Natural Awakenings Charlotte - November 2018 Issue by Shannon

E R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

Thanksgiving Desserts Plant Based Pies for Every Palate

Safe Water from the Sink Home Systems to Purify H20

Local Holiday Gift Guide Exclusive Offers for Natural Awakenings Readers

Supercharge Your Immune System Natural Ways to Stay Healthy

August 2017 | Location-Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Charlotte Edition

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November 2018

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Tashi Kyil Buddhist Monks November 28, 2018 7-9 pm

Monks from Labrang Tashi Kyil Monastery in India are touring the US to teach the Dharma, educate the public about the culture of Tibet & to raise funds for their monastery. Join IMCCharlotte to learn chants & meditation from the Tibetan tradition & to hear a talk on the Four Noble Truths. Handmade bowls, scarves, prayer flags, & jewelry will be available for purchase with proceeds benefiting the monastery. DATE: Nov. 28 TIME: Doors open 6:30 PROGRAM: 7:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:00 pm LOCATION: Park Road Baptist Church, Milford Chapel, 3900 Park Road Charlotte, NC 28209 COST: Free Donations for monastery encouraged. Insight Meditation Community of Charlotte

InsightMeditationCharlotte.org

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

CHARLOTTE EDITION PUBLISHER Shannon McKenzie DESIGN & PRODUCTION Chelsea Rose AD DESIGN Helene Leininger EDITORIAL Michelle Bense Randy Kambic Martin Miron Jeanette Watkins CALENDAR EDITOR Kathy Zygmont

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© 2018 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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November 2018

letter from publisher

Light House is a center for spiritual growth, personal healing and holistic self-care. 1:1 Holistic Services Energy Healing Spiritual Classes & Workshops Sunday Interfaith Fellowship Clinics, Darshans, Satsangs, Meditations Intuitive Healing Work & Readings Sacred Massage Life Coaching Integrative Nutrition ...and more!

ast month as I sat down to write my publisher’s letter, Tropical Storm Florence was making a slow march toward Charlotte, and we were bracing for destruction that ultimately didn’t materialize on the scale some experts had projected. This month, Tropical Storm Michael launched a surprise attack, sprinted through Charlotte and left downed trees and, for a good number of us, days without electricity and water. Fortunately my preparation for Florence made up for my lack of preparation for Michael, and so two days without electricity was more bearable than it might have been. “The best-laid plans of mice and men” comes to mind, but really nothing went astray. Because I didn’t have time to forget where I’d put my extra batteries and flashlights, I was able to function as soon as the lights went out unexpectedly. Through sheer chance, in other words, I’ve been touched but unscathed by back-toback storms that have left entire communities devastated. I’m grateful for my good luck, and extremely cognizant of the fact that losing power can’t compare to losing your home, a reality thousands of people face today. Still, just two days in the dark were enough to make this month’s Wise Words column resonate with me in a special way. In an interview with April Thompson, Kristi Nelson, executive director of A Network for Grateful Living, uses this timely analogy to encourage us not to take even the simplest gifts for granted: “Consider how we feel when electricity returns after an outage....” Many of us have the very recent privilege of remembering. We returned from an afternoon walk and were greeted by an operating television. I was instantly relieved, knowing that I wouldn’t have to cook all the thawing items in my freezer, and that I could take a shower and run the dishwasher. “Within minutes,” Nelson continues, “we can forget how appreciative we were for those things, so we need to build reminders into our lives.” This month of Thanksgiving, I hope we will all build reminders of what we are grateful for—without the help of hurricanes. Shannon McKenzie, publisher

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P.S. Don’t miss the Natural Awakenings Gift Guide, included in this and next month’s issue. It contains exclusive offers only available to Natural Awakenings readers and it is full of meaningful gift ideas for the meaningful people in your life.

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Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. ~Melody Beattie

Contents

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

15 THE BAG LADY

CONTINUES TO EVOLVE

16 LOCAL HEALTHY HOLIDAY GUIDE

Exclusive Offers for Natural Awakenings Readers

18 SAFE DRINKING WATER

Home Systems to Purify H2O

20 SUPERCHARGE YOUR

IMMUNE SYSTEM

Natural Ways to Stay Healthy

23 GREAT FOODBASED WAYS

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 9th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ AwakeningCharlotte.com. Deadline for editorial: the 9th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@AwakeningCharlotte. com. $15/each daily $10/each ongoing. Deadline for calendar: the 9th 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.

to Boost the Immune System from Carolinas Natural Health Center

25 KRISTI NELSON

on Why Gratefulness Brings Happiness

26 THANKSGIVING DESSERTS

Plant-Based Pies for Every Palate

DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 12 health briefs 13 global briefs 14 healthy food

directory 15 business spotlight 16 healthy holiday guide 18 healing ways 24 gaston county natural guide

26 25 wise words 26 conscious

eating 29 inspiration 31 calendar 35 resource guide November 2018

Chiropractic Care Added at Alliance Wellness Centers

lliance Wellness Centers, in Concord, recently added Chiropractor Susan Osada to its staff of service and treatment providers. The practice also provides certified personal training, meditation, lifestyle and wellness coaching, holistic health, massage therapy and thermal imaging. Dr. Osada, who attended North Carolina State University and achieved her Doctorate of Chiropractic at Logan College of Chiropractic, in Susan Osada St. Louis, has practiced chiropractic for 22 years and specializes in nutrition in her practice. She has a longstanding interest in identifying the root cause of health concerns and preventive care, has undergone extensive training in nutrition and specializes and develops personalized lifestyle programs. Alliance Wellness Centers strives to provide a variety of services that all have one main goal for their customers, which is to receive a true whole wellness experience like no other. They are dedicated to help people succeed in finding inner peace and the comfort they have always been searching for through comprehensive training programs taught by certified professionals. Location: 831 Arbor St. NE, Concord. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-766-8535 or visit WellnessCenterConcord.com. See ad, page 37.

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Many Ways to Celebrate Charlotte’s 250th Anniversary

his year marks the city of Charlotte’s 250th anniversary. To mark this milestone, a yearlong celebration invites all Charlotteans to commemorate the city’s past, honor the present and imagine a successful future filled with hope and opportunity for everyone. On December 3, the official anniversary of the city’s founding, everyone is invited to join in the excitement. A noon event at Trade & Tryon will feature music, cake and remarks from city leaders. Also on that day, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library branches will mark the anniversary at all branches, and the celebration will continue with special surprises at all CharlotteMecklenburg School campuses. CLT250 crescendos in May 2019 with Charlotte Shout!, a multi-day food, art, music and innovation festival that promises to become a defining asset for the community. Every neighborhood, school, community group and house of worship is encouraged to mark CLT250 in their own way. For more information on individual or group involvement, visit CLT250.com.

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news briefs

Treat Yourself to Infinite Possibilities Workshop this Holiday Season

uthor Kate Jegede, visiting from London, will be guest presenter at a workshop hosted by Dr. Leslie Wells. Jegede will speak and guide attendees through experiential exercises at the Activating the Gift Within You workshop. Wells will demonstrate how these tools can be applied in the era of E-nergetic V-ibrational E-xchange Consciousness. Jegede’s presentation will be based on the techniques developed and taught by Neville Goddard revealing esoteric secrets that can radically transform experiences of effective metaphysical prayer and manifestation. She will also gift some signed copies of her bestselling book Infinite Possibility. The workshop takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on December 1 at Bridge Holistic Healing, in Cornelius. Jegede will teach attendees how to interpret metaphysical text, revealing the basics of the principles of mysticism, and conduct live demonstrations. There will also be time dedicated to questions and answers by participants. Attendees will learn how to identify authentic consciousness and the subjective senses; distinguish between thoughts and desires and how to fulfill your desires (manifest) through the language of feeling; establish a strong connection between the physical and subjective mind; learn the true meaning of imagination; and how to activate one’s innate power. Cost: $99. For more information including specific location and to register, email DrLeslie@BridgeHolisticHealing.com or call 980-202-1055. See ad, page 23.

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news briefs

Healthy Option for Home Flooring

Tashi Kyil Tibetan Refugee Buddhist Monks to Visit Charlotte

he Insight Meditation Community of Charlotte will host the Tashi Kyil Tibetan Buddhist Monks for an evening of chants, meditation and a Dharma Talk on the Four Noble Truths at 7 p.m. on November 28 in the Milford Chapel at Park Road Baptist Church, in Charlotte. They are touring the U.S. to teach the Dharma, educate the public about the culture and religion of Tibet and present a message of wisdom and compassion. The tour raises much needed funds for their monastery and the many children they care for and educate. Furthermore, many items made by Tibetan refugees living in India will be available for purchase including bowls, scarves, prayer flags and jewelry. Following the destruction of the original Labrang Tashi Kyil Monastery in Tibet, exiled monks rebuilt their monastery in Dehra Dun, India in 1967. To the present day, the chanting styles, rituals, practices and self-initiations are preserved just as they were in Tibet. The Labrang Tashi Kyil Monks are a part of the Tibetan Buddhist Gelug Sect led by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Free admission, donations are welcomed. Location: 3900 Park Rd. For more information, call 704-616-8911. See ad, page 4.

Gift Yourself! Be a Gift to the World ...

elax and reinvigorate as you develop your life-management skills during Mindful Living Studio’s Vessel Yoga Mind+Body+Being Integration retreat at Art of Living Retreat Center, located in Boone, North Carolina. High on the mountain, a Vedic temple awaits you! Vessel Yoga is rooted in the UMass Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program for stress and pain management. The 4-day/3-night retreat is scheduled from Saturday, December 1, through noon Tuesday, December 4. The all-inclusive program, Transform Stress into Mental and Emotional Stability and Inner Mastery, develops integrative life-management skills by renewing mind and clearing the mental and emotional body to tap the wisdom of the heart. The retreat fee includes a Vessel Yoga eCourse to prepare for the retreat; A Mindful Living eCourse and Retreat Completion Certificate for personal or professional development; and CEUs for yoga teachers. Note: Partial scholarships are available. Cost: Fees are based on room type and begin at $450 for 3 nights/4 days, 9 meals, and tuition. To register, visit ArtOfLivingRetreatCenter.org/event. For important details, call 803-397-1398 or email MindfulLivingStudio@gmail.com. Also visit MindfulLivingStudio. com. See ad, page 5. 10

Charlotte Edition

AwakeningCharlotte.com

auzon Distinctive Hardwood, high-quality Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) hardwood flooring with the exclusive Pure Genius technology, can be a healthy option for homeowners and especially people with asthma, allergies or other respiratory problems. Pure Genius—a light-activated, air-purifying agent made of titanium dioxide that’s integrated into Lauzon’s Titanium floor finish and doesn’t contain solvents, VOCs or formaldehyde—has been proven to purify indoor air by up to 85 percent according to Lauzon. Activated by natural or artificial light, it breaks down toxic contaminants on contact and transforms them into harmless molecules, according to the manufacturer. Lauzon Distinctive Hardwood flooring is manufactured from slow-growth Canadian hardwood. For more information, call 404-771-9714 or visit LauzonFlooring. com/Pure-Genius. See ad, page 36.

Yoni Steams Available at Two Trees Acupuncture

oni Steams, a healing tradition stretching back thousands of years with international origins, are currently being offered at Two Trees Acupuncture, in Charlotte. Available during regular office hours from Tuesday through Saturday, such sessions are an easy and accessible method of improving and also maintaining pelvic health care. The specific tradition of steaming techniques and herbal combinations used at the clinic is from a Maya medicine lineage from Belize, of which their practitioner has trained to its fullest depth and even visited Belize to learn from the masters including Arvigo Maya Abdominal. With many women suffering from seemingly intractable women’s health conditions, from endometriosis to chronic infection, yoni steaming plays a key role in supporting a woman’s natural cycle, affecting the release of emotional and physical toxins, the healing of sensitive tissues and relaxing the entire body in highly unique way. Cost: $40. Location: 1318 Central Ave., Ste. A3. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-770-1318, email info@ TwoTreesAcupuncture.com or visit TwoTreesAcupuncture.com. See ad, page 14.

News to share? Submit information to Publisher@AwakeningCharlotte.com Submittal deadline is the 9th of the month.

Special Holiday Offer at Ignite Wellness Physical Therapy

o help clients enjoy the holiday season as much as possible, Ignite Wellness Physical Therapy, in Pineville is providing a more affordable way to eliminate nagging aches and pains. A 90-minute evaluation with treatment plus two, half-hour, follow-up treatment sessions is being offered this month and throughout December at $250, $40 less than the usual cost. Rachel Thiel, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and a master clinician and instructor for Primal Reflex Release Technique, uses the reflex system that’s critical to relieving muscular pain quickly. Additionally, she has used Trigger Point Dry Needling for five years to enhance the outcomes of her patients. Thiel partners with Focal Point Chiropractic. Along with experiencing a healthy, pain-free holiday season, customers can utilize expiring FSA funds for themselves and family members. Location:103 Dover St., Pineville. For more information including practice’s hours and to make an appointment, call 704-889-0160 or visit IgniteWellness.us. See ad, page 17.

Environmental Progress Might Depend on Your Vote

he Environmental Defense Action Fund (or EDF Action) is seeking to have as many people who care about the environment as possible to vote in this year’s midterm elections on November 6. All polling locations in Mecklenburg County will be open on November 6 from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. One-stop early voting, which allows people to register and vote the same day, runs through November 3. According to EDF Action, the environment is on the ballot this year in the leaders we elect to take action on key issues that affect our health and the quality of life in our communities. It’s vital to research and vote for candidates who will champion causes like providing safe drinking water to North Carolinians, clean energy jobs and business development, and planning for the effects of sea level rise and other natural disasters. Visit vt.ncsbe.gov/OSSite for locations and hours of early voting sites. To vote on election day, find your polling place at vt.ncsbe. gov/PPLkup or call 704-336-2133. Contact Scott Sellers at Scott@ RecessOfAction.com for more information. Connect on Facebook at Recess of Action - North Carolina.

Learn to Hear and See Sacred Signs from the Universe

nity Spiritual Center of Charlotte will present a workshop with Dr. Adrian Calabrese, intuitive counselor, metaphysical minister and author of Sacred Signs: Hear, See and Believe Messages from the Universe, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on November 10 at the Park Road Baptist Church. Calabrese reminds us that we all receive divine signs from the Universe every day. This workshop will introduce attendees to what Sacred Signs are, how to ask for signs, how to understand the answers you receive and how to maintain an ongoing conversation with the Source of all signs. Calabrese, who holds doctorates in Psychical Research and Metaphysics, is a certified clinical hypnotherapist and inspirational speaker, and founder of the Metaphysical Center for Arts and Sciences, and the Church of the Spirit. Through her talks and workshops, she has taught thousands to find peace, happiness, and live spiritual, joyful lives. Cost: $15 admission includes a signed copy of her book. Location: 3900 Park Rd., Rm. 503. For more information or to register, email CharlotteSpiritualCenter@gmail.com or visit UnitySpiritualCenter OfCharlotte.org or AdrianCalabrese.com. See ad, page 24. November 2018

health briefs

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Charlotte Edition

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Colon hydrotherapy is a gentle process of putting water in the colon for the purpose of softening and eliminating waste. It is a safe process for colon cleansing and an accepted preparation for colonoscopy. Therapeutically, colon cleansing has been scientifically proven to make the digestive system more effective; maintain regularity and prevent constipation; increase energy; increase the body’s absorption of vitamins and nutrients; improve concentration; kick-start weight loss; decrease risk of colon cancer and increase fertility.

NYS/Shutterstock.com

Teachers that antagonize their students by belittling them, showing favoritism or criticizing their contributions can damage their learning potential, warns a new West Virginia University study of 472 undergraduates. Split into two groups, the students watched either a class taught by a teacher with antagonism or a standard lesson taught without antagonism, and then took a multiple-choice quiz. Test scores were up to 5 percent lower for those that watched the antagonistic teacher because they disliked what they were being taught. They were also less likely to put forth as much effort and were unwilling to attend that teacher’s future courses.

Benefits of Colon Cleansing

Donna Brown is the owner of HC Wellness Center & Spa, offering colon hydrotherapy and other services for 14 years at 1308 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. For appointments, call 704-823-1577 or email ihealthyconnect@carolina.rr.com. For more information, visit HCWellnessCenterAndSpa.com.

Air Pollution Harms Developing Brains Fetal exposure to air pollution, even at levels considered safe by current standards, has been linked by Dutch researchers to thinning of the outer layer of a child’s brain and later cognitive difficulties. Following 783 children ages 6 through 10, the researchers concluded those brain abnormalities contributed in part to impulsiveness that could lead to addictive behavior and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Aerobic Fitness Helps Prevent Word Loss Tip-of-the-tongue word loss, an aggravation for many seniors and other adults, occurs less frequently in those with higher levels of aerobic fitness, regardless of age or vocabulary, reports a study of 56 men and women from the UK’s University of Birmingham. Lead researcher Katrien Segaert also clarified that tip-of-the-tongue word loss is not associated with memory loss—a common concern by those that often experience it.

kckate16/Shutterstock.com

Hostile Teachers Hamper Learning

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global briefs

Really Natural

Organic Labeling Evolves to Meet Challenges

Organic shoppers may see additional labeling on produce. More than a dozen farmers and scientists from around the country met to create the standards for an additional organic certification pilot program called the Real Organic Project (ROP), which they plan to initially introduce at 20 to 60 farms. Under the current U.S. Department of Agriculture program, the organic label means that produce has been grown without synthetic substances or genetic engineering; it doesn’t specify whether produce was grown in water or soil, which the new labeling would address.

End Game

Extinctions of Threatened Species Continue

Laurent Renault/Shutterstock.com

The death of the world’s last male northern white rhino has rendered the species functionally extinct, which means the only hope of reviving the population is through in vitro fertilization. World Wildlife Fund head of campaigns Colin Butfield calls this a “uniquely bad situation.” Two other animals, the vaquita, a very rare porpoise discovered in 1958, and the Javan rhino are facing the same fate. Many other species, including the Sumatran rhino, black rhino, Amur leopard, forest elephant and Bornean orangutan are considered critically endangered, some with fewer than 100 individuals left. The International Union for Conservation of Nature currently considers 5,583 species of plant, mammal, bird, amphibian and marine life critically endangered.

Dumping Disincentive

Big Bank Acts to Protect Oceans from Mine Waste

Citigroup is no longer financing mining projects that dump mine waste into the ocean. The move comes in response to pressure from the Ditch Ocean Dumping campaign, which calls on financial institutions to divest from any project or company that employs the practice. “Banks and financial institutions must actively take steps to ensure that they are not bankrolling the destruction of our oceans,” says campaign coordinator Ellen Moore of Earthworks. Mine waste can contain up to three dozen dangerous chemicals, including arsenic, lead, mercury and cyanide. These metals accumulate in fish, and ultimately, the wildlife and people that eat them. The pollution contaminates drinking water, decimates ecosystems and destroys fisheries. While the outdated practice has been phased out in many parts of the world, new mining proposals in Papua New Guinea and Norway signal that such dumping is being ramped up, not phased out. November 2018

healthy food directory

Connecting you to leaders in natural and healthy food. To find out how you can be included in the Healthy Food Directory email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com.

LOCAL ORGANIC FOODS NELLY’S NATURALS® ORGANICS At Blacklion on 10635 Park Rd. 704-541-1148 • 980-729-4326 Info@NellysNaturals.com

Discover the organic goodness of Nelly's Naturals® Signature Sweets & Savories. Find NC local and regional foods (including vegan and non-gluten options), arts, crafts, organic teas and plenty of samples.

MEAL DELIVERY SERVICE NOURISH CHARLOTTE

Delivery & Pickup to Mecklenburg 1-855-442-FOOD NourishCharlotte.com Nourish delivers ecofriendly, healthy glutenfree vegan food to Charlotte and beyond. Also offers pick up locations to support Greater Charlotte. Meals are nutritious, organic, clean and plant-based.

SPECIALTY GROCERY STORE MECKLENBURG COUNTY MARKET Beverly’s Gourmet Foods Local, Vegan, Vegetarian & Gluten Free 1515 Harding Pl • 704-533-0073

Local produce from local farmers. Grass-fed meat, country ham, cheeses, eggs, jams/jellies, vegan options, ready-made vegetarian meals and more. Learn more at BeverlysGourmetFoods.com & MecklenburgCountyMarket.com.

VEGETARIAN BERRYBROOK NATURAL FOODS The Juice Bar Deli 9am-4pm M-Sa 1257 East Blvd BerrybrookFarm.com • 704-334-6528

Full menu of soups, salads, sandwiches, juices and smoothies – all homemade daily! Vegan and gluten free options available. Shop while your order is prepared. See ad, page 24.

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cademy® Stress is a na without tural part of life . regular methods However, stress it can have to mana ge a profou nd impa ct on coping wi th stress managin a g pain an critical piece to d illness anxiety, , im red pro uc ving sleep, ing healthie r. Reiki and living , TR Relaxati on Tech E®, Meditation, niques all an can play d a Nancy Bu nt, of A Reiki founder and dir ect Lif or e Ac extensiv e backgrou ademy®, has an mind-bo nd in Re dy welln iki and ess, an of experi d over 23 years ence.

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business spotlight

The Bag Lady Continues to Evolve

by Martin Miron

positive,” says Burns. “We also love to support he Bag Lady: Intuitive Gifts, in Charlocal artists, and are working to get communilotte, was created in 1995. Owner ty-produced products into the store.” Susan Burns says, “I am proud and Burn shares, “We are delighted to have grateful to be the fourth proprietress of the been serving the spiritual community in shop.” The Bag Lady is a metaphysical gift shop Charlotte for 23 years through many ups and and bookstore that sells a variety of incense downs in the economy. We have changed with choices, reiki-infused scented candles, singing the times and grown so much in the process; bowls of all shapes and sizes, tingsha ritual bells, and now we are grateful to be in a larger space a wide selection of jewelry, oracle and tarot with limitless possibilities. People in Charlotte cards and an impressive collection of crystals and the surrounding towns are looking for and stones. Their top sellers are sage and stones. more spiritual meaning in their lives. They are The Bag Lady also boasts a great selection thirsty to learn more about what they can do of books for readers of all ages, including chilto enact positive change and what tools they dren and young adults. Topics include fiction, can use. We are very supportive of people on health and wellness, creativity, self-help, and their journey and take pride in providing all spirituality. “We’ve got something for everySusan Burns the objects and information that can help. one!” exclaims Burns. She holds a degree in There is an event room for classes and gatherings that customEnglish with a specialization in medieval studies and has classical ers can use for meditation when it is available. There’s even a large music training and many spiritual classes to her credit. copper meditation pyramid in the store. The Bag Lady will hold The store offers a schedule of intuitive readers, new moon a psychic fair from 12:30 to 4 p.m. on November 11. Additional and full moon circles, as well as classes on astrology, chakras classes are offered in November, but none in December. They and more. Each of the seven employees bring their own special resume in January 2019. Burns advises, “We help people who talents and gifts to the store, such as energy healing, life coaching, have been on their spiritual path for a long time and want to learn pagan and Wicca traditions, crystals and their properties, esoteric more, or share their knowledge with others by offering classes in spirituality and more. All these “bagettes” can help customers find our event space or readings in our intuitive reading room.” what they need on the path to self-empowerment and spirituality. “The first thing that we hear is how much customers love the The Bag Lady: Intuitive Gifts is located at 1516 E. 4th St., in Charfeeling when they walk into the store. They feel positive and uplifting lotte. For more information, call 704-338-9778 or visit The-Bagwelcoming energy that makes them feel loved, appreciated and valued. Lady.biz. See ad, page 16. We aim to have unique and gorgeous items that are overwhelmingly

November 2018

healthy holiday guide

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healing ways

SAFE DRINKING WATER Home Systems to Purify H2O

Mariyana M /Shutterstock.com

by Jim Motavalli

mericans trust bottled more than tap water, but that confidence might work better if reversed. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) notes that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors tap water for more than 90 contaminants, and it must meet the strict standards of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974. Nationally distributed bottled water, under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, isn’t as carefully or frequently checked. A quarter of all bottled water is actually filtered tap water, reports the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). Concern about safe tap water is relatively recent—in the 1960s, for instance, people worried more about fluoridation than contamination. But since 1990, partly driven by bottled water ads, Gallup polls have shown tap water concerns rising; 63 percent of us now worry about our drinking water “a great deal”. Bottled water is usually safe to drink, but isn’t environmentally friendly. Plastic bottle production in the U.S. requires 17.6 million barrels of oil annually, reports the nonprofit Riverkeeper; plus the energy used to transport it to market, refrigerate 18

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it and collect the empties equals filling the bottles a quarter full of oil. Then, 77 percent of discards end up in the landfill. the Earth Day Network reports. Retail costs range from 89 cents a serving to $8 a gallon for designer water, averaging $1.11 a gallon, compared to .002 cents per gallon for tap water.

What’s in Tap Water Legitimate concerns about tap water exist, mostly because homes built before 1986 likely have lead in their pipes, solder and fixtures, possibly contaminating municipally sourced water. Well water is also susceptible to outside contamination from chemicals and microorganisms that must be monitored. Because lead accumulates in stagnated water in pipes, run the water until it gets as cold as possible; up to two minutes if the taps haven’t been turned on in six hours or more. Other chemicals found in tap water include low levels of chlorine, arsenic, nitrates, atrazine, perchlorate and pathogens, reports the NRDC. Pharmaceutical products can also get into tap water, warns the World Health Organization (WHO). A recent study from the EWG and North-

eastern University, in Boston, showed small quantities of toxic chemicals in tap water serving 15 million Americans in 27 states.

Filter Options Filters can allay tap water worries from municipal or well supplies. Several types—tap-mounted, under-sink and pitchers—are effective and affordable, ranging from $20 to $300. Seek filters certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) testing agency that check for specific contaminants of concern. NSF-42 coding certifies filters that improve water taste and remove both chlorine and particulate matter. NSF-53 is more stringent and requires removal of metals and harmful chemicals. The highest standard, NSF-401, covers filters that eliminate bacteria, pesticides/herbicides and residue from drugs like ibuprofen. Activated carbon filters, which require regular replacement cartridges, remove large particles like sediment and silt. Reverse osmosis filters remove dissolved inorganic solids (including salts) by pushing tap water through a semi-permeable membrane. Ultraviolet water purification is effective at treating bacteria and viruses, but not contaminants such as chlorine, volatile organic compounds or heavy metals. Charcoal pitcher filters are the most common, easiest to use and least expensive, although cartridges add to the cost and are only effective for processing about 40 gallons each. To save money, DIY products allow individuals to refill used cartridges with new activated charcoal. Filter pitchers need to be cleaned regularly because the charcoal can leak, producing mildew, calcium and grime. Faucet-mounted models are easy to install and can be switched easily from filtered to unfiltered water (e.g., for washing up). Under-sink filters and cartridges are effective for up to 200 gallons, but more challenging to install. Connecting to refrigerators and ice makers makes installation more complex, and leakage can be an issue; countertop filters take up space, but are less likely to clog. Consumer Reports says reverse osmosis filters are effective at removing contaminants, but can operate slowly, consume cabinet space, need periodic cleaning with bleach and create three to five gallons of wastewater for every gallon filtered. WHO indicates that conventional municipal water treatment processes can remove about half of the compounds associated with pharmaceutical drugs. Advanced treatment like reverse osmosis and nanofiltration can be more efficient, removing up to 99 percent of large pharmaceutical molecules. The first step is a water test. Some state and local health departments offer free test kits and they are also sold at hardware stores. Certified laboratories test tap water samples, with information often available from the local water provider. Find a state-by-state list of certified labs plus program contacts at Tinyurl.com/DrinkingWaterCertificationInfo. The EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline is 800-426-4791. Jim Motavalli, of Fairfield, CT, is an author, freelance journalist and speaker specializing in clean automotive and other environmental topics. Connect at JimMotavalli.com.

Learn—Do—Enjoy the Water by Emilee Syrewicze

e have been successful with water—capturing it, treating it and distributing it. We are so successful, in fact, that we’ve become water illiterate. We don’t really think about water until something happens such as pollution or scarcity to threaten our access to it. The nonprofit Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation (CRF) works to educate, advocate and protect the Catawba-Wateree River basin, one of the most endangered rivers in the country. They have boiled down their mission into three words: Learn. Do. Enjoy. Knowing that a problem exists is half the battle, so learn about threats to our water by participating in one of the many CRF educational opportunities. CRF hosts cleanups of all sizes and locations year-round and cleaned up nearly 74,000 pounds of trash from the river last year. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up to participate in a cleanup and do something to help improve our local waterways. At the 16th annual Lake Wylie Riversweep, more than 600 local volunteers recovered 16,230 pounds of trash in 526 bags from the waters of Lake Wylie on October 6. On November 13, Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation is participating in Meet Your Environmental Leaders, a presentation and Q&A hosted by the Charlotte Chapter of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, where we will be joined by executive directors of Clean Air Carolina, Catawba Lands Conservancy and Sustain Charlotte, to discuss how our organizations protect our natural resources and promote a clean environment. When we see huge threats to our local water quality like coal ash, land development or industrial farming, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or think that there is no way to change what’s happening, but that’s not the case. Every day, awesome volunteers and community members are working to improve our local water quality. In order to appreciate what’s worth protecting, it’s helpful to get outside and enjoy the river. CRF also offers many recreational opportunities throughout the year aimed at getting folks out on the water. Spider Lily and Fall Leaf ECO tours are available, as well as Thursday evening paddles that take place all summer to see what is worth protecting and enjoy a day on the river. Emilee Syrewicze, J.D., is the executive director of the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation. For more information, visit CatawbaRiverkeeper. org. For more information on the November 13 “Meet Your Environmental Leaders” event, visit CrownCharlotte.org. November 2018

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Supercharge Your Immune System

Natural Ways to Stay Healthy by Kathleen Barnes

ike many other health conditions, challenges to our immune systems are on the rise. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 26.5 million adults and kids have asthma, 50 million have allergies and up to 20 percent get the flu each year. Catching a cold is common, with U.S. adults generally coping with two or three a year and children about twice as many. As many as 50 million Americans suffer from autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, celiac and lupus, costing $100 billion a year to treat, which is nearly twice the amount spent on cancer care, according to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association. Initial statistics released 20 years ago estimated that 9 million Americans had autoimmune diseases; a five-fold increase since then illustrates the magnitude of the problem. 20

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People that are free of some degree of immune system dysfunction are relatively uncommon.

Identified Culprits

“We are absolutely seeing a rise in immune disorders,” says Michael T. Murray, a doctor of naturopathy in Lyons, Colorado, and author of Chronic Candidiasis: Your Natural Guide to Healing with Diet, Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, Exercise and Other Natural Methods. “Many factors are responsible for the increase.” He cites the most notable as the widespread use of antibiotics and pesticides; dietary factors, including too much sugar; decreased intake of essential vitamins and minerals; overconsumption of calories in general; lifestyle factors like not getting enough sleep or exercise; excessive alcohol; stress; and exposure to cigarette smoke.

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“The microbiome—the bacterial structure that supports a strong immune system—is largely inherited from the mother during a vaginal birth,” says Sayer Ji, of Miami, Florida, founder of GreenMedInfo.com, sponsor of the 2017 Immune Defense Summit and a member of the National Health Federation’s board of governors. “The rising number of Caesarean sections, at nearly one-third of all U.S. births, up from 18 percent in 1997, deprives infants of those naturally occurring bacteria, and can result in immune deficiencies at an early age.” Low-level chronic stress of the kind that occurs in everyday modern life is a leading underlying factor in immune system compromise, says natural health and healing expert Dr. Deepak Chopra, of Carlsbad, California, author of The Healing Self: A Revolutionary New Plan to Supercharge Your Immunity and Stay Well for Life. Along with emotional stress, he points to any kind of inner or outer challenge that pulls us off center. Everyone experiences some stress every day; when unrelieved, it’s been widely shown to have a huge negative impact on our health. “Imbalance can be negative or positive, and so can stress,” says Chopra. “Winning the lottery is just as stressful as going through a divorce. So the challenge isn’t to achieve static balance, but to successfully thrive in stressful surroundings.”

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Internal Communiqués

Medical science now generally agrees that the greatest part of the immune system resides in the gut. “We need those trillions of bacteria that live in the digestive tract. Without them, we are unable to defend ourselves from all types of assaults, including the autoimmune diseases, in which the body turns upon itself,” says Ji. “The immune system lines the large and small intestines,” says Dr. Susan Blum, of Rye Brook, New York, author of The Immune System Recovery Plan: A Doctor’s 4-Step Program to Treat Autoimmune Disease. “The microbes in the gut lining speak to the immune system. Anything that alters the microbes in negative ways—like antibiotics or viral illness, among others—can also negatively alter the immune system.”

Unavoidable Toxin

We can’t avoid the toxic exposure that underlies much of the immune dysfunction we are experiencing today, says Wendy Myers, a functional diagnostic nutritionist in Los Angeles, California, and author of Limitless Energy: How to Detox Toxic Metals to End Exhaustion and Chronic Fatigue. “Toxins, especially heavy metals like lead and mercury, are in the air, water and soil. Since we can’t escape them, we need to know how they are affecting us and work to neutralize them.” Experts agree that immune challenges can be neutralized and overcome with the right diet and lifestyle, stress management and appropriate supplements to restore and maintain the whole system balance needed to flourish in a world of our own making that stresses us on every level.

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The Right Food

Eliminating wheat and dairy can end half of current immune system dysfunction through helping to repair the microbiome and healing the immune system, Ji believes. As one example, “If my mom had known I was allergic to cow’s milk when I was a child, I wouldn’t have suffered for 20 years with bronchial asthma,” he says. An anti-inflammatory diet also speeds gut healing and strengthens the immune system, says Blum. Highlights of her program for a basic clean-up include

in which gluten, dairy, corn, soy and eggs are all eliminated for three weeks. People with arthritis should also eliminate nightshades like tomatoes and potatoes. “Then add back in the eliminated foods one at a time and carefully note the body’s reaction. It’s not that hard to get a clear picture of what aggravates inflammation such as arthritis pain,” Blum says.

The Right Supplements

Multivitamins: “High-quality vitamin

and mineral supplements are foundational to immune health,” Murray says. “Vitamins C, E and B and selenium are especially important.”

Digestive enzymes: “Digestive eliminating anything white (sugar and all products made with flour); eating quality fats (cold-pressed vegetable oils, nuts and seeds); protein (grass-fed beef, organic and free-range poultry, wild game and wildcaught fish); organic fruits and vegetables as much as possible and fermented foods daily; limiting and preferably eliminating dairy; and reading labels and banishing additives, chemicals and processed foods. According to CDC statistics, almost everyone has some level of immune dysfunction, so this clean-up diet will benefit most of us, Blum says. After a basic regimen of three weeks or longer, she recommends exploring an elimination and challenge diet

enzymes are key to restoring gut health, and thereby healing the immune system. They’re useful in reducing immunemediated inflammation in autoimmune disorders,” Murray explains. Australian research from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research confirms that supporting the immune system helps heal inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Instead, these are commonly treated with immune system suppressants that leave the patient with diminished resistance to other diseases. Raw foods, especially pineapple and papaya, are good sources of digestive enzymes. They’re also available as supplements.

Prebiotics and probiotics: Prebiotics, plant fibers that ferment in the colon helping to increase desirable bacteria in the gut, and probiotics, live beneficial bacteria, help restore balance in the microbiome, effectively feeding and strengthening the immune system. Myers suggests that declining levels of friendly bacteria in the gut may actually mark the onset of chronic degenerative disease. Vitamin D: Several studies, including one from Israel, have shown that people with the highest vitamin D levels have the lowest number of upper respiratory infections. “To ensure optimal vitamin D status, many health advocates, myself included, are recently advocating daily dosages of 2,000 to 5,000 international units (IU), even in apparently healthy adults,” Murray says. November 2018

charides; soluble fiber naturally occurring in the cell walls of grains, bacteria, yeast, algae and fungi. Natural sources include oats, barley, seaweed, and shitake and reishi mushrooms. In supplements, look for products extracted by fermentation if grain or yeast is a concern. These sugars are known to help prevent and shorten durations of colds and flu and provide relief for allergies and sinus congestion, and may help regulate an overactive immune response in cases of autoimmune disorders. Both internal and external factors can affect us all the way to the cellular level. Chopra says, “You are talking to your genes all the time, and what you say affects every cell in your body. Through lifestyle choices, you can make healing decisions rather than damaging ones.” Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books including The Calcium Lie: What Your Doctor Still Doesn’t Know, with Dr. Robert Thompson. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

Flu Shot or Not

he effectiveness and safety of flu shots has long been questioned. At best, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reckons that the flu vaccine is 60 percent effective and less so for those older than 65. Plus, it admits it will have zero effect if scientists wrongly project which strains will be prevalent in the coming year. Having a strong immune system is the best bet to prevent flu, says Sayer Ji, founder of GreenMedInfo.com. Further protection can be found in vitamin D, says Naturopathic Doctor Michael T. Murray. He notes, “It may prove to be more effective and less costly than conventional flu shots.” If a cold or flu strikes, Murray suggests zinc lozenges. For coughs, German research from the Department of Integrative Gastroenterology at the Kliniken Essen-Mitte shows that a South African medicinal plant, Pelargoniium

sidoides, commonly known as Umckloab (an ingredient in Umcka ColdCare) is especially effective in treating coughs caused by colds, bronchitis and sinusitis.

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Great Food-Based Ways to Boost the Immune System

In Need of a Tune-UP?

by Michael Smith

or those dreading cold and flu season, here are some plant-based, whole food ideas to help boost the immune system with some blockbuster nutrients. Zinc helps the body to build white blood cells, reduces symptoms of colds and flu when taken within 24 hours, and lowers incidence of fevers and coughs. Vitamin C makes interferon, which zaps viruses. Vitamin E produces interleukin-2, a protein that kills bacteria, viruses and cancer cells.

Zinc

Roasted squash and pumpkin seeds— make these in the oven and eat them right off the cookie sheet. They contain 10 milligrams (mg), or 70 percent daily value (DV) of zinc per 100 gram (g) serving, 6.6 mg (59 percent DV) per cup, and 3 mg (19 percent DV) per ounce (about 85 seeds). Cashews—eat alone, or sprinkle them on top of salads, fruit or grains. They contain 5.6 mg (37 percent DV) of zinc per 100 g serving, which means 7.7 mg (51 percent DV) per cup, and 1.6 mg (10 percent DV) in a single ounce. Other high-zinc foods include dark chocolate, oatmeal, lentils and black beans.

Vitamin C

Red and green chili peppers—spice up salads, pasta dishes and other veggies, green chili peppers provide the most vitamin C of any food. with 242.5 mg (404 percent DV) per 100 gram serving, 181.88 mg (303 percent DV) in a half cup, and 109.13

mg (182 percent DV) in a single green chili pepper. Red chilis provide 144 mg (240 percent DV) of vitamin C per 100 g serving, 108 mg (180 percent DV) per half cup, and 65 mg (108 percent DV) per pepper.

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Broccoli—by itself or in recipes such as soups or salads. It provides 89 mg (149 percent DV) of vitamin C per 100 g serving, 81 mg (135 percent DV) per cup chopped, and 28 mg (46 percent DV) per piece. Other foods high in vitamin C include citrus, strawberries, bell peppers and dark leafy greens.

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Vitamin E

Sunflower seeds—on a salad or right out of the bag, sunflower seeds provide 36.6 mg (222 percent DV) of vitamin E in a 100 g serving, or 36.5 mg (310 percent DV) per cup.

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Almonds—eaten alone or made into almond milk or almond butter. Almonds contain 26.2 mg (175 percent DV) of vitamin E in a 100 g serving, 37.5 mg (250 percent DV) per cup, and 0.3 mg (2 percent DV) of vitamin E in a single almond. Other foods rich in vitamin E include avocado, paprika, wheat germ oil, oregano and pine nuts. The versatility of these nutritious foods is tremendous, so we can enjoy all of them while boosting our immunity. Dr. Michael Smith is a naturopathic physician and founder of Carolinas Natural Health Center. For information about free health seminars, call 704-708-4404 or visit CarolinasNaturalHealth.com. For more information about the nutrients in food, visit Healthaliciousness.com. November 2018

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Kristi Nelson

on Why Gratefulness Brings Happiness by April Thompson

risti Nelson has dedicated her career to leading, funding and strengthening organizations committed to progressive social and spiritual change. Today, at the helm of the Network for Grateful Living, she is helping awaken thousands of people around the world to the life-changing practice of gratefulness. Co-founded by Benedictine monk, teacher and author David Steindl-Rast, the network offers educational programs and practices that inspire and guide a commitment to grateful living, and spark the transformative power of personal and societal responsibility. Earlier in her career, Nelson founded a values-based fundraising, consulting, training and leadership coaching company, working with groups such as the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, Buddhist Peace Fellowship and the Center for Contemplative Mind in Society. She also served in director-level positions for the Soul of Money Institute, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health and the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society. Nelson lives in Western Massachusetts with her family, grateful to be surrounded by the wonders of the natural world and connected to a vibrant, loving and grateful global community.

Why is it helpful to differentiate between gratefulness, gratitude and thanksgiving?

Gratefulness is a proactive orientation to life that originates inside. You wake with a sense of thankful awareness for the gift of another day, of all the miraculous things your body did overnight to keep you alive and healthy and an all-encompassing sense of the great fullness of life. Gratitude is more of a response to something going well; anything from receiving the perfect present to five green lights on the way home to beautiful weather. It can become an addictive pursuit to try to get life to deliver something positive again and again, whereas gratefulness emanates from a more unconditional core. Thanksgiving bubbles up when we’re so filled with a sense of gratefulness—that great fullness—that we overflow into finding ways to express thanks aloud and in actions, such as delivering praise or being of service.

In what way is happiness related to gratefulness?

The truth is that it’s not happiness that makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy. We can have all the things that should make us happy, and that we wish would make us happy, but unless we feel grateful for what we have, it’s likely nothing will truly make us happy. Happiness can be susceptible to outside circumstance, whereas gratefulness is an orientation we can more consistently maintain.

How do we cultivate gratefulness as a way of being, rather than an intermittent feeling?

It’s a three-step process: stop, look and go. First, we pause to be present; slow down enough to notice all the things for which we can be grateful. Second, we enlarge our perspective to take nothing for granted and acknowledge that life is short and uncertain, so we are grateful each day we wake up. This step is also about being aware of our privileges, starting with our ability to see, hear, move about and function. It keeps us aware, awake and alert. Consider how we feel when electricity returns after an outage or when we can use our hand or foot after a cast comes off. Within minutes, we can forget how appreciative we were for those things, so we need to build reminders into our lives. Third, we generate possibilities. Find ways to express appreciation or nurture something we care about by engaging in an actively grateful way. Even when we suffer hardship, shifting our awareness to notice whatever is sufficient, abundant and beautiful enables us to be grateful. This creates a ripple effect, bringing more reasons to be grateful. It’s a radical way to live.

Which other qualities of life that people now seek give you hope?

It gives me hope when people seek contentment. Paradoxically, discontent gives me hope too, because when people recognize injustice and social biases, it pushes us to engage; to stand up and take note of what’s not okay and needs to be changed. Love also gives me hope, especially when individuals seek to love more generously, inclusively and compassionately. It brings me the most hope of all when I see people building bridges and stretching their own capacity to love beyond their comfort zone. Connect with April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com. November 2018

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THANKSGIVING DESSERTS Plant-Based Pies for Every Palate

ratitude for the bounty in our lives has been a constant in every American Thanksgiving since the Pilgrims’ first celebration at Plymouth Plantation. What has changed is the menu. Many holiday hosts today wish to be inclusive and respect everyone’s increasingly restrictive dietary needs. A few dishes that offer naturally gluten-free, paleo and plant-based options never go amiss, especially when we’re talking pie. It’s easy to make a plant-based pie—think pumpkin, sweet potato and chocolate. As a bonus, many vegan pies can be made ahead and actually taste better the next day.

The Crust

A mellow nut crust might be the best way to go; pecans or almonds, sweetened with dates, crumbled in the food processor and pressed into a pie pan. It’s deliciously easy and can be made the day before, always a plus at holiday time. Gluten-free vanilla, chocolate or gingersnap cookie crumbs, mixed with a little coconut oil pressed into the pan, can serve as an alternative to nuts.

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The freshest filling makes the freshest-tasting pie. Winter vegetables such as squash, small sugar or pie pumpkins or sweet potatoes can be baked in the oven and puréed in the food processor days ahead of time. Or, make the purées weeks ahead and freeze them, ready to thaw for a recipe.

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Award-winning cookbook author Deborah Madison, author of Seasonal Fruit Desserts: From Orchard, Farm, and Market, in Galisteo, New Mexico, preheats her oven to 375° F. “Cut the squash in half, the pumpkins into quarters, scrape out the seeds and brush the cut surfaces with a vegetable oil such as sunflower or safflower,” she suggests. “Place the squash or pumpkins cutside-down on a sheet pan. Prick sweet potatoes all over with a fork. Bake the vegetables until tender, about 40 minutes,” says Madison. When baked, scoop out the flesh, discard the rinds or skin and purée the flesh in a food processor. About two cups of purée equals a 15-ounce can of pumpkin, sweet potato or butternut squash. Pies made with fresh purées will have a lighter color and flavor. Madison says she prefers natural sweeteners. “Honey and maple syrup are so dynamic—they’re more like foods in their own right than just sweeteners.” Maple and date sugars give pies a deep, caramelized flavor. Always taste test during preparation, recommends Alissa Saenz, of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, who blogs at ConnoisseurusVeg.com. She loves a big dose of chai spices and little dose of sweetener in her Vegan Chai-Spiced Sweet Potato Pie. But pie is personal. “I recommend tasting your batter to decide if you’d prefer a little more or less of each,” she says.

photo by Stephen Blancett

Finishing Touches

An ethereal cloud of coconut whipped cream can taste just as delicious as the dairy version, says vegan baker and cookbook author Fran Costigan, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She refrigerates a 14-ounce can of unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk for at least 24 hours. After opening it, she spoons out only the solid coconut cream into a chilled bowl, saving the remaining liquid coconut milk for another use. She whips the coconut cream with an electric mixer until fluffy, adding a natural sweetener and vanilla extract if desired. It all makes for a perfectly healthy plant pie. Judith Fertig writes award-winning cookbooks plus foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

Our Pick of Plant Pie Recipes No-Bake Vegan Chocolate Pie

Yields: Filling for one nine-inch vegan pecan-date pie crust 18 oz vegan or dairy-free chocolate chips 1 (14-oz) can unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk ½ cup almond or cashew butter Place the chocolate chips in a medium mixing bowl. Spoon the almond butter on top of the chocolate chips. Set aside.

Vegan Pecan-Date Pie Crust The crust takes minutes to make and then press into a pie pan. Yields: One nine-inch pie crust 1½ cups pitted dates, preferably Medjool, coarsely chopped 1½ cups chopped pecans ¼ tsp sea salt 2 tsp coconut oil Soak the dates in hot water for 10 minutes. Remove the dates from the water and pat dry. Place the dates, pecans and salt in the bowl of a food processor and blend until the mixture sticks together. Lightly oil the bottom and sides of a nineinch pie or springform pan.

Spoon the entire can of coconut milk into a saucepan. Over medium heat, stir and bring to a simmer until small bubbles form around the perimeter of the pan. Pour the hot coconut milk over the chocolate chips and almond butter. Make sure all the chocolate is covered with the hot milk. Let it sit for three to five minutes to melt the chocolate. Whisk by hand until the mixture becomes smooth, shiny and dark. Pour into the prepared crust. Refrigerate the completed pie until it is firm and ready to serve. Inspired by and adapted from recipes by Nava Atlas, at VegKitchen.com, Fran Costigan at FranCostigan.com and Ashley Adams, who blogs at TheSpruceEats.com.

Press the date mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Adapted from a recipe by Nava Atlas, of Hudson Valley, NY, vegan cookbook author of Vegan Express: 160 Fast, Easy, & Tasty Plant-Based Recipes. Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) and non-bromated ingredients whenever possible. November 2018

1 tsp vanilla extract ½ Tbsp pumpkin pie spice ½ tsp sea salt ⅔ cup Medjool dates, pitted Preheat the oven to 350° F.

While the pumpkin mixture is heating, prepare a “slurry” by adding two to three tablespoons of water to the starch in a small bowl. Gently mix together until a thick liquid has formed; avoid clumps.

This pie filling is robust with spices and not too sweet. Add less spice and more maple syrup to taste. Yields: Filling for one nine-inch vegan pecan-date pie crust 2 large sweet potatoes ¾ cup coconut milk 3 Tbsp maple syrup 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 Tbsp arrowroot or tapioca starch 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon 1 Tbsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground cardamom ½ tsp ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground cloves ½ tsp sea salt Preheat the oven to 400° F. Poke a few holes in each sweet potato using a sharp knife. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake until very soft, about 45 minutes. Or microwave them for about eight minutes, checking every minute or so after the first five minutes. Remove from oven and slice the sweet potatoes open to allow the steam to escape. Let them sit a few minutes to cool. Lower the oven temperature to 375° F. 28

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When the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop out the insides and place them into a food processor bowl. Add the coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, cloves and salt. Process the filling until smooth, stopping to scrape the bowl as needed. Pour the batter into a prepared pie crust and smooth out the top with a rubber scraper. Bake about 40 minutes or until it sets. Remove the pie from oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing. Top with whipped coconut cream, if desired.

Add the slurry to the simmering pumpkin mixture and cook over medium heat for five to six minutes, stirring continuously. Transfer this mixture to a blender or food processor, add in the pitted (unsoaked) Medjool dates and blend until smooth. Pour the filling into a prepared crust, then bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool completely before slicing and serving. Adapted recipe and photo courtesy of Caitlin Shoemaker, of Miami, FL; FromMyBowl. com/pecan-pumpkin-custard-pie.

Adapted recipe and photo courtesy of Alissa Saenz, of Phoenixville, PA; Connoisseurus Veg.com/vegan-chai-spiced-sweet-potato-pie.

Pecan Pumpkin Custard Pie With no flour, this pie has a softer, more velvety texture. For a thicker filling, simply refrigerate before serving. Yields: Filling for one nine-inch vegan pecan-date pie crust 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin purée 1½ cups unsweetened plant milk such as soy or coconut for the creamiest texture ¼ cup arrowroot or tapioca starch

AwakeningCharlotte.com

photo by Stephen Blancett

Vegan Chai-Spiced Sweet Potato Pie

photo by Stephen Blancett

Add all ingredients, except for the starch and dates, into a large pot. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

inspiration

ABUNDANT LIVING Apostrophe/Shutterstock.com

10 Practices Open Doors

by Dennis Merritt Jones

ractices designed to enrich life with purpose and meaning yield empowering results for anyone that takes them to heart. Whether striving for a new job, higher salary, stronger relationships or spiritual acceleration, these “rules of the road” offer inspired guidance to free thinking and enlarge possibilities beyond anything we’ve ever imagined. Be one with life: Belief in our oneness with “more than enough” sets us free to receive. Be aware we live in an expanding universe: The creative life force of the universe constantly conspires for our good as we consciously participate in the process. Be accountable for individual consciousness: How we perceive ourself and our world defines our experience. Changing our point of view can change everything. Be focused: Establish and maintain a disciplined mind, focusing on what’s right with life rather than what’s wrong. Be in the flow: The law of circulation manifests as either a cornucopia of more than enough or a vortex of not enough, depending on how freely energy flows through us. Remember that we are the gatekeeper that directs the flow. Be passionate: Honoring our passions sets us free from the tyranny of a joyless life. Unearthing and living what creates joy, love and peace brings the gift of our authentic self to the party called life. Be blessed: To be blessed and know it is to affirm that we are a whole person, with nothing missing. Sharing our abundance becomes our daily norm. This state of being blesses our world. Be of service: When we serve others selflessly, we are recognizing that they matter. When someone knows they matter, they are intrinsically guided to demonstrate it in ways that serve others… and the circle is complete. Be courageous: Boldly move beyond false limits to horizons that call us to new levels of self-expression and fulfillment, often in collaboration with a spirited community.

Be a catalyst for good: Such actions connect us directly to the secret of creating an abundant life—our innate oneness with the universe. Dennis Merritt Jones, D.D., of St. Petersburg Beach, FL, speaks and writes books on human potential and spirituality. His latest, The Art of Abundance, is the source of this essay. Connect via DennisMerrittJones.com. November 2018

Copper device stops a cold naturally last holidays,” she said. “The kids had colds going around, but not me.” Some users say it also helps with sinuses. Attorney Donna Blight had a 2-day sinus headache. When her CopperZap arrived, she tried it. “I am shocked!” she said. “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” Some say copper stops nighttime stuffiness if used just before bed. One man said, “Best sleep I’ve had in years.” Copper may even stop flu if used earNew research: Copper stops colds if used early. ly and for several days. Lab technicians ew research shows you can went away completely.” It worked again placed 25 million live flu viruses on a stop a cold in its tracks if you CopperZap. No viruses were found alive every time he felt a cold coming on and take one simple step with a soon after. he hasn’t had a cold since. new device when you first feel a cold People have used it on cold sores He asked relatives and friends to try coming on. and say it can completely prevent ugly it. They said it worked for them, too, so Colds start when cold viruses get in outbreaks. You can also rub it gently he patented CopperZap™ and put it on your nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you on wounds, cuts, or lesions to combat the market. don’t stop them early, they spread in infections. Soon hundreds of people had tried it your airways and cause misery. The handle is curved and finely texand given feedback. Nearly 100% said But scientists have found a quick tured to improve the copper stops way to kill a virus. Touch it with copper. colds if used withcontact. It kills in 3 hours after the Researchers at labs and universities germs picked up first sign. Even up agree, copper is “antimicrobial.” It kills on fingers and microbes, such as viruses and bacteria, to 2 days, if they hands to protect still get the cold it just by touch. you and your That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyp- is milder and they family. tians used copper to purify water and feel better. Copper even heal wounds. They didn’t know about Users wrote kills deadly germs Sinus trouble, stuffiness, cold sores. that have become viruses and bacteria, but now we do. things like, “It Scientists say the high conductance stopped my cold right away,” and “Is it resistant to antibiotics. If you are near of copper disrupts the electrical balsupposed to work that fast?” sick people, a moment of handling it ance in a microbe cell, destroying it in Pat McAllister, age 70, received one may keep serious infection away. It may seconds. for Christmas and called it “one of the even save a life. Tests by the Environmental Protecbest presents ever. This little jewel really The EPA says copper still works tion Agency (EPA) show germs die fast works.” Now thousands of users have even when tarnished. It kills hundreds of on copper. Some hospitals tried copper stopped getting colds. different disease germs so it can prevent for surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. People often use CopperZap preserious or even fatal illness. ventively. Frequent flier Karen Gauci This cut the spread of MRSA and other CopperZap is made in the U.S. of used to get colds after crowded flights. illnesses by over half, and saved lives. pure copper. It has a 90-day full money Though skeptical, she tried it several The strong scientific evidence gave back guarantee when used as directed times a day on travel days for 2 months. inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When to stop a cold. It is $69.95. Get $10 off “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” he felt a cold coming on he fashioned each CopperZap with code NATA5. Businesswoman Rosaleen says when a smooth copper probe and rubbed it Go to www.CopperZap.com or call people are sick around her she uses Cop- toll-free 1-888-411-6114. gently in his nose for 60 seconds. “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold perZap morning and night. “It saved me Buy once, use forever.

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ADVERTORIAL

calendar of events

To register: CharlotteSpiritualCenter@gmail.com. 704-619-9029. UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5

4-Week Series: Reading the Akashic Records Certification – Nov 1, 8, 15 and 29. 1:30-3pm. Participants will learn a skill that allows them to connect to their Akashic records at any given time and location. Certificates of completion included. $125 for NookSters; $175 for non-NookSters. The Nook, 400 N Harbor Place Dr, Davidson. 704-8963111. KentCookInstitute.com/calendar.

Lillie Marshall New Possibilities Coaching: Small Group Book Study – Mondays, 7-9pm. Meet bi-weekly to discuss your thoughts, learnings and insights. Led by iPEC coach Lillie Marshall, we dive deep into a book that supports personal growth and expansion along your journey to your truest self. Location: Charlotte. Sign-up at LillieMarshall.com.

Career Verses Calling – 7pm. Carolina Center for Spiritual Awakening will kick off “Thursday Community Soul Night” with this insightful discussion and exploration. Breathe life into your soul by combining your passion and career, without forsaking an income or turning in a two-week notice. Love offering. Elemental Healing, 5200 Park Rd, Charlotte. AwakeningCarolina.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3 What is a Healthy Relationship? – 9am-12pm. Have you found yourself in a pattern of self-destruction at various points of your life while struggling to understand why? Find out how attachment and relational bonds impact our core beliefs. For women 18+. $75. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Library, Charlotte. 704-796-3720. Justin. jlperry@gmail.com. JustinPerryCounseling.com. Chi Running and Walking for Natural Free Flowing Movement – 9:30-11am. Learn how to use natural forces to run and walk more effortlessly and injury free. ChiRunning/Walking uses the principles of Tai Chi to cooperate with natural forces such as gravity. $40 or free with Gumbo purchase of running shoes. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com. Unmask Pain Relief! Learn About Stem Cell Healing – 10:30-11:30am. Before you medicate, discover the regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy. Stem cell therapy helps with knee injuries, arthritis, shoulder damage, hip, tendinitis and bursitis to name a few of the ailments that cause chronic pain. Free. The Nook, 400 N Harbor Place Dr, Davidson. 704-896-3111. KentCookInstitute.com/calendar. Belly Dancing Workshop – 1-3pm. This workshop delves into the holistic benefits of a beautiful art form. Through a combination of breath work, posture, belly dance technique, choreography and meditation, create more balance in your life through your relationship with dance. $25 pre-register; $35 day of. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com. Spiritual Psychic Readings –1-4pm. Intuitive, psychic, experienced readers/mediums, using the various tools of the trade help you find clarity and direction. Readings begin at $60. The Nook, 400 N Harbor Place Dr, Davidson. Call to reserve: 704896-3111. KentCookInstitute.com/calendar.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Vote on Election Day – 6:30am-7:30pm. All Mecklenburg County polling locations open. To find your polling place, visit vt.ncsbe.gov/PPLkup or call 704-336-2133. For locations and hours of early voting sites, visit vt.ncsbe.gov/OSSite.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Law of Attraction Discussion – 7pm. Thoughts and words really do shape your life and create your reality. We will be focusing on the teachings of Abraham Hicks and how to incorporate the teachings and practices in your daily life. Love offering. Elemental Healing, 5200 Park Rd, Charlotte. AwakeningCarolina.org. Essential Oils for Seasonal Support – 7-8pm. Learn how to use essential oils during the cold/flu season so the whole family can stay healthy. Free. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Library, Charlotte. 704-443-1759. BodyAndHands@ gmail.com. BodyAndHandsCharlotte.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9

markyourcalendar Rising Strong 3-Day Workshop Based on the Research of Dr. Brené Brown Discover what it takes to get back up and how owning our stories of struggle gives us the power to write a daring new ending.

November 9-11 Charlotte. Join Certified Daring Way Facilitator, Lillie Marshall.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Intuitive Tarot Card Training –10am-12pm. Bring your card decks for a methodology to use the card as an inspirational tool. Led by Master Tarot reader, Heidi E. Kent, Certified Medium. Various tarot decks are available at The NookStore. Class fee $35. The Nook, 400 N Harbor Place Dr, Davidson. 704-896-3111. KentCookInstitute.com/calendar.

Clothing Swap – 1-5pm. Join Casey Miler for a clothing swap. Clean out your closets, bring your old clothes and swap them with new treasures. Free. Will be held in the downstairs studio. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-2661443. OkraCharlotte.com.

Sacred Signs from the Universe – 11:30am-1pm. Learn what Sacred Signs are, how to ask for signs, and how to understand the answers you receive. Presented by Unity Spiritual Center and Dr. Adrian Calabrese. $15, includes Dr. Calabrese’s book. Park Rd Church, Room 503, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte.

The Bag Lady Psychic Fair – 12:30-4pm. Come and see what some of Charlotte’s most talented intuitive readers have to tell you before the holiday rush begins. Cost varies by reader and length of reading; admission to The Bag Lady is free. 1516 E 4th St, Charlotte. 704-338-9778. TheBagLadyNc@ gmail.com. The-Bag-Lady.biz. The Power of Gratitude & Generosity – 7pm. Learn to connect with the creative power of the Universe. Explore spiritual and practical ways to improve your health, wealth and happiness. Free, two-part program. Unity Spiritual Center meeting in the Milford Chapel at Park Rd Church, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. 704-6199029. UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Environmental Leaders from the Charlotte Region – 6:30-8pm. As the Charlotte region continues to grow, we are fortunate to have these individuals standing up for the environment and sustainability issues. Join us as we meet face to face with four outstanding nonprofit leaders. Free. Discovery Place Nature, 1658 Sterling Rd, Charlotte. Details: CrownCharlotte.org. Holistic Health Network Meeting – 6:45pm. The Holistic Nurses of Charlotte, invite you to hear Seth Conger of Charlotte Health Span discuss Functional Medicine and it’s potential to reverse chronic diseases and cognitive decline. Free. St. Gabriel’s Church Health Ministry Center, 3016 Providence Rd, Charlotte. Details: Belle Radenbaugh, 704-575-1153. Facebook: Holistic Health Network of Charlotte. Trusting Soulful Breathwork – 7-9pm. Join Andrea White for the ride of your life. Clearing of old emotional energy that’s been stored in our bodies. Healing of past trauma, renewed energy and vitality, clarity, peace and calm. $20 early bird; $30 day of. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 New Tools for Headache Sufferers with Ashley Friend PT, DPT – 5-6pm. Do you suffer from headaches? If so, this workshop examines various causes and explains how lifestyle modifications, exercise and specialty equipment can reduce the pain. 301 E Tremont Ave B, Charlotte. 980-298-6706. Roperpt.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Yoga with Instructor Amanda Towne – 7pm. Slow flow Vinyasa for all levels of experience. We will incorporate breath work as part of the practice to connect your mind, body and spirit. You will leave feeling peaceful and calm. Love offering. Elemental Healing, 5200 Park Rd, Charlotte. AwakeningCarolina.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Sierra Club Service Outing, Ribbon Walk Nature Preserve – 9am-12pm. Dig/cut/pull invasive plants so native plants can flourish. Work followed by a short hike led by park naturalist. Equipment provided, participants may bring own work gloves. Bring a lunch for after hike (optional). 4601 Nevin Rd, Charlotte. RSVP: MarylouBuc@aol. com. CharlotteSierraClub.org. Sierra Club Outings Leader Training – 9am 12pm, Leader Training, 1-5pm, Basic First Aid with Dr. Wes

November 2018

Wallace. Age 18 or older, Sierra member (can join on training day $15). A provisional outing is required for certification. $20 all-day training; $10 half-day. Cornwell Center (Myers Park Baptist Church), 2001 Selwyn Ave, Charlotte. Knrigsbee@gmail. com or Rbadams91@gmail.com. Register by Nov 14: NC-Outings-Leader-Training-101.eventbrite.com. A Bold Practice for Your Busy Brain: Slow it down. Stretch It Out. Create Your Life – 10am12pm. Join Jenn Shull as she uses essential oils, breathe work, meditation, music, and deep stretch yoga to slow you down. $20 early bird; $30 day of. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com. Mystical Shamanic Evolution – 1-2:30pm. Join P.E. Calvert on a journey bridging ancient magic with today’s reality. Everyone is welcome. $35. The Nook, 400 N Harbor Place Dr, Davidson. Call to reserve: 704-896-3111. KentCookInstitute.com/calendar. Reiki Share Circle – 3-4pm. Help your body return to balance with certified Reiki practitioners. $5. The Nook, 400 N Harbor Place Dr, Davidson. 704-8963111. KentCookInstitute.com/calendar.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18 The Power of Gratitude & Generosity – 7pm. Learn to connect with the creative power of the Universe. Explore spiritual and practical ways to improve your health, wealth and happiness. Free, two-part program. Unity Spiritual Center meeting in the Milford Chapel at Park Rd Church, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. 704-6199029. UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Charlotte’s 43rd Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service – 7pm. Join Carolina Center for Spiritual Awakening as we come together with other houses of faith across the Charlotte area to welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds to celebrate diversity and pray for unity. Location: Myers Park Baptist Church. MeckMin.org. 704-292-1062. AwakeningCarolina.org.

songs from her upcoming release and the amazing talent of her on-the-spot songwriting and collaboration with Rev. Christy and the community. You will be amazed. Plus a Sunday evening concert. 12125 Statesville Rd, Huntersville. 704-292-1062. AwakeningCarolina.org. Thanksgiving Service & Potluck Dinner – 5:30/6:30pm. Join us as we share songs, meditations, and messages of thanks and appreciation. Potluck dinner at 6:30pm. Bring a dish to share. All are welcome. Unity Spiritual Center meets in the Milford Chapel at Park Rd Church, 3900 Park Rd in Charlotte. 704-619-9029. UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.org. Amy Steinberg in Concert – 7pm. Uplifting, enlightening and hilarious with a voice that can burn the house down, that is Amy Steinberg. Make sure to mark your calendar for this high energy, contagious and fun concert. Check our website for location and details. AwakeningCarolina.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Healing Touch with Ann Tarwater – 12-1pm. A mindful approach to establishing boundaries within yourself, understanding self-treatment options to relieve stress, pain, and anxiety and learning the seven energy areas of the body. 301 E Tremont Ave B, Charlotte. 980-298-6706. Roperpt.com. Sound Healing Meditation at The Salt Pad – 7:308:45pm. Experience the healing power of Himalayan Salt coupled with powerful sound healing therapy and guided meditation to gently massage the cellular and energetic body back into harmony, while clearing blockages and restoring vitality. $55. The Salt Pad, 1600 E Woodlawn Rd, #310, Charlotte. 828-246-3335. Katie@ZenWithinAcademy.com. ZenWithinAcademy.com/upcomingworkshops.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Insight Meditation Community of Charlotte – Hosts Tashi Kyil Tibetan Buddhist Monks, refugees. Various items refugees have made for sale to raise money for monastery in India. Dharma talk, meditation, chants. Free. Milford Chapel, Park Rd Baptist Church, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. IMCCharlotte.org.

Special Musical Guest – 11am. Singer/Songwriter, Amy Steinberg, will return home to Charlotte from San Diego to share a very special Sunday service. Enjoy new

Sierra Club Central Piedmont Group Meeting – 6:30pm, pizza. 7pm, announcements and information on a variety of environmental issues. Program:

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film, “Chasing Ice”. Check website for details. Free and open to the public. Mahlon Adams Pavilion, Freedom Park, 2435 Cumberland Ave, Charlotte. Roger. Diedrich@SierraClub.org. CharlotteSierraClub.org. Mindfulness Meditation Class – 7- 8:30pm. Learn the basic principles of mindfulness meditation, share experiences, and develop confidence in your meditation practice. $30; $20 before Wednesday. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. Register at: 704-266-1443 or OkraCharlotte.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Sacred Heart Journey – 7pm. A musical mediation with Christy Snow. Music to open the heart. Guitar, flute, songs and chanting, interspersed with Rumi poetry and contemplative spoken word take you within and you will emerge feeling renewed, refreshed and reconnected. Love offering. Elemental Healing, 5200 Park Rd, Charlotte. AwakeningCarolina.org.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30

markyourcalendar The Daring Way 3-Day Workshop Based on the Research of Dr. Brené Brown Focus is on developing shame resilience skills and a courage practice that transforms the way we live. Learn to show up, be seen and live brave.

November 30-Dec 2 Charlotte.

plan ahead SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 Activate The Gift Within You – 10am-6pm. Learn to identify your authentic consciousness, how to fulfill your desires (manifest) through the language

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of feeling, how to activate your innate power and more. Author Kate Jegede will be gifting a few signed copies of her best selling book, Infinite Possibility. Bridge Holistic Healing, Cornelius. $99. Registration and more info: 980-202-1055.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 3 Charlotte’s Official 250th Anniversary – Noon. Enjoy music, cake and remarks from city leaders. CharlotteMecklenburg Libraries and Schools will also celebrate throughout the day. Trade & Tryon. CLT250.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 CBD and Restorative Yoga/Massage – 7-8:30pm. Free samples and relaxing restorative poses using a variety of props to deepen the experience. Each participant will receive a series of traditional massage releases, Thai yoga bodywork, and Vitaflex foot massage with oil application. $25 early bird; $35 thereafter. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8

markyourcalendar Tarot 101 with Heather Gaffney Darnell Learn Tarot history and structure, how to read the cards by reflecting on the images and how to use the images cards to provide insight to make choices that are aligned with our authenticity.

December 8 · 1-3pm $35 Register: 704-662-0946. Ahlara International, 155 Joe V Knox Ave, Mooresville

AhlaraInternational.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18 How to Bring Yoga to Teens and Schools – Jan 18-21. 9am-6pm. Learn how to teach yoga to teens, adapt yoga to a classroom setting, bring stress reduction and self care to the teachers and administrators and how to establish your kids yoga business. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. To apply: TwistKidsYoga@gmail.com. 704-266-1443. More details at: OkraCharlotte.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31

Are you suffering from any of these symptoms? • • • •

Stubborn Weight • Hair Loss/Dry Skin Unexplained Fatigue • Low Libido Brain Fog/Poor Memory • Insomnia Cold Extremities

You may be: • • • •

an undiagnosed thyroid case. on the wrong level of medication for your thyroid. on the wrong type of thyroid medication. allergic to the type of medication or the fillers in it.

Your thyroid gland controls your entire metabolism down to the cellular level; everything depends on its normal functioning. In the US, there is an epidemic of untreated hypothyroidism. Due to: • Incomplete and inaccurate blood testing; at best only 2 to 3 of the blood thyroid markers will be tested. • Checks are not carried out for important precursors to determine whether thyroid hormones can be produced/converted from T4 to active T3. • Medical statistical reference ranges are outdated and based only on a group of sick patients. • The thyroid drug of choice has been recalled by the FDA many times due to inconsistencies. • Autoimmunity often does not get tested. “I have 38 years of experience in holistic and functional medicine. I will use state of the art testing to get to the root cause of your symptom picture so that your health can be restored, with the appropriate guidance and specialized nutrition.”

Call us for a FREE 10 minute phone consult or make an appointment and start the process of getting your life and health back to normal!

Call my office at: 704-776-4185 or 980-206-0946

Organ DeStress – 9am-4:30pm. By appointment. Dr. Rachel uses a 25-minute specialty protocol to reflexively reduce tension on the nervous system and internal organs. Receive a one-on-one session of Primal Reflex Release and Strain Counter Strain to reduce pain and tension. $40. 103 Dover St, Pineville. 704-889-0160. Rachel@IgniteMke.com. IgniteWellness.us.

PLANS CHANGE! Please call ahead to confirm dates and times. November 2018

on going events NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 9th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Calendar@AwakeningCharlotte.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. To submit online, visit AwakeningCharlotte.com.

sunday Metaphysical Bible Study with Reverend David Hulse – 9:45-10:45am. Learn to explain scripture from a more enlightened and metaphysical point of view. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. SLCofChalotte.org. Unity of Charlotte Sunday Celebration Service – 10:30am. Rev Marty Bacher leads this spiritual community that offers a vibrant Sunday Celebration Service and inspiring messages. 401 E Arrowood Rd. 704-523-0062. UnityofCharlotte.org. Carolina Center for Spiritual Awakening – 11am. Teaching empowering and practical New Thought principles for living our best life and making a positive difference in the world. 12125 Statesville Rd, Huntersville. 980-292-1062. AwakeningCarolina.org. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte – 11am. Meditations and messages with a vibrant, inclusive, metaphysical family that honors you on your spiritual journey. Spiritual Light Center of Charlotte, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte. 704-599-1180. SLCofChalotte.org. Light House Spiritual Fellowship – 11am12:30pm. Heart-centered gathering that explores the Esoteric, Mystical, Wisdom Teachings of various faiths and philosophies. Light House Spiritual Center, 645 Carpenter Ave, Mooresville. 704-658-1442. Info@LighthouseSpiritualCenter. com. LighthouseSpiritualCenter.com. Light House Healing Clinic – Last Sunday of the month. 2-5pm. 30-minute, mini healing sessions that include several variations and combinations of hands-on energy healing techniques. Donation. Light House Spiritual Center, 645 Carpenter Ave, Mooresville. 704-658-1442. Info@Lighthouse SpiritualCenter.com. LighthouseSpiritualCenter.com. Unity Spiritual Center – 5:30pm. Positive music, centering meditations and inspiring metaphysical talks. Non-denominational. Milford Chapel at Park Rd Church, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. 704-619-9029. UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.org.

monday Beginner Yoga – 5:30pm. Designed to balance body and mind this class is ideal for anyone interested in balance and flexibility. $5. The Hut Pineville, 413 Johnston Dr, Pineville. 704-889-0160. Rachel@ Ignitemke.com. Ignitewellness.us. 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, 3900 Park Rd, Rm 206/505, Charlotte. 704-619-9029. UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.org. Pranic Healing Meditation – 7-8pm. Find out how Pranic Healing can help you heal, feel more relaxed,

Charlotte Edition

and improve your overall health. Email for cost. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200-C, Community/Movement Room #1, Charlotte. Jayachandransadish@gmail.com.

tuesday Tuesdays Yoga Therapeutics – 12-12:50pm. Yoga postures to address issues such as range of motion. Geared to students beginning yoga at mid life and beyond. $12 drop-in. The Cornwell Center, 2100 Selwyn Ave, Charlotte. 704-927-0774. Pjisaac@ Mpbconline.org. CornwellCenter.org. Weekly Daytime Meditation Session – 12-1pm. 30 minutes of silent mindful meditation, brief instructions, Q & A. Donation. Park Rd Baptist Church, Milford Chapel, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. InsightMeditationCharlotte@gmail.com. IMCCharlotte.org. After Lunch Meditation – 12:30-1:30pm. Learn the importance of meditation, the power of your thoughts, intentions, clearing your chakras, and stress reduction. $10. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200-C, Community/Movement Room #2, Charlotte. 980-210-6841. Info@HeavenlyButterflyBoutique. com. TheHeavenlyButterflyBoutique.com.

markyourcalendar Mindful Women of Ahlara Join local author, inspirational speaker and meditation leader, Joyce Marie Sheldon, for this angel-inspired event that is more-than-ameditation. A discussion group to grow the Divine Feminine Spirit.

Donation. Park Rd Baptist Church, Milford Chapel, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. InsightMeditation Charlotte@gmail.com. IMCCharlotte.org.

thursday Beginner Yoga – 5:30pm. Designed to balance body and mind this class is ideal for anyone interested in balance and flexibility. $5. The Hut Pineville, 413 Johnston Dr, Pineville. 704-889-0160. Rachel@ Ignitemke.com. Ignitewellness.us. Qoya Dance – 5:45-7:15pm. A movement practice for women combining elements of yoga, dance, and feminine movement. No experience necessary. Class pass or $16 drop-in. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com. Pranic Healing Meditation – 7-8pm. Find out how Pranic Healing can help you heal, feel more relaxed, and improve your overall health. Email for cost. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200-C, Community/Movement Room #1, Charlotte. Jayachandransadish@gmail.com.

friday Fridays Gentle Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. A safe, comfortably challenging yoga experience, utilizing mindful breathing, slow flow into poses, and guided relaxation at the end of class. $16 drop-in. Noda Yoga, 3201 N Davidson St, Ste B, Charlotte. 980-292-6005. Manager@NodaYoga.com.

saturday SoulCollage – 1:30-4:30pm. 2nd Saturday of the month. A lighthearted collage process that allows one to explore their life and inner wisdom. $45, includes supplies. Elemental Healing Charlotte, 5200 Park Rd, Ste 200-C, Creative Arts Studio, Charlotte. 704-807-3635. Mwyche3@icloud.com. ElementalHealingCharlotte.com.

Tuesdays · 6-7pm $12 Ahlara International 155 Joe V. Knox Ave, Mooresville. 704-662-0946

AhlaraInternational.com Meditation and Discussion – 7pm. Meditation (guided and silent) followed by a short teaching and discussion. For beginners and longtime meditators. Milford Chapel at Park Rd Church, 3900 Park Rd, Charlotte. 704-619-9029. UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.org.

wednesday 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 dropin. Okra Yoga, 1912 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte. 704-266-1443. OkraCharlotte.com. Weekly Wednesday Meditation – 7-9pm. Silent mindful meditation at 7:30pm followed by Dharma talk and discussion. Practice instructions at 7pm.

AwakeningCharlotte.com

CH Text A to RNA 33 to 66 T rec flip eiv 4 e bo d o ma k of igital gaz you ine r

community resource guide

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

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, L. Ac, MAOM 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. P ain conditions, digestive disorders, stress, women’s health and chronic disorders. Classes in authentic Qigong, Tai Chi and Taoist yoga.

TWO TREES ACUPUNCTURE

Paula Kearney, L.Ac. & David Bonilla, L.Ac. 1318-A3 Central Ave, Plaza Midwood 704-770-1318 TwoTreesAcupuncture.com Providing private and community acupuncture services, herbal medicine, bodywork sessions, classes and more to the city of Charlotte. See ad, page 14.

ALLERGY AAIR OF CHARLOTTE

Elizabeth, Blakeney, Steele Creek 704-910-1402 AAIRofCharlotte.com Dedicated to a more progressive approach for treating allergy, asthma and immunology patients. Dr. O’Connor is one of only three allergy specialists nationwide to complete the University of Arizona Fellowship of Integrative Medicine. See ad, page 29.

BIOFIELD TUNING ENERGETIC APOTHECARY

Tammy Schoolcraft 325 Matthews Mint Hill Rd, Ste 106 Matthews 704-907-3380 • EnergeticApothecary.com Charlotte’s only Biofield Tuning Practitioner. Uses sound and vibration to resolve chronic pain, anxiety, depression, grief, overthinking-busy mind, adrenal fatigue and more. Also offering Reiki and Medical Reiki. Call today for free consultation.

CBD DO NO HARMACY

4400 E Independence Blvd Inside American Beauty Garden Center 704-334-8651 DoNoHarmacy.com Offers knowledge and expertise on a full line of quality CBD and hemp extracts, pain creams, distillates, tinctures, capsules, pre-filled vaporizer cartridges and high-strength CBD tinctures by Charlotte’s Queen City Concentrates. See ad, page 23.

STANLEY SPECIALTY PHARMACY 3120 Latrobe Dr, Ste 200 704-370-6612 StanleyRx.com/CBD

Charlotte’s CBD experts. CBD consultations available with a licensed Pharmacist ($50 per ½ hour). Consultation fee applied to any CBD purchase. Professional grade CBD products available in store and online. See ad, page 32.

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 8.

STANLEY SPECIALTY PHARMACY 3120 Latrobe Dr, Ste 200 704-370-6612 StanleyRx.com

Charlotte’s most experienced & trusted compounding pharmacy. Skilled pharmacist can prepare custom medications to meet needs of the individual patient. Specializing in women’s & men’s health as well as veterinary medications. See ad, page 32.

COMPREHENSIVE WELLNESS PROGRAMS BRIDGE HOLISTIC HEALING Leslie Wells, DC Cornelius • 980-202-1055 BridgeHolisticHealing.com

25 years experience expertly facilitating personalized wellness programs. Uses groundbreaking new methods of body/mind/ energy/consciousness alignment: NetworkSpinal, Integrative Breathwork, ARC healing, Detox Footbath, The Journey®, Spiritled Guidance, Life-coaching and more. Call for a free 15-minute consultation. See ad, page 23.

DENTISTRY GORELIK DENTISTRY 2740 W Arrowood Rd 704-553-1627 GorelikDentistry.com

Holistic dental practice committed to whole-body care, high-quality dental treatments, and excellent customer service. Stateof-the-art office certified for ozone therapy, sedation, metal-free zirconia implants and SMART treatments. Full-office water filtration, salt room and circadian lighting.

COLONICS 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.

Send energy to every cell in your body with an Aqua-Chi Footbath! Anti-Aging • Improve Sleep Fewer Allergies • Reduce Inflammation Boost Immune System

By Appointment Aleesha Ashlie detoxesyou.com

704.995.5337

November 2018

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 9.

ASTHMA, ALLERGIES, RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS?

Pure Genius Smart Floors 404-771-9714 LauzonFlooring.com/Pure-Genius High quality FSC hardwood flooring with exclusive t e c h n o l o g y, P u r e Genius – a light-activated, air-purifying agent made of titanium dioxide proven to purify indoor air by up to 85%. No solvents, VOCs, formaldehyde.

EDUCATION ONLINE COURSES

ECO-FRIENDLY HOMES BURGESS SUPPLY CO 15435 NC-73, Huntersville 704-875-1338

One of the largest selections of eco-friendly flooring in the Charlotte area: Marmoleum natural linoleum/cork tiles, Lauzon high quality hardwood flooring with “pure genius” options, and a vast selection of wool carpet.

400 N Harbor Place Dr, Ste C, Davidson 704-896-3111 KentCookInstitute.com Accredited school with classes in meditation, reiki and philosophical metaphysics. The KentCook Institute on Lake Norman has a full curriculum. HSA accepted. See ad, page 11.

FLOAT THERAPY FLOAT CAROLINA

Float Center and Salt Spa 105-D Waxhaw Professional Park Dr Waxhaw • FloatCarolina.com

Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail. ~Kinky Friedman

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 BAG LADY: INTUITIVE GIFTS 1516 E. 4th St. 704-338-9778 The-Bag-Lady.biz

A beloved institution for 23 years offering products and classes that uplift, enlighten, educate and inspire. Our goal is to provide opportunities for spiritual growth and community building for years to come. See ad, page 18.

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 11.

Charlotte Edition

AwakeningCharlotte.com

HEALTHY MEALS NOURISH CHARLOTTE

Delivery & Pickup to Mecklenburg+ 1-855-442-FOOD • NourishCharlotte.com Nourish delivers eco-friendly, healthy gluten-free vegan food to Charlotte and beyond. Also offers pick up locations to support Greater Charlotte. Meals are nutritious, organic, clean and plant-based.

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, back cover.

HYPNOSIS HELPING PEOPLE FIND LIFE SOLUTIONS Heidi E Kent, C.Ht. & Marsha G Cook, C.Ht. 704-896-3111

Manage fears and change your belief systems. Specializing in transcending your circumstances. We offer spiritual support for all people; focus on past lives, Akashic records and spiritual healing. Relief is an appointment away. HSA accepted. See ad, page 11.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 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 2201 Park Rd, Ste B 704-626-6771 • SheilaKilbane.com Dr. Kilbane is a board-certified integrative pediatrician who specializes in finding the root cause of illness including reflux, eczema, allergies, recurrent ear and sinus infections, asthma, constipation, abdominal pain and more.

INTUITIVE SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE TAILORED WISDOM

Mary E. Amon TailoredWisdom.com • 704-237-0734 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.

MASSAGE

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT ALLIANCE WELLNESS CENTERS

JEFFREY SHOAF, LMBT (#14847)

831 Arbor St NE, Concord 704-766-8535 Mike@AllianceWellnessCenters.com Schedulicity.com/scheduling/AWCFHR

Certified Yoga Therapist 726 E Blvd Charlotte, NC 309-287-0576 JBShoaf113.wix.com/jeffreyshoaf

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!

MEDITATION COACH

Unique holistic center that provides mind, body, spirit care. Our attentive staff empowers and helps clients heal through massage therapy, personal training, wellness coaching and yoga. Schedule a consultation online today.

NATURAL DOCTOR

KATIE SUTTON

DR. MEGAN DING, ND

Meditation Coach. Intuitive Channel. Sound Healer. 828-246-3335 ZenWithinAcademy.com Katie is an intuitive channel in the form of a meditation coach and sound healer. Her self-activation meditations coupled with sound and vibration therapy takes clients on a healing journey of selfexploration and re-discovery.

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

LIFE COACH LILLIE MARSHALL, ACC, CDWF, ELI-MP New Possibilities Coaching Charlotte • 704-408-2359 LillieMarshall.com

Connect with your true self through coaching, book studies a n d w o r k s h o p s . D i s c o v e r, breakthrough and take action with courage to step into your life purpose. Visit LillieMarshall. com or call today for a free discovery session.

FULL BODY THERMOGRAPHY IDENTIFY YOUR INFLAMMATION, TARGET & TREAT IT!

LYMPHATIC CLEANSE

Non-radiation Digital Imaging Liver & Lymphatic Cleansing Gut Microbiome Reset Immune Support Cardiovascular Support

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 37.

DILLON NATURAL HEALTH 704-333-9991

DillonNaturalHealth.com

421-B S. Sharon Amity Rd., Charlotte NC 28211 November 2018

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN CAROLINAS NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Dr Michael Smith 1114 Sam Newell Rd, Ste A 704-708-4404 • CarolinasNaturalHealth.com Diabetes, Depression, Digestive Disorders, A llergies, Auto-immune disease, A nxiety, ADHD. Charlotte’s only doctor specializing in homeopathy. We focus on treating YOU to uncover the cause of your health condition and empower you to better health! S ee ad, back cover.

OF THE EARTH WELLNESS, LLC

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 5.

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 11.

REFLEXOLOGY Eva Gajewski Charlotte 704-774-9629 BalancedEnergyReflexology.com

Certified Reflexologist that uses reflexes in feet and hands to promote inner balance. Reflexology reduces stress, improves blood flow, nerve impulses and energy throughout the body. A balanced body is a healthy body. See ad, page 12.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

REIKI

Myofascial Release & Medical Therapeutic Yoga 301 E. Tremont Ave, Ste B RoperPT.com • 980-298-6706

A REIKI LIFE ACADEMY®

Our mission is to increase function, restore motion and improve strength and stamina through myofascial release. Roper PT is privately owned with highly skilled manual therapists who offer patient–centered care.

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 14.

Ignite Wellness Physical Therapy, LLC 103 Dover St, Pineville 704-889-0160 • 414-552-0820 Blending the art and science of living movement, Dr. Rachel guides your body through healing to reclaim your life with health and joy.

5200 Park Rd, Ste 105, Charlotte 704-996-4079 AReikiLife.com

REIKI MASTER, STARSEED SHAMAN Light Language Channel 645 Carpenter Ave, Mooresville LightHouseSpiritualCenter.com 704-658-1442

PSYCHIC PSYCHICS AND SENIOR TEACHERS 400 N Harbor Place Dr, Ste C, Davidson 704-896-3111 KentCookInstitute.com

First Saturday each month from 1-4pm. Professional Certified Tarot, Numerology, Palmistry, Medicine Cards, Spiritual Readings. Fees begin at $60. Call today for an appointment. See ad, page 11.

Charlotte Edition

SACRED GROVE RETREAT CENTER 15720 Collie Rd, Gold Hill, NC SacredGroveRetreat.com 704-299-5124 Info@SacredGroveRetreat.com

A personal and l e a d e r s h i p transformational facility that offers individual and group retreat facilities, lodging and team building experiences. A short drive from Charlotte on 11 peaceful acres that provide a safe and supportive space.

BALANCED ENERGY REFLEXOLOGY

ROPER PHYSICAL THERAPY

DR. RACHEL THIEL

RETREAT CENTERS

AwakeningCharlotte.com

Dammah Debbie Chisolm combines Reiki with intuitive energy healing; channeling Christ Diamond Light for deep energetic renewal. Facilitates connection with higher self and Spirit; using color, crystals, the laying on of hands, and Light Language. See ad, page 6.

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.

SPIRITUAL CENTERS CAROLINA CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

Rev. Christy Snow, Founder & Spiritual Director AwakeningCarolina.org 980-292-1062 Looking for a spiritual home? Join us for live positive music, meditation, and a message to awaken your Divine Potential. We welcome all people and all paths. Youth church, weekly classes and events. See ad, page 33.

LIGHT HOUSE SPIRITUAL CENTER Rev. Kendall Heath, Interfaith Minister 645 Carpenter Ave, Mooresville LightHouseSpiritualCenter.com 704-658-1442

Sunday Interfaith Spiritual Fellowship Services 11am12:30 pm. Weekly, heartcentered gatherings exploring the esoteric, mystical, wisdom teachings of many faiths and philosophies. Services include teachings, dialogue, and experiential group learning, music and coffee/tea. See ad, page 6.

SPIRITUAL LIGHT CENTER OF CHARLOTTE

Rev. Rebecca Nagy and Rev. David Hulse 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. 704-599-1180 SLCofCharlotte.org 11am Sunday service and meditation. Spiritual, not religious? Looking for a vibrant, inclusive and metaphysical spiritual family that honors you on your spiritual journey? Then SLCC is for you. Weekly celebration service, classes, workshops and more. See ad, page 24.

SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE ORDAINED MINISTER, MENTOR

Integral Soul Healer, Intuitive Medium 645 Carpenter Ave, Mooresville LightHouseSpiritualCenter.com 704-658-1442 Kendall Heath combines psychospiritual modalities and alternative healing techniques, detailed intuitive guidance, Kundalini & Tantric energy/ chakra work, and spiritual mentorship on the natural process of spiritual growth and personal transformation. See ad, page 6.

VETERINARIAN 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 22.

UNITY OF CHARLOTTE

Marty Bacher, Spiritual Leader UnityofCharlotte.org 704-523-0062 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 14.

SUSTAINABILITY CATAWBA RIVERKEEPER FOUNDATION 715 N Church St, Ste 120 704-679-9494 CatawbaRiverkeeper.org

We educate and advocate to protect the Catawba-Wateree River Basin’s lakes, rivers and streams for everyone who depends on and enjoys them. Join us by visiting our website and becoming a member today.

UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER OF CHARLOTTE

UnitySpiritualCenterOfCharlotte.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” 5:30pm. Monday ACIM study group at 7pm. Tuesday meditation at 7pm. Monthly special events. See ad, page 24.

SPIRITUAL COACH REV. CHRISTY SNOW

Charlotte & Lake Norman ChristySnow.com 704-516-7113 Christy@ChristySnow.com Sessions are customized for each individual or couple. Christy’s approach is rooted in her metaphysical education and experience. “There’s a spiritual solution to every problem.” Wayne Dyer. See ad, page 33.

WEIGHT LOSS CAROLINAS WEIGHT LOSS INSTITUTE Gastonia • 704-271-9757 Matthews/Ballantyne • 704-243-8560 CWLI.net

Developer of the "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.

SUSTAIN CHARLOTTE

Monthly Educational Meetings (locations vary monthly) SustainCharlotte.org A nonprofit organization working to inspire choices that lead to healthy, equitable and vibrant communities across the Charlotte metro region for generations to come. Become a member today.

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 37.

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!

A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself. ~Jim Morrison November 2018

Tired Of Your Health Taking Control Of Your Life?

TAKE IT BACK!

WE ARE DIFFERENT - we identify the root-cause of your health concern and develop a personalized lifestyle program to address it

Empowering People to Better Health Since 2005 Acid Reflux • Autoimmune Diseases • Diabetes • Digestive Disorders

Stress, Hormones & Health Seminar November 6, 7 and 13th 6:30 pm

Dr. Michael Smith Naturopathic Physician

Space is limited, Registration is required. Register: CarolinasNaturalHealth.com/events or call: 704-708-4404

Virtual Appointments Available CarolinasNaturalHealth.com 40

Charlotte Edition

AwakeningCharlotte.com