Natural Awakenings Naples/Fort Myers December 2015

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Awakening to Spirit

FREE

Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

Sweetly Vegan

No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

Natural Happy Fragrances New Year

The DIY Guide to A Fail-Proof Recipe Beautifully Safe Scents for an Awesome 2016

December 2015 | Collier / Lee Edition | swfl.NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

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contact us Publisher/Senior Editor Sharon Bruckman Naples/Fort Myers Editors Randy Kambic Linda Sechrist National Editor S. Alison Chabonais Calendar Editor Sara Peterson Design & Production Lisa Avery Stephen Gray-Blancett Steve Hagewood C. Michele Rose Sales & Marketing Christine Miller Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Heather Gibbs Accounting Amie Delozier Kara Scofield Website Rachael Oppy Nicholas Bruckman

4933 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 203 Naples, FL 34103 Phone: 239-434-9392 Fax: 239-434-9513 swfl.NaturalAwakeningsMag.com NaturalAwakeningsMag.com Š2015 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 supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised.

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

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letterfrompublisher

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oin the largest database of health-conscious and eco-minded, spiritual singles for FREE and manifest an extraordinary relationship!

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’ve found that setting a conscious intention to experience the magic of the holidays and the increased opportunities to love and feel connected opens me up to experiencing ordinary activities and interactions in extraordinary ways.

By recognizing and savoring these experiences, it all creates deep grooves of interconnectedness and gratitude. These days, I find myself more often becoming the source generating the experiences I am looking for while lifting others’ spirits right along with mine.

To keep myself in this heart-centered receptive mode, I have to slow down and pause often from whatever I am doing to focus on prayer, meditation or many of the other tools mentioned in this month’s special “Awakening to Spirit” edition as part of my daily practice.

In this mode I also more easily embrace an attitude of gratitude. Every day, our lives are filled with blessings large and small, and I, like you, find that taking time to consciously reflect on them opens us up to receive even more.

The holidays are a prime time to express love and appreciation to loved ones and friends in heartfelt ways. Have you ever noticed how quickly you feel the joy of connection when you appreciate someone? What a gift it is to kindly see one another.

Remember what it felt like being a kid during the holidays—believing in the magic of Santa Claus and miracles? We all need to feel that way again. The world needs to believe it’s possible to have love, peace and joy everywhere. When we celebrate Christ’s birth into the world, we embrace this possibility. It all begins by one heart linking with another heart. So open it up wide and spread it around. The world needs a love fest so huge that everyone wants to join in.

I have a holiday card that says BELIEVE on the front. I believe… and hope you do, too.

Peace, joy and love to all,

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher

Happy Holidays from the Natural Awakenings Team

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newsbriefs healthbriefs therapybriefs globalbriefs ecotip actionalerts community spotlight readersnapshot greenliving healthykids fitbody businessspotlight naturalpet calendar classifieds resourceguide

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact Christine Miller at 239-272-8155 or email ChristineM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com for Collier County or Lisa Doyle at 239-851-4729 or email LisaD@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com for Lee County.

Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: NAEditor@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month. Or visit: swfl.NaturalAwakeningsMag.com/Resources CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email calendar events to: NACalendar@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com or fax to 239-434-9513. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

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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 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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.

34 SWEETLY VEGAN

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No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

by Judith Fertig

38 ‘TIS THE SEASON

FOR EFFORTLESS ENTERTAINING

by Linda Sechrist

42 SHARON SALZBERG ON MINDFULNESS

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Simple Ways to Be in the Present Moment

by April Thompson

44 AWAKENING TO SPIRIT Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

by Richard Davenport

48 ATTUNING TO THE STILL, SMALL VOICE WITHIN

Six Local Experts Share Their Experiences and Practices

by Linda Sechrist

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54 HEAVENLY SCENTS How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrances

by Kathleen Barnes

58 DR. NEAL BARNARD ON DIET, LIFESTYLE AND BRAIN HEALTH

by Sandy Pukel

60 EAT, BARK AND BE MERRY

Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

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by Sandra Murphy

63 RECIPE FOR A

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Fail-Proof Ingredients for a Glorious 2016

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newsbriefs Yoga Retreat at Naples Grande Beach Resort

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iselle Toner, director of Eternity Yoga’s Power Fusion, a Yoga Alliance-registered 200-hour program, will lead an Ultimate Retreat in Paradise from December 6 through 10 at Naples Grande Beach Resort. The retreat will be a sanctuary for the body, mind and spirit, teaching attendees how to discover their particular body type and implement proper modalities to nourish all the senses through the foundations of ayurveda.

GiselleToner “This is a unique opportunity for beginners to advanced practitioners and teachers to reconnect to nature, yoga, meditation and the sister science to yoga, known as Perfect Health, Deepak Chopra’s signature course in ayurveda,” says Toner. “Feel the crystal clear, warm, healing waters of the Gulf and the stillness in your center as you nurture to your very core.”

Toner, a 500-hour registered yoga teacher, will also conduct a full threemonth Power Fusion Yoga Training Course for teaching certification from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from February 6 through April 24, 2016, in Naples.

Cost: Retreat is $1,255 for full course in ayurveda, yoga and meditation, four nights’ accommodations, meals, discounts on massages and more; or $475 for course only and full use of resort, pools and amenities. Power Fusion Training is $6,587 in full or three payments of $2,500 over three months. Location: 475 Seagate Dr. For more information, call 609-545-9642 or visit Eternity-Yoga.com.

See ad, page 26.

Nutrition Coaching Series in Bonita Springs

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new group coaching series will help participants start the new year on a healthier note by teaching them how to fuel the body and thrive without feeling deprived. Certified International Health Coach for D-Signed Nutrition Kristi Willems will lead the six-week program that meets from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, beginning January 13, in Bonita Springs.

“Yes, we are what we eat, but there’s so much more to the healthy living puzzle,” says Willems, about what she terms a simple, step-bystep process to look better, feel and live better.

Cost: $125 if paid in full by Jan. 12, 2016; $25 per class drop-in rate (discounted based on the number of individual sessions attended). Location: 3532 Bonita Bay Blvd., Ste. 300. For more information or to register, call 239-676-5249, email Kristi@ D-SignedNutrition.com or visit D-SignedNutrition.com. See ad, page 66.

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New Spa Services and Creative Journaling Course at Shangri-La

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o celebrate its new organic spa services, Shangri-La Healing Arts Center, in Bonita Springs, will hold an Open House from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., December 10 and 11, with regular sessions beginning December 15. Attendees can experience the infrared or traditional sauna, steam room, facial room and garden solarium.

Consultations with the center’s holistic coach help clients determine ways to improve health, including an extensive menu of massage and healing modalities.

Certified Master Life Coach, creative healing artist and Occupational Therapist Susan Sholle-Martin will teach You’ve Got Soul Mail: Creative Journaling for the Body, Mind and Spirit, a new course, from 10 a.m. to noon four consecutive Saturdays beginning January 16, 2016, in the Learning Center. Students will learn how to use creative and healing activities to write a self-assessment of their mind, body and spirit health; create a personalized plan for enhancing their well-being; learn to use meditation and guided imagery, watercolor crayons and expressive writing to create Soul Mail messages from within; and find inspiration and confidence for actively accessing their inner guidance and self-direction in creating a plan for the new year and beyond.

Sholle-Martin is the owner and founder of the Academy of Creative Healing Arts, in Fort Myers, and a life coach for Florida Self-Directed Care, a program of NAMI Collier, Inc. Cost: $95 journaling course, plus $30 for workbook. Location: 27750 Old U.S. 41 Rd. For more information or to register (required by Jan. 8, 2016), call 239-949-0749, email Info@ShangriLaSprings.com or visit ShangriLaSprings.com.

For Sholle-Martin, call 239-246-7494 or email Susan@ CreativeHealingArtist.com. See ad, page 53.

Correction

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n last month’s feature story, The Silver Bullets that Defy Aging, Purely You Spa was incorrectly referred to as Purely You. The correct address is 3066 Tamiami Trail, North, Suite 302, Naples. Photos displayed were of the certified organic spa’s bamboo fusion massage, rainforest warm stone massage and the four hands massage. natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Adventure Day and Concert at Lovers Key State Park

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overs Key State Park, on Fort Myers Beach, will host the annual Great Outdoor Adventure Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 5, at the kayak launch/picnic area. The Park will also host Songwriters at Sunset, a concert, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., December 8, in the large gazebo.

Adventure Day activities encourage participants to recreate responsibly while enjoying the park’s unique habitats and wildlife. Participants can enjoy food; touch tanks; local environmental organizations, outdoor equipment and healthy lifestyle vendors; children’s activities; ranger-led programs, including guided kayak tours, nature walks, bike tours, geocaching, fishing and paddleboard clinics; and scavenger hunts and raffle prizes.

The concert, co-presented by the Americana Community Music Association and Friends of Lovers Key, will feature original music performed by local musicians Boyd Baker, Bob Covington and Bob Williams. Attendees can purchase refreshments and seating will be available for the first 80 people to arrive.

Cost: $8 parking fee per vehicle up to eight people, $4 single occupant and $2 pedestrian or bicyclist. $10 kayak tours with rental. Location: 8700 Estero Blvd. For more information, call 239-463-4588 or visit FloridaStateParks.org/loverskey.

Olexa Launches Hypnotherapy Practice in Naples

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aniel Olexa, owner of SWFL Hypnotherapy, is opening a practice this month at 5051 Castello Drive, Suite 220, in Naples. He holds certifications as a hypnotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist and transpersonal hypnotherapist, with more than 25 years in problem-solving experiDaniel Olexa ence with Fortune 500 companies and other clients worldwide.

“I focus on finding solutions that propel my clients forward to manifesting their goals and living their dreams,” says Olexa, who has completed more than 500 hours of hypnotherapy training from the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy, in Tampa, the only school in Florida that offers a state-certified hypnotherapy program. “Through a variety of techniques, including parts therapy, regression and past-life regression, my intent is to empower my clients to be who they know they can be.”

For more information or an appointment, call 239-273-9390, email Daniel@swflHypotherapy.com or visit swflHypnotherapy. com. See ad, page 27. natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Night Lights Returns to Naples Botanical Garden

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housands of twinkling lights, glowing orbs and sparkling décor will illuminate one of Naples’ most popular outdoor venues this month and the start of the new year. Naples Botanical Garden’s annual Night Lights will take place from 6 to 9 p.m., December 16 to 23, 26 to 30 and January 2 and 3, 2016.

Each evening will include holiday musical performances, family activities, festive sweets and treats, and enchanting illumination scenes in the gardens. The Garden, including Fogg Café, will close from 5 to 6 p.m. to prepare for the event.

Admission for Garden members is $9 for adults and $5 for children 4 to 14. Nonmembers pay $17 for adults and $7 for children. Children 3 and under are free.

Location: 4820 Bayshore Dr. To purchase tickets in advance (required), visit NaplesGarden.org or go to ticketing windows during regular business hours. For more information, call 239-643-7275. See ad, page 33.

News to share?

Send your submissions to: NAeditor@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

Monarch Therapy is Now Monarch Wellness

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unique integrative center in Naples focusing on health and life fulfillment has been created with the transformation of Monarch Therapy into Monarch Wellness. New services, frequent-user memberships, discount packages and gift certificates are available.

Private life coaching and nutrition sessions are now offered at the center, along with specialized yoga classes that target anxiety relief, empowerment, recovery, strength and flexibility, overall well-being, qigong movement and relaxation.

Registration is open for eight-week groups starting in January 2016, including Women’s Empowerment, Men’s Group, Meditation Metamorphosis, Soul Sisters Middle School Girls Group and a weight-release program. Monthly workshops and support groups include Mindful Parents, Life Transitions Support Group and a Type-2 Diabetes Support Group. The center continues to offer Peaceful Mind class every Thursday and Inner Spa for the Mind every second Saturday, plus Laughter Club, Caterpillar Kids Yoga and Cooperative Kids Club.

The Monarch Wellness professional integrative team includes experienced licensed psychotherapists that partner with expert health and wellness practitioners to empower children and adults to reach their fullest potential through emotional and behavioral metamorphosis. The many therapeutic and preventative wellness services supported by neuroscience enable transformation through life with peace, balance and purpose.

Location: 843 Myrtle Terr. For more information, call 239-325-9210 or visit MonarchWellness.net. See ad, page 29.

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newsbriefs Keys to Spiritual Worlds Interactive Workshop in Fort Myers

Three-Day Body Cleanse and Retreat in Naples

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eys to Spiritual Worlds, a workshop where participants discover how to unlock the inner dimensions of dreams, past lives, soul travel and spiritual experiences that seem to defy explanation, will take place from 1 to 3 p.m., December 12, at the Eckankar Center of Southwest Florida, in Fort Myers. Organizers say the main message is that these secret heavens are real and can be explored here and now for greater wisdom, love and spiritual freedom.

The workshop, presented by the Florida Satsang Society, an Eckankar affiliate, will feature spiritual exercises, creative techniques, contemplation and open discussions of personal spiritual experiences in a supportive, nonjudgmental format. A complementary book with compact disc will be available for all attendees, and refreshments will follow.

or many, New Year’s resolutions of losing weight, eating healthier and reducing stress don’t last past the first month. Individuals seeking positive, lasting changes can attend a three-day body cleanse and lifestyle retreat conducted by the Livingstone Health Institute that will focus on improving mind, body and spirit, from January 29 to 31, 2016, in Naples.

Two of the leading causes of disease are poor diet and stress. Participants will learn about connections at the biological level between overall health and the perfect circulation of blood, and how to bring the body to the balanced state of homeostasis when it is working like a self-purifying machine and performing the duties of self-nourishment and self-cleansing using natural life elements like food, air, water, relaxation, nature, joy and trust.

The institute’s staff emphasizes how emotions manifest themselves in the way one feels physically—if the predominant emotions are stressful and painful, then disease is inevitable—and they strive to get to the cause of physical problems.

Location: 12995 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste. 155. For more information, call 239-482-4034 or visit Facebook.com/ eckankarinfortmyers or Meetup.com/eckankarinfortmyers.

See ad, page 29.

Costs vary, based on individual needs and interests. For more information, registration and event location, call 941-200-1028 or visit LivingstoneHealth.org or Facebook. com/3daybodycleanse. See ad, page 18.

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American Holistic Nurses Association Conference in Bonita

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egistration begins in January 2016 for the 36th annual American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) Conference, Interconnectedness: the Soul of Holistic Nursing, taking place from May 31 to June 5, 2016, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs. Featured speakers include Cassandra Vieten, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Institute Cassandra Vieten of Noetic Sciences and a scientist at the Mind-Body Medicine Research Group at California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute; and Registered Nurse Susan Bauer-Wu, Ph.D., the Tussi and John Kluge professor in contemplative end-of-life care and director of the Compassionate Care Initiative at the University of Virginia School of Nursing.

Susan Bauer

Attendees will learn about holistic nursing practice, education and research through nursing educational workshops, speakers, networking opportunities and exhibitors. Open to nurses, educators, administrators and other healthcare practitioners, the conference will offer 24 continuing nursing education units with additional pre-conference workshops available during the two days prior to the event.

Discounted rates available before Feb. 15. For more information or to register, visit ahna.org/conference. See ad, page 20.

Alternative Natural Healthcare Adds Multi-Lock System Laser Therapy

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r. Michelle Brown has added MultiLock System (MLS) Laser Therapy to her alternative natural healthcare practice in Bonita Springs. This drugfree, non-surgical, U.S. Food and Drug Administration-cleared, state-of-the-art therapy can treat many common condiMichelle Brown tions, including pain or tingling in the back, hips, knees, neck, shoulders or heels; pain from arthritis; muscle strains; tendinitis; numbness; carpal tunnel syndrome and more.

MLS Laser Therapy packages are available and include a $20 gift certificate to Fish Crazy Restaurant, in Naples, while supplies last.

Costs: $70 for one session, $360 for six, $600 for 12. Location: 16517 Vanderbilt Dr., Ste. 3. For more information or an appointment, call 239-947-6234, email drmsbjdap@ gmail.com or visit AlternativeNaturalHealthcare.net. Also visit FishCrazyRestaurant.com. See ad, page 20. natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Mindfulness Meditation Group Meetings in Bonita

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Mindfulness Meditation Practice Group will begin weekly meetings from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning January 5, 2016, at the Integrative Mindfulness studio, Madeline Ebelini in Bonita Springs.

These 30-minute, lightly guided practice sessions, led by Madeline Ebelini, an experienced meditation practitioner and founder of Integrative Mindfulness, will culminate with a taste of mindfulness poetry, followed by 15 minutes for Q&A and discussion.

“People with an established or new meditation practice are often seeking opportunities to practice with others,” says Ebelini, who is qualified through the University of California at San Diego’s Center for Mindfulness as a teacher of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program. “This mindfulness meditation practice group is a way to connect with other practitioners, to experience the shared energy of a group practice and to support your home practice.” Meditation cushions and benches will be provided for students that do not bring their own.

Donations accepted. Location: 3372 Woods Edge Cir., Ste. 102. For more information, call 239-590-9485, email Madeline@IntegrativeMindfulness.net or visit IntegrativeMindfulness.net. See ad, page 45.

T he excellence of a gift lies in its appropriateness rather than in its value. ~Charles Dudley Warner

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healthbriefs

People Double Up on Calories After the Holidays

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espite the popularity of New Year’s resolutions, scientists have found that post-holiday food shopping decisions don’t necessarily reflect intentions to eat healthier or lose weight.

Scientists from Cornell University tracked resolutions and after-holiday food shopping habits of 207 families. They classified about 20,000 food products as either “healthy” or “lesshealthy”. Calories and dollars spent were also tracked.

Analysis of 37 weeks of activity that included the extended winter holiday period and into the new year found that additional food expenditures and calories began about a week prior to Thanksgiving and peaked during Christmas celebrations. Compared to the rest of the year, this increased shopping averaged just over $16 more a week, about $4 of which was spent on healthy foods.

Food expenditures then continued to increase after the holidays to about $25 more a week compared to the average—showing a 24 percent increase. However, $13 of this was spent on healthier foods.

Calorie levels also increased. “Total weekly per-serving calories increased by 440 during the holiday period relative to the baseline period, and nearly 91 percent of this increase was due to additional purchases of the more calorie-dense foods,” the researchers reported.

“Even more intriguing is that contrary to well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions, additional weekly per-serving calories purchased increased to 890 in the post-holiday period relative to the baseline, more than doubling the 440 calorie increase evident in the holiday season,” the researchers observed. Of this, 63 percent of the additional calories were from high-calorie foods.

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healthbriefs

Potatoes Don’t Pack on Pounds

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esearch from scientists at the University of California, Davis has mashed the notion that potatoes cause weight gain. The researchers tested 90 overweight people divided into three groups, with all of them eating five to seven servings of potatoes each week over a three-month period.

Two groups reduced their calorie intake by 500 calories per day, with one group eating low-glycemic index (GI) foods and the other group eating high-GI foods. The third group had no calorie restrictions. Despite the increased potato consumption during the study period, all three groups showed slight weight loss and reduced body mass index.

The researchers concluded, “Potato intake did not cause weight gain.”

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Digital ‘Blue Light’ Reading Disrupts Sleep Rhythms

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ecent findings from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, has determined that reading from a light-emitting tablet or computer before bedtime will disturb sleep and may change the circadian rhythms that govern the body’s clock.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, tested 12 people for two weeks.

On five nights during one week, the subjects read ebooks on an iPad for four hours before bedtime. Another week, they read from printed books for the same duration.

During the five days of iPad reading, the participants fell asleep later and spent less time in rapid eye movement (REM)-stage sleep. The lightemitting tablet altered the circadian rhythm, changing the body’s natural sleeping pattern. The researchers also tested other blue-light emitting devices, including laptops, tablets, other eReaders, cell phones and LED monitors.

“We found the body’s natural circadian rhythms were interrupted by the short-wavelength enriched light, otherwise known as blue light, from these electronic devices,” says neuroscientist Anne-Marie Chang, Ph.D., one of the study authors.

Dr. Charles Czeisler, Ph.D., a leading sleep researcher, remarks, “In the past 50 years, there has been a decline in average sleep duration and quality. Since more people are choosing electronic devices for reading, communication and entertainment, particularly children and adolescents who already experience significant sleep loss, epidemiological research evaluating the long-term consequences of these devices on health and safety is urgently needed.”

Spirituality is Beneficial for Cancer Patients

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ccording to a new review of research published in the journal Cancer, a strong religious or spiritual belief system may improve a cancer patient’s prognosis physically, emotionally and mentally.

Researchers from Florida’s H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute and North Carolina’s Wake Forest School of Medicine reviewed clinical studies that included more than 44,000 cancer patients. The first review focused on physical symptoms and found that patients with stronger religious and spiritual beliefs reported fewer cancer symptoms and better physical health. They also showed enhanced capabilities in managing their daily lives.

“These relationships were particularly strong in patients that experienced greater emotional aspects of religion and spirituality, including a sense of meaning and purpose in life, as well as a connection to a source larger than oneself,” states Heather Jim, lead author of the first review.

The second review focused on mental health and found reductions in anxiety, depression and distress among those with greater spirituality. Lead author Dr. John Salsman comments, “Also, greater levels of spiritual distress and a sense of disconnectedness from God or a religious community were associated with greater psychological distress or poorer emotional well-being.”

In the third review, the researchers found that patients with a stronger spiritual well-being reported better social health, as well. natural awakenings

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therapybriefs Nutrition Response Testing A Personalized Natural Health Improvement Program

by Gary Gendron utrition Response Testing precisely predicts with certainty what is needed by the body to move to the next stage of improved health. A personalized natural health improvement program, which uses Designed Clinical Nutrition (DCN) and the exact nutrients necessary to supplement the diet, follows an assessment of the body’s health status. These two components can bring about balance and help the body regain the ability to self-correct and heal.

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Analysis and Designed Clinical Nutrition Testing neurological reflexes and specific acupuncture points on the body’s surface provides an energy assessment of how well the organs and systems of the body are functioning. Each NRT reflex corresponds to a specific organ, system or function. The assessment helps to determine the effect that energy or the lack of energy is having on overall health.

Any existing barriers to healing, such as environmental toxins, immune challenges or major food sensitivities, are detected and possible remedies are recommended, based on decades of clinical experience. Correct nutritional supplements and doses are identified, along with specific dietary guidelines to create an individual’s ideal program.

DCN utilizes specific dietary recommendations and whole food concentrates in a tablet, capsule or powder form. Prepared using a unique manufacturing process that preserves all of the active enzymes and vital components that work as nature intended, these are either nutrients missing from the diet or those that the body is not assimilating properly. These real food supplements have been designed to match the needs of the body as determined by the positive response shown when tested against the active NRT reflexes.

Monitoring The NRT system for monitoring the body at each visit aids in the identification of exact bodily needs and how well they are being met. Depending on an individual’s particular situation, specific changes in diet and eating habits, as well as in daily routines, may be required in order to bring about the best possible results.

Dr. Gary Gendron, DC, founder of Nutrition Specialists of Florida, 28315 S. Tamiami Tr., Ste. 101, in Bonita Springs, is an advanced NRT practitioner. For more information, call 239947-1177 or visit DoctorGendron.com. See ad, page 2.

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Oncology Massage

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ultiple published studies conducted by institutes such as MemorialSloan-Kettering Cancer Center, in New York City, now link gentle, non-invasive massage for people affected by cancer with significant reductions in the relief of pain, peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, depression and anxiety.

The frequency of such reports validates that what massage therapists and their clients affected by cancer have been observing for years is increasing. Contrasting 1900 to 1990, when there were only an average of 31 citations per year in any scientific literature referring to cancer and massage or oncology and massage, to the 1,370 citations reported per year between 2006 and 2008, it is obvious that more therapists and patients are realizing that massage therapy is far more than a relaxing, pleasurable experience.

Specifically, oncology massage is the modification of existing massage therapy techniques in order to safely work with complications of cancer and cancer treatment. Essential aspects of an oncology massage therapist’s skill set are an informed understanding of the disease itself and the many ways it can affect the human body; the side effects of cancer treatments, such as medications, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation; and the ability to modify massage techniques in order to adapt for these side effects, as well as for the disease.

Individuals should expect to discuss their cancer treatment history, tumor site or metastasis, compromised blood cell counts, lymph node involvement, blood clots or blood clot risk, medications, fragile or unstable tissue, vital organ involvement, changes in sensation or others pertinent issues with a properly trained oncology massage therapist.

Local Resources: Christina M. Mitchell, 822 Anchor Rode Dr., Naples, 239293-0960. IamChristinaMitchell@gmail. com, BestBodyMassage.com (see ad, page 73). Kathy Hall, Hidden Wholeness, 407-538-3044, Kathy@HiddenWholeness.com, HiddenWholeness. com (see ad, page 73). natural awakenings

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

Hear Ye!

Dutch Court Upholds Climate Action as a Human Right Perhaps establishing a new global precedent for a state’s obligation to its citizens in the face of a growing climate crisis, a Dutch court has ruled that the government has a legal duty to reduce carbon emissions by 25 percent by 2020. The decision came in response to a 2013 lawsuit launched by the Amsterdam-based environmental nonprofit Urgenda Foundation and 600 Dutch citizens that argued the government was violating international human rights law by failing to take sufficient measures to combat rising greenhouse gas emissions.

A statement from the court reads, “The state must do more to avert the imminent danger caused by climate change, also in view of its duty to provide care to protect and improve the living environment.”

In the United States, the youth-led movement Our Children’s Trust (OurChildrens Trust.org) is suing state governments and what they dub “the ruling generation” as accountable for climate inaction. As 350.org co-founder and Communications Director Jamie Henn noted after the ruling, “If the Netherlands sets a precedent, it’s a whole new ball game.” Other countries are weighing the situation, as well.

Source: BBC

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• Mercury Free & Mercury Safe • Holistic Approach • CEREC One Visit Crowns • Gentle laser treatment of gum problems and cavities • Ozone for Cavities

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1550 Matthew Drive | Fort Myers, Florida 33907 239-936-5442 | www.FortMyersLaserDentist.com

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Uncommon Devotion Religion in America Shows Resilience

On any given Sabbath, four of 10 Americans travel to a place of worship, a number that hasn’t fluctuated dramatically in the past half-century. Gallup polls report that more than 81 percent say they identify with a specific religion or denomination; 78 percent say it’s an important part of their lives; and 57 percent believe that religion is able to solve today’s problems.

While recent attendance may be off, Americans are no less likely to attend services today than they were in the 1940s and early ’50s, just prior to the ultra-religious following decade. The reason, says Gallup’s Frank Newport, is that U.S. religious worship is cyclical.

Today’s practicing religious communities “tend to consist of the seriously committed, not just those swept along by obligation,” reports Christian Smith, director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame and coprincipal investigator of the National Study of Youth and Religion.

Those that worship regularly are more likely to be older, female and Southern; they also are better educated and stronger financially than those that don’t, according to Newport. At the same time, Mitchell Marcus, a University of Pennsylvania professor, characterizes his Ph.D. students as religiously curious, often devout and eager to talk about their beliefs.

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

Interactive Government

White House Responds to Online Petitions

President Obama has made it a priority to open a direct channel for people to be heard via online petitions. Jason Goldman, chief digital officer at the White House, says that his staff has responded to dozens of requests to take action on a variety of issues in recent months. “We want to make sure those responses aren’t the final page, but rather the start of an ongoing conversation,” he says.

Change.org has chosen to integrate with the We the People platform, meaning the future signatures of its 100 million users will count toward the threshold of 100,000 for getting an official response from the administration.

“The process of hearing from us about your petition is going to look a little different,” says Goldman. “We’ve assembled a team of people responsible for taking your questions and requests and bringing them to the right people, whether within the White House or in an agency within the administration that may be in a position to say something about your request.”

Visit Petitions.WhiteHouse.gov.

please recycle

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globalbriefs Greener Globe

World Powers Vow Cuts in Emissions This year’s G7 Summit of the U.S., UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan, plus the European Union, has agreed in principle that the global economy must be completely fossil fuel-free by the end of this century to curb destructive climate change. To that end, the nations agreed to work toward cutting emissions between 40 and 70 percent by 2050.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel also announced that the G7 countries would raise $100 billion from public and private sources by 2020 to help poorer nations adapt. Environmental groups such as Greenpeace praised the action. In a statement, the Sierra Club called it “the first time that the leaders of the world have made clear with one voice that we must get off fossil fuels completely.”

Two hundred countries are expected to commit in writing to specific plans for greening their economies at the United Nations Climate Change Conference this month in Paris.

Source: TheHill.com

Good Tithings

Lend a Hand to Causes While You Shop This holiday season, every gift purchased through GoodSearch.com can earn a donation of up to 30 percent of its value for a favorite charity, along with money-saving coupons for the customer.

More than 2,500 national retailers are participating in the program, including Apple, Target, Toys “R” Us, Ralph Lauren, Macy’s, 1-800-Flowers, PetSmart and Expedia.

Instead of limiting qualifying purchases to a particular product and charity, the campaign includes nearly every product in the store. The donation goes to the charity or school of the shopper’s choice with the cooperation of the organization’s GoodShop, which has raised more than $9 million for charities ranging from The American Red Cross and ASPCA to local homeless shelters and schools.

Each Internet search through the website also earns the charity about a penny.

With GoodDining, meals at more than 10,000 restaurants earn donations, with more than 100,000 charities and schools benefitting. UNICEF has used money from GoodSearch and GoodShop to provide clean drinking water to more than 200,000 children.

Post-It Progress

3M Requires Paper Sources to Meet Sustainable Standards A new sustainability policy by the 3M Corporation, maker of Post-it notes, has drawn support for its goal of making a minimal impact on forests, wildlife and human rights. 3M paper-based products and packaging require pulp and paper from sources around the world. Working in collaboration with ForestEthics and Greenpeace, the company launched a comprehensive review of all of its pulp and paper procurement expectations to ensure the materials are produced from sustainably logged timber.

3M will now hold paper and pulp suppliers accountable to one of the highest standards in the industry for environmental protection and respect of human rights, including tracing origins and obtaining consent of indigenous peoples and local communities before logging operations occur. The company intends to publish semiannual updates of its progress online.

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Fungus Among Us

Mushrooms Offer Pesticide-Free Insect Control Paul Stamets, one of the world’s leading mycologists, invented a fungus (mushroom)-based pesticide in 2006. An industry executive states, “This patent represents the most disruptive technology we have ever witnessed.” This “smart” pesticide provides a safe and nearly permanent solution for controlling more than 200,000 species of insects.

Entomopathogenic (insect-destroying) fungi are altered so they don’t produce spores. This actually attracts the insects, which then eat them and turn into fungi from the inside-out. The invention has the potential to revolutionize the way humans grow crops.

Source: Earth. We Are One. View the patent at Tinyurl.com/FungusPesticidePatent.

Sentient Beings

New Zealand Enacts Bill Recognizing Animal Intelligence The New Zealand Animal Welfare Amendment Bill that passed into law this year states that animals, like humans, are sentient beings.

Dr. Virginia Williams, chair of the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee, says this acknowledges, “Animals can experience both positive and negative emotions, including pain and distress.”

The bill thus bans the use of animals for testing cosmetics.

Williams says the legal recognition of animal sentience provides a stronger underpinning of the requirements of the existing Animal Welfare Act. The bill also provides for penalties to enable low-tomedium-level offenders to be punished more effectively and gives animal welfare inspectors the power to issue compliance notices, among other measures.

Find a link to the legislation at Tinyurl. com/NewZealandSentienceBill. natural awakenings

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ecotip Shipping News

Early Bird Gift Shipping Saves Stress, Money and Resources Last-minute online shopping can be costly in both dollars and pollution. Choosing next-day delivery puts purchased products on a plane that burns far more carbonproducing fossil fuel than ground transportation. But there’s a better way, and how we package gifts for shipping counts.

Order and ship early. Building in more lead time affords less costly shipping options. Eco-wise, if the shipper has some freedom in scheduling deliveries, it can choose to hold up a delivery truck until it’s full, rather than sending one out half-empty. Also, if a package doesn’t have to reach its destination by a particular day or time, the company can choose the most efficient local delivery routing.

A recent University of Washington study found that a community using grocery delivery services slashed carbon emissions when compared to individuals driving to the supermarket. Plus, they achieved their biggest gains—80 to 90 percent lower emissions—when they could plan deliveries around customer locations, rather than precise delivery windows, thus minimizing driving distance and time on the road.

Seek out available boxes. Many grocery and beverage stores don’t immediately break down incoming cardboard shipping boxes. Ask a store attendant if they have any available. Reusing saved paper bags from checkout (for those that don’t bring reusable bags) can serve to cushion gift-wrapped boxes. GreenAmerica.org suggests repurposing gently-used wrapping paper or old fabrics, newspapers, magazines or calendars for a creative look. Return any foam peanuts in received packages to a pack-n-ship shop for reuse.

Know the options. While U.S. Postal Service (usps. com) Priority Mail offers flat rates to any state regardless of weight (up to 70 pounds), package tracking and other yearround features, the cost of using other carriers varies by destination zip code, package size and weight. Verify price and timing options, making sure packages arrive in good time to be under the Christmas tree before December 25.

T he greatest healing therapy is friendship and love.

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actionalerts December Deadline for Florida Solar Ballot Initiative

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total of 683,149 certified signatures are required to put the Florida constitutional amendment, Limits or Prevents Barriers to Local Solar Electricity Supply, on the November 2016 ballot. Petitions must be signed and submitted by the end of December to insure that this happens.

Floridians for Solar Choice, a grassroots citizens’ effort to allow more homes and businesses to generate electricity by harnessing the power of the sun, is promoting this constitutional amendment that would give Florida’s families and businesses the right to choose solar power. Volunteers from organizations including the League of Women Voters of Florida, Florida Retail Federation, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Christian Coalition of America and Florida Tea Party are supporting the signing of petitions and collecting signatures at family and faith gatherings, concerts and farmers’ markets.

Although sunshine is abundant, currently, Florida is one of only five states in the nation that prohibit citizens from buying electricity from companies that will put solar panels on personal residences or business. This prohibition limits customer choice and blocks the growth of this abundant, clean, homegrown energy source.

Past legislative efforts to overcome barriers to solar choice have been blocked by large, monopolistic utility companies such as Florida Power and Light (FPL) and Duke Energy. These power companies do not want to lose their exclusive hold on Florida’s electric customers or their income.

Floridians for Solar Choice supporters believe that Florida citizens should have the right and freedom to choose solar power generated electricity if and from whom they want. “Don’t be fooled by the confusing language of Consumers for Smart Solar, an organization that put forth its own solar power constitutional amendment. On the surface it appears pro-solar, but instead will only maintain the status quo. The group, mostly backed by the state’s utility companies, is using the oldest political ploy in the book by trying to confuse people,” says Susan Glickman, Florida director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization behind Floridians for Solar Choice.

To sign the petition, get more information, or print copies to circulate, visit FLSolarChoice.org.

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actionalerts Southwest Florida Clean Water Prepared to Rally on December 8

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ohn G. Heim and other Southwest Florida Clean Water activists that rallied together on November 8 after demonstrating non-stop for 60 days on the Fort Myers Beach Bridge are preparing to demonstrate again, if necessary, on the Sanibel Bridge. “While our demonstrations will continue to be about taking a stand for clean water as a basic human right, we are now focused on getting the five mayors from the newly formed Southwest Florida Mayor’s Coalition on Water Quality to sit down with us and the general public at a round table forum. We want to debate the C-43 water storage facility, a giant swimming pool to hold water and release it without any cleansing device or filtration measures, as compared to Plan 6, which sends the water south naturally,” says Heim.

Recently, the state warned individuals against entering the water to wade or swim at Blind Pass Beach, in Sanibel, due to high bacteria levels. The elevated levels of bacteria in the water are associated with pollution such as storm water runoff, sewage and animal waste. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation has reported red tide along the Southwest Florida coast from the Tampa Bay area to the northern border of Lee County, as well.

Heim notes that the overarching goal of the activists is to clean up Lake Okeechobee, restore what was once the natural flow of water through the Everglades and stop the dirty water discharges into the Caloosahatchee River that are impacting our area. “We need to stop the discharges from the lake to the St. Lucie River, Indian River lagoon and Caloosahatchee estuaries and move the water south,” says Heim, who recommends reading materials for anyone looking to join the movement. “Our bible is The Swamp: The Everglades, Florida, and the Politics of Paradise, by Michael Grunwald. After someone reads it, they get what our movement is about.”

A major rally is also planned during the New Year’s holiday. “On December 8, we are prepared to show our city leaders that we aren’t going away until they agree to educate the public about the dangers of streptococcus B, a dangerous, flesh-eating bacteria in the water,” says Heim.

For more information, call 407-460-6452. Visit Facebook.com/ groups/SWFLcleanwater or email LowTideFilms@gmail.com.

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communityspotlight

BKS Yoga Helping Individuals To Feel Good From The Outside In

by Linda Sechrist

N

o matter how much Barbara of Be Delicious Now: Ultimate King’s husband encouraged Fashion Secrets, King once gave her to open up a fitness fashion advice to Sandra Bullock, studio or retail store, she still felt Sylvester Stallone and Mary Tyler resistant to the idea. What this outMoore. “The work in the entertaingoing, high-energy, freedom-loving ment industry was more about how Sagittarian really preferred was to good people looked on the outside. continue focusing on building the I was interested in diving deeper to business in fashion and style that help people feel good inside and she started in New York City and out,” advises King, who not only Los Angeles. Today, the owner of consults one-on-one with clients, BKS Yoga, in Naples, which inbut also offers her fashion tips at Barbara King cludes a small retail space for onecountry club luncheons and at of-a-kind boutique clothing and Hodges University. jewelry, has the best of both worlds. She not only teaches

“Hodges likes that I can help their students learn how power yoga, but also uses her knowledge and expertise in to dress suitably for business to get a job or a promotion. I fashion, fitness and color to style women from the inside-out teach them that they don’t have to spend a million dollars and provide them with a practice that can strengthen their to look good. Wardrobe overhauls are done from a realistic mind-body connection, as well as shape a figure that showperspective that takes someone’s lifestyle and environment cases the best of their personal style. into consideration. With Skype and FaceTime, I’m able to

“In October 2014, unbeknownst to me, my husband help people all over the U.S.,” explains King, who refers took a drive around town to look at real estate. He came clients out locally for hair and makeup makeovers. “We shop home and announced that he had found a freestanding together with their budget in mind,” she says. building that was a good location for a yoga studio. He

King studied yoga with Baron Baptiste and teaches made the appointment for us to see inside of it the next day one class a week at her studio. “I fully understand the and the rest was the stuff of magic. He found our manager, transformational power of yoga and breath work, which is hired her and we renovated the space that was once an why we have a yoga class for everyone and make time for adult daycare center to make it a suitable and fashionable workshops. The yoga and sound therapy classes—kundalyoga studio. ini yoga with gong bath, re That’s when the synchronicstorative yoga and crystal bowl ity began. “Other than a friend I sound bath—are as popular asked, all of our 19 instructors, with students as the magic bus who teach various styles such ride that uses breath, mantra as power vinyasa, restorative, and light kundalini-style moveasana flow, chair, gentle flow and ments to create a mind-space meditation, gentle release, hatha exploration and expansion. It all levels, kundalini as taught by makes me feel good to know Yogi Bhajan and candlelight flow, that we offer all the tools for in addition to kid’s yoga and transformation, as well as a doga, showed up on our doorsupportive yoga community,” step eager to teach here. Nearly notes King. a year later, I’m still waking up To schedule an appointment and saying to myself, ‘Seriously, with King for a fashion consult, Barbara, you have a yoga studio.’ call 239-691-2416 or visit BarNothing has ever been this easy baraKingStyling.com. BKS Yoga or flowed this smoothly,” quips is located at 2900 Tamiami Tr. the Naples resident of 11 years.

N., Naples, 239-213-9276. See

A graduate of the Fashion Inad, page 40. stitute of Technology and author

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SWEETLY VEGAN No-Bake Holiday Treats Worth Celebrating

by Judith Fertig

“

Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right. ~Oprah Winfrey

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isions of sugar plums” have been part of holiday mindsets since the advent of Clement Moore’s classic 19th-century poem commonly known as ’Twas the Night Before Christmas.

We love to give and receive special treats and our tastes are evolving. Instead of yesteryear’s sugary bonbons loaded with calories that we’ve come to regret, today’s preferred confections focus more on naturally sweet dried fruits, bestquality chocolate, healthful coconut and crunchy nuts. Vegan, gluten-free delicacies from chefs and culinary experts the world over help us celebrate the season in a deliciously healthy way, including those we highlight this month.

“Christmas isn’t Christmas without a traditional pudding,” says Chef Teresa Cutter, author of Purely Delicious. Cutter is founder and director of The Healthy Chef company, in Sydney, Australia, which creates functional foods for taste and optimal health. Her no-bake desserts such as miniature Christmas puddings and carrot cake take only minutes to make.

Emily Holmes, a Queensland, Australia, wellness coach who blogs at Conscious-Foodie.com, says her favorite is Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes. She serves them with a pot of peppermint tea.

Houston-based Joshua Weissman is the author of The Slim Palate Paleo Cookbook and blogs at SlimPalate. com. He shares his philosophy on holiday treats: “My first thought is that I don’t want to feel guilty after eating it.

My second is that I still want it to taste and look good.” His Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles fit the festive bill.

In New York City, noted vegan cookbook author and Pastry Chef Fran Costigan is an expert in all things chocolate, including her Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles. “When you make something really delicious with real ingredients, your mouth knows it, your brain knows it, your body knows it. You feel satisfied,” she says.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFood AndLifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible.

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Photo by Stephen Blancett

consciouseating

No-Bake Festive Vegan Desserts

Combine walnuts, flaxseed, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, orange zest and sea salt into a food processor and run it until mixed and finely chopped. Add dates and apricots. Process again until thoroughly mixed.

Spoon a little white chocolate over the tops of the puddings if desired and garnish with goji berries, fresh cherries or another fanciful topper.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Serve puddings with chilled mango coconut custard.

Yields: 6 to 8 small puddings

Combine all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Serve chilled with the puddings.

8 oz fresh pitted dates—approximately 10 to 15 dates, depending on their size Zest from 1 orange 9 oz dried apricots, chopped 11/2 cups almond meal/ground almonds 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 /4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 /4 tsp ground ginger 1 to 2 Tbsp orange juice 3 oz white chocolate, melted, for decoration (optional) Combine dates, orange zest, apricots, vanilla, ground almonds, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in a food processor.

Process until mixture is combined and looks like fine crumbs.

Spoon the mixture into a large bowl.

Add the orange juice, and then mix again. Pudding mix should come together when lightly hand-squeezed.

Divide into 6 small puddings. Line the base of 6 small decorative molds with plastic wrap and firmly press the puddings into them.

Once firmly packed in the mold, invert the pudding and remove the plastic wrap.

Melt white chocolate in a small bowl set over a simmering pot of water.

Spoon into a bowl. Add and kneed oats through the raw carrot cake mixture.

Press cake firmly into a 6-inch round baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Mango Coconut Custard 1 mango, chopped 1 /2 cup coconut milk Juice from 1/2 orange

Teresa Cutter’s Healthy Christmas Puddings

Add grated raw carrot and vanilla and then process again until combined. The mix should now form a nice dough.

Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing at least 2 hours for the cake to rest.

It will keep in the refrigerator for about a week.

Enjoy as is or garnish with macadamia nut cream, a drizzle of honey and walnuts.

Note: Other raw nuts can substitute for walnuts—try pecans, almonds or macadamia nuts.

Macadamia Nut Cream Combine 1 cup of raw cashew nuts or macadamia nuts with ½ cup of orange juice or coconut water and a little vanilla. Blend in a high-speed blender like a Vitamix until smooth and creamy.

Teresa Cutter’s No-Bake Carrot Cake Yields: 16 servings 21/2 cups (91/2 oz) shelled walnuts 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed or whole chia seeds 1 /2 cup (2 oz) rolled oats (or gluten-free almond meal) 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 /4 tsp ground ginger 1 /4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 /4 tsp sea salt 1 cup (61/2 oz) of 12 large fresh dates, pitted 1 /2 cup (3 oz) dried chopped apricots or pineapple (sulfur-free) 2 large raw carrots, grated Zest from 1 orange 2 tsp vanilla bean paste

Emily Holmes’ Chocolate Cherry Mini-Cupcakes Yields: 2 dozen mini-cupcakes Cake 1 cup raw, shelled, skinned nuts (such as almonds) 1 /3 cup cacao powder 4 fresh dates, pitted Filling 2 cup shredded coconut 1 cup dried cherries 6 fresh dates, pitted 1 /4 cup coconut cream 1 /4 tsp vanilla powder Pinch of sea salt

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Filling 1 /4 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling) 1 /4 cup almond butter 1 /4 cup vegan cream cheese 1 /4 tsp cinnamon 1 1 /4- /2 tsp nutmeg 1 /2 tsp fresh grated ginger 1 Tbsp coconut flour 2 packets stevia (like Sweetleaf packets)

Topping 31/2 oz melted dark chocolate Process nuts and cacao powder in a food processor until the nuts are finely ground and the mixture is fully combined. Slowly add the dates until the mixture sticks together.

Press the mixture into the bottom parts of a 24-cup mini muffin pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Process filling ingredients in a food processor until well combined. Spoon the filling onto the cupcake base in the muffin cups and then top with melted dark chocolate.

Place into the refrigerator to set, where it also stores well until served.

Coating (vanilla bean white chocolate) 2 oz food grade (not for skin care) cacao butter broken up into small pieces for melting 1 1 /4- /2 vanilla bean pod, cut in half lengthwise to scrape out the interior, or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 20 drops stevia (like Sweetleaf Steviaclear drops) In a medium-sized bowl, combine everything for the filling, including pumpkin purée, almond butter, cream cheese, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, coconut flour and stevia. Mix thoroughly until smoothly incorporated and no cream cheese chunks are left.

Chill by refrigerating the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes or freezing it for 2 to 5 minutes.

Roll chilled filling mixture into mediumto-small-sized balls a little less than an inch in diameter and place them on a small baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Place balls back into the refrigerator for 10 minutes or the freezer for 5 minutes so the balls harden enough to allow dipping.

Heat a double boiler or small pot that fits into a medium pot of gently boiling water over medium-to-low heat.

Joshua Weissman’s Almond Butter Pumpkin Pie Truffles

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Scrape out the vanilla bean pod, conserving vanilla beans for adding once the cacao butter is melted.

Yields: About 12 to 16 (1½-inch) truffles

Place cacao butter in the top of a double boiler and melt and add stevia.

Then add vanilla beans and mix well.

Warm winter spices mix with fragrant pumpkin and almond butter to make seasonal truffles hand dipped in fresh vanilla bean-infused white chocolate.

Turn the heat to low to keep warm and melted. Pull out the hardened filling shaped into balls and one at a time drop them into the white chocolate

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mixture and roll them around until they’re fully covered with mixture using fingers or a small spoon.

Spoon into a small shallow container and refrigerate uncovered about 2 hours until the ganache is firm. The ganache can be covered and refrigerated at this point for up to 1 week.

Carefully spoon out each truffle using a spoon, gently tapping the spoon on the inside of the saucepan to slough off excess cacao butter that may pool on it.

Take special care not to drop the truffle.

Shape Truffle Centers Remove the ganache from the refrigerator. Use one spoon to scoop out 1-inch pieces of ganache and another to push it off the spoon into the container. When half the ganache has been used, roll into logs about 1-inch long, washing and drying hands as needed. (If at any time the ganache becomes too soft to shape, refrigerate until cold before proceeding.)

Gently place each treat back onto the tray. Repeat the whole process until all the coated balls are on the tray.

Fran Costigan’s Chocolate Orange Sesame Truffles Yields: 20 to 24 (1-inch) truffles This creamy chocolate truffle has a slightly chewy texture with a coating for color and crunch. Raw tahini is sweeter than when its roasted and either kind is good.

Truffle Ganache 4 oz dark fair trade chocolate (70 to 72 percent), finely chopped Finely minced zest of half a medium orange 3 Tbsp orange juice 1 /4 cup agave syrup 1 Tbsp raw or roasted tahini, stirred 11/2 Tbsp white sesame seeds, lightly toasted 11/2 Tbsp black sesame seeds, lightly toasted

Photo by Steve Legato

Let them cool at room temperature and serve immediately or place them in the refrigerator to harden and serve later. Chilled, truffles will keep for 3 to 5 days.

Simmer the mixture for 30 seconds until it’s shiny and smooth. Remove from heat and wait about 30 seconds until it’s no longer steaming and then pour it over the chocolate.

Cover the bowl with a plate. Wait 1 minute and then stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Note: The ganache will not be perfectly smooth.

Cool to room temperature, stirring a few times using a silicone spatula.

Cover and refrigerate the truffle centers 15 to 25 minutes to set, before final shaping and finishing with the sesame seed coating.

Truffle Coating Mix the sesame seeds in a small bowl.

Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons on the bottom of a shallow container.

Put a few logs at a time into the bowl of sesame seeds and roll until lightly coated. Pinch the ends to form the oval quenelle (football) shape.

Place the finished truffles in the refrigerator to set for 35 to 45 minutes.

Adapted from Vegan Chocolate, by Fran Costigan, used with permission.

Place the chocolate in a small heatproof bowl.

Mix the orange zest and juice and agave in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat just to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and add the tahini, whisking vigorously. The mixture will thicken immediately. Don’t be concerned if it looks broken or curdled; it’ll smooth out with whisking. natural awakenings

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Caprese salad (left), bruschetta pizza (middle) and beet and feta salad from Pizza Fusion

f ‘Tis the Season

for Effortless Entertaining

by Linda Sechrist

T

he holiday season, from beginning to end, gives us a total of 37 days for celebrating with family and friends. Intended for leisurely fun and festivities, this is the time for surrendering the notion of a perfect holiday and any urges to prepare complicated recipes to dazzle guests with feats of culinary wizardry. Instead, embrace the stress-free entertaining concept of playing host or hostess to a headache-less soiree that wows guests.

With the a wide array of scrumptious healthy appetizers, mouthwatering entrees, delicious party finger foods and sweet, gluten-free desserts available for

call-ahead ordering at so many of our area’s healthy food restaurants and markets, it’s practically effortless. Dial the number, place the order, pick it up and present it with some holiday pizzazz.

Bon appétit.

Have fun decorating the table, decide on a selection of festive music to set the tone and create a little ambiance with a few scented candles.

Voila! Harry Potter holiday-style magic without the wand.

Whatever we’re in the mood for, we can find in healthy options and fresh food that’s good for our guests and ourselves.

Ada’s Natural Foods Market & Garden Café 7070 College Pkwy., Ft Myers 239-939-9600 AdasMarket.com

Enjoy an array of wraps and sandwiches; gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian fare and freshly made soups and bakery items with gluten-free options in pies, cookies, muffins, cakes and breads.

Full-service organic juice and smoothie bar. See ad, page 55.

Chef Brooke’s Natural Café

1850 Boy Scout Dr., Ste. A106, Ft. Myers 239-332-2433 ChefBrookeOnline.com Get some love in your tummy with organic, homemade foods that tempt with simple combinations and complex flavors. Enjoy gluten-free options, superfoods, smoothies and a juice bar.

Catering and custom cakes available.

Cider Press Café

1201 Piper Blvd., Ste. 26, Naples 239-631-2500 Local and farm-to-table fresh, Floridainspired, plant-based modernist cuisine.

Enjoy fine dining in a casual setting, as well as a six-day subscription for rotated boxed meals that include a main dish and a soup or salad.

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Earth Origins Market

850 Neapolitan Way, Naples 239-434-7221 EarthOriginsMarket.com Explore a variety of freshly prepared, allnatural hot and cold entrees, salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, juices and smoothies from the deli and salad and juice bar. See ad, page 30.

Epiphany Gluten Free Bakery

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Ste. 406, Naples • 239-398-4428 Facebook.com/EpiphanyGlutenFreeBakery Ruth@EpiphanyGlutenFree.com Delicious paleo bread and rolls in many flavors, sandwich bread and rolls, gingerbread cookies, coconut chocolate chip cookies, paleo chocolate chip cookies, bodacious brownies and paleo raspberry swirl brownies.

Food & Thought 100% Organic Farm Market and Café 2132 Tamami Tr. N., Naples 239-213-2222 FoodAndThought.com

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Fresh produce delivered daily for prepared-from-scratch homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner. Smoothies and juices are made with no ice, water or sugar—only 100 percent organic fruit and veggies. See ad, page 10.

Kitchen 41

2500 Tamiami Tr. N., Ste. 111, Naples 239-263-8009 Choose from appetizers such as the wild caught sea scallops served over pureed lima beans or plenty of healthy entrees or panini sandwiches served with freshly basked homemade focaccia bread. Soups, salads, pasta and individualized sauces, paired with proteins uniquely cooked under vacuum. See ad, page 59.

Loving Hut

975 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples 239-254-9490 LovingHut.us/naples_01 Experience gourmet, plant-based American, Chinese, Indian, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine made with vegan ingredients. Appetizers, salads, soups, noodles and rice dishes are all prepared fresh daily. See ad, page 20.

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Photos compliments of Kitchen 41

Skinny Pantry

Pizza Fusion

12901 McGregor Blvd., Ste., 5, Ft. Myers 239-337-7979 PizzaFusion.com/FortMyers 2146 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples 239-262-8111 PizzaFusion.com/Naples Pizza Fusion offers gourmet pizza, organic, gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free entrees, desserts, beers and wines, and eco-friendly dining. Dine-in, take-out, delivery within five-mile radius. See ad, page 22.

14261 S Tamiami Tr., Ste. 17, Ft. Myers.

239-935-5093 TheSkinnyPantry.com Enjoy paleo compliant grab-and-go meals and vegan muffins. Gluten-free options. Sweet gluten-free deserts such as carrot or cheesecake. See ad, page 70.

Tropical Smoothie Café

Seven locations in Naples, Estero, Ave Maria and Ft. Myers TropicalSmoothie.com

2089 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples 239-643-4959

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they offer a variety of fresh wraps, sandwiches, salads and flatbreads, in addition to real fruit smoothies.

Select from homemade health foods and beverages at the deli and juice bar.

Whole Foods Market

Nature’s Garden Organic Café

Shangri-La Springs

27750 Old U.S. 41 Rd., Bonita Springs 239-949-0749 ShangrilaSprings.com The public can enjoy an organic lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 to 2:30 p.m. Certified organic gardens on the spa property, in addition to locally sourced organic foods, allow for fresh farm to table seasonal produce. Attendees of classes, programs, workshops or events can purchase grab-and-go meals or partake before or after meals in the dining room or on the grounds. See ad, page 53.

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9101 Strada Pl., The Mercado, Naples 239-552-5100 WholeFoodsMarket.com A wide variety of foods prepared by trained team members under the supervision of an experienced chef include natural and organic ingredients purchased locally when possible. No artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives or trans fats. Gluten-free offerings. See ad, page 67.

Wynn’s Market

141 9th St. N., Naples 239-261-7157 Fresh, quality, healthy meals, as well as favorite comfort foods. Organic, natural and imported selections. Gluten-free offerings. See ad, page 43.

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readersnapshot Who’s a Natural Awakenings reader?

Meet Neville Williams

Life’s mission: Doing practical work to make the world a better place, and also writing about ideas for change.

Global Initiative, in New York City.

Expectations for the Future: More solar as it becomes the cheapest form of energy and people also see the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Work: Originally a journalist. Later founded several global solar energy organizations and an American solar company. I wrote Sun Power: How Energy from the Sun is Changing Lives Around the World, Empowering America, and Saving the Planet.

Favorite app: I don’t have an iPhone and have no use for one; I use a PC desktop for work and a MacBook Air for travel. I have a flipphone and seven landline extensions at home so we never miss a call.

Proudest Achievements: Invitation to attend, over multiple years, the Clinton

Favorite websites: New York Times, REFDESK, Daily Kos.

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Local causes supported: Smart growth, Everglades’ restoration, public parks, stop developers from clear cutting, encouraging solar usage in the county and city.

Favorite thing about Natural Awakenings: Covers healthy living and forms a community of concerned and caring people.

Most frequented healthy food restaurant: Loving Hut, in Naples.

How you invest in your community: I participate in civic affairs whenever I can and join influential groups. Also attend public meetings when needed Favorite quote: “The tyranny of the ignoramuses is insurmountable and assured for all time.” ~Albert Einstein What you are doing to be the change you want to see in the world: Developing solar farms in New Mexico to serve rural electric cooperatives. Drive two hybrid cars. Don’t over-consume.

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wisewords

Sharon Salzberg on Mindfulness Simple Ways to Be in the Present Moment

by April Thompson

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How do you define mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the quality of awareness.

When we are mindful, our perception of the present moment isn’t so distorted by bias, adding our own storyline to 42

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reality and pushing away what’s happening.

photo by Fabio Fiippi

ew York City-born Sharon Salzberg experienced a childhood full of loss and upheaval, losing her parents and living in five different household configurations. In college, she discovered the power of meditation to transform suffering and cope with life’s neverending changes.

Born into a Jewish family, Salzberg first encountered Buddhism in 1969 in an Asian philosophy class, inspiring her to undertake an independent study program in India, where she was initiated into the practice via an intense 10-day retreat. “It was very difficult and painful. I sometimes doubted that I’d succeed, yet I never doubted that there was truth there,” she says.

Upon her return home, Salzburg dedicated herself to the path of vipassana- (insight) meditation, becoming a renowned teacher and co-founding the Insight Meditation Society, in Barre, Massachusetts. Today she teaches and speaks to diverse audiences worldwide about the power of mindfulness. Salzberg has authored nine books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness, Real Happiness at Work and Lovingkindness.

Is it possible to be mindful without having an established meditation practice?

Yes, theoretically, but I suspect it’s hard. I honor my own meditation practice for making mindfulness highly accessible for me. It doesn’t take many hours of prep work and is open to everyone. It’s really a practice, like strength training—you have to exercise the mindfulness muscle to reap the benefits.

What’s the best way to arrange time for meditation, and what can motivate us to practice regularly?

Having a sense of structure has helped me the most. I believe strongly in the value of a daily practice, however simple or short. We can ritualize certain practices to help remember to pause and be mindful. For example, every time the phone rings, let it ring three times and use that as a trigger to breathe. When you’ve finished writing an email, take a few conscious moments before sending it. There are lots of ways to cut through the momentum of the busyness and craziness of our lives to return to mindfulness.

Make a commitment to practice for a certain period of daily time for a month or two, and then reassess. Look

for changes during the active course of daily life and query: How am I speaking to myself or to others? Am I more present? Am I more at ease in letting go?

It’s important to look for these subtle changes rather than to set unrealistic expectations for ourselves such as being mindful all day.

Do you have other enabling practices for people new to the state of living mindfully?

Movement meditation is a good place to start; if you’re walking somewhere, try to be more present and feel your feet against the ground. Also, just focus on one thing at a time; instead of multitasking, just drink the cup of tea.

We can also use breath to focus concentration. The breath is a tremendous tool, it’s always with us. If you’re in a contentious meeting and tempers flare, you don’t have to pull out a meditation cushion and sit in a funny position; you can work with your breath right where you are.

How can meditation help to ease suffering?

Sometimes, we think we can ease suffering by only having pleasant feelings and beautiful thoughts. Rather, we can ease suffering by changing the way we relate to our thoughts and feelings. If something unpleasant is happening, most of us flip into an internal monologue about how, “Bad things always happen to me,” or “This is my fault,” or “I shouldn’t feel this.” We compound our suffering by adding judgment and by pushing away discomfort. Instead, we can learn to observe our reactions and release them.

We also tend not to feel pleasure fully or think that something else or more should be happening instead of simply enjoying the moment. We wait for some sense of intensity in order to feel alive, rather than experiencing the ordinary to the utmost. Meditation trains us to be present with pleasant, unpleasant and neutral experiences and stay connected, no matter what’s going on.

Reach freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com. natural awakenings

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AWAKENING TO SPIRIT Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free Us

by Richard Davenport

By its intimate connection with divine love, Spirit infuses human experience with qualities of amazing grace—unexpected clarity, vision, wisdom, peace, compassion, emotional release, inspirational epiphanies, deep understanding and comprehensive healing of mind, body and soul.

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hile society abounds with scientific research, products and practices that promise to enhance our mind or body and the mind-body connection, without Spirit in the mix, neither rises to its full potential. A heart open to a higher power exponentially multiplies the effects of this crucial connection.

“Just as a candle spreads light in a darkened room, people who are living in-Spirit give off a higher energy that can bring light to our hearts and minds.

In other words, we can be inspired just by being in their presence,” according to renowned bestselling author Wayne Dyer, Ph.D.

Experiential, non-verbal and lifechanging encounters with the unbounded power and presence of Spirit in prayer and meditation are difficult to analyze in the same way as mind-body 44

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science. However, Dyer points to the works and outcomes of Spirit as visible evidence of how it lifts us up.

We see individuals with rapturous hearts sending out signals that they love the world and everyone in it. Those that live in Spirit tend to see the world as a friendly place, are at peace with themselves, appear to be open and accepting rather than judgmental and harsh, and often report being healed of all sorts of diseases, relationship challenges, career fluctuations and questions of purpose and direction. They attest to how Spirit shines a triumphant light in the midst of dark nights of the soul, redefining the essence of life itself and declaring us worthy in our innermost reaches.

Personal Healing

When a 19-year-old woman entered basic military training at Lackland Air

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Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas, and was undergoing initial medical and psychological screening, she was identified as having body and mind issues that would require her to be separated from the service. These problems included organ failures and spinal misalignment, as well as severe consequences of an emotionally abusive upbringing. It was determined that she could not handle the physical and mental demands of military life. Because the policy was to not treat such problems if identified upon entering the service, authorities allowed her to remain in training until her separation from the Air Force could be processed.

The woman was impressed and also distressed by the finality of the verdict and assessment tools used by mind and body experts among the medical staff. In talking with a chaplain on the base, she came to understand that she could choose to appeal her case to another jurisdiction, a “higher” court of Spirit. Focusing on the voice of divine love, she grew to see Spirit as more than a higher power. She saw Spirit as a higher authority. She surrendered to divine love’s authority as ultimate law, supremely qualified to reorder her whole being. She trusted that aligning with spiritual power could change her view of her identity and the seemingly inescapable consequences of genetics, environment and human history denying her desire to serve her country in this way.

Listening to a higher witness testifying on her behalf and identifying her authentic being as the magnificent expression of the magnificent Creator, she felt encouraged to the point that her mind and body stopped arresting her progress and became more effective servants, responding with greater freedom and joy. One limitation after another fell away, and the military and medical authorities seemed pleased with her progress as she neared completion of training. Finally, performing a mile-and-a-half run within a required time remained the only obstacle to graduation, and she was still 45 seconds too slow.

This helpful passage from the Hebrew prophet Isaiah became central to her prayer and meditation as she approached her last running attempt:

Young people will get tired;

strapping young men will stumble

and fall.

But those who trust in the Eternal One will regain their strength.

They will soar on wings as eagles.

They will run—never winded, never weary.

They will walk—never tired,

never faint. ~Isaiah 40: 30-31 (The Voice)

She passed her final attempt with 18 seconds to spare, running on eagles’ wings.

So, how can we all discern such a divine witness to our original authentic being amidst loud testimony of all the voices and labels shouting in our head and body, including those imposed by others?

Prayer and Meditation

There are two approaches to listening to the voice within, whether we name it God, higher power, Spirit, grace, Eternal One, or divine love or Love.

Complementary, rather than mutually exclusive, both approaches require a capacity, gained through patient practice, of quieting the inner and outer chatter and learning to hear that which calls us to be more than what human experience suggests is possible. It’s who we are in the eyes of grace.

Sanford C. Wilder, of Grafton, Illinois, author of Listening to Grace, offers personal growth and development programs through EducareUnlearning.com that encourage prayer and meditation that emphasize listening. He practices both approaches and makes distinctions between them.

“When I pray, I am directing my thoughts toward God, listening and often affirming what I know to be divinely true. I am yearning to surrender my will and affections in conscious connection with the divine such that I or another receives a blessing,” shares Wilder. In such prayerful listening, he hopes to gain something, often a new insight and corresponding manifestation.

“When I meditate, my intention is to sacrifice every thought, concept, image and feeling to God, the only consciousness. I trust that listening and observing with nonattachment helps me release conscious and unconscious

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo.

As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential. conditioned thought patterns permeated by a human sense of self.” Through meditative listening, he hopes to release everything rather than receive anything, accepting that everyone is equipped and able to be open to, witness and experience nonstop blessings.

Helen Mathis has been an educator in the Philippines and Swaziland as well as the U.S., including an instructor of religion at Principia College, near St. Louis; she is now part of a Centering Prayer Circle in Stockton, California. She explains that centering prayer may be seen as a hybrid that embraces both prayer and meditation, nourishing what’s beneath the preoccupied self to awaken a deeper and vastly more authentic self.

Mathis appreciates what Cynthia Bourgeault explores in her book Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening, that, “This confusion between small self and the larger Self… [the] ‘True Self,’ ‘Essential Self’ or ‘Real I’—is the core illusion of the human condition, and penetrating this illusion is what awakening is all about.”

Like Bourgeault, Mathis believes that it’s not about the absence of natural awakenings

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Through conscious listening we discover that our true nature—as witnessed by Spirit—though sometimes obscured from view, is never altered from its original beauty and wholeness. ~Helen Mathis thoughts so much as detaching from our thoughts, trusting that we can let go and be safe, consent to surrender human will and forgo personal agendas. Only then can spiritual sense come into play.

“The goal is to awaken to, open to and get in touch with our innermost being and Spirit,” Mathis affirms.

“Clearly, centering prayer assumes we each have a spiritual awareness of the divine within us that acts, as Bourgeault puts it, as ‘a kind of interior compass whose magnetic north is always fixed on God.’”

Core Shift

We often approach a Spirit dimension with the attitude of “what it can do for me.” The higher practice that mystics and other deep thinkers of various faith traditions ultimately arrive at instead centers on transforming our whole self to align with Spirit’s purpose for us, which changes everything.

Reverend Dr. Michael Beckwith, founder of the New Thought Agape Spiritual Center, in Los Angeles, and a spiritual mentor to Oprah Winfrey, believes, “The relationship we have with the infinite is more about how we are to serve it than it is to serve us.”

Beckwith describes three primary stages of realizing the power and purpose of divine Spirit expressed as our spirit. The first is that of a victim (feeling powerless, unable to effect change). The second is when an individual learns the existence of universal law that responds to our thinking, emotions and attitude; we learn how to use it to stabilize life structures and demonstrate health and well-being.

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“Ultimately, in stage three, we become a vehicle of life in service to life.

Instead of using the law, the law uses us. Life fulfills its own nature through us,” he says. “All of life is conspiring for our freedom, liberation, wholeness and health.”

He urges us not to stop and stagnate at stage two, using divine laws only to manifest personal conveniences, stuff and even people for our use; this can hijack views of abundance into materialism and consumerism. He quips, “We are not here to go shopping.”

Dwelling in Spirit

Grace and Spirit work in us, through us and between us, yet we can’t simply summon them up or outline their outcomes.

To feel Spirit’s presence, we must surrender our own sense of how it will work, its timeline and the impact on our ego or status quo. As with anything worthwhile, conscientious practice is essential.

Life, defined by Spirit, gives fresh strength and impetus to mind and body. All three are vital elements of the dance of life.

Richard Davenport is a spiritual life educator (HigherGroundForLife.com) and the founding executive director of an inclusive nationwide Bible and spiritual life community (BibleAndSpiritualLife. org). Now based in St. Louis, MO, he is a retired Air Force chaplain, having served at Lackland and other U.S. Air Force bases on three continents.

FIVE WAYS TO PRAY FROM THE HEART

by Richard Davenport

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rayer from a heart willing to surrender, change, learn, grow and bless others works to keep us centered on pure motives like wellness, wholeheartedness and compassion. Such prayer can help us progress spiritually.

These five forms of prayer, found in the Bible, have a universal application to any spiritual practice. Although differing in their approach, all share the purpose of creating a fuller mindfulness of our true identity and relationship to the divine, while enhancing our capacity to bless all creation. If we are not feeling the desired breakthroughs using one form, perhaps the one most familiar or comfortable to us, we might do well to explore others.

Praise – a posture of adoration, honoring and surrender to a power, vision, and authority greater than our own.

Thanksgiving – or better yet, for its consistency and permeating of our whole self, thanks-living. The garden of our spirit is enriched by embracing a gratitude attitude in all we do.

Petition – a relational posture that opens our heart as we learn to ask for help, to seek perspective beyond a limited self, beyond a smaller, egodriven orientation.

Intercession – praying for others; blessing, honoring and cherishing them as God sees them. When we feel burdened and blocked by our own trials, expressing empathy and compassion for others can unlock our heart and mind. We can lovingly witness the true nature of those that are seemingly tangled in forces blocking or opposing their higher good.

Affirmation – release and rest in divine authority, acknowledging the uni-verse as literally one song reflecting the singular harmony that Spirit knows and is unfolding in every moment to meet our need in forms we can see and feel right now.

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In quieting my mind or taking the position of observer and focusing attention on my heart center, I engage and strengthen the deeper part of myself that is attuned to the whisperings of Spirit. ~Gwen Peterson

Attuning to the Still, Small Voice Within Six Local Experts Share Their Experiences and Practices

by Linda Sechrist

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pirit communicates with soul in inaudible whispers. To be guided

by God, our soul depends on Spirit’s directives, particularly in our darkest moments, when negative thinking can dominate and Spirit’s murmurs become imperceptible.

Although we might surmise in such tumultuous times that guidance, light, love and healing are unavailable, this is only false evidence appearing real. Turning off or turning down the volume of this negative mind chatter is possible if we have been faithful to a spiritual practice that we can maintain long enough to detach from our thoughts and focus our attention in the present moment, the only space in which we can feel the presence of God’s spirit and hear the still soft voice. Natural Awakenings turned to six local experts to learn about their experience with practices that attune them to Spirit.

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Goddess I AM

Beth Brown-Rinella, owner of Goddess I AM, in Naples, leads guided meditations and uses them in her spiritual practice.

“Guided meditation was the method I used to overcome the challenge of clearing my mind of all thought,” she says.

Lighting a candle and using a ritual helps to bring Brown-Rinella into the present. “My daylong ritual starts in the morning upon rising. I give thanks for the day yet to come. Then I light a candle and an incense stick to fill my space with an uplifting scent. While brewing my tea, I read a page or two of spiritual encouragement, and then step outside to look up at the sky and offer gratitude.

These simple rituals bring focus and help me to stay on course with my personal and spiritual growth,” she notes.

Open Mind Zen Yoga and Zen meditation practice have helped Laurie Lyons, co-founder of

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Open Mind Zen, in Naples, live in present tense. “In Zen meditation, I am present, but not communicating with anyone outside myself, so there’s no asking an outside authority for help or love. There’s only looking inward with the understanding that there is no out there separate from in here, and that I am the love I seek. Everything I need is right here, right now. Some interpret this realization of connection as unification with God. In Zen, we just use different words,” she comments.

Lyons likes to quote the 13th-century Zen Master, Dogen Zenji. “To study the way is to study the self. To study the self is to forget the self. To forget the self is to be awakened by all things.”

She explains, “When I meditate, I am watching the content and the happenings of my mind and body. Over time, I let go of a lot of stuff that is not real and come to see the world differently. I awaken to things in the present as they actually are, rather than how I think they are,” advises Lyons.

Mystical Moon

Nicole Sandhu, store manager at Mystical Moon, in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, has learned how to feel her connection with Spirit by developing trust. “In my opinion, trust is the most important tool for learning to be present to Spirit. Doubt causes a fuzzy connection or one that feels non-existent.

Through regular meditation practice, a few leaps of faith and using tools such as oracle cards, I learned to stop doubting and trust that Spirit is always near, always offering me guidance and always has my best interest at heart. I no longer second-guess my experiences

or the signs and messages showing me that I am connected,” says Sandhu.

Another important tool for Sandhu is disconnecting physically, mentally and electronically from the outside world on a weekly basis for at least one hour a day, and sometimes for a whole day. “During this time, I focus more on intention-filled activities—listening to a CD of chants, guided meditation or reading books such as Gary Zukav’s Seat of the Soul—which are geared towards enhancing my spiritual connection,” clarifies Sandhu.

Center of Eternal Light

Diana Palm’s practice and teaching of Theta Healing to her clients has strengthened her ability to connect and use the benefits of deep meditation.

“The brain can be trained to generate theta waves, a state of very deep relaxation used in hypnosis and during REM sleep, in an instant,” says Palm, who sees clients at the Center of Eternal Light, in Fort Myers. “This new, yet timeless reconnection allows for clearing the web of old wounds, which is what allows a person to see, hear and feel Spirit. Everyone can learn to tap into the energy of theta waves for self-healing or for the benefit of helping others,” explains Palm, a theta healing instructor and author of Setting Spirits Free.

Hidden Wholeness

Kathy Hall, energy healer and owner of Hidden Wholeness, is the author of The Pocket Guide to Presence, an e-book about getting and being present. “I wrote about my own simple techniques, such as how upon waking in the morning I pause to feel the sheets, my feet on the floor and even the clothes against my skin. I pay attention, and as my thoughts wander away to other things, I bring them back to

the room again,” notes Hall, who also explains that she talks aloud to the thoughts that generate feelings of fear or discomfort. “This keeps me present to my inner feelings that are reacting to what I think is going on around me, and reminds me that the world is not doing things to me that I am reacting to.”

Hall notes that it’s also good to go outside for a walk or run. “This helps me to connect to my physical body, which also keeps me present. The most important way I get and stay present is to consistently notice when I am ‘not’ present and bring my awareness back,” she advises.

Spiritual Communities Network

Gwen Peterson is the founder of SpiritualCommunitiesNetwork.com, which has spread from Naples to Sarasota and St. Petersburg. In addition to managing an online community calendar for Spirit strengthening group activities and a member directory, Peterson leads Your Soul Connection heart-opening meditations. “My heart center is my connection point to soul, which is one with God’s grace. This connection is always there and flowing to me. In quieting my mind or taking the position of observer and focusing attention on my heart center, I engage and strengthen the deeper part of myself that is attuned to the whisperings of Spirit. It wasn’t enough to just feel

that presence flowing to me. I wanted to develop a dialogue. As I did this, I began to sense Spirit’s guidance every day, in every moment,” says Peterson.

Perhaps our communing with Spirit is the fulfillment of a desire to reunite our fragmented parts and reclaim a state of wholeness. This process, guided and inspired by Spirit, is why we need to listen so attentively for its whisperings.

Local Resources Goddess I AM, 600 Goodlette Rd. N., Naples. 239-228-6949. GoddessIAM.com.

See ad, page 78.

Open Mind Zen, 1250 Tamiami Trl. #205, Naples. 239-961-2491. OpenMind ZenNaples.com. See ad, page 45.

Mystical Moon, 8890 Salrose Ln., Ste. 107, Fort Myers; 8951 Bonita Beach Rd., Ste. 255, Bonita Springs; 239-9393339. TheMysticalMoon.com. See ad, page 79.

Center of Eternal Light, 260 Professional Pl., N. Fort Myers, 239-599-4700.

ConnectWithTheLight.com.

Hidden Wholeness, 407-538-3044, HiddenWholeness.com. See ad, page 73.

SpiritualCommunitiesNetwork.com.

See ad, page 74.

While brewing my tea, I read a page or two of spiritual encouragement, and then step outside to look up at the sky and offer gratitude. ~Beth Brown-Rinella natural awakenings

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greenliving

Faith Groups Join in Preserving All Creation

by Avery Mack

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he simple act of The film Renewal tion: What is the cost to our spiritual life if we switching on a documents this act selfishly? “We need bulb can light a room; preaching that grassroots movement to know what is sacred and what matters for humans are caretakers of the Earth can enlight- at RenewalProject.net. generations to come,” says Bass. “This is an en a community. “How exciting time for communities of faith are we faithful to God’s creation?” asks to work together.” Churches, synaDiana Butler Bass, Ph.D., author of Grounded: Finding God in the World— gogues, mosques and other faith groups are sending a message to their congreA Spiritual Revolution, in Alexandria, gations and communities: We need to Virginia. “The connection between the care for what the Creator has given us. natural world and the world we live in helps us understand the remarkable Showing the Way responsibility we have to the planet.”

“We wanted to reduce reliance on for Along with an emotional bottom eign oil, support local businesses, buy line, many people pose a greater ques-

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photo courtesy of View Dynamic Glass

Green Congregations

Churches, synagogues, mosques and other faith groups are sending a message to their congregations and communities: We need to care for what the Creator has given us.

American-made and be cost-effective,” says Rabbi David Freelund, of the Cape Cod Synagogue, in Hyannis, Massachusetts. “Going solar made sense.

We leased panels, joined a renewable energy credit program and now generate 90 percent of our energy.”

The synagogue also upgrades equipment to more efficient levels when it’s time for replacement, composts waste, maintains a garden to supply a local food pantry, switched to LED lights, zoned their facility’s heating and cooling and follows a single-stream recycling program. “We seek to lead by example. Members ask, ‘What else can we do?’ As Jews, our mission is not fulfilled unless we lift up others toward the divine,” says Freelund.

Windows often make up a large portion of a building of worship, but can be the least energy-efficient components. Members of Colorado’s Steamboat Christian Center, in Steamboat Springs, used to wear sunglasses or change seats during services to escape the sun’s glare and heat. After installing smart glass windows, everyone can now fully concentrate on the sermon.

“The glass tints like transition sunglasses, based on available light or

preprogrammed preferences,” explains Brandon Tinianov, a senior director with View Dynamic Glass, the company that supplied the new windows. “It also reduces heating and cooling costs.”

Laying Down Burdens

“Clutter represents postponed decisions,” says Barbara Hemphill, author of Less Clutter, More Life, in Raleigh, North Carolina. “Lack of time, interest and energy keep us from passing along what we no longer want or need. For most of us, 80 percent of what we keep, we never use.”

That includes paperwork, another specialty of her Productive Environment Institute. When the United Methodist North Carolina Conference Center’s new building was ready, there was plenty to sort through before moving.

“We estimate seven tons of items were recycled. It became an example for individual churches,” says Hemphill.

Her own church, Mount Zion Methodist, in nearby Garner, has cleared out two storage rooms. Items were reclaimed, auctioned or donated to a shelter. “We gained Sunday school rooms in return,” she says.

We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affect us all. ~Pope Francis

Practice Makes Perfect

Awareness of the environment and eco-friendly living is a concept religions agree on. At the All Dulles Area Muslim Society, in Sterling, Virginia, an education program encourages community members to recycle, plant trees and lower water and energy usage. Including their Sunday School, they reduced their overall carbon footprint by 13 percent and energy consumption by 21 percent.

Interfaith Power & Light is active in most states and can help implement such user- and eco-friendly changes.

Imam Johari Abdul-Malik, the director of outreach for the Dar Al

Hijrah Islamic Center, in Falls Church, Virginia, suggests thinking larger and encourages members to ask for changes in public policies by lobbying their representatives. In 2016, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago will promote a Green Ramadan. During Ramadan, members re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance.

Greener than most, The Garden Church, in San Pedro, California, has no building. “People tell me, ‘The outdoors is my church;’ I take them at their word,” says founding Pastor Anna Woofenden. “We have a central table surrounded by gardens. About 90 percent of what we grow is vegetables, the rest is flowers. This church is a living sanctuary, a place to belong, a place of community. God’s love is made visible as people are fed in body, mind and spirit.”

“Eco-friendly teaching represents a new spiritual imagination of how to live well in the world,” observes Bass.

“Faith makes a difference.”

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

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healthykids

Generous Pint-Sized Givers Teaching Kids How to Care and Share

by Jennifer Jacobson

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mong a parent’s greatest rewards is seeing their children grow up to be productive, contributing members of society, including knowing how to give back and enrich the communities in which they live. Children can start participating in the giving process as toddlers. Having them observe regular charitable acts can make a strong impression and catalyze later independent initiatives.

Learning how to give and developing the associated skill set is a lifelong journey. Giving becomes a way of life—of looking at the world and determining how to help the causes they feel passionate about. Here’s how to take those crucial first steps.

Ask kids how they’d like to help. If giving to a cause is new to the household, explain that the family has many opportunities. Then engage children in a conversation about the general areas they may feel strongly about supporting—perhaps individuals or families in need, animals or wildlife habitat— and start a list of those that the family is interested in.

Next, start researching related local organizations, facilities and institutions, and matching them to the topics on the list. Ideas may include food kitchens, pet shelters and animal

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rescues, nature parks, senior citizens’ residences, camps for low-income or physically or mentally challenged children, zoos, museums, aquariums and local libraries.

Make a game plan. Get creative about how to actually help the selected causes. Talk it through together, map out activities—like visiting, donating funds or materials or participating in fundraising efforts—and post the results somewhere at home that is highly visible. “Gamify” it to some degree with tasks that turn into goals that turn into accomplishments that result in chits.

Quick tasks can make a big difference. Clear the clutter. Every six to 12 months, launch an all-family household closet cleaning day that includes the toy chest and maybe the garage. Add nonperishable healthy food items they’ve picked out while grocery shopping. Make a “donate box” positioned where kids can add to it and deliver the donations often, even if it’s small.

Find ways to raise money for donations. Organize a family or neighborhood yard sale or organic bake sale that involves kids at all stages of the project, and give all or a portion of the proceeds to a selected charity.

Associate getting with giving. For birthdays and holidays, include a

handwritten “certificate of giving” that specifies the amount of money available for them to gift to their favorite charity. Take the child to the charity site to make the monetary donation in person, if possible. For non-local organizations, write a check and have the child include a letter with their thoughts and mail it.

Volunteer to do community service. Public gardens need weeding, historic buildings need painting and food banks need hands. Find goodwill tasks that are age-appropriate and engaging.

Grow the mindset. Tell real-life stories about kids or groups of kids that have found creative ways to give back. Encourage empathy by sharing appropriate stories of struggle. Ask kids, “How would you want people to help you in this situation?” Explain the action the family is taking and the resulting benefit to the recipient.

The conversation might be, “We don’t need to store all this stuff when someone else could really use it.” Or, “I bet there is a kid out there who would really like playing with this toy.

I know you used to love it, but how about if you pass it along to someone else so they can enjoy it as much as you have?” Keep the focus on the people in need and your child’s ability to share an experience through an item.

Establishing an impermanent connection to material things can help kids understand the importance of nurturing relationships over acquiring goods.

Develop a language of giving in the household by creating opportunities to incorporate it into regular conversation. Appropriate comments could share concepts such as seeing ourselves as stewards of the planet and the things we think we own; it’s our duty to help those in need when we have abundance; and if there is ever a time when we are without, we hope that others will think of us and help us.

Teaching children how their thoughts, words and actions impact those around them is a lesson that bears repeating.

Jennifer Jacobson lives in Seattle and has served on the boards of several influential nonprofits and other organizations focused on conservation, education and community. natural awakenings

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healingways

Oregano and cinnamon oils have powerful antifungal properties, even against Candida-type fungi resistant to prescription drugs, according to Brazilian research from Universidade Federal. A groundbreaking study from the Slovak University of Technology, in Slovakia, even suggests that rosemary oil can kill cancer cells.

These are all scents that can be the foundations of do-it-yourself perfumes.

Customized Blends

HEAVENLY SCENTS How to Make Your Own Natural Oil Fragrance Blends

by Kathleen Barnes

A

whiff of sweetness can communicate a personal signature of tranquility, alertness or romance, or it can cause a bout of miserable sneezing, wheezing or nausea for those in the vicinity and even the unwitting wearer.

Commercial Chemicals

“When you see ‘fragrance’ on a personal care product label, read it as ‘hidden chemicals,’” warns the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit watchdog Environmental Working Group (EWG). “A major loophole in the [U.S.] Food and Drug Administration’s federal law lets manufacturers of products like shampoo, lotion and body wash include nearly any ingredient under the term fragrance without actually listing the chemical.” Companies that manufacture personal care products are required by law to list the ingredients they use, but fragrances and trade-secret formulas are exempt.

What’s known as a dirty little secret in the fragrance industry is the unlabeled presence of toxic chemicals not only in perfumes, but in any personal care product that includes a scent. Lab tests commissioned by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and analyzed by the EWG confirm the presence of parabens 54

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that interfere with hormone production, cancer-causing phthalates, and synthetic musks that have been linked to hormone disruption, among many other ills.

“It’s fun to experiment with organic essential oils and create that unique blend that becomes a personal signature,” says Charlynn Avery, an aromatherapist with Aura Cacia, in Norway, Iowa. She explains that essential oils have three basic “notes” and blending them correctly will result in a fragrance suited to last throughout the day.

“The base note is heavier and lasts the longest. Patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood, cedarwood and jasmine hang around longer in the atmosphere and on the wearer,” she explains. Blending the base with a slightly lighter middle note

Naturally Safe Scents

“Opting for natural scents from organic essential oils not only offers a toxinfree alternative, the oils’ aromatherapy benefits have time-proven therapeutic value,” suggests Dorene Petersen, president and founder of the American College of Healthcare Sciences, in Portland, Oregon.

Recent research from the Pontificia Universidade Catolica, in Brazil, confirms that lavender oil has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and pain-relieving properties similar to those of a mild-dose narcotic. Plus, it smells heavenly, says botanical perfumer Roxana Villa, of Woodland Hills, a California-based spokesperson for the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy.

“Considering the part of the plant used will give you an idea of its therapeutic value,” says Villa. “A root base will be good for grounding. Since bark is like skin, oils such as birch will benefit skin and muscles. Oils from flowers are excellent for anything related to the head and mind.”

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GIFT BLEND FOR MEN Western cultures value “manly” Earth scents like sandalwood and cedarwood, while in other cultures, flowery scents are acceptable for men.

An appealing woodsy blend for an American male blends cedarwood, clary sage and lime.

like lavender, rosemary or clary sage and a light and short-lasting top note like orange, lime or peppermint will create a complex and pleasing blend.

“That’s the beauty of the art of it,” says Avery. “You can create synergistic blends that harmonize and complement the attributes of each to such an extent that you may not be able to detect the scents of the individual oils.”

There are no hard and fast rules, but our experts offer a few guidelines for creating our own unique blends that will be well-received as holiday gifts.

Use a base of oil like jojoba or sweet almond to create a perfumed oil.

Note that oils undiluted by a carrier can burn the skin.

For oil-based blends, use a ratio of 50 drops of bottom note oil, 30 drops of a middle note and 20 drops of a top note in two ounces of carrier oil.

Another option is to use an alcohol base of either isopropyl rubbing alcohol or 85-proof vodka to make a spray perfume; the alcohol will evaporate quickly.

Alcohol-based blends generally last longer, especially with fragile citrus oils.

A usual ratio is 10 to 20 drops of essential oil per ounce of alco-

The 1-2-3s of Blending Oils Base Notes Middle Notes Top Notes sandalwood lavender orange jasmine bergamot lemon myrrh geranium grapefruit vetiver rosemary eucalyptus patchouli tea tree lime cedarwood clary sage peppermint A general ratio of 50 percent base note oils to 30 percent middle notes and 20 percent top notes is recommended.

Source: courtesy of AuraCacia.com

hol-based carrier.

Oil-based blends are ready to use almost immediately. Alcohol-based blends should age a week or two at least and will become more strongly scented in time.

Store fragrances in bottles in a dark, cool place. Bottles with tiny rollon caps are commercially available.

“It’s very much trial and error to arrive at a preferred scent, so be creative

and keep careful notes of experiments and improve on them as you gain experience,” counsels Avery. “If you crinkle your nose at patchouli, you probably won’t like an oil blend with it, either.

Choose scents you like.”

Kathleen Barnes is author of numerous natural health books including Food Is Medicine. Connect at Kathleen Barnes.com.

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fitbody

Airplane Yoga Six Easy Stretches Ease the Journey

by Cynthia Bowman

T

he majority of the symptoms we can experience during flying—stiffness, poor circulation and swollen feet—are due to lack of movement rather than the altitude or pressurized cabin air. Knowing this can make healthy flying easier.

Drinking lots of water and moving about and stretching every two to three hours on long flights is key; trips to the bathroom naturally help fulfill this. We also can keep blood from collecting in our lower extremities by finding a way to elevate our legs and feet periodically. Wiggle all 10 toes, shift positions and go for these six discreet airplane yoga stretches.

Etiquette tip: Do the first two stretches at the back of the plane with adequate space and a wall to lean on. Don’t do these in the aisle; hanging on to someone’s seat back rocks it and can be annoying.

A quad stretch involves the shoulders, upper legs, calves and ankles, while elevating each foot and getting the blood moving. Hang on to a wall, grab an ankle and bring the heel as close to the butt as possible. Then rotate the ankle in a circular motion. Do this as long as it feels worth doing, and then switch arms and legs.

A calf stretch is a simple way to target calf and hamstring muscles, as well as ankles. Stand facing a wall, placing both hands at shoulder height on the wall for Quad Stretch balance, elbows bent. Take one foot

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Calf Stretch

Upper Body Stretch

Neck Stretch

Twisting the Torso

Bending Forward

forward and rest it on its heel, with toes pointing up and resting on the wall. Lean forward to the point of feeling a good stretch in the calf.

Stretch 30 seconds per foot, gradually going deeper into the pose after a few breaths.

Etiquette tip: The next four stretches can be done in an airplane seat or in the back of the plane.

The upper body stretch targets wrists, hands, arms, shoulders, back and the upper body in general. Sit upright with feet firmly planted on the floor. Lift arms up and interlace fingers before turning palms to face the ceiling. Relax the shoulders and neck. The arms shouldn’t be covering the ears and can be adjusted by moving them a few inches forward or back.

Tall individuals may need to bend their elbows, which still allows for stretching of the upper body.

Neck stretches release tension and stiffness by tilting the head from side-to-side. Don’t make circular motions, as they can cause neck and spine compression. If holding the head to assist a deeper stretch, be considerate of neighbors by pointing the raised elbow forward to cradle the neck instead of resting it on a seatmate.

Twisting the torso benefits both the spine and back muscles.

Yogis believe that twisting motions also massage internal organs.

While twisting, hang on to the armrest with both hands and sit as upright as possible, with legs together and feet firmly planted.

Don’t bounce into the pose or shift or lift buttocks off the seat, but make slow, fluid movements.

Bending forward while seated gives the back, neck and legs a good, deep stretch.

All of these movements work well while we’re in the air and are equally useful on road trips, in the office or whenever we need a break.

Cynthia Bowman is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, CA, who specializes in travel, culture and lifestyle topics. Visit JoyJournist.com. natural awakenings

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Throw out the animal products and build your menu from vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. This simple step eliminates animal fats, cuts cholesterol and boosts antioxidant intake, all of which are likely good for the brain according to neurology studies published by the American Medical Association.

And be sure take vitamin B12; this is important for anyone over 50, and essential for people on vegan diets. The adult recommended daily allowance is 2.4 micrograms, and all common supplements contain more than that.

Dr. Neal Barnard on Diet, Lifestyle and Brain Health

by Sandy Pukel

D

r. Neal Barnard is the founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and author of 17 books on nutrition and health. An adjunct associate professor of medicine at George Washington University, in Washington, D.C., he has led research studies in diabetes, obesity and other serious health issues. Barnard’s latest interest in brain health is the focus of his book Power Foods for the Brain.

even if they carry this gene (International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry).

Can those with signs of mild cognitive impairment see improvement by following your recommendations?

Scientists from leading institutions including the University of Cincinnati and the University of Oxford have tested a number of different approaches, using grape juice, blueberry juice, a B-vitamin combination (B6, B12 and folate) How has your family history influand other nutritional supports, and have enced your interest in brain health? found overall that dietary changes can All of my grandparents suffered from var- help. To keep it simple, I would suggest ious kinds of dementia, as did my father following a low-fat, plant-based diet and, to a lesser extent, my mother. It’s rich in fruits and vegetables, along with an epidemic. Alzheimer’s disease now a vitamin B12 supplement. attacks about half of Americans by their

mid-80s, according to the Alzheimer’s What other factors besides food help Association, which publishes an annual maintain good cognitive function?

Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures.

Lace up your sneakers. University of Illinois researchers found that a brisk, If both parents have had Alzheimer’s, 40-minute walk three times a week is a child destined to have it, too? reversed brain shrinkage and improved There are genes, particularly as the memory. It also pays to get adequate APOE e4 allele, that increase Alzheimsleep; when the clock strikes 10 p.m., er’s risk. But genes are not destiny. A turn out the light. recent Scandinavian study is among

those suggesting that people that follow What’s the most vital dietary change healthful diets can dramatically improve we can make to ensure cognitive their odds of retaining brain health— abilities in later life?

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What effect do dietary fats and metals have on the development of Alzheimer’s?

The Chicago Health and Aging Project showed that saturated fats (think chicken fat, cheese and bacon grease) and trans fats (think doughnuts) increase Alzheimer’s risk, probably because of their cholesterol-raising effect. Excess copper (in shellfish and liver) and iron (in meat and liver) are linked to Alzheimer’s, too, according to American Medical Association publications.

Aluminum is more controversial, but I recommend avoiding it. You’ll find it in some antacids, baking powder, some processed cheeses, pizzas and of course, aluminum cookware and antiperspirants. It pays to read labels and choose aluminum-free alternatives.

What are some of the best power foods for brain health?

Emphasize green leafy vegetables, almonds and seeds for vitamin E, plus sweet potatoes, a staple in Okinawa, home to an extraordinary number of healthy centenarians. Add a handful of blueberries to morning oatmeal or make them a mid-morning snack.

What can we do to increase public awareness of how life choices affect brain health?

The Physicians Committee offers free resources at pcrm.org.

Dr. Neal Barnard will be a keynote speaker on the 13th Holistic Holiday at Sea cruise, departing Feb. 27, 2016. For more information, call 800-496-0989 or visit HolisticHolidayAtSea.com. See ad, page 65.

businessspotlight

Infinite Stones Offers Infinite Potential

by Lee Walker

T

here’s far a bigger story behind Infinite Stones, in Fort Myers, than what the mind may perceive at first glance.

Behind the local warehouse operation, which stays busy selling imported marble, quartz and granite to contractors, designers and homeowners for fabrication into durable, beautiful kitchen and bathroom countertops, there is a gem of a 25-year friendship between co-owners Stewart Sullivan and Matt Abate.

The two men are partners in the unique, expensive and fascinating business of artisan mining in Minas, Gerais, Brazil, one of the most productive gem-mining regions, known throughout the world for the finest aquamarine and tourmaline, as well as significant finds of quartz, chrysoberyl, diamond, emerald, kyanite, morganite, mica, feldspar (for the ceramic industry) and

granite. Both men and their team share responsibilities for the Fort Myers, Boston, Massachusetts and overseas operations.

Infinite Stones also supports the local metaphysical community by selling their semiprecious stones to healers and offering their warehouse space for metaphysical classes and fairs on the first Thursday evening of every month. “We’re engaged in building a strong metaphysical community here. It’s the major reason we moved our operation from Massachusetts to Fort Myers,” says Abate.

Infinite Stones, LLC, is located at 12911 Metro Pkwy., in Fort Myers. Appointments are required for wholesale transactions. Call 239-561-1981. For more information, visit InfiniteStonesLLC.com. See ad, page 69.

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naturalpet

Dehydrated Foods

Eat, Bark and Be Merry Healthy Holiday Treats for Our Pets

by Sandra Murphy

A

s with families everywhere, special taste treats are on the menu for many dogs, cats and wild birds during the holiday season.

Owners are cautioned not to share rich, unfamiliar foods from the table that can be detrimental to an animal’s health.

Better fare are homemade treats of organic, safe and tasty ingredients—true gifts from the heart.

Homemade assures the quality of ingredients, avoids unhealthy additives and allows the giver to adjust for individual taste or food sensitivities.

Most healthy recipes can be made from readily available ingredients.

Wild Birds

Offer them a variety of seeds and fresh water. Always use unsalted, unseasoned seeds. Mix harder-to-crack striped sunflower seeds with the smaller black oil version to attract the largest number of birds. Organically grown peanuts in the shell, dried fruit, oranges, pomegranates or rehydrated raisins offer a burst of energy. Impale round fruits, halved, on a small dowel rod attached to the feeding table to hold them in place.

Note that oats go to waste, shelled sunflower seeds spoil and cracked corn attracts raccoons. Pass on any kind of popcorn.

DIY Suet

Mix one part organic peanut butter with five parts organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) corn meal.

Smear into a pinecone to hang from a branch or directly on tree bark for woodpeckers and wrens to en60

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joy. Don’t use low-fat peanut butter because birds need to pack in the calories in order to stay warm.

Cats

Organic catnip, fresh or dried and baked into a crunchy treat, will bring kitty running. In recipes, avoid canned tuna because of bisphenol A (BPA) concerns; also minimize the frequency and portion of tuna and salmon treats due to mercury accumulation in the fish.

Unseasoned tuna or salmon packed in water in a pouch is a better choice.

Many recipes labeled for dogs can be converted for cats by making them into smaller bites.

Dogs

“When possible, I put organic and local foods, non-GMO, hormone-and antibiotic-free, grass-fed and humanely raised properties at the top of my list. A healthier dog means fewer vet visits and more years together,” says Tonya Wilhelm, a dog trainer in Toledo, Ohio.

“Buy in bulk from a co-op or farmer and maybe share with friends to get the best price.”

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Dehydrating removes moisture from food while retaining nutrients, and comprises a distinct cooking method.

Stephanie Raya, resident chef at Excalibur Dehydrator, in Sacramento, California, recommends, “For safe chicken and pork, pre-cook before dehydrating. Beef can be dehydrated from a raw state. My Boston terriers also love dehydrated, sweet potato chips.”

A number of commercial dehydrated meat and fish jerkies have been recalled (search DogFoodAdvisor. com/?s=treats). Homemade treats offer superior control of ingredients.

“When I make my pets’ treats, I know what’s in their food, including the herbs used for flavor,” says Raya. After she’s ensured that the food is thoroughly dried, she packs it in vacuum bags and stores them away from light.

She notes that dehydrating takes longer than baking, but is cost-effective at 25 to 50 cents an hour. Veggie options include dehydrated zucchini chips, butternut squash chips, cherry tomato bites, matchstick carrots or peach or other fruit slices.

Make it Festive

A cat’s sense of smell is 10 to 15 times better than ours, but is still modest compared to dogs that out-sniff us by a factor of 30 to 60 times; that’s why putting wrapped treats under a holiday tree or in a stocking is a bad idea. Store them securely and then bring them out when it’s time to open gifts. Use blue tissue paper for easy-to-open Hanukkah gifts, red or green for Christmas (bows, yes; ribbons, no). For dogs that love puzzles, placing treats inside a wrapped box adds to the fun.

Remember that rich or unfamiliar foods can make pets sick. Instead, gift them with their own healthy, safe treats from known ingredients so that everyone has a happy holiday.

Connect with Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

Special Holiday Pet Recipes Chicken Bites Yields: Approximately 24 cookies 1 cup filtered water 10 oz chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into 2-in cubes 1 /2 cup brown rice, dry 1 cup coconut flour 1 Tbsp ground flax seed Place water, chicken and rice in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer covered, for one hour. Strain and let cool.

Coconut Bites Yields: Approximately 20 cookies 1 orange, peeled, seeded, chopped into bite-size pieces 1 banana, peeled, chopped into bite-size pieces 1 /2 cup coconut flour Lemon zest Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Put the orange and banana into a food processor or blender. Purée until smooth.

Combine blended fruit and coconut flour. Mix well. Form into 3-inch flat discs and place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Lightly sprinkle lemon zest on the uncooked treats.

Bake 25 to 35 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place them on a rack to cool.

Tip: Keep a few treats in an air-tight container and freeze the remainder for later.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Preheat a frying pan on medium heat for three minutes. Add coconut oil. Coat the pan evenly.

Preheat oven to 275° F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Add hamburger and stir fry until almost fully cooked. Add peppers, kale and figs to the meat. Continue to stir fry until the kale is reduced.

Place cooled chicken and rice mixture in a food processor or blender. Purée until smooth.

Allow mixture to cool. Then, place mixture into a food processor or blender and purée until smooth.

Place the purée in a large bowl.

Add the coconut flour and flax seed; mix well.

Combine the blended mixture and quinoa flour. Mix well.

Form into 3-inch flat discs and place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake 50 to 60 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place them on a rack to cool.

Form into 3-inch flat discs. Place on a lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.

Bake 25 to 35 minutes or until golden on the bottom. Remove cookies and place on rack to cool.

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Recipe courtesy of Tonya Wilhelm

Meatball Bites Yields: Approximately 24 cookies 1 Tbsp virgin coconut oil 10 oz grass-fed hamburger, 85 percent lean 4 oz green pepper, washed, seeded, cut in bite-size pieces 21/2 oz kale, washed 3 figs, stems removed 1 cup quinoa flour

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic and non-GMO (genetically modified) ingredients whenever possible.

Cheesy Crunchies 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 /4 cup cornmeal 1 /2 cup cheese (any grated cheese) 1 egg 1¾ cup filtered water 1 /2 cup fine-grated Parmesan cheese

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Mix all ingredients except Parmesan.

Knead dough until thoroughly mixed.

Cool and place in an airtight container.

Recipe courtesy of Livia J. Washburn, Trick or Deadly Treat

Roll dough into shapes (like sticks or squares) or use cookie cutter. Roll shapes in the Parmesan. Dehydrate in a dehydrator at 155° F approximately 4 to 6 hours or until dry. For cats, make much smaller shapes.

Recipe courtesy of Chef Stephanie Raya, Excalibur Dehydrator

Kitty Patties Yields: 8 small patties

Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Dog Biscuits Yields: 36 biscuits

Roxanne’s Beef Jerky Strips for Dogs 3 cups ground lean grass-fed beef 1 cup flour 2 tsp brewer’s yeast 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, drained Combine ingredients in medium bowl and mix thoroughly. Spread on a nonstick 1/8-inch-thick drying sheet.

Dry at 155° F until thoroughly dry and then cut into strips.

Recipe courtesy of Chef Stephanie Raya, Excalibur Dehydrator

/2 lb grass-fed, lean ground beef /2 lb lean ground turkey 4 Tbsp low-salt chicken stock 4 eggs 1 /2 cup oatmeal or 1 packet instant oatmeal 1

1 sweet potato, boiled or baked 1 /4 cup peanut butter, low in fat, sugar and salt 1 egg 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 Tbsp coconut oil 1 tsp cinnamon, ground 11/2 cups organic old-fashioned oats (aka rolled oats) Boil or bake sweet potato. Allow to cool before removing the peel if baked.

Heat oven to 350° F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Use a mixer to blend all ingredients together except the oatmeal. Once combined, fold in oats with a spoon.

If dough is too wet, add more flour.

Roll out cookie dough to ¼-inch-thick sheet and cut with any shaped cookie cutter. Fill cookie sheets.

Bake 35 to 40 minutes, until biscuits are hard to the touch.

1

Mix meat and broth, and then add oatmeal and egg.

Form into 8 small patties.

Broil one or two at a time, leaving them fairly rare.

Allow to cool, and then serve. They’ll keep in the refrigerator up to three days if the meat is fresh.

Freeze the other patties until ready to use, good for up to four months.

Recipe courtesy of Janet Cantrell, Fat Cat at Large

Go Go Balls Yields: 30 to 32 balls /2 cup water-packed tuna fish or salmon (from a BPA-free pouch) 4 oz light cream cheese 2 Tbsp dried catnip (or more to taste)

1

Drain the fish. If using salmon, remove the skin and bones.

Using a fork, flake the fish into a bowl and add the remaining ingredients.

Form small, marble-sized balls by hand and store refrigerated in an airtight container.

Recipe courtesy of Janet Cantrell, Fat Cat Spreads Out 62

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inspiration

RECIPE FOR A HAPPY NEW YEAR Fail-Proof Ingredients for a Glorious 2016

Take 12 whole months.

Clean them thoroughly of all bitterness, hate and jealousy.

Make them just as fresh and clean as possible.

Cut each month into 28, 30 or 31 different parts, but don’t make up the whole batch at once.

Prepare one day at a time with these ingredients: Mix well into each day one part each of faith, patience, courage and work.

Also add to each day one part of hope, faithfulness, generosity and kindness.

Blend with one part prayer, one part meditation and one good deed.

Season the whole with a dash of good spirits, a sprinkle of fun, a pinch of play and a cupful of good humor.

Pour all of this into a vessel of love.

Cook thoroughly over radiant joy, garnish with a smile and serve with quietness, unselfishness and cheerfulness.

You’re bound to have a happy new year. ~ Author Unknown natural awakenings

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calendarofevents TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 Living Well Series: Nutrition and the Gut-Brain Connection – 6-7pm. Presented by Dee Harris, a registered, licensed and certified dietitian and nutritionist. New research shows a strong link between the gastrointestinal system, the immune system and communication with the brain. Free. Hosted at iBERIA Bank, Coconut Point, 23250 Via Villagio, Estero. RSVP: LivingWell Chiropractic: 498-2225.

LivingWellFL.com.

Crystal Bowl Meditation – 6:30pm. With Nicole Sandhu. Enjoy the benefits of sound vibration healing. Relax and heal from the vibrations of the seven bowls which help to heal and open one’s heart, helping to align self to its higher purpose. $10. Ages 12 and up. The Mystical Moon Bonita, 8951 SE Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 255. RSVP: 301-0655.

TheMysticalMoon.com.

Sacred Sounds/Music of Spheres – 6:30pm.

With Dana House. Connect to your initiating spark that shines through the holistic resonance of the invocative gongs and grace-filled bowls using 3-D mandalas and ancient aromatic blends. Bring pillow, blanket, mat. $20. Peaceful Escapes, 601 E Elkcam Cir, B-3, Marco Island. 571-5234. QuantumHealingSacredSound.com.

Complimentary Meditation – 7-8pm. Jennifer Stevens guides students through an hour of meditation and provides an opportunity to explore new ways to begin or deepen a meditation practice in a comfortable and supportive environment. Free. 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. Info: 598-1938 or greenmonkey. com/naples-schedule.

Release stress of the holidays and a year settling down. Laughter yoga with Jill Emmerich, gentle yoga with Michelle Falco, crystal bowls with William Ward and integrative relaxation with Peggy Sealfon. $30; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210. MonarchWellness.net.

Guided Meditation – 7pm. Let the stress of the season melt away with a guided meditation. The group will decide which ones to use. Free. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3

Explore Your Past to Empower Your Present – 7-9pm. An evening of past-life regression with Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist Carolyn Beauchamp.

In this exploratory workshop, participants will be taken through a hypnotic relaxation technique to explore past-life memories. Bring yoga mat and small pillow. $15. Unity Church of Bonita Springs, 28285 Imperial Pkwy. RSVP required: 300-1633 or CarolynBeauchamp@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Creating a Healthier You – 6:30-7:30pm. With Jennifer Gray and Laurie Orlando. An informative session about health coaching. Learn how personalized coaching can help identify and achieve all your healthy lifestyle goals. Free. 6200 Trail Blvd N, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey.com/naples-schedule.

Holiday De-Stress – 6:30-8:30pm. Soothe your soul, center your mind and connect to your heart.

Reiki Level I – 2pm. Learn hands-on healing method of universal life force energies. Information will be given on the chakras, aura, connecting to energies and crystal works. Attunement and certification upon completion. $50. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

Psychic Fair – 6-9pm. Infinite Stones, 12911 Metro Pkwy, Ft Myers. 561-1981. InfiniteStonesLLC.com.

See ad, page 69.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 Modular 200-Hour Teacher Training – Dec 4-6.

With Debi Grilo. This system offers the flexibility to complete the 200-hour training at each student’s own pace and the opportunity to learn with multiple world-class teachers during six weekend modules.

This month’s focus is on asana. greenmonkey yoga, 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. 598-1938. Info: greenmonkey.com/200hrTeacherTraining.

Customer Appreciation Day – 10am-5pm. Vendors, raffles, discounts and free samples. Monthly blood cell analysis also available by appointment.

For Goodness Sake, 9118 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 992-5838.

Reiki Level I – 7pm. Learn hands-on healing method of universal life force energies. Information will be given on the chakras, aura, connecting to energies and crystal works. Attunement and certification upon completion. $50. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

StorySlam Naples – 7-9pm. An evening of laughter and tears, joy and sadness, fun and excitement with Dr Joel Ying and local storytellers. Experience the range of power of storytelling to entertain, captivate and connect. Free. 2335 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 206, Naples. RSVP: StorySlamNaples.EventBrite.com.

Movement and Breath for Labor Workshop – 6-7:30pm. With Cheryl Bernardi, LMT, birth doula.

Experience hands-on practical labor run-through. Practice movement, breathing, self-hypnosis techniques for pain management. Effective advice for pushing phase. $25/prepay or $30/door. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Naples. Preregister: 248-7931 or LifeBehold@gmail.com. LifeBehold.com.

Energy Talks: Are you Listening? – 7:30pm. An interactive, transformative program focused on stepping into your knowing and innate awareness. $20.

Center of Eternal Light, 260 Professional Place, N Ft Myers. RSVP: 599-4700.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Guided Nature Walk – 8am. See birds in native vegetation with experienced bird patrol guides pointing out the many species. Wear comfortable shoes and outdoor wear. Bring water, sunscreen and binoculars. Free with paid parking. Lakes Re-

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gional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Ft Myers. 533-7580.

BirdPatrol.org.

Reiki Level I Intensive – 8:30am-8pm. With Silvia Casabianca, Reiki master. Become a Reiki practitioner. Heal self, support others. History, principles, energetic anatomy, healing vs curing, hand positions, attunements. $175. 12 Fl CEUs, nurses, MHC, LMTs, midwives, nutritionists, CSWs, MFTs. 9200 Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 204, Bonita Springs. Preregister: 948-9444. EyesWideOpenCenter.com.

Really, Really Free Market – 10am-2pm. 1st Sat. Potluck of reusable items. No money, barter or trade; everything is free. Fleischmann Park, Naples.

Facebook page: Naples Really Really Free Market.

Great Outdoor Adventure Day – 10am-3pm.

Food touch tanks, children’s activities, ranger-led

programs. Kayak tours, walking nature tours, bike tours, geo-caching, fishing clinics and more. Exhibitors include local environmental organizations, outdoor equipment and healthy lifestyle vendors.

Parking fee: $8/up to eight passengers; $4/single occupant; $2/pedestrian or bicyclist. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Ft Myers. 463-4588.

FloridaStateParks.org/LoversKey. See news brief, page 13.

Live Blood Cell Analysis – 10am-5pm. With Brandi Stewart. Utilizing one drop of blood, see 42 anomalies of your health relating to digestive dysfunction, liver stress, toxicity, inflammation markers, yeast imbalances, lymphocytes, health of white and red blood cells and more. $50 includes DVD and takehome information. For Goodness Sake, 7211 Radio Rd, Naples. RSVP: 353-7778.

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Reiki Level II – 11am-5pm. With Lenka Spiska.

Happehatchee Center, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero.

992-5455. Happehatchee.org.

Reiki II Attunement – 1-6pm. With Pam Bzoch.

Initiates will be attuned to Reiki level two, which will prepare them to receive and channel higher energy. Learn how to send long-distance healing and the names and forms of three power Reiki symbols to enhance healing. $99/attunement, $50/audit. The Mystical Moon Bonita, 8951 SE Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 255. RSVP: 301-0655. TheMysticalMoon.com.

Yoga for Golfers – 1:30-3pm. With Lenore Bishop.

Learn an effective and accessible yoga practice targeted for a golfer’s unique needs. Learn movements to use before, during and after each golf swing to create optimal performance on the course. $25; $5 off by 12/4. greenmonkey yoga, 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey.com/ naples-schedule.

Frankincense and Myrrh – 2pm. Learn the history and uses through the ages of frankincense and myrrh.

Learn the spiritual application of these wonderful resins for the holidays and other times, as well. Free.

The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

BYOB Paint Session – 3pm. Customize one of our classic beach signs with colors and places to make it your own. BYOB (beer/wine only) or try something from the wine bar and craft beer selection. $36 includes supplies. 15250 S Tamiami Tr, Ste 109, Ft Myers. RSVP: 288-6953 or VinosPicasso.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 Crystal Bowl Meditation – 10am & 1pm. With Cathy Blair. Discover and align to all of your multidimensional aspects to become who you’re meant to be. Let the loving harmonics of the crystal singing bowls expand your soul into your new light codes to radiate more light from your heart center. Bring pillow, mat and blanket. $10. Winterview Ct, 2960 Immokalee Rd, Ste 3, Naples. 398-3953.

Magic Bus Ride – 10-11:30am. With Jamie Shane.

Utilizing pranayama and light kundalini-style movements, this workshop will help create a mind-space of exploration and expansion. Donuts will be served after class. $20. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 213-9276. BKSYogaStudio.com.

Yoga for Holiday Stress – Noon-5pm. Gentle VivaRelease class, followed by a mindful eating exercise and wholesome vegetarian lunch. Following lunch a brief discussion of current research regarding the real damage that stress and trauma inflict on the nervous system. Concludes with a full yoga nidra practice. $45/in advance; $50/day of event. Vivasana’s 3+ acre facility, Naples. Register: 444-8160 or Vivasana.net.

Intro to Wicca – 2pm. In this weekly progressive class, learn what Wicca is, concept of deity, altars, holidays, magick and more. Second class of new series; not too late. Free. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 The Poison in Your Teeth Book Giveaway – 9:30am-5pm. Dr Mark Corke will distribute the book, The Poison in Your Teeth, by Dr Tom McGuire. Call the office for a tour or with questions on holistic care. Laser Dentistry, 1550 Matthew Dr, Ft Myers. 936-5442. FortMyersLaserDentist.com.

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Manuka Honey is gathered in the wild back country of New Zealand from the native Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). The bees don’t use the pollen from a variety of other flowers or plants, so the content of the honey is very consistent. A 2013 study in the European Journal of Medical Research used Active Manuka Honey under dressings on postoperative wounds for an 85 percent success rate in clearing up infections, compared with 50 percent for normal antibiotic creams.

Ultimate Retreat in Paradise – Dec 7-10. 11am2pm. Experience Deepak Chopra’s signature course in ayurveda based on Perfect Health. Discover your unique body type and learn healing modalities for all the senses. $475 includes course and full enjoyment of the Resort. Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Dr, Naples. 609-545-9642. Eternity-Yoga. com. See news brief, page 10.

4, Naples. 596-9017. Info@GenesisNonGMO.com.

Mindful Parents – 6:30-8:30pm. With Jill Emmerich. Monthly workshop for parents of kids of all ages and levels of ability to come together, discuss challenges, problem solve difficult situations, support and teach each other. $30/drop-in, $50/couple; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples 325-9210. MonarchWellness.net.

Lunch & Learn: Making Stress Work for You – Noon-1pm. With Carol Marlow. Stress is an inevitable and integral part of life. It can provide positive change or hinder productivity and destroy relationships. Free. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Preregister: 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com.

Baby Wearing 101 – 5-6pm. This demo is an introduction into what baby wearing is and how to do it.

Covering everything from baby wraps for newborns to carriers designed to help wear your toddler. $5 which is returned as a credit for EcoBaby and Home Store. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Rd, Ste 2, Naples. 594-0400. Register at EcoBaby: 433-2229.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 Songwriters at Sunset Concert – 3:30-5:30pm.

Outdoor concert of original music performed by local musicians Boyd Baker, Bob Covington and Bob Williams. Free with paid entry into the park; $8 per vehicle. Refreshments available by donation.

Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Ft Myers Beach. 463-4588. See news brief, page 13.

Crystal Bowl Meditation – 6:30pm. With Nicole Sandhu. Enjoy the benefits of sound vibration healing. Relax and heal from the vibrations of the seven bowls which helps to heal and open one’s heart, helping to align self to its higher purpose. $10. Ages 12 and up. The Mystical Moon Ft Myers, 8890 Salrose Ln, Ste 107. RSVP: 939-3339.

TheMysticalMoon.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10

community yoga class. Free. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Alzheimer’s -The Master Thief: Ways to Protect Yourself and Your Memories – 6:30pm. With Deborah J Post, ARNP. Learn the causes and how to protect yourself and those you love. New research gives more understanding of why and how.

Knowledge is power over this devastating disease.

Food & Thought Café, 2132 Tamiami Tr N, Naples.

434-0469. DebPost.com.

How Vibrations and Energy Patterns in Food Affect Your Body – 6:30pm. With Dr Gary Gendron, of Nutrition Specialists of Florida. Free. 28315 S Tamiami Tr, Ste 101, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 9471177. DoctorGendron.com. See ad, page 2.

Product Sampling: Plexus Slim – 6:30pm. Learn how Plexus Slim can help blood sugar issues, sugar cravings, fatigue, chronic inflammation, Candida issues. Genesis Non GMO Vitamins, 877 91st Ave, Ste

Shangri-La Spa Open House – Dec 10-11.10:30am3pm. Tour the new organic spa that includes infrared or traditional sauna, steam room, facial room and garden solarium. An extensive menu of massage and healing modalities will be available starting Dec 15. A holistic coach is available to discover ways to improve your health. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com. See ad on page 53 and news brief on page 11.

Tarot Part I – 2pm. Learn the meanings of the cards and how to utilize this wonderful tool. A Rider Waite deck is required. $30. Part II on 12/17.

The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

That Sugar Film Documentary – 6pm. A documentary about the effects of sugar on health and where sugars are hiding in foods. Free showing. Genesis Non GMO Vitamins, 877 91st Ave, Ste 4, Naples.

596-9017. Info@GenesisNonGMO.com.

Waldorf Inspired Cooperative Parent Meeting – 6-7pm. Meet with a group of parents and teachers collectively coming together to start a Waldorf-inspired cooperative school in SWFL. Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd W, Naples. Info:

Tarot Part I – 7pm. Learn the meanings of the cards and how to utilize this wonderful tool. A Rider Waite deck is required. $30. Part II on 12/15.

The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

Explore Your Past to Empower Your Present – 7-9pm. An evening of past-life regression with Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist Carolyn Beauchamp.

In this exploratory workshop, participants will be taken through a hypnotic relaxation technique to explore past-life memories. Bring yoga mat and small pillow. $15. Unity Church of Bonita Springs, 28285 Imperial Pkwy. RSVP required: 300-1633 or CarolynBeauchamp@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Lifelong Lecture and Tour: Fragrance in the Garden – 10am-noon. With Liz Chehayl, Naples Botanical Garden curator of collections. $20/nonmembers, $15/members. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 643-7275. NaplesGarden.org.

Essential Oils Class – 6-7pm. Essential Oils and the Bible. Free. Alternative Natural Healthcare, 16517 Vanderbilt Dr, Ste 3, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 947-6234.

Angel Art Opening and Drumming Circle – 6-9pm. Featuring the fine art works of Levi Hayes and Bonnie Hawley. Live music by Alchemie, live street chalk art by Jane Portaluppi Durand, trunk jewelry show, community drumming circle and

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WaldorfSchoolOfNaples.com.

Tea and Tales – 6-8pm. Enjoy food and high tea with seasonal storytelling by Dr Joel Ying, Mary Lou Williams, Rhonda Brazina and Tashahara Jallad. $28/person. Brambles English Tea Room, 304 Fifth Ave S, Ste 102, Naples. RSVP required: 262-7894.

BramblesTeaRoomNaples.com.

New Moon Meditation – 7-8pm. With Marc Wagner. The new moon marks a time for new beginnings and cycles of life. Participants will feel refreshed and enjoy an improved sense of well-being as the singing bowls and their vibrations help accelerate new potential. $25; $5 off by 12/9. greenmonkey yoga, 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey. com/naples-schedule.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Breath of Life/Music of the Spheres – 6:30pm. With Dana House and Linda. Conscious connective breathing, Reiki attunements, percussive music and the sounds of gongs and bowls. Bring pillow, blanket and mat. $25. Anahata, 1065 5th Ave N, Naples. RSVP: 571-5234. QuantumHealing-SacredSound.com.

New Moon Celebration – 7pm. With Cathy Blair.

Set an intention for the new you, envision for you,

Mother Earth and all of humanity. Let the singing bowls carry your request up into the universe.

Bring beach chair and blanket. $25. Salt Cave, 4962 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 403-9170.

Psychic Development – 7pm. With Laurie Barraco.

Learn how to use your natural psychic abilities the way spirit intended. Tools of divination and how to use them will be discussed. Topic: Telepathy. $20.

The Mystical Moon Ft Myers, 8890 Salrose Lane, Ste 107. RSVP: 939-3339. TheMysticalMoon.com.

Sèance – 8pm. Sèance on the night between the living and those that are no longer in body. Call in positive loved ones who have crossed over.

Limited seating. No admittance after 8:05pm. $40.

The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 Lifelong Learning Tour: Exploring the Birds of the Garden – 7:30-10am. With Bill Overton. $20/ nonmembers, $15/members. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 643-7275.

NaplesGarden.org.

Lee Heart Walk – 8am. Help raise awareness and funds to fight heart disease and stroke and log miles for the Healthy Lee Million Mile Movement. Non-

competitive, three-mile walk. Kids zone, water stations for leashed pets, sponsor booths and more. No registration fee; donations encouraged. Centennial Park, 2000 W First St, Ft Myers. Info: 495-4901.

Register: HealthyLee.com/Million-Mile-Movement.

Making Stress Work for You Workshop – 9am-noon. With Carol Marlow. Attendees will learn to recognize symptoms and responses to distress, identify their primary stressors and learn coping techniques, practice stress reduction strategies and regain meaning, balance and health in their life. $50; Stress Assessment booklet, $15 included; optional lunch/$14. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs.

Preregister: 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Inner Spa Day for the Mind – 9:15-11:15am.

Laughter yoga with Jill Emmerich followed by meditation with Michelle Falco. Releasing and rejuvenating for de-stress, emotional healing, wellbeing maintenance and mindful transformation. $25; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210. MonarchWellness.net.

Beautiful Birds of Bunche Beach – 10am. See migrant and resident waders and shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors and warblers with a bird patrol guide. Bring binoculars, sunscreen, water shoes and drinking water. Free with parking fee; $2/per hr. Meet on the beach, 18201 John Morris Rd, Ft Myers Beach.

707-3015. BirdPatrol.org.

Psychic Faire – 10am-5pm. Choose from a list of readers and healers offering many services including readings, astrology, mediumship, tarot, palm readings, Reiki, biofeedback, pet communication. $25/20 minutes. The Mystical Moon Ft Myers, 8890 Salrose Lane, Ste 107. RSVP: 939-3339.

TheMysticalMoon.com.

Thyroid Seminar – 10:30am. With Dr Robert Gilliland, DC. Fatigue, unexpected weight gain, thinning hair, always feeling cold, anxiety, night sweats, morning headaches, brittle nails, brain fog? Discover natural solutions to correct thyroid problems, specific foods to avoid, why you feel lousy taking thyroid hormones and more. 27499 Riverview Ctr Blvd, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 4443106. See ad, page 21.

Restorative Yoga and Crystal Bowl Sound Bath – 11:30-1:30pm. With Susan Weinman. Immerse within soothing, deeply nourishing and healing sound vibrations resonating from crystal bowls while engaged in relaxing, restorative yoga postures. $25. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Tr N, Naples.

213-9276. BKSYogaStudio.com.

ABCs of Yoga – 1-3pm. With Barbara Stratton.

This all beginner’s class is a comfortable, safe and stress-free way to take the mystery out of yoga for first-time students of all fitness levels. $10. 1800 Tamiami Tr E, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey. com/naples-south-schedule.

Keys to Spiritual Worlds Workshop – 1-3pm.

Discover keys to unlock the “inner” dimensions of dreams, past lives, soul travel and spiritual experiences that seem to defy explanation in this interactive workshop. Eckankar Center of Southwest Florida, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 155, Ft Myers.

482-4034. Facebook.com/EckankarInFortMyers.

See ad on page 29 and news brief on page 16.

Pendulum Workshop – 2pm. Learn how to choose, cleanse and program your pendulum. Also learn how to use your pendulum for divination, to find lost objects, dowse and test energy fields and chakras. Free,

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includes charts. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

Crystal Bowl Meditation – 2-3pm. With Cathy Blair. Let waves of soothing light and sound balance and center you during this holiday season. Rejoice in the sense of peace, purpose and renewal of spirit.

Bring a mat, pillow and blanket. $20. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 213-9276.

BKSYogaStudio.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Eckankar Worship Service – 11am. Topic: Opening Doors to Spiritual Freedom with the Creative Power of Soul. Eckankar Center of Southwest Florida, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 155, Ft Myers. 482-4034.

Kundalini Yoga Gong Bath – 2-4pm. With DameDè. A light Kundalini class consisting of physical warm-ups, kriya and mantra followed by the sound therapy of the gong. $25. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 213-9276.

BKSYogaStudio.com.

28th Annual Candle Lighting and Giving Tree – 5:30pm, potluck; 6:45pm, ceremony. With Compassionate Friends Southwest Florida Chapter. Come together in remembrance of our precious children, grandchildren, siblings this holiday season. Bring your child’s favorite dish and a wrapped gift tagged with the appropriate sex and age of the gift. Bring a picture to display during the ceremony. Slide show photos must be emailed by 12/1. St John the Evangelist, 625 111th Ave N, Naples. RSVP required: swflcf@live.com.

Soaring Sacred Sounds – 6:30pm. With Dana House. Evoke divine will through the empowering gongs and unconditional love through the gentle

bowls and ancient aromatic blends for helping, healing and transformation personal and planetary.

Bring musical creative expression, mat, pillow, blanket. $15. Arthur Murray, 3339 Tamiami Trl N, Naples. RSVP: 571-5234. QuantumHealingSacredSound.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 14 Lunch & Learn: Letting Go of Clutter – Noon-1pm.

With Carol Marlow. For those who consider themselves organizationally challenged and find it difficult to let go of things, this upcoming workshop from a recovering junkie will get you started. Free. ShangriLa Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs.

Preregister: 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 Enneagram Evening – 6-8pm. An ancient Sufi teaching that describes nine different personality types and their interrelationships. Originated in Jesuit monasteries so people would know how to get along. Includes a video and some experiential movement. Insights into your personality and life. $55. Three CEUs Fl MTs. Naples. Register: Alvina: 732-266-5276.

Crystal Bowl Meditation – 6:30pm. With Nicole Sandhu. Enjoy the benefits of sound vibration healing. Relax and heal from the vibrations of the seven bowls which help to heal and open one’s heart, helping to align self to its higher purpose. $10. Ages 12 and up. The Mystical Moon Bonita, 8951 SE Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 255. RSVP: 301-0655.

TheMysticalMoon.com.

Crystal Bowl Celebration – 7pm. With Cathy Blair.

Move into higher states of joy and peace thru the loving harmonics of the singing bowls. Open your

heart to receive more love. Bring mat, pillow and blanket. $20. Peaceful Escapes, 601 E Elkcam Cir, Marco. 398-3953.

Explore Your Past to Empower Your Present – 7-9pm. An evening of past-life regression with Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist Carolyn Beauchamp.

In this exploratory workshop, participants will be taken through a hypnotic relaxation technique to explore past-life memories. Bring yoga mat and small pillow. $15. Unity Church of Bonita Springs, 28285 Imperial Pkwy. RSVP required: 300-1633 or CarolynBeauchamp@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Community Hu Sing – 6pm. Eckankar Center of Southwest Florida, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 155, Ft Myers. 482-4034.

Night Lights in the Garden – Dec 16-23.

6-9pm. Twinkling lights, glowing orbs and sparkling decor illuminate the gardens. Each evening includes holiday musical performances, family activities and festive sweets and treats, plus enchanting illumination scenes. Adults: $17/nonmember, $9/members; children: $7/nonmembers, $5/members ages four-14, three and under free.

Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 643-7275. Advanced tickets required: NaplesGarden.org. See ad on page 33 and news brief on page 14.

Nutrition Class – 7-8:30pm. Nutrition for pregnancy, lactation, postpartum and family. Pregnant moms receive a free gift. Free. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Rd, Ste 2, Naples. 5940400. Register: FBCNaples@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 MoonFaire 2015 – Dec 17-20. A tribal consciousness celebration of love, unity and hope. A worldclass fusion of sultry belly dance, empowering spirituality, holistic health, conservation and live musical expression for the whole family. SummerLand Ranch, 27501 Kent Rd, Bonita Springs.

MoonFaire.com.

Reiki Circle – 7-8:30pm. With Reiki master Pam Bzoch, owner of Saith Seren. The group will focus on opening and clearing one of the chakras. Receive healing energy for self or send to a loved one. $20. ShangriLa Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs.

Preregister: 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

The Poison in Your Teeth Book Giveaway – 8am5pm. Dr Mark Corke will distribute the book, The Poison in Your Teeth, by Dr Tom McGuire. Call the office for a tour or with questions on holistic care.

Laser Dentistry, 1550 Matthew Dr, Ft Myers. 9365442. FortMyersLaserDentist.com.

Introduction to Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) – 5:30-6:30pm. Introduction to internationally acclaimed eight-week stress-reduction course using mindfulness meditation, gentle yoga and scientific research pioneered by Dr Jon KabatZinn at U Mass. Free. Integrative Mindfulness, The Fountains Professional Park, 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Ste 102, Bonita Springs. 280-9095. IntegrativeMindfulness.net.

Voices of Unity Choir Christmas Concert – 7pm.

Come hear the joyful music of the season. Santa will make a special appearance; bring the whole family to this happy, magical and wonderful event.

Unity of Naples, 2000 Unity Way. 775-3009.

NaplesUnity.org.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Introduction to Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) – 10-11am. Introduction to internationally acclaimed eight-week stress-reduction course using mindfulness meditation, gentle yoga and scientific research pioneered by Dr Jon KabatZinn at U Mass. Free. Integrative Mindfulness, The Fountains Professional Park, 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Ste 102, Bonita Springs. 280-9095. IntegrativeMindfulness.net.

Reiki Healing Circle – 7pm. Let the power of Reiki help promote healing on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. Free. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

Connect to the Healer Within –7-9pm. With Dan Gorny. Firefly Within hosts an evening of learning, conversation and sharing of Reiki energy to awaken and connect to the healer within. $11 donation. Healing Light Center, 4810 Hickory Wood Dr, Naples.

980-3257. FireflyWithin.com.

Sacred Sound/Sacred Space – 7-9pm. With Dana House. Connect to the divine spark within through the energies of the grace-filled gongs and the blissful bowls using 3-D mandalas and ancient aromatic blends to enhance your powers of creative expression and manifest your greatest potential. Bring mat, pillow, and blanket. $20.

Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 949-0749. QuantumHealingSacredSound.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 Letting Go of Clutter – 9am-noon. With Carol Marlow. Attendees will learn to identify the reasons

why they endure clutter, create clutter-free zones, establish systems to eliminate clutter and manage mental clutter. $50; Stress Assessment booklet, $15 included; optional lunch/$14. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Preregister: 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Meditation, Intuition and Healing Workshop – 10am-4pm. With Dona Matera, MA. Enjoy dialog, practice of meditation and intuition methods, journaling, exchanging healing and sharing wisdom and guidance received. $114/includes organic lunch. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Preregistration required: 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com.

Anastasia System of Psychic Development Level VI – 10am-5pm. With Laurie Barraco. Continue the work done in parts one-five with discussions and exercises focused on levels of spirit, planes of consciousness, clearing spirit, healing spirit, spirit attachment and soul retrieval. Prerequisite: Psychic Development One. $250. The Mystical Moon Bonita, 8951 SE Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 255. RSVP: 301-0655. TheMysticalMoon.com.

Psychic Fair – 11am-4pm. Get a spiritual “tune-up” with gifted readers and healers. Psychic readings, mediums, healers, tarot readings, jewelry, books, candles, sage, crystals, incense, angels. $25/25 minutes. Center of Eternal Light, 260 Professional Pl, N Ft Myers. 599-4700. CenterOfEternalLight.com.

Crystal and Gemstones Workshop – 2pm. Learn how to choose, cleanse and work with crystals and gemstones. Crystal grids will be demonstrated using the “flower of life” pattern also known as sacred geometry. Free. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

End of Year Potluck – 6:30-8:30pm. Gather to say

adieu to 2015 meaningfully. Bring a friend or relative. Share highlights of 2015. Music, dance, paint, give Reiki, eat healthy refreshments. Family friendly.

9200 Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 204, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 948-9444. EyesWideOpenCenter.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 Winter Solstice Crystal Bowl Sound Bathe – 7:30pm. With Cathy Blair. Receive the blessings of divine wisdom within the solstice portal of expansion. Attune your blueprint and pineal gland to the frequencies through the waves of diamond light emanating from the singing bowls. Deepen your journey within. Bring beach chair and blanket or mat. $30. Salt Cave, 4962 Tamiami Tr N, Naples.

398-3953. RSVP: 398-3953.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22 Crystal Bowl Meditation – 6:30pm. With Nicole Sandhu. Enjoy the benefits of sound vibration healing. Relax and heal from the vibrations of the seven bowls which helps to heal and open one’s heart, helping to align self to its higher purpose. $10. Ages 12 and up. The Mystical Moon Ft Myers, 8890 Salrose Ln, Ste 107. RSVP: 939-3339.

TheMysticalMoon.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23 Full Moon/Sunset/Bird Rookery Kayak Tour – 3:15-6:15pm. With GAEA guides. Paddle on the Caloosahatchee River and on wild creeks with thousands of birds preparing to roost for the night.

Watch the sunset and moonrise. $40 includes equipment and a Florida master naturalist guide. Caloosahatchee River near Ft Myers. RSVP: 694-5513.

GAEAGuides.com.

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Tea Leaf Reading: The Art of Tasseography – 7pm.

Learn how to read the tea leaves for self and others.

Receive a tea leaf reading during class. A tea party with extras. $30 includes materials. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. RSVP: 939-2769.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 Restore and Renew – 1-3pm With Kim Clayton and Addy Huff. Ease into the New Year and enjoy a blissfully relaxing restorative yoga practice while a massage therapist assists in releasing stress and tension from the body in this deeply therapeutic workshop. $45/drop-in; $5 off by 12/26. greenmonkey yoga, 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Services – 4pm & 6pm. Celebrate this magical night at these services that are family oriented and include a children’s lesson. The nursery will open for infants to age three during the 4pm service. Unity of Naples, 2000 Unity Way. 775-3009. NaplesUnity.org.

Bat Kayak Tour – 4-7pm. Visit a lovely creek in the wilderness; part of an estuary system with many plants and animals. At dusk see the bats come out of their hiding places. Learn about these very interesting, ancient and important creatures from a certified Florida master naturalist guide. $40.

GAEA Guides, North Ft Myers. RSVP: 694-5513.

GAEAGuides.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25 Heated Holiday Power Vinyasa – 11am-12:15pm.

With Gus Kominos. After all the presents are unwrapped, come and get an extra dose of ‘presence’ in this heated holiday power vinyasa class. $20/drop-in or regular class packages apply. greenmonkey yoga, 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey. com/naples-schedule.

Full Moon Celebration – 4:45pm. With Cathy Blair. Honor the moon, Mother Earth and the divine creator. Heal the waters of the planet. Bring beach chair or towel. Love offering going to wildlife rescue. Horizon Way public beach on Gulf Shore Blvd N off Park Shore Dr, Naples. 398-3953.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26 Psychic Faire – 10am-4pm. Choose from an assortment of well-established and gifted psychics and healers. Tarot readers, soul chart progression, astrology, oracle card reader, energy matrix healer, rune caster, medium, chakra cleansing and align-

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29 Breastfeeding Class – 6:30-8:30pm. Learn how to successfully breastfeed your newborn baby, use breast pumps and transition to returning to work while breastfeeding. Benefits of breastfeeding, techniques for positioning and latching-on, timing and frequency of feeds will be discussed. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Rd, Ste 2, Naples. 5940400. Info/register: NaplesBirthCenter.com. ment and shamanic journeys. $25/25 minutes. The Labyrinth, 12995 S Cleveland Ave, Ste 108, Ft Myers. 939-2769.

Psychic Faire – 10am-5pm. Choose from a list of readers and healers offering many services including readings, astrology, mediumship, tarot, palm readings, Reiki, biofeedback, pet communication. $25/20 minutes. The Mystical Moon Bonita, 8951 SE Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 255. RSVP: 301-0655.

TheMysticalMoon.com.

Night Lights in the Garden – Dec 26-30. 6-9pm.

See Dec 16 listing. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 643-7275. Advanced tickets required: NaplesGarden.org. See ad on page 33 and news brief on page 14.

Full Moon Sacred Sounds: Honoring the Temple – 6:30pm. With Dana House. Experience the energy of vibrational awakening, cosmic connection. Sacred sounds of the empowering gongs and bowls accelerate energetic healing, spiritual awakenings and immersion into blissful remembrances of unity with all creation. $15. Anahata, 1065 5th Ave N, Naples. RSVP: 571-5234. QuantumHealingSacredSound.com.

Ecstatic Kirtan – 7:15-8:45pm. With Missy Balsam. An evening of connection, community building and heart-opening singing. No experience necessary. $15 love offering. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Ste 1 & 3, Naples. 272-6152.

HouseOfGaia.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30 BYOB New Year’s Celebration – 6:30pm. Bring in a picture (on paper or phone) of your favorite skyline of no more than five to seven buildings to paint on a vertical canvas. BYOB (beer/wine only) or try something from the wine bar and craft beer selection. $36 includes all supplies. 15250 S Tamiami Tr, Ste 109, Ft Myers. RSVP: 288-6953 or VinosPicasso. com. Pictures to: VinosPicassoFM@hotmail.com.

Crystal Bowl Celebration – 7pm. Release the past connections with the former paradigm. Set intentions for the new you to create in 2016. Let the singing bowls transform you beyond your present situations.

Bring beach chair or mat, pillow and blanket. Salt Cave, 4962 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 403-9170.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve Burning Bowl Ceremony – 5pm. A heartwarming, nondenominational service that provides the opportunity to write and release whatever you’re ready to give up, in-vision your upcoming New Year and write a gratitude letter to God for 2015. Unity of Naples, 2000 Unity Way. 775-3009. NaplesUnity.org.

plan ahead FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 Big Dave’s Polar Plunge – 9am. Event follows Dave Cranor’s 5K. Proceeds go to Drug Court Kids. First 100 participants donating $20 receive an event shirt. No wet suits allowed. Lowdermilk Park, entrance at North end of park, Naples. Big Dave: 435-0939. Register: GCRunner.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 My Yoga/My Home – 1-4pm. With Michelle Ploog.

Create your best year ever starting with your outer environment as a road map to your inner environment. Tap into the home within your heart during a

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45-minute yoga flow. Then, experience your world transformed by applying the principles of yoga to your home. 6200 Trail Blvd N, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey.com/naples-schedule.

200-1028. Facebook.com/3DayBodyCleanse. See ad on page 18 and news brief on page 16.

Night Lights in the Garden – Jan 2-3. 6-9pm.

See Dec 16 listing. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 643-7275. Advanced tickets required: NaplesGarden.org. See ad on page 33 and news brief on page 14.

Yoga Teacher Training – Feb 6-Apr 24. 8am-5pm, Sat & Sun. With Giselle Toner, E-RYT 500. Learn empowering skills and change the world with your knowledge. $6,587 paid in full or three payments of $2,500 over the course of three months. Power Fusion Yoga, W Crown Pointe Blvd, Naples. 609545-9642. PowerFusionYoga.com. See ad on page 26 and news brief on page 10.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training – Jan 8-May 29. 6-9pm, Fri; 10am-6pm, Sat & Sun. Meets every other weekend. This comprehensive training covers: yoga philosophy, alignment, chakras, anatomy and physiology, chanting, Sanskrit, assists and much more. $3,500; payment plans available. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Trl N, Ste 204, Naples. 6929747. LoveYogaCenter@aol.com. See ad, page 64.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13 Group Coaching Series – 5-6pm. Six-week series with Kristi Willems, Certified International Health Coach. Learn how to fuel your body and thrive without feeling deprived. Learn the habits to start the New Year off on a healthy note. $125 for the series by 1/12 or $25/drop-in. D-Signed Nutrition, 3532 Bonita Bay Blvd Ste 300, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 676-5249.

D-SignedNutrition.com. See news brief, page 10.

Simple Easy Every Day (SEED) Meditation Class – Jan 13- Feb 3. 6-7:30pm. Four-week series with certified meditation instructor Kathy Hurst.

Includes book and guided audio recordings. Integrative Mindfulness, The Fountains Professional Park, 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Ste 102, Bonita Springs.

580-7700. IntegrativeMindfulness.net.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14 28 Days to a New You – Jan 14-Feb 11. 7-8pm; weekly meetings. With Kim Clayton. This program will challenge participants to live to their fullest potential and awaken the sacred within their soul with joy and enthusiasm. Experience community and connection through yoga, meditation, acts of kindness, weekly meetings a balancing diet and more.

6200 Trail Blvd N, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey. com/naples-schedule.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 15 200-Hour Residential Yoga Teacher Training and Retreat – Jan 15-31. Psychologically informed, trauma-aware yoga teacher training. Includes daily

intense practicums in nature with yoga postures, breath work, meditation, guided relaxation, nada yoga, yoga nidra and more. $3,500/tuition, $300/registration, $150/materials. Partial tuition scholarships available. Naples. Register: 444-8160. Vivasana.net.

Nourishing Our Bodies Potluck and Lecture – 6:30pm. With internationally acclaimed speaker and award-winning author, Karen Ranzi, MA. Community potluck before the lecture. Bring a raw vegan organic dish to share with 12 people. Love donation. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Ste 1, Naples. 641-5559.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 16 You’ve Got Soul Mail: Creative Journaling for the Body, Mind and Spirit – 10am-noon. Saturdays thru Feb 6. With Susan Sholle-Martin. Learn to use creative and healing activities to create soul mail which helps develops confidence in accessing inner guidance and self-direction to create a plan for the New Year. $95/course; $30/supplies. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com. See news brief, page 11.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 24 Israel Yoga Retreat – Explore the beauty and rich culture of Israel with Kiersten Mooney. Delve deeper into your yoga in the spiritual epicenter of the world and enjoy exclusive tours to colorful markets and historical locations. Daily yoga and meditation.

Five- to seven-day options. greenmonkey.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29 Three-Day Body Cleanse and Lifestyle Retreat – Jan 29-31. Nutritional health screenings personalizes cleansing and build up formulas, monitored therapeutic hydrotherapy, health and cooking classes.

Individualized suggested follow up. Naples. 941-

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Jean Shinoda Bolen Event Fundraiser – Feb 1921. Compass for Activism on the Path with Heart.

Includes wine, tea and cheese reception. Lecture Friday night, Saturday workshop and lunch. Sunday temple Artemisia Healing Circle and light lunch (Bolen will not be present on Sun). Happehatchee, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. 992-5455. Happehatchee.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Mayhem and Bottle Rockets – 7-9pm. An evening of storytelling with Bil Lepp, King of the Tall Tale. International star of the storytelling world.

Featured at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, TN. Recipient of Storytelling Circle of Excellence Award. Five-time winner of the West Virginia’s Liars’ Contest. $15. Alliance For The Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers. Tickets: 939-2787. See ad, page 19.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Holistic Holiday at Sea – Feb 27-Mar 5. Experience seven nights on the MSC Divina, one of the mot ecologically friendly and elegant cruise liners on the seas. Bask in gracious Italian hospitality and service while enjoying inspiring lectures and vegan natural foods. Departs from Miami, FL. 877-8447977. HolisticHolidayAtSea.com. See ad, page 65.

TUESDAY, MAY 31 Interconnectedness: the Soul of Holistic Nursing – May 31-Jun 5. The American Holistic Nurses Association’s 36th annual conference. Learn about holistic nursing practice, education and research from various types of healthcare and nursing experts.

Workshops, speakers, networking and exhibitors.

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs. Register: ahna.org/conference/registration.

See ad on page 20 and news brief on page 17.

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daily

Aerial Yoga Pilates Reformer – 9am. With Patricia Wilborn. Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples. 290-7499.

Mindful Movement Qigong Yoga – 9:30-10:45am.

With Francis Reilly. Qigong, yoga, breath awareness and guided relaxation. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

David Essel Alive – Get inspired. Join the archived national radio show with guests like Deepak Chopra.

Tune in 24/7 at DavidEssel.com.

Yoga in Nature – Tue-Sun. Multilevel yoga classes mornings and evenings. $10/drop-in (cash/check).

Happehatchee Center, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero.

992-5455. Schedule: Happehatchee.org.

sunday Unity of Ft Myers – 9:15am & 11am services. With Rev Jim Rosemergy, minister. Susie Hulcher, music.

Youth ministry. Open to all. 11120 Ranchette Rd. 278-1511. UnityOfFortMyers.org.

Celebration Church Services – 9:30-10:30am. A church that meets outdoors, welcomes everyone and has a huge heart. Cambier Park, 580 8th St S, Naples. 649-1588.

Church of Spiritual Light – 9:45-11am. Sunday service. Spiritual connection, meditation, ritual, prayer and song. 1939 Park Meadows Dr, Ste 1, Ft Myers. 560-6314. ChurchOfSpiritualLight.org.

Unity of Bonita Springs Sunday Service – 10am.

With Rev Phil Schlaefer, music by Jerry Stawski.

Inspiring lesson, music and meditation. 28285 Imperial Pkwy. 947-3100.

Unity of Naples – 10am. Service and Sunday school conducted in open, accepting and empowering environment. Children deepen their relationship with God. Nursery care provided. Naples. 775-3009.

NaplesUnity.org.

Silent Meditation – 10-11am. Meets weekly. Basic instruction on meditation postures and walking meditation for beginners the last Sunday of the month, 9-9:45am. $10 suggested donation. Open Mind Zen Naples, 1250 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 205, Naples. 961-2491. OpenMindZenNaples.com.

Yoga in the Garden – 10-11am. With Susie Lentz. Practice in the great outdoors surrounded by beauty of the Naples Botanical Gardens on the Kapnick Caribbean lawn. $10/members; $20/nonmembers. 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 598-1938.

NaplesGarden.org.

Rivers and Creek Kayak Tour – 10am-2pm. Mangrove forest and nesting birds. Includes equipment

monday Pilates Reformer – 8am. With Patricia Wilborn.

Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples. 290-7499.

Al-Anon Family Groups – Support for families and friends troubled by someone else’s drinking.

Naples. 263-5907 or 888-425-2666 for 24/7 info.

Schedule at SouthFloridaAl-Anon.org.

Guided Tour and Organic Lunch – Mon-Fri. 10am-3pm, gift shop open. 11am & 2pm, guided tour, $15; 11:30am-2:30pm, organic lunch: vegan, vegetarian and protein offerings. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs.

949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Drum and Dance Circle – 6-9pm. Drummers, dancers, jugglers, everyone welcome. BYO chair and instrument. Under the pavilion by the water in Centennial Park, Ft Myers. Info: Facebook page: Fort Myers Drum Circle. 935-5551.

and FL master naturalist guide. GAEA guides. Ft Myers. 694-5513.

Center for Spiritual Living, Cape Coral – 10:30am service. Celebration, connection, community and more. 406 SE 24th Ave, Cape Coral.

574-6463. CSLCapeCoral.com.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples – 10:30am. Service, youth classes and childcare. Celebrate freedom, reason and compassion. All welcome. 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples.

455-6553. uunaples@earthlink.net. uunaples.org.

Unitarian Universalist Church of Ft Myers Sunday Service – 10:30-11:30am. All welcome. 13411 Shire Ln, Ft Myers. 561-2700. uucfm.org.

Gentle Yoga for Discovering a Path to Peace – 10:30noon. With Renee Newell. Through gentle yoga and stretching, learn to move with awareness and less effort, to be more and do less. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Intuitive Consultations and Energy Healing – 11am-4pm. With Patrick Giordano. Psychic readings, mediumship, Reiki healing and sound therapy.

The Mystical Moon, 8951 Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 255, Bonita Springs. 301-0655.

Cycling Class for Parkinson’s – 12:30-2pm. Find support from other people with Parkinson’s, feel better and reduce your symptoms. Physician referral required. Free. Bonita Springs YMCA, 27200 Kent Rd. Marla Ramsey: 221-7560.

Aerial Yoga – 10am. With Patricia Wilborn. Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples.

290-7499.

Yoga for Anxiety – 10:30-11:30am. With Michelle Falco. Gentle class for all levels. Calm your body with yoga while learning specific self-talk skills. $15/drop-in or $50/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210.

MonarchWellness.com.

Cooperative Caterpillar Kids Club – 4:305:30pm. With Jill Emmerich. Build social and communication skills. Practice getting along better with others, sharing, taking turns, following directions, healthy expression of emotions. Ages 4 and up. $20/drop-in or $60/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210.

MonarchWellness.com.

Sunset Beach Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. With Sue Rokela. All-levels yoga class. Visit greenmonkey’s Facebook page for weather cancelations. $5 plus park entry fee. Proceeds benefit the Friends of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. 11135 Gulfshore Dr, parking area 3, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey. com/naples-schedule.

Qigong for Everyone – 5:30-6:30pm. With Dona Matera. Standing, or sitting if needed, with slow movements to harmonize physical health. $15/ drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com.

Ashtanga Yoga: Full Primary Series – 4:30-6pm.

A set sequence of postures as taught by the late Sri K Pattabhi Jois. $15 suggested donation. Open Mind Zen Naples, 1250 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 205, Naples.

961-2491. OpenMindZenNaples.com.

Introductory Buddhist Teach-Ins and Meditation Practice – 4:45pm. Last Sun each month. greenmonkey, 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples.

FloridaMindfulness.org.

Buddhist Teach-Ins and Meditation Practice – 6:30pm. With dharma teacher Fred Epsteiner, in the spirit of Thich Nhat Hanh. greenmonkey, 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. FloridaMindfulness.org.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 6:30pm. A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Cape Christian Fellowship, 2110 Chiquita Blvd, Cape Coral. 338-5948.

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Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) – 6pm. Open 12-step meeting with discussion format. Lamb of God Church, Conference Room, 19691 Cypress View Dr, Ft Myers. Rob: 948-9162.

Compassionate Friends: Collier County Group – 7:30pm. Second Mon. For bereaved parents.

YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd, Naples. 690-7801. swflcf@live.com.

Prenatal Yoga – 6-7pm. With Meryl Sykes. Vinyasa yoga class, no experience necessary. $20/class, $90/ five class pack, $150/10 class pack. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Ste 1 & 3, Naples. 646226-1471. Meryl@routeyoga.com.

Beginner’s Yoga – 7:15-8:15pm. With Meryl Sykes.

No experience necessary. $20/class, $90/ five-class pack, $150/ 10-class pack. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Ste 1 & 3, Naples. 646-226-1471.

Meryl@routeyoga.com.

Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional Families (ACA) – 6-7:30pm. 12-step meeting.

Unity Church of Naples, choir room, 2000 Unity Way, Naples. Lissa: 908-752-0068. FloridaState.

ACAIntergroup.org.

Crystal Bowls Meditation Class – 7:30pm. With William Ward. A guided meditation with healing energies of the crystal and Tibetan bowls. $15. Center of Eternal Light, 260 Professional Pl, N Ft Myers.

599-4700. CenterOfEternalLight.com.

Women’s Empowerment Workshop – 6-8:30pm.

With Annie Addington. Connect with your own inner power, release the feeling of victimization and tap into your creative energies. $320/eight weeks, $45/ drop-in; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210. MonarchWellness.com.

Nar-Anon Family Groups – 7:30pm. Providing support and hope to those who are in despair because of a relative or friend’s addiction. First Baptist Church, 4117 Coronado Pkwy, Cape Coral. 940-2615.

Clay Handbuilding and Raku Techniques – 6-9pm. Five-week class with Richard W Rosen. $195 plus materials ($30). Rosen Gallery & Studios, Naples Art District, 2172 J&C Blvd, Naples. RSVP: 821-1061. rictra@earthlink.net.

A Course in Miracles – 7pm. Love offering. Unity of Naples Church, Fireplace Room, 2000 Unity Way. 775-3009. NaplesUnity.org.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 7pm.

A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Community Congregational Church, 15300 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. Nancy: 352-0527.

Reiki Healing – 7pm. 1st & 3rd Mon. Love offering. Unity of Naples Church, Fellowship Hall, 2000 Unity Way, Naples. 775-3009. NaplesUnity.org.

Candlelight Yoga Flow – 7-8pm. With Dina Radcliffe. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Integrative Mindfulness, The Fountains Professional Park, 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Ste 102, Bonita Springs.

280-9095. IntegrativeMindfulness.net.

Gurdjieff/Ouspensky Study Group – 7-8pm. An exploration of the teachings of G I Gurdjieff, with readings and discussion. Introductory sessions meet in Bonita Springs. Info: 565-1410. TheGurdjieffSocietyOfFlorida.org.

Zen Meditation and Dharma Talk – 7-8:30pm.

With Andy Solis or Laurie Lyons. Includes silent seated and walking meditation. Concludes with open discussion. $10 suggested donation. Open Mind Zen Naples, 1250 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 205, Naples. 961-2491. OpenMindZenNaples.com.

tuesday Yoga – 8:30am. With Julie Christenbury. Beginners to intermediate. All ages. Strengthen/lengthen your muscles while calming, soothing your mind. $15. Eyes Wide Open Center, 9200 Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 204, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 948-9444.

EyesWideOpenC.com.

Yoga for Strength and Flexibility – 8:30-9:30am.

With Michelle Falco, RTY. Gentle yoga that targets poses to build strength and flexibility for your body. $15/drop-in or $50/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210.

MonarchWellness.com.

Hatha Yoga – 9am. With Meredith Musick. All levels. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Trl N, Naples. 213-9276. BKSYogaStudio.com.

Women’s Overeaters Anonymous Step Writing Meeting – 10am. Free. 9470 Corkscrew Palms Circle, Ste 104, Estero. Sandy: 973-809-5338 or Helen: 247-0385.

Empowered Yoga – 10-11am. With Michelle Falco. Discover the strength within through gentle movement and relaxation. $15/drop-in or $50/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210. MonarchWellness.com.

Family Yoga in the Garden – 10-11am. With Heather Pilling. Interactive partner poses for kids ages 2-5 and adults to do together. Age-appropriate yoga poses, breathing, movement games and relaxation. $20/includes garden admission for adults plus

garden admission alone for kids. Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 598-1938.

NaplesGarden.org.

Estuary Kayak Tour in Estero Bay – 10am-1pm.

Birds, dolphins, manatees and more. $40. Includes equipment and FL master naturalist guide. GAEA guides, Bonita Bch. 694-5513.

Nia – 11am-noon. With Valeria Hill. Combines marital arts, dance and healing arts. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Preregister: 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com.

Tai Chi – 11am-noon. Dr Joel Ying, MD, teaches chen-style exercise and moving meditation. Beginners welcome. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Trl N, Ste 204, Naples. LoveYogaCenter.com.

Caregiver Support Group for the Blind and Visually Impaired – 12:30pm. Facilitated by Rick Hart. Learn the importance of taking good care of yourself, healthy ways to manage stress, relaxation techniques and the importance of connecting with other caregivers. Lighthouse of Collier, 2685 Horseshoe Dr S, Ste 211, Naples.

RSVP: 430-3934.

Cycling Class for Parkinson’s – 12:30-2pm. Find support from other people with Parkinson’s, feel better and reduce your symptoms. Physician referral required. Free. Bonita Springs YMCA, 27200 Kent Rd. Marla Ramsey: 221-7560.

Chair Yoga – 1-2pm. With Dina Radcliffe. $15/ drop-in or $120/10 classes. Integrative Mindfulness, The Fountains Professional Park, 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Ste 102, Bonita Springs. 280-9095. IntegrativeMindfulness.net.

Beach Yoga – 4:30pm. Open to all ages and levels.

By donation. Located near the Naples pier. Register: GulfShoreYoga.com.

Hatha Yoga – 5:30pm. With Chris Neal. Beginners to advanced. Quiet your mind, improve balance, range of motion, performance. $15. Private classes available. Eyes Wide Open Center, 9200 Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 204, Bonita. 948-9444. EyesWideOpenC.com.

All Levels Yoga – 6-7pm. With Salima Silverman.

A yoga class designed for everyone. Great for advanced or first-time students. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Mindfulness Meditation Practice Group – 6-6:45pm. With Madeline Ebelini, MA, RYT. Lightly guided practice session, mindfulness poetry, followed by Q&A and/or discussion afterward.

Donation. Integrative Mindfulness, 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Ste 102, Bonita Springs. 590-9485.

IntegrativeMindfulness.net.

Core Elations Pilates – 6:30pm. Unify body, mind and spirit. Bring your own mat. Free thru 2015. Genesis Non GMO Vitamins, 877 91st Ave, Ste 4, Naples.

RSVP: 596-9017. Info@GenesisNonGMO.com.

Yoga for Anxiety – 6:30-7:30pm. With Michelle Falco. Gentle class for all levels. Calm your body with yoga while learning specific self-talk skills. $15/drop-in or $50/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210.

MonarchWellness.com.

Men’s Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) – 6:30-8pm. A 12-step program. Common purpose is a desire for healthier relationships. 9470 Corkscrew Palms Cir, Ste 104, Estero. David: 470-0899.

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suffering from chronic illness or injury. Yoga postures, breath work, sound and wellness practices based on ayurveda, qigong and other disciplines. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Aerial Yoga – 10am. With Patricia Wilborn. Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples.

290-7499.

Women Seeking Serenity Through the 12 Steps – 10am. Free. Hope Lutheran Church, Old US 41, Bonita. Carol: 405-1947.

Cocohatchee River/Wiggins Pass Estuary Kayak Tour – 10am-1pm. Birds, dolphins and other critters. $45. Includes all equipment and FL master naturalist guide. GAEA guides. N Naples. 694-5513.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 7pm. A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Riverside Church, 8660 Daniels Pkwy, Ft Myers. 338-5948.

Spano’s Meditation – 7pm. 2nd & 4th Tues. Love offering. Unity of Naples Church, 2000 Unity Way. 775-3009. NaplesUnity.org.

Ecstatic Kirtan – 7:15-8:45pm. Last Tue. With Missy Balsam. An evening of connection, community building and heart-opening singing. No experience necessary. $15 love offering. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Ste 1 & 3, Naples.

272-6152. HouseOfGaia.org.

Transformational Breath Class – 7:15-8:45pm.

With Carrie Sopko. A guided breathing and meditation class that will relax your mind and explore your inner consciousness. $20/drop-in; regular class packages apply. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 213-9276. BKSYogaStudio.com.

wednesday Pilates Reformer – 8am. With Patricia Wilborn.

Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples. 290-7499.

Aerial Yoga – 9am. With Patricia Wilborn. Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples.

290-7499.

Emei Qigong – 11am-noon. With Melanie Hope.

Slow, easy movements that cleanse, strengthen and balance. Harmonize organ and energy systems and realize many proven health benefits. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Multi-Level Gentle Yoga – 11am-noon. With Sarah, Yoga Therapist. Pranayama, deep stretching; flow through gentle asanas. Therapeutic Bodywork Center of Ft Myers, 6202 Presidential Ct, Ste B. Preregistration required: GulfshoreYoga.com.

Adult Children of Alcoholic/Dysfunctional Families – 2:30-4pm. Terrified of abandonment but continue to hang onto sick relationships? Dry Palms Foundation Building, 1251 Lamar Rd, N Ft Myers.

Jane: 728-7106. FloridaState.ACAInterGroup.org.

Shake, Rattle and Roll – 4-5pm. With Cheryl Bernardi, E-RYT, LMT, birth doula. Mother and baby class. Strengthen and support your body with Pilates and yoga exercises along with singing songs and baby yoga moves. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Advanced Purna – 5:30-7:30pm. With Meredith Musick. With great yoga wall. Call for directions.

Naples. RSVP: 269-8846.

Healing, Prayer and Meditation Service – 6pm.

First Wed. Love offering. Unity of Naples Church,

Sanctuary, 2000 Unity Way, Naples. 775-3009.

NaplesUnity.org.

Meditation – 6pm. With Cici. Quiet mind; relaxed body. Practice conscious focusing; improve physical, mental, emotional health. Donation. 9200 Bonita Beach Rd, Ste 204, Bonita Springs. 948-9444.

EyesWideOpenCenter.com.

Ra-African Dance – 6pm. With Lulu Carter, queen mother of Torgome. Ultimate energy dance, fusion dance moves from Africa to Brazil. $12. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Ste 1 & 3, Naples.

272-6152. HouseOfGaia.org.

Prenatal Yoga – 6-7pm. With Cheryl Bernardi. Yoga and movement exercises for pregnancy. Breathing techniques, relaxation, pain management. $15/dropin or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, Bonita Springs. LifeBehold.com.

Pet Loss and Grief Support Group – 6:30pm.

2nd Wed. Compassionate support: pet loss, medical crisis, chronic illness. Free. 1939 Park Meadows Dr, Ft Myers. 936-1732.

The Artist’s Way – 6:30pm. An ongoing study group for discovering your creative self, text by Julia Cameron. Crossroads Community Church, 1055 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples. Dennis: 608-345-2726.

DennisChurch.com.

La Leche League – 7pm. 3rd Wed. Mother-tomother breastfeeding support group. Children welcome. Free. Cape Coral Hospital Women’s Center, 2nd floor, 636 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral. lllflorida.com.

A Course in Miracles – 7-8pm. 2nd & 4th Wed. Readings and interpretation. Everyone is welcome.

Love offering. Unity Church of Bonita Springs, 28285 Imperial Pkwy, Bonita. 272-5456.

Families Anonymous – 7-8:15pm. For relatives and friends of those who suffer from a current, suspected or former problem of substance abuse or related behavioral problem. Open to all. No dues or fees.

Moorings Presbyterian Church, Naples. 595-1938.

FamiliesAnonymous.org.

Nar-Anon Family Groups – 7:30pm. Providing support and hope to those who are in despair because of a relative or friend’s addiction. Cape

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 9am. A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Community Congregational Church, 15300 Tamiami Tr N, Naples.

Nancy: 352-0527.

Morning Beach Yoga – 9-10am. With Aleksandra Eifler. Students can enjoy yoga while being surrounded by the beauty of nature at Delnor-Wiggins State Park. $5 plus state park entry fees. 11135 Gulf Shore Dr, Naples. 598-1938. greenmonkey.com.

Multi-Level Gentle Yoga – 9-10am. With Sarah.

Open to the public and conducted in the group fitness room. Yoga mat and yoga props provided. $15. Anytime Fitness, 9211 College Parkway, Ft Myers. Preregistration required: 825-0126 or GulfShoreYoga.com.

Yamuna Body Rolling Class – 9-10am. Self-massage techniques to create space back into the body and tone muscles. Call to reserve balls. $20. Arthur Murray Dance Center, Naples. Patti: 649-0814.

Yoga for Well-being – 9:30-10:45am. With Stephanie Brinkerhoff. Gentle class for beginners or those

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Professional Center, 1216 SW 4th St, Ste 6, Cape Coral. 691-3653.

27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com.

thursday

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 1:30pm. A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Community Church of Christ, 368 Herron Rd, N Ft Myers. 585-955-3910.

Yoga – 7:15am & 8:30am. With Julie Christenbury.

Beginners to intermediate. All ages. Strengthen/ lengthen your muscles while calming, soothing your mind. $15. Eyes Wide Open Center, 9200 Bonita Bch Rd, Ste 204, Bonita Springs. RSVP: 948-9444.

EyesWideOpenC.com.

Caterpillar Kids Club – 5-6pm. With rotating teachers. Develop healthy coping skills from an early age through the use of movement, breath, sound and relaxation. $12/drop-in or $45/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210. MonarchWellness.com.

Hatha Yoga – 9am. With Meredith Musick. All levels. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Trl N, Naples. 213-9276. BKSYogaStudio.com.

Qigong Movement and Relaxation – 9-10am.

With Peggy Sealfon. Energizing and revitalizing; yoga, qigong and integrative relaxation (yoga nidra) helps you feel refreshed and recharged. $15/drop-in or $50/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples. 325-9210.

MonarchWellness.com.

Tai Chi in the Garden – 10-11am. Through April 14. With Karen McNeil. Arrive 15 minutes early.

Wear hat, stable-firm shoes (no flip flops) and sunscreen. $20/nonmembers, $10/members. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 6437275. NaplesGarden.org.

Coconut Point Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm.

Through Apr 28. Offering local produce, cheese, fresh pasta, seafood, baked breads, meats, herbs, organic vegetables, plants, ready-to-eat meals, flowers, soaps, candles and more. 23106 Fashion Dr, Estero. BuyLocalLee.com.

Women Seeking Serenity Through the 12 Steps – 9:30am. Free. Lamb of God Episcopal Lutheran Church, 19691 Cypress View Dr, Estero. Sally: 948-9162.

World Fusion Dance – 9:30-10:45am. With Winnie Purple. A fun and exciting dance class that incorporates movements from different cultures around the world. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 9490749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Beach Yoga – 11:30-noon. Open to all ages and levels. By donation. Located near the Naples pier.

Register: GulfShoreYoga.com.

Warrior2Warrior: Yoga for Veterans – 11amnoon. With Gary Granza and Keady. Adaptive yoga with long sequences to calm your spirit. Followed by coffee, water and snacks. Free. Shangri-La Springs,

Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support Group – 5:15-6:45pm. 2nd Thurs. 1095 Whippoorwill Ln, Naples. 298-9725. Facebook.com/swflshare.

Vinyasa Flow – 5:45-6:45pm. With Karen Lepree. Sun salutations, movement and stretching. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Multi-Level Gentle Yoga – 6-7pm. With Sarah, Yoga Therapist. Pranayama, deep stretching; flow through gentle asanas. Therapeutic Bodywork Center of Ft Myers, 6202 Presidential Ct, Ste B. Preregistration required: GulfshoreYoga.com.

Reiki Circle – 6:30pm. 2nd & 4th Thurs. With Reiki master Silvia Casabianca. Open to all. Satsang, meditation, tea potluck and receive healing. Love offering. Eyes Wide Open Center, Bonita Springs.

948-9444. EyesWideOpenC.com.

Peaceful Mind – 6:30-8pm. With rotating teachers.

Unwind and energize through use of breath, sound, humor and relaxation exercises. $20/drop-in or $60/four weeks; client discount available. Monarch Therapy, 843 Myrtle Terrace, Naples. 325-9210.

MonarchTherapy.com.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 7pm. A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Riverside Church, 8660 Daniels Pkwy, Ft Myers. 338-5948.

La Leche League – 7pm. 1st Thurs. Mother-tomother breastfeeding support group. Children welcome. Free. St Hilary’s Episcopal Church, 5011 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers. 454-1350.

Meditation and Dharma Discussion – 7-8pm.

Silent seated and walking meditation followed by open dharma discussion based on presented topic. $10 suggested donation. Open Mind Zen Naples, 1250 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 205, Naples. 961-2491.

OpenMindZenNaples.com.

Transformational Breath – 7-8:30pm. 2nd & 4th Thurs. With Carrie Sopko. A self-healing sys-

tem using conscious breath work. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Preregister: 949-0749.

ShangriLaSprings.com.

friday Hatha Yoga – 9am. With Meredith Musick. All levels. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Trl N, Naples. 213-9276. BKSYogaStudio.com.

Restorative Yoga – 9:30-10:45am. With Sue Lovett.

Quiet the mind, soothe the nervous system and increase mind/body awareness and connect with nature. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes. Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 9490749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

La Leche League – 10am. 2nd Fri. Mother-tomother breastfeeding support group. Center Point Community Church, 6590 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. 404-4933. LaurieLLL@aol.com.

Happehatchee Volunteer Day – 10am-4pm. Lend a hand with organic gardening, painting. Share vegetarian/vegan potluck lunches. Meditate in the serenity of the center. Free tours. Happehatchee Center, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. 992-5455.

Happehatchee.org.

Ashtanga Yoga Basics – 10:45-11:45am. All levels, modifications offered. Based on the teachings of the late Sri K Pattabhi Jois. $15 suggested donation.

Open Mind Zen Naples, 1250 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 205, Naples. 961-2491. OpenMindZenNaples.com.

Chakra Connection – 11-11:45am. With Terry Flynn. Designed to connect, open and balance the energy centers and enhance the flow of energy throughout the body. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes.

Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Women’s Co-Dependents Anonymous – Noon.

Women only. Hope Lutheran Church, Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Sally: 948-9162.

Cycling Class for Parkinson’s – 12:30-2pm. Find support from other people with Parkinson’s, feel better and reduce your symptoms. Physician referral required. Free. Bonita Springs YMCA, 27200 Kent Rd. Marla Ramsey: 221-7560.

Chair Yoga – 2-3pm. With Dina Radcliffe, ERYT. Breath work, mindful meditations, stretches and balance work. $15/drop-in or $120/10 classes.

Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 949-0749. ShangriLaSprings.com.

Sunset/Bird Rookery Kayak Tour – 3-6pm. On the Caloosahatchee River. See thousands of birds coming in to roost for the night. $40. Includes equipment and FL master naturalist guide. GAEA guides, Ft Myers. 694-5513.

Slow Flow Glow Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. With Amy Voelkl. A candlelit slow flow restorative class

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designed to warm your body, stretch your muscles and deepen your breath. $20/drop-in; regular class packages apply. 6200 Trail Blvd, Naples. Info: 5981938 or greenmonkey.com.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 10am. A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Dr, Naples. Nancy: 352-0527.

Recovery Yoga – 5:30-7:30pm. With Michelle Falco. Discussion, gentle movement and relaxation along your journey of recovery. Suitable for trauma, loss, addictions (substances, food, gambling, etc) and other emotional challenges. Donation. Monarch Therapy, Naples. 325-9210. MonarchTherapy.com.

Women Seeking Serenity through the 12 Steps – 10am. Free. Hope Lutheran Church, Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Carol: 405-1947.

Multi-Level Gentle Yoga – 6-7pm. With Sarah, Yoga Therapist. Pranayama, deep stretching and gentle asanas. Therapeutic Bodywork Center of Ft Myers, 6202 Presidential Ct, Ste B. Preregistration required: GulfShoreYoga.com.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) – 6:30pm. A 12-step program for food addiction. No dues, no fees, no weigh-ins. Cape Christian Fellowship, 2110 Chiquita Blvd, Cape Coral. 338-5948.

Healing the Healers/Reiki Healing Circle – 6:308pm. 4th Fri. With Lenka Spiska. Healers and Reiki practitioners on all levels are encouraged to give and receive. $15 donation. Happehatchee Center, peace pavilion, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. 992-5455.

Happehatchee.org.

Mantra Sound Healing Circle – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Fri. With Johnny Freedom and Isabel Silva. Evening includes kirtan, devotional call and response singing, with crystal singing bowls meditation. $15 donation.

Happehatchee Center, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero.

992-5455. Happehatchee.org.

Bonita Springs Drum Circle – 6:30-8:30pm.

Everyone welcome; kids, dogs, the whole family.

Drum, dance, hoop, have fun. Riverside Park, 10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. Facebook Page: Drum Circle of Bonita Springs.

saturday Facial Marma Point Massage Tutorial – 8am1pm. Sample a handcrafted, ‘bliss’ aromatherapy lotion (contains 20+ essential oils) and learn how to do a marma point facial massage at the Vivasana booth. Free. Vanderbilt Farmers Market, NW corner of Airport Pulling and Vanderbilt Rd, Naples.

444-8160.

Aerial Yoga – 9am. With Patricia Wilborn. Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples.

290-7499.

Compassionate Friends: Lee County Group – 9am. 4th Sat. For bereaved parents. Unity Church of Bonita, 28285 Imperial Pkwy, Bonita Springs.

690-7801. swflcf@live.com.

Green Market – 9am-1pm. Alliance for the Arts, Ft Myers. 939-2787. ArtInLee.org.

Pilates Mat – 9:30am. With Patricia Wilborn. Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples.

290-7499.

Yoga for You – 9:30-10:30am. 1st & 3rd Sat. With Michelle Falco and Peggy Sealfon. Gentle class for all levels. Connect to the joy and beauty of your true self through mindful movement and increased self-awareness. $15/drop-in or $50/four classes; client discount available. Monarch Wellness, Naples.

325-9210. MonarchTherapy.com.

Aerial Yoga – 10am. With Patricia Wilborn. Gyrotonic of Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 107, Naples. 290-7499.

Postnatal Yoga – 10-11am. With Meryl Sykes.

Vinyasa yoga class, no experience necessary. $20/ class, $20/five class pack, $150/10 class pack. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Ste 1 & 3, Naples.

Preregistration required: 646-226-1471. Meryl@ routeyoga.com.

Estuary Kayak Tour in Estero Bay – 10am-1pm.

Birds, dolphins, manatees and more. $40. Includes all equipment and FL master naturalist guide. GAEA guides, Bonita Bch. 694-5513.

Women Seeking Serenity through the 12 Steps – 10am. Free. Hope Lutheran Church, Old 41 Rd, Bonita. Carol 676-7793.

Really, Really Free Market – 10am-2pm. 1st Sat. Potluck of reusable items. No money, barter or trade; everything is free. Fleischmann Park,

Naples. Facebook page: Naples Really Really Free Market.

Happehatchee Volunteer Day – 10am-4pm. Lend a hand with organic gardening, painting. Share vegetarian/vegan potluck lunches. Meditate in the serenity of the center. Free tours. Happehatchee Center, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. 992-5455.

Happehatchee.org.

Kids Yoga – 11:30am-12:15pm. Kids ages five to 10 will learn yoga through the use of themes increasing their balance, strength, social skills and building self-awareness in a fun and inviting atmosphere. $5/drop-in. BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 213-9276. BKSYogaStudio.com.

Eckhart Tolle Meditation Group – 2:30pm. Meets 12/12. DVDs, CDs and discussion. Free. Unitarian/Universalist Church, 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples. 249-6916.

Happehatchee Drum Circle – 5:30-7:30pm. 1st Sat. With Marc Wagner. All levels welcome. Bring your drums and shakers. $15 suggested donation.

Happehatchee Center, 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero.

992-5455. Happehatchee.org.

classifieds Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $20 for up to the first 20 words and $1 for each additional word.

To place an ad, email NAclassifieds@ naturalawakeningsmag.com.

FOR RENT BEAUTIFUL, SACRED HEALING ROOM – The Healing Room in the historic house at Happehatchee Center is available for responsible healing practitioners to rent. Available Tues-Sun, 9am-5pm. $20/two-hour session. Happehatchee@gmail.com.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT – 10-by-10 space in prime location in Naples. Interviewing for Dec. 1. Acupuncturist or practitioner of Asian modality preferred. $450/month. 340-1036.

TWO PRIVATE ROOMS FOR RENT – Available in luxury wellness center near Park Shore and Pelican Bay, Naples. From $390. 398-5578.

SPACIOUS TREATMENT ROOM – With cozy reception area available on Anchor Rode Dr, in Naples. Great location and reasonable rent. Kathy: 250-5812.

TREATMENT ROOMS FOR RENT IN ORGANIC SALON – One or two rooms available to rent in Naples. Perfect for massage therapist, esthetician, eyelash extensions, acupuncture. WiFi, washer, dryer, water cooler and refrigerator included. 248-8838.

OPPORTUNITIES SEEKING PERSONAL BUSINESS ASSISTANT – Acting/improv experience useful, not required. My work includes recognizing and energizing potential business projects while confronting boredom and distractions. The opportunity will include creating goals, marketing, managing timelines and supporting focus and personal motivation to empower

a senior citizen to continue to produce value to humanity. The initial agreement will include a five-to-10-hour/week work commitment that will be renegotiated as the work relationship develops.

Bill: 597-7372.

START A CAREER YOU CAN BE PASSIONATE ABOUT – Publish your own Natural Awakenings magazine. Home-based business complete with comprehensive training and support system. New franchises are available or purchase a magazine that is currently publishing. Call 530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsmag.com/MyMagazine.

PRODUCTS NEW GIFT IDEA! SOOTHING PAIN RELIEF – Thousand Petals Organic Cream eases arthritis, joints, injuries, emotions, grief and loss. All-natural flower essences, safe and effective. 298-4839. AllOnePeace.com.

SERVICES GENAI’S LIGHT, SOUND, COLOR HEALING – Shamanic chants, flower essences, medical intuitive, soul-weaver, coach. 30 years professional experience. Gift certificates. 298-4839. AllOnePeace.com.

MUSIC THERAPY FOR ALZHEIMERS PATIENTS AND ELDERLY – Violinist JamesSteven Farnsworth performs well known and beautiful music for the invalid, hospice and Alzheimer patients at home and care center. Excellent recommendations. Healing mini-concerts are $60 in Naples. Call/text: 510-292-7786. JamesSteven. com/SweetBreeze.

RECLAIM HEALTH AND VITALITY WITH TONG REN – A gentle, yet powerful holistic therapy that clears blockages in the body’s natural flow of chi, bioelectricity, blood and hormones.

Remote sessions and convenient healing mp3s: JOLHealing.selz.com.

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communityresourceguide

Be the Friend He Needs

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email NAadvertising@naturalawakeningsmag.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE/HYPNOTHERAPY

Patricia Acerra, LAc, Dipl Ac (NCCAOM), CCHt 2335 9th St N, #303B, Naples 34103 239-659-9100 • PatriciaAcerra.com Empowering and inspiring you to change habits, release energetic blocks, create and reach goals, or simply be peaceful where you are. Over 20 years serving Naples. Hypnotherapy, Esoteric and Traditional Acupuncture; Subconscious Behaviorist, Holistic Psychology and more. Free 30-minute consultation.

ACUPUNCTURE/ORIENTAL MEDICINE Dr. Arthur Teubner, AP, DOM 5th Ave, Naples • 239-451-3282 ArthurTeubner.com

Brings 32 years experience treating a wide variety of conditions including facial rejuvenation/antiaging. Honored to now service patients in South Florida.

ACUPUNCTURE/PSYCHOTHERAPY John E. Patton, Board Certified Acupuncture Physician Licensed Mental Health Counselor 1063-1065 Fifth Ave N, Naples 239-262-6828

Specialty: acupuncture, psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, meditation—wellness through maintenance and prevention.

Indigestion, hormone imbalance, pain, headaches, anxiety, depression, detoxification. AP488/MH2616.

Adopt -AManatee®

savethemanatee.org

ACUPUNCTURE/TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Rosemary Harris, Lic. Acupuncture Physician Complete Well-Being Center 684 Goodlette Rd N, Naples 34102 239-404-0648 We combine modern medicine with the wisdom of ancient healing utilizing acupuncture, auricular therapy, herbal medicine, cupping, dietary therapy, electrical acupuncture, facial rejuvenation, a therapeutic massage chair and cold laser pain therapy. “We treat you like family!”

Collier/Lee Counties

Charles Caccamesi, Acupuncture Physician, DOM 501 Goodlette Rd N, Unit D100, Naples 239-877-2531

New England School of Acupuncture graduate with 25 years experience. Charles specializes in complex symptomology, chronic pain conditions, expert facial rejuvenation, side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. See ad, page 28.

ACUPUNCTURE CENTER OF NAPLES Dr. Xiu Qiong Cen, AP, OMD (China) 5683 Naples Blvd, Naples 34109 P: 239-513-9232 • F: 239-513-9293 Drcenacupuncture@gmail.com

Licensed acupuncture physician with 28 years experience in acupuncture and Chinese medicine.

Experienced in pain management, women’s health, insomnia, migraines, digestion issues and much more. See ad, page 46.

DR. HU PAN, A.P.

Office in Naples & Ft Myers 239-821-4482 PanAcupuncture.com Dr. Pan graduated from the department of acupuncture in Hubei College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and post-graduated from Tongji Medical University. He is proficient in both Eastern medicine and Western medicine with over 25 years of experience. See ad, page 23.

PHYLLIS C. WEBER, AP

Oriental Medicine 239-841-6611, Naples & Ft Myers Specializing in treatment of allergies, hormonal imbalances, auto-immune problems and pain using acupuncture, herbs, NAET, Biomagnetic Pairs Therapy.

AP771. See ad, page 14.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE DR JOEL YING, MD

2335 Tamiami Trl N, Ste 206, Naples 239-200-6796 • JoyHealthWellness.com Support body, mind and spirit with a holistic approach to health and wellness. Integrate natural medicine, wellness, craniosacral therapy. Yoga, tai chi, meditation classes.

Photo © Patrick M. Rose

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AYURVEDA CHRISTINA CARLIN, AYURVEDIC PRACTITIONER

Ayurveda Clinic, Massage & Yoga Therapy 501 Goodlette-Frank Rd N, Ste A107, Naples, 34102 • 239-450-6903 Practicing holistic medicine since 1987. Professional Member of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association, specializing in highly personalized Ayurvedic treatments and lifestyle consultations, Massage and individual Yoga sessions for chronic and acute problems. Pancha Karma, Shirodhara and skin care. Ayurveda and Yoga Study program available. MA0023929, MM0008584, FB0716888. See ad, page 6.

BIOFEEDBACK FIREFLY WITHIN, LLC

Karin S Wolfe, CBS 3405 Pelican Landing Pkwy, Bonita Springs 239-980-3257 • FireflyWithin.com FireflyBiofeedback@gmail.com Certified Biofeedback Specialist by the Natural Therapies Certification Board. Testing nearly 7,000 patterns in your body, mind and spirit, and providing energy to the most imbalanced areas creating a space for healing. A consultation and report is provided with each session. CBS#5563.

BODYWORK LAURA BARNES

Certified Advanced Rolfer™ Member – The Rolf Institute, since 1995 Board-Certified Structural Integrator 2335 Tamiami Tr N, #206, Naples 239-825-8555 You can stand straighter, breathe deeply, move more easily with Rolfing®. Injuries, repetitive strain, even favorite sports and hobbies can create chronic tightness and pain; Rolfing unwinds patterns of pain and restriction. Call for free initial consultation and brief sample of the technique.

MA32084/MM29763.

CORRECTIVE BODY THERAPY, LLC 2575 Northbrooke Plaza Dr, Ste 204 Naples 34119 • 239-596-7756 CorrectiveBodyTherapy.com

We realign body posture through the use of therapeutic services including Structural Integration, massage and CPT. Visit us online for more details!

MM34131, MA62926, MA77112.

LILLIAN DENG, LMT

PAULA TERRY, LMT

Offices in Naples & Fort Myers 239-263-7089 MA66792

239-821-3088, by appt. (Collier & Lee)

Lillian Deng is proficient in Chinese Message, Shiatsu, and Swedish Message. She specializes in pain management, relaxation, and weight loss with over 20 years of experience in medical therapy and 10 years of experience in massage therapy. See ad, page 23.

FEET FIRST REFLEXOLOGY Mary Ann Mugaas, NCR 5051 Castello Dr, Naples 261-8833

Reflexology is a natural system of relaxation based on the principles that the body is reflected on the feet. The application of pressure to these areas promotes circulation, balance and relaxation. Nationally certified. Practicing since 1986.

MA24479, MM8962.

HOLISTIC HEALING ARTS Est. 1991 Alvina Quatrano, LMT FL MA 50896 For Info or Appt: 732-266-5276 TheArtOfHolisticMassage.com

Trained at the Upledger Institute, Paula utilizes CranioSacral Therapy combined with HeartC en ter ed Th er ap y, S o mato Emotional Release™, Lymphatic Drainage, love and nurturement to foster the healing your body needs.

Doula services. MA35358.

STUART WRIGHT, ND

Certified Advanced Rolfer Advanced Cranial Therapist Advanced Visceral Therapist Certified Movement Educator Naturopathic Wellness Consulting

By Appointment: 239-272-6443 Over 30 years excelling in Quick Pain Relief. Specializing in Back Pain, Structural Integration & Alignment, All Joint Pain Related Issues, Mobility Improvement, Sports Injuries, Non- Chiropractic Spinal Release. MA36890.

BOTANICAL GARDEN NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN

Enjoy a relaxing and healing massage to suit your needs.

Integrating a lifetime of experience.

Swedish, Zero Balancing, Process Acupressure, Reflexology, Reiki, Sports, Cranio-Sacral, Pregnancy and facials. Facial Specialist FB9742820. FL Provider #50-9777 – Classes.

ROLFED IN PARADISE, INC.

Cindi Curci-Lee, RN, BSN Advanced Certified Rolfer Movement Practitioner Yamuna Body Rolling Instructor 5600 Trail Blvd, Ste 15, Naples 7680 Cambridge Manor Pl, Ste 100, Ft Myers RolfedInParadise@gmail.com • 239-777-4070 Longing for relief from headaches, backaches, joint restrictions, or pain? Love to improve your posture or sport performance? Rolfing’s the 21st century solution! MA38152, MM28692, MM66086.

4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples 239-643-7275 / 877-433-1874 NaplesGarden.org

With nine lush, tropical cultivated gardens and native preserve inspired by plants and cultures from around the globe between the 26th latitude North and 26th latitude South, Naples Botanical Garden is a truly unique destination. See ad, page 33.

CHIROPRACTOR NETWORK CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. Michele Pelletiere 9138 Bonita Beach Rd (Sunshine Plaza) Bonita Springs • 239-949-1222 N.S.A. Practitioner level III. “Healing waves” release tension throughout the body, increasing wellness and quality of life, promoting new strategies for a healthy spine and nervous system.

NUTRITION SPECIALISTS OF FLORIDA 28315 S Tamiami Tr, Ste 101 Bonita Springs 34134 239-947-1177 • DoctorGendron.com

ROLFING NAPLES

George Beahan Certified Advanced Rolfer PTX/Egoscue Posture Therapist Avazzia Microcurrent Therapist 239-919-4413• RolfingNaples.com Lasting relief from chronic pain and tightness with improved posture and performance using Rolfing, PTX/Egoscue structural exercises and Avazzia Microcurrent therapy used by professional sports teams. MA50132.

Uniquely qualified, Expertise in Nutrition, Certified Sports Physician. Palmer graduate with 28 years experience. Integrative Chiropractic with Nutrition to effectively reduce pain in the body.

Getting you back to enjoying sports and leisure. See ad, page 2.

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CLEANING SERVICE THE GREENER CLEENER, LLC

DENTISTRY LASER DENTISTRY

Business & Residential Green Cleaning Services Naples • 239-404-7102 • TheGreenerCleener.com Karma@TheGreenerCleener.com

Mark Corke, DDS 1550 Matthew Dr, Ft Myers 33907 239-936-5442 • FortMyersLaserDentist.com

Let us take care of your mess while you do what you do best.

Offering summer specials, group discounts and familyfriendly personal services. Do not confuse familiarity with safety. Call today for a free estimate. See ad, page 62.

Dr. Corke enjoys working with holistic patients and practitioners on the journey to wellness. His practice “gets it” and is worth the trip to Fort Myers to experience his many services. From dental lasers to ozone he has many tools and a sympathetic ear. See ad, page 24.

COLON THERAPY

WILLIAM E. LOVETT, DDS

CLEANSING SPRINGS INC.

Rosalind (Roz) Fusco LMT, CT 239-596-1110 • 239-571-9816 • MA27876 CleansingSprings.com Internationally Certified with 30 years Licensed Nursing experience; offering a new dimension of colonics with stateof-the-art water system. Massage with Vodder trained Lymphatic Specialists. Facials, Body Wraps, and Far-infrared Sauna. MM13162.

RB INSTITUTE, INC.

C. Robyn Berry, LMT, CRR, CCT, CLDT 13601 McGregor Blvd, Ste 13, Ft Myers 239-939-4646 • RobynBerry.com Colon therapist since 1994.

Enclosed gravity method, uv/ ozone purified water, superior to others. Massage, Reflex-ology, Upledger CranioSacral/SER & Ly m p h D r a i n a g e , Vi s c e r a l Manipulation, Raindrop, Ear Candling, Ozone/Oxygen Steam cabinet, BEFE foot detox, Far-Infrared Sauna. MM7376, MA018351. See ad, page 77.

CRYSTALS & MARBLE INFINITE STONES, LLC

Granite, Marble and Crystals 12911 Metro Pkwy, Ft Myers 33906 239-561-1981 InfiniteStonesllc.com Specializing in unique granite from oversea, precious stone slabs and crystals. We sell wholesale and retail. Please call for an appointment to visit our ware-house. See ad, page 69.

860 111th Ave N, Ste 5, Naples 239-593-4911 • RestorativeDentist.com Dedicated to mercury-free dentistry for over 25 years, preserving teeth and gums for a lifetime, high quality restorative dentistry, and preventative measures with cancer patients during radiation and chemotherapy. See ad, page 11.

ROGER J. PINT, MPH, DMD

9200 Bonita Beach Rd, Ste 111 Bonita Springs, 34135 • 239-676-8730 BonitaDentalStudio.com Dr. Pint can join your health journey and play a role in minimizing toxicity; this includes protection while removing dental materials plus consultation. All X-rays are digital and minimal. See ad, page 43.

ECO-SPIRITUAL CENTER HAPPEHATCHEE ECO-SPIRITUAL CENTER 8791 Corkscrew Rd, Estero 33928 239-992-5455 • Happehatchee.org

A park in the heart of the village, with Yoga in Nature Tuesdays through Sundays, drumming lessons and healing circles.

Peace Pavilion and meeting rooms are available to rent for ceremonies and events.

ENERGY HEALING CORE STAR – JIM CRABTREE CoreStarEnergyHealing.com 239-597-7372

Graduate of Barbara Brennan School of Healing. Jim has conducted more than 9,000 healing sessions, using many techniques to help restructure the energy body and restore health.

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PARTNERSHIP HEALING

Leon & Suzie Favreau 2 locations in Fort Myers Sf5549@hotmail.com • 603-723-5175

A unique spiritual healing experience that combines hands off energy healing with intuitive information. Healing can take place on physical, mental, emotional and/or spiritual levels.

MAUREEN SANDERS, HOLISTIC ENERGETIC MEDICINE

Healing People & Animals since 2005 MaureenSanders.com • TheHorseShaman.com 239-253-9008 Opening the pathways to reveal the underlying causes that prevent humans and animals from truly healing. Difficult physical, emotional and behavioral issues are resolved to bring forth wellness, joy and spiritual growth.

EYE CARE DR. MARC A. GORDON, OD

Night Owl Vision Associates, PA Inside Super Target by I-75 & Immokalee Rd Appointments: 239-514-4715 Having graduated with honors from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in 2006, I have been providing quality eye care for almost 10 years. See better and live better! Our office takes walk-ins and appointments. Many insurances accepted. FL License: OPC4132. See ad, page 25.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE HUGHES CENTER FOR FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE Pamela Hughes, D.O. 800 Goodlette Rd, Ste 270, Naples 34102 239-649-7400 • HughesCenterNaples.com

Honored to continue the traditions of the retiring Dr. David Perlmutter, Dr. Hughes, through functional diagnostic medicine and a comprehensive patient-specific approach, will provide adults and children the tools to restore normal body function by locating the root source of their illness or symptoms. See ad, page 87.

ZORAYDA “JIJI” TORRES, MD, ABIHM, IFMCP

Internal Medicine, Functional Medicine Office: 239-444-5636 • UpstreamMD.com Dr. Torres is a board-certified internist with over 17 years of experience and knows the limitations of conventional internal medicine.

She is among the few Certified Practitioner M.D.s, trained by the Institute For Functional Medicine.

See ad, page 7.

WELLBRIDGES, INC

9200 Bonita Beach Rd, Ste 113, Bonita Springs 239-481-5600 • 239-481-5603 fax DebPost.com Comprehensive, fully integrated health care individualized for adults and children. Chronic fatigue, male and female hormone imbalance.

Digestive disorders, women’s health care, autism, ADHD and related issues. See ad, page 27.

HEALTHY DINING FOOD & THOUGHT ORGANIC FARM MARKET & CAFÉ

2132 Tamiami Trl N, Naples 239-213-2222 • FoodAndThought.com Open Mon-Sat 7am-8pm.

Florida’s only 100% organic market and café. Fresh produce delivered daily. Homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner. See ad, page 10.

KITCHEN41 HEALTHY FOOD

Dine-in/Take-Out/Catering 2500 Tamiami Trl N, Ste 111, Naples 239-263-8009 • Kitchen41.com Homemade, healthy food cooked Sous-Vide, from scratch without any fat or preservatives. Everything gluten-free! Open Mon-Sat 4-9pm. See ad, page 59.

WYNN’S MARKET

141 9th St N, Naples 239-261-7157 • WynnsOnline.com Discover what Wynn’s Family Market has to offer! Fresh, quality, healthy meals as well as your favorite comfort foods! Organic, natural and imported selections. Gluten-free offerings. See ad, page 43.

HOLISTIC CENTER EYES WIDE OPEN CENTER

9200 Bonita Beach Rd, Stes 202-204 239-948-9444 • EyesWideOpenC.com Regain Body Wisdom! Looking to eat healthier, reduce stress, recover joy, find purpose in life?

Come for counseling & art therapy (individuals, couples & families); Nutrition Education; Medical QiGong; Trager Approach®, Massage, Reflexology; Reiki classes & sessions, and free Reiki circles on 2nd & 4th Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.

CEUs. Call ahead. MM21921.

DOROTHY RODWELL, LMFT & RTR THERAPIST

AHA! A Holistic Approach Center 15971 McGregor, Ft Myers • 239-433-5995 AHolisticApproachCenter.com Dorothy Rodwell can help free you from anxiety, PTSD, grief, and depression with Rapid Trauma Resolution (RTR), a newer, briefer and emotionally painless therapy. She is also trained in the Gottman method of Couples Therapy. See ad, page 57.

HYPNOTHERAPY CONCERNED HEALTH ALTERNATIVES Lynn D. Thomas, RN, CHt, Director Certified Medical Clinical Hypnotherapist & Energy Practitioner 239-494-1363 • HypnosisBasics.com

Achieve permanent, positive life and habit changes through safe, rapid, effective relaxation techniques.

Work with your subconscious mind through direct suggestion and regression to reach your fullest potential. Release the Past = Gain Freedom. PL, LBL, EFT, NLP. See ad, page 74.

LIFE COACH/PERSONAL GROWTH TMC PRODUCTIONS

10251 Metro Pkwy, #121, Ft Myers 33966 239-939-4769 • tmc4.com We offer life coaching and personal growth courses for self awareness, breakthrough, leadership, couples or parenting. Free vision workshops monthly, call for dates. Since 1992. See ad, page 63.

LOCALLY-GROWN PRODUCE 31 PRODUCE

18672 SR 31, Alva, FL 33920 239-313-8213 • 31Produce.com Family owned U-Pick Farm.

Open all year-round from 9am5:30pm everyday! Farmers’ Market selling our produce along with local farms produce and local artist crafts, crystals and furniture. See ad, page 51.

It’s in Our DNA to Be Successful We can help you thrive. Advertise in our special

Health & Wellness January Issue

MEDICAL SPA ASSUAGE SPA

9407 Cypress Lake Dr, Ste C Ft Myers 33919 239-333-1450 • AssuageCenters.com The finest relaxation treatments from around the planet have been brought to Fort Myers. Each technique is perfected for your mind, body, face and skin. See ad, page 21.

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call

239-272-8155

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NATURAL & ORGANIC MARKET ADA’S NATURAL MARKET

7070 College Pkwy, Ft Myers 33907 Mon-Sat: 9am-8pm, Sun: 9am-7pm Ph: 239-939-9600 • Fax: 239-288-6210 AdasMarket.com Natural and organic produce and grocery items. Vitamins and supplements. Organic juice and smoothie bar. New Green Leaf Café. Market- prepared foods.

1000’s of gluten-free items. See ad, page 55.

NATURAL HEALTH JAMES OCCHIOGROSSO, MH

Natural Health Practitioner, Herbalist N Ft Myers • 239-652-0421 HealthNaturallyToday.com Improve your health naturally.

Hormone testing. Bio-Identical Hormones. Powerful healing herbs and supplements. Male/ female anti-aging and sexual problems. Want to feel better?

Call now! See ad, page 75.

NUTRITION D-SIGNED NUTRITION, LLC

Dee Harris, RDN, LDN, CDE Bonita Bay Executive Center 3531 Bonita Bay Blvd, Ste 300, Bonita Sprgs 239-676-5249 • D-SignedNutrition.com Medical Nutrition Therapy and health coaching that personalizes your program to restore health and wellness. Improve digestion, elimination, brain health, immune support and hormonal balance.

See ad, page 66.

NUTRITION SPECIALISTS OF FLORIDA 28315 S Tamiami Tr, Ste 101 Bonita Springs 34134 239-947-1177 • DoctorGendron.com

State Board Certified Expert and Specialist in Nutrition. We use an individual, customized and systemic approach. Consult, exam and reassessment for optimum results. See ad, page 2.

PHYSICAL THERAPY INNERCONNECTIONS

Frederick B. Stahlman, BS, PT, CST-D InnerConnectionsPT.com Naples: 239-398-3154

Upledger Institute instructor.

30 years of experience. Holistic practice focusing on personal empowerment and teamwork.

Craniosacral therapy, fascial mobilization, lymphatic drainage.

Energy balancing, structural manual therapies with customized exercise. See ad, page 6.

RAPID TRAUMA RESOLUTION DOROTHY RODWELL, LMFT & RTR THERAPIST

AHA! A Holistic Approach 15971 McGregor, Ft Myers • 239-433-5995 AHolisticApproachCenter.com

Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it. ~Tori Amos

Dorothy Rodwell can help free you from anxiety, PTSD, grief and depression with Rapid Trauma Resolution (RTR)—a newer, briefer and emotionally painless therapy. She is also trained in the Gottman method of Couples Therapy. See ad, page 57.

REALTOR KAREN L. BEATTY, ABR, GRI

Downing-Frye Realty, Inc Naples • 239-269-7788 Klbeatty48@aol.com • KarenBeatty.com Florida native, loving and selling Naples since 1977. Karen knows t h e m a r k e t , o ff e r s e x p e r t counseling with efficient reliability. She takes the stress out of buying or selling and gets the job done with a smile. Choose Karen for ease and joy in your real estate transaction!

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THERMAL IMAGING TARYN KEAN, CCT LEVEL III

Southwest Medical Thermal Imaging 9148 Bonita Beach Rd, Ste 202 Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239-949-2011 • ThermalClinic.com Thermography is a non-invasive, painless and radiation-free procedure that can detect abnormal physiology throughout the entire body. It is a screening test used globally in the evaluation of breast health by marking indicators and risk factors for the development or existence of cancer. Early detection and treatment are the keys to better health.

Owner Taryn Kean is also an instructor for the American College of Clinical Thermology. See ad, page 63.

THETA HEALING DIANA PALM

ThetaHealing Instructor, Medium Center of Eternal Light, 260 Professional Pl, N Fort Myers • 239-599-4700 ConnectWithTheLight.com Diana is a medical intuitive, medium and healer who specializes in ThetaHealing. She clears hauntings for people and locations. Available by phone or in person.

YOGA GREENMONKEY YOGA

(formerly Bala Vinyasa Yoga) GreenMonkey.com • 239-598-1938 6200 Trail Blvd N, Naples 1800 Tamiami Tr E, Naples Two locations: in Central and South Naples. Daily classes for all levels, monthly workshops and private sessions with exceptional teachers, plus awardwinning massage therapy and BV Boutique. 200- and 300-hour Registered Yoga School.

See ad, back cover.

MEREDITH MUSICK, E-RYT, LMT

Master Yoga Teacher and Massage Therapist MeredithMusick.com • 239-269-8846 Positively change your life physically and mentally using time-tested, classical Hatha yoga and Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi bodywork. Specializing in therapeutic yoga and The Great Yoga Wall®. See ad, page 66.

VIVASANA YOGA EDUCATION & WELLNESS

Teacher Training/CEs/Privates/Corporate Vivasana.net • 239-444-8160 We balance ancient wisdom with modern research to create psychologically informed teacher trainings, CEs, private sessions and workshops designed for deep, physical and emotional transformation. See ad, page 23.

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