Natural Awakenings May 2016 by Natural Awakenings Magazine, Tennessee Valley Edition

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Almost Everyone May Be Iodine-Deﬁcient

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Reboot Your Eating Habits Small Shifts Can Drop Pounds and Gain Health

May 2016

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letterfrompublisher The month of May brings our Women’s Wellness issue in Natural Awakenings, and we have a full slate of excellent articles to share with you this month. Women often lead the way in the search for health and wellness, and are many times the ones who integrate new, healthier strategies for living into the home and family. Women are much more active utilizers of both traditional and alternative health care services than men. Women tend to be the caregivers, nurturers, nutritionists, counselors, advice givers and healers in families and in society. Also, women read. Sorry, men, but it is true. Men don’t like to read as much as women do, and we aren’t as likely to make changes in our lives based on what we read. Those of you who are guys who read Natural Awakenings are often an exception to this general rule. You know who you are. In honor of women’s wellness, there are three women who are joining us in this month’s issue whom I would like to acknowledge, for they all are on what I feel is the cutting edge of health and wellness in terms of changing our relationship to food. All three of these women are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the remarkable power we have to heal the human body by fundamentally changing what we put into it. They are Dana Sims, plant-based nutritional counselor and Certified Wholistic Rejuvenist, Susan Clark, Manager of Chase Chiropractic Center and wife of Dr. Brian Clark, and Cheree Vasquez, Holistic Health Coach, who is joining Dr. Jamie’s Wellness Center. I talked to all three of these ladies preparing for the May issue, and they all said basically the same thing: that switching to clean, healthy food, and away from chemical-laden, processed foods is by far the best way, and really the only way, to heal the body. That sickness, disease, poor health, weight gain and obesity are all symptoms of the body not getting what it needs, nutritionally, to maintain itself. That the root cause of many illnesses is systemic inflammation that can be reversed with anti-inflammatory foods. That too many people are counting calories, and not enough people are counting chemicals. That detoxification is fundamental to weight loss. That healing begins “in the gut.” That healing—to become vibrant and whole once again—is completely possible. Each one of these women has a personal story of recovering from serious illness or injury utilizing holistic means. Each of them was so inspired by their recovery that they have devoted their time to helping others to heal themselves holistically with the insight and information that they gained from their experience and learned through further education in holistic health. Whether it’s spelled wholistic or holistic, it refers to the same thing: giving the body everything it needs to naturally heal itself.

contact us Editor@Natvalley.com 256-808-8044 Publisher/Editor Advertising Sales Tom Maples Co-Publisher Cindy Wilson Design and Production Melanie Rankin Natural Awakenings in the Tennessee Valley 14 Woodland Ave Trinity, AL 35673 Fax: 256-217-4274 Facebook.com/natvalley Issuu.com/natvalley © 2016 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 $20 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

natural awakenings

May 2016

contents 8

5 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 1 0 globalbriefs 1 2 practicespotlight

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.

12 CHASE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER SOLUTIONS 4 WEIGHT LOSS

1 7 consciouseating 1 8 healingways 2 1 wisewords

by Susan Clark

14 SPARK UP YOUR LOVE LIFE

Natural Ways to Boost Libido

22 greenliving 24 naturalpet

27 inspiration

30 resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE Display Ads due by the 15th of the month prior to publication. To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 256-808-8044 or email Editor@Natvalley.com.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS* Newsbriefs due by the 15th of the month. Limit 50-250 words. Content limited to special events and other announcements. No advertorials, please. Articles and ideas due by the 15th 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 15th of the month. Limit 50 words per entry. Please follow format found in those sections.

ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY 256-808-8044 -or- Editor@Natvalley.com *All submissions are subject to editing and will be printed at the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

Digital archive: Issuu.com/natvalley

Tennessee Valley

by Lisa Marshall

18 SOLUTIONS FOR A

SLUGGISH THYROID

Keying in on Iodine

28 calendar 29 classifieds

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by Kathleen Barnes

CHRISTIE BRINKLEY SHARES HER SECRETS TO LASTING BEAUTY Why She Still Looks Terrific After 40 Years as a Model by Gerry Strauss

22 TIPS FOR THE BEST YARD SALE EVER

How to Profitably Give Unwanted Stuff a New Life

18 21

by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

24 STRESSED-OUT PETS Natural Ways to Calm Fear and Anxiety by Sandra Murphy

26 HOW TO REBOOT

YOUR EATING HABITS

Small Shifts Can Drop Pounds and Gain Health by Judith Fertig

27 PICTURE YOUR FUTURE

Creating a Vision Board Makes Dreams Real by Jayne Morris

newsbriefs Healthy Cooking Class with Dana Sims at Alabama Holistic Health

ana Sims, a threetime cancer survivor, regained her health by using food as medicine. She embraced a wholistic lifestyle under the guidance of her naturopath and her efforts were rewarded. Now she has forged her passion for nutrition-based medicine by teaching others the health benefits of wholistic rejuvenation, including learning to be an avid label-reader and healthy preparation. She’s teaching a three-part class on preparing healing foods at Alabama Holistic Health Dana Sims (left) with family on three Monday nights in May. A military wife and mother of two, Dana always strived to eat healthy, but it was not until 2008 when diagnosed with ovarian and pancreatic cancer that she took an avid interest in naturopathy, wholistic rejuvenation principles and non-drug solutions. She was able to reverse her neuropathy—a common side effect of the chemotherapy she was undergoing—with natural foods and specialized supplements. Then, in 2011, a tumor was found on her liver. Dana rejected the idea of more chemo and put herself under the care of Dr. Gloria Gilbere, a doctor of natural health and author of 18 books including best-seller, Chemical Cuisine: Do You REALLY Know What You’re Eating? With a regimen that included green drinks, special functional food protein shakes, coconut oil, and wholistic detoxification protocols, Dana’s liver tumor disappeared. Dana is now a plant-based nutritional counselor and Certified Wholistic Skin and Body Rejuvenist. Her goal in this three-part class is to educate people how to avoid chemicalladen, processed foods and additives that cause inflammation, which are at the root cause of most disorders. She’ll teach you which foods induce inflammation and offer tasty alternatives. “By the third class, you will know what to eat, what not to eat, its medicinal properties and how to identify toxic ingredients on food labels,” says Dana. Class dates: May 2, 9, and 16, 6:30-8:30pm. Cost: $75. Location: Alabama Holistic Health, 204 Lowe Ave, Ste 3, Huntsville. 256-801-9162. Head2ToeChange.net. See listing, page 31.

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newsbriefs Dr. Jamie’s Wellness Center Welcomes New Holistic Health Coach

Hummingbirds’ Haven Catherine Basten When midwestern artist Catherine Basten began drawing at an early age, her favorite subject was animals. “My grandmother owned a store and gave me art materials, while encouraging me to continually improve,” she recalls. As an adult, Basten’s life became filled with work, family and outdoor activities, and she put painting aside. Then, years later, she returned to her childhood passion, painting on everything from wood blocks, metal and paper to ceramics, glass and furniture. “I hungered to create my own style, and after attempting to paint many subjects, I found my muse: depicting nature at its best,” she recounts. Basten’s love of painting wildlife and a desire to share her knowledge about the natural world also evolved into two children’s eBooks, Tiny Wings and Come and Walk with Me. The charming narratives and colorful illustrations help youngsters identify nature’s living marvels through the seasons. “Nature is filled with many precious gifts, and art is the application of human creative skill and imagination,” she muses. “It is the expression of what is beautiful.” View the artist’s portfolio at CatherineBasten.blogspot.com. 6

Tennessee Valley

olistic Health Coach Cheree Vasquez has joined Dr. Jamie’s Wellness Center. Cheree provides consultation and coaching to help people make the dietary and lifestyle changes they want in their lives. Health goals can include achieving optimal weight, reducing food cravings, increasing sleep, and maximizing energy. The process involves identifying food and lifestyle choices that work best for each person and implementing lasting changes that will improve energy, balance and health. Cheree received her training as a Health Coach Cheree Vasquez from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition’s cuttingedge Health Coach Training Program. During her training, she studied over 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques, and innovative coaching methods with some of the world’s top health and wellness experts, including Dr. Andrew Weil, Director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, Dr. Deepak Chopra, leader in the field of mind-body medicine, Dr. David Katz of Yale University, and Dr. Walter Willett of Harvard University. “I practice a holistic approach to health and wellness, which means that I look at how all areas of your life are connected,” she says. “My approach is not to dwell on calories, carbs, fats, and proteins. It is not to create lists of restrictions or good and bad foods. Instead, I work with my clients to create a happy, healthy life in a way that is flexible, fun and rewarding.” Schedule your free initial health consultation with Cheree online at HolisticHealth Girl.com. Dr. Jamie’s Wellness Center is located at 917 Merchant’s Walk, Suite A, Huntsville (behind Whole Foods). 256-337-1946. See ad, page 24.

Holistic Huntsville Accepting Vendor Applications

olistic Huntsville is the annual premier event providing our community with exposure to local businesses and health practices who deal with natural health and wellness lifestyles. Professionals in natural wellness from natural medicine and herbs to juiceries will be present to answer questions and guide the public in healthy, natural choices for health and living. By uniting everyone with a similar vision of a healthier, more natural approach to life, Holistic Huntsville hopes to enhance the health of our community through educational presence and awareness as well as benefit our local natural wellness businesses. Those who are interested in hosting a booth at this great event, please visit HolisticHuntsville.com/vendors. For further inquiries, contact event coordinator Calli Thomason at HolisticHuntsville@gmail.com. Date: Saturday, July 30, 10am-4pm. Location: University of Alabama in Huntsville’s CTC Exhibit Hall. Info: HolisticHuntsville.com. Be sure to “Like” the page Facebook.com/HolisticHuntsville. See ad, page 19.

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Yoga for Pregnancy and Birth

he word “yoga” comes from Sanskrit and means to yoke, join together, or unite. Through the physical practice of yoga, the mind, the body, and the emotions unite, creating a sense of inner peace and harmony. Yoga works on the mind and the body simultaneously. As with birth, it is both a physical and an emotional experience. Yoga consists of three components: (1) yoga postures, or asanas, that help build strength and increase flexibility; (2) breathing exercises, or pranayamas; and (3) relaxation, or shavasana. These same components are integral parts of childbirth preparation, so practicing yoga during pregnancy actually helps the mother prepare for birth. The yoga postures are done along with an awareness of the breath. This helps to create a sense of calmness, which ultimately helps to decrease anxiety about pregnancy and the birth process. The practice of yoga during pregnancy also allows the mother to connect with her unborn child. In addition, the physical practice of the yoga postures helps to build strength and endurance, increase flexibility, reduce fatigue, and relieve many of the common discomforts of pregnancy. During pregnancy and the postpartum period a woman’s body undergoes many physical adaptations and changes in alignment. Yoga postures help to bring the body into alignment, which is very beneficial for pregnant women as well as those who have just had a baby. Yoga’s calm and mindful approach offers many benefits for pregnant women as they grow their babies, prepare for birth, and transition to motherhood. Prenatal yoga classes are taught by Marcy Evans RN, BSN at The Yoga Center of Huntsville. YogaCenterofHuntsville.com. Facebook.com/MarcyEvansYoga.

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Magnesium Improves Childbirth for Mother and Newborn

esearch presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists has found that magnesium reduces fevers during childbirth, as well as complications among newborns. The study followed 63,000 deliveries from Northwestern Memorial Hospital, in Chicago, between 2007 and 2014. Of these, 6,163 women developed fevers of at least 100.4° F during labor. Of the women that developed fevers, 2,190 received magnesium sulfate intravenously during their labor. Rates of fever at maternity dropped by half, to 4.3 percent, in women that received the magnesium, versus 9.9 percent in those that did not. The rate of newborn complications was also significantly lower among women given magnesium. The study, led by Dr. Elizabeth Lange, an attending physician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, is the first of its kind to investigate the effect of magnesium on childbirth. “By reducing the incidence of maternal fever, magnesium sulfate therapy may also reduce the incidence of complications in newborns,” says Lange.

Red Clover Guards against Menopausal Bone Loss

12-week study of 60 menopausal women in Denmark has found that red clover halted bone loss and bone mineral density reduction. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled research, sponsored by the Aarhus University Medical School and Hospital, tested the women over a three-month period. Half were treated with 150 milliliters of red clover extract daily and the others were given a placebo. The red clover plant extract was standardized to 37 milligrams of isoflavones, including 34 milligrams of aglycones. The scientists measured changes in bone mineral density, bone mineral content and T-score, measured at the spine and femoral bone. They also monitored bone turnover markers. By the end of the study, the women in the placebo group had continued to lose bone mass and bone mineral density. Those given the red clover extract showed no such reductions during the study period. In addition, the red clover group experienced no increase in inflammation or blood pressure.

Jin Shin Jyutsu® of Huntsville Sandra Cope Certified Jin Shin Jyutsu® Practitioner

orean medical school scientists have found that those eating more legumes have a significantly reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Their research analyzed the diets of 3,740 people, including 901 colorectal cancer patients. A total of 106 different foods were graded and calculated to establish frequency of intake among the study participants. The group that consumed the highest amounts of legumes had more than a 50 percent drop in incidence of colorectal cancer. As legume consumption increased, colorectal cancer risk decreased. The researchers attributed the dramatic reduction in risk to the intake of isoflavones, contained in many nuts and beans. When intakes of total isoflavones were calculated, those with diets that contained the highest levels reduced their colorectal cancer risk, by 33 percent in men and 35 percent in women. The researchers reported, “The reduced risks for colorectal cancer among high-intake groups were most consistent for legumes and sprouts.”

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The Missing Link: Inflammation and Depression in Women

ntidepressant drug use is on the rise, particularly among women. A report released by Medco Health Solutions analyzed prescription claims data from 2.5 million Americans between 2001 and 2010 and found that 25 percent of women take drugs for a mental health condition. Despite a mainstream medicine notion that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance, medications known by familiar names such as Zoloft and Prozac meant to counter symptoms of such an imbalance may instead be causing a host of known harmful side effects. “In six decades, not a single study has proven that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance,” asserts Dr. Kelly Brogan, an integrative physician, women’s health advocate and pioneer in holistic psychiatry. A study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry in 2014 reviewed 10 randomized, placebo-controlled trials to assess the effectiveness of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) in adults with symptoms of depression. The researchers from Aarhus University, in Denmark, found that treating inflammation in patients helped decrease their symptoms. Brogan asserts that this approach is the best way to treat depression in women, advocating the use of a holistic anti-inflammation strategy instead of NSAIDs or antidepressants. “A more effective, drug-free approach is to recruit basic lifestyle changes that kick-start the body’s self-healing mechanisms, helping to curtail the symptoms of depression,” she claims. Her suggestions include dietary modification; simple breathing and meditation techniques; minimizing exposure to biology-disrupting toxins that include common over-the-counter drugs; sufficient sleep and exercise. “Medical literature has emphasized the role of inflammation in mental illness for more than 20 years, so if you think a chemical pill can save, cure or correct you, think again,” says Brogan. “Covering over symptoms is a missed opportunity to resolve the root cause of the problem.”

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

Mm-mm Good Campbell’s Endorses GMO Labeling

Campbell Soup Company recently became the first major food corporation to support the mandatory labeling of genetically modified ingredients and will support the enactment of federal legislation to establish a single mandatory labeling standard for foods derived from genetically modified organisms (GMO). A company spokesperson says, “With 92 percent of Americans supporting the labeling of GMO foods, Campbell believes now is the time for the federal government to act quickly to implement a federal solution.” The company says that if a federal solution is not reached, it is prepared to label all of its U.S. products for the presence of ingredients derived from GMOs and seek guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and approval by the U. S. Department of Agriculture. The company also has pledged to remove artificial colors and flavors from nearly all of its North American products by July 2018. For more information, visit WhatsInMyFood.com.

Salmon Scam

Farmed Fish Mislabeled as Wild-Caught The nonprofit Oceana reveals that salmon, America’s favorite fish, is often mislabeled in restaurants and grocery stores. They collected 82 salmon samples from restaurants and grocery stores between December 2013 and March 2014 and found that 43 percent were mislabeled. DNA testing confirmed that the majority of the mislabeling (69 percent) consisted of farmed Atlantic salmon being sold as a wild-caught product. “Americans might love salmon, but as our study reveals, they may be falling victim to a bait-and-switch,” says Beth Lowell, a senior campaign director with Oceana. “Not only are consumers getting ripped off, but responsible U.S. fishermen are being cheated when fraudulent products lower the price for their hard-won catch.” Kimberly Warner, Ph.D., the report’s author and a senior scientist at Oceana, observes, “While U.S. fishermen catch enough salmon to satisfy 80 percent of our domestic demand, 70 percent of that catch is then exported, instead of going directly to American grocery stores and restaurants.” Source: Oceana.org

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are a nation of overweight and undernourished people. When the body accumulates years of improper food and more toxins than it can handle, it stores the excess as fat. Our gut health is destroyed and we cannot properly digest and absorb nutrients. We help your body rid itself of these toxins, safely, naturally and effectively. This allows your body to start the healing process. Without ridding our bodies of these toxins, sustainable weight loss is next to impossible. Susan Clark and What makes our This process will make Dr. Brian Clark you feel cleaner, and program different? more mentally and emotionally aware. Very often the conventional It’s truly amazing. approach to weight loss and health, no We educate you on the principles matter how well meaning, leaves the of proper nutrition and stay with you real causes of your condition overevery step of the way. We teach you looked. Diets do not work for the long how to eat “clean and healthy” for life. term. We offer a lifestyle change, not another “diet.” Our holistic approach is Dr. Clark and his staff are dedicated to your success and well-being. Proper specifically designed for each individsupplementation is also important, ual, just for you, to make sure you get though not all supplements are creeverything you need for success. ated equal. We offer 100% pure, 100% The average American diet does organic, non-GMO herbs and supplenot provide the proper nutrients our ments that are grown and manufactured bodies need just to survive, must less specifically for this program. They are thrive. The average American also eats not available anywhere else. You can between 6 and 9 pounds of chemical actually feel them working, helping to additives each year, not to mention the supplement and heal your body from chemicals we absorb from industrial years of ingesting improper food and pollutants. This leads to weight gain, toxic chemicals. illness, and degenerative disease. We We utilize principles of proper nutrition and supplementation to bring your body into balance for better overall health and sustained weight loss. Weight gain is a symptom telling you that your body is not getting what it needs to function correctly. The body’s natural healing abilities are incredible, and the only way to permanently lose weight and regain good health is to give the body what it needs. This is the foundation of our approach.

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How do we know this works?

We know this approach has helped many people regain their health and achieve permanent weight loss, but most importantly, we are walking testimonies ourselves. Everyone at our clinic follows this approach, and our lives here have changed for the better. We continue to eat “clean and healthy.” We each have lost a lot of weight, kept it off, and have achieved a sense of wellbeing that is undeniable. We decided to offer this program after seeing what it did for us. This is truly amazing.

What other things do we offer?

Treatment for neuropathy. This is by no means a traditional approach but a holistic, natural and safe way to help those who suffer from this horrible condition. Unfortunately, there are more than 10,000 amputations every year due to peripheral neuropathy. The body

is not getting what it needs. We offer a free week of neuropathy treatment so you can feel the difference! Then we will offer a personal neuropathy treatment program designed just for you!

What are our goals?

We want to help people with neuropathy. We want to help people who are frustrated and tired of living with painful symptoms which being overweight only makes worse. We want to help people who are tired of going on “diets” only to regain the weight they lost and gain a few extra pounds in the process. Weight gain is a symptom of your body not functioning properly and not getting what it needs. We can give you the tools and resources you need to succeed. Healing is a team approach. We want to empower you to obtain optimal health, wellness and balance, and the first step is reforming your relationship with food. Too many people have tried everything out there for a quick fix to their problems, only to be disappointed. While there is no magic fix, our approach usually provides quick results. We provide the tools, education, support and resources that are necessary for you to attain your goals, but you have to do the work to facilitate

your own healing. You get better results if you are part of the process, learning things that will help you for your entire life. Once you start, there is no looking back. It’s incredible! It will change your life.

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SPARK UP YOUR LOVE LIFE Natural Ways to Boost Libido by Lisa Marshall

nderlying health issues aside, a hectic schedule packed with work deadlines, kids’ sporting events and household chores can leave little time for intimacy. Letting that pattern go on too long can become a problem. “There’s a use-it-or-lose-it phenomenon that occurs,” says Dr. Anita Clayton, a University of Virginia psychiatry professor, neurologist and author of Satisfaction: Women, Sex, and the Quest for Intimacy. Despite what hyper-seductive female media stereotypes suggest we believe, in the real world, 39 percent of women feel they lack sex drive, and nearly half experience some kind of sexual dissatisfaction, according to a survey of 32,000 women published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology. About one in eight women are significantly distressed about it. “The truth is, many of us don’t have great sex lives,” confirms Clayton. Sprout Pharmaceuticals introduced Addyi, aka filbanserin, last fall; the first prescription drug to address low libido in women. Some heralded the controversial medication as “the little pink pill,” seeing it as the female version of males’ blue Viagra pill, which a halfmillion men purchased in its first month on the market in 1998. Yet several 14

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months after its launch, only about 1,000 women had tried Addyi and many doctors declined to prescribe it, due to its lack of widespread efficacy and possible adverse side effects, including low blood pressure and fainting when combined with alcohol. “This is a complex problem that requires a complex solution,” says Honolulu-based naturopathic physician Laurie Steelsmith, author of Great Sex Naturally: Every Woman’s Guide to Enhancing Her Sexuality Through the Secrets of Natural Medicine. “For most women, drugs are not the answer.” She notes that for men, boosting libido is largely a matter of boosting circulation and blood flow to the penis. But for women, desire for lovemaking stems from an interplay of emotional, interpersonal, hormonal and anatomical drivers that make lack of desire harder to “treat”. The truth is that many simple, effective, non-drug approaches exist. As Boulder, Colorado, marriage therapist Michele Weiner Davis puts it, “There’s no reason why a woman wanting a more robust sex life cannot have one.”

Overall Health Check

The number one culprit for low libido in women is subpar physical health, says Steelsmith. “To be capable of fully

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enjoying pleasure, you need a healthy body.” Carrying excess weight can both erode self-esteem and lead to reductions in a woman’s natural circulating testosterone, a critical hormone that helps ignite pleasure circuits in the female brain and increase sensitivity in the clitoris. Being underweight can result in fatigue and low sexual energy, diminished production of excitatory brain chemicals and low levels of estrogen, key for keeping a woman moist. Meanwhile, Steelsmith explains, excess stress can prompt the body to “steal” from libido-boosting hormones like progesterone in order to make more of the stress-hormone cortisol. High blood sugar can drive down testosterone, while high cholesterol can clog pelvic blood vessels, dulling sensation. Depression, diabetes and thyroid disorders are other major libido killers, says Clayton. “If you treat them effectively, you may see big improvements.” Women seeking to improve their sexual health should first try to achieve a healthy weight via diet and exercise, Steelsmith says. She recommends an organic diet rich in complex carbohydrates (which keep blood sugar balanced), lean protein (a precursor to desire-related neurotransmitters) and good fats (which help keep vulval tissues lubricated). Exercise—another circulation booster—is also key. Do it before a scheduled hot date for even better results. One 2014 study of 52 women found that those that worked out prior to an anticipated romantic encounter had significantly increased sexual desire.

Pamper Femaleness

Many women avoid sexual encounters for fear of sparking a urinary tract or vaginal infection. This becomes more common after age 40, as estrogen wanes and pelvic tissue thins and dries, leaving it more vulnerable to microbial invaders. Because semen is alkaline, it changes a woman’s vaginal pH, allowing unfriendly bacteria to thrive, says Steelsmith. Her advice: Always go to the bathroom and urinate after intercourse, and use natural lubricants, like vitamin E. For some women, she also recommends low-dose, prescription estrogen cream or suppositories.

If an infection occurs, try to treat it naturally, avoiding antibiotics, which can spark yeast overgrowth. Instead, Steelsmith recommends using tea tree oil, goldenseal, or probiotic douches or suppositories, available online and at health food stores. Kegel exercises are a famous aid, involving clamping down as if interrupting urine flow, before releasing and repeating. This not only help fends off urinary incontinence and infection, it also strengthens and firms pelvic muscles, rendering enhanced enjoyment for both partners.

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Make Time for Intimacy

Research has shown that over time, frequent lovemaking actually causes structural changes in certain areas of the brain as new connections form and sex-related regions grow stronger. Stop, and those areas atrophy, making physical intimacy feel awkward once it’s resurrected. A sexless relationship can also be emotionally devastating for the person, often the male, that wants more contact, says Weiner Davis, author of The Sex-Starved Marriage: Boosting Your Marriage Libido. “For the spouse yearning for touch, it is a huge deal,” she says. “It’s about feeling wanted, attractive and loved.” In her practice, she often sees couples that are mismatched in how they wish to demonstrate and receive love. Often, the woman wants to feel close emotionally before she can feel close physically. For the man, physical intimacy is a conduit for opening up emotionally. When both keep waiting to get what they want, the relationship suffers. She counsels couples to deliberately make time to address both partners’ needs. Schedule a long walk or intimate dinner to talk over feelings; also schedule sex. “Some people say, ‘Oh, but natural awakenings

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that’s not spontaneous enough,’” says Weiner Davis. “But even if you put it on the calendar, what you do with that time can still be spontaneous and playful.” While most women assume that they need to be in the mood first, research by University of British Columbia Psychiatrist Rosemary Basson suggests that in some women, desire only comes after physical arousal, especially by a loving partner that takes the time to meet her needs. “I wish I had a dollar for each time someone said to me, ‘I’m not in the mood, but once I get into it, I surprise myself, because I have a really good time,’” says Weiner Davis. She’s not advising women to make love when they really don’t want to, but rather to be open to it even when the circumstances aren’t ideal. “A lot of women feel like the house has to be clean, with the kids asleep and free of distracting noises,” she says. “Sometimes, just do it.”

Is Sex Essential?

Clayton points out that while 42 percent of women experience either low sex drive or satisfaction, fewer than 12 percent are really bothered by it. “Some women experience great grief and loss about this. They say, ‘It used to be a part of my life and now it’s gone.’” For some in this subset that are unable to find relief via lifestyle changes, she would recommend Addyi, said to boost desire by changing brain chemicals. On the other hand, many women don’t need to take any action at all. “If someone has low sex drive and it doesn’t matter to them or their partner, it’s not a problem.” That said, the benefits of attending to an affectionate, healthy sex life can go far beyond the bedroom, improving overall health and strengthening relationships, notes Steelsmith. Sex burns calories, increases circulation, releases calming and painkilling hormones like prolactin and prompts production of the “bonding hormones” vasopressin and oxytocin. “When you are in a loving relationship and you express that love through your body, physiological changes occur that can help you bond more deeply with your partner,” she says. “The more you make love, the more love you make.” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

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Five Common Libido Killers Birth Control Pills: Oral contraceptives can boost levels of sex hormone-binding globulin, which attaches to desire-promoting testosterone, making it harder for the body to access it. Antidepressants: Numerous antidepressant medications have been shown to decrease libido, but leaving depression untreated can kill sex drive even more; consider natural alternatives. Smoking: It impairs circulation to genitals. Alcohol: Too much alcohol lowers sexual response. Caffeine: Excess caffeine can erode levels of testosterone, which is vital for driving desire. Sources: Laurie Steelsmith, ND, and research studies

Nature’s Libido-Enhancers L-arginine: Boosts blood flow to sexual organs. Can be taken in supplement form or applied topically. Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng): Considered a sexual tonic in Chinese medicine for its ability to stabilize sexual energy over time; also used to address vaginal dryness. Epimedium (horny goat weed): Said to stimulate nerves in genitals, support adrenal glands and boost levels of feel-good brain chemicals. Phenylethylamine: Sometimes referred to as the “romance chemical”, this stimulant and mood elevator is naturally released in the brain when we have an orgasm, exercise or eat chocolate; also available in supplement form. Maca: A Peruvian root used for centuries in that country to promote sexual energy, Maca is said to boost production of libido-boosting hormones. Source: Laurie Steelsmith, ND

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Nine in 10 North Americans may be iodine deficient. ~ Dr. Robert Thompson

Solutions for a Sluggish Thyroid Keying in on Iodine by Kathleen Barnes

t seems that a common mineral supplement that costs just pennies per day can stimulate an underactive thyroid, restore metabolism to normal levels, curb excess appetite, banish fatigue and generally improve everyone’s health. Mounting scientific evidence shows that iodine may be an answer to many such health woes, especially for women. “The thyroid acts as a throttle, the gas pedal for all metabolic functions in the human body,” says Dr. Richard Shames, of San Rafael, California, author of Thyroid Mind Power. If the thyroid is a driving force of human physiology, then iodine is its key fuel, says Dr. Robert Thompson, of Soldotna, Alaska, author of What Doctors Fail to Tell You About Iodine & Your Thyroid. “Every single cell in your body depends on thyroid hormone, and the thyroid depends on iodine for proper functioning.” “Without sufficient thyroid hormone, we have low energy, slower metabolism, lower immunity to illness and impaired repair and maintenance of bones and joints,” explains Shames. After testing thousands of patients in his practice, Thompson estimates that 90 percent of North Americans are iodine deficient, citing what he calls

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“epidemic proportions” of hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) with symptoms comprising obesity, fatigue, brain fog, irregular or absent menstrual periods, hair loss and heat and cold intolerance.

Major Culprits

Estrogen: Hypothyroidism is overwhelmingly a women’s disease, with women five to eight times more likely to suffer from it than men, according to the American Thyroid Association. “Estrogen inhibits the body’s natural ability to absorb and utilize iodine,” says Dr. Jorge Flechas, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, who specializes in thyroid disorders. “We find three periods in life when women need more iodine: at puberty and during both pregnancy and perimenopause or menopause. It’s because estrogen levels tend to fluctuate wildly at those times, neutralizing the ability of iodine gained through select foods to balance thyroid and other hormones.” Flechas prescribes iodine supplements for most women at all three stages of life. Toxic halogens: Iodine belongs to a group of halogens that includes chlorine, bromine and fluorine, three chemicals that are both toxic to the

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human body and block its ability to absorb iodine, explains Thompson. “They’re everywhere, in our air, water and food. It’s nearly impossible to avoid them,” reports Shames, a longtime advocate in the movement against the common practice of adding fluoride (a derivative of fluorine) and chlorine to municipal water. Fluoride is also added to many brands of toothpaste. Bromide is part of almost all commercial flour and flour products, as well as soft drinks. Shames offers an historic insight. “Fluoride was once used to slow down an overactive thyroid, as recommended by the physicians’ bible, the Merck Manuals. Now we’re putting it in the water supply and wondering why we have a mushrooming epidemic of low thyroid incidence.” Food: “So-called ‘iodized’ salt doesn’t contain much usable iodine, and neither does pink Himalyan sea salt,” Shames cautions. We’ve known that our soil is deficient in essential minerals such as iodine since at least 1936, when a special U.S. Senate report concluded that our soil was already severely depleted. “This simply means that when we grow produce, the plants cannot extract these vital nutrients from the soil for us—including iodine—if those nutrients aren’t there in the first place,” says Thompson. If anything, he adds, U.S. soils have become even more sterile in the 80 years since the report and, “Factory farming and the use of genetically modified (GMO) crops, Roundup herbicide and synthetic chemical fertilizers have undoubtedly worsened the situation.”

Sources of Iodine

It’s difficult to include sufficient natural iodine in our daily diet unless we follow a Japanese-style diet that includes lots of seaweed and saltwater fish, says Shames. Other food sources are shellfish, turkey, cheese, yogurt, milk, eggs, legumes, cranberries and strawberries. There is little agreement about the optimal levels of iodine people need.

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Thyroid Toxins to Avoid Fluorine/fluoride Fluoridated toothpaste Unfiltered municipal drinking water Some bottled teas Teflon pans Mechanically deboned chicken Chlorine/chloride Virtually all municipal water Swimming pools, spas Poultry chilled in chlorinated water to kill bacteria Chlorine bleaches and other conventional household cleaners Bromine/bromide Flour and flour products, except those labeled “unbrominated” Soft drinks Pesticides with methyl bromide Plastics Fire retardants in children’s nightwear and some furniture Spa disinfectants Source: What Doctors Fail to Tell You About Iodine & Your Thyroid, by Dr. Robert Thompson. The U.S. Department of Agriculture maintains that we need 150 micrograms a day, but iodine advocates are quick to point out that a person eating a typical Japanese diet (where hypothyroidism, or low thyroid activity, is rare) ingests 12.5 milligrams of iodine each day—83 times the amount recommended by the government. Shames recommends getting an iodine lab test (available without a prescription at CanaryClub.org) to determine exact needs. Thompson recommends potassium iodide and sodium iodide supplements for thyroid health.

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Christie Brinkley Shares Her Secrets to Lasting Beauty by Gerry Strauss

Why did you become a vegetarian at age 14? When I was 13, I picked up a book from the nightstand in my parents’ bedroom called Miami and the Siege of Chicago by Norman Mailer. I happened to open to a page with a highly graphic description of Midwest slaughterhouses. What I read turned my stomach because I loved animals and wanted no part in this inhumane system. I swore at that moment I would never eat another piece of meat and have not done so since. For the past 49 years I have enjoyed the resulting good karma in the form of healthful benefits from avoiding the antibiotics, growth hormones and fats associated with a carnivorous diet.

How much of anti-aging do you believe is tied to mental and emotional health? Growing old gracefully is all about the positive energy that you use to power through your day and project to others. Happiness is a youthful quality and a smile is always our best accessory; it’s also been proven to release feel-good endorphins. When you take good care of yourself by eating right and exercising, you naturally feel better about yourself. If we’re feeling down, stressed or depressed, we’re tempted to eliminate exercise, which is the very thing that could lift us up and make us feel better. The more we move, the merrier we are.

Why She Still Looks Terrific After 40 Years as a Model

upermodel extraordinaire Christie Brinkley looks as amazing in her 60s as she did when she first graced the cover of Sports Illustrated nearly 40 years ago. In a new book, Timeless Beauty, Brinkley reveals her anti-aging secrets, many of which involve reliance on healthful foods, a positive attitude, exercise and good skin care. Much of what she’s learned is reflected in her line of Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare. Here, she shares some highlights of how she keeps her mind and body healthy.

seafood. I’m lucky that as a model, my career has naturally kept me aware of the amount of sugar I consume, limiting its effects on skin and overall health as well as weight.

Was it tougher to maintain your natural standards as your career became filled with travel and tight schedules? After I first became a vegetarian kid living at home, I soon convinced my family to go vegetarian, too. I read a lot of books to learn how to replace meat protein with healthier choices. Through the early years, as I continued to learn about options, I tried many kinds of vegetarian, macrobiotic and vegan approaches. Once I started modeling in seashore locations, it seemed natural to me to add bits of fresh fish and some dairy; so for the most part I have been a lacto ichthyo variation of vegetarian. I raised my children as vegetarians, and recently my daughter, Sailor, and I took the next step to become mostly vegan. I allow myself a little mozzarella and an occasional salmon dish when my body is craving it, because I think we need to listen to what our body needs. After the environmental disasters of the BP oil spill in the Gulf, made worse by toxic dispersants, and the Fukushima nuclear plant meltdown that pumped radioactive isotopes into the Pacific, I am extra-cautious about the salmon I choose and don’t eat other

Because you also recognize the importance of treating the body well from the outside as well as from the inside, what other practices do you apply? With everything we know about how the sun can damage our skin, it’s crucial to use a moisturizer with a broad ultraviolet spectrum blocker of both UVA and UVB rays to prevent wrinkles and hyperpigmented spots. I created my own skin care line that offers an SPF 30 broad-spectrum moisturizer that also defends against infrared rays [IR], which represent more than half of the sun’s damaging rays that reach Earth. IR emissions also come from manmade objects such as computers and cell phones. Beyond that, I wanted a product that takes advantage of our body’s own circadian rhythms, using special peptides that help the body build collagen and elastin as we sleep and repair. Using a gentle exfoliating scrub is also key, a step many people overlook; I’ve included it in my daily skin care routine for 30 years. Gerry Strauss is a freelance writer in Hamilton, NJ. Connect at GerryStrauss@aol.com.

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May 2016

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ach American discards an average of 4.4 pounds of personal garbage a day according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Half of what we toss can be recycled. A yard sale can both clear out the clutter and keep reusable items in circulation.

Assemble Merchandise

In assembling merchandise from all around the house, make it a family affair, with everyone contributing things to consider together. Before putting any item in the “keep” pile, ask: How long have I lived with this? How often did I need it? How often will I use it now and in the future? Check with neighbors and friends to see if they want to join in a multifamily sale likely to draw more potential buyers.

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Getting the word out is essential. Place a yard sale listing in a local newspaper, either for free or a small fee. Free online posting is available at Craigslist.org and GarageSaleHunter.com. Also, post flyers (on recycled paper) seven to 10 days before the sale along busy streets in the community.

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On the event day, make sure that large, bright signs in the neighborhood lead buyers to the sale. Reuse cardboard from old boxes to save money and recycle signs and flyers afterwards. Cindy Skrzynecki, of Minneapolis, who has monitored the phenomenon, notes, “Shoppers tend to equate the size of a sign with the size of a sale, so a few large, well-placed signs may draw more people to you than several smaller signs.” Skrzynecki says that holiday weekends or weekends that coincide with popular local events are excellent because, “You’ll provide a fun activity for people that stay in town.”

Set Up

How items are displayed is important. Here’s how to make old stuff as attractive as possible to buyers. The cleaner the better. Make sure all items are presentable. Make items visible. Arrange a display that’s catchy and organized. Use tabletops and bookcases; even improvised surfaces can work, such as plywood atop buckets. Show clothing effectively. Hangers are better than folded piles that get messy.

Does this thing work? Have an extension cord handy so people can test electrical devices, and provide a measuring tape for furniture and other large items. Have batteries on hand for testing items like flashlights or electronic games. Label things that don’t work and price accordingly for those that know how to fix things or strip parts. Ensure the price is right. All items should be clearly priced via a small sticker; buyers quickly tire of asking and sellers may not recall earlier answers. For multiple sellers, use a different colored sticker for each, remove the stickers as items sell, and use the totals from the stickers to divide profits at day’s end. Use creative labeling. Provide buyers with uses for odd items. Sunny Wicka, author of Garage Sale Shopper, says, “Sales can be made solely by suggesting a novel use.” Also spark the shopper’s imagination by combining art supplies—like old magazines, papers, markers, paints and knickknacks—on a table labeled “Great for Art!” or group household items, crates and blankets labeled “Going Away to College?” Prepare for early birds. Yard sale pros arrive early to scour sales for the best deals. Be prepared to bargain or else make it clear that prices are fixed via a few friendly signs. After the initial rush, consider accepting bargain offers. During the final hour, consider cutting prices in half.

Ready, Set, Sell

Where to Unload the Unsold

Summer and early fall are good times for yard sales. Make it exceptional, a place where people will have fun and want to hang around (more browsing time often means more purchases). Play upbeat music, set up a children’s play area and maybe a kids’ lemonade stand as cool drinks help keep shoppers refreshed and cheerful. Consider sharing the fruits of family hobbies such as homemade items, plant cuttings or herbs in hand-painted clay pots and cut flowers. Shoppers appreciate such personal touches.

Electronics Industries Alliance Environment Consumer Education Initiative—Many organizations will refurbish and donate used electronics to charities and nonprofits that can use them. Those that recycle ancient or broken equipment can be found at ECyclingCentral.com. ExcessAccess.org—This service matches business and household item donations with the wish lists of nonprofits that provide pick-ups.

Arrange for the Aftermath

Arrange a charity donation pick-up beforehand to truck away leftover items. The Salvation Army and Vietnam Veterans of America regularly move still useful items into welcoming homes. For those that enjoy throwing yard sales, consider organizing charity yard sales in the community. Engage a local place of worship, neighborhood association or school to help people recycle their old stuff while also raising funds for worthy causes.

Goodwill Industries—Check the yellow pages or Goodwill.org to find a nearby donation site and store; 85 percent of profits support employment services. The Salvation Army—Check the yellow pages or SalvationArmyUSA.org to find the organization’s nearest donation site (by zip code) or schedule a pickup (click Ways You Can Help); 100 percent of profits from sales fund its service programs. Vietnam Veterans of America—Pickups usually can be scheduled the same week; accepts a full range of household items for use by veterans’ families (PickUpPlease.org).

Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist is a frequent contributor to Green American magazine (GreenAmerica.org), from which this was adapted. For more tips, visit YardSaleQueen.com/yardsale.htm.

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hile most American pets live on easy street, with meals, treats, exercise outings and affection provided, the good life also poses challenges—dogs and cats can get stressed. “Basic stress is fearbased. Separation or isolation anxiety requires in-depth training,” says JennaLee Gallicchio, a certified separation anxiety trainer who uses scientific and hands-off techniques at her All Stars Dog Training, in Bedminster, New Jersey. She authors a bestselling series that was launched with The Secret to Getting Your Dog to Do What You Want. A drug like Reconcile, the pet version of Prozac, looks like a quick fix, but can bring many harmful side effects. Laurel Braitman, Ph.D., of Sausalito, California, bestselling author of Animal Madness: How Anxious Dogs, Compulsive Parrots, and Elephants in Recovery Help Us Understand Ourselves, estimates that 70 million U.S. dogs are given the same drugs their humans use for anxiety or depression. Considering the potential dangers, such drugs should only be used briefly as a last resort with veterinary supervision to ensure the proper dosage based on age, size and temperament. There are more natural and safer alternatives.

Common Stressors

Dogs hear sounds at four times the distance we do; cats hear even better. Thunderstorms, fireworks, traffic, TV, music and children can unnerve them.

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Add in a new home, baby, another pet or anticipation of car rides associated with fear of the veterinarian and even normally mellow pets can get upset. Irregular work hours undermine established routines. Pet or human health issues, plus household drama, add special reasons to fret. Pets separated from their litters too early can experience anxiety as adults.

Stress Less Strategies

“Let your dog have a space where he can retreat when he’s had enough,” advises Dr. Carol Osborne, owner of Ohio’s Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center & Pet Clinic. She recommends Bach’s Five Flower Formula, diluted chamomile essential oil or a pet-safe tincture of the Chinese herb skullcap for additional relief. Dogs like routine. “Regular exercise helps, including two, 20-minute daily walks. A tired pet is a happy pet,” Osborne says. “Walks can eliminate stress and anxiety by 50 percent for you both.” “Cats need exercise that mimics hunting; cats stare and plan, stalk or chase, pounce and grab,” says Marci Koski, certified by the Animal Behavior Institute and owner of Feline Behavior Solutions, in Vancouver, Washington. “An indoor cat’s prey drive can be met with interactive toys.” A place to climb or hide and a window with a view will help as will periodic playtime catching moving toys; with nothing to catch, a laser

pointer’s red dots are frustrating for a cat and a potential danger to its eyes. “Two of my large dogs were anxious during a three-day power outage,” says Kimberly Gauthier, a dog nutrition blogger at KeepTheTailWagging.com, in Marysville, Washington. “I add Ewegurt, a sheep’s milk yogurt, to their food to calm them when needed.” Clicker training rewards desired behaviors. “Ralphie, an Italian greyhound mix, was protective, but also fearful; before going outside, we’d practice sit, stay and come using a click/treat. Now he sees other dogs without reacting,” relates Katrina Wilhelm, a naturopathic physician and owner of DrKatrinaWilhelm.com, in Lake Oswego, Oregon. It works when someone knocks on the door, too. Soothing music covers the sounds of storms and fireworks, counsels Lisa Spector, an award-winning concert pianist in

Getting kitty into her carrier to go to the vet isn’t always easy. London’s Simon Tofield, animator and cartoonist for Simon’s Cats videos and books, suggests making the crate comfy and leaving it out so the cat gets used to it; keeping it out of reach of curious dogs at the vet’s office; and only opening it upon arrival in the exam room. His local vet staff explains more at Tinyurl. com/CatVetProtocol.

Signs of Pet Stress Aggression toward people or other animals Digestive problems Excessive barking/meowing Forgetful of housetraining Increased sleep Isolation Loss of appetite Pacing Pulling out fur

New View

Half Moon Bay, California, who creates the Through a Dog’s Ear clinically tested music series to relieve pet anxiety, inclusive of cats. “Although many holistic animal lovers want natural stress relievers, few think of auditory options,” she says.

“Stressors for dogs and cats are different. As a veterinarian, I explain situations from the animal’s perspective,” says Jennifer Quammen, with the Grants Lick Veterinary Hospital, in Butler, Kentucky. “I say, ‘From the cat’s point of view…’ As the animal advocate, I feel it’s my professional obligation.” “We bring pets into our world and expect them to adjust. Dogs, in particular, try so hard,” says Spector. They need our attention, shared activities and most of all, our understanding. Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

A Few Drops of Detoxified Iodine Can Change Your Life Give Your Body the Natural Boost it Needs Causes of Iodine Deficiency The Hidden Deficiency { The Best I Ever Felt }

Radiation

Almost everyone is routinely exposed to iodine-depleting radiation

Low-Sodium Diets

Overuse of zero-nutrient salt substitutes in foods leads to iodine depletion

Iodized Table Salt

Iodized salt may slowly lose its iodine content by exposure to air

Bromine

A toxic chemical found in baked goods overrides iodine's ability to aid thyroid

Iodine-Depleted Soil Poor farming techniques have led to declined levels of iodine in soil

Having the proper amount of iodine in our system at all times is critical to overall health, yet the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that iodine deficiency is increasing drastically in light of an increasingly anemic national diet of unpronounceable additives and secret, unlabeled ingredients. This deficit now affects nearly three-quarters of the population.

A Growing Epidemic

Symptoms range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and skin and hair problems. This lack of essential iodine can also cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke. Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers; and in children, intellectual disability, deafness, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University and the French National Academy of Medicine.

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natural awakenings

May 2016

consciouseating

Small Shifts Can Drop Pounds and Gain Health

pounds in two weeks,” she says, “and I didn’t feel like I was on a diet.” Eating a big salad for lunch is a habit that author Victoria Moran, host of the award-winning Main Street Vegan online radio show, has adopted in her New York City home. She fills a big bowl with leafy greens, in-season vegetables, avocado and a light dressing. “This will set you up for the rest of the day,” says Moran. Pam Anderson, a mainstream food blogger in Darien, Connecticut, agrees. Six years ago, she lost 50 pounds and credits having a big green salad for lunch—one of her many small food habit changes—with helping her maintain a healthy weight, despite frequently testing and sampling recipes.

by Judith Fertig

Food Thought Habits

How to Reboot Your Eating Habits

ur food habits are often just that—mindless, repetitious eating behaviors. Some serve us well; others, not so much. Natural Awakenings asked experts to serve up many doable small changes that can add up to big shifts. According to Brian Wansink, Ph.D., the John S. Dyson professor of marketing at Cornell University and author of Mindless Eating, changing just one lifestyle habit can eliminate two or more pounds each week. By changing up to three habits, we may lose more weight. At a minimum, we will likely improve the quality of the food we eat overall.

Buying Behaviors

Wansink advises that having the only food on our kitchen counter be fruit encourages healthy snacking. At work, he suggests lunching away from our desk to discourage mindless eating. At restaurants, order half-size entrees, and then add a maximum of two items, such as soup and bread, salad and side dish or an appetizer and dessert. He recommends using a food shopping strategy to fill the cart with better food. With hunger sated first, chew on a natural gum while shopping; it discourages buying junk food. Secondly, habitually fill the front of the cart with produce. “We eat what we see,” he says. 26

Tennessee Valley

Food Choices

Consider starting the day with a new coffee habit. Dave Asprey, of Los Angeles, author of The Bulletproof Diet, uses organic coffee, brews with filtered water and blends the hot coffee with a pat of unsalted, grass-fed butter, a fat high in vitamins and omega-3 essential fatty acids, and a small spoonful of a coconut oil that doesn’t congeal at room temperature. Unlike a drive-through latte with sugar and carbohydrates, he maintains that this type of coffee, “makes you feel energized, focused and full for hours.” Asprey takes a biohacker’s approach to natural biology-based ways to maximize physical and mental performance. New York City writer Chris Gayomali tried Asprey’s recipe for two weeks. Although it didn’t curb his appetite, he says he felt more alert and “ready for life.” Upgrading the foods we love is also possible, says David Wann, of Golden, Colorado, author of Simple Prosperity. “Too often, we economize on food when we should be buying the best quality, freshest organic food we can,” he says. Rebecca Miller, who lives near Kansas City, Missouri, took Wann’s advice and cut costs in other ways instead. To her delight, she found that the fresher, better-tasting food prompted her to eat less, but eat better. “I lost seven

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Doing too much for other people and not enough for ourselves can make our internal voice whisper, “I need comfort,” a thought that can generate overeating. In The Perfect Recipe for Losing Weight and Eating Great, Anderson suggests we ask ourselves what other triggers are prompting poor food habits. Upon reflection, we can prioritize emotional and physical health with planned, smaller, varied, healthy, delicious meals; it’s a habit that works for her. Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D., a psychologist in Lake Forest, Illinois, and bestselling author of Better Than Perfect, assures, “If we fall off the healthy eating wagon, it’s not failure, it’s data.” She believes reaching for the chocolate chip cookies in the vending machine after a stressful morning should be viewed from a scientific standpoint, not via our inner finger-pointing judge. “What are the factors that influenced our decision: stress, hunger or a desire for distraction? That’s great information,” says Lombardo. She proposes that we can then prepare to counter a future snack attack with handy healthy bites, a mindfulness break, a quick walk outside or other naturally healthful stress-relievers. Changing our food habits, one at a time, can help us live better going forward. Judith Fertig is the author of awardwinning cookbooks and blogs at AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Picture Your Future Creating a Vision Board Makes Dreams Real by Jayne Morris

ision boards, a powerful tool for transformation, comprise a collage of pictures, phrases, poems and quotes that visually represent what we would like to experience more of in life. Building one works to uncover hidden desires and inner guidance that help clarify the details of a roadmap to our future. Anyone can create one in a few hours. The layout may be intuitive, placing pieces where feelings direct; circles within circles like a mandala; or in titled, pie-shaped segments arranged in the form of a wheel. Board basics: Choose a large piece of poster board, corkboard or canvas the size of an unfolded newspaper. Gather pens, scissors, glue or pins, sticky tape and a current selfie. Gather 10 to 20 magazines ranging from women’s and men’s fashion, health and fitness to hobbies, house and garden and travel, including animals representing specific character traits. Pick topics that resonate, uplift and inspire, energize or bring relaxation. Beauty salons, libraries and community centers like to clear out old issues; an alternative is to assemble images by using a computer. Prepare a space: Find a quiet, relaxing spot, free of disturbances and distractions. Mindset magic: Let go of ought-tos, shoulds and musts. Rest assured that feeling the desire to be good, to do good or have something good in our life means we can make it happen, even if we do not yet know how. Flick, snip and stick: Have fun seeing what jumps out and catches your attention while riffling through the magazine pages. Clip and place these images in a pile, and then sort out those that feel really right.

A vision board clarifies our deepest desires.

Arrange: Experiment with the positioning and relationships of words and images until it feels good. Take a photograph as a reference. Affix pieces either so they can be repositioned or permanent, leaving spaces to symbolize an openness to receiving more ideas. Purpose Statement: Play with words that describe desired values and qualities to eventually shape an inspiring affirmation representing cherished personal aspirations for the year ahead. Place this next to the selfie and other key personal photos in the center of the board and reinforce its verity by daily repeating it. Pride of place: Prominently display the board where it will be visible throughout the day. The more time we spend with our board, the more movement we’ll make toward our Replaces Previ goals and the faster they’ll become our reality. Activate: Sit with the board and connect with its opportunities. Visualize being, doing, having and experiencing everything shown, as if they are already an intimate part of daily life. This living, breathing idea grows with us, and a companion gratitude journal can support us in acknowledging our progress.

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inspiration

Jayne Morris is the author of Burnout to Brilliance: Strategies for Sustainable Success, from which this was adapted. Learn more at JayneMorris.com.

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MAD2562708731-A natural awakenings

May 2016

calendarofevents

$65). The Dream Maker, 4004 Triana Blvd SW, Huntsville. 256-348-7763. Italk2mk@gmail.com. Facebook.com/LightWorkersCelebration.

Email Editor@Natvalley.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

Lecture: Chinese Medicine and Seasonal Influences in Health – 1-6pm. Governing/Conception Vessels: Embryologic Development. Winter: Kidney/Bladder. Presenters: Kim Susor, LMT, LAc and Caroline Choppa, MSPT. $60. The Yoga Center, 500 Pratt Ave NE, Huntsville. Register: 256-924-0881 or Caroline@TrueNorthptwellness.com.

MONDAY, MAY 2 Healthy Cooking Class with Dana Sims – 6:308:30 (May 2, 9 and 16). Learn how to buy and prepare natural, anti-inflammatory foods to rejuvenate the body. Taught by Dana Sims, plant-based nutritional counselor and Certified Wholistic Rejuvenist. $75. Alabama Holistic Health, 204 Lowe Ave, Ste 3, Huntsville. 256-801-9162. Head2ToeChange.net.

FRIDAY, MAY 27 12th Annual Cigar Box Guitar Festival – 6-9pm (Fri), 12-9pm (Sat). The world’s longest running Cigar Box Guitar festival, celebrating all aspects of Cigar Box Guitar folk culture. Enjoy music, engaging demonstrations and hands on workshops, folk art, vendors, food trucks and more. Free. Lowe Mill, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4 Gravitational Waves: The Holy Grail of Astronomy – 6pm. Dr. Tyson Littenberg of UAH will be speaking about gravitational waves, what they are and what it means that they are confirmed, and about his role on the LIGO team that finally proved Einstein correct. Free. Huntsville Main Library, 915 Monroe St.

FRIDAY, MAY 6 Concert on the Dock: The Bear and The Bride – 6-9pm. An indie-rock collective from Muscle Shoals that follows the genre defying rock n’ roll similarities found in the music of Led Zeppelin and Jack White. Free with $2 for parking. Lowe Mill East Dock, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville. 256-533-0399.

SATURDAY, MAY 7 Looking for Herps at Matthews Preserve in Limestone County – 9-4pm. (1 mile / Easy to moderate). Andrew Cantrell will help us discover who or what lives along beautiful Limestone Creek. Matthews Preserve is a natural botanical garden so you won’t want to miss this one. Directions: LandTrustNAL.org. Huntsville Herb Society Herb Fest – 10am-1pm. Learn about herbs and spend time in the Garden’s beautiful Herb Garden. Herb-themed appetizer and drink samples. Free plants. Herb-related items for sale. Huntsville Botanical Garden, 4747 Bob Wallace Ave. 256-830-4447.

FRIDAY, MAY 13 Concert on the Dock: Steel City Jug Slammers – 6-9pm. A group of young musicians playing delta blues on traditional and homemade instruments. Free with $2 for parking. Lowe Mill East Dock, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville. 256-533-0399. Essential Oils at the Garden – 6-7:30pm. Essential Oils Expert Sol Persson will share how to use Essential Oils and their many benefits. Make a chemical-free lotion with the oils and a chemicalfree mosquito/bug repellent to take home. Members $30 Non-members $35. Huntsville Botanical Garden, 4747 Bob Wallace Ave. 256-830-4447. Eckankar on TV: Lessons and Blessings – 7:308pm. Inspiring stories and insights from Harold Klemp, spiritual leader and acclaimed author of more than sixty books on Eckankar. Learn about your relationship with the Law of Cause and Effect. Free. WOW (Knology) Cable Channel 11. 256-5341751. Eck-Alabama.org. First Quarter Moon Hike on Wade Mountain – 8pm. (2.5 / Moderate to difficult). If the moonlight

Tennessee Valley

cooperates you’ll enjoy Wade Mountain in a whole “new light.” If it’s very overcast, this hike will be cancelled. Optional Dutch treat dinner at Olive Garden at 6pm. Hike leader: Doug Horacek. Directions: LandTrustNAL.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 14 The Whispering Heart Grand Opening – 10am3pm. Services include Infared Sauna with Himalayan Salt Bricks, In Light Wellness System, and BioMat. Essential oils, Aromatherapy jewelry and Himalayan Salt products for sale. Two Healing Touch Practitioners will be available. The Whispering Heart, 1221 13th Ave SE, Decatur, 35601. 256-822-1108.

Concert on the Dock: Seminole Strut – 6-9pm. Six Huntsville natives who have been influenced by a variety of different music styles forge a unique sound with a modern touch of raw rock and soul music. Free with $2 for parking. Lowe Mill East Dock, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville. 256-533-0399.

SATURDAY, MAY 28 Lost Sink Falls on Keel Mountain – 10am. (2.5 hours / Moderate to difficult). Explore this beautiful property protected by The Nature Conservancy in Alabama. The Land Trust manages the trails in partnership with TNC. Doug Horacek will lead the 1.3-mile hike to Lost Sink Falls. Directions: LandTrustNAL.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 29

Center of Spiritual Living Grand Auction – 6:30pm. A fun event offering many wonderful items and services. Bring your friends, all are welcome. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg, Huntsville. 256-698-9027. Remeji3491@gmail.com.

Guest Speaker, Rev. Karen Lankford – 11am. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. UnityOnTheMountain.org. 256-536-2271.

35th Annual Black Maria Film Festival – 7-9pm. Diverse short films—narrative, experimental, animation, and documentary—including those which address issues and struggles within contemporary society such as the environment, public health, race and class, family, sustainability, and much more. $10. Flying Monkey Arts Theater, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville.

plan ahead

FRIDAY, MAY 20 Concert on the Dock: The Old Paints – 6-9pm. The Old Paints is a trio from Birmingham featuring smart songwriting, gorgeous vocals and a real good time, bringing energy and dynamic entertainment to the stage. Free with $2 for parking. Lowe Mill East Dock, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville. 256-533-0399.

SATURDAY, MAY 21 Friends of the Bailey Cove Library Book Sale – 9am-4:30pm (Sat), 1pm-4:30pm (Sun). Great bargains on books, music, and DVDs. Almost everything is 25¢. Free. Bailey Cove Library, 1409 Weatherly Plaza SE, Huntsville. 256-881-0257. Hmcpl.org/bcove. Light Worker’s Celebration – 10am-5pm. A gathering to celebrate the light within all beings. Educational lectures, vendors with unique handmade items, intuitive readings, aura photography, spirit portraits, food truck. $5 admission, readings $25 each (3 for

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SATURDAY, JUNE 11 Lecture: Chinese Medicine and Seasonal Influences in Health – 1-6pm. Spring: Liver/Gallbladder. Summer: Heart/Small Intestines. Presenters: Kim Susor, LMT, LAc and Caroline Choppa, MSPT. $60. Register: 256-924-0881 or Caroline@True Northptwellness.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 LOCC Light Festival – 10am-6pm. Unique Vendors and Artists, Intuitive Readers, Free Speakers with paid admission, John of God Crystal Healing Bed, food for sale. Admission $5. Light of Christ Center, 4208 Holmes Ave, Huntsville. Info: Rev. Donell Koch at Revdkoch@comcast.net or 256653-0127. LightOfChristCenter.org. Facebook.com/ LightofChristCenter.

SATURDAY, JUNE 25 Lecture: Chinese Medicine and Seasonal Influences in Health – 1-6pm. Late Summer: Stomach/ Spleen/Lymph. Fall: Lung/Large Intestines. Presenters: Kim Susor, LMT, LAc and Caroline Choppa, MSPT. $60. Register: 256-924-0881 or Caroline@ TrueNorthptwellness.com.

ongoingevents

Youth Group – 6:30-7:30pm. 10 years old and up. Snack provided. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. 256-536-2271. UnityOnTheMountain.org.

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friday

sunday

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.

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. Revealing Service – 9:45am. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-8838596. CSL-Huntsville.org.

saturday

Celebration Service – 10:30am. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-8838596. CSL-Huntsville.org. Unity Church on the Mountain Worship Service – 11am, with Adult Discussion at 9:30am. Children’s Sunday School ages 4-9 and Nursery Care during church service. Unity is a positive path for spiritual living. Rev. Carol Landry. 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. UnityOnTheMountain.org. 1-Hour Mystery School – 11am. A different service each week including ritual, music, and a message in an open, loving environment. Light of Christ Center, 4208 Holmes Ave, Huntsville. 256-895-0255. LightOfChristCenter.org. A Course In Miracles: Integrating the Lessons Through Heart Centered Listening – 4-5:30pm. For students of ACIM daily lessons (workbook) or text. Donations accepted. Healing Arts Center, 525 Fountain Row, Huntsville. RevWandaGail@ gmail.com.

monday Acupuncture Happy Hour – 4-6pm, Mondays and Thursdays. A 30-minute ear acupuncture treatment that will de-stress, detox, relax and re-energize you. No appointment necessary. $25. Alabama Holistic Health, 204 Lowe Ave SE, Ste 3, Huntsville. 256801-9162. ALHolisticHealth.com. Prenatal Yoga – 5:15-6:15pm. Perfect for pregnant and new moms, this 60-minute class builds strength and endurance, increases flexibility, and helps the mother-to-be prepare for birth. Taught by Marcy Evans RN, BSN. The Yoga Center of Huntsville, 500 E Pratt Ave. YogaCenterOfHuntsville.com.

tuesday Latham Farmers Market – 3-6pm, Tuesdays starting May 3. Buy from farmers who sell the fruit, vegetables, meat, and poultry grown on their own farms. Latham United Methodist Church, 109 Weatherly Rd SE, Huntsville. LathamFarmersMarket.com. Meditation – 6pm. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596. CSLHuntsville.org. BodyFlow – 6-7pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Yoga/Pilates/Tai Chi-based exercise class that

builds strength, tones your body and leaves you feeling centered and calm. Part of the Les Mills Fitness Program. $10/class and no contract. New participants are always welcome. Madison Ballroom, 9076 Madison Blvd, Suite E, Madison, AL. 256-461-1900. MadisonBallroom.com. Military Stress Acupuncture Clinic – 6:308:30pm, starting June 7. For active duty and veterans with Military Stress, PTSS, PTSD. Acupuncturists and massage therapists available to relieve stress or pain. Donation only. Alabama Holistic Health, 204 Lowe Ave, SE, Ste 3, Huntsville. 256-801-9162. ALHolisticHealth.com. Prayer and Meditation Hour – 7-8pm. Led by Rev. Clifford Stocking and assisted by Rebecca Oxford. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. 256-536-2271. UnityOnThe Mountain.org.

wednesday A Course in Miracles Class – 6:15-7:45pm. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. 256-536-2271. UnityOnTheMountain.org. Satsang – 6:30pm. Through group discussion and inquiry, we reveal the innate wisdom of the one presence living life as each one of us. Meditation 6pm. Led by Rev. David Leonard. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-8838596. CSL-Huntsville.org.

thursday Winchester Rd Farmers Market – 4-7pm, Thursdays starting 5/19. Local Farmers sell local fresh produce, vegetables, herbs, flowers, dairy, meats, eggs, bakery items, and much more. GracePointe Church, 2940 Winchester Rd, New Market, AL. The Greene Street Market – 4-8pm. Downtown Huntsville’s open-air market for fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers. Local produce, grass fed beef and pork, free range chickens and eggs, and more. Local artisans. Eustis Ave between Greene and Franklin Streets.

Madison City Farmers Market – 8am-12pm, beginning 4/9. Fresh, quality produce, food products, and handcrafted items, all grown or made in the Tennessee Valley. Trinity Baptist Church, 1088 Hughes Rd, Madison, Alabama 35758. 256-656-7841. Lowe Mill’s Open Air Market – 9am-1pm. Shop local farmers, artisans, and makers for your organic vegetables, handmade jams jellies and cheeses, and more. All products produced or grown within 125 miles of Lowe Mill. Free. Lowe Mill, North Parking Lot, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville. 256-533-0399. 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 for sale. Admission free. Flying Monkey Arts Center at Lowe Mill, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville. 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 (except 5/28). Huntsville ECK Center, 900 Wellman Ave NE #3 (near Five Points). 256-5341751. Eck-Alabama.org. Ballroom Dance Party – 7:30-10pm. Beginner group class 7:30-8pm, introduction to different ballroom dances each week. Practice dance party 8-10pm, for all levels of dancers. No partner needed. $10/person for group class and party. Madison Ballroom, 9076 Madison Blvd Suites C/D, Madison, AL. 256-461-1900. MadisonBallroom.com.

GOT EVENTS? GET NOTICED! Advertise in our calendar.

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month. To place listing, email content to Editor@ Natvalley.com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

HEALTH COOKWARE SALADMASTER sales and service. 256-412-4896.

natural awakenings

May 2016

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. Email Editor@Natvalley.com to request our media kit. ACUPUNCTURE ALABAMA HOLISTIC HEALTH, LLC Dr. Christina L. Berry, Ed.D., ACI, ADS 204 Lowe Ave, Suite 3, Huntsville Info@ALHolisticHealth.com 256-801-9162

A holistic approach to health and wellness, specializing in pain management, weight loss, natural detoxification, and mental health improvement. Auriculotherapy/ Ear acupuncture. Massage therapy. Reflexology. Lifestyle consulting. Diet and supplement recommendations. Hydro-colon cleanse. Ionic detox. See ad, page 23.

THE NEELEY CENTER FOR HEALTH

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

CHIROPRACTOR DR. JAMIE BUNIS, DC

Dr. Jamie’s Wellness Center 917 Merchant’s Walk, Ste A, Huntsville 256-434-7977 DrJamiesWellnessCenter.com Comprehensive chiropractic and wellness services. Applied Nutritional Analysis Testing (ANA) and nutritional counseling. Standard Process® high-grade nutritional supplements. Aromatherapy. Essential oils. Detoxification. Multiple styles of massage, including Qi-ssage. Free educational classes on many healing modalities. Located behind Whole Foods. See ad, page 24.

Tennessee Valley

COLON HYDROTHERAPY HOPE FOR LIFE COLONICS

Tina Pencola Owner/Certified Colon Hydrotherapist 10300 Bailey Cove Rd, Suite-7A Huntsville, AL 35803 256-270-8731 • 256-684-0020 Hope4LifeAL.com Tina.HopeForLife@outlook.com Our goal is to live long and live strong. Young or old, male or female, healthy or sick, will benefit from an internal cleansing. Mention this ad and get $10 off your first colonic session. See ad, page 27.

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.

ESSENTIAL OILS CINDY WILSON

Young Living Independent Distributor 256-476-6537 Cindy@AlabamaAwakenings.com Want to know why everyone is talking about essential oils? Learn more about essential oils, their uses and how to safely use them. Classes held monthly or schedule your class with friends and family. For more information call or email.

FAMILY MEDICINE MADISON FAMILY CARE

Chad Gilliam, M.M.S. PA-C 1230 Slaughter Road, Suite C, Madison, AL 256-722-0555 MadisonFamilyCare.com Madison Family Care provides medical care for patients of all ages and uniquely blends Natural and Prescription medicines together to help speed the patient’s recovery. Madison Family Care is the patient’s clinic of choice when they would like to understand how natural medicines work along with prescription drugs. See ad, page 32.

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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.

FOOT CARE SPECIALIZED NAIL CARE

1900 Flint Rd SE Decatur, AL 35601 256-476-6537 Cindy@SpecializedNailCare.com Nail care for those that need more than just a pedicure. Physicians order required for care. Care includes footbath, trimming nails, thinning of thick nails, and removal of calluses and corns. For more information call or email. See ad, page 5.

HAIR SALON CJ HAIR AND ART STUDIO

CJ Denison 105E Church St Madison, AL 35758 • 256-603-9018 Specializing in N AT U R A L Hairstyles. Cuts with Texture and Movement. Specializing in Fine Hair, Razor cuts, Men's Hair Pieces with A NATURAL Look. Specializing in Hair Color OFF the Scalp. Hair Painting. A Safer way to Color or HiLight Your Hair to Help in Decreasing the Exposure to the Scalp. HEALTHY HAIR is HAPPY HAIR. Also Original Art Work and Private Art lessons available. Call Today for YOUR Appointment.

HEALTH & FITNESS HEAD-TO-TOE TRAINING 8006 Madison Pike, Ste 5 Madison, AL • 256-772-2006 HeadToToe@knology.net Head-To-Toe.com

A Mind/Body Training Center specializing in Core Training, Corrective and Therapeutic. Offering all facets of training: group and personal. Pilates (both matwork and apparatus), Thai/yoga massage, Flowmotion, PilatEASE, CoreABS and more! Membership packages available.

HOMEOPATHIC CONSULTANT

MUSIC LESSONS

REIKI

JOAN SCOTT LOWE

VANESSA MILLER MANTIS, M.ED.

Call or email Joan Scott Lowe, Homeopathic Wellness Consultant, to determine your individual constitutional remedy, the FDA-approved nontoxic homeopathic remedy based on the totality of your mental, emotional, and physical condition, chosen according to the Law of Similars (“like heals like”). Achieve wellness and freedom from illness!

Daytime availability from 11am2:30pm. Great for homeschooled students or adults with flexible schedules. 13 years of music teaching experience, with a M a s t e r ’s i n Vo c a l M u s i c Education. Lessons cater to each individual’s needs and musical tastes, according to skill level.

1901 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. South Birmingham, AL 35209 205-871-1288 Joan@HomeopathyForWellness.com HomeopathyForWellness.com

HYPNOTHERAPY MARSHA MATHES

Certified Hypnotist 3313 Memorial Parkway, Ste 116 Huntsville, AL 35801 256-698-2151 MarshaMathes.SkinCareTherapy.net Hypnosis is a tool to assist you in countless ways to heal your past, empower your present and create your future. Hypnobirthing classes, quit smoking, weight loss, nail and lip biting, teeth grinding, insomnia, anxiety and stress relief, phobias and fears, pain relief, sports enhancement, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), current and past life regressions.

MASSAGE THERAPY RON GRAY, LMT #36

The Dream Maker 4004 Triana Blvd SW, Huntsville 256-883-8446 Over 24 years experience providing an original mix of massage therapy modalities including Polarity Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Energy Balancing, Neuromuscular, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Therapy, Reiki, and Lymphatic Drainage. Works in harmony with the body’s inner wisdom, gently guiding your session with integrity, intuition and skill. See ad, page 20.

LIGHT JOURNEY REIKI

Voice and Piano Instructor Musicology School of Music 7445 Highway 72, Madison, AL 256-585-0260 VanessaMillerstudio.com

Barbara Caioli, RM 7500 Memorial Pkwy SW, Ste 114 Huntsville AL • 256-716-8419 LightJourneyReiki.com Reiki refers to the universal life force energy that is found in everything. Reiki works through gentle, focused touch or intention for the purpose of healing and balance. Light Journey Reiki offers healings as wells as Certification Workshops. See ad, page 7.

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION JACI HOGUE

NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE ASSOCIATES Dr. Deb Gilliam, N.M.D. 1230 Slaughter Rd, Ste E, Madison, AL 256-325-0955

Dr. Deb treats a variety of health problems using natural means. She looks for why people have symptoms and treats the root cause of those symptoms. Dr. Deb is highly regarded in the integrative and natural approach to wellness. Every patent is unique, and she individualizes treatment for their optimal wellness. See ad, page 5.

NUTRITION COUNSELING & HEALTHY COOKING HEAD 2 TOE CHANGE, LLC

Dana Sims, BS, MA, Plant-Based Nutrition, Certified Wholistic Rejuvenist (CWR) 204 Lowe Ave, Suite 3, Huntsville 256-323-1265 • Head2ToeChange.net Healthy Shopping/Label Reading. Learn Foods to Avoid Pain/ Inflammation; Chemical Cuisine: Do You REALLY Know What You’re Eating? by Dr. Gloria Gilbere. Individualized meal plans prepared for people who have a specific diagnosis and require strict dietary needs.

256-656-4108 JaciHogue@gmail.com 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.

SUSAN K. JEFFREYS

Advanced Practitioner Lic.#249 Dr. Ida P. ROLF method 525 Fountain Row 256-508-3351 • RolfGuild.org Serving Huntsville since 1995 “When the body gets working appropriately, then the force of gravity can flow through. Then spontaneously, the body heals itself.” —Ida P. Rolf. See ad, page 20.

It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart. ~Rainer Maria Rilke

natural awakenings

May 2016

Age Healthier, Live Happier!

Check for the Seal to make sure your doctor is a

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MADISON FAMILY CARE and WELLNESS CENTER

Chad Gilliam, M.M.S., PA-C • Dr. Gary Adams, M.D. 1230 Slaughter Rd, Suite C • Madison, AL 35758

256-722-0555 • MadisonFamilyCare.com This coupon covers your initial hormone consultation, examination, and lab work! Mention this month’s issue of Natural Awakenings when you call to make your appointment.

FOCUS ON HAPPINESS AND ABUNDANCE In Life and Business Advertise your products and services in Natural Awakenings’

June Happiness and Balanced Man Issue Contact us at: 256-808-8044 Editor@Natvalley.com