkable benefits.

KATY GLENN WILLIS 256-426-0232 KatyShamanHealer.com Spiritually Assisted Intuitive Readings, Energetic Healing and Balancing for People and Pets, World Culture Shamanic Training, Spirit Midwife: Assistance for individual and caregivers during Death & Dying Process. Forty years of training and experience.

WATER, WILLOW & MOON SHAMANIC HEALING Jeffrey Rich 256-337-1699 WaterWillowMoon.com Jeffrey.Rich@gmail.com "Medicine for the Soul," shamanic healing is the sacred technology which can help you achieve wholeness by addressing the spiritual causes of disease.

Empty? Out of sorts? Something "just not right"? "Haven't been the same since ..."?

Explore the techniques of shamanic healing and find answers. Offering Soul Retrieval, Thoughtform Unraveling, Illumination, Space Clearing, Past Life Work and much more.

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION SUSAN K. JEFFREYS Advanced Practitioner Lic.#249 Dr. Ida P. ROLF method 2336A Whitesburg Drive 256-512-2094 RolfGuild.org Serving Huntsville since 1995 “When the body gets working appropriately, then the force of gravity can flow through. Then spontaneously, the body heals itself.” —Ida P. Rolf

TRANSFORMATIONAL PROCESS COACH JASON KENDRICK 303-653-7533 Jason@JasonKendrickBooks.com JasonKendrickBooks.com By positively reinforcing change and holding a space of nonjudgment, Jason Kendrick, The Go-To Guru, helps the Recently Rockbottomed to rebound upward in a self-validating discovery process of remembering and reclaiming their resonant Soul Purpose, which ignites and propels a passion that emancipates Joy. • Usui Reiki Master • Indigo Adult • Intuitive Healer and Counselor • Energy Healer • Energetic Conversation Facilitator • Author and Speaker

WHOLE FOOD NUTRITION JUICE PLUS WELLNESS COACH Nutrition Made Easy Nikki Skidmore 256-527-3822 NikkiSkidmoreJuicePlus.com Simple, whole food nutrition of 25 fruits and vegetables a day helps ensure you get the nutrition your body desperately needs. Juice Plus+ is the best, most affordable way to bridge the gap between what you should and do eat. Kids eat Juice Plus+ free with an adult order. Call Nikki today to find out how.

Sometimes the heart sees what is invisible to the eye. ~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.~

natural awakenings

February 2013

31

Bio-Identical Hormones Save the Day WOMEN DO YOU SUFFER FROM?

MEN DO YOU SUFFER FROM?

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Mood Changes 3

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Irritability 3

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Decreased Sex Drive 3

Decreased Muscle Mass 3

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Depression 3

Bloating 3

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Poor Concentration 3

Night Sweats 3

Sleep Disruption 3

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Aches and Pains 3

Migraines 3

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Are we all destined to experience unpleasant changes in our bodies as we age? It’s a fact that as we age, our hormone levels decline or may become out of balance. Individualized biologically identical hormone replacement therapy can help you restore your magnificence and grace at any stage of life.

To find out if Bio-Identical hormones are right for you contact Progressive Family Medicine for a consultation.

Progressive

Family Medicine

Ask about Thermography to screen for Breast Disease and Cancer with NO radiation.

Alternative Medicine Associates Chad Gilliam M.M.S. PA-C

256.722.0555

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Progress Towards Wellness & Prevention