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contents 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.
18 14 A CONVERSATION WITH 11 globalbriefs
11
QIGONG PRACTITIONER JEFF PRIMACK (PART 2 OF 2) by Guy Spiro
16 wisewords 23 healthbriefs 24 actionalert 28 consciouseating
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33 inspiration
16 BIRTHING A NEW WORLD Jean Houston Explores The Power of the Feminine by Linda Sechrist
18 NATURAL BEAUTY — HEAD TO TOE A Holistic Guide to Looking Your Best by Frances Lefkowitz
22 TOUCHPOINTS REFLEXOLOGY- PRACTICAL TIPS FOR EVERYDAY LIVING
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Reflexology and Allergies, The Golf Ball Technique by Jim Barnes, Certified Reflexologist
ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS 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.
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.
24 BE IN THE KNOW ABOUT GMO’s Untold Risks, Unanswered Questions and Needed Action by Melinda Hemmelgarn
27 ESSENTIALS The Healing Art of Aromatherapy by Linda Hileman BS, CCA
28 FOODS FOR AGELESS BEAUTY Nourishing Skin from Inside and Out by Renée Loux
32 POSTURES BY GATLIANNE
Feel Your Power in Warrior II Pose by Gatlianne
33 MOTHERING THE WORLD by Isha Judd
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publisher’sletter
T
he founder of Natural Awakenings Magazine, Sharon Bruckman, pointed out something that should have been obviously apparent to everyone in the orientation class for New Publishers that Cindy and I attended in Naples, Florida, last August. She said it with a softspoken, dry smiling irony that only revealed the thought in all its glory. Sharon: “And, if any of you ever find that you are struggling, as Publishers…well…” and she started leafing through a copy of Natural Awakenings, angling toward the practitioner directory at the back. “You’ll have all of these people to help you!” And it’s true. For me, personally, this has become the single most unforeseen, and potentially the singlemost valuable, benefit of buying this magazine. Its role as a resource. A practical guide. A compendium of actionable information on health and wellness matters. But what matters most is the direct link to people, skilled, experienced practitioners practicing healing modalities, such as Reflexology, that I was totally unfamiliar with, had never heard the name, or run across even a single mention of it in traditional medical literature over twelve years as a Healthcare writer. That is undoubtedly due to the very real medical bias that still persists against alternative or “complementary” therapies, non-Western modalities, and against any medical treatment approaches that have not been studied in placebo-controlled clinical trials. What I can tell you is that it works. After less than six months of once-weekly Reflexology treatments from my good friend Jim Barnes, my overall energy levels, vitality, mental sharpness, and baseline sense of well-being has dramatically improved. The proof that Reflexology works? Try a series of 3-6 weekly treatments, and you’ll have all the proof that you need. In the Community Resource Guide you can find Jim’s contact information, alongside many other health practitioners specializing in two dozen distinct professional fields. I encourage you to tap into this amazing group of healers, and helpers. They are a rare, critical resource for many of us here in the Tennessee Valley. They, traditionally, as a group, and generally speaking, have been underappreciated, underutilized, and underpaid. We are trying to change that. So take a look at the Community Resource Guide as well as all of our integrative medicine and healing arts advertisers. Ask around. Check references. Get opinions. Google. And try something new, that you haven’t tried before. Reflexology. Reiki. Rolfing. Feng Shui. Footbaths. Massage. Music Therapy. Tapping. Pilates. Yoga. Nutrition Counselling, or a Coach for Small Change. Talk to Chad Gilliam at Progressive Family Medicine in Madison about traditional and alternative approaches to managing obesity, diabetes, thyroid disorders, nutritional deficiencies, and other chronic, or confusing conditions that can often be helped by a fresh medical opinion and the latest in innovative, integrative medicine. Om Sri Dhanvantre Namaha. Salutations to the Celestial Physician, who can guide us to the knowledge, to the treatment, or to the healer who can make us— with our unique, specific individual health challenges—whole, and well. We’re all looking for the right doctor, after all.
contact us Publisher Tom Maples Tom@Natvalley.com Cell: 404-395-9634 New Business Development Advertising Sales Cindy Wilson Cindy@Natvalley.com Cell: 256-476-6537 Design and Production Karen Ormstedt 256-997-9165 Natural Awakenings in the Tennessee Valley 14 Woodland Ave. Trinity, Alabama 35673 Office: 256-340-1122 Fax: 256-217-4274 Natvalley.com
© 2011 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $25 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.
May 2011
5
newsbriefs The New Earth Festival: Huntsville’s Premier Metaphysical Event A Spiritual Community supporting the practice of knowing God in the heart of every person. ONGOING SERVICES AND CLASSES! New Thought Classes
Tuesdays, 6:30-9:00pm Wednesdays,10:00am-12:00pm
Revealing Services Sundays 9:45am
Celebration Services
T
he New Earth Festival is a cornucopia of metaphysical and holistic supplies as well as an excellent outlet to discover new concepts for better living. Vendors at the festival offer hard-to-find books, divination tools, candles, oils, herbs, jewelry, and so much more. Intuitive readers employ their gifts through tarot cards, runes, and palm reading to advise the clairvoyantly curious on important decisions whether it is in regard to the past, present, or future. To complement the vendors and readers, massage therapy, reflexology, reiki, and other health and healing modalities will help rejuvenate the soul. The Aura camera is back, along with the spirit artist who will sketch visitors’ spirit guides or surrounding angels. The festival is also host to free lectures (with paid admission) on a variety of topics. Past topics have included paranormal investigation, clearing techniques, the Law of Attraction, Feng Shui, and developing psychic abilities. For an updated list of lecture topics and Vendors, check out NewEarthFestivals.net a week before the show. The New Earth Festival takes place May 21 and 22, 2011 at the Tom Bevill Center on the UAH campus, located at 550 Sparkman Drive. The cost of admission is $5 per day. See ad on page 24.
Sundays 10:30am
Meditation
Tuesdays & Wednesdays 6:00pm Sundays 8:30am
Satsang
Wednesdays 6:30pm
Rev. David Leonard Transforming Lives and Making the World a Better Place www.cslhuntsville.org
308 Lily Flagg Rd.
883-8596
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Tennessee Valley
Class Starting For Singles at Unity Church on the Mountain
A
re You Ready For Love? A new class based on the book Calling in ‘The One’: 7 Weeks to Attract the Love of Your Life, by Katherine Woodward Thomas, will be held from 6:30-8pm on Wednesdays, May 11-July 6 at Unity Church on the Mountain in Huntsville. Facilitated by Rev. Grace Gifford, this 9-week class is an opportunity to attract the love of your life by becoming the love of your life. If you are having trouble sustaining loving, nurturing and committed relationships, the place to look is at your relationship with yourself. This class asks for a commitment to do the daily practices and attend all of the classes. If you do the work, these processes will change your life. The cost of the class is $10 per session or $70 for the series if paid in full the first evening. To preregister, call Rev. Grace at 256-880-7341 or email BGrace51@ gmail.com. Unity Church on the Mountain is located at 1328 Governors Drive in Huntsville. UnityChurchOnTheMountain.com. 256-536-2271. See ad on page 15.
Energy Saving Ideas from the M. A. Jackson Company
T
he sun is about to get very hot as spring unfurls into summer, so the M. A. Jackson Company is holding their best deals of the year on everything affected by summer heat. Starting with your windows and doors, M. A. Jackson Co. is offering Energy Star tax rebates on replacement windows and doors for your home. Homeowners can head-off rising cooling costs this summer by replacing worn-out standard windows with more energy-efficient insulated windows. New windows pay for themselves and installation costs by saving on heating and cooling bills throughout the year. Receive a free energy audit on how to save up to 40% on heating and cooling costs.
• Pet Compounding Pharmacy • Massage Therapy • Healthy Eating & Weight Loss • Book Center New Releases & Favorites Terry Wingo, RPh
Ginny Isbell, Pharm D
Compounding Pharmacy Compounding creates custom-made compounded medicines for your individual needs.
We're Moving Soon! New address, but still in Providence... 8 Parade Street Huntsville, AL 35806 Serving You For 25 Years.
Seminars and Workshops Madison Drugs often hosts seminars on compelling topics, as well as providing speakers for your group. Call the store for details.
Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Many patients and healthcare professionals are discovering that natural hormones offer safer, healthier answers.
Wellness Counseling We perform intensive one-on-one evaluations covering your health history and current health problems.
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Consider building out your blistering deck, porch, or open yard with energy-efficient TEMO sunrooms and patio covers. Not only will building a sunroom provide a cooler atmosphere in which to enjoy the sun, but it will increase the value of your home while providing a comfortable living area free of insects, dangerous UV sunlight, and sweltering humidity. The TEMO sunroom was featured on the “Extreme Makeover� show in past seasons. The M. A. Jackson Company offers a lifetime transferable warranty on all customized, year-round TEMO sunrooms.
Make your backyard a garden-variety showplace with decorative freestanding arbors, pergolas, and pavilions. Made to provide trellis runs for blooming plants, patio shade on sunny summer days; and built to withstand high storm force winds and tornadoes. Few companies in the North Alabama area offer the energy-saving options of the M. A. Jackson Company. The M. A. Jackson Company has provided quality home improvement services since 1972; with products including bath systems, cabinet restyling, door and window replacement, and a variety of sunroom, screen room and patio options. Many of M. A. Jackson’s products have been featured in area magazines, tradeshows, and shopping malls. Currently, M. A. Jackson Co. is on display with Sam’s Club road shows. Call M. A. Jackson Company today for a FREE estimate at 888-739-0317. Visit the company online at MAJacksonCo.com. Members of BBB and Home Builders Association of Alabama. See ad on page 11.
Relieve Stress and Promote Relaxation—Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help Class Book 1
C
ome learn how to use your fingers and hands to release stress and promote relaxation using Jin Shin Jyutsu. Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help Book 1 will be offered on June 11, 2011. This class will provide you with the knowledge to maintain harmony and balance in your body. The following will be covered in the class: Main Central Vertical (universal source of life) – works on all aspects of the body. Supervisors – supervises energy harmony for left/right sides of the body. Attitudes – keys to harmony with the Universe. • Basic finger exercises
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Tennessee Valley
Make your $25 check payable to: Natural Awakenings 14 Woodland Ave Trinity, AL 35673
*Please remember to include your name and mailing address. Addtional contact info, such as Email address, is encouraged.
Women’s Wellness Heart Of Healing Healing is possible when I can gently and compassionately look inward and honestly examine, explore, question and understand who I am. by Rita Loyd Š 2011
Rita Loyd is a professional watercolor artist and writer. The message of her work is about the healing power of unconditional self-love. Rita began painting in 1996 as a way to cope with chronic illness and depression. Through this journey, the creative process became her teacher, healer and friend who would guide her to find the true meaning and experience of unconditional self-love. Rita writes about this experience and all that she has learned about unconditional self-love in her new book Unconditional Self-Love: What It Is, Why It's important and How to Nurture It in Your Life. You can purchase this book in Huntsville at Ruth's Nutrition, H. Raines Gifts or at www.NurturingArt.com, where you May can view Rita's artwork and new blog.
2011
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• Mudras
(special combinations of finger exercises to release specific energy) General daily flows • To renew energy for all of your body energy function • To release all accumulated tensions of the day from the front of the body • To release all accumulated tensions of the day from the back of the body The class will be held on Saturday, June 11 from 9am-1pm at Jin Shin Jyutsu of Huntsville, 1108 McClung Ave. SE. The cost of the class is $75, which includes $20 for the book and material. Please pre-register by June 5. A $20 deposit is required. Call 256-534-1794 to register. See ad on page 25.
The How of Tao: Deb Paradise Teaches Sum Faht Meditation Classes in Huntsville
O
nce per month, in Huntsville, Deb Paradise offers meditation classes and powerful lessons that change lives. Sum Faht Meditation is an ancient form of meditation that translates into "Spiritual Energies of the Heart." Accessing "Heart's Desires" is precisely what this form of meditation is about. Unique to Sum Faht is its focus on Expression, Movement and Pro-Active Processes. Deb uses an ancient method of teaching by sensing and feeling the needs of her students and addressing their needs during class. She often offers readings, guided movements, couples meditations, energy work and guided meditations. Private sessions address personal issues in a one-on-one setting. In Friday Evening's class, learn how Body Wisdom is the guide to Balance, Relaxation and Expansion. QUIET the mind, RELAX the body and BALANCE life. Access deep energies to allow direct connection with Self and Inner Self. Saturday Mornings focus on personal growth and the awakening process of Creative Power to manifest the life one was meant to live. Deb Paradise has been practicing, teaching and offering private sessions in Self Cultivation in Atlanta, Birmingham and now Huntsville for over 20 years. She holds certifications in Therapeutic Massage, Trager Psychophysical Integration, Cranio Sacral Therapy, Transformational Art Process, Reflexology and Aromatherapy. Call 205-994-5506 for class locations. TheHowofTao.com.
Improve Balance while Increasing Strength and Energy
S
teve Krzyzewski, owner of Healthy Choices LLC has introduced The Bionic Band® from Perfect World Solutions Into his product lineup. Through his Electrodermal Testing, Steve saw how everyone would match for one of the Bionic Bands, and then physically test them to see their strength and balance improve. There is even a band to help promote sleep as well. The Bionic Band® family of products are basically “tuning forks” that are worn on the wrist which send a specific frequency throughout the body to make cells vibrate at the same frequency, known as “sympathetic resonance”. Without sympathetic resonance, the body’s cells will vibrate at the thousands of different frequencies that are being transmitted among the airwaves from cell phones, wireless networks, TV’s, power lines, and many other electrical and electronic sources commonly found in the modern environment. To see more information on the wrist bands, necklaces, anklets and other products Perfect World Solutions Inc has to offer, visit HealthyChoices.MyBionicFamily.com. Contact Steve Krzyzewski via Email at HealthyChoicesLLC@gmail.com or call him at 256-679-1997. See ad on page 13.
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Tennessee Valley
globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
M. A. Jackson Company
Bicycle Economy
May is National Bike Month Bikeway networks are emerging along urban, lowtraffic streets as residents employ increasing pedal power in cities like Cambridge, Massachusetts; New York City; Portland, Oregon; and San Francisco. Tourism and transportation trend watchers note that the amount of on-street bicycle parking provides a ready gauge to how rider-friendly a city is. Still, according to the findings of a National Household Travel Survey that 40 percent of all trips we make are two miles or less, the International Bicycle Fund (IBF) reports that Americans choose a bike over a car for only 11 percent of these trips. In Europe, which favors walkable cities, Amsterdam commuters lead the way by choosing their bikes 28 percent of the time, followed by 20 percent in Denmark, 10 percent in Germany, 8 percent in the United Kingdom and 5 percent in both France and Italy (versus 1 percent by U.S. city commuters). According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, at least a quarter of Americans age 16 and older will likely ride a bicycle sometime this summer. The National Survey of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Attitudes notes that 26 percent of American bicyclists ride for recreation, and 24 percent for health. Additional reasons include getting home (14 percent), errands (14 percent), visiting (10 percent), commuting to school or work (5 percent) and “other.” BikeLeague.org, the official website for Bike-to-Work Week, May 16-20, hosts a searchable database of bike clubs and ride resources.
Smile Factor
Which States Have the Happiest People? A telephone survey conducted from January 1 through December 31, 2010, randomly sampling the views of more than 350,000 U.S. adults, shows that Hawaii ranks in first place in terms of residents’ happiness, earning a rating of 71 on a 100-point scale. Other winners in the Top 10 happiness sweepstakes are Wyoming, North Dakota, Alaska, Colorado, Minnesota, South Dakota, Utah, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Even West Virginia, which ranked last, earned 61.7 points. The survey, conducted by the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, looked at six categories of well-being. These included life evaluation (self-evaluation about one’s present life situation and what is anticipated in five years); emotional health; work environment (such as job satisfaction); physical health; healthy behavior; and basic access to services like health care, a safe place to walk, and community. “When human beings give you an answer on a numerical scale about how satisfied they are with their lives, it is best to pay attention,” comments Andrew Oswald of the University of Warwick, UK, based on his 2008 findings from a similar survey of 1.3 million Americans. “Their answers are reliable.” For the rankings of all 50 states, see tinyurl.com/ 4lre9tk. For the daily national happiness index, see Well-BeingIndex.com.
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MAJacksonCo.com May 2011
11
Farm Aid
Maine Town Passes Landmark Local Food Ordinance
Solving your health puzzle Herbs Vitamins Massage Reflexology Natural Foods Clinical Herbalist Auricular Therapy Magnetic Therapies Nutritional Counseling
Residents of Sedgwick, Maine, have unanimously voted to adopt a Local Food and Self-Governance Ordinance, setting a precedent for other towns looking to preserve small-scale farming and food processing. Sedgwick is the first town in the state, and perhaps the nation, to exempt direct farm sales from state and federal licensing and inspection. The ordinance also exempts foods made in the home kitchen, similar to the Michigan Cottage Food Law passed last year, but without caps on gross sales or restrictions on types of exempt foods. Local farmer Bob St. Peter explains: “This ordinance creates favorable conditions for beginning farmers and cottage-scale food processors to try out new products, and to make the most of each season’s bounty.” St. Peter, who serves on the board of the National Family Farm Coalition (nffc. net), based in Washington, D.C., sees this as a model ordinance for rural economic development. “It’s tough making a go of it in rural America,” he continues. “Rural working people have always had to do a little of this and a little of that to make ends meet. But up until the last couple of generations, we didn’t need a special license or new facility each time we wanted to sell something to our neighbors.” As a result, “Small farmers and producers have been getting squeezed out in the name of food safety, yet it’s the industrial food that is causing food-borne illness, not us.” Read the Local Food and Self-Governance Ordinance at tinyurl.com/46kswcm.
Electro-Dermal Testing
Urban Forest 256-883-4127 7540-P S. Memorial Pkwy. Rosie’s Shopping Ctr. Huntsville, AL Open Monday-Saturday info@ruthsnutrition.com
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Tennessee Valley
Tree Banner Design Contests Sprout in U.S. Cities Banners created by local designers, artists and students are appearing on light posts at high-traffic locations throughout cities participating in the Urban Forest Project. Each banner’s design must be a metaphor for the tree, a symbol of sustainability, and a visual statement about valuing the environment. Originally conceived by Worldstudio to promote going green and bring life to light posts in New York City’s Times Square in 2006, the project has taken root in Albuquerque, Baltimore, Denver, Portland, Oregon, and Toledo, Ohio. New, colorfully eco-conscious tree banners will be sprouting this spring in San Francisco, Tacoma, Washington, and Washington, D.C. “We anticipate the artwork and banners… will act as a visual awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy canopy in not only our city, but throughout the world,” says Adrian M. Fenty, former mayor of the District of Columbia. After they were removed from Times Square, the banners were recycled into one-of-a-kind tote bags, with sales proceeds going to mentoring programs and the creative arts in New York City. Initially, “That was supposed to be the end of the story, except the project apparently had resonance with a lot of people from different communities,” says Andréa Pellegrino of Worldstudio. “We started receiving unsolicited outreach from communities all over the world.” Learn more at ufp-global.com.
American Woman
New Report on Our Social and Economic Well-Being The recently released Women in America report, the first since 1963, compiles a comprehensive baseline picture of how women are faring in the United States today and over time. The idea is that a better understanding of women’s social and economic well-being will help generate ideas to win everyone an improved future. Here’s a selected snapshot of the current findings: Women are marrying later and having fewer children than in the past; an ever-growing number are raising children without a spouse. A greater proportion of both today’s women and men have never married. Women’s gains in educational attainment have outpaced those of men over the past 40 years, including in high school degrees, college and graduate degrees, and continuing education. Following dramatic gains through the mid-1990s, women’s participation in the workforce has remained constant, but they are still less likely than men to work in the paid labor force and more likely to work part-time. Women continue to spend more time than men caring for the household and other family members, as well as volunteering. Women typically still earn less than men, in part because of their concentration in lower-paying and traditionally female occupations. Overall, women are more likely to live in poverty than adult men. Life expectancy has risen for both genders, and women continue to live longer than men. However, women are also less likely to be physically active, more likely to be obese, and disproportionately more likely than men to be affected by mobility impairments, asthma, arthritis and depression. While women generally use the health care system and preventive care more than men, many still do not receive basic recommended preventive care. One out of seven women has no regular source of health care, while the share of both adult women and men without health insurance has increased over time. Primary Sources: Office of Management and Budget; U.S. Department of Commerce
Computerized ElectroDermal Testing Identifying Root Causes and Necessary Support to Reach Your Optimum Health!
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Healthy Choices, LLC STEVE KRZYZEWSKI, CEDSAT 3322 South Memorial Pkwy, Ste. 526 Huntsville, Alabama
healthychoicesLLC@gmail.com
Don’t let anyone tell you that you have to be a certain way. Be
unique. Be what you feel.
~Melissa Etheridge
May 2011
13
A Conversation with Qigong Practitioner
Jeff Primack
(Part 2 of 2)
by Guy Spiro
exercise builds energy, which leads to increased awareness, spiritual growth, less stress, more patience, compassion, etc.
GS JP
Qi — In Western terms, the Chinese word “qi” is often seen as synonymous with “energy flow.” Qigong — Qigong is the art of harnessing qi.
“Qi Revolution” comes to Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center MAY 22-31, 2010. Practitioner Jeff Primack and 100 instructors teach 4-days of Qigong Training for $99. To reserve tickets & for more information, call 1-800298-8970 or visit www.Qigong.com.
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Tennessee Valley
GS
You’ve described Qigong as a special type of exercise that makes people ‘pulse’. At the physical level, Qigong benefits the practitioner both by oxygenating and by increasing blood flow. What lies beyond physical transformation?
JP
The practitioner experiences an exceptional non-physical healing force. It’s a magnetic, palpable energy that can move people spiritually. When this force is vibrating in your abdomen it leads to what I call “sudden enlightenment”. This physiological shift in consciousness is the primary reason I devote my life to teaching Qigong. People acquire certainty about their undying spiritual presence because they feel it vibrating inside them. It is difficult to put the higher spiritual levels of Qigong into words. They must be experienced to be known. At the core of Qigong philosophy, is a belief in a ‘true source’ where all energy in the universe originates. Being ‘at one’ with the source has extraordinary potential. Qigong
Where do you start people out?
Our four day Qi Revolution workshop starts with “Breath Empowerment,” a profound transformational tool, especially in bigger gatherings with a large group energy field. Participants recline on the floor, do special breathing techniques, and flood the body with oxygen and energy. It can feel like a car engine pleasantly humming inside the body. Breath Empowerment is the same technique I used to heal my asthma.
GS
Of course, the more people put into Qigong, the more they get out of it.
JP
Definitely true. Once they experience this practice, people are ready and eager to implement Qigong in their lives. The Qi Revolution workshop also offers detailed, precise foodbased healing knowledge. Food healing is a system of naturopathic medicine known to reverse vital health concerns and is even said to have created improvements for children with autism.
GS
You’ve described the 9-Breath Healing Circle as the ultimate group energy experience. Tell us a bit about it.
JP
The Circle is a highly focused use of prayer and Qigong. It is the ultimate group energy experience. People hold hands while doing the 9-breath Method, a slow, deep, powerful breathing technique that can bring a
full-body vibration within 45 seconds. It feels so good; like a pleasing electric current going through everyone’s legs, arms and hands.
Since love grows within you, so beauty grows.
GS
~Saint Augustine
One thing that stands out for me is the low fee of $99 for these four day workshops. I commend you for making it so affordable.
For love is the beauty of the soul.
JP
The low price is a key element in getting this healing information out to increasing numbers of people. The size of these gatherings and the huge “group energy effect” to Qigong is an essential reason these workshops are so successful. The more who come for a workshop, the stronger the group energy field. Some of our fourday Qi Revolution events draw more than 2000 people. When thousands of people all inhale at the same second in a coordinated and precisely timed effort, it creates an incredible energy.
GS
Any closing tthoughts?
JP
I know life is busy. Everybody has a lot going on. Th These energy exe exercises can increase our personal power and reinforce efforts to take responsibility for our own health. So when we’re in the real world, earning our living and doing our daily tasks, there’ll be vital energy behind what we do and how we live. (Part 1 of this 2 part interview with Jeff Primack appeared in last month’s issue). Astrologer Guy Spiro conducted this interview with Jeff Primack on January 5, 2010. Spiro has for many years interviewed a range of luminaries in the New Age field, from well-known to up-and-coming visionaries. He also is publisher of Chicago’s Monthly Aspectarian magazine dedicated to awakening consciousness. See ad on page 3.
Unity is positive, practical Christianity. We teach the effective, daily application of the principles of Truth taught and exemplified by Jesus Christ. We promote a way of life that leads to health, prosperity, happiness, and peace of mind. Unity has established centers of study and worship throughout the world where people discover and practice the Unity way of life. We address physical, mental, and emotional needs through affirmative prayer and spiritual education. We serve those who seek inspiration and prayer support as well as those who use Unity teachings as their primary path of spiritual growth. We believe that all people are created with sacred worth, and we strive to reach out to all who seek support and spiritual growth. Therefore, we recognize the importance of serving all people in spiritually and emotionally caring ways. Our ministries and outreaches are free of discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age, creed, religion, national origin, ethnicity, physical disability, and sexual orientation. Our sincere desire is to create spiritually aware organizations that are nondiscriminatory and support diversity.
May 2011
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Pasture-Raised Chickens • Locally Raised on Pasture! • Fresh and Natural! • Great Tasting! • No Drugs! Period!
256-751-0987 www.RaisedOnPasture.com
Sold fresh at our family farm. Reservations required. Located off I-65 outside Hartselle in North Alabama
Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it. -Confucius-
wisewords
Birthing a New World Jean Houston Explores the Power of the Feminine by Linda Sechrist
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cholar, author, philosopher and researcher Jean Houston is one of the principal founders of the human potential movement. Her seminar, titled Woman, an Idea Whose Time Has Come: Why Unleashing the Power of the Feminine is Key to Personal Fulfillment & Planetary Transformation, was recently offered via teleconference to thousands of women by Women on the Edge of Evolution, founded by Katherine Woodward Thomas and Claire Zammit.
Why is building momentum in women’s empowerment so vital, and why is it essential that women speak up now? The possible society will become a reality if we each become The Possible Human we are capable of being. To do this in our present planetary culture, where everything is in transition, we need to make the most of the full complement of human resources, wherever and in whomever they are found. We also need to bring forth and orchestrate all the rhythms of human awakening that have ever been realized, in humanity’s search for what can be. As pilgrims and parents in a newly emerging world, we cannot afford old stopgap solutions. We can thrive in these complex times, which require the wisest use of our capacities and a new set of holistic values, if women focus their newfound empowerment in the re-genesis of society. Women’s voices are indispensable if we seek a future that will be different from the past.
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How has your work with the United Nations forwarded progress for women and the world? My work with the United Nations Development Programme and nongovernmental organizations has been guided by the intention of achieving measurable and sustainable change in the domains of peace and development. I’ve trained thousands of people in the Philippines, Nepal, Kenya, Albania and other countries in the new field of social artistry, the art of enhancing human capacities in the midst and light of social complexity. One initiative to strengthen leadership in women and youth, as well as their active participation in decision-making, is in the third year of a five-year program. During behind-the-scenes work to train and empower women in Middle Eastern countries, I’ve observed that within the collapsing economies and infrastructures of the Arabic world, women are especially open to creating strategic change and social action.
How can we determine where to give our energy and attention in order to influence the future and make our greatest contribution? I believe that the rise of women and the re-patterning of human nature in the 21st century may be one of the most im-
portant events in human history. For a new world to be born, we must bring a new mind to bear. Women comprise half of the world’s total population and are critical to this change. Their “mother mind” weaves the linear and circular, subjective and objective, and is empathic and narrative-oriented. Solutions arise from such a mind in a form of unfolding levels of understanding, where the inner world is valued as much as the outer. This mind sees things as systemic, rather than systematic, and in unifying constellations, rather than in disparity. This way of perceiving one wholeness and the networks within is vital to the creation of a whole new planetary society, where women and men are in full partnership in the handling of all affairs. In emphasizing relatedness and ongoing connection, the best solution for all becomes one in which everyone benefits and is provided with a pathway to achieving his or her fullest potential.
hometown. She went on to become the mayor of Burnsville, Minnesota. She didn’t stop there; today she serves as the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. For more information, visit JeanHouston.org. Linda Sechrist is a senior writer and editor for Natural Awakenings.
How might we work together and support each other in this process? Create teaching and learning communities where women can come together to discuss things that matter and develop themselves. It is critical for women to have such a place of deep meeting, deep meaning and deep becoming, where they can grow in body, mind and spirit. As a result of these rich meetings, women move forward to take on projects—whatever seems most important, whether it’s a streetlight needed at a dark corner or creating a social action group.
In your experience, what have you identified as the first action that individual women can take to catalyze progress? Wherever you are, take action now. Start a teaching and learning community. One of my students, a SamoanAmerican woman, started several such communities in her
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Natural Beauty — HEAD TO TOE A Holistic Guide to Looking Your Best by Frances Lefkowitz grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, such as olive oil. As for key foods, helpful antioxidants are found in berries and brightly colored fruits; Tannis especially likes kiwis and raspberries. Seeds and nuts have well-known anti-inflammatory properties, as well as minerals that form the building blocks of healthy skin and hair. Studies in the British Journal of Nutrition and elsewhere indicate that omega-3 oil, from borage, flaxseed, or fatty, saltwater fish like salmon can help hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness. According to research from the University of Brussels, silica—present in cucumbers, rhubarb, bean sprouts and other veggies—seems to play a role in skin hydration, as well as the formation of healthy nails and hair. Because skin, nails and hair all need a range of nutrients to grow, repair, and rejuvenate, Tannis also suggests a good multivitamin supplement. Finally, drinking plenty of water is vital to keeping skin hydrated from the inside out.
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s it true that, You’re only as pretty as you feel? Yes, says Alan Dattner, a New York medical doctor and pioneer in holistic dermatology. “The most important thing that people can do for beauty,” he says, “is to come from peace, joy, appreciation and happiness inside, and let that radiate out on their faces.” Many experts agree: The secret to true beauty is to work from the inside out, as well as the outside in, reducing exposure to toxins of all sorts, including stress, and watching what we put in the body, as well as what we put on it. Here’s how Natural Awakenings’ panel of beauty professionals answered when asked how we can take good care of skin, hair and nails, and look our best, naturally.
SKIN How do I keep my skin resilient, clear and looking youthful? “Lifestyle issues, including stress, have a huge impact on skin,” advises Allison Tannis, a registered holistic nutritionist and author of Feed Your Skin, Starve Your Wrinkles. Before spending money on creams and treatments, look at your eating, sleeping, working, playing and exercising habits. “Stress, whether environmental or internal, increases the body’s production of free radicals, which leads to damage of cells, including skin cells,” Tannis explains. So, anti-stress activities, and just relaxing, boost your appearance. Adequate sleep is also crucial for cellular rejuvenation, which is why signs of sleep deprivation show up in the face immediately, ranging from pimples and puffiness
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to creases and dark, under-eye circles. A healthy skin diet is high in antiinflammatory foods and antioxidants that fight free radicals. Tannis notes that, “Inflammation disorganizes the skin’s complex infrastructure that keeps it tight and strong.” Basically, a diet that’s good for the body is great for the skin, as well, and comprises vegetables, fruits, whole
HAIR Labels on my hair care products show a long list of unpronounceable ingredients. Is it possible to get great hair without dumping all these chemicals on it? It’s smart to be concerned about the ingredients in hair care and skincare products, because they are subject to little official regulation and may include ingredients that are not only ineffective, but harmful to health and damaging to hair and skin. That’s why green living expert Renée
Loux, author of Easy Green Living, makes environmentally friendly choices. “If it’s toxic for the Earth, it’s probably toxic for our bodies, too,� she believes. Complex ingredient lists often make it hard to know what we’re applying. Fortunately, consumer advocates like Loux (ReneeLoux.com) and the Environmental Working Group (ewg. org) have done our homework for us. When choosing products, Loux’s rule of thumb is, “plants over petroleum.� In other words, if the primary ingredients—listed in descending order by percentage in a shampoo, conditioner, gel, serum or mousse—are botanical or plant-derived ingredients, you and the planet are probably safe. Petroleum and petrochemicals—which are commonly used in many hair care products and are derived from a non-renewable resource— don’t break down well into natural components in the environment and may be harmful to human health. Loux also pays special attention to the, last few ingredients listed on the label because this is where innocuous-sounding toxins often hide, perhaps as a fragrance or colorant. In the shampoo category, Loux likes low-sudsing versions, because suds are typically created by syntheticfoaming agents called sulfates (sodium lauryl sulfate is common) that may irritate skin and poison the environment. With hair color, look for a stylist that uses low-ammonia dyes, or buy them yourself in health food stores and natural pharmacies; temporary colorants are
safer than permanent dyes. “The deeper the color, the more important it is to look at the ingredients,� counsels Loux.
FACE With so many products and spa treatments to choose from, I’m confused about what my skin really needs to look its best. What are the basic necessities for a natural skincare routine? Cleansing (morning and night for oily skin, just at bedtime for dry skin) and moisturizing (all skin types) are the basics of daily skincare, according to dermatology physician Jeanette Jacknin, author of Smart Medicine for Your Skin and founder of the J.J.M.D. Botanical Dermatology skincare line. She says that soaps are generally too harsh and drying for facial skin, so use a non-soap cleanser instead, preferably one that is pH balanced. Oily skin will need a toner after washing to control oil secretion, and then a moisturizer, while dry skin can go straight to the moisturizer. “Men’s skin is actually thicker, rougher, and more oily and sweaty than women’s skin,� notes Jacknin. “Also, men have the special challenges of a beard. So, while a man may borrow his wife’s or girlfriend’s lotion, he may also want to find a skincare line made especially for him.� The next two steps in Jacknin’s
natural skincare routine are exfoliation, to remove dead skin cells from the skin surface, and facial masks, which deepclean, nourish and revitalize skin. These steps should be done once or twice a week, depending on skin type and the strength of the exfoliator or mask. Exfoliates come in two forms: abrasives, which physically rub off the dead skin cells; and chemical, which dissolve or peel away the surface skin layer. Natural abrasives include oatmeal and sugar granules, while fruit sugars and fruit acids, from pumpkin, apple or papaya, for example, provide natural chemical peels. Look for products with fruit-derived exfoliates or make your own (Jacknin recommends Skin-CareRecipes-and-Remedies.com). Take advantage of professional exfoliation and facial treatments by estheticians and
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Each day, the average woman uses a dozen products containing 160 chemicals, while men apply about 80 chemicals to their bodies. However, 64 percent of beauty product users say they use at least some “natural� items. ~ Not Just a Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry, by Stacy Malkan spas that use professional product lines with plant-based ingredients. The final step in any skincare routine is sun protection. Wearing essential clothing, including hats, sunglasses and long sleeves, and staying out of
natural, safe, mineral- and plant-based cosmetics is easy, as long as you are realistic. In general, the fewer ingredients used, the safer the product. “Give natural products a bit of time, and don’t be so hard on them,� she suggests. Her natural eyeliner requires reapplying a few times a day, she says. “But I’m willing to do that for my health.� Her tips for making the transition: 1) Switch slowly; don’t dump all your old favorites all at once; 2) Go natural on the products you use every day, such as concealer and lipstick, which gets absorbed directly into the bloodstream when you eat or lick your lips; 3) Change your expectations, as natural makeup is not as long-lasting, inexpensive or easy-to-find as the more common, but toxic, stuff. The good news is when it comes time to remove it, all you need is raw coconut or sweet almond oil and a cotton ball. “Natural makeup just slides right off,� says Blades.
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the midday sun are dermatologist Dattner’s first choices for protecting skin from rays that can age and damage it. When in the sun, wear a mineral-based sun block such as zinc oxide, which stays on top of the skin, rather than getting absorbed, and forms a physical barrier to both UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays. Also, watch out for nano-minerals; these have been broken into particles small enough to be absorbed by the skin during the manufacturing process, with possibly harmful results, according to Dattner, Loux and other experts. Unfortunately, the U.S. government does not require that nano-minerals be listed on labels, so consumers must do their own research. What about makeup? As Loux points out, the skin absorbs 60 percent of what goes on it, and many cosmetics are full of unregulated, untested petrochemicals. Does that mean you shouldn’t wear any makeup? Not at all. Makeup artist Jessa Blades, of Blades Natural Beauty (BladesNatural Beauty.com), says that switching over to
HANDS The smell at the nail salon is noxious; should I be worried about what’s going onto my fingernails? “If your eyes are watering, your nose is twitching and your lungs are seizing up, you should listen to your body,� says
Naturally safe alternatives to commercial chemical deodorants may be made with lavender, cypress or geranium essential oils, beeswax, baking soda or rock crystal salts. ~ ehow.com
Getting a good night’s rest is not only healthful, it induces others who see our well-rested faces to perceive us as more healthy and attractive than those who are sleep-deprived, according to research by the Karolinska Institutet, in Sweden. The study is the first to demonstrate that the objective of getting our “beauty sleep” is the right thing to do. ~ British Medical Journal
Loux. It is hard to get colors—especially bright, deep, rich, shimmering ones— to stick to nails; consequently, of all cosmetics, nail polishes tend to contain the most toxins. “Nail polish is one of the tougher products to find for someone who’s looking to go natural,” says Loux. But she points out that some brands are eliminating toluene, a petroleumbased solvent that the Environmental Protection Agency has linked to mild to severe problems with respiratory and nervous systems as well as kidney and liver functions. These less toxic
polishes require more benign removers than conventional noxious-smelling acetones. Always apply them outside or near an open window. Even better, achieve a smooth, clear shine without any polish using a nail buffer. It’s a quick, inexpensive way for men and women to sustain a natural, finished look.
FEET What can I do to get my winter-weary feet ready for sandals? In a word, exfoliate. Rub away calluses and thickened, cracked skin with an emery board, and then relax while soaking feet in Epsom salts to soften skin, and rub gently with a luffa or pumice stone. Foot scrubs containing salt or sugar granules invigorate and increase circulation, especially if they include peppermint, rosemary or tea tree oil within a moisturizing Shea butter or organic foot oil. Exfoliating creams, similar to facial exfoliates, but stronger, also help peel away withered winter skin. Always be sure to apply a moisturizer to protect the newly exposed skin. Remember to soften elbows and knees, too. Frances Lefkowitz’s new book, To Have Not, was named one of five Best Memoirs of 2010 by SheKnows.com. Connect at FrancesLefkowitz.net.
WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR Avoid Unpronounceable Toxic Ingredients
T
he Environmental Working Group is a great resource for evaluating ingredients in beauty products and translating the gobbledygook into plain English. Check out the researchers’ latest findings at CosmeticsDatabase.com. To start, steer clear of these ingredients, identified as most toxic:
Parabens or any ingredient that ends with this word – affects hormones
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) – toxic contaminant
Sodium lauryl, or laureth, sulfate – contaminant that may cause skin damage
Triclosan and triclocarban antibacterials – present potential thyroid concerns
Triethanolamine (TEA) – contaminant that may trigger allergies
Dimethylol Dimethyl (DMDM) hydantoin and Imidazolidinyl urea – preservatives that release formaldehyde
Fragrance and dyes – may cause allergies or cancer and affect the nervous system
Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone – preservatives that may cause allergies and affect the nervous system
May 2011
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Touchpoints Reflexology - Practical Tips for Everyday Living
by Jim Barnes, Certified Reflexologist
Ref lexology & Allergies The Golf Ball Technique
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uffer from allergies? Here’s a practical tip that works. Instead of reaching for that allergy pain reliever, reach for a golf ball. A golf ball, you ask? How could a golf ball help my sinus pain? Reflexology can be very effective for allergies. There are many nerve endings in the hands that correspond to the head and sinus reflexes but many are difficult to stimulate with traditional acupressure methods. Renowned reflexologists Barbara and Kevin Kunz discovered great results by using a golf ball to reach those reflexes. The stimulus of pressure applied to the hands interrupts the body's stress mechanism. Interruption on a regular basis, practiced as an exercise, causes a conditioning effect that can be measured over time to determine if the pressure stimulus is worthwhile. Results in reflexology are achieved by applying an exercise-type program of pressure technique to specific parts of the hands or feet. Traditionally, the stimulus of pressure is applied to the adrenal reflex area to create a healthful response by the body to allergies, asthma, and sinus problems. This area is found on the palms of both hands, halfway down the long first metacarpal bone of the hand below the thumb. To find the area, rest your right thumb on top of the left thumb with your right index fingertip resting in the ball of the thumb. Using your right thumb for leverage, press your index finger into the ball of your left thumb. If you are suffering from sinus pain, this reflex will be very sensitive so press until you find the tender spot. Now, rest your fingertip on the palm of the hand and press. Now that you have a target area, try a pressure technique. Position your fingertip on the sensitive area and press eight to ten times. Repeat with the other hand. The simplest pressure technique involves the use of a golf ball. Hold a golf ball in your hand. Clasp your two
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hands together, interlinking fingers. Roll the golf ball all over your palms and below the thumb. Target the general area of the adrenal reflex area (that tender spot). How long should this exercise last? There are several strategies. Try a pattern of using the golf ball technique for 15 to 30 seconds and resting for 15 to 30 seconds, alternating work and rest throughout a five-minute period. Try this four times throughout the day, such as at morning, noon, dinnertime, and bedtime. After two weeks, evaluate your results. The golf ball stimulating all the nerve endings can also be very beneficial to Arthritis and Fibromyalgia sufferers. As you continue using the technique, your strategy may change. You may find yourself reaching for your golf ball at the onset of the sniffles or other symptoms. And then, you may find yourself continuing the exercise until you lessen the symptoms to your satisfaction. Be Careful: This is the application of a hard surface, the golf ball, to a soft surface, the hand. It is possible to apply too much pressure or to apply pressure for too long a time. You’ve done too much exercise if your hand feels bruised or sensitive to touch. Quit the exercise until the sensitivity passes. When you apply the technique again, limit your time to maintain your comfort level. The golf ball technique is a self-help technique rather than a technique for use on others. This technique is not for everyone. A key to reflexology use is its application in a conscientious program. Are you willing to spend time doing this? Think of this as you would any exercise. Just as a certain number of sit-ups are needed to influence one's waistline, a certain amount of reflexology technique application is needed to get results. Give it a try! You may find it worth your time. Jim Barnes is a Certified Reflexologist with a fast-growing practice in Decatur, Alabama. Contact Jim at Reflex Action for more information and appointment scheduling. Reflex Action Reflexology and Massage Therapy: Main Office 256-309-0033, Cell phone 256-227-2920. See CRG on page 39.
healthbriefs Breast Thermogram versus Mammogram
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thermogram is a painless imaging technique used to detect breast cancer, and which is read by a radiologist. There is no radiation involved with a thermogram. The thermogram detects small heat changes that point to areas of inflammation in the breast. The benefit of obtaining a thermogram is that it can show evolving pathology through heat before a tumor has a chance to form. A tumor may have been growing up to five years before a mammogram would pick it up, although for optimal detection of early breast cancer, a manual breast exam, thermogram, and mammogram are all recommended together. Deciding whether to get a thermogram, mammogram, or both is a discussion you should have with your practitioner. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, smoke, and drink alcohol, you would want a mammogram yearly along with a thermogram and manual breast exam. However, if you do not have a family history of breast cancer and have had several negative mammograms in past, you may want to get a thermogram and manual exam yearly, with a mammogram every three years. If the thermogram shows evolving pathology as read by the radiologist you will need further testing with a mammogram. Obviously the most efficacious way to find anything is to look for that item from different angles. When it comes to breast cancer, those angles are a manual breast exam, thermogram, and mammogram. Studies have shown that trained hands can find over 60% of tumors that end up being cancer. When you add a mammogram, the ability to find cancer increases to over 80%. Adding a thermogram further increases the probability to a 95% chance that the cancer will be detected early, if it exists in your body. Chad Gilliam, M.M.S., PA-C, practices at Progressive Family Medicine, which provides both thermogram and mammogram diagnostic screening in their state-of-the-art facilities staffed by
a skilled and supportive professional medical staff. To schedule a consultation, call 256-722-0555. The clinic is conveniently located central to the Tennessee Valley at 1230 Slaughter Road, Suite C, in Madison.
Bio-Identical Hormones
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verybody seems to be talking about these new natural hormones. Bioidentical hormones have actually been around for decades. With the use of compounding pharmacies, practitioners can customize hormone dosing to an individual patient’s needs. Bio-identical hormones are exactly the same in molecular structure as the hormones already present in our bodies. The hormones are derived from soybeans and yams and are placed in a cream. Depending on the patient’s menopausal status, the hormones are administered day 1-25 of the month or day 5-25 of
the patient’s cycle. Progressive Family Medicine also offers pellet implantation for those patients who do not wish to apply a cream daily. Symptoms such as hot flashes, brain fog, vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, night sweat, insomnia, and low energy are greatly improved or eliminated. Other benefits include accelerated fat burning, protection against fibrocystic breasts, guarding against osteoporosis, decreased PMS symptoms, and reduction in the risk of heart disease. Patients with suspected fibromyalgia also have been able to reduce and/or eliminate medication and become pain free, in some cases. In order to determine the proper dose of hormones, the clinic will perform a saliva hormone test (generally covered by insurance) to measure estradiol, estriol, testosterone, progesterone, cortisol, and DHEA levels, to ensure the appropriate regimen for you. Progressive Family Medicine provides customized bio-identical hormone-treatment regimens with individually calibrated dosing synchronized to your exact, precise needs. To schedule a consultation, call 256-722-0555.
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actionalert
BE IN THE KNOW ABOUT
GMOs Untold Risks, Unanswered Questions and Needed Action by Melinda Hemmelgarn
A
nyone walking into a typical American supermarket finds a dizzying display of more than 40,000 products, the majority of which are processed foods. According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, at least 75 percent of the processed foods contain one or more genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, most likely from corn, soy and canola. With the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s recent approval of GMO alfalfa and sugar beets, non-GMO choices will
grow even narrower. What is a healthconscious consumer to do?
Heads Up What many people don’t realize is that the majority of GMO crops have been genetically engineered to withstand spraying with herbicides, such as Monsanto’s Roundup. Its active toxic ingredient, glyphosate, is systemically transported throughout the plant and into our environment and food chain. According to the American
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Academy of Environmental Medicine, “There is more than a casual association between GMO foods and adverse health effects.” Scientists familiar with the technology warn about the risk for new allergens, toxins and unpredictable, hard-to-detect side effects. Even the President’s Cancer Panel Report advises against choosing foods grown with pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers. Most Americans are shocked to learn that for decades now, they’ve been blindly purchasing and feeding their families GE foods, not to mention toxic herbicide residues. Unlike other developed countries, the U.S. government does not require labels on GMO foods, leaving citizens to shop—and eat—in the dark.
Dangerous Developments Thanks to lobbying by the biotechnology industry, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has taken the stand that GMOs are “substantially equivalent” to their non-genetically modified counterparts. Therefore, labeling a GMO food product would be admitting that the GE products are somehow different. However, genetically modified crops are different. Don Huber, Ph.D., a plant pathologist and professor emeritus at Purdue University, says that when
scientists insert genetic material from one organism into another that would not normally crossbreed or be possible with standard breeding programs, they disrupt an entire system. For example, both Huber and Warren Porter, Ph.D., a biologist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, explain that glyphosate disrupts the soil’s complex microbiological system, critical for delivering micronutrients to plants. This both increases the plants’ susceptibility to diseases and reduces the nutritional quality of food crops. Farmers were told that GMO technology could simplify weed control and increase yields. Yet, according to The Organic Center, since the introduction of GE crops, nationwide pesticide use has increased substantially, by a total of more than 300 million pounds. The Union of Concerned Scientists reports that claims for higher yields have fallen short, as well. Now, new superweeds have developed resistance to glyphosate, and the biotech giants have responded by promoting new GE plants, resistant to stronger herbicides such as 2,4-D. The Pesticide Action Network of North America continues to collect research that links this suspected endocrine disruptor to thyroid problems, prostate cancer, reproductive abnormalities, Parkinson’s disease and delays in brain development. Both Porter and Chuck Benbrook, chief scientist at The Organic Center, warn that, as confirmed in multiple studies, pregnant women and children are most susceptible to harm. Making matters worse, the Organic Seed Alliance reports that there is, “unwanted spread of GE pollen and seed into organic agricultural systems,” and the genetic contamination of non-GMO crops. Roundup Ready alfalfa grieves Chris Blanchard the most. Blanchard, an organic farmer in Decorah, Iowa, explains: “Alfalfa is pollinated by bees, which can travel for miles, so we can be certain that seed stocks will be contaminated, threatening the livelihoods of organic farmers.”
What We Can Do It’s up to informed consumers to increase demand for nonGMO and organic foods. Here’s an effective action plan to protect our health and save Planet Earth. Q Read ingredient labels and vote with your food dollars. Reject products likely to contain GMOs, such as dextrose, corn starch, corn syrup or corn sugar, soy lecithin, canola and cottonseed oils, and sugar from sugar beets. Q Choose certified organic foods. They are our single best bet for avoiding GMO ingredients, synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, antibiotics and hormones. Q Call or write President Obama, your state representatives and food manufacturers. Voice opposition to GMO crops and demand GMO-food labeling. Q Grow some food using organic seeds. Q Stay informed and don’t be duped. Here are some helpful resources:
Center for Food Safety, CenterForFoodSafety.org Radio interviews with Warren Porter (2/18/10) and Don Huber (4/21/11) on kopn.org, tinyurl.com/yjhurre The Organic Center, Organic-Center.org American Academy of Environmental Medicine’s Genetically Modified Food Position Paper, aaemonline.org/gmopost.html Melinda Hemmelgarn is a registered dietitian and awardwinning writer and radio host based in Columbia, MO. Reach her at FoodSleuth@gmail.com and tune in to Food Sleuth Radio at kopn.org.
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essentials
The Healing Art of Aromatherapy By Linda Hileman BS, CCA
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hat comes to mind when you hear the word aromatherapy? Among professional Aromatherapists, there are three schools of thought. The German school emphasizes inhalation, which puts oil molecules directly into the blood stream through the alveoli of the lungs, as well as directly to the brain via the olfactory nerves. The English school emphasizes massage using 2% to 5% essential oil diluted in a neutral carrier oil, where the skin is the primary organ of absorption. The French school emphasizes taking essential oils orally, but utilizes all methods of administration including undiluted topical use. With such a wide variety of products, procedures, and viewpoints coming under the heading aromatherapy, it is no wonder there is confusion. As a Certified Clinical Aromatherapist, I am committed to helping my readers understand the spiritual and physiological properties of essential oils and how to use them safely and confidently to balance mind, body, and spirit. The information imparted here is predicated upon using only the highest
quality essential oils of plant species that have undergone substantial research. Essential oils with therapeutic value come from organic sources of verified species. The plant material is harvested at exactly the right time, distilled without chemical solvents at minimum temperatures and pressures, and bottled straight from the still with no alterations or adulterations. Additionally, each batch of oil should be tested for its phytochemical profile and meet the French standard for percentages of major constituents. However, this testing is not sufficient to ascertain the levels of subtle energy necessary to provide healing benefits, and therefore, synthetic adulteration often goes undetected. Oils that have been standardized, adulterated, or extended with synthetic compounds present hazards and are not suitable for health and healing. Many companies selling essential oils label their products as “pure,” “therapeutic,” and so on. What the buyer must be aware of is that labeling for essential oils is not currently regulated, or even legally defined, in the United States. There are no government standards for therapeutic grade essential oils in North America.
The important thing is to find a trusted source for your essential oils and stick with it. Some of the most impressive benefits derived from true essential oils are oxygenation, antioxidant activity, antimicrobial action, and vibrational frequency, all of which have been verified scientifically. Essential oils aid in cellular detoxification. Their lipid soluble molecules are of a size and shape that easily penetrate the skin and cell walls. Once inside the cell, the oxygen content of essential oils helps push toxins out of the cells and pull potassium and nutrients back into the cells. Essential oils also deliver negative ions, ozone, and classes of molecules that are hostile to microbes and make it difficult for them to survive. Each essential oil has its own unique vibrational frequency that ranges from 53 to 320 Hz. These coherent harmonic frequencies are compatible with the human body’s energy field and work to bring the body into harmonic resonance. This is extremely valuable in an age where electrical appliances and gadgets are always around us, fracturing our human electrical fields with their incoherent chaotic AC frequencies. If you are new to using essential oils it is important to adopt the attitude that “less is more.” I suggest you start slowly and choose mild oils, such as lavender or frankincense, which are both widely known to have universal healing qualities. Diffuse the oil or gently inhale it from your hands, in through the nose and out through the mouth, a few times per day. Notice the subtle shift that takes place. You can also use these particular oils topically. Dilute the essential oil 50/50 in a high-quality, cold-pressed vegetable oil. Massage a few drops into the sole of each foot several times per day. The feet are the safest place on the body to use essential oils topically, and also one of the most effective because the soles of the feet are mirror images of the internal workings of the body. Applying after a bath or shower is preferable, as the skin will be warm and soft and more receptive to receiving the oil. Linda Hileman BS, CCA is a Certified Clinical Aromatherapist. For more information or to make an appointment, call 256-325-4444 or email EssentialOptions@aol.com.
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consciouseating
Foods for Ageless Beauty Nourishing Skin from Inside and Out Using naturally effective skincare products and eating foods that fortify and foster healthy cells works to renew, repair and rejuvenate skin for lasting beauty.
by Renée Loux
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any authorities have good reason to champion the fact that food nutrients such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and omega oils are now showing up in personal care products. According to studies published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Food and Chemical Toxicology and Environmental Health Perspectives, skin can absorb up to 60 percent of what we apply to it. So, feeding skin high-quality ingredients may be as critical as the food we eat. It’s common knowledge that drinking a sufficient amount of pure water is essential for overall health and radiant skin. Here is a look at how other recommended foods contribute to ageless beauty.
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Avocados: Avocados are abundant in skinbeautifying goodies: omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed; antioxidant vitamins A and E; fortifying B-complex vitamins; lecithin, to protect and strengthen cell walls; and potassium, to support new cell growth. They also host a portfolio of antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds—including phytosterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, zinc and folate—that fight free radicals and repair, soothe and renew skin and tissue on a cellular level. Blueberries: The Tufts University Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging reports that blueberries contain some of the highest antioxidant levels of any food, especially when fully ripe, and teem with skin-healing, antiinflammatory properties. The deep, purple-blue color of these morsels is a reflection of the pigment-rich antioxidant phytonutrients, called anthocynanins, shown to improve the integrity of collagen in skin and inhibit photoaging (sun damage), according to a study in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology. Chocolate: Chocolate offers a wealth of antioxidant catechins (like those found in green tea), and according to the National Academy of Sciences and the European Journal of Nutrition, works to improve hydration, skin density and circulation of blood to skin tissues, for a more youthful, glowing complexion. Scientific American and the Journal of Investigative Dermatology report that
chocolate is also a supreme source of procyanidins, which counter skin damage and help protect it while stimulating cellular growth and renewal. Dark chocolate offers the most beautifying benefits per bite, so look for 65 percent or higher cocoa content, and keep the portions small to mindfully manage calorie and fat intake. Cruciferous Vegetables: The crucifer familyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; including cabbage, broccoli, kale and radishesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; is loaded with skin-beautifying compounds. According to studies by the National Academy of Sciences, its sulfur-containing phytonutrients boost the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural detoxification enzymes to combat and repair damage to skin. Low in calories, these mineral-dense and antioxidant-rich veggies are packed with carotenoid antioxidants, which help neutralize carcinogens and oxidative stress on skin, reduce inflammation and bolster immune response. They also contain isothiacyanates, which research published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows, specifically guard against breast cancer. Dark Leafy Greens: Dark leafy vegetables, such as collard greens, parsley, spinach and Swiss chard, offer more nutrients with fewer calories than any other food. Like cruciferous veggies, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re packed with carotenoid antioxidants. Green veggies are also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which the body needs to produce and regulate the sebum in our skin and hair follicles for healthy, well-conditioned skin and a supple complexion.
polyphenols, including a specific catechin believed to inhibit cancer and also beautify the skin. Macro-algae: Oceangrowing seaweed (macroalgae) contains more minerals and trace minerals than any other food, according to research published by Food Chemistryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;10 to 20 times more than many land vegetables. Long prized for their beautifying effects on skin and hair, sea vegetables are an abundant source of antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, as well as B-complex vitamins, including B12, for glowing skin; plus they have the unique ergosterol, which converts into vitamin D2 in the body to support healthy skin cell metabolism and growth. Look for sea veggies arame, dulse, hijiki, nori and wakame for a concentrated source of age-defying nutrition. Omega Oils: Healthy oils, including omega fatty acids, grow and nourish healthy, glowing skin, strong nails and lustrous hair. They act as a conditioner for skin, maintaining and supporting healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed. Uncooked oils offer many beautifying benefits; because many nutrients are damaged and destroyed by heatâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the
fresher and less refined the oil, the better. Foods rich in omegas include flax seed and oil; olives and olive oil; pumpkin seed and oil; walnuts; and winter squash.
...So, eat up! RenĂŠe Loux is a celebrated green expert, organic chef, restaurateur and media personality and the co-founder of Andalou Naturals. She has authored four books, including Easy Green Living and The Balanced Plate. Visit ReneeLoux.com.
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Green Tea: Green tea is infused with a potent portfolio of age-defying antioxidants. Because green tea is minimally processed, of all the teas, it offers the most antioxidant
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Recipes for Ageless Beauty by Renée Loux Beautify your body and skin from the inside out with these recipes that pair age-defying nutrients and nourishing ingredients with incredible taste and texture.
Chocolate-Avocado Parfait with Blueberries & Mint Chocolate and avocado may sound like an unusual couple, but when these antioxidant- and omega-rich champions get together, the results are scrumptious. Yields: 4-8 servings
YOUR FARMERS MARKET ON WHEELS
Grow Alabama works strictly with farmers who provide quality, variety, and the best produce harvested for optimal flavor and nutritional value. Every week, a beautiful seasonal array of these farm-fresh fruits and vegetables delivered right to your door within 24-48 hours of harvest. We also offer weekly customization of your delivery, along with an online gourmet grocery store full of additional add-on fruits, vegetables, and farm-fresh eggs to complete your weekly order. Join today! Choose the best plan for your family or budget and register online at growalabama.com or call us at 205.991.0042. info@growalabama.com • 991-0042
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2 cups diced avocado ½ cup plus 2 Tbsp maple syrup 2-4 Tbsp organic evaporated cane juice or sugar (optional) 2 Tbsp coconut oil (optional; look for a mild aroma) 1-2 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (aged is best) ½ tsp shoyu (organic soy sauce) 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 pint blueberries Handful of fresh mint leaves 1. In a food processor, blend avocado, maple syrup, organic sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, balsamic and shoyu until smooth and creamy. 2. Sift the cocoa powder to remove lumps, using a simple metal strainer. Add cocoa powder to the avocado mixture and blend until very smooth. If time allows, let the mixture rest, covered in the fridge for an hour, for flavors to marry and develop. 3. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature. Place a few blueberries in the bottom of a wine, parfait or martini glass. Top with a generous dollop of chocolate-avocado mixture and garnish with more blueberries and chopped mint.
Green Tea Chai Frappé Green tea and chai spices blend together for a delicious boost of antioxidants and liquid nourishment. Fresh almond milk is easy to make, calcium-rich and highly digestible; just blend soaked almonds with water and strain. In a pinch, raw almond butter may be used. Blend with ice to make a frozen frappé or warm gently on a cool, crisp day. Yields: 2-4 servings 2 green tea bags 2 cups hot filtered water 1 cup raw almonds, soaked eight hours in filtered water, drained and rinsed -or3 Tbsp raw almond butter 2 cups filtered water 1-1½ Tbsp chopped ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground nutmeg Pinch of ground cloves Pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 2 Tbsp maple syrup to taste 2 Tbsp agave nectar or raw honey to taste Beforehand: If using raw almonds, soak them for eight hours in filtered water, drain and rinse.
1 Tbsp flax oil or additional olive oil 1 Tbsp umeboshi plum vinegar or lemon juice 2 tsp shoyu 1 tsp agave nectar or maple syrup (optional) 2-3 green onions, chopped (optional) 1-2 cloves garlic, pressed (optional) 2-3 tsp ginger, finely grated (optional) Sea salt to taste 1½ cups or more of chopped basil or parsley Pinch of fresh oregano, thyme or marjoram (optional) 1. Wash the greens and remove any tough stems. 2. Chop finely and toss with olive oil, flax oil, umeboshi plum vinegar and/or lemon, shoyu, agave or maple, green onion, garlic and ginger. 3. Use freshly cleaned hands to massage with love, paying attention to tougher parts. 4. Allow to stand and marinate, rubbing now and again for an hour or two. 5. Toss in herbs and allow to stand 10 minutes to absorb flavors; stores well for a day or two. Recipes are courtesy of Renée Loux. For more recipes, visit ReneeLoux.com.
1. Steep green tea bags in hot water for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove and squeeze to extract as much liquid as possible. Cool tea in the fridge or freezer (or drop in an ice cube to speed the cooling process), unless served warm. 2. In a blender, add cooled tea, drained almonds or almond butter, ginger, spices, maple, and agave or honey and blend all until super-smooth. Start with less sweeteners and add more to taste. 3. Pour through a strainer or sieve to separate pulp. Press with the back of a large spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. 4. Return to blender and blend with ice for a frosty frappé, or warm over low heat to warm the spirit.
Massaged Greens Leafy greens respond well to a good rubbing with oil, with a pinch of salt and seasoning. Fresh herbs always taste great. Keep it simple or add green onion, garlic and ginger for a tasty variation. Yields: 2-4 servings 6 cups chopped greens: any type of kale, spinach, chard or mixture 2 Tbsp olive oil
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By Gatlianne
Feel Your Power in Warrior II Pose
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e are all warriors – warriors of spirit. We rise and we fall and we pick ourselves up and rise again, forging on along our path. We each have the power to overcome whatever obstacles come at us in this life. The yoga posture Warrior II helps us settle into and feel that power. It is a pose that strengthens the legs and opens the hips and chest. It improves circulation and balance and develops concentration. Warrior II energizes the body with the power we all have stored within us. It also lets us overcome more than worldly obstacles, helping us to move beyond our prideful ego to reach for the true source of our power: our highest Self. To physically feel the power that resides in you always, move into Warrior II posture. With arms uplifted and feet wide apart, turn out one foot and bend that knee to a 90-degree angle, taking precaution that the knee does not come over the toes and cause stress on the joints. The back foot grounds you into the mat; the back leg lengthens. Bring the arms down to a horizontal plane, reaching through the arms and through the fingertips. Turn the head and let your gaze fall into the space beyond the fingertips. Let your breath come evenly and fully, inhaling all the way into the stomach and allowing the lungs, as well as the abdomen, to expand. Settle into your hips, grounded, strong of arm, strong of leg, chest wide with an open heart, focused; a Warrior in your body, a Warrior in your spirit. Then, repeat the pose on the opposite side. Be the Warrior that you are and find gratitude in your strength and courage, in your ability to get through what life throws and keep standing in the ability to get back up after being knocked down. Find gratitude in your power to accept what comes, to counter any blows and maneuver any attack. See the truth in the old adage, “That which does not kill us, only makes us stronger.” You
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have the endurance to continue no matter what. Life is a journey on the way to what is next and it is often a journey of twists and turns, sunshine, then rain, bumps in the road, then smooth sailing. But that is rather the point. Life IS a journey, and how we live the journey is up to us. We can fall down and stay down, or we can rise after falling, gather our strength, and continue the journey as the Warriors we are.
—PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEWIS METTS.
Gatlianne is an author and Yoga & Reiki practitioner based in Athens, AL. For more information or to schedule a private yoga or Reiki session, please contact her at M@Gatlianne.com or visit Gatlianne.com.
inspiration
coverartist
MOTHERING THE WORLD by Isha Judd
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or most of us, our mother is the earliest and most significant influence in life. She is likely our first encounter with unconditional love. The service and selfless giving that mothering universally represents are qualities that we all must learn to emulate on our journey to self-realization. In order to love unconditionally, I have learned that I must first learn to love and accept myself exactly as I am. How can I embrace others in their perfection if I cannot first see my own? If in judging myself, I reject certain aspects, unconditional love towards others can never be anything more than a hollow façade. Similarly, in order to mother the world, I must first learn to mother myself—to find the beauty and perfection of my own individuality and rejoice in my own unique way of being. Then naturally, acceptance and love of others will overflow to my friends and family and ultimately, to my community and the world. When we cultivate true love of self, the love that is present within radiates out to all beings, all peoples, and to Mother Earth herself. Many talk about what we should do—respect basic human rights, care for the environment and so on. Yet, if we must remind ourselves to do these things and so impose them upon ourselves, then the desire to care and serve is not arising naturally and spontaneously; then we are not dwelling in a healthy place where our innate capacity to give and support all life grows and thrives naturally. Ultimately, our own inner healing will cause these qualities to flourish; not because
we are trying to behave responsibly, but because out of an open heart, we are joyfully taking responsibility for nurturing and protecting life. Unconditional mothering is motherhood without fear or fear-based control. It is neither lax nor careless, nor based on pleasing or fear of losing the favor of a child. Real mother love knows how to set limits, establish boundaries, confront unsatisfactory situations and guide a child’s development with a steady, firm hand. Inwardly, such a large love is surrendered, trusting that things will unfold as they should and free of the ego-based fear of making a mistake, and so it is neither overprotective nor overbearing. An individual focused on unconditional love is giving the greatest contribution of all to the evolution of our planet. Our gift to humanity comes through our own inner growth and advancement, a mothering of our self that births our own greatness, even as it brings out the greatness in others. As you cultivate an unconditional relationship with yourself, you will find the unconditional love you seek to express for your children, parents, friends and colleagues. You will become a universal mother: a mother of the world. Isha Judd is an internationally renowned spiritual teacher. Her book and movie, Why Walk When You Can Fly? (WhyWalkWhen YouCanFly.com) explains her system for self-love and the expansion of consciousness.
Magenta Flower by John Nolan Working in an exuberant style that combines bold outlines with bright, exotic hues, John Nolan’s interpretation of various motifs—flowers, people, birds, fish, abstracts and landscapes—intends to transmit a positive, upbeat vibe to his viewers. The celebration of color and form captivated him at an early age and was nurtured through the encouragement and instruction received from his artist father. “My parents told me I could draw and paint before I could walk or talk,” he quips. The Dublin-born artist’s distinctive style is instantly recognizable and contagiously energetic. “My wish is to bring happiness to as many people as possible in the world through my paintings,” he explains. Nolan prefers to work in acrylics because they are versatile, dry quickly and suit his method of painting. “Art is a visual language, an important means of communication, and I create each piece as a unique experience,” he enthuses. “Art is everywhere, all around us—all we need to do is open our eyes. Art is for everyone.”
View the artist’s portfolio at NolanArt. com.
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COMING IN JUNE
calendar FRIDAY, APRIL 29 thru FRIDAY, MAY 20 Relay for Life –The annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life is about raising money to fund research to find a cure for cancer. Plan to join your local communities in some fun, food, music and activities for the whole family. Find a team, or form one, from local businesses, clubs, families, friends, hospitals, churches, schools and service organizations. During the event, team members take turns walking on the track and camping out overnight. Each participant is encouraged to raise at least $100 for the American Cancer Society. Relay For Life 2011 Events in North Alabama: Decatur, May 6 Ingall’s Harbor Huntsville, May 6 John Hurt Park Cullman, May 6 Heritage Park
NEXT MONTH
MEN’S WELLNESS Our doctors’ advice? Eat, drink, be merry, and get moving. Learn why.
For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call
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Athens, May 13 Swann Creek Park North Marshall County, May 13 Arab Soccer Field South Marshall County, May 13 Boaz Middle School North Madison County, May 20 Hazel Green High School For more information on these events or to find out how to form a team, call 1-800-ACS 2345 or visit RelayForLife.org.
SUNDAY, MAY 1 Spring Tour of Homes– 1pm-4pm.Decatur Women's Chamber of Commerce presents Spring Pilgrimage Tour of Homes & Garden Party at Burningtree Country Club. For more information, call 256-353-5312.
FRIDAY, MAY 6 City Lights and Stars Concert –The tremendously popular City Lights & Stars Concert Series returns to the Gazebo at Burritt on the Mountain audiences with an 18th season of exciting musical entertainment in 2011. Kicking off the series are some hometown favorites. Chip Gulbro and Friends play swing, straight ahead, and Latin jazz, while Microwave Dave and the Nukes burn it up with the blues. Burritt on the Mountain, 3101 Burritt Drive, Huntsville.256536-2882. BurrittOnTheMountain.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 7 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 (Five Points). 256-534-1751. EckAlabama.org Garden Art Stroll–Stroll through the spring flowers to visit artists at their booths. Artists and craftsman of all types will be represented from photographers, to painters, to pottery, jewelery and more. Huntsville Botanical Garden, 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville. 256-830-4447. Huntsville Hazardous Waste Collection – 8am12pm. Drop off household hazardous waste on the first Saturday of each month at the Handle with Care Collection Center.Huntsville Landfill, 4100 Leeman Ferry Road. For special assistance, call 256-880-6054. For more information or to view a list of accepted household waste materials visit the Solid Waste Disposal Authority (SWDA) website at SWDAhsv.org.
SUNDAY, MAY 8 The Film Co-op monthly workshop meets in Don's Studio – 2-4pm. If you have a work in progress that you would like to discuss, bring a sample to show. Open to all, public invited. For more info, call Don at 256-457-5371. Flying Monkey Arts Center at Lowe Mill, 2211 Seminole Drive, Huntsville.
MONDAY, MAY 9 WEDNESDAY, MAY 4 ARTIST CRITIQUE–7pm. Open to all visual artists. Bring an open mind. Leave your feelings at the door. Make better art. Free admission.For questions, contact Mark Blevins at 256-509-6545. Flying Monkey Arts Center at Lowe Mill, 2211 Seminole Drive, Huntsville.
THURSDAY, MAY 5 Coalition for a Greener Huntsville – 6pm. Monthly meeting.A&B Conference Room of Huntsville Public Library, 915 Monroe St SW, Huntsville.
Huntsville Green Drinks – 5:30pm.An organization for anyone interested in sustainable living to share their interest and expertise with like-minded individuals. Eating and drinking are optional. Come learn about various topics such as green building, eating locally, environmental education efforts in local schools, and local green businesses. HSVGreenDrinks.org. Venue: Pane e Vino, 300 Church Street SW, Huntsville. Christian Healing Class–6:30pm.Rev. Carol Landry (LUT) will offer a class on “Christian Healing” based on the teachings of Charles Fillmore each Monday night beginning May 9 at Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Drive, Huntsville. Love offering.UnityChurchOnTheMountain.com.
Pasture-Raised Chickens
WEDNESDAY, MAY 11
SATURDAY, MAY 21
Are You Ready For Love? Singles Class –6:308pm on Wednesdays, May 11-July 6 at Unity Church on the Mountain in Huntsville. To preregister, call Rev. Grace at 256-880-7341 or email BGrace51@ gmail.com.
Soul Stock – North Alabama Biggest Outdoor Christian Music Fest.FREE Admission. Point Mallard Park, Decatur. For Group Reservations: Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau 1-800-232-5449. SoulStock.com. DecaturCVB.org.
• Locally Raised on Pasture! • Fresh and Natural! • Great Tasting! • No Drugs! Period!
Awaken Your Life with Meditation with Deb Paradise –11:30am-1pm, at The Dream Maker Shop, 4004 Triana Blvd., Huntsville. 205-994-5506. TheHowOfTao.com.
256-751-0987
Journey Into Possibility – 7pm. Monthly Ceremony, led by local Shaman. Feel free to just attend, or request to participate. 256-426-0232. KatyShamanHealer.blogspot.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 13 QUANTUM-RELIEF Certification Classes –May 13-16 at Lovely Dragonfly Farm.931-425-6833. Quantum-Relief.com The Road to Spiritual Freedom: A History (ECKANKAR ON TV)–7:30-8pm. Inspiring stories and insights from Harold Klemp, spiritual leader and acclaimed author of more than sixty books on ECKANKAR. Tune in to discover some of the milestones on your road to spiritual freedom. Free. Comcast Cable Channel 3 (Huntsville). 256-5341751. Eck-Alabama.org. 2011 Strawberry Fest–7am-5pm Friday and Saturday.The two-day festival will offer something for everyone in celebration of the finest strawberries and home-grown produce found anywhere in North Alabama. Visitors are can participate in activities like the annual 5K Run, a classic car/truck and antique tractor show, annual crafts fair both days, children’s carnival, historical district tours, live entertainment, games and giveaways, great food and lots of Strawberries. Free admission.For moreinformation please call 256-775-7207. FesthalleMarketplatz, 204 2nd Avenue NE, Cullman.
THURSDAY, MAY 19 thru SUNDAY, MAY 22 25th Annual Multi-Cultural Indian Festival – This four-day event celebrates the Indian and Celtic cultures and their roles in the history of Lawrence County. Music and art will be featured.Oakville Indian Mounds Education Center, 1219 County Road 187, Danville.256-905-2499.
THURSDAY, MAY 19 North Alabama Sierra Club– 6:30pm.Meets the third Thursday of every month at the Huntsville Madison County Public Library in the main auditorium.915 Monroe StreetHuntsville. All are welcome.
FRIDAY, MAY 20 Deep Connection Meditation with Deb Paradise 7-8:30pm. RSVP for Private Residence location. 205-994-5506.TheHowOfTao.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 27 Taoist Master Tao Huang– 6:30pm. Paranormal Study Center atat the Radisson Hotel’s Olympus Room in Madison. Master Huang will give us an overview of ancient Chinese wisdom teaching in the tradition of Lao Zi (also spelled Lao Tzu), known as Laoism, and will also share with us his healing in the Taoist tradition.Master Huang is available for healing sessions May 28, or earlier by appointment through email at Jadewinds@sbcglobal.net. Learn more about Master Huang at AscendingHall. com. Admission $10 at the door. 256-326-0092. ParanormalStudyCenter.com. Critical Mass Bicycle Ride – 6:30-8:30pm.Meet at SE Corner of Courthouse Downtown. Ride Starts at 7pm. Easy ride, fun for the whole family.
SATURDAY, JUNE 11 Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help Class Book 1– 9am1pm. Learn how to use your fingers and hands to release stress, promote relaxation, and maintain harmony and balance in your body. Jin Shin Jyutsu of Huntsville, 1108 McClung Ave. SE. The cost of the class is $75. Pre-register by June 5. 256534-1794.
BERKELEY BOB’S MAY MUSIC LINEUP Located in Cullman, Alabama, Berkeley Bob's Coffee House and Whole Earth Store is a 1960's style California Coffee House where we "celebrate nature, coffee and folk music." Open Mike Nites every first and third Monday from 7-9pm. Bring your guitar, bongos, poems, whatever, and share your talents with us. Saturday night concerts feature local and out of area musicians playing a wide variety of styles. All shows 7-9pm, family oriented and free. To inquire about a booking call Bob at 256-775-2944. BerkeleyBob.com. May 6 The Factory May 7 Hart Deer May 21 Walker Street Opera Bluegrass
www.RaisedOnPasture.com
Sold fresh at our family farm. Reservations required. Located off I-65 outside Hartselle in North Alabama
CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES HOME BASED BUSINESS www.OpportunityAdvancement.com One of the world’s most successful health products business is looking for ambitious and industrious individuals with a compelling desire to work from home, own their own business and desire unlimited opportunity in earning capacity. The company will provide free expert consultation and allow the opportunity to market and recruit. If you are serious about making changes, are teachable, willing to follow a proven success outline and work, then go to http://www.opportunityadvancement.com for more info and submit the form today. CURRENTLY PUBLISHING NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES – For sale in Birmingham, AL; Cincinnati, OH; Lexington, KY; Manhattan, NY; North Central, FL; Tulsa, OK; Southwest VA and Volusia/Flagler, FL. Call for details 239-530-1377
HOLISTIC THERAPY OFFICE SPACE Two (2) Treatment rooms for rent FOUR DAYS PER WEEK in busy existing Holistic Office in lovely Taft, TN. Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and/or Saturday are available to Massage Therapist, Acupuncturist, Chiropractor or other wellness practitioner. 931-425-6833.
MEDITATION CLASSES THE HOW OF TAO MEDITATION— RELAX, DE-STRESS, UNWIND, CONNECT, Q U I E T, U N - B L O C K , R E V I TA L I Z E , CREATE, AMAZE, LIFT UP, DIG DEEP, BREAK THROUGH... MEDITATE! Deb Paradise teaches Sum Faht Meditation. 205994-5506.DebParadiseArts@gmail.com. TheHowOfTao.com.
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ongoingevents SUNDAY Al-Anon – For those who have a loved one faced with a drinking problem. 256-885-0323. AAHuntsvilleAL.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. 256-895-0255. LightOfChristCenter.org. Unity Church Service– 10:30am. Practical Christianity from a transformative new thought metaphysical perspective. Our doors are open with love for all. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr. SE, Huntsville. 256-536-2271. UnityChurchOnTheMountain.com.
Huntsville. 256-882-0360. DirectionalHealing.com.
Power Yoga – 9:10-10:10am. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com.
Intermediate Mat Class– 5-6:15pm. Work at a faster pace incorporating exercises that will challenge one’s strength, flexibility and coordination. Body Language Pilates, 305 Jefferson St, Ste C, Huntsville. 256-7045080. BodyLanguagePilates.com.
Level I Yoga – 10:15-11:30am. Tatum Crigger. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
Basic Bellydance – 5:30-6:30pm. Mon-Thurs. Intro to basic bellydance technique. Nomadic Tapestry, 1219 B&C Jordan Ln, Huntsville. Class info: NomadicTapestry.com. Beginner Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com. Intro to Yoga– 5:30-6:30pm. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com.
Celebration of Spirit – 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. 256-895-0255. LightOfChristCenter.org.
Affinity Circle – 6pm.A safe space where individuals can open up and reveal what they are experiencing in life. Confidentiality is assured. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. Conscious-Living.org.
Kadampa Meditation Group – 3-4:30pm. Sunday book study class. Books-A-Million, University Dr., Huntsville. 3rd Sunday at Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr. SE, Huntsville. 256536-2271. UnityChurchOnTheMountain.com.
Level I Yoga – 6:30-8pm. All levels. Tom Musgrove. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
Power Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. Marcy White. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-653-9255 or 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
MONDAY Detox Footbaths, Nutritional Counseling, Wellness Coaching –Wellness is always available, if we know the tools to access it! Contact Michele Monticciolo, NC, MH via email at Michele@NewFocusNewYou. com or call Healing Arts at 256-534-2954 for your consult or appointment.
Yoga with Mitzi – 6:30pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. More info: 256-361-YOGA or MitziConnell.com. Activating and Utilizing Your Psychic Power – Thru Nov 15. 7pm. $100. Light of Christ sponsored. Contact: 256-881-2658 or Fayeglas@Knology.net.
TUESDAY
Lunchtime Belly Basics – 11:30am-12:30pm. Nomadic Tapestry, 1219 B&C Jordan Ln, Huntsville. NomadicTapestry.com. Power Yoga– 5:30-6:45pm. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com. Beginner/Intermediate Mat Class– 6-7:15pm. 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. 256-704-5080. BodyLanguagePilates.com Meditation – 6pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. ConsciousLiving.org. Science of Mind Classes (Accredited) – 6:30-8:30pm. Reverend David Leonard. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. Conscious-Living.org. Yoga with Mitzi – 6:45pm. Candlelight Yoga. All levels welcome. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500 Pratt Ave, Huntsville.More info: 256-361-YOGA or MitziConnell.com. Beginning Yoga – 7pm. Holly Dyess. Beez Fitness, 7495 Wall Triana Highway, Madison. $8 at the door for non-members.IronHorseFitness.com.
WEDNESDAY
Al-Anon – For those who have a loved one faced with a drinking problem. 256-885-0323. AAHuntsvilleAL.org.
Al-Anon – For those who have a loved one faced with a drinking problem. 256-885-0323. AAHuntsvilleAL.org.
Reduce Stress with EFT – Private phone sessions. To schedule, call Self Healing Awareness with EFT, 256-774-3392. TapIntoHealing.com.
Reduce Stress with EFT – Private phone sessions. To schedule, call Self Healing Awareness with EFT, 256-774-3392. Info: TapIntoHealing.com.
Sierra Club Hikes – Tuesday night hikes around Huntsville. Alabama.SierraClub.org/NA.html.
Spring City Cycling Club – Times and schedules at SpringCity.org.
Reduce Stress with EFT – Private phone sessions. To schedule, call Self Healing Awareness with EFT, 256-774-3392. Info: TapIntoHealing.com.
Spring City Cycling Club – Times and schedules at SpringCity.org.
Level 1 Pilates – 7-8am. All levels. Michelle Camper. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
Spring City Cycling Club – Times and schedules at SpringCity.org.
Mixed Flow Yoga – 8-9:30am. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com.
Level 1 Pilates – 7-8am. All levels. Michelle Camper. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
Pilates – 9-10am. Michelle Camper. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-5337975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
Mixed Flow Yoga– 8-9:30am. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com.
Yoga with Mitzi – 9am. The Art of Yoga. All levels welcome. Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Ave S, Huntsville. More info: 256-361-YOGA or MitziConnell.com.
Al-Anon – For those who have a loved one faced with a drinking problem. 256-885-0323. AAHuntsvilleAL.org.
Energy Lunch Lift – 12pm. Group Resonance Healing. Donations accepted. The Center for Directional Healing, 3322 S Memorial Pkwy, Ste 532,
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Align and Define Yoga – 8-9:30am. Laughing L o t u s Yo g a , 3 0 3 S e c o n d Av e , D e c a t u r. BodyInBalanceStudios.com. Level I Yoga– 9:15-10:30am. Erin Kennedy. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com. Practical Spirituality Class – 10am-12pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. Conscious-Living.org.
Science of Mind Classes– 10am-12pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256883-8596. Conscious-Living.org. Meditation – 6pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. ConsciousLiving.org. Power Yoga – 6-7pm. Marcy White. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-5337975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com. Yoga with Mitzi – 6pm. Yoga Flow. All levels welcome. Chiropractic Wellness Depot, 8210 Stephanie Dr, Huntsville. More info: 256-361-YOGA or MitziConnell.com. Satsang – 6:30pm. Satsang with a video of Gangaji. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. Conscious-Living.org.
Belly Kids – 4-5pm. Shahala Liz. Nomadic Tapestry, 1219 B&C Jordan Ln, Huntsville. NomadicTapestry.com. Mixed Flow Yoga– 5:30-6:45pm. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com. PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) – 6pm. Second Thurs. Parents, friends, and gay community members welcome. Bring snack. Huntsville Public Library. 256-881-0939. Yoga and Wine –6pm. All levels welcome. Presented by Yoga with Mitzi and The Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Ave, Huntsville. More info: 256-361YOGA or MitziConnell.com. Zumba Dance Class – 6:30pm. Donations accepted. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. Conscious-Living.org. Level I Yoga – 6:45-8:15pm. Tom Musgrove. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
THURSDAY Al-Anon – For those who have a loved one faced with a drinking problem. 256-885-0323. AAHuntsvilleAL.org. Spring City Cycling Club – Times and schedules at SpringCity.org. Pilates– 9am. 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. 256-704-5080. BodyLanguagePilates.com. Pilates – 9-10am. Michelle Camper. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-5337975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com. Power Yoga– 9:10-10:10am. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com. Level I Yoga – 10:15-11:30am. Tatum Crigger. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com. TBE Nooner Toastmasters – 11:45am-12:45pm. Practice public presentation and meeting etiquette. TBE Building #1, Sparkman Dr/Lakeshore Dr, Huntsville. Nancy Wade: 256-797-0700 or NWade@ LJStyle.com.
Beginning Yoga – 7pm. Holly Dyess. Beez Fitness, 7495 Wall Triana Highway, Madison. $8 at the door for non-members.IronHorseFitness.com.
Paranormal Study Center – 7pm, fourth Friday each month. Meets at Radisson Hotel/Olympus Room, 8721 Madison Blvd, Madison. For more information, contact Greg Rowe, 256-326-0092.
SATURDAY Al-Anon – For those who have a loved one faced with a drinking problem. 256-885-0323. AAHuntsvilleAL.org. Sierra Club – For weekend hike, canoe, backpacking and other activities, visit Alabama.SierraClub.org/ NA.html. Spring City Cycling Club – Times and schedules at SpringCity.org. Level I Yoga – 9-10:15am. Tom Musgrove. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com. Yoga with Mitzi – 10am. The Art of Yoga. All levels welcome. Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Ave, Huntsville. More info: 256-361-YOGA or MitziConnell.com.
Salsa 101 Dance Class– 8pm. Get the moves, feel the heat! Madison Ballroom, 9076 Madison Blvd, Madison. 256-461-1900.GabrielaDance.com.
Cardio Ballroom – 11am-12pm. Mega calorie burning dance fun! No more treadmill! Madison Ballroom, 9076 Madison Blvd, Madison. 256-4611900. GabrielaDance.com.
FRIDAY
Level I Yoga – 11:30-12:45pm. Bobbie Brooks. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.
Spring City Cycling Club – Times and schedules at SpringCity.org. Level 1 Pilates – 7-8am. All levels. Michelle Camper. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500-A Pratt Ave, Huntsville. 256-533-7975. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com. Slow Flow Yoga– 8-9:30am. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com. Power Yoga– 9:10-10:10am. Laughing Lotus Yoga, 303 Second Ave, Decatur. BodyInBalanceStudios.com. 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. 256-895-0255.
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 Drive, Huntsville.256.489.7000. FlyingMonkeyArts.org. Community HU Song – 1:30-2pm. Join others in singing HU, an ancient love song to God that can help and uplift one in countless ways. Huntsville ECK Center, 900 Wellman Avenue, Ste 3, Five Points. 256534-1751. Eck-Alabama.org. Ballroom Dancing – 7pm Beginner Group Class, 8pm Dance Party. Madison Ballroom Dance Studio, 9076 Madison Blvd, Madison. 256-461-1900.
L’BRI PURE n’ NATURAL Naturally… the best skincare product. Denise Brown Independent Consultant
256.755.6822 de456brown@aol.com www.denisebrown.lbri.com
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COMMUNITY resourceguide
COLON HYDROTHERAPY
FAMILY MEDICINE
CENTER FOR OPTIMAL WELL BEING
PROGRESSIVE FAMILY MEDICINE
7910 S. Memorial Pkwy, Suite F-2, Huntsville 256-489-9806 phone 256-489-2873 fax 866-488-9806 toll free
Chad Gilliam, M.M.S. PA-C 1230 Slaughter Road, Suite C, Madison, AL 256-722-0555 ProFamilyMed.com
The Center for Optimal Well Being is dedicated to improving your health with colon hydro-therapy and body empowerment services. Sessions are conducted in clean, comfortable and relaxing private suites with soft lighting and aromatic fragrances. Our staff is clinically trained and certified by the International Association for Colon Therapists.
JARVIS NATURAL HEALTH CLINIC 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.
ELECTRODERMAL TESTING
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.
HEALTHY CHOICES LLC Steve Krzyzewski 3322 S. Memorial Pkwy, Suite 526 Huntsville, AL 35801 256-679-1997 healthychoicesLLC@gmail.com Healthy Choices LLC provides Electrodermal Testing and the Detoxifying Ionic Footbath. Electrodermal Testing uncovers the root cause(s) of health issues and designs a protocol to help the body heal itself. The Detoxifying Ionic footbath helps excrete toxins out of the body bringing you back into balance.
ENERGY HEALING CENTER FOR DIRECTIONAL HEALING Susan Spalding, Director 256-882-0360 DirectionalHealing.com Free the energy within you! Take your health and your life to a new level with Directional Healing. Clears, cleanses, balances, rejuvenates through resonance healing.
EUROPEAN FACIAL TREATMENT THE EUROPEAN SKIN CARE CLINIC Huntsville, Alabama 256-880-0709 For the past 18 years providing outstanding European Facial Treatments that slow the aging process up to 20 years! Board certified Master Esthetician owned and operated. These treatments beautify and clear skin problems. A Facial Series can jump-start your complexion to radiance after the harsh winter months. Deep Cleansing the pores, renewal, firming & lifting, Rosacea—we treat them all! Only the finest French pharmaceutical grade products are used.
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JIN SHIN JYUTSU® JIN SHIN JYUTSU OF HUNTSVILLE Sandra Cope Huntsville 256-534-1794 256-509-3540 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.
MASSAGE CENTER FOR THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE AND BODYWORK 1634 Slaughter Rd., Madison 256-430-9756 Our vision is to provide professional massage services in a comfortable clinical environment to Madison and the surrounding area. Student massages available for 1/2 the regular rate. Lic. E1311.
ALOHA, HUNTSVILLE! IT’S YOUR MASSAGE 256-426-6400 3322 Memorial Parkway South Are you enjoying your weekly massage? We’re here to help! For the connoisseur of contentment, we can personally blend from our unique styles of massage to help you feel your very best! Est. 2003. Nine 5-Star Reviews. Appointments are on island time 11am-6pm. It’s Your Massage is a family-friendly practice owned by Rebecca Beene.
MASSAGE SCHOOL GREEN HOME IMPROVEMENT M. A. JACKSON CO. SUNROOMS, BATH SYSTEMS & OTHER HOME REMODELING P.O. Box 2625, Cullman, AL 35056 office 256-739-0317 fax 256-734-7022 MAJacksonCo.com The M. A. Jackson Co. is a quality home improvement business since 1972, covering the North Alabama region. We specialize in sunroom/screen room additions, window/door replacement, cabinetrefacing and bathtub/shower systems. We display our products in Sam’s Clubs, local magazines, Shopping Malls, and Trade Shows located in the Tennessee Valley. All of our products are custom made to fit your needs and are installed in less than a week. Free Design Consultation.Call today toll free at 1-888-739-0317.
IN-HOME MASSAGE CLOUD NINE 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.
MADISON SCHOOL OF MASSAGE THERAPY, LLC 1634 Slaughter Rd, Suite C Madison, AL 35758 256-430-9756 MadisonSchoolOfMassageTherapy.com Our training will change your life forever in a new career as a Professional. Student massages available for 1/2 the regular rate. AL Board of Massage School Lic# S-117 AL State Board of Ed. School Lic# 1200I
MASSAGE / SPIRITUAL COACHING / RETREAT CENTER THE YURT GARDEN Lynn Leach 256-424-2221 YurtGarden.com The Yurt Garden is nestled on five acres at the base of Keel Mountain, ten minutes from Hampton Cove. Here you can unwind and de-stress with a therapeutic massage, energy work session or hot rock massage. Life coaching and cancer support are offered in a healing atmosphere surrounded by a hidden garden and an eleven-circuit labyrinth. Overnight packages for singles and couples available.
MUSIC THERAPY
PILATES
STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION
HEALING SOUNDS MUSIC THERAPY
BODY LANGUAGE, INC.
JACI HOGUE
Stephanie Bolton, MA, MT-BC 256-655-0648 ImageryAndMusic.com
305 Jefferson St., Ste. C 256-704-5080 sybil@bodylanguagepilates.com BodyLanguagePilates.com
256-656-4108 jaci@alabamarolfmethod.com AlabamaRolfMethod.com
Huntsville, AL- based music therapy practice focused on improving personal health and wellness using guided imagery and music techniques.Currently providing workshops and individual consultations.
NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE ASSOCIATES Dr. Deb Gilliam, N.M.D. 1230 Slaughter Road, Madison, AL 256-722-0555 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.
NUTRITION & WELLNESS DETOXIFYING FOOTBATHS, NUTRITION, WELLNESS COUNSELING Michele Monticciolo, NC MH Certified Nutritionist, Herbalist, Holistic Healthcare Practitioner 256-426-0982 Michele@ NewFocusNewYou.com
Our goal is to teach individuals how to take control of their health and well-being through the Pilates method, 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.
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.
YOGA CENTER OF HUNTSVILLE
SUSAN K. JEFFREYS
500-A East Pratt Ave. 256-533-7975 YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com Our focus is on core stability, neutral alignment and patterned breathing. It restores the natural curves of the spine, relieves tension and enhances self-confidence. We feature certified instruction in group and individual training.
TOP NOTCH TRAINING Decatur, Alabama 256-274-1348 GetFit@TopNotchDecatur.com TopNotchDecatur.com TNT's PowerPlay sessions combine the energy and social experience of traditional aerobics classes with the power and effectiveness of working with knowledgeable, experienced personal trainers. With our low client-to-instructor ratio you are guaranteed abundant personal attention at each class for a fraction of the cost of an individual training session. Regularly scheduled classes are held Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30am and 5:30pm at Decatur Athletic Club’s Beltline location. $15 per session. Additional classes and offsite locations can also be scheduled.
Top Notch Training
“When the body gets working appropriately, then the force of gravity can flow through. Then spontaneously, the body heals itself.” Ida P. Rolf
REFLEXOLOGY JIM BARNES, CERTIFIED REFLEXOLOGIST REFLEX ACTION 124 14th St. Suite D3, Decatur, AL 35601 256-227-2920 256-309-0033
YOGA YOGA CENTER OF HUNTSVILLE 500-A East Pratt Ave. 256-533-7975 YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com We teach yoga postures and principles designed to bring strength, flexibility, openness, and awareness into the body. Classic yoga postures, modifications are introduced to give the student many options in developing a personal practice.
SHAMAN HEALER KATY GLENN WILLIS 256-426-0232 katyglennwillis@yahoo.com KatyShamanHealer.blogspot.com
PERSONAL TRAINING / FUNCTIONAL FITNESS
Advanced Practitioner Lic.#249 Dr. Ida P. ROLF method 2336A Whitesburg Drive Serving Huntsville since 1995 256-512-2094 RolfGuild.org
Spiritualy 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.
Women are like teabags. We don’t know our true strength until we are in hot water! ~Eleanor Roosevelt
SMALL CHANGE COACH / NLP SMALL CHANGE WORKS John Lambert Cullman, AL 35055 256-590-3824 jwlamber@gmail.com John Lambert offers Small Change Sessions for individuals and Small Skills Workshops for groups. John specializes in utilizing your language, metaphors, and timelines to refine goals, change thoughts, and generate new behaviors. Workshops are held in nonlecture format punctuated by short, engaging presentations and an abundance of individual attention, creating a safe environment for learning and practicing new skills you can use in your everyday life.
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