Natural Awakenings December 2014

H E A L T H Y

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Sacred Activism

Love in Action Can Change the World

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Guilt-Free Feasting

Holiday Fare that Brings Joy to the Table December 2014

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Why Not Miracles?

Gabrielle Bernstein on Creating Happiness |

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contents 8 5 newsbriefs 8 healthbriefs 14 healingways 16 greenliving 18 consciouseating

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20 naturalpet

22 fitbody

25 wisewords 26 healthykids

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27 inspiration 28 calendar 29 classifieds 30 resourceguide

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

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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.

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.

10 SACRED ACTIVISM

Love in Action Can Change the World

10

by Judith Fertig

14 SINGING THE

WORLD AWAKE

by Tom Kenyon

16 TOXIN-FREE

BEAUTY SALONS Pure Pampering Feels Natural and Safe

by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

16

18 HAPPY FEASTING TO ALL

Tasty Rituals that Deepen the Holiday Spirit

by Lane Vail

20 PET BED-BUDDIES

Is Sleeping Together Healthy?

by Erik J. Martin

22 FIND YOUR

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FITNESS STYLE Workouts that Suit Your Personality

by Wendy Worrall Redal

25 OPENING UP

TO MIRACLES

Gabrielle Bernstein on Creating More Happiness

by April Thompson

22

26 CAN-DO KIDS

Changing Our World at Any Age

by Ellen Sabin

27 HYMN TO LIVING IN SILENCE

by Robert Rabbin

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letterfrompublisher “If consciousness is higher, life on Earth will change.”

–Tom Kenyon

contact us Publisher Tom Maples Tom@Natvalley.com 404-395-9634 Co-Publisher, Advertising Sales Cindy Wilson Cindy@Natvalley.com 256-476-6537 Design and Production Melanie Rankin Natural Awakenings in the Tennessee Valley 14 Woodland Ave. Trinity, Alabama 35673 Office: 256-340-1122 Fax: 256-217-4274 Facebook.com/natvalley

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SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $20 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

I have long subscribed to the belief that humanity as a whole is waking up to a higher vibration of consciousness. I believe that this consciousness is, largely, a collective one. Whenever I encounter what I see as evidence of the collective consciousness of humanity taking even a small step upwards, it receives my full attention.

One such example I have observed in the past year has been the widespread growth of essential oils. Essential oils, which are highly potent, distilled botanical extracts, have been in use for thousands of years, and are even found in the Bible.

But there was something about the past year, 2014, that saw a skyrocketing expansion of interest in essential oils. One major essential oil company, Young Living, reported more than doubling their sales in 2014.

The Young Living sales growth has matched what I have observed in the interest of the people around me in essential oils. Both my sister, Claire, and my partner, Cindy, became essential oil distributors in the past year. Cindy has been holding introductory classes on the uses of essential oils and giving talks to various groups. The response has been tremendous. People are interested in learning about and trying essential oils. When they do try the oils, the results are often extremely positive. Cindy became a believer when she completely eliminated her hot flashes using oils. Other oils have significantly improved her sleep. Now she carries around a whole bag of oils, such as Peace and Calm, Stress Away, Pan Away, Valor, and Thieves, to name a few.

I personally love Lavender. Lavender essential oil smells like nothing else in the world. It is a sweet floral scent that is sharp and potent, like it ought to be a flammable substance, yet deeply relaxing in effect, calming and joyously uplifting all at the same time.

Cindy thinks that the growing popularity of essential oils has to do with people like her getting out there and promoting the education about oils, and she is absolutely correct about that. She believes that if there is any part of the collective consciousness that the oils are tapping into, it is the interest in natural approaches to health and healing that avoid chemicals and toxic substances. She is right about that, too. But there is something else I have sensed in the emergent phenomenon of essential oils that I, myself, believe is happening.

I believe that the consciousness of the plants themselves is communicating with us on a higher level.

After all, the shamans of the Amazon, who use many plant medicines, will tell you that it was the plants themselves that taught them how to heal. I believe that through essential oils, plants are teaching us—all of us—at this time, on the collective consciousness level, how to use their healing gifts.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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newsbriefs Welcome to Bikram Hot Yoga in Madison

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atural Awakenings would like to welcome Bikram Hot Yoga. Bikram Hot Yoga is open to all levels and is designed to improve physical strength, flexibility, and balance. The 90-minute series features 26 hatha yoga postures and 2 breathing exercises and is practiced in a 105 degree heated room at 40% humidity. Each posture stretches and strengthens specific muscles, ligaments, and joints needed for the next posture. The Bikram method also stimulates the organs, glands and nerves, moving fresh oxygenated blood to 100% of the body, restoring all systems to a healthy working order. Bikram scientifically designed this vigorous 90-minute program to deliver total health through the balancing and strengthening of every system in the body in order to prevent illness, injury and limit the effects of aging. In addition, the series of postures taught in our classes combine skills of concentration, patience, determination and self-control, leading to increased mental clarity and reduced stress.

The Bikram Certified teachers at Bikram Hot Yoga encourage, motivate, and inspire students to do their best. They serve the Madison/Huntsville community with compassion and light and provide pure Bikram Yoga, offered by skillful, good-hearted people in a clean and nurturing environment. Each student attending classes is warmly welcomed and encouraged to grow in his or her own unique way. First time students can get one month of unlimited yoga for $50.

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Location: Bikram Hot Yoga, 8331 Madison Blvd, Suite 600, Madison. Info: 256-509-7755 or visit BikramHotYogaHuntsville.com. See ad, page 9.

Coaches and Lady Entrepreneurs who are Underpaid, Overworked and Stressed Out: Quit Your Coaching J-O-B and Build a Thriving Coaching Niche

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his is your opportunity to join a unique mentoring niche program exclusively for those who want to distinguish themselves as an expert mentor to coaches.

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Light Of Christ Center Every Sunday: A Course In Miracles Study Group

9:15am Sundays

1-Hour Mystery School 11am Sundays

Affirmations, Music, Mystery Message, Fellowship, An Open Communion Table

This Month: Christmas Party Welcome, ALL! 7pm Sat, Dec 13 Open Clearance Session 7pm Fri, Dec 19 Winter Solstice Service 11am Sun, Dec 21 Christmas Eve Service 6pm Wed, Dec 24 Our labyrinth is always open for your meditative walks.

newsbriefs Not the Same Old New Year’s Resolution

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very January 1, most people make resolutions to get fit, loss weight, become healthier. If you are one of those who are planning on making that resolution, join us on December 28 at Decatur Healing Arts. This will be out first of monthly meeting we will have to come together as a group to explore healthier options and lifestyles.

In this introductory class we will be learning about toxins that we are exposed to and how they affect our health.

We will also learn ways we can decrease these or eliminate them all together. During the class we will be discussing some points brought out in the book “Inner Transformations Using Essential Oils” by Drs. LeAnne and David Deardeuff.

This book can be purchased at LifeSciencePublishers.com.

Date: Dec 28, 2-4pm. Location: Decatur Healing Arts, 1900 Flint Rd SE, Decatur.

Info: Cindy Wilson, 256-476-6537 or Cindy@AlabamaAwakenings.com. The class is free, no RSVP required but it is appreciated.

Christmas Open House at Decatur Healing Arts

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ecatur Healing Arts offers a variety of services. They would like to invite everyone to come and see their facilities as well as meet the practitioners. Cathy Holmes Turner, LMT, specializes in deep tissue, Swedish massage, hot stone massage, and also manual lymph drainage. Sharron Bryant, LMT, specializes in Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy. Cynthia Wilson RN, BSN, CFCN, is Alabama’s first Certified Foot Care Nurse. She provides foot care in the clinic and also makes home visits for those needing more than just a pedicure. Betty Perryman is a bestselling author and inspirational speaker, and mentors women in business who are interested in growing their business.

Also available are Young Living Essential Oils and Neal Yard Remedies Organic products. Mark your calendar and plan to join us for refreshments, door prizes and learn more about our services.

Date: December 6, 10am-4pm. Location: Decatur Healing Arts, 1900 Flint Rd, Decatur, AL. Info: Cindy Wilson, 256-467-6537 or Facebook.com/DecaturHealingArts.

Spiritual Triumvirate 2014 Donell Koch—Will Hoffpauir - Nancy Pendegraph

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4208 Holmes Ave. NW

Huntsville, Alabama

256-895-0255 www.lightofchristcenter.org

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Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a wonderful new year!

Essential Oils for Pets on December 7 Natural Awakenings Green PowderTM Paleo profile dietary supplement, made with certified organic non-GMO ingredients, supplies your body with essential vitamins and minerals you might ordinarily be missing from your regular diet.

E

ssential oils are not just for people, there for pets also. There are many benefits to using essential oils for your pets but knowing which ones can sometimes be confusing. Come by Pets, Love and Happiness on December 7 from 12-2pm and learn more about different essential oils, their benefits and how to safely use essential oils with your fur babies. Receive a chart with oils and the Vita Flex points for dogs to help aide in applying the essential oils.

Learn about the importance of diluting the oils for cats and pick up a chart on how to dilute oils.

It is important that one use 100% Therapeutic Grade essential oils, so drop by and see and smell the difference.

Date: Dec 6, 10-2pm. Location: Pets, Love and Happiness, 905 Meridian St North, Huntsville. Info: Cindy Wilson, 256-476-6537 or Cindy@Alabama Awakenings.com.

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Unless we make Christmas an occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won’t make it ‘white’. ~Bing Crosby

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healthbriefs

Calcium Supplements Raise Risk of Brain Lesions

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Duke University study published in the British Journal of Nutrition this summer found that calcium supplements taken by elderly persons may increase the risk of brain lesions that are identified as hyperintensities on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scans.

The researchers studied 227 adults over the age of 60. The patients were assessed for supplemental calcium intake and received brain scans via MRI. Those taking calcium supplements had more lesions of a volume typically associated with hypertension. They noted no dose-dependent relationship between lesion size and the amount of calcium being supplemented. The scientists commented that other studies have found calcium supplementation also associated with greater risk of artery disease.

Hyperintensities are observed in normal aging, plus several neurological, psychiatric and autoimmune disorders that affect the brain. They constitute damage to brain tissue caused by restricted blood flow and have been linked to mild cognitive deficits and disturbances.

Knotweed and Hawthorn Outperform Lovastatin in Trial

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hinese researchers recently discovered that two herbal extracts may treat atherosclerosis, the hardening of the arteries, as well as or more effectively than the pharmaceutical drug Lovastatin.

Sixty-four patients with atherosclerosis of the carotid artery were studied. For six months, half the patients received 20 milligrams of Lovastatin per day, while the other half took an herbal extract combination of Japanese knotweed and hawthorn.

After six months, tests showed artery plaque thickness and inflammation were significantly lessened among both groups.

However, the herbal extract-treated group showed a greater reduction of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, a marker of risk for cardiovascular disease.

Relatively high levels of hs-CRP in otherwise healthy individuals are predictive of heart health crises even when cholesterol levels are within an acceptable range.

People with lower values have less of a risk.

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CELL PHONES AND ROUTER MICROWAVES STRESS PLANTS

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vidence of the effects of wireless technologies on human health continues to be controversial, with agreement on results remaining elusive. Now a new study published in the Journal of Plant Physiology found that humangenerated microwave pollution can potentially be stressful to plants.

Researchers from Romania’s Estonian University of Life Sciences tested three common garden plants—parsley, celery and dill weed. They exposed each to the types of microwave radiation equivalent to those produced by cell phones and wireless routers. Then these radiation-exposed plants were compared with identical plants not exposed to the radiation.

The scientists noted that the irradiated plants had thinner cell walls; smaller chloroplasts (cellular sites of photosynthesis); smaller cell mitochondria (centers of energy production); and greater emission of volatile compounds, particularly monoterpenes and green leaf volatiles, which are protective, life-promoting components of the plants’ essential oils.

The effects were stronger for the type of radiation produced by wireless routers. While essential oil production overall was increased by the frequency of the microwaves produced by cell phones, it was decreased by the frequency emitted by the routers.

Hospice Care Adds Months for Cancer Patients

Bikram Hot Yoga

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esearchers from Houston’s MD Anderson Cancer Center determined that hospice care significantly increases survival rates among patients with metastatic (stage IV) melanoma, a difficult-to-treat form of cancer that occurs when melanoma cells have spread through the lymph nodes to other parts of the body.

The study’s authors followed 862 metastatic melanoma cancer patients. Of these, 523 patients received one to three days of hospice care, 114 patients received four or more days and 225 people received no hospice care through their survival period. Those that received four or more days had an average survival period, which typically dates from the original diagnosis, of 10.2 months, while those that received none averaged 6.1 months. In addition, the end-of-life hospital costs for those receiving the most hospice visits were nearly half of what was incurred by patients not receiving hospice attention.

Hip Fractures Decrease on Weekends and Holy Days

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new study published in the Israel Medical Association Journal found that older adults are more likely to have hip fractures in the wintertime, except during weekends and on religious holidays.

The study’s authors checked the records of 2,050 patients that were at least 65 years old and had suffered a hip fracture. Analyzing the dates of each fracture revealed that significantly more of them occurred during the wintertime; the injuries corresponded directly with lower temperatures and greater rainfall.

Fewer fractures took place on the Sabbath and during weekends in general, as well as on Yom Kippur and other holy days, with the exception of Passover.

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study published in the European Journal of Cancer revealed that a mistletoe extract may lengthen life for patients with severe pancreatic cancer. German researchers tested 220 patients with advanced stage pancreatic cancer, an aggressive, often fatal disease. The patients were divided into two groups; one was given up to 10 milligrams of Viscum album (European mistletoe) three times a week for up to 12 months.

Both groups received supportive care throughout the study period.

The average length of survival for those taking the mistletoe extract, 4.8 months, was nearly twice that of the other group, 2.7 months; a survival period typically dates from the original diagnosis. Within a group considered to have a good prognosis, the survival period for those that consumed the extract, averaging 6.6 months, was more than double that of the no-extract group, which averaged 3.2 months.

contact me:

Cindy Wilson 256-476-6537 us.nyrorganic.com/shop/cindywilson

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Sacred Activism Love in Action Can Change the World

by Judith Fertig

Fe, New Mexico, that’s also reflected in his book, The Hope: A Guide to Sacred Activism. Born in India, educated at England’s Oxford University and in the religious traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity, he now resides in Melbourne, Arkansas, where he’s founder and director of the Institute for Sacred Activism. The goal of his international travel is to bring concerned people together to proactively face global crises.

Says Harvey, “Sacred activism is a fusion of two of the most powerful fires of the human psyche—the mystic’s passion for God and the activist’s passion for justice.”

Hallmarks of Spiritual Intent

“Sacred activism is the fusion of the mystic’s passion for God with the activist’s passion for justice, creating the burning sacred heart that longs to help, preserve and nurture every living thing.” ~ Andrew Harvey

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he butterfly, a universal symbol of transformation, reminds us that becoming our best selves is an ongoing process. Yet these delicate, fluttering creatures are suffering a decline, especially the vivid orange and black monarch butterflies that depend on milkweed flowers for sustenance during their migration to and from Mexico and Canada.

“When I heard about the monarch butterfly crisis, I also noticed that I had milkweed vines all along my back fence,” says Karen Adler, a Kansas City, Missouri, gardener. “In years past, I would have pulled them out because 10

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they can strangle other plants. But I talked it over with my neighbor and we agreed to let them grow. This year, we had more monarchs than ever.”

These two women might not realize it, but they had engaged in spiritual activism. They became aware of a problem, approached it with compassion, learned about the issue, realized life’s interdependence and committed themselves to positive action for a result that is good for all.

It’s a process that Andrew Harvey first described in a 2005 talk he gave at the Santuario de Guadalupe, in Santa

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The Awakening – Progressing from concerned citizen to spiritual activist is a gradual process. It may begin with an issue to which one feels called. “Our life in the world is a continual call and response,” observes Kabir Helminski, of Santa Cruz, California. He authors and translates books on the Muslim Sufi tradition, which tends to have an open relationship with other religions, and is a core faculty member of the Spiritual Paths Institute, which encourages seekers to find the sacred traditions that speak to them.

“Sometimes events are a waking dream calling for interpretation, and sometimes the heart is directly addressed from within,” says Helminski.

Compassion – Once an event moves us, prayer can be a pathway that opens our hearts to compassion, according to Jagadish Dass, of Granada Hills, California. The healer and teacher wrote The Prayer Project: The 3-Minute, 3 Times a Day Solution for World Change, which encourages involvement with something bigger than ourselves.

Dass maintains that praying for three minutes, three times a day, will help us transmute into expressing a quiet power. “As we take responsibility for our lives, a transformation occurs within,” he says. We begin to inspire others to also take up the cause of working for change and bringing more peace, joy and love to the world.

Likewise, Harvey urges each of us to make a real commitment to daily spiritual practice on the road to

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~ Carla Goldstein spiritual activism. He suggests, “Start with a short prayer that aligns you with the pure deep love that is longing to use you as its instrument in the world.” Options include prayers from many of the world’s spiritual traditions shared in Dass’ book; a free download is provided at StewardshipOfTheSoul.com.

Interconnectedness – Just as everything in the universe is connected by the simple act of being, like-minded people can connect to do good in the world. Sacred activists pursuing their own spiritual paths need to work with others, according to Harvey. “They form empowering and encouraging networks of grace—beings of like heart, brought together by passion, skill and serendipity to pool energies, triumphs, griefs, hopes and resources of all kinds. When people of like mind and heart gather together, sometimes miraculously powerful synergy can result.”

Harvey has found that groups of six to 12 people become the most efficient and productive, whether joined together through a profession (such as physicians on medical missions), a passion for animal rights or the environment, or a strong sense of social justice.

Knowledge – Knowledge, both inward- and outwardseeking, is another key to doing good for all. Carla Goldstein, JD, chief external affairs officer at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, in Rhinebeck, New York, and cofounder of its Women’s Leadership Center, used her interest in women’s empowerment issues as a springboard to spiritual activism.

“For the first 20 years of my professional life, I focused on public policy and politics,” she says. “But something was missing in the rhetoric of taking care of each other.”

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Practicing yoga and meditation and receiving support during a personal health crisis prompted what she terms “an awakening understanding of a gap between personal change and systems change.” Goldstein came to question her own “rugged individualism” versus the interconnectedness she felt when people took care of her. “Can we actually move towards integrating these two ideals?” she asked herself.

Knowledge about issues is readily available from experts and organizations that experts recommend; she observes, “The big question is: What is needed for us to be of help?”

Sometimes listening and understanding can be powerful. Under the auspices of the Omega Women’s Leadership Center, Goldstein invited women on both sides of the reproductive rights issue to meet in 2005. They had been part of the Public Conversations Project in the Boston suburb of Watertown, Massachusetts, begun after medical staff members were killed and wounded at an area women’s health clinic providing abortions in 1994.

“Women from the divided community initially came together to tell their stories,” Goldstein relates. “Over time, they developed a deep love for each other. Nobody changed their positions, but they did change how they interacted with one another.” They experienced a shift from emotional and verbal turbulence to, if not agreement, feelings of peace and understanding. Since then, the project has grown to facilitate such conversations in 38 states and 15 countries (Public Conversations.org).

Positive Action – While many thorny issues take longterm, dedicated efforts to be resolved, others only need smaller individual or collaborative actions for positive outcomes. For Mark Nepo, a New York City poet, philosopher and author of the New York Times bestseller, The Book of Awakening, kindness is the force behind positive action, no matter how modest at first.

“Kindness reveals kinship. It gives us connection to everything greater than us and everything else that is kind in the universe,” he says. “I think it’s powerfully effective, yet it’s such a small thing.”

Nepo is active in Bread for the Journey, an international nonprofit that encourages community grassroots philanthropic projects that generate micro-grants. One involved a small town in northern New Mexico that sought to improve the lives of local teenagers when the town’s elders wanted to open a youth center as a positive alternative to the drug scene. Just before the center was scheduled to open, the project ran out of money for required floodlights, so Bread for the Journey funded them and the center opened. “Within a few years, the whole culture shifted,” reports Nepo. This small contribution made a big difference to the whole community.

Once awakened and nurtured, spiritual activism can become an omnipresent part of our lives. Says Goldstein, “When you put spirit and activism together, you realize that all actions are connected to spirit. It makes you think about your duty in every instance—from how you treat people throughout your day to how you treat the environment. It becomes a satisfying way of living.”

Judith Fertig is a freelance writer from Overland Park, KS.

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olunteering provides rewarding satisfaction and progress for adults and children alike. Seniors stay involved and parents work alongside kids to experience the value of helping others.

Local places of worship often maintain a list of opportunities to serve a community through helping and healing ministries and special projects. The Red Cross is best known for supplying aid in emergency situations, but many needs are year-round (Red Cross.org). A call to city hall can steer willing participants to the right local organization. Here are other examples from around the country to spark loveinspired ideas.

meditation or restorative yoga, work the front desk, read to preschoolers and do fundraising.

People

Environment

Meals on Wheels does much more than deliver lunches to those in need (mowaa.org).

In Austin, Texas, the Healthy Options Program for the Elderly program brings a bag of groceries monthly to clients most nutritionally at risk, plus Groceries to Go volunteers shop for or with clients every two weeks. Minor safety-related home repairs are provided through the Handy Wheels project.

In Seattle, community helpers paint classrooms, install new playground equipment and donate books and supplies at the city’s public schools.

Berkley, California, YMCA volunteers teach classes like mindful

Cindy Wilson #1873782

Animals

Homeless dogs in shelters learn leash manners while participating in the Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound program at South Carolina’s Aiken County Animal Shelter. Leashes and treats are supplied to encourage volunteers to walk dogs at least once a week. It’s healthy exercise for both dogs and humans. To calculate the calorie burn, visit Tinyurl. com/WalkOffCalories. Shelter cats need socialization, too. Visits that include playtime and gentle petting make them more adoptable.

New York Cares has family projects available with no minimum age requirement (NYCares.org). Either on an ongoing or a one-day basis, volunteers improve parks, plant community gardens and refresh public spaces. Trails require refurbishing after bad weather.

Streams and waterways need a good cleanup after floods. Check with the park ranger for more information.

With a little research, volunteers can find the right activity, whatever their location, interest, age or abilities. Another good place to start is VolunteerMatch. org, which is easy to search by zip code and personal interests. A perfect opportunity to help others awaits.

256-476-6537 Cindy@AlabamaAwakenings.com

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healingways

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Article adapted from the film, Song of the New Earth

W

hen I was a Music and sound tion from every tradition, sometimes for five hours a youngster, I clearly remember are the language day. Without realizing it, reading a book, The Boy and architecture I was changing my neurophysiology.

Who Sang to the World, of the cosmos. Brain research shows although I later learned it that when we experience doesn’t exist. I read it in pure sound without language, the some other realm of consciousness and right side of the brain lights up like that’s what I became. a Christmas tree. I’d worked in brain

I sang to the world, sun, moon, research for about 13 years when, stars and all life. I sang in church and while meditating, I received new inchoirs and later took up guitar and formation about brain geometry that I piano. One day, a visitor to our house said, “You’re going to heal many people recognized as the geometry of consciousness in its relationship to sound in this world with that voice.” and emotion.

When I attended the University

I understood that if I taught this to of North Carolina, I discovered that others, I would observe rapid change neurophysiology could be used as a and improvement in brain function language to explain mystical experiand creativity, which took place when ences. The whole time I was engaged I conducted beta testing at three sites. in scientific training, I was also going One day, I was in California doing a deeper into the mysticism of the East, workshop when these sounds just came the yoga of India, Taoism of China, through me. That’s what spawned my Egyptian alchemy and Tibetan Budcurrent sound work. dhism. I was practicing every medita-

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Sound opens consciousness.

If consciousness is higher, life on Earth will change.

I become like a tuning fork to the information that is coming to me. In shamanism, this is called being the hollow reed. I step out of the way. In terms of brain frequencies, I go into an alpha state, in which I can attend to what I need to do vocally, but for that moment surrender my voice to the energy.

When I work shamanically with drums, animal spirits come through my voice, as do beings from other traditions.

I feel like a doorway, or a chauffeur looking in the back seat to see who I’m driving. I live in two diametrically opposed worlds. I’m logical in how I look at things and am fascinated by brain neurology. Then there’s this other side that’s off the charts.

I never know when the whales are going to appear. As I operate in an altered state, I can see humpbacks psychically approaching until one of them enters my energy field.

Subjectively, I become as large as a whale, at the same time I’m aware of my physical body. I have dual realities, and then the whale sounds emanate through me.

In a visionary experience on my 40th birthday, the question arose, “Will you sing the song of the new Earth?” I believe that we’re not going to survive much longer as a species if we don’t change how we are living, and that’s what my work is about. Many people are having spiritual emergences, yet we don’t, as a culture, have a place to harness its potential. What I do with groups is a type of sound healing, working collectively with the energy of a large gathering. Each person responds in ways unique to them, breathing into some inner emotion and making a sound that matches how it feels inside.

Something happens with people that attend these events. It’s about the transformation and beauty of being able to step into the unknown to commune with a knowledge and intelligence that’ll sing through my voice. Together, we’ll see what will come forward.

A major message I’ve received is that if we are to survive, we must raise the feminine out of the ashes created by millennia of cultural traditions and have the male and female meet together, not one above the other, but in equality, and with that union, create a new world.

The boy who sang to the world has grown up to sing a space that allows people to create their hopes and dreams into existence.

Psychologist and musician Tom Kenyon is trained in Ericksonian medical hypnosis and whole brain learning.

His 25 years of practicing psychotherapy led to the formation of Acoustic Brain Research to scientifically study neuropsychology and psychoacoustics. He teaches Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Egyptian high alchemy and esoteric Christianity. He has authored Brain States, many CDs and the new documentary about his journey, Song of the New Earth (SongOfTheNewEarth.com).

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December 2014

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greenliving

Toxin-Free

BEAUTY SALONS Pure Pampering Feels Natural and Safe

by Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist

W

hen clients walk into New York City’s Swing Salon, they may be surprised by what they don’t smell—the range of chemicals usually wafting around hair salons. That’s because the owners have decided to use only natural and organic products.

While many people may assume that all salon hair and body treatments are regulated and safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has no authority to require companies to test cosmetic products for safety, due to loopholes in the Toxic Substances Control Act. So, people are being exposed to dangerous toxins through salon products like nail polish, hair color processors and hair straighteners.

Be aware that while labels of overthe-counter body care products are required by law to list ingredients, with the exception of the chemical soup often hidden under the term “fragrance”,

the loophole for salon products is large.

Jamie Silberberger, with the Women’s Voices for the Earth’s National Healthy Nail & Beauty Salon Alliance, reports, “Products sold for professional use in spas and salons are not required to be labeled with ingredients.”

Fortunately, healthy alternatives are available, either by patronizing a green salon or using natural beauty treatments at home.

Hair Straighteners One salon treatment—Brazilian Blowout hair straightening—can continue to expose customers and salon workers to toxic fumes even months after application. It’s among the conventional straightening products that contain formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen.

“Exposure to formaldehyde doesn’t end with the treatment—the fumes are reactivated every time heat is applied to the hair,” says Jennifer Arce, a San Diego,

California, salon worker who became sick after applying a single Brazilian Blowout treatment. “So, when a client who’s had a Brazilian Blowout done elsewhere comes into the salon to get a haircut or color and has her hair blow-dried, flat-ironed, curled or processed under the hood dryer, the fumes that come out of her hair make me and several of my coworkers sick all over again.”

Solution: Avoid chemical hairstraightening treatments. Sign on to the Women’s Voice for the Earth letter campaign petitioning the FDA to remove Brazilian Blowout from U.S. shelves by visiting Tinyurl.com/ BanBrazilianBlowout.

Hair Dyes and Extensions About two-thirds of conventional hair dyes in the U.S. contain para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical banned for use in such products in Germany, France and Sweden. Exposure to PPD

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can cause allergic reactions ranging from skin irritation to death by anaphylactic shock, which happened to a teenager in 2010.

When Spain’s University of Santiago de Compostela researchers conducted a metastudy examining the risk of cancer among hairdressers and related workers, all reported that employees had a higher risk of cancer than the general population.

Hair extensions also warrant attention. Many adhesives used on extensions may contain 1,4 dioxane, listed as a probable carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and styrene, a neurotoxin and suspected endocrine disruptor.

Solution: Look for a clean, green salon that uses natural hair color treatments free from synthetic chemicals, ammonia or PPD. Individuals can also order nontoxic organic color kits direct from EcoColors.net.

Nail Polish When getting a manicure or pedicure, beware of the toxic trio of dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde and toluene.

Used to help nail products hold color, they’re linked to reproductive and development problems, plus dizziness and eye and lung irritation, according to the Environmental Working Group.

Facing pressure from consumer groups and salon workers, some polish companies are now producing so-called “nontoxic” nail polish, although their labels aren’t verifiable. California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control recently tested 25 nail polishes sold to salons, 12 of which claimed to be toluenefree, including

seven said to be free of the toxic trio.

The researchers found toluene in 10 of those, and one or more of the three ingredients in five out of the seven.

Solution: Customers should bring their own safe nail polish and only patronize well-ventilated salons.

Find a Green Salon Many conventional body products like shampoos and massage oils contain a litany of ingredients that add to our chemical exposure. Ask questions to ensure all of a salon’s products are nontoxic or as low in toxicity as possible.

For example, a large network of independently owned “concept salons” across America are connected with the Aveda Corporation (Aveda.com), a national leader in developing hair and body products that are free from the most dangerous ingredients. More than 90 percent of Aveda’s essential oils and 89 percent of its raw herbal ingredients are certified organic.

Also look for members of the Green Spa Network, a nationwide coalition of spas that pledge to be energy efficient and sustainable in all of their practices (GreenSpaNetwork.org).

If a green salon hasn’t yet arrived locally, bring nontoxic products for appointments and ask the stylist to use them. Visit the Skin Deep Database at ewg.org/skindeep to find the least-toxic products for at-home use.

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December 2014

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consciouseating

HAPPY FEASTING TO ALL

Tasty Rituals that Deepen the Holiday Spirit

by Lane Vail

T

he holiday season is ripe with an array of spiritual, cultural and family rituals. We celebrate, reflect, give gifts and, of course, feast.

Fortunately, the media also teems with tips on how to avoid high-calorie holiday goodies, says Dr. Michelle May, author of Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat. For our diet-driven culture to resolve its struggle with food, she says we must learn to honor its intrinsic value. Ritualized eating can help; a recent study published in the journal Psychological Science found that engaging in food rituals evokes mindfulness that enhances the enjoyment of eating.

Pause

Hunger, the body’s fuel gauge, manifests in physical symptoms like a growling stomach or low blood sugar, says May, citing a useful analogy. “You wouldn’t drive around and pull into every gas station you see; you’d check your fuel gauge first. Before filling up with food, pause and check your fuel gauge. Am I actually hungry, or is this desire coming from something else?”

May suggests practicing FEASTing: First, focus on physical sensations, thoughts and emotions; perhaps we’re thirsty, rather than hungry, rationalizing that holiday foods are special, or feeling stressed or lonely. Next, explore why the feelings or thoughts are present, and 18

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then accept them without judgment.

Strategize ways of satisfying the need and take a small step toward change.

Savor

Complex preparations for a major holiday can provoke anxiety and impatience, and likewise, feelings of longing or disappointment when it’s over. Sarah Ban Breathnach, bestselling author of Simple Abundance and Peace and Plenty, recommends allowing Christmastide to unfold at its own pace and celebrating all of December with a homemade Advent calendar.

Craft a tree-shaped tower of tiny boxes or a garland of burlap mini-bags clipped with clothespins. Place an almond covered in organic dark chocolate in each container and use the treat as a daily mini-meditation.

“Drop into the present moment, fully savor the luxurious, small bite and experience the pleasure of eating,” suggests May. Consider it symbolic of the season’s sweetness.

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Connect

“Food connects us with one another, our heritage and our culture,” says May. Heather Evans, Ph.D., a Queen’s University professor and a holiday culinary history expert in Ontario, Canada, suggests creating a food diary of traditions to reinforce a connection with the past and support a holiday food legacy for the future. Ask grandparents about their childhood culinary memories, peruse family recipe books or discover new dishes that honor everyone’s ethnic heritage. Then create an heirloom holiday cookbook with handwritten recipes arranged alongside favorite photos and stories.

Sync

According to pagan philosophy, sharing seasonal food with loved ones during the winter solstice on December 21 symbolizes the shared trust that warmth and sunlight will return. Eating warm foods provides physical comfort and eating seasonally and locally connects us to the Earth, observes May.

Sync body and spirit with the season by stewing root vegetables, baking breads, sipping hot cider and tea, and nibbling on nuts and dried fruits.

“The repetition of predictable foods is reassuring,” remarks Evans, and it celebrates nature’s transitions.

Play

Stir-Up Sunday is a Victorian amusement filled with fun, mystery and mindfulness, says Ban Breathnach. Some December Sunday, have each family member help stir the batter of a special Christmas cake while stating a personal new year’s intention. Drop a clean coin, bean or trinket into the mix and bake. Serve it with a sprig of holly on Christmas Day, and the person with the piece containing the lucky charm will be rewarded with a prosperous, wholesome and positive new year, according to tradition. Evans remarks, “This is a wonderful ritual for nurturing the health and spirit of the family.”

Give

Boxing Day offers something far more meaningful to celebrate than postholiday sales. Originating as a tradition that thrived during the 19th century,

“December 26 was a chance for landowners and homeowners to give back to household staff and local tradespeople,” says Evans. “It’s a tradition worth reviving to pause, reflect on our own good fortune and contribute to others’ comfort.”

Consider serving a meal at a local soup kitchen, collecting items for a food drive or offering a box of healthy culinary treats to community stewards at a fire station, post office or library. On Christmas Day, says Ban Breathnach, “Our kids have the world lying at their feet.” Boxing Day, she says, provides a natural transition to reach out in charity.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.

HEALTHY HOLIDAY TOPPERS Creating a repertoire of delicious wintery foods can help evoke health, mindfulness and delight during the holiday season. Dr. Michelle May advises approaching the entire process of eating, including the menu planning, shopping and food preparation, with a spirit of mindfulness, which adds a deeper dimension of pleasure to the experience. “Cake becomes more than just cake,” she says. “It becomes something the family creates and enjoys together.”

Savor these rituals and recipes with loved ones.

Start the new year with a tabula rasa (clean slate) by hosting a New Year’s Eve Good Riddance Tea Party. Gather family and friends over warm ginger tea, spiced apple cider, hot chocolate and festive finger foods. Guests write down on slips of paper any mistakes, disappointments, regrets, hurts or failings they wish to be forgiven or forgotten. One by one, put them into a crackling fireplace or bonfire to symbolize surrendering of the past.

“This ties the heart strings in a comforting bow,” comments author Sarah Ban Breathnach.

Then, inscribe fresh intentions for the year to come and tuck them away in a special place. “This is the most mystical part, because so many prayers get answered,” Ban Breathnach says. Lastly, toast the new year with optimism and joy.

Bake for an hour-and-a-half. Insert a skewer or toothpick to see if it comes out moist, but clean; if not, bake for up to 30 minutes more. (Cover the top if necessary to prevent over-browning.)

After cooling, remove from the tin and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one month.

Courtesy of Teresa Cutter, author of The 80/20 Diet and founder of TheHealthyChef.com.

The Perfect Custard

Memory-Making Christmas Cake

A Revitalizing Ritual for the New Year

Combine the dried fruit, spices, vanilla, orange zest and juice, olive oil and eggs. Mix in the almond flour and walnuts, then spoon the batter into the baking tin.

This nontraditional, healthy Christmas cake is alcohol-, sugar- and gluten-free.

It relies on fruit for sweetness, almond meal for moistness and vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and orange essences for a perfect mingling of flavors. Prepare the cake with the whole family as a Stir-Up Sunday ritual, and keep it tightly sealed in the refrigerator until Christmas Day. Serve in small portions at room temperature or warmed in the oven and alongside vanilla bean custard or plain yogurt swirled with orange blossom honey.

Yields 20 servings 2½ cups (600 grams) mixed and chopped dried fruit (raisins, prunes, figs, apricots, currants, sultanas and/ or dates) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp nutmeg 1 tsp vanilla bean extract Zest and juice from 1 organic orange 3 Tbsp olive oil 3 organic free-range eggs 2 cups (200 gm) ground almonds (almond flour) ¼ cup (50 gm) walnuts Preheat the oven to 300° F. Line the sides and base of a 7-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.

Yields 6 servings

A velvety-smooth custard, also called crème anglaise, may be used as a foundation of many desserts. It can be flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate, citrus, coffee or pistachio.

Pour this vanilla bean custard over a warm Christmas cake or serve it straight up as eggnog, adding a touch of brandy and dusting of nutmeg.

2 cups milk of choice (organic, almond, coconut, soy or rice) 2 organic free-range eggs 2 tsp vanilla bean extract 2 Tbsp organic maple syrup or 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp cornflour or kudzu Pinch nutmeg

Heat milk in a saucepan with vanilla and honey and bring to near boiling, then remove from heat.

Beat eggs and cornflour in a stainless steel mixing bowl until combined.

Pour the hot milk over the eggs and whisk in well.

Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over a gentle heat, stirring with a wooden spoon until it thickens and coats the back of the spoon.

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December December 2014 2014

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Remove from the heat quickly and pour back into the mixing bowl.

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Whisk well to slightly cool and smooth it out. If any lumps appear, strain the mixture through a sieve.

Serve hot or cold. To warm up cold custard, put in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water; stir and heat through gently.

NOTE: For an egg-free custard, heat 17 oz almond milk with 2 Tbsp honey or 100 percent maple syrup and 2 tsp vanilla extract until near boiling. Thicken with a slurry made from 2 Tbsp cornflour, arrowroot or kudzu. Finish with a sprinkling of nutmeg.

Pet Bed-Buddies

Courtesy of Teresa Cutter, author of The 80/20 Diet and founder of TheHealthyChef.com.

Melody Moonlight’s Magical Monster Loving Potion Yields 4 servings Melody Moonlight’s story, which birthed the potion 32 oz apple juice ½ cup dried holy basil leaf 2 Tbsp dried orange peel 2 Tbsp dried rosemary 1½ Tbsp crushed cardamom 1½ Tbsp dried ginger root 1 Tbsp dried peppermint leaves ½ Tbsp ground nutmeg 1½ cinnamon sticks 13 drops each of essences of chicory flower, beech flower and rose quartz (all available at natural grocers) In a large pot, bring the apple juice to a near boil.

Add all the other ingredients and turn off the heat.

Read Melody Moonlight’s story at Tinyurl.com/LovePotionStory to infuse it all with magic and meaning.

Courtesy of Andy Bottagaro, potion maker at Shine Restaurant & Gathering Place, in Boulder, CO. 20

Tennessee Valley

Is Sleeping Together Healthy?

by Erik J. Martin

T

here was a time Staying in close room in the bed if you when Eliska, a don’t wake up.” contact makes it three-pound Prague ratter, would curl up and easier to pick up Make a Good Choice sleep next to owner Krista fleas, ticks or skin “Having your pet sleep in DeAngelis, and most of the time, she and the mites a pet may the bed with you is a perdog enjoyed a peaceful sonal choice,” says hocarry, and can night’s slumber. listic Veterinarian Patrick

Then DeAngelis worsen allergies. Mahaney, of California married, and her husPet Acupuncture & Wellband banned the dog ness, in West Hollywood. ~ Roger Valentine, from the bed for fear of holistic veterinarian By discouraging this unintentionally squashbehavior, “Your pet will ing Eliska in his sleep. After enduring a be less likely to confuse your bed with few sleepless nights of canine whining theirs, and therefore prevent potential and barking, the Salt Lake City couple territory-related problems.” By failing successfully curbed their pet’s protests to discourage it, “You not only face the by simply spraying Eliska with a misting possibility of behavioral problems, you bottle every time she acted up. After could also face adverse effects to your two nights of this routine, the pocketown sleep and health,” he notes. sized pooch was fully trained to sleep

According to results published in by herself in another room. a survey of 300 sleep disorder patients

“I originally thought letting my dog conducted by Dr. John Shepard, then sleep in my bed was a good idea,” says medical director of the Mayo Clinic DeAngelis, a communications director Sleep Disorders Center, in Rochester, at Westminster College. “But I realized Minnesota, nearly 60 percent of the pet that they can keep you up when they owners in the study slept with their pets rustle around, wake you up if they have inside the bedroom. Twenty-two perto go out and sometimes go to the bath- cent of the patients were likely to have

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pets sleeping on the bed with them.

Plus, 53 percent said their sleep was disrupted to some extent every night.

Twenty-one percent and 7 percent of their dogs and cats, respectively, snored.

Yet, a British study of 420 UK cat owners conducted by the nonprofit Cats Protection revealed that 44 percent of respondents (including 51 percent of women polled) said they enjoyed a better night’s sleep with a cat in bed with them than with a human companion.

Benefits listed included an absence of snoring, more space on the bed and soothing purrs.

“The advantages of letting your pet share your bed include companionship, warmth and a sense of security,” advises Mahaney. Among the drawbacks, he notes lack of space for people to sleep, interruption of normal sleep patterns and the pet’s confusion about its expected place to sleep.

Nip Problems in the Bud

To break a pet of a bed-sleeping habit, Mahaney recommends applying persistence, consistency and the following tips:

A pet’s companionship can reduce levels of stress hormones while enabling people to deal with their emotions and stressful situations. ~ American Heart Association journal, Hypertension n Establish a separate area or bed for the pet to sleep. A cat or dog bed can be as simple as a clean, soft blanket placed nearby. n Use positive reinforcement techniques. Offer a tiny training treat, “gooddog” clicker noise or praise when the animal is comfortably resting in its own bed, to reinforce this desirable behavior. n Immediately address any territorial aggression when co-sleeping with a pet, such as growling or nipping. First, authoritatively say, “No!” Then put the pet on the floor or into its own bed and give the command to sit and stay.

n If problematic behavior persists, seek consultation with a veterinary behavior specialist.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

If a family member decides to share a bed with a pet, Mahaney offers the following recommendations: n Let it sleep on top of the covers, instead of under them. n Be aware of the need to remove environmental debris, including fecal material, on its coat before bedtime. n Give the dog an opportunity to void itself within a reasonable timeframe before going to sleep. A typical healthy dog should not have to get up in the middle of the night to urinate or defecate. n Allow a cat the opportunity to exit the bedroom throughout the night to play, eat, drink and use the litter box. Cats are nocturnal animals and are more likely to be active during lights out.

Erik J. Martin regularly contributes to WebVet.com, from which this was adapted.

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December 2014

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Workouts that Suit Your Personality

by Wendy Worrall Redal

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Editor@NatValley.com 22

Tennessee Valley

hile some people find repetitious workouts boring, others like doing predictable routines at regular locations. Ensuring that our fitness regimen jives with our “fitness personality” is integral to making exercise a consistent part of our lifestyle, a concept that has traction among exercise experts.

Jonathan Niednagel, founder and director of The Brain Type Institute, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, and an athletic consultant for professional teams, explains in his book, Your Key to Sports Success, that understanding our inborn brain type can help us to determine which sport is best suited to motivate us. In Suzanne Brue’s book, The 8 Colors of Fitness, she applies principles from the Myers-Briggs personality inventory to help readers develop a personalized exercise program. Susan Davis-Ali, Ph.D., in St. Paul, Minnesota, a professional coach for working women, created a Fitness Interest Profile survey for the Life Time Fitness health club chain.

She points to research that suggests people that engage in activities appropriate for their personalities enjoy

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their workouts more and are likely to stay with them longer.

Identifying our fitness personality can help us find a program that suits our rhythms and interests. Based on composites from growing research, here are six categories that assess and capture the way we may feel about exercise; more than one can apply to any individual.

Disciplined and driven. This is an image to which many of us may aspire, even though not everyone fits the mold.

These exercisers are self-motivated and goal-oriented. Commitment and consistency go hand-in-hand. They like to use devices to track progress, maintain a training log and/or work with a personal trainer in systematic workouts geared to measure improvement.

Disciplined types are often early risers; starting the day with regular exercise is second nature. Compatible fitness regimens include cardio workouts, interval and weight training, running, swimming and martial arts.

Relishes routine. While these folks are disciplined and driven in some ways, they tend to be more relaxed about regimens. The key to success here is consistency. They like order and familiarity in exercise settings and practice and may enjoy reading or watching a screen dur-

ing workouts. Whatever the preferred approach, whether it’s a favorite training video, Wii Fit video game, favorite teacher or memorized Pilates moves, these exercisers like to stick with it, even working out at the same time every day—often first thing in the morning or after work—finding that regularity can be habit-forming.

Conscious contemplative. Reflective individuals enjoy quiet, solo activities like long-distance running, biking, hiking and swimming, that allow opportunities to look inward, often without thinking too much about the physical details. Exercise offers a chance to clear the mind and renew the spirit while strengthening the body. These types naturally gravitate to outdoor pursuits, but some indoor practices may also suit them, like yoga, Pilates, tai chi or even karate, which incorporate a strong mind-body component. Workouts are often soothing, rather than intense.

Plays well with others. For many people, exercise is best enjoyed with others, combining the social and fitness benefits of both. Connections and camaraderie get them off the couch, revved up and ready to go. Whether it’s a committed group of friends chatting during water aerobics or a highpowered cardio class that compares notes, motivation comes primarily from the presence—and accountability factor—of others. A lunch-hour class at

a nearby studio or gym may be a fun break in the workday. On weekends, consider golf, tennis, dance or a local recreation team.

Compulsive competitor. While the communal aspect is appealing, the greater gratification for this type comes through the thrill and challenge of competition. Trying to win is the great motivator, unlike driven and disciplined types that are happy to push through to their personal best. Team sports are a natural outlet, including soccer, rugby, lacrosse, basketball or swimming, plus disc golf, tennis or racquetball matches and running events.

Avid for adventure. It’s tough for any formal exercise program to keep the attention of adventurers. They crave freshness and spontaneity in fitness venues, activities that engage their interest and animate enthusiasm. It’s crucial for adventurous types to mix things up and not rely on any one exercise practice.

Outdoor endeavors such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, inline skating or mountain biking have appeal. They may gravitate to the variables of Nia, Zumba’s high-energy Latin dance groove, kickboxing, exercise balls or hot yoga. A midday exercise escape can break the work routine. Their key to keeping active is to keep things stimulating.

Wendy Worrall Redal blogs at Gaiam Life (Life.Gaiam.com), from which this was adapted.

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December 2014

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wisewords

Opening Up to Miracles Gabrielle Bernstein on Creating More Happiness

by April Thompson

M

otivational speaker and bestselling author Gabrielle Bernstein knows the gravitational pull of addiction firsthand. Although introduced to spiritual practices from an early age, she turned away from that upbringing in her 20s, pulled instead into a vortex of drugs, alcohol and unhealthy relationships while running a public relations firm promoting Manhattan nightclubs. After hitting rock bottom at age 25, Bernstein made the unwavering decision to seek spiritual help and change her life.

The entrepreneurial young woman found her groove as a spiritual teacher, introducing millions to new ways of thinking and living through her books, lectures, blogs and videos. Her nononsense approach to spirituality and knack for making practices like meditation and prayer accessible to beginners and cynics have attracted a new generation of seekers. Bernstein’s latest book, Miracles Now:108 Life-Changing Tools for Less Stress, More Flow, and Finding Your True Purpose, offers simple, yet powerful tips to short-circuit unhealthy thought patterns and take a shortcut to transformational change.

Why do you reframe a miracle as simply a shift in perception?

Shifting your perception and choosing again is a core principle from A Course in Miracles, a metaphysical text that I study and teach from. When you choose

to reorganize your belief system and align it with a loving, forgiving perspective, rather than a fear-based reality, that’s when miracles can happen.

Some people shift away from a harmful relationship with addictive drugs and alcohol like you did, while others take such unhealthy behaviors to the grave; what makes the difference?

Often when we get caught in unhealthy behavior, we aren’t willing to ask for help. I think the reason I was able to leave those behaviors behind and create a new path was my willingness to live a different way. I was able to witness my life and see that it wasn’t working. It’s an ongoing process; I’ve been on my current path of turning to spiritual principles for many years, but I’m still constantly working to apply them throughout my moment-tomoment experiences.

How does meditation help create radical change?

I think meditation is a key tool for health, happiness and well-being. It can help reorganize the nervous system, lower stress levels, calm the mind and recalibrate energy. It can help us experience more synchronicity in our lives and a greater sense of interconnectedness, as well.

What do you struggle with the most and what personal miracle are you still trying to realize?

I’m in constant conversation with myself over my thoughts and beliefs about judgment and separation. People are programmed by society to believe we are separate and to judge ourselves and others. My practice suggests a reinterpretation of that general belief system in order to perceive things differently. I also try to forgive limiting thoughts I was holding onto; for example, judging myself for not performing well at a lecture.

Talking too much in conversations is a big challenge for me. A practice in my Miracles Now book called WAIT, for “Why am I talking?” reminds me to notice when I’m saying too much, commenting unnecessarily or not supporting the greater good.

How do you think about money, and has that proven helpful in broader terms?

I believe that we have the power to attract healthier relationships in our financial circumstances in the same way that we have the power to attract healthier relationships with people in our lives. Some people think that you can’t both be spiritual and secure financial abundance; I think that’s nonsense. When you start to reorganize your beliefs around your self-worth and capacity to earn, and open up to your intuitive voice and the creative possibilities for earning, then your financial situation can change dramatically. I have lived that principle fully. I was brought up in a poverty mindset, but with a shift in perception, I was able to release my fears of financial insecurity.

Do you have a go-to practice that you reach for first when faced with a difficult situation?

When I’m faced with a complicated situation or feeling powerless, I say a prayer in stillness. Such a practice asks through prayer and listens through meditation.

It’s in that stillness that I can hear the voice of intuition and the voice of forgiveness, and love can come forward.

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

natural awakenings

December 2014

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editorial calendar

2015 JANUARY

whole systems health plus: energy boosters FEBRUARY

enlightened relationships plus: healing grief MARCH

healthykids

Can-Do Kids Changing Our World at Any Age

by Ellen Sabin

animal rights

plus: new healthy cuisine APRIL

nature’s wisdom

plus: healthy home MAY

breast health

plus: natural birth JUNE

healing addiction

plus: balanced man JULY

food democracy

plus: inspired living AUGUST

parenting with presence plus: creativity SEPTEMBER

agelessness

plus: yoga benefits OCTOBER

working together

plus: natural antidepressants NOVEMBER

true wealth

plus: beauty DECEMBER

prayer & meditation plus: holiday themes

This article is written especially for young readers eager to embrace the true spirit of the holiday season. Sharing it with them can help cultivate a lifelong practice of giving.

H

ave you ever seen someone do something that changed a situation from bad to good?

Maybe your parents helped someone whose car broke down, or a teacher spent extra time after class helping you with schoolwork.

No matter your age, where you live or what you own, you have the power to do good, too. What you do can make other people happy and make the world a better place. Here are some ideas to help you figure out how. n A good place to start is to think about what’s important to you. This will help you find a way of giving back that you’ll enjoy and want to do again and again. For example, if you love taking care of animals, offer to walk an elderly person’s dog for them. If you get sad when you think about someone being lonely, visit a neighbor that lives alone

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or send a special card to a relative as a way to show your love. n It’s nice to help strangers, but you can also do little things close to home that’ll make life easier and better for your family. You can call your grandma to say hello, help your mom or dad with the dishes or play a favorite game with your little sister or brother. n You can also use your own special talents to help others. If you are a good cook, bake a healthy holiday treat to bring to someone that is feeling sick. You can read out loud a story to a younger child. If you’re strong and have lots of energy, you can help your neighbor take out the trash or do other household chores. n You can have fun and make an even bigger difference by doing good things with others. One way to get your friends excited about joining you is to plan a “Giving Party”. Ask your parents to help you download a free guide (WateringCanPress.com/html/ parents.html) that has fun ideas and activities for creating a holiday-time or birthday party or rainy day get-together.

n Giving to other people is important, but the planet needs us, too. You can practice giving by picking up litter, recycling and even turning off lights when you leave a room. When we pay attention to the environment around us, we can learn how to respond in a giving way.

inspiration

Hymn to Living in Silence

by Robert Rabbin

Ellen Sabin is the founder and president of Watering Can Press (WateringCanPress. com), a publishing company committed to growing kids with character. Her series of award-winning books include The Giving Book: Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving; The Greening Book: Being a Friend to Planet Earth; and The Healthy Body Book: Caring for the Coolest Machine You’ll Ever Own.

Fun Activity Who’s Been Giving to You?

Whether it’s time, love or things, the people around us give to us all the time. Sometimes we don’t stop to think about what people do for us, so we forget to say, “Thank you.” Appreciating what people give us is just as important as giving to others.

Here are some questions to ask yourself. After you have answered each question, think about what you can do to thank people for their kindness.

Who shared with you? What did they share?

Who taught you something? What did they teach you?

Who showed you love? How did they show you love?

Who made you happy? How did they make you happy?

Source: Adapted excerpt from The Giving Book: Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving by Ellen Sabin.

T

here’s one truth, and Celebrate the Then, by letting everyit is silence. All truths thing go the second it dawn of the occurs, we return to clarity, come from, exist as and return to silence. winter solstice freedom and eternal openSilence is behind every ness. We live in silence. For on December 21 it is in silence that God is holy thought, word and act. All holiness is silent. in nature and working, playing and loving.

This is what all sages In silence, we become perin silence. know and say: Enter silence fectly one with that divine and we leave behind the working, playing and loving. rubble of self and no-self, time and

When absolutely all has been given death. Enter silence and we see the up and only emptiness remains, even world that God created; that we are the then, take one more step towards silence. created. God, the world and being are Give away the emptiness. Hold back one. Life is suddenly real—beautiful and nothing. Even the giver is given away. perfect in each curve and angle.

In silence, we transform and are

This awakening into truth hapreborn. We become real with more joy, pens as we surrender everything pleasure, peace and contentment than to silence. We must give away our we ever hoped for. Our highest purpose inventory of unreleased thoughts and is fulfilled, our greatest longing is realcherished beliefs, undigested experiized in ways we know not. ences and dogma, disappointments,

In becoming nothing, we become fears, worries, resentments and soreverything. We need nothing, and thus rows; even personal desires and joys. have everything. With nothing to pro If it’s difficult to do: throw it away, tect, only peace remains. It cannot be fling it off, kick it out. Just don’t let it controlled or fathomed, only lived. We stay. We must empty our storehouses of love this about the holy ones, the sages. past, present and future, and then burn No one knows how it happens, only them down so that nothing can ever that it does. accumulate again.

In silence, we are moved by what

Now give more. Let go of ego, will moves all else without knowing how, why and humility, ignorance and knowledge, or when. This is freedom, love and truth. the body and its faculties. Surrender what is and is not yourself. Give away Robert Rabbin is a self-awareness meaning, purpose and happiness, even teacher and author. Connect at precious life itself. Nothing can remain.

RobertRabbin.com. natural awakenings

December 2014

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2

Holiday Concert at the Library – 7-9pm. Featuring the U.S. Army Four Star Jazz Orchestra and Rocket City Jazz Orchestra with vocalists. There will be a dance area and refreshments. Free. Huntsville Main Library, 915 Monroe St. 256-532-5940.

Madison Community Band Christmas Concert – 7-8:30pm. Come hear live Christmas music, featuring old favorites and new tunes, played by the Madison Community Band. Free. Grace United Methodist Church, 2113 Old Monrovia Rd, Huntsville.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 Gallery Tour – 5-9pm. Celebrate fine arts with a tour of local galleries and the Huntsville Museum of Art. With your choice of locations and styles, this informal event showcases artists whose talents include painting, pottery, glass, sculpture, jewelry design, photography and woodworking. Hors d’oeuvres served at all locations. Free. GalleryTour.org.

A Clarinet Christmas – 7:30-8:30pm. Come and enjoy the unique sound the a clarinet choir. The Clarion Winds will treat you to the sound of the holidays with selections from classical repertoire and traditional holiday favorites. Free. Church of the Nativity, 208 Eustis Ave SE, Huntsville.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 NEACA Christmas Craft Show – 9am-7pm (FriSat), 12-5pm (Sun). Various types of needlework, ceramics, flower arrangements, jewelry, decorated and hand-woven baskets, pottery, stained glass, clothes, toys, woodwork and other items are featured. Free. Von Braun Center, South Hall, 700 Monroe St, Huntsville. 256-533-1953.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Book Swap –10am-2pm. For every two books you bring you get to pick out and take one new book home. There will be books are for all ages. Free.

EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, 404 Madison St, Huntsville. EarlyWorks.com/Monthly-Book-Swap.

Huntsville Christmas Parade – 12-1pm. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a wonderful start to the holiday season. The route will begin on Clinton Avenue near the Downtown Post Office and end at the corner of Adams Street and Townsend Avenue.

Doggy Palooza – 12-4pm. Join us for a community wide adoption event at Lowe Mill to spread the word about homeless pets, and to help them find homes for the holidays. Free. Lowe Mill, First Floor Connector, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville. 256-533-0399.

Essential Oils for Pets – 10am-2pm. If you are interested in learning about essential oils for pets, come join us at Pets, Love and Happiness. Cindy Wilson, Young Living Independent Distributor, will talk about the many benefits of essential oils for dogs and cats.

905 Meridian St North, Huntsville. 256-476-6537.

Pop Up Art Show – 6-11:45pm. We will be bringing the complete Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment experience to Downtown Huntsville for a night of art, music, and fun. Free. Old Mason Building, 115 Clinton Ave East, Huntsville. 256-533-0399.

Planetarium Show: The Christmas Star – 7:30pm.

What exactly did the Wise Men see? Join us as we turn back the hands of time to look into the sky of long ago and search for this mysterious object. Admission charged. Monte Sano Park Planetarium, Huntsville.

256-539-0316.

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Parade of Lights on the River in Decatur – 6-8pm. The free holiday maritime event features approximately 15 to 20 boats of all types and sizes decorated with lights, holiday themes, and other festive trimmings for the holiday season. The best viewing will be from Rhodes Ferry Park in Decatur.

Happy Holidays SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 Guest Speaker Susan Holliday – 11am. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. UnityOnTheMountain.org.

17th Annual Tuba Christmas Concert – 4-5pm.

Seasonal music performed by more than 40 tuba, sousaphone, baritone and euphonium players. The musicians will come from across North Alabama and beyond. Free. Covenant Presbyterian Church, 301 Drake Ave SE, Huntsville. 256-508-1010.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8 Heritage Ringers of Huntsville Christmas Concert – 7-8pm. The Heritage Ringers have been a part of Huntsville’s music community since 1985. The group rings over six octaves of hand bells and hand chimes. Free. Trinity United Methodist Church, 607 Airport Rd SW, Huntsville. 256-883-3200.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Essential Oils for Better Living – 6-7:30pm Learn how essential oils can bring you a life of wellness, purpose and abundance. Explore the benefits of Young Living’s Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils.

Free. Decatur Healing Arts, 1900 Flint Rd SE, Decatur. Cindy Wilson: 256-476-6537.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11 Rocket City Health & Fitness Expo – 10am-6pm (Thu), 10am-9pm (Fri). Learn more about Zumba, Yoga, Pilates, martial arts, running and cycling.

Health and fitness seminars, weight loss education, fitness demonstrations, community health care providers, children’s activities, massage and nutrition.

Free. Von Braun Center, South Hall, 700 Monroe St, Huntsville. 256-533-1953.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 Acres of Diamonds – 7:30-8pm. Hear inspiring stories and insights from Harold Klemp, spiritual leader and acclaimed author of more than sixty books on Eckankar. Learn how to become a polished gem of God. Free. WOW (Knology) Cable Channel 11 (HuntsvilleMadison). 256-534-1751. Eck-Alabama.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 Southeastern Outings Dayhike – 9am. Moderately easy hike in DeSoto State Park. We will hike along the beautiful West Fork of Little River. We’ll also hike various other trails in the park and visit Lost Falls.

This is one of the most scenic state parks in Alabama.

Info: Havis Johnson, 205-834-3544. Seoutings.org.

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Downtown Mural Unveiling Party with Robert Bean – 4-6pm. Downtown Huntsville is the new home to a huge mural by Lowe Mill artist Robert Bean. Join us for an unveiling party to debut Robert’s 24-foot long masterpiece. Free. Mason Building, 115 Clinton Ave, Huntsville.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Hike Hays – 10am. Join us for a one-hour guided hike over easy terrain in various areas of the Preserve. Meet in the parking lot near the picnic area at 10am. Hays Nature Preserve, 7161 U.S. Hwy 431 South Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 A Holiday Season Jazz Evening – 7pm. A Special Jazz Holiday Season of Entertainment will feature Kim Scott, Classical & Jazz Flute Player from Birmingham with special guest Jazmin Ghent Saxophonist from Nashville. Admission charged.

Historic Cooper House, 405 Randolph St, Huntsville.

256-604-8172.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 Winter Solstice Service – 11am. Light of Christ Center, 4208 Holmes Ave NW, Huntsville. 256-895-0255.

LightOfChristCenter.org.

Christmas Candlelight Service – 5-6pm. Unity Church on the Mountain, 1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. UnityOnTheMountain.org.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26 Exploring the Psychology of Space: A Five-Day Residential Workshop for Mental Health Professionals – 5pm, Dec 26 to 12pm, Dec 31. Participants will learn the method of Somatic Inquiry, a bodycentered mindfulness meditation. 20 CEUs. Led

by Chuck Whetsell, Ph.D., and Amanda K. MillerFasshauer. Info: Chuck Whetsell, 205-901-6438 or Cwhetsell@PeaceOfNowness.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28 New Year, Healthier You – 2-4pm. The first step to becoming healthier in the New Year is to detox. Learn how we become toxic and how to reduce and eliminate toxins from our bodies. Free. Decatur Healing Arts, 1900 Flint Rd SE, Decatur. Info: Cindy Wilson 256-476-6537 or Cindy@AlabamaAwakenings.com.

ongoingevents

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

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.

sunday 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.

HEALTH COOKWARE SALADMASTER sales and service. 256-502-9845.

Revealing Service – 9:45am. Center for Spiritual Living, 308 Lily Flagg Rd, Huntsville. 256-883-8596.

CSL-Huntsville.org.

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

CSL-Huntsville.org.

Unity Church on the Mountain Worship Service – 11am, with Adult Discussion at 9:30am. Unity is a positive path for spiritual living. Rev. Carol Landry.

1328 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville. UnityOnThe Mountain.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.

monday Kangen Water Wellness Presentation – 6:30pm.

Bring your BPS-free plastic containers and we’ll make three gallons of the remarkable Kangen Ionized, MicroClustered, Alkaline Drinking Water. Attend our Kangen Water Wellness Presentation starting at 6:30pm each Monday night. Call for directions. G. Boyce Bazzell (Bazz). 256-430-8407. Bazzell@me.com.

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

CSL-Huntsville.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.

wednesday 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. 256-883-8596.

CSL-Huntsville.org.

saturday thursday Thursday Night Swing – 6:30-10pm. Swing dance lesson, 6:30pm; Dance 7:30pm. $5 covers lesson and dance. Lowe Mill/Flying Monkey, 2nd Floor Theatre, 2211 Seminole Dr, Huntsville.

Meditation and Pranayama – 7:15-7:45pm Thursdays, 7-7:30pm Fridays, 7-7:45pm Saturdays. Learn to discover freedom and stillness on the yoga mat and also in everyday life. Breathing techniques and guided meditations will be used to bring a deeper state of tranquility. Donations welcome. Yoga Fire of Huntsville, 250 Governors Dr. 256-399-YOGA. YogaFireHsv.com

friday 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 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 12/20 and 12/27). Huntsville ECK Center, 900 Wellman Ave NE #3 (near Five Points).

256-534-1751. Eck-Alabama.org.

Reiki Free Clinic (No Charge) – 2-4pm, every third Saturday of each month. For appointments, contact Shari Feinman-Prior at Shari1717@gmail. com or 256-289-3331. Peaceful Journey Center, 915 Merchant Walk Way, Suite A, Huntsville.

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.

Have a Stubborn Skin Disorder and Tried Everything Else?

Finally there is a solution, try Natural Awakenings DermaClear, a natural, affordable skin repair salve.

Our all natural personal skin care product brings comforting relief to sufferers of many skin irritations. DermaClear has proven to be effective against: • Shingles • Psoriasis • Eczema • Burns • Allergic Rash • Jock Itch • Stings • & more DermaClear will simply feel good putting it on.

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natural awakenings

December 2014

29

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

ALKALINE DRINKING WATER KANGEN WATER®

Ionized, Micro-Clustered, Alkaline Water Garvin Bazzell (Bazz) Bazzwater.com Bazzell@me.com Protect your body from high levels of acidity which contributes to many diseases. Kangen Water Systems produce alkaline water that will help neutralize the acidity in your body. Attend our Water Wellness presentation Monday Nights at 6:30pm.

Contact me for the location.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY CENTER FOR OPTIMAL WELLBEING U’Jeana Wilson Owner/Certified Colon Hydrotherapist Degree in Psychology 256-658-8600

Center for Optimal Wellbeing is the longest operating colonic therapy provider in Huntsville.

First time clients have expressed immediate feelings of increased energy levels and improved efficiency in waste elimination. You will enjoy the experience of your own “personal cleansing spa” as you receive colon hydrotherapy (colonic), far infrared sauna, an optional massaging shower, and ionic footbath services—in a clean, comfortable, and relaxing private environment. Call for directions and a 10% discount on your first service when you mention Natural Awakenings or use code COWB.

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 11.

ENERGY HEALING CENTER FOR DIRECTIONAL HEALING™ Susan Spalding 2225 Drake Ave SW, Ste 18 Huntsville, AL 35805 256-882-0360 • DirectionalHealing.com

For over 20 years, Susan Spalding and the staff at the Center for Directional Healing have been helping people achieve greater balance and health through Directional Healing and Reflexology. The Center now includes free SOQI Therapy with each session for the most complete healing experience.

Information on the energy medicine equipment is available at ChiDvd.com/susan. For healing techniques, articles, and more information on the Center, visit DirectionalHealing.com.

ENERGY PSYCHOLOGY PEACEFUL JOURNEY CENTER Shari Feinman-Prior, MRET, REV 915 Merchant Walk Way, Suite A Huntsville, AL 35801 256-289-3331 • ShariPrior.com Shari1717@gmail.com

Offering an individualized integrative approach to health and healing: Rapid Eye Technology, Inner Counselor Process, Mandala Process, Life Skills Coaching, Healing Touch and Reiki. Reiki Attunements and Personal Mentoring are available upon request.

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. See ad, page 13.

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.

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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 ads, page 5 and back page.

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 15.

HAIR SALON CJ HAIR AND ART STUDIO CJ Denison 105E Church St Madison, AL 35758 256-603-9018

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

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

Call Today for YOUR Appointment.

HYPNOTHERAPY

NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR

CENTER FOR INNER WELLNESS

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE ASSOCIATES

Creating positive change through hypnotherapy and Breathwork. Empowering you to live to your highest potential. Relieve stress and anxiety, release negativity, pain management, pre/post medical procedure, fears/phobias, weight loss, smoking cessation, and more. See ad, page 23.

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 11.

Becky Waters Certified Hypnotherapist and Professional Breathworker 3322 S. Memorial Parkway, Suite 643 Huntsville, AL • 256-348-5236

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.

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. See ad, page 12.

MASSAGE DIXIE PHILLIPS (LMT #2151)

Dixie’s Sunrise Massage Therapy 3313 Memorial Parkway, Ste #116 Huntsville, AL 35801 256-585-0504 • Hoss2ride@otelco.net Dixie’s Sunrise Massage Therapy: Come in and experience Dixie’s Combo. This is not the typical massage. MediCupping Therapy is used to relax muscles and increase the blood flow, which accelerates healing. It is also effective on bloating, scars, Fibromyalgia, Sciatica, migraine or tension headaches. See details on services, rates, and possible help with your Tissue Issues at DixiesSunrise.MassageTherapy.com.

Dr. Deb Gilliam, N.M.D. 1230 Slaughter Rd, Ste E, Madison, AL 256-325-0955

Your Whole Business Benefits from Healthy Marketing

SHAMANIC HEALING SHAMANIC HEALING & Therapeutic Massage Jeffrey Rich, LMT 256-­337-­1699 WaterWillowMoon.com Jeffrey.Rich@gmail.com

Imagine finding your wholeness!

Shamanic Healing is “Medicine f o r Yo u r S p i r i t , ” s a c r e d technology which helps you heal because it addresses the spiritual causes of what is affecting you.

Searching for joy? Something “just not right” with you? Have you “not been the same since” that significant event? Does something block you again and again? Lets unravel it and find the answers for you! Offering you Soul Retrieval, Unraveling of Energetic Blocks, Shamanic Training, experienced Therapeutic Massage. See ad, page 12.

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION JACI HOGUE

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 16.

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Natural Awakenings’

January Health & Wellness Issue To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

256-340-1122 natural awakenings

December 2014

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MADISON FAMILY CARE and WELLNESS CENTER

Hormone Pellets Bioidentical IV High Dose Vitamins Weight Loss Program Complete Family Practice Sick Visits Seasonal Allergy Testing and Natural Oral Drop Treatment vs. Shots

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Chad Gilliam, M.M.S., PA-C

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Dr. Gary Adams, M.D.

Take Control of Your Health

NOW Accepting New Patients

256-722-0555 1230 SLAUGHTER RD, SUITE C MADISON, AL 35758

MadisonFamilyCare.com Progress Toward Wellness & Prevention