Natural Awakenings Charlotte - January 2018

E R F

E

HEALTHY

LIVING

8

Guidelines Restore Wheat to the Table

HEALTHY

PLANET

Dial Down

STRESS How to Stay Calm and Cool

EXPECT A MIRACLE

Kick the

Plastic Habit Choose Earth Friendly Alternatives

Five Ways to Manifest Your Desires

GASTON COUNTY

Natural Guide

August 2017 | Location-Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

January 2018 | Charlotte Edition | AwakeningCharlotte.comJanuary 2018

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Detoxify your hair routine! professional organic color line essential oil based products and services exclusive appointments in relaxing studio atmosphere

Organic Salon LKN Complimenting Nature’s Beauty

CHARLOTTE EDITION

Lea Lally 704-883-6564 organicsalonlkn.com Mooresville, NC

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AD DESIGN Helene Leininger EDITORIAL Michelle Bense

Randy Kambic Martin Miron Jeanette Watkins

CALENDAR EDITOR Alison Holmes

CONTACT US 19825 N. Cove Rd., #176 Cornelius, NC 28031 Ph: 704-499-3327 • Fax: 866-632-9118 AwakeningCharlotte.com Publisher@AwakeningCharlotte.com Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com Calendar@AwakeningCharlotte.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Free subscriptions are available for our digital issue by emailing Publisher@AwakeningCharlotte.com

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MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett SR. ART/MKTG. DIRECTOR Steve Hagewood FINANCIAL MANAGER Mary Bruhn FRANCHISE DIRECTOR Anna Romano RANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs F WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Scofield Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakenings.com © 2018 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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Charlotte Edition

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January 2018

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letter from publisher

Thinking of heading into 2018, I’m envisioning a truck backing up—beep, beep, beep—pausing, and then turning slightly and

accelerating off in a new direction. Every day presents moments to make adjustments in life, but the start of a new year feels like a pronounced opportunity to go big.

J. Marie Novak’s inspirational article, “Expect a Miracle,” on

page 23 is taking center stage for me these days, especially the advice to be grateful for everything. Being generally grateful is fairly easy; being thankful for every little thing is a challenge.

For example I know I’m grateful for Natural Awakenings, but it is the range of players

and often-invisible details at work that make it what it is: A national franchise team that’s dedicated to objective and well-researched information that promotes a healthier, happier and more balanced life. Industry experts such as Dr. Karen Becker, one of our integrative veterinarian contributors, contribute their authoritative learning. Freelance writers like Jim Motavalli, an author and speaker specializing in environmental topics, bring focused skills to bear. They are two among dozens of bylines appearing in our magazine.

Then we have more than 80 dedicated Natural Awakenings publishers throughout

the U.S. and in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Luis Mendez and Waleska Sallaberry have suspended publishing their magazine in Puerto Rico to help rebuild their community following Hurricane Maria while they find other ways to support their family; it’s a clue of the commitment behind each edition.

Locally, both loyal and new Charlotte advertisers make our own edition possible.

Advertising is an art form and it’s well-known that it can take multiple exposures to a message before consumers will respond. We’re thankful for advertiser’s trust to deliver their message effectively.

We are grateful for: Advertisers that have stayed with us for years and those who are

new. Distribution sites that graciously provide us prime real estate in their business to support their customers that read our magazine. A team including local editors, ad and layout designers, a social media manager and our printer and distributors that monthly bring the Charlotte issue to fruition and get it into your hands. Plus, of course, our 45,000 enthusiastic monthly readers like you, who consistently find value in these pages.

Thanking you all, always,

Shannon McKenzie, Publisher

Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life. ~Omar Khayyam

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Charlotte Edition

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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.

Contents 16 HAROLD KOENIG

24

on Why Science Finds Faith a Healthy Choice

17 KICK THE

PLASTIC HABIT

Choose Earth-Friendly Alternatives

18 UNDERSTANDING NUTRACEUTICALS

How They Differ from Health Store Supplements

26

20 DIAL DOWN STRESS How to Stay Calm and Cool

23 EXPECT A MIRACLE

Five Ways to Manifest Our Desires

24 DON’T OVERFEED FIDO

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advertising & submissions

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS

HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 704-499-3327 or email Ads@ AwakeningCharlotte.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ AwakeningCharlotte.com. Deadline for editorial: the 12th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@AwakeningCharlotte. com. $15/each daily $10/each ongoing.

Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

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Plus Other Tips to Keep a Dog Cancer-Free

26 HEALTHY

WEIGHT KIDS

Food Choices that Prevent Obesity

28 EAT WHEAT AGAIN Eight Ways to Restore Gut Health

DEPARTMENTS 6 news briefs 10 health briefs 12 global briefs 14 gaston county

natural guide 15 business spotlight 16 wise words 17 green living 18 healing ways 23 inspiration

14 24 natural pet 26 healthy kids 28 conscious

eating 31 calendar 36 resource guide January 2018

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news briefs

Holistic Doctor of Charlotte to Present Free Lecture

D

Arthur Cushing

r. Arthur I. Cushing, D.C., D.Ch., C.N.C., F.S.A.C., of Holistic Doctor of Charlotte, will deliver a free lecture on rapid, bioenergetic methods to heal leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome and food allergies from 2 to 4 p.m. on January 20 at the Unity of Charlotte facility located in Charlotte. Attendees will learn both the true causes of such conditions and natural, non-medical solutions to them.

Cushing is an acknowledged expert on the diagnosis and treatment of these ubiquitous conditions, and has 38-plus years of clinical holistic experience treating them successfully. He’ll provide invaluable tips during his presentation and will have a q-and-a period afterwards. Food snacks and beverages will be available.

Event location: 401 E. Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. For more information or to register (required), call 704-776-4185 or email FDesk@HolisticDoc.com. The Holistic Doctor of Charlotte is located at 2101 Sardis Rd. N., Ste. 203, Charlotte. Visit HolisticDoc.com. See ad, page 29.

Expanded Staff, Services, Space and Hours at HC Wellness Center & Spa

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onna Brown, lead therapist for HC Wellness Center & Spa, in Gastonia, North Carolina, reports the practice is adding three more treatment rooms with both new therapists and services this month. Also, they’ll begin offering appointments seven days a week beginning New Year’s Day.

The center and spa, which has been in operation for 14-plus Donna Brown years, offers both traditional and alternative therapies to assist clients in achieving optimal health, wellness and balance. They have a highly-trained staff of therapists that’s always been focused on facilitating a healthier lifestyle. The center currently offers colon hydrotherapy, massage, far infrared sauna therapy, energizing foot spa and vaginal steam.

The vaginal steam, known in other cultures as the bajo, Chai-yok and yoni-v-steam, is a remedy that’s being recognized as the forgotten ancient wisdom for women’s healing and is being fervently revived by women today. Women everywhere are beginning to practice it again as it can cleanse and revitalize the uterus, effectively reducing discomfort associated with menstruation.

Location: 1308 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-823-1577, email IHealthyConnect@Carolina.rr.com or visit HCWellnessCenterAndSpa.com or on Facebook. See ads, page 14 & 36.

Carolinas Weight Loss Institute Opens in New Location in Gastonia

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he Carolinas Weight Loss Institute (CWLI) Gastonia Clinic will be hosting a free Open House and Ribbon Cutting by the Chamber of Commerce at Lidia Adkins their new location at 216 South New Hope Road on January 30. CWLI outgrew their previous location and recently moved into the new facility with expanded services being offered including free consultations for weight loss and other issues each weekday.

The community is welcome to tour the clinic and find out about all the personalized programming that the CWLI offers for patients to live healthy lives.

Some lunchtime appointments are also available. CWLI, which also has clinics in Forest City, Columbus and Clinton, North Carolina, and Demapolis, Alabama, offers long- distance appointments to patients unable to come to the office.

More than 10 years ago, Dr. Lidia Adkins, CFMP, DC, PKT, founder and CEO of the Carolinas Weight Loss Institute, began pursuing developing a holistic, functional weight-loss protocol that considers the uniqueness of each individual, according to that persons’ genetic make up, metabolic predisposition and health status.

Through Adkins’ personalized and unique approach, protocol and tools, patients can lose up to a pound a day.

She recently released an additional five new formulas that she developed to address specific challenges.

For more information about the Open House event or to make an appointment, call 704-271-9757, email infog@ cwli.net or visit cwli.net or on social media. See ad, page 14.

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Charlotte Edition

AwakeningCharlotte.com

New Integrative Medicine Practice in Davidson

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tacey Devine, M.D., recently opened an integrative medicine consulting practice in Davidson.

Devine Integrative Healthcare, PLLC, is located at 452 South Main Stacey Devine Street, Suite 130, and is accepting new patients.

Devine is one of a handful of physicians in the Charlotte area that has completed a two-year Integrative Medicine Fellowship from the University of Arizona and been certified by the American Board of Physician Specialties in Integrative Medicine. She is double board certified in both Family and Integrative Medicine and is a member of the Society of Integrative Oncology. Devine will work with the current healthcare team of clients to provide evidence-based integrative therapies to help in healing and promoting wellness.

Also, if you are undergoing cancer treatment, Devine will partner with your oncologist and provide recommendations to reduce side effects, improve cancer symptoms, enhance emotional health and sometimes enhance the effect of conventional treatments. For those with a history of cancer, Devine will work with you on ways to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve overall health.

The Nook We Can Help You with Anxiety & Stress!

Come to one of our classes for Relief • NEW! Stress Busters • Meditation classes for all levels • Psychic Intuitive Readings 400 North Harbor Pl. Davidson, NC 28036

704.896.3111

www.kentcookinstitute.com

kentcooknook@gmail.com

For more information or to make an appointment, visit DevineIntegrative.com, email Info@DevineIntegrative.com or call 704-997-5449. To schedule a free 15-minute consultation, visit DevineIntegrative.com and select Contact. See ad, page 37.

enjoy January 2018

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Stress Busters Workshops at Kent Cook Institute

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he Kent Cook Institute at The Nook in Davidson, North Carolina, will present two free special Stress Busters workshops at 1:30 p.m. on February 3 and 10. While traditional thinking is that enormous amounts of stress creates negative places in people’s lives, the event will address new ways of thinking about stress—how to learn to employ the feeling of stress, fine-tune it and use it as a skill to activate and enhance one’s own personal vitality.

Attendees will be taught that stress is the body’s own voltage which can be transformed into a personal motivator. Organizers attest that it’s time to convert the stressors of life into positive energy motivators, enhancing your health, relationships and helping you complete your projects.

The Institute is accredited by the World Metaphysical Association and the American Council of Holistic Healers. All instructors are professionally trained and certified.

Location: 400 North Harbor Place Dr., Davidson. For more information or to register, call 704-896-3111, email KentCookNook@ gmail.com or visit KentCookInstitute.com. See ad, page 7.

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Charlotte Edition

AwakeningCharlotte.com

Soul Coaching Training Program in North Carolina

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ersonal coaches are in demand, as many people are searching for meaning amidst personal and global challenges. Applicants can get ready to start a new business in this exciting area by training to be a Soul Coaching practitioner at a professional certification program led by trainers Theresa Gendron, of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Sarah Paola, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, from March 17 to 23 at The Mountain Retreat, in Highlands, North Carolina.

Participants may learn many coaching methods in four separate 28-day programs, structured powerful workshops and events that can be conducted with individuals or groups, either online or one-on-one, plus receive business startup tools. They’ll also be able to attend a 28-day program for free, plus two evening sessions on symbols and daily signs sent by program guides.

It’s a system that helps to clear away old thinking, as well as emotional and physical clutter, and helps clients design a life to discover their true purpose.

For more information, cost and registration, visit SoulCoachingRegistration.com or YourSoulLovesTheTruth.com/registration. See ad, page 4.

Namaste Green Offers Online Sugar Detox Program

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erritt Tracy and Jennie Dawkins, Integrative Nutrition Health Coaches, with Namaste Green, will offer a Free Me From Sugar six-week sugar detox online program beginning January 25. By reducing cravings and kicking the sugar habit, participants can lose weight, balance their hormones (leptin, cortisol and insulin resistance), reduce aches and pains, improve sleep along with other benefits.

The detox provides a structured program that is flexible for everyone. The on-line program is packed with benefits including coaching calls, shopping lists, a private Facebook group, recipes, and nutritional education. The program also includes a hormone survey that looks at symptoms related to blood sugar (insulin and leptin) and stress (cortisol) at the beginning and end of the program. Past participants of the program have improved their hormone symptoms by more than 50 percent.

Tracy and Dawkins are both Integrative Nutrition Health coaches and trained hormone coaches. “We have helped dozens of people kick the sugar habit and improve their overall health,” they say.

Cost: $199. For more information or to register, call 704-492-5416, email Jennie@NamasteGreen.com or Merritt_Jennie@NamasteGreen.com or visit FreeMeFromSugar.com. See ad, page 2.

New Cleanse Package from Nourish Charlotte

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et a fresh take on your diet in 2018 with a new Nourish Cleanse package from Nourish Charlotte available now with deliveries starting on January 1. Ordering it can help in making the transition to plant-based hassle-free with support just a phone call or email away.

With its diverse menu of plant-powered breakfasts, lunches, dinners, soups and salads, desserts, tonics and smoothies, Nourish Charlotte can take care of as much of your daily food needs as you’d like. Ordering once, every week or monthly, food items will be healthy plant-based, gluten- and sugar-free, locally sourced and organic-prepared meals.

NutritionFacts.org reports that research shows a more plantbased diet may help prevent, treat, or reverse some of our leading causes of death, including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Interventional studies of plant-based diets have shown up to a 90 percent reduction in angina attacks within just a few weeks. Plant-based diet intervention groups have reported greater diet satisfaction than control groups, as well as improved digestion, increased energy and better sleep, physical functioning, general health, vitality and mental health, plus improved body weight, blood sugar levels and ability to control cholesterol.

For more information or to order, visit NourishCharlotte.com and click on Meal Plans. See ad, page 2.

January 2018

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health briefs

Researchers at the Imperial College London say that five servings of fruits and vegetables is a good start, but more is better. After conducting a worldwide meta-analysis of 2 million people that compared early mortality rates from cardiovascular disease and cancer, they recommend eating at least 10 three-ounce vegetable and fruit servings per day, which could prevent up to 7.8 million premature deaths each year.

AEROBICS KEEP THE BRAIN YOUNG Simple movement turns out to be the best way to lift mood, improve memory and protect the brain against age-related cognitive decline, according to Harvard Medical School researchers in an article, “Aerobic Exercise is the Key for Your Head, Just as It is for Your Heart.” Even brisk walking or jogging for 45 minutes can alleviate depression.

The Journal of Physical Therapy Science notes that aerobic workouts can help people feel less stressed by reducing levels of the body’s natural stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol.

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Charlotte Edition

AwakeningCharlotte.com

Gts/Shutterstock.com

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Daily Produce Servings Prevent Early Death

gpointstudio/Shutterstock.com

Healthy diet options of spinach and kale may also help keep our brains fit. In a study from the University of Illinois appearing in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 60 adults between 25 and 45 years old having higher levels of lutein, a nutrient found in green, leafy vegetables, avocados and eggs, had neural responses more on par with younger people than others of their own age. Lutein is a nutrient that the body can’t make on its own, so it must be acquired through diet. It accumulates in brain tissues and the eyes, which allows researchers to measure levels without using invasive techniques.

Natali Zakharova/Shutterstock.com

Lutein in Greens and Eggs Slows Cognitive Aging

Better Health Now Available Without A Prescription!

STOP Medicating Symptoms & START Restoring Health Have you tried EVERYTHING and STILL have unexplained health issues?

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HaasWellnessCenters.com

January 2018

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global briefs

Urban Trees

Cigarette Cutback Higher Prices Lower Use

Research from the Medical University of Vienna found in a 30-year study that increasing prices for tobacco products by 5 percent reduced tobacco use by 3.5 percent.

LilKar/Shutterstock.com

Urban trees help reduce obesity and depression, improve productivity, boost educational outcomes and reduce incidences of asthma and heart disease for residents, yet according to The Nature Conservancy, American cities spend less than a third of 1 percent of municipal budgets on tree planting and maintenance. As a result, U.S. cities are losing 4 million trees per year.

Each summer, thousands of unnecessary deaths result from heat waves in urban areas. Studies have shown that trees are a cost-effective solution. Too often, the presence or absence of urban nature and its associated benefits is tied to a neighborhood’s income level, resulting in dramatic health inequities. In some American cities, life expectancies in different neighborhoods located just a few miles apart can differ by as much as a decade. Not all of this health disparity is connected to the tree cover, but researchers are increasingly finding that neighborhoods with fewer trees have worse health outcomes, so inequality in access to urban nature can lead to worse health inequities.

puhhha/Shutterstock.com

City Greenery Boosts Public Health

Veggie Doctors

Cardiologists Urge Plant-Based Hospital Meals

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is advising hospitals in improving patient menus by adding healthy, plant-based options and removing processed meats, which have been linked to 60,000 cardiovascular deaths annually.

The ACC Heart-Healthy Food Recommendations for Hospitals states, “At least one plant-based main dish should be offered and promoted at every meal.” ACC also urges that processed meats such as bacon, sausage, ham, hot dogs and deli meats should not be offered at all. These guidelines extend to hospital cafeterias and onsite restaurants.

The American Medical Association has also passed a resolution that calls on hospitals to provide similarly healthy meals. Processed meats are now considered carcinogenic to humans, according to the World Health Organization. A 50-gram serving a day—one hot dog or two strips of bacon—increases colorectal cancer risk by 18 percent.

“Too many heart disease patients have had their recovery undermined by bacon and hot dogs on their hospital trays,” says Dr. Neal Barnard, president of the nonprofit Physicians Committee.

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Charlotte Edition

AwakeningCharlotte.com

Gods_Kings/Shutterstock.com

To read the white paper, visit Tinyurl.com/FundingTreesForHealth.

Meatless Millennials

Peter Bernik/Shutterstock.com

Young Vegetarians Worry Meat Industry

The 2017 Chicken Marketing Summit in North Carolina involved hundreds of leaders from fast-food chains, marketing agencies and poultry production companies discussing the fact that Americans are eating less poultry—and what to do about it. Richard Kottmeyer, a senior managing partner at Fork to Farm Advisory Services, explained that Millennials need to be “inspired and coached” to consume more animal products, according to an article published on WattAgNet.com, an industry website.

“Compared to their parents, Millennials are more likely to believe in evolution and accept that climate change is occurring. They seek out facts and science to better understand a complex world, but the poultry industry doesn’t have any fact-based information to defend its cruel, unsanitary practices,” states animal rights advocate Nathan Runkle via EcoWatch.com. The majority of chickens raised for meat have been bred to grow so large so quickly that they collapse under their own unnatural weight. North Carolina has enacted an “ag-gag” bill, making it illegal to photograph or videotape animal abuse.

Tim UR/Shutterstock.com

Eco Pesticide

Safer Product Controls Citrus Pests

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California Department of Pest Regulation have approved CRS Plus, an aerosol pheromone biopesticide product that disrupts the mating cycle of Aonidiella aurantii, also known as California Red Scale (CRS). Pheromones do not kill or damage the target insects, and are species-specific, so pollinators and other beneficial insect species are not affected.

CRS attacks all aerial parts of citrus trees, including twigs, leaves, branches and fruit. Heavy infestations can cause reduced fruit quality, yellowing and dropping of leaves, dieback of twigs and limbs and even death of the tree.

Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors throughout the area.

Please consider supporting these major distributors by shopping there and picking up the magazine each month from one of the racks.

Thank you!

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gaston county natural guide Connecting Gaston County to leaders in natural health, wellness and green living. To find out how you can be included in the Gaston County Natural Guide, email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GASTON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES 704-922-2167 Erin.Lineberger@GastonGov.com

Offering free environmental and natural resource education to students and teachers as well as adults and civic organizations.

Call Erin Lineberger for more information or to schedule an education session.

ORGANIC MARKET & SUPPLEMENTS ORGANIC MARKETPLACE

1308 E. Garrison Blvd, Gastonia 704-823-1577 HCWellnessCenterAndSpa.com

Offering traditional and alternative therapies seven days a week to help you achieve optimal health, wellness and balance. Colon hydrotherapy, massage, far infrared sauna therapy, energizing foot spa and yoni or v-steam.

WEIGHT LOSS CAROLINAS WEIGHT LOSS INSTITUTE Lidia Adkins, CFMP, DC, PKT 216 S. New Hope Rd, Gastonia 704-271-9757 • CWLI.net

9am -7pm M/F, 9am-6pm Sat. Reliable community partner, local source for education, organic foods, personal care, products, supplements, aromatherapy, organic wine/beer and pet products.

Developers of “40 Day Transformation” system, a physician designed and administered functional approach with programming tailored to the unique metabolism needs of each individual, to provide safe and sustained weight loss. Call for a free consultation.

PHYSICIAN Deborah Matthew, MD Belmont • 704-752-9346 SignatureWellness.org

As President of NC Integrative Medical Society and an internationally known speaker and author, Dr. Matthew helps her patients restore wellness, eliminate symptoms naturally and reduce the need for prescription medications. See ad page 39.

the SOUL

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(704) 338-9778 1710 Kenilworth Ave, Ste 200 Charlotte, NC • www.the-bag-lady.biz 14

Charlotte Edition

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To place a listing call 704-499-3327 or email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com.

business spotlight

Okra is Much More than a Meal

By Martin Miron

A

licia Roskind is the co-owner and founder of Okra, comprised of three distinctly important parts: yoga and wellness classes, massage therapy and private healing sessions, and a tea and coffee lounge.

She explains, “Okra-that weird and beautiful underdog of the vegetable kingdom, that odd and gummy and delicious staple of Southern cuisine that has become a symbol of home for so many Southerners. We envision this space and all of the components of Okra as a refreshing change from your standard fare of yoga and wellness centers —one that is uniquely representative of and involved with the community that supports it.”

Roskind wants to create a space for each and every person to feel welcome and at home, no matter where they’re from or how good their downward dog is. “We want to be a place for the impossible and unlikely to come alive through celebrating the pursuit of our unique, individual passions and creativity,” she says. “Okra, we believe, is a perfect embodiment of the kind of uncommon beauty that is only found in the simplicity of your own home.”

Okra is for practitioners at every level and tailored to each individual. Along with

Hal Smith and Alicia Roskind basic services, they offer a variety pack of modalities that help to support the healing of body and mind.

When Roskind was 25, she launched Okra as a yoga and massage therapy studio to be a center for healing practices and community in Charlotte. Her vision to create a place that facilitated growth while providing an organic and natural setting has blossomed, much like the plant from which the studio takes its name.

Hal Smith, co-owner and managing partner of Okra, started practicing there a few years ago and experienced the unique sense of community. He decided to partner with Roskind to further grow the business.

They developed the retail concept for Gumbo Goods that would support the natural health and healing energy approaches that are practiced at Okra, and opened it in 2015.

Smith is a licensed spiritual healer, certified Raindrop Technique Specialist, an RYT-200 Yoga Alliance yoga instructor, certified Aroma Yoga instructor, certified ChiRunning Instructor, certified Triggerpoint Myofascial Release specialist and Crossfit trainer. He also teaches several classes and performs services for clients.

Okra wants to grow by offering ways for residents to improve their health and quality of life. Raindrop Technique, which includes the application of eight essential oils using Tibetan and Native American energy approaches that help support systems throughout the body, is being introduced. In addition, Okra is now offering weekly essential oil workshops, including Aroma Yoga, which combines the application of oils with easy yoga asanas and polarity exercises to support balanced energies.

In January, they will begin Bowspring Yoga workshops, based on a revolutionary new postural model developed by founder of anusara yoga John Friend and Desi Springer.

Okra is located at 1912 Commonwealth Ave., in Charlotte. For more information, call 704266-1443 or visit OkraCharlotte.com.

January 2018

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wise words

HAROLD KOENIG

on Why Science Finds Faith a Healthy Choice

by April Thompson

P

hysician Harold G. Koenig, an international authority on religion, health and ethical issues in medicine, has dedicated his career to understanding the relationship between faith and health. Koenig, who has surveyed the scientific literature, shares the mounting evidence linking the power of faith to better health and well-being.

Koenig struggled for three decades to determine his life’s purpose before a spiritual transformation in 1984 set him on a Christian path. “As I’m able to surrender my will and follow God’s lead, I’ve found an increasing flow of blessings. Even in those times when I’m self-centered, the blessings continue. I can only attribute it to the incredible undeserved grace and mercy of one who understands and forgives,” he says.

He’s the director of Duke University’s Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health, an associate professor of medicine at the Duke University Medical Center, in Durham, North Carolina, and author of nearly 50 books. Titles include The Healing Power of Faith, The Handbook of Religion and Health, and the recent You Are My Beloved.

Really?, musings on the nature of divine love.

What maintains people’s faith in the face of worldly adversity?

Adversity can increase people’s faith; when things are going well, people don’t feel the same urgent need for religion.

Why do hurricanes happen? Why do people experience chronic pain? When someone is in the midst of challenges, there is no easy explanation, even though there can be many answers. Sometimes all you can do is to have faith that a good God reigns, despite appearances. That can lead to a sense of well-being and spiritual purpose, even in the midst of bad material experiences.

How you’ve dealt with life prior to a challenge matters. If you follow a spiritual 16

Charlotte Edition

path and practice, when bad things happen, you can lean on your foundation of faith; you’re better prepared. Once you’re in the middle of it, all you may feel is the pain and a desperate desire to get rid of it.

One of the most precious gifts we have as humans is the freedom to choose. We can be selfish and strictly pleasure-seeking, or we can be kind and altruistic. We can turn toward or away from our divine source.

What have you concluded from decades of studying the relationship between faith, prayer and health?

Our research and that of many other major academic institutions, including Harvard and Columbia universities, shows that people of strong faith enjoy better social, physical and mental health, all else being equal. It drives healthy behaviors and attitudes, which leads to better health.

A person’s religious beliefs and spiritual practices affect them across their lifespan. It begins in utero, based on parental behavior and care, and shows in

AwakeningCharlotte.com

the sense of trust we have as infants. In this way, parents’ faith-based moral values also can favorably affect their children’s levels of stress, depression and drug use later on.

Is there a tension between the yearning for scientific certainty and the intuitive nature of faith?

I feel that tension constantly as a scientist and a believer. I’m always challenging myself; you have to be objective as a scientist, to observe without reading into things. But the wisdom of the scriptures has endured through thousands of years, applied by believers through the ages in many different groups and cultures. About 80 percent of Americans today believe in God, nearly 90 percent in a higher power, and 84 percent of the world’s people have religious faith. Such faith must serve some kind of function for it to have persisted throughout the millennia.

There is much that is still unknown, and may not be knowable from a scientific perspective. You need to use common sense and intuition. It requires a leap of faith, but once you do it, everything falls into line—though I admit as a scientist I keep trying to understand things from a rational perspective.

What are the pathways by which spirituality contributes to health?

Science supports firsthand experience; that the virtues instilled by a religious path ultimately lead to better decision making, relationships and greater well-being.

They help to neutralize negative emotions.

These benefits accrue through adulthood and yield fruit into old age. The coping mechanism that spiritual practices provide is also important. It helps us to tolerate and navigate difficult situations and integrate meaning and purpose into daily life.

I don’t think science can prove to us that faith leads to divine healing. But through natural mechanisms alone, ones that we can understand and study, tremendous evidence exists to show that it benefits health and maybe even longevity.

Connect with freelancer April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

green living

Kick the Plastic Habit

Choose Earth-Friendly Alternatives Mohamed Abdulraheem/Shutterstock.com

by Avery Mack

G

rocery bags, bottles, cups and straws comprise much of the 9.1 billion tons of plastic manufactured worldwide in the past 65 years. Once discarded, 79 percent resides in landfills and litters the environment, with more created daily.

Annually, the equivalent of five grocery bags of trash for every foot of coastline worldwide enters the oceans, killing 100,000 marine animals. A 2016 World Economic Forum report says that by 2050, the world’s seas could contain more plastic than fish.

At the 2017 Our Ocean Conference, the Ocean Conservancy and its partners announced a $150 million preventive plan. “This is a major breakthrough for trash-free seas,” says Susan Ruffo, the conservancy’s managing director of international initiatives. “Our research found improved waste management in Southeast Asian countries [Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and China] can halve plastic going in the ocean by 2025.”

When the United Nations launched the Clean Seas campaign in 2017, Indonesia pledged $1 billion to reduce plastic waste by 70 percent within eight years through education, taxes on plastic bags and investing in alternative products. Increased awareness is crucial to buy and discard less, create alternatives and recycle more to support the planet’s overall health.

or carryout containers, is toxic to our brain and nervous system; ask what restaurants use.

#7, Polycarbonate, found in the lining of canned foods, sports drinks, juice drinks, ketchup bottles and clear sippy cups, contains bisphenol A (BPA), a proven endocrine disruptor.

Small Changes Make a Difference Recycling weakens plastic grocery bags, necessitating double-bagging to avoid spills. Average families annually accumulate about 1,500 plastic bags, with 99 percent ending in landfills, as litter or stuffed in the pantry, according to the Center for Biological Diversity. Worldwide, many countries ban or tax bags.

“Annually, 50 billion water bottles are sold globally, including 30 billion in the U.S. That’s 1,500 individual water bottles thrown away per second,” says Deanna Latson, co-founder of ARIIX, which makes water purification systems, in Bountiful, Utah. “One filter can purify the equivalent of thousands of them a year.” The U.S. annual bottle recycling rate is 23 percent.

Beth Terry, of Oakland, California, author of Plastic-Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too, offers 100

Expanding Footprint

Lacking space, technology and equipment to transform waste into reusable materials, U.S. municipalities typically ship it to a sorter for processing elsewhere; often to China, where new regulations restrict what’s accepted, leaving trash haulers scrambling. Although recyclable, these are the worst plastics:

#3, Polyvinyl chloride, used in plastic wrap, toys, squeeze bottles and packaging for peanut butter, contains lead and phthalate esters (chemical compounds) that affect development of testosterone, according to a study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

#6, Polystyrene, in Styrofoam, plastic utensils and disposable January 2018

17

Contact Influencers

Tell companies when products have excessive or harmful packaging. In Delray Beach, Florida, Saltwater Brewery created biodegradable, safely edible wheat and barley six-pack rings to replace traditional plastic rings that are hazardous to wildlife.

Restaurants routinely provide fresh plastic straws with refills. BYOS (bring your own straw), whether plastic, stainless steel or paper, and let management know why.

Americans daily discard 500 million plastic straws (StrawlessOcean.org/alternatives).

“Consumers are willing to change if options are available,” observes Szaky. “Manufacturers need to offer high-quality, reusable products designed for reuse equal or superior in value to single-use, disposable items.”

Connect with the freelance writer via AveryMack@mindspring.com.

18

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healing ways

Kseniya Tatarnikova/Shutterstock.com

tips at MyPlasticFreeLife.com, including this planet-saving advice: 4 Opt for bar soap instead of liquid, soap nuts in lieu of plastic-packaged powders, and baking soda and lemon or vinegar rather than sprays to clean.

4 Ask the butcher to wrap meat in paper, forgoing trays and plastic wrap.

4 Buy fruit and vegetables at farmers’ markets; return containers for reuse.

4 Turn out-of-fashion garments into cleaning rags; skip plastic scrubbers.

4 Carry reusable water bottles and cloth shopping bags.

4 Avoid over-packaged frozen foods.

4 Use glass jars for leftovers and storage.

4 Buy kitty litter packaged in paper.

4 Choose stainless steel pet food and water bowls.

As a substitute, glass is endlessly recyclable, but facilities are few. Find resource centers at gpi.org/glass-resource-locator.

“Plastic innovations stop at invention and don’t follow through to end-oflife solutions,” says Tom Szaky, CEO and founder of TerraCycle, in Trenton, New Jersey. It accepts both basic and difficultto-recycle waste including pens, laboratory waste, cigarette butts, art supplies, small auto parts, bathroom cleaning waste, toys, candy wrappers and coffee pods (TerraCycle.com).

UNDERSTANDING NUTRACEUTICALS

How They Differ from Health Store Supplements

by Linda Sechrist

Savvy consumers seeking products that might help them achieve and maintain good health may be noticing two new categories: medical food and nutraceuticals.

M

edicalized terminology is now being used to describe certain products we may already have been buying from brand-name dietary supplement companies and retailers, and they have a higher price tag. One common example: powdered protein mealreplacement shakes that can cost up to $16 more than a retail store brand, as nutraceutical and medical food purveyors want to differentiate their products as having clinical research and development behind them. This raises the bar on the quality of contents and assures consumers of third-party testing for proof of ingredients.

Although both are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, there is no legal distinction between dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, yet each serves different purposes. Dietary supplements, comprising vitamins, minerals and/or herbs and botanicals, are intended to enhance wellness among healthy adults.

Nutraceuticals encompass nutrients, foods or parts of foods used as medicine to provide health benefits beyond nutrition and combat chronic disease. Some of the most popular formulations involve botanicals like ginseng, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort and echinacea.

Our nutraceuticals and medical foods are supported by verifiable science that provides solid evidence regarding the therapeutic benefits produced by ingredients in our products. ~Bill Shaddle Metagenics, Inc.

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“Medical foods, formulated for dietary management of a specific medical condition for which nutritional needs are unmet by a normal diet, are regulated under the Orphan Drug Act of 1983,” explains Bill Shaddle, senior director of medical education at Metagenics, Inc. “Our nutraceuticals and medical foods are supported by verifiable science that provides solid evidence regarding the therapeutic benefits produced by ingredients in our products.”

The word nutraceutical, blending nutrition and pharmaceutics, was coined in 1989 by Stephen L. DeFelice, the founder and chairman of the nonprofit Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, in Mountainside, New Jersey, which promotes clinical research and development of dietary supplements and foods specifically for their health benefits.

Reputable companies that manufacture private-label nutraceuticals, such as Metagenics and Xymogen, among others, research and develop products for functional nutrition and quality. While such products are solely distributed through partnerships with healthcare professionals such as medical doctors, nutritionists and pharmacists, some of the evidence-based, professional-grade formulas are available through online physician websites.

Metagenics and Xymogen collaborate with institutions such as the Cleveland Clinic, Bastyr University and National College of Natural Medicine in conducting clinical research that demonstrates how their formulas impact healthy aging, cognitive function and overall health.

Federal Regulations Medical foods and nutraceuticals, orally administered dietary products formulated to support the management of conditions such as compromised gut function, agerelated muscle loss, metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are subject to standard food and safety labeling requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Although they may be used under medical supervision, patients don’t need a prescription. Many healthcare practitioners, including dieti-

tians, currently recommend them under a physician’s direction.

Unlike pharmaceuticals, which are accountable to the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, patent-protected and supported by expensive testing documentation, nutraceuticals are not. However, many manufacturers do choose to undergo costly testing. Like all dietary supplements, the majority of which do not undergo third-party testing, they are regulated by DSHEA, which defines and regulates labeling and claims of benefits related to classic nutrient-deficiency diseases.

Private Quality Control Xymogen is strictly a physician’s line of nutraceuticals, explains Cheryl Burdette, a doctor of naturopathy and director of clinical research and outreach for the company.

“In our manufacturing process, to avoid contamination and validate ingredients, every batch is third-party assayed by an independent laboratory, whereas some

companies only do this for every fifth or 20th lot. Xymogen’s validation extends to packaging and controlling the level of humidity because it affects how ingredients oxidize,” says Burdette.

Gary Kracoff, a registered pharmacist and naturopathic doctor at Johnson Compounding & Wellness, in Waltham, Massachusetts, researches the nutraceuticals that he carries and recommends for his clients.

“I like professional-grade nutraceuticals because their formulas are researched and science-based. They are excellent products for specific purposes. Individuals that take the medical foods come to appreciate their disease-modifying therapeutic results.

While pricier, they include healthier sources of carbohydrates and fats, as well as natural, rather than synthetic nutrients to provide what the body needs to return to a state of balance,” says Kracoff.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings who blogs at LindaSechrist.com.

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DIAL DOWN STRESS How to Stay Calm and Cool

by Lisa Marshall

W

hether from natural disasters, divisive politics, unmanageable workloads or a smartphone culture that makes it tough to unplug, U.S. adults are feeling more strain now than they have at any other time in the past decade, according to the American Psychological Association’s 2017 Stress in America Survey. One in three say their stress has increased in the past year and one in five rate the level at eight or more on a scale of one to 10. About three in five, or 59 percent, say they believe this is “the lowest point in the nation’s history” and nearly two-thirds say concerns about our nation’s future (including its health care, economy and international relations) are key sources of their stress.

“We’re seeing significant stress transcending party lines,” notes Arthur C. Evans Jr., Ph.D., the association’s CEO.

All that stress is having a powerful impact on health, with as many as 80 percent of visits to primary care physicians characterized as stress-related, according to the American Medical Association.

20

Charlotte Edition

Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one. ~Hans Selye Workplace stress accounts for 120,000 deaths a year—more than influenza, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease combined—according to a 2015 Stanford University study.

Yet, empowering news has emerged amid this epidemic of anxiety-related illness. Research shows that by eating right, exercising and changing our mindset about stress itself, we can buffer our bodies from many health hazards.

“Unfortunately, you can’t always avoid the things that stress you out. But you can control how you respond to stress before it takes over your life,” says Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D., a Mill Valley, California, psychologist and author of the recent book The Stress-Proof Brain: Master Your Emotional Response to Stress Using Mindfulness and Neuroplasticity.

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Our Brain on Stress

Whether it’s an urgent email from the boss or a rude motorist driving unsafely, tense situations elicit a physiological response remarkably similar to what might occur if we were chased by a lion.

Deep inside an almond-shaped region of the brain called the amygdala, an alarm goes off, signaling the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol that boost heart rate, usher extra blood to muscles, hasten breathing and spike blood sugar to provide more fuel for the brain to react.

Evolutionarily, this response was key to early human survival, providing the energy boost needed to flee predators. Even today, it has its upside, says Greenberg. “In the short term, stress can be exciting and even beneficial, revving you up so you can put your passion and energy into something.”

But chronic excess can lead to high blood pressure and blood sugar, inflammation, cognitive problems and a hairtrigger response to stress, in which our

body overreacts even to mild annoyances.

It can also, research suggests, accelerate aging by eroding the protective caps on our chromosomes, called telomeres.

“Think of the stress response as an elastic band,” says Dr. Mithu Storoni, a Hong Kong physician and author of the new book Stress Proof: The Scientific Solution to Protect Your Brain and Body — and Be More Resilient Every Day. “If you pull it and it snaps back immediately, that’s fine. But if you pull it too intensely or too frequently, it doesn’t snap back, and there are lots of downstream consequences.”

Stress-Proofing Our Body

Eating right can better protect our bodies, says New York City Registered Dietitian Malina Malkani. She recommends loading up on nutrient-dense, high-fiber foods like leafy greens, beans and lentils, nuts and seeds during stressful times, because they can slow our rate of digestion and minimize unhealthy dips and spikes in blood sugar.

Beneficial, bacteria-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi are other foundational foods for stressresilience, says Storoni, because they can dampen bodily inflammation that arises from chronic tension. They can also replenish bacterial strains like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria which, according to studies of college students, tend to decrease when we feel pushed beyond our limits to handle what’s coming at us.

One 2016 study of 171 volunteers, published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, found that those that ate yogurt containing lactobacillus plantarum daily for two months had fewer markers of stress in their blood. Another study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2007 found that when 132 adults drank a probiotic-infused milk drink daily for three weeks and were then subjected to an anxiety-prone situation, their brains reacted more calmly than those of a control group.

“Probably the most important thing you can do to make your body stressresilient is to maintain a healthy ecosystem of bacteria in your gut,” advises Malkani, who recommends exchanging dessert for low-sugar yogurt every day and taking

Seven Ways to Banish Stress W

by Lisa Marshall

e can take charge and do even more things to keep stress at bay in the first place, says Christine Carter, Ph.D., a University of California, Berkeley, sociologist and author of The Sweet Spot: How to Accomplish More by Doing Less. “I’m all about prevention,” she says. “There are many ways to set up your life to be less stressful.”

1

Multitask less, monotask more:

“The brain was not evolved to multitask and it can be stressful when we try to do so,” says Carter, referencing a Stanford University study. “At the end of the day, we end up feeling fried.” She recommends setting up a “fortress against interruption” for an hour or two each day when we feel most alert. Put the phone on mute, don noise-canceling headphones and ask coworkers or family members to not interrupt your focus on an important priority.

2

Don’t be a chronic media checker: Eighty-six percent of

Americans say they constantly or often check their email, texts or social media accounts, according to the latest Stress in America Survey. Half of U.S. workers say they respond to every email within a half-hour. Carter recommends instead scheduling a block of time at the beginning and end of each day for the task.

During weekends and evenings, disable email and social media notifications.

Research shows the more often we check, the more stressed we are. One recent study of British office workers found that checking email almost immediately boosts heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels, while refraining causes the stress response to subside.

3

Limit choices: Making decisions can

be stressful, and we are all faced with an increasing number of them every day.

To limit a personal decision-making load, get boring. Devise a meal plan that doesn’t vary from week to week (unless it’s a happy creative outlet). Stock the wardrobe with favorite styles of shirts and shoes in different

colors. Select and stick with one brand of natural toothpaste or granola.

4

Don’t overthink things: Rumi nating on past events and relationship problems can be a great source of stress in the present moment. If there’s nothing that can be done about it, stop thinking about it. Literally visualize a stop sign when the thought bubbles up.

5

Daydream: Idle times, like standing

in line, sitting in traffic or showering can allow our brain to rest and recover from hassles. Embrace such opportunities and don’t clutter them up with technology; leave the phone and radio off.

6

Meditate: Invest 10 minutes daily to

sit still, focus on breathing, visualize an image or stare at an object and try to keep thoughts from drifting. Brain imaging studies published in the Brain Research Bulletin show that “Through [such] meditation, it’s possible to rewire your brain to create a new, stronger circuit that keeps your emotional reactivity under control,” says Dr. Mithu Storoni, who has published a book on the topic.

7

Heighten spirituality: Whether it’s regularly attending religious services, yoga meditation sessions or quiet walks in the woods, a spiritual practice can be a powerfully effective means of coping with stress and mitigating its health impacts. Duke University research shows that people regularly engaged in a spiritual practice are more likely to survive heart surgery, recover better from stroke, have shorter hospital stays and become depressed and stressed less often.

“Spirituality connects you to the broader world, which in turn enables you to stop trying to control things all by yourself,” explains Dr. Roberta Lee, an integrative physician, in her book The SuperStress Solution. “When you feel part of a greater whole, it’s easy to understand that you aren’t responsible for everything that happens in life.”

January 2018

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probiotic supplements as well as steering clear of sweetened beverages and refined carbohydrates. The spice turmeric is also a good stress-buster due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help normalize blood sugar, Storoni notes.

Despite our natural craving for comfort food, it’s a good idea to go easy on saturated fats in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic situation, because stress slows fat metabolism. In one recent study, Ohio State University researchers asked 58 women about their previous day’s stressors, and then fed them the fat-loaded equivalent of a double cheeseburger and fries; the stressed-out women burned 104 fewer calories.

“If a woman had a stressful day at work every day and ate a meal like this, she could easily gain seven to 11 pounds in a year,” says study author Jan Kiecolt-Glaser, a professor of psychiatry and psychology and director of the university’s Institute for Behavioral Medicine.

Exercise, too, can help combat stressrelated illness. But Storoni attests that not all exercise is created equal. One recent study in the Journal of Physiology found that in animals daily moderate exercise (the equivalent of a light jog) can boost levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a critical brain protein diminished by stress and sleep deprivation, significantly more than weight training or intense exercise.

On the flip side, excess strenuous exercise (laps around the track or an intense gym workout) can boost inflammation, whither

People with a stress-hardy mindset may temper stress as an “excite-and-delight” challenge in adventurous situations. Others “tendand-befriend”, reaching out to help and comfort in times of tragedy. Studies show that when participants are told, “You’re the kind of person whose performance improves under pressure,” it does—by as much as one-third. ~Harvard Medical School Healthbeat brain cells, and aggravate the physical impacts of stress, says Storoni.

“If you want to exercise to relieve the stress you just experienced, keep it at low intensity,” counsels Storoni. If possible, work out in the morning, as it can boost melatonin levels at night, helping you get to sleep faster, she notes.

Stress-Proofing Our Mindset While diet and exercise can buffer our body from the impacts of chronic stress, a shift in mindset can keep it from becoming chronic in the first place, says Greenberg.“The goal is not to eliminate stress, but to put it in its place—to use its energizing and motivating aspects to take care of what needs to be done, and then

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relax,” and stop paying attention to it. This, she says, requires being mindful of what’s happening in the present moment.

“When you feel your heart racing at the sight of another urgent demand at home or work, stop what you are doing, take a deep breath and tune into what’s happening in your body,” advises Greenberg. She notes that when the highly reactive amygdala “hijacks the brain”, we often say and do things in the heat of the moment that we later regret. Waiting just a moment (like counting to 10) allows the more rational part of our brain (the prefrontal cortex) to kick in. “It allows you to go from panic to, ‘I’ve got this.’”

Greenberg observes that we often feel most stressed when we feel out of control.

When faced with a daunting task, it may help to make a list of the things we have control over and a list of the things we can’t control—then make a plan to act on the manageable one and let the others go.

“Mindfulness is also about keeping our self-judging and ruminating mind at bay, which may keep repeating, ‘I’m not doing enough,’” she says. “Realize that you do not have to listen to every thought that comes into your head. Ask yourself, ‘What is the most important thing for me to focus on right now?’”

Greenberg also says it’s important to aim to broaden and brighten our view in tough times, explaining, “Feeling stress biases your brain to think in terms of avoiding threat and loss, rather than what you can gain or learn from the situation.” Start by jotting down three ways this challenging situation may be beneficial in the long run; also make a list of things and people we are grateful for, she suggests.

“Practicing gratitude helps you realize that you have a choice about what to focus your attention on and you don’t have to let stressors take all the joy out of life,” according to Greenberg. As an added bonus, “You’re less likely to take your stress out on loved ones when you think about what they mean to you and how they have helped you,” she says.

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

inspiration

Expect a Miracle

Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com

Five Ways to Manifest Our Desires

by J. Marie Novak

A

ccording to a Pew Forum study, nearly 80 percent of Americans believe in miracles. When we think we can’t handle burdensome difficulties on our own, we often seek help from a higher power, pleading: Cure me or my loved one of this illness. Aid me in providing for myself and my family. Bring me someone to love. Help me resolve this intensely painful situation. Protect loved ones from the harm they’re subjecting themselves to.

If we want miracles to unfold in our lives, we must actively participate in their manifestation. Here are five ways to manifest more miracles in our lives.

1

Be Grateful for Everything

Gratitude deserves its positive buzz.

When we’re grateful, our energy changes and our light shines. Our perspective shifts from scarcity to abundance. We bring forth divine blessings by being tuned into the giving nature of the creator of all. When we live in a state of gratitude, good people, opportunities and blessings arrive.

2

Stop Using Excuses to Do Nothing

When we take a positive step in our lives—it can be anything—a way forward will often appear that may be unrelated to the blessing we receive. For example, clearing out clutter may clarify a career move.

Taking a course to build a new skill may introduce us to a new friend. In beginning a new exercise routine, we may discover self-confidence in other areas of life.

3

Step Beyond Routine

Step out of routines, broaden horizons and bust through comfort zones. Bumps and bruises may occur, but bravery is rewarded. Miracles are not beyond our grasp, but we may need to extend our reach in ways we’ve never done before.

4

Help Others Receive the Miracles They Pray For

Experience the bliss of being a giver. Share what others need. Sponsor a child’s education.

Give unused belongings to people that desperately need them. Offer words of encouragement. It all matters more than we realize.

5

Trust Intuition

When we listen to our intellect instead of our inner heart-and-soul guidance system, we get turned around and off course.

We all have an inner knowing that can help us get where we want to go. Divine wisdom always trumps the human mind. When we tune into it and trust what it’s telling us, we invite miracles into our lives.

We all have the power to participate in creating miracles for ourselves and others by bringing to fruition what did not seem remotely possible. It’s easy to start by practicing these five miracle-creating strategies.

J. Marie Novak is an author, life transformation mentor and founder of the Believe and Create online community. Learn how to believe in and create the life you were born to live at BelieveAndCreate.com.

January 2018

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sity is strongly linked to increased cancer risk in humans and is assumed so in dogs.

For people, cancer is also connected with excessive glucose, increased insulin sensitivity, inflammation and oxidative stress. Overfeeding a dog is not a loving thing to do.

Javier Brosch/Shutterstock.com

natural pet

Don’t Overfeed Fido Plus Other Tips to Keep a Dog Cancer-Free

by Karen Becker

C

ancer is the leading cause of canine fatalities in the U.S., Europe and Japan. Often diagnosed too late, the risks, heartache and expense of aggressive traditional treatments have many people searching for healthy alternatives. Although the causes are not well understood, we

F E B

can give our companion the best possible chance of prevention.

1Avoid Pet Obesity

In studies across species, caloric restriction has been shown to help prevent tumor development and progression. Obe-

2

Choose an AntiInflammatory Diet

Creating or promoting inflammation raises cancer risk by facilitating abnormal cells to proliferate. Current research suggests cancer is actually a chronic, inflammatory disease. Because cancer cells require the glucose in carbohydrates as an energy source, limit or eliminate carbs present in processed grains, fruits with fructose and starchy vegetables. Cancer cells generally can’t use dietary fats for energy, so appropriate amounts of good-quality fats are nutritionally healthy.

Another major contributor to inflammation is poor-quality, processed pet food, which is typically high in omega-6 fatty acids and low in omega-3. Omega-6s increase inflammation; omega-3s do the reverse.

A healthy, moist dog diet contains real, whole, organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) foods, preferably raw—also plenty of high-quality protein, including muscle meat, organs and bone; moderate amounts of animal fat; high levels of EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids, such as those present in krill oil);

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and some fresh-cut ground veggies; plus antioxidant-rich fruit.

Consider adding both vitamin/mineral and other supplements like probiotics, digestive enzymes, medicinal mushrooms and super green foods. Work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian to determine the best regime.

Exposure 3Reduce to Toxins

Harmful toxins include chemical pesticides like flea and tick preventives, lawn chemicals, tobacco smoke, flame retardants and all common household cleaners.

A six-year study by the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, at Tufts University, showed that exposure to lawn pesticides, specifically those applied by lawn care companies, raised the risk of canine malignant lymphoma up to 70 percent.

Conventional flea and tick preventives are pesticides, whether spot-on treatments, pills, dips, solutions, shampoos or collars.

Chemical spot-on products attracted U.S. Environmental Protection Agency attention based on reports of 40,000 adverse events in 2008, including 600 animal deaths.

Because avoiding all toxins is nearly impossible, consider periodic detoxification based on a vet’s recommendation.

For a dog with constant exposure to toxic chemicals all summer, a daily oral detox protocol is sound. If the only source is a monthly dose of a flea and tick product, limit a detox to the week after each pill or topical treatment.

fully immunized, it’s protected for life.

If titer tests indicate low vaccine levels (unlikely), try a booster for only the specific viruses that titered low, and only those to which the animal has a real risk of exposure.

Combination vaccines (four to eight viruses in one injection), a standard booster at many veterinary practices, is not recommended.

5

Maintain Physical Integrity Until at Least 18 to 24 Months of Age

Studies from Purdue University, the University of California, Davis, and others show a clear link between spaying/neutering and increased cancer rates in dogs, especially large breeds. These include increased risk of osteosarcoma in Rottweilers neutered or

spayed before their first birthday; double the risk of bone cancer in neutered or spayed large, purebred dogs versus intact (not neutered) dogs; and three to four times the cancer rates for spayed female golden retrievers versus intact females. Opting for ovary-sparing spays (hysterectomy) is another option that preserves sex hormones while rendering the animal sterile.

Applying these five suggestions in caring for a dog throughout its life offers a pet a good chance for a cancer-free and overall healthy, high-quality life.

Karen Becker, a doctor of veterinary medicine, is a proactive, integrative practitioner who consults internationally and writes for Mercola Healthy Pets (HealthyPets.Mercola.com).

The number one root of all illness, as we know, is stress. ~Marianne Williamson

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Refuse Unnecessary Vaccinations

To properly maintain a dog’s first line of defense—the immune system—don’t overstimulate it with vaccines. Tailor vaccine protocols to minimize risk and maximize protection, considering the dog’s breed, background, nutritional status and overall vitality.

A good protocol with healthy puppies is to provide a single parvovirus and distemper vaccine at or before 12 weeks of age, and a second set after 14 weeks.

Cautious vets then order a titer test (at a lab that uses the immunofluorescence assay method) two weeks after the last set of vaccines. If the dog has been success-

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healthy kids

activity levels, we can encourage healthier eating habits at home and lead by example.”

Oksana Kuzmina/Shutterstock.com

Portions Matter

Healthy Weight Kids Food Choices that Prevent Obesity

by Amber Lanier Nagle

Small changes in daily eating routines translate into healthier weight for America’s kids.

I

n 2010, President Obama and Michelle Obama launched Let’s Move! as their signature initiative to tackle epidemic levels of U.S. childhood obesity. While modest progress has been made, it remains a public health crisis. A brief by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the obesity rate remained fairly stable at nearly 17 percent between 2011 and 2014 for children 2 to 19 years old.

Caused mainly by inadequate physical activity, unhealthy diets and rare genetic factors, obesity increases the risk of significant health problems, including high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes, plus joint and breathing issues.

“We must launch our own family anti-obesity campaigns,” urges pediatrician Ricardo Riesco, co-owner of Peds Care, in Dalton, Georgia. “Along with increasing

Natural Awakenings M agazine is Ranked 5th Nationally in Cision’s 2016 Top 10 Health & Fi tness Magazines List 26

Charlotte Edition

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In today’s “supersize-me” climate, teaching youngsters about appropriate portion sizes is imperative in fostering healthy eating habits.

“It’s often hard for parents to find time to cook a meal at home,” Riesco acknowledges. “Too often, parents will pick up fast food for dinner, which is typically higher in calories and fat, plus the portion sizes are far too large.”

When parents can’t prepare a meal from scratch, a frozen, boxed meal can be a better alternative than fast food. “The portions are more appropriate, so there’s more control of how much a child eats.”

Tasty frozen organic meals are now available at many grocers.

Rethinking Family Plates “A large part of the obesity problem stems from children consuming sodas and refined, processed, junk and fried foods,” says Daemon “Dr. Dae” Jones, a Washington, D.C., naturopathic physician and author of Eat More Plants. “They are low in nutrients, and high in sugars and calories that pack on the pounds.”

Jones says the best way to combat obesity and form healthy eating habits is to replace processed foods with a whole foods diet plentiful in colorful fruits and vegetables, with sides of whole grains, nuts and seeds, and beans and legumes.

“These foods are high in vitamins, nutrients, fiber, proteins and healthy fats. Lean meats, chicken and fish are good choices for protein, as well.”

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Media Promote Junk Food

Breakfast provides fuel for the body and helps young minds concentrate and learn, so experts warn against skipping or skimping on it. “I tell parents to, ‘Get out of the box,’” says Doctor of Naturopathy JoAnn Yanez, executive director of the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges. “Offer them a balance of fats, proteins and complex carbohydrates.”

She suggests making a batch of pancakes using an extra egg or almond meal for protein, served with fresh fruit and nitrate-free sausage. “I also recommend steel cut oats,” she says. “I make them in advance, and in the morning add in all sorts of good stuff such as fresh fruit, almond meal and almond milk.”

“Although almost everything can be enjoyed in moderation, decreasing or eliminating high-calorie, high-fat, low-nutrient treats can also help children develop healthy eating habits for life and prevent obesity,” says Registered Dietitian Wendy Palmer, manager of child wellness and a certified health education specialist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. “A medium-sized apple or banana, or a cup of baby carrots with hummus, is a nutrient-rich snack for kids. Avoid snacks that have no nutritional value or are coated in sugar.” For more good ideas, see Tinyurl. com/HealthySnackingOptions.

Olesia Bilkei/Shutterstock.com

Breakfast and Snacks

S

by Amber Lanier Nagle

econdary causes of childhood obesity include pervasive junk food marketing. A recent study in Obesity Reviews showed that young people exposed to advertising for foods and beverages high in fat, sugar and salt had a higher incidence of selecting the advertised products instead of healthier options. Parents can use simple strategies to limit their kids’ exposure to this mesmerizing influence.

1 2

Reduce Screen Time—Decrease the amount of time children spend viewing TV, computers, tablets and smartphones.

Teach Kids About Advertising—Watch some ads with children. Talk to them about misleading messaging, underscoring how most advertisers’ intentions aren’t in the audience’s best interests.

3

Fast Forward Through Commercials— Take control and bypass ads using a DVR player or streaming service; mute the TV during ads.

Primary source: WebMD.com

No Sugary Drinks

“There’s a strong correlation between sugary drinks and overweight, obese children,” observes Palmer. “I recommend that parents remove all sugary sodas, sports drinks and juice boxes from their children’s diets. Water and unsweetened seltzer water are great alternatives.”

Palmer notes that many eating patterns are set before a child turns 3, so limiting all sugary drinks, including juices, is an important component of teaching young children healthier eating habits that will last a lifetime.

Studies suggest a strong link between obese children and obese adults, so for parents concerned that their child’s cute baby fat has turned into something more, the time to act is now.

Amber Lanier Nagle is a freelance writer in Northwest Georgia (AmberNagle.com).

January 2018

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conscious eating

EAT WHEAT AGAIN Eight Ways to Restore Gut Health

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704-499-3327

28

Charlotte Edition

by John Douillard

he New York University Langone Medical Center recently reported that 74 percent of Americans experience some form of digestive distress, a quarter are obese and more than 100 million U.S. adults are pre-diabetic and don’t know it. While many blame such problems on eating wheat, some food scientists disagree, including those citing two major studies by Harvard researchers; following more than 100,000 people for 25 years, they concluded that those eating the most wheat compared to low-gluten folks had a 13 percent lower diabetes risk and no greater risk of heart disease.

While the standard American diet, which includes highly processed wheat, is likely responsible for many of these health concerns, plenty of science links a diet rich in whole grains, including whole wheat, to weight loss, better digestion and lower blood sugar. The Mediterranean Diet, replete with whole grains and wheat, is still revered as one of the healthiest-known diets. Centenarians that live in the famed “blue zones”, recognized for their longevity-enhancing environment and lifestyles, eat a non-processed, wholefood diet rich in whole grains and wheat.

AwakeningCharlotte.com

Many Americans that are gluten-sensitive today digested wheat fine when they were young. At some point, our ability to digest foods that are a bit harder to digest, like wheat and dairy, became compromised. It’s possible to reboot.

Delete Processed Foods

The first step toward reestablishing digestive strength is avoiding all processed foods. A study in the journal Diabetes Care linked a processed food diet to a 141 percent increase in belly fat, high blood sugar and high cholesterol. It further showed that a diet of whole grains, including wheat, reduced the risk of these health concerns by 38 percent.

Monitor these ingredients to achieve a healthier diet. n Avoid all added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Allow nothing more than six grams of naturally occurring sugar per serving. n Avoid fried foods and baked goods made with refined cooking oils used to preserve them like bread, muffins, cookies, energy bars, most packaged foods and chips. n Eat bread that’s only made of organic whole wheat, salt water and starter.

Restore Liver and Gallbladder Function

Highly processed vegetable oils are used as preservatives in most packaged foods, including bread. Processing these oils renders them indigestible. Linked to congestion of the liver and gallbladder, they disable liver bile so it can’t break down either good or bad fats, also making it insufficient to buffer stomach acids. Without adequate bile production to neutralize stomach acid, the stomach won’t produce the needed acid to digest proteins like gluten and the casein in dairy. This malady has effected a huge spike in gallbladder surgeries and epidemic levels of obesity, high blood sugar and food intolerances.

To boost bile flow, enjoy these foods daily: n Eat one red beet and one apple a day— either raw, cooked, juiced or blended. Add celery and make a bile-flow smoothie. n Consume one teaspoon of both coconut oil and high-quality olive oil per day.

n Eat more artichokes, bitter roots and leafy greens. n Drink fennel and fenugreek tea with meals.

Strengthen Stomach Fire

Instead of taking digestive enzymes or a hydrochloric acid-based stomach acid pill, stimulate the stomach to make its own acid and the small intestine and pancreas to produce digestive enzymes. This is best done regularly with the following five spices: n Use ginger, cumin, coriander, cardamom and fennel.

Studies published in journals such as Molecular Nutrition & Food Research and the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry suggest that when these five spices are used together—as a supplement, in cooking or to flavor food—they act as a total upper digestive reset. These five-star spices: 4 Stimulate digestion 4 Increase bile flow, pancreatic and small

intestine enzyme activity, and fat and sugar metabolism 4 Decrease H. pylori, an opportunistic acid-producing microbe, from adhering to the stomach 4 Decrease gas and bloating 4 Support optimal weight, microbiology health, growth of good gut bacteria and elimination 4 Act as powerful free-radical scavengers

Following these simple steps of nutrition will set gluten sufferers on the right path to retraining the body to digest and enjoy wheat again.

John Douillard, a Boulder, CO, doctor of chiropractic and creator of the wellness website LifeSpa.com, is the former director of player development and nutrition advisor to the New Jersey Nets NBA team. He is author of the book Eat Wheat: A Scientific and Clinically-Proven Approach to Safely Bringing Wheat and Dairy Back into Your Diet. Learn more at EatWheatBook.com.

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AwakeningCharlotte.com

calendar of events NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Calendar@AwakeningCharlotte.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or to submit online, visit AwakeningCharlotte.com.

MONDAY, JANUARY 1 31 Day Yoga Challenge Begins – Kick off the new year with this transformational 31- day challenge. Cost includes 31 days of unlimited Yoga and discounts on various goods and services. The more classes completed the bigger the gift certificate to Gumbo Goods. Check Okra’s website, stop by or call the studio for more details. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3 Prenatal Yoga – 5:45pm. Join Julie and other Moms-to-be each Wednesday for a yoga flow especially designed for pregnant women. $16 drop in. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443.

OkraCharlotte.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 Reiki First Degree Training – Dec 6-7. 9:30am-6pm, Sat, Sun. A 3-month (32 hour) program taught by highly accomplished Master Teacher, Nancy Bunt. It will prepare you for a personal self-practice, and give you the skills and confidence to offer Reiki to your family, friends, pets and plant life. 26 CE hours (NCBTMB).

Tuition: $495. 5200 Park Rd, Ste 105. 704-996-4079.

AReikiLife.com. Nancy@AReikiLife.com Guided Meditation Drop-in Class – 10:30-11:30pm.

20 minutes of guided-seated meditation followed by 20 minutes of walking meditation with Buddhist teacher David Cross. Time for Q&A. Free. 704-896-3111.

Meetup.com/TheNook/events/calendar/2018-01 Karma Donation Yoga – 12:30pm. Yoga for a cause! Each Saturday join Okra in supporting a local Charlotte non-profit organization, all proceeds collected from the class will go directly to the organization chosen each month, come flow and help your community at the same time. $7 suggested donation. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443.

OkraCharlotte.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 Traditional Usui Reiki Level 2 – 9am-6pm. Stimulate further development of intuition, increase Reiki energy you can channel. Receive a study manual and certificate of completion. Carolyn Sheehan, CMHT, CRM, facilitator. RSVP by Jan 3. $225.

704-896-3111. Meetup.com/TheNook/events/ calendar/2018-01 Queen City Center for Spiritual Living – 10:30am. An open-minded spiritual community that has a totally positive and practical philosophy of life.

We celebrate the mysticism of faith combined with the clarity of universal principle. We invite you to awaken to your spiritual magnificence. First Sunday of every month. The Double Tree Hotel, 6300 Morrison Blvd. 704-643-4970. QueenCityCSL.com Unity of Charlotte – 10:30am. Rev Marty Bacher joins Unity of Charlotte as Senior Minister and delivers a powerful message. 401 E Arrowood Rd. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.org

Predictions for 2018 with Susan Reynolds – 1-3pm.

The year 2018 promises to be one full of unexpected surprises and dramatic happenings. Astrologer and intuitive, Susan Reynolds, will look at the New Year and share her predictions for what is in store for our nation, our economy, and the world. Don’t miss it.

Love offering. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704-599-1180. SLCofCharlotte.net

MONDAY, JANUARY 8 T’ai Chi Chih – 7:15-8:15pm. Learn the ancient art of T’ai Chi Chih with Pia each Monday evening.

This gentle moving meditation has a calming effect on the mind and emotions aiding to release tension throughout the body. $16 drop in. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 Intro to Mindful Based Stress Reduction – 6:458pm. Learn about an 8-week program that teaches mindfulness as a means of learning greater balance and effective strategies for an improved sense of wellness in one’s own life. Free. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Bldg 1, Ste 200C, Community/movement room #2. 843-364-5921. Jude@ AKeenMind.com. AKeenMind.com Holistic Health Network Meeting – 6:45pm. The Holistic Nurses of Charlotte invite you to hear Caroline Noble, RN, a massage therapist, speak about her practice and will emphasize the therapeutic benefits of massage therapy. Trained at the Therapeutic Massage Training Institute, she has been in practice for 20 years. Free. WelcomeRelief.com. St Gabriel’s Catholic Church Ministry Bldg, 3016 Providence Rd. Info: Belle Radenbaugh 704-575-1153. NCHolisticNetwork.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 12 Twist Kids Yoga Teacher Training Level I – Jan 1215. Fri 6-9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm, Mon 9am-5:30pm.

Learn the foundations for teaching yoga to children ages 4-12 with Mary Beth and Shona. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 Mindfulness, the Four Keys – 8:30am-1:30pm.

Learn mindfulness meditation and develop a life that is meaningful and in alignment with your values.

This introductory program will be followed by an 8-week Mindfulness, The Foundations Course. $69.

Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Bldg 1, 2nd floor, Library. 304-952-4665. AssaadMounzer@ gmail.com. MindfulMDCoaching.com Winning the Weight Game-Winning the Game of Life – 10:30-11:30am. In this new and innovative class, learn how to control the thoughts that derail your efforts to be the best you. Surround yourself with love, support and positive mindful thoughts. $20. 704-8963111. Meetup.com/TheNook/events/calendar/2018-01 Aphrodite’s Mirror: A Women’s Spiritual Wisdom and Healing Circle Intro – 1-3pm. Are you curious about exploring ways to experience

using your personal power in ways to create more choices for your life? If yes, then come and connect with other awakening women for discussion, sacred ceremony and an opportunity to align more fully with your unique brilliance.

Preregistration required. Free. Spiral Path Healing Arts Center, 7810 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Ste 6. Belinda Haverdill 704-540-2855. Belinda@ SpiralPathHealingArtsCenter.com Medicine Wheel Healing – 1:30-3pm. The Native American Medicine Wheel used for generations to promote health and healing. Receive a Shamanic Reiki healing session inside the Medicine Wheel with Salem Wolf Heart. $20. 704-896-3111. Meetup. com/TheNook/events/calendar/2018-01 Bowspring Basics Workshop – 1:45-3:15pm.

Join Linda Oelschlaeger and learn about this new alignment system called Bowspring. Strengthen feet, calves, hamstrings and glutes to return to the natural curves of the spine. $16 drop in. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443.

OkraCharlotte.com Reiki Share Circle - 3-4pm. For anyone dealing with cancer, chronic illness, pain, fatigue, insomnia, depression, etc or just curious about the extraordinary aspect of energy healing. $5. 704-896-3111.

Meetup.com/TheNook/events/calendar/2018-01

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

markyourcalendar Intuitive Messages thru Art and Music with Melinda Radcliff and Mike Love Become inspired by music and connect with your angels, higher self, guides, religious figures, and ancestors. Place your message and images on canvas with paint, using brushes, strings, paper, leaves, sponges, and even your hands, for the full sensory experience. Take home a painting. All supplies provided.

January 14 · 1-3pm $45 Register:704-662-0946.

Ahlara International, 155 Joe V Knox Ave, Mooresville

AhlaraInternational.com SoulCollage with Cindy Ballaro – 1-4pm. SoulCollage is a gentle, playful, and often joyful way of exploring your life deep self. It is a creative and artistic activity that anyone can do. We will be creating your own personal collages using magazine images, scissors and glue. Produce images full of depth and meaning. Preregistration required. $20.

Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704-599-1180. SLCofCharlotte.net

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16 Charlotte Writers’ Club – 7-8:30pm. 3rd Tuesday monthly meeting. Annual showcase of members.

A dozen or so selected members will delight us with their literary talent, reading form their best work. Find out what your fellow Charlotte writers are creating and show your support. Poetry Con-

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Free Me from Sugar 6-week Sugar Detox – 7:30 FREE kick-off coaching call. In just 6 short weeks, you can change your relationship with sugar. Take the ‘all-in’ or the ‘step-in’ approach and celebrate a bountiful, healthy new year full of fresh foods and free from sugar. $199 online program. Merritt_Jennie@namastegreen.com. FreeMeFromSugar.com

test opens. Guests welcome. Providence United Methodist Church, 2810 Providence Rd, Rm 104.

CharlotteWritersClub.org

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18 Okra 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Registration Deadline – 7pm. Join Brooke Carlson every third weekend beginning Jan 19 through May 27 for Okra’s Yoga Alliance Certified Training program. Delve deeper into the practice of yoga and build a solid foundation to teach others. $2,600. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443.

OkraCharlotte.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 SAGEST: Study and Gathering for EarthCentered Spirituality and Teachings – 7:309:30pm. SAGEST is a monthly gathering to study and discuss earth-centered spirituality. This is an open and welcoming group designed to facilitate open dialog and understanding. This month we will explore the element of Air. Info: sagest.clt@ gmail.com. Love offering. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704-599-1180.

SLCofCharlotte.net

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 Certified Reiki Level I – Beginner energy healing and empowerment class. Learn hand placement system, history, Japanese techniques, grounding, protection, and clearing. Includes initiations, ICRT manual, certificate, discussion, hands-on practice, ongoing support. $205. 8301 University Exec Pk Dr, Ste 106. Register: AReikiPlace.com

markyourcalendar Ahlara’s Mind, Body, Spirit Expo Private 15-minute sessions with holistic healers and intuitive readers. Heal with reflexology, amethyst bio-mat. Connect with angels and spirit guides. Sessions individually priced.

January 20 · 12-4pm Register:704-662-0946.

Ahlara International, 155 Joe V Knox Ave, Mooresville

AhlaraInternational.com

Remember, PLANS CHANGE! Please call ahead to confirm dates and times.

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Customer Appreciation Day – 12-4pm. Celebrating 10 years in business. Customers receive 10% off all merchandise (in-store only), except books. Gift with purchase! Mama Bessie’s Place, 3010 Monroe Rd, Shop 104. 704-632-9911 Introduction to Insight (Vipassana) Meditation – 1-4pm. Fundamentals of Insight Meditation, exploring how it supports mindfulness. $15 (no one turned away) plus donation for the leader. Milford Chapel, Park Rd Baptist Church, 3900 Park Rd. IMCCharlotte.org. Register: caofnc@yahoo.com Leaky Gut, IBS, Food Allergies-Free Lecture – 2-4pm (serving food). Cause and Holistic Corrections. Dr Cushing is an acknowledged expert on the diagnosis and treatment of these ubiquitous conditions, and had 38+ years of clinical/holistic experience treating them successfully. He will give you invaluable tips during the presentation and will offer a Q&A period. Food, snacks and drink will be available. Reservation required: 704-776-4185.

Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 Certified Reiki Level II – 9am-6pm. Empower your Reiki practice with Power, Harmony and Distance symbols, distant treatments, new techniques.

ICRT Licensed teacher Bryce Goebel offers initiation, manual, certificate, demonstrations, hands-on practice, ongoing support. $205. 8301 University Exec Pk Dr, Ste 106. Register: AReikiPlace.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24 Sierra Club Central Piedmont Chapter Meeting – 6:30 pizza, 7pm announcements, info on a variety of environmental issues. Check website for program details. Free and open to the public. Mahlon Adams Pavilion, Freedom Park, 2435 Cumberland Ave. GPfeffer@carolina.rr.com. CharlotteSierraClub.org Sierra Club Central Piedmont Conservation Committee – 8:30pm (immediately following Sierra Club meeting). All welcome, you need not be a member. We will discuss the Duke Energy rate hike hearing scheduled for the end of January, and begin planning our activities for the rest of 2018.

Gerry_Kingsley@yahoo.com. 704-907-9851

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 Seniors and Military Discount Day – 10am6pm. Seniors and military personnel receive 5% off all merchandise (in-store only), except books.

Just ask! Mama Bessie’s Place, 3010 Monroe Rd, Shop 104. 704-632-9911 Essential Oils Series – 6:15pm. Join Amy and Hal each Thursday to learn how essential oils can help support everyday needs like immune system, boost energy, aid in relaxation and sleep. $16 drop in. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

AwakeningCharlotte.com

Aphrodite’s Mirror: A Women’s Spiritual Wisdom and Healing Circle Intro – 1-3pm. Are you curious about exploring ways to experience using your personal power in ways to create more choices for your life? If yes, then come and connect with other awakening women for discussion, sacred ceremony and an opportunity to align more fully with your unique brilliance. Preregistration required. Free. Sanctuary Imports, 822 Lamar Ave. Belinda Haverdill 704-5402855. Belinda@SpiralPathHealingArtrsCenter.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Life after Life-Free Film and Discussion – 7pm.

The film addresses the question, what happens when we die? It documents the experiences of six individuals who had near-death experiences (pronounced dead and revived) and features Dr Raymond Moody, a leading researcher and authority on NDE. Free, donations appreciated. Milford Chapel, Park Rd Church, 3900 Park Rd.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Unity of Charlotte – 10:30am. Rev David Hiller returns to the pulpit to present a spiritual message for 2018. 401 E Arrowood Rd. 704-523-0062.

UnityofCharlotte.org Mind Power Dynamics Workshop – 12pm. Rev David Hiller presents a revolutionary workshop. 401 E Arrowood Rd. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.org Final Expense Educational Seminar with Agents from Lincoln Heritage – 1-2:30pm. Join licensed agents Kathleen Lamb, Curtis Fritz, and Chenise Fritz for this talk about the different types of life insurance.

Learn what licensed professionals know, the difference between term, whole life, and universal life insurances, and about funeral pre-planning. You can also sign up for a free consultation. Love offering. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704599-1180. slcofcharlotte@att.net. SLCofCharlotte.net

MONDAY, JANUARY 29 T’ai Chi Chih – 7:15-8:15pm. Learn the ancient art of T’ai Chi Chih with Pia each Monday evening.

This gentle moving meditation has a calming effect on the mind and emotions aiding to release tension throughout the body. $16 drop in. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 30 Carolinas Weight Loss Institute Open House and Ribbon Cutting – Join us and Gaston County Chamber of Commerce for an Open House and Ribbon Cutting.

The community is invited to tour our facility with expanded services for our patients. Attendees can also schedule a free consultation at this time. Free. Carolinas Weight Loss Institute, 216 S. New Hope Rd, Gastonia.

704-271-9757. Infog@CWLI.net. CWLI.net

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 Prenatal Yoga – 5:45-6:45pm. Join Julie and other Moms-to-be each Wednesday for a yoga flow specially designed for pregnant women. $16 drop in. 1912 Commonwealth Ave. 704-266-1443.

OkraCharlotte.com

plan ahead SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Stress Busters Workshop – Feb 3rd and 10th.

1:30pm. This workshop will address new ways to think about stress—how to learn to employ the feeling of stress, fine-tune it and use it as a skill to activate and enhance one’s own personal vitality. The Kent Cook Institute at The Nook, 400 North Harbor Place Dr, Davidson. Register at 704-896-3111.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17

markyourcalendar Enhanced States of Consciousness: A Workshop from Zen Within In this experiential learning workshop, learn how to cultivate a new relationship with enhanced states of consciousness. You will learn how these ‘peak experiences’ can be leveraged to bring about huge leaps in personal growth and spiritual development.

You will be guided through 6 multi-sensory self-activation techniques will harness the power of all 6 of your senses to raise your frequency and enhance your overall wellbeing. Each participant will go home with special gifts from the workshop including recordings of all the self-activation techniques for at home practice.

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February 17 Be Yoga Carmel 7510 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Ste 2B.

ZenWithinCoaching.com/ enhancedstates

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 REFRESH 2018 Wellness Expo – 11am-5pm.

Harness your power for better health with the practitioners at Elemental Healing Charlotte and special gifts. Demos, prizes, and giveaways. $10. 5200 Park Rd, Bldg 1, 2nd floor (all event rooms). events@elementalhealingcharlotte.com.

ElementalHealingCharlotte.com

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 ABCs of Creating Conditions for Healing – Discover 3 key ingredients for thriving in every area of life. Free. Main Street Books, 126 S Main St, Davidson. 704-892-6841

FRIDAY, MARCH 17 Soul Coaching Training Program – Mar 17- 23.

Learn a coaching system that helps to clear away old thinking, as well as emotional and physical clutter, and help clients design a life to discover their true purpose. Mountain Retreat and Learning Center, 3872 Dillard Rd, Highlands, NC. YourSoulLovesTheTruth.com/registration

January 2018

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on going events NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Calendar@AwakeningCharlotte.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or to submit online, visit AwakeningCharlotte.com.

sunday

monday

Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte - 10:30am.

Rev. Rebecca Nagy, spiritual leader. A nondenominational spiritual community, grounded in the Universal Truth Teachings of New Thought and Ageless Wisdom. Services followed by Master Mind and Fellowship. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704-599-1180.

SLCofCharlotte@att.net. SLCofCharlotte.org.

A Course in Miracles Study Group – 7pm.

Ongoing study and discussion of ACIM. Jim and Kay Fuller have been facilitating ACIM studies for over 25 years. Park Rd Church, Room CC505, 3900 Park Rd. 704-619-9029. Find us on Facebook, Meetup and CharlotteSpiritualCenter.org.

Unity of Charlotte Sunday Celebration Service – 10:30am. Spirit-led and Heart-driven describes this welcoming spiritual community that offers spiritual enrichment classes throughout the week and a vibrant Sunday Celebration Service with terrific music and inspiring messages. Youth Program ages 4+ avail. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.org.

Unity Spiritual Center – 10:30am. “Casual Service”. Positive music, centering meditations and inspiring metaphysical talks. We are a spiritual community (not a religion) grounded in Unity Metaphysics, A Course in Miracles, and related Eastern Teachings. Milford Chapel, Park Rd Church, 3900 Park Rd. 704-619-9029. Find us on Facebook, Meetup and CharlotteSpiritualCenter.org.

QiGong Sunday – 1-2pm. 3 traditions combined for health, confidence and great qigong energy. $20/class or $40/monthly. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200C, Community room #1 or #2. 704-9938321. Jiyad7@gmail.com. CharlotteReflexology.com.

A Course in Miracles Study Group – 7pm. Ongoing study and discussion of ACIM. Jim & Kay Fuller have been facilitating ACIM studies for over 25 years. Bonnie Briar Townhomes, Elm Ln at Hwy 51. 704-619-9029. Find us on Facebook, Meetup and CharlotteSpiritualCenter.org.

Yin Yoga – 4-5pm. Great class for healing injuries, recovering from illness or surgery. Pricing online.

Elemental Healing Charlotte, Ste 200C, Community/movement room #1 or 2. theyogaoasis@ icloud.com. TheYogaOasis.com.

tuesday Organic Marketplace Senior Tuesday – 9am7pm. Everyone 55 and older receives 10% discount. Reliable community partner, local source for education, organic foods, personal care, products, supplements, aromatherapy, organic wine/beer, and pet products. Follow on Facebook/Instagram for specials. 1012 S New Hope Rd, Gastonia. 704-864-0605.

OrganicMarketplaceNC.com.

Weekly Daytime Meditation – 12-1pm. Brief instruction period, 30-minute silent meditation, and a short period of questions and answers. Donation. Park Rd Baptist Church, Milford Chapel, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte.

InsightMeditationCharlotte.org.

Meditation and Discussion –7pm. Meditation (guided & silent) followed by a short teaching and discussion. Appropriate for beginners and long-time meditators. Park Rd Church, Room CC503, 3900 Park Rd. 704-619-9029. Find us on Facebook, Meetup and CharlotteSpiritualCenter.org.

wednesday The School of Spirituality – 10:30am-12pm.

On-going class with Barbara Ruff is a discussion on spiritual topics relevant to our changing world and search for deeper meaning. All welcome. Not meeting Dec 20. Love offering. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-523-0062.

UnityofCharlotte.org.

Detoxify your hair routine!

Complimenting Nature’s Beauty

34

Charlotte Edition

Weekly Wednesday Meditation – 7-9pm. Practice instructions for those new to meditation at 7pm.

Silent mindfulness meditation at 7:30pm, followed by dharma talk and discussion. Donation. Park Rd Baptist Church, Milford Chapel, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. IMCCharlotte.org.

Wellness Wednesdays – 7-8:30pm. Learn different elements of physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness with a variety of teachers on a variety of topics. Check website for details $20 suggested love offering. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704-599-1180. SLCofCharlotte@att.net. SLCofCharlotte.org.

Heartfulness Meditation – 7:30pm. This group meets for a period of silent meditation. The process begins promptly at 7:30pm, so we suggest you arrive around 7:15. More info: Heartfulness.org. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E Arrowood Rd, Charlotte. 704-5230062. UnityofCharlotte.org.

thursday A Course in Miracles - 9:30am. A transformative ongoing study group open to all. Where philosophy, psychology, and religion end, A Course in Miracles begins. Freewill offering. Unity of Charlotte, 401 E. Arrowood Road, Charlotte. 704-523-0062, UnityOfCharlotte.org.

friday Free Weight Loss Consultations – Mon-Fri. Early morning and lunch appointments. Long distance patients also accepted. Personalized program designed around patient’s unique metabolism. Carolinas Weight Loss Institute, 216 S. New Hope Rd, Gastonia. 704-271-9757. Infog@CWLI.net. CWLI.net.

saturday All Levels Vinyasa – 11am-12pm. This 60-minute class features a nice meditative flow, consistent with the nurturing style of teaching that serves every body. See you at Noda Yoga. $16 drop in.

3201 N Davidson, Ste B. 704-560-6144. manager@ nodayoga.com. NodaYoga.com.

Friends are the siblings God

professional organic color line essential oil based products and services exclusive appointments in relaxing studio atmosphere

Organic Salon LKN

Conversation with Beatrice – 11am-5pm. Readings with Angels, Elemental, Deities, Zodiac. By appointment only. $60/hour Mama Bessie’s Place, 3010 Monroe Rd. 704-293-3578. Beatrice Alvina Bates: beatricebatesllc@gmail.com.

never gave us. ~Mencius

Lea Lally 704-883-6564 organicsalonlkn.com Mooresville, NC

AwakeningCharlotte.com

January 2018

35

community resource guide

FLOAT THERAPY FLOAT CAROLINA

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 Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE EMPOWER LIFE CENTER

Camilo Sanchez, LAc, MOM, MQG 704-542-8088 EmpowerLifeCenter.com 28 years of experience in acupuncture, Chinese medicine and integrated health. Specializing in identifying and correcting the root cause of your health concerns.

Pain conditions, digestive disorders, stress, women’s health and chronic disorders. Classes in authentic Qigong, Tai Chi and Taoist yoga.

CHRONIC & DIFFICULT CASES HAAS WELLNESS CENTER 3315 Springbank Ln, Ste 102 704-837-2420 HaasWellnessCenters.com

Specializing in chronic and difficult cases and holistic and wellness care. We identify and treat the root cause of your health issues. Call today for a free 15-minute consultation. See ad, page 11.

COLONICS

TWO TREES ACUPUNCTURE

Paula Kearney, L.Ac. & David Bonilla, L.Ac. 1318-A3 Central Ave, Plaza Midwood 704-770-1318 TwoTreesAcupuncture.com

ody & Mind

ng For Help?

Migraines Of All Types Chiropractic Headache Expert oncussion & Cranial Pain Syndrome s & Chemical Sensitivity Headaches Upper Cervical TMJ Headaches Fatigue / Allergies / Candida Fibromyalgia / Chronic Fatigue Chiropractic Headache Expert ation / Virus’s / Recurring Infections 2101 Sardis Road Thyroid / Autoimmune / Hair Loss Hot Flashes / Stubborn Weight Loss

Providing private and community acupuncture services, herbal medicine, bodywork sessions, classes and more to the city of Charlotte.

See ad, page 14.

HC WELLNESS CENTER & SPA 1308 E Garrison Blvd, Gastonia 704-823-1577 HCWellnessCenterAndSpa.com

Our principle service is Colon Hydrotherapy, but we also offer a wide variety of other services. We o ff e r b o t h t r a d i t i o n a l a n d alternative therapies to assist clients in achieving optimal health, wellness and balance.

ALLERGY

HOLISTIC DOCTOR OF CHARLOTTE

North, Ste 203 704-776-4185 ptoms, Dr.fdesk@holisticdoc.com Cushing has the s clinical holistic experience, ica’s leading health guru’s HolisticDoc.com health issues.

40 years experience as a Holistic Doctor. Highly effective at treating ADD, ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Hormone Imbalances, Allergies, IBS, CFS/ Fibromyalgia, Headaches. See ad, page 29.

,

C. Consult

lotte, NC

ASTROLOGY

DENTISTRY KEMPTER HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

Drs. John Kempter and Eric Kempter 1000 Copperfield Blvd, Ste 160, Concord 704-782-0797 KempterDentistry.com Biologically minded family dental office offering 3D digital dentistry, preventative dentistry, safe mercury removal and sleep apnea screenings. In a relaxed and caring environment, all patients are given devoted time. Call the office today to request a new patient consultation. See ad, page 19.

SOUL OF CHIRON

Dorothy Taylor, CH Charlotte 919-889-0457 SoulOfChiron.com Info@SoulOfChiron.com

EDUCATION KENT-COOK INSTITUTE

Sharing intuitive and insightful awareness for healing, direction and success in life for over 12 years. Discover gifts and overcome challenges reaching your full potential and happiness.

Certified Consulting Hypnotist, Astrologer and Life Coach.

36

Charlotte Edition

400 N Harbor Pl, Ste C, Davidson 704-896-3111 KentCookInstitute.com Online or on campus. Accredited School with classes in Mediumship Development, Spiritual Healing and Philosophical Metaphysics. The Kent-Cook Institute on Lake Norman has a full curriculum. See ad, page 7.

AwakeningCharlotte.com

Float Center and Salt Spa 105-D Waxhaw Professional Park Dr Waxhaw • FloatCarolina.com Charlotte’s first dedicated float center offering Floatation and Salt Room Therapies. Visit us to relax, release stress and tension and refresh your mind, body and spirit. Purchase sessions online today. Receive 10% off with promo “floatNA”.

GIFT SHOPS THE NOOK STORE

400 N Harbor Place Dr, Ste C, Davidson 704-896-3111 KentCookInstitute.com The Nook Store, a Divinely Unique Mystical Boutique on Lake Norman, the gem of The Nook. We carry the tools you need for your spiritual journey. See ad, page 7.

HOLISTIC COUNSELING VIVIAN PERALTA-MESA, LICENSED THERAPIST 3900 Park Rd Park Road Baptist Church grounds 704-910-7942 KidsFamilyCounseling.com

Experiencing ongoing difficulties that are not getting better? Vivian offers guidance, in a safe and caring environment, to identify and overcome obstacles that keep you from feeling more satisfied in life. See ad, page 33.

HOMEOPATHY CAROLINAS NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Dr Michael Smith 1114 Sam Newell Rd, Ste A 704-708-4404 CarolinasNaturalHealth.com

C h a r l o t t e ’s o n l y d o c t o r specializing in homeopathy – a power system of natural medicine that stimulates your body’s natural ability to heal, without side effects. Anxiety/ Depression, ADHD, Behavioural issues, Eczema, auto-immune disease, hormonal imbalance, and much more. See ad, page 27.

HYPNOSIS SIMPLE STEPS TO CALM YOUR MIND Heidi E. Kent, C.Ht. & Marsha G. Cook, C.Ht. 704-896-3111

Manage your fears and change your belief systems and your life with the user-friendly tools we’ve developed.

Specializing in Hypnosis, Past Lives and Spiritual Healing. Relief is an appointment away. See ad, page 7.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE CAROLINA FAMILY HEALTHCARE Maureen Scott, ANP-BC 704-847-4000 CarolinaFamilyHealthcare.com

Maureen Scott is a practicing adult nurse practitioner who has been Fellowship trained in Integrative Medicine through the University of Arizona. She treats physical ailments and the person as a whole-emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Carolina Family Healthcare is a full service primary care facility located in the Ballantyne area. See ad, back cover.

DEVINE INTEGRATIVE HEALTHCARE, PLLC Stacey E Devine, MD 452 S Main St, Ste 130, Davidson 704-997-5449 DevineIntegrative.com

As one of the few fellowship trained, board certified Integrative Medicine physicians in the Charlotte area, Dr. Devine blends evidence-based complementary and conventional medicine to care for the whole person.

INTEGRATIVE PEDIATRICIAN INFINITE HEALTH, PLLC

Sheila Kilbane, MD Deborah Allen, Integrative Pharmacist 2201 Park Rd, Ste B, Charlotte 704-626-6771 SheilaKilbane.com Dr. Kilbane is a board-certified pediatrician who trained in integrative medicine. She works with families to find the root cause of illnesses such as: reflux, eczema, allergies, recurrent ear and sinus infections, asthma, constipation and abdominal pain. Deborah Allen leads a gut restoration program for adults.

INTUITIVE SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE MARY E. AMON

Mary the Metaphysical Maven 808-283-5249 Mary@TailoredWisdom.com

NATURAL DOCTOR DR. MEGAN DING, ND

Charlotte Natural Wellness 10722 Carmel Commons Blvd, Ste 450 704-543-5540 DrMeganDing.com

Mary’s spiritually guided sessions refresh energy fields, restoring balance in your life. Discover new tools in Tailored Wisdom sessions that help you visualize your life path, access your selfworth, and develop more meaningful relationships with healthy boundaries.

LIFE COACH FIND THE TRUE ME

Dorothy Taylor, CLC, CH Charlotte 919-889-0457 TrueMeCoach.com Info@TrueMeCoach.com Find a clear path to your true center of power and happiness and reach your full potential through the power of your own mind.

Dorothy Taylor Certified Life Coach, Consulting Hypnotist and Professional Astrologer with over 12 years experience.

Charlotte’s only naturopathic doctor specializing in natural cancer support. Dedicated to treating the whole body and empowering you to improve your health using natural medicine.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN CAROLINAS NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Dr Michael Smith 1114 Sam Newell Rd, Ste A 704-708-4404 • CarolinasNaturalHealth.com

See ad, page 27.

Diabetes, Depression, Digestive Disorders, ​A llergies, Autoimmune disease, A ​ nxiety​,​ADHD. C h a r l o t t e ’s o n l y d o c t o r specializing in homeopathy. We focus on treating YOU to uncover the cause of your health condition and empower you to better health!​

LYMPHATIC CLEANSE JENNIFER DILLON, DC, CCN 421-B S. Sharon Amity Rd 704-333-9991 DillonNaturalHealth.com

The Light Beam Generator is a non-invasive oxygen based detoxification system helping to restore function and assist the lymphatic system. When this circulatory system is congested, the whole system becomes toxic causing chronic inflammation as well as many other issues. See ad, page 25.

MASSAGE JEFFREY SHOAF, LMBT (#14847) Certified Yoga Therapist 726 E. Blvd. Charlotte, NC 309-287-0576 JBShoaf113.wix.com/jeffreyshoaf

Optimism is

the faith that leads to achievement.

Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. ~Helen Keller

Offering therapeutic massage, bodywork, and yoga therapy, utilizing myofascial release, t r i g g e r p o i n t t h e r a p y, a n d physical assessment tools for a collaborative approach to client centered health!

January 2018

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OF THE EARTH WELLNESS, LLC

CH Text A to RNA 64 to 84 T rec flip eiv 2

Dr. Dave Hamilton 10715 Shopton Rd W, Charlotte 980-272-1897 OfTheEarthWellness.com

A community of healing and nonjudgment. You are an individual and encouraged to be an active participant in your own health.

We treat a variety of health concerns from the common cold to chronic illness. Begin your journey today. Plant the seed of health. Grow balanced naturally.

See ad, page 7.

ed bo o ma k of igital gaz you ine r

ORGANIC SALON ORGANIC SALON LKN

591 E Plaza Dr, Mooresville 704-883-6564 OrganicSalonLKN.com

breathe

Harnessing nature’s beauty with professional organic products while creatively designing the ideal hair routine and style to fit your life. Call today for a free consultation.

See ad, page 2 and 34.

PSYCHIC

First Saturday each month from 1-4pm Professional Certified Tarot, Numerology, Palmistry, Medicine Cards, Spiritual Readings. Fees begin at $40. Call today for an appointment. See ad, page 7.

Make your community a little

GREENER…

SPIRITUAL PSYCHIC MEDIUM Heidi E Kent, M.A. CM, C.Ht. 423-300-8618 HeidisReadings.com

Heidi E. Kent, co-director of The Kent-Cook Institute, is a certified psychic medium, master palmist, spiritual communicator, numerologist, relationship counselor, metaphysical teacher and certified hypnotherapist. Heidi guides you to the place of “what to do, what to do, what to do”! See ad, page 7.

For every $100 spent in locally owned business, $68 returns to the community. source: the350project.net 38

Charlotte Edition

A REIKI LIFE ACADEMY®

5200 Park Rd, Ste 105, Charlotte 704-996-4079 AReikiLife.com Offering reiki treatment for adults, children and animals; comprehensive reiki educational programs; and NCBTMB continuing education. Nancy Bunt, founder and director, has over 22 years of experience with reiki in both clinical settings and private practice, as well as an extensive background in mind-body wellness. See ad, page 9.

SALT THERAPY THE SALT PAD

1600 E. Woodlawn Rd, Ste 310 980-498-2895 TheSaltPad.com Relax, breathe and heal in our state of the art salt therapy rooms.

Serving all ages with our Adult and Kid’s Tranquility rooms, and additional healing with our Acupuncture Tranquility room.

PSYCHICS AND SENIOR TEACHERS The Nook Davidson 704-896-3111 KentCookInstitute.com

Support our advertisers.

REIKI

AwakeningCharlotte.com

SENIOR SERVICES TRANSITION WITH CARE 6135 Park South Dr, Ste 510 704-945-7108 TransitionWithCare.net

When it’s time to downsize and move from a home of many years we understand the details.

O u r c omp a s s io n a te teams of move managers reduce your physical and emotional stress by carefully planning and executing your relocation.

SOUL COACH THERESA GENDRON MSN; SC®T; SC®MP

Charlotte 203-710-6453 CoachingYourSoul@outlook.com YourSoulLovestheTruth.com Soul Coaching® empowers you to have a remarkable and prosperous life! Theresa is a protégé of Denise Linn and is a Soul Coaching® Trainer and Soul Coaching® Master Practitioner.

Visit YourSoulLovestheTruth. com today.

SPIRITUAL CENTERS SPIRITUAL LIGHT CENTER OF CHARLOTTE

Rev. Rebecca Nagy, Spiritual Leader 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte 704-599-1180 SLCofCharlotte.org 10:30 a.m. Sunday service and meditation. Spiritual but not religious? Looking for a vibrant, inclusive and nondenominational spiritual family that honors you on your spiritual journey? Then SLCC is for you. Meditations, classes and more.

See ad, page 23.

VETERINARIAN

THERMOGRAPHY JENNIFER DILLON, DC, CCN 421-B S. Sharon Amity Rd 704-333-9991 DillonNaturalHealth.com

Thermography is a non-invasive way to visualize the health of a tissue. Identify inflammation in breast tissue and other areas of the body. Detect issues early to allow time to make a change before diagnosis occurs. See ad, page 25.

ATRIUM ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Dr Kim Hombs, DVM, CVA, CVCH, CTui-Na 6520 McMahon Dr, 704-542-2000 AtriumAnimalHospital.com The most comprehensive Holistic/Integrative Animal Medicine Practice in the Charlotte region. Alternative vaccine approaches, double certified acupuncturist and herbalist, offering cold and class 4 laser, TCM food therapy, Tui-na, Animal Rehabilitation with underwater treadmill. See ad, page 11.

UNITY OF CHARLOTTE

IF EVERYTHING IS NORMAL...

WHY DO I STILL FEEL SO BAD?

Exciting Speakers Every Sunday 401 E. Arrowood Rd. 704-523-0062 UnityOfCharlotte.org Unity features a vibrant, joyous Sunday Celebration Service at 10:30am with terrific music, inspiring messages and a warm, welcoming spiritual community. Offering classes and workshops throughout the week with activities that support your health, wellness and spiritual journey.

See ad, page 6.

Have you ever described your symptoms to your doctor, had lab tests done, and then heard that all your results are

NORMAL?

UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER OF CHARLOTTE CharlotteSpiritualCenter.org 704-619-9029 Find us on Facebook & Meetup

We are a welcoming Spiritual Community grounded in Unity Metaphysics, A Course in Miracles and related Eastern Teachings.

Sunday “Casual Service” 10:30am. Sunday & Monday ACIM study groups at 7pm. Tuesday meditation & metaphysical program at 6:30/7pm. Monthly special events. See ad, page 23.

TAROT RAVEN SCHONER

2210 India Hook Rd, Rock Hill, SC 803-818-2133 DivineRaven.com Lady Raven is a born empath with over 10 years tarot reader and spiritual herbalist experience. She uses her skills in magick and her natural psychic gifts to receive aid from spirit in both her personal practice and on behalf of her clients. See ad, page 13.

Tired All The Time?

Feeling Irritable?

Can’t Lose Weight?

Hot Flashes?

Fed Up With Being Handed Another Prescription?

Deborah Matthew, M.D.

We Can Help!

Best Selling Author and International Speaker and Educator

Please join us for a FREE seminar to learn how restoring hormonal balance may improve: • Energy • Sex drive • Mood • Memory • Weight loss • Sleep cycles • Reduced need for prescription medications Call now to reserve your seat at our next seminar.

704-752-9346 or visit SignatureWellness.org

2 Locations: 3125 Springbank Lane, Ste A, Charlotte 71 McAdenville Rd, Belmont

January 2018

39

A New Kind Of Primary Care Service Our Providers Take An Integrative And Holistic Approach To Your Health

We Are A Full Service Primary Care Clinic • Same Day Sick Appointments • Preventive Adult & Gynecological Exams • Well Child Checks & Developmental Screenings • Full Service Allergy Clinic • In-house Sleep Center • Licensed Professional Counselor on staff • Doctor of Pharmacy on staff • Advance Lipid Testing • Travel Health Clinic • Integrative Medicine Consultations As An Independent Practice We Are More Affordable Than A Hospital Owned Facility

Our providers are focused on caring for the needs of your entire family from infancy to the elderly We strongly believe in encouraging preventive medicine and are considerate of alternative treatments Dino P. Kanelos, M.D. Board Certified Family Medicine

Maureen Scott, ANP-BC Completed Fellowship in Integrative Medicine Additional Medical Providers On Staff

Erik Osborne, PA-C Jeffrey Seegers, PA-C Kristen Spratt, FNP-BC

Accepting New Patients Schedule Your Appointment Today:

704-847-4000

info@carolinafamilyhealthcare.com We Accept Most Major Insurances 11220 Elm Lane, Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28277 40

CarolinaFamilyHealthcare.com Charlotte Edition AwakeningCharlotte.com