Natural Awakenings Lowcountry January 2017 issue

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

WEIGHT-LOSS

FREE

SABOTEURS Tackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes

Local FOCUS Wisdom Inspiration

KETTLEBELL NATURALLY

CURVES Short Workouts Sculpt Our Whole Body

LUMINOUS Tips for Healthy Skin that Glows

January 2017 | Lowcountry Edition | www.NALowcountry.com

An Attractive Smile Makes a Lasting Impression!

• Ozone Therapy • Safe Amalgam Removal • BPA-Free Fillings Biological General Dentistry & Cosmetic Dentistry

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

14 Spreading Local Love

Lowcountry Local First

by Jennifer Iamele Savage

16 THE TRUTH ABOUT

MOLD EXPOSURE AFTER FLOODING

by the COEM Team

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18 AFFORDABLE

20

COMPLEMENTARY CARE

Call Us Today: 843-884-1215 1571 Mathis Ferry Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Alternatives to Insurance Cost Less

by Meredith Montgomery

mathisferrydentistry.com

20 WEIGHT-LOSS SABOTEURS

Tackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes

by Lisa Marshall

23 Returning to Our

23

Original Wisdom and Original Goodness

by Meghan Don

24 BODY SCULPT

WITH KETTLEBELLS

Holistic Boutique & Gift sHop

Workouts Burn Fat and Tone Muscle

by Taylor Geiger

26 THE DARK SIDE OF

• Home & Gift items from India, Bali & Thailand • Herbal remedies • Crystals & stones • Spiritual books • Reiki candles • Meditation supplies

Located inside Charmed Reiki Master Sylvia Barnhill Book appointments by calling 843-224-7377

Energy Work, angel card readings, and private meditations by appointment only.

217 Lucas Street, Suite E, Mount Pleasant SC 29464 New Hours! Tuesday – Saturday noon to 6 p.m. CharmedOnShemCreek

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by Judith Fertig

28 THE WILD AND WOOLY TEEN BRAIN

What Kids Need from Us to Grow Wise

by April Thompson

30 HOLISTIC DERMATOLOGY

Charmed is located at Look for the purple door!

GLUTEN-FREE LIVING

Most People Benefit from Gluten

(843) 352-2983

NALowcountry.com

Inner Health, Radiant Skin

by Linda Sechrist

32 PRODUCT REVIEW

24

7 newsbriefs 8 local healthbriefs 9 healthbriefs 1 1 globalbriefs 13 readersnapshot 14 community

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spotlight 11 18 healingways 23 localwisdom 24 fitbody 26 consciouseating 28 healthykids 18 30 greenliving 32 productreview 34 calendar 38 resourceguide

advertising & submissions How to Advertise FOR NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request our rates, please contact us at 843-821-7404 or email: Ads@nalowcountry.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month for the next month’s issue.

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January 2017

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contact us Owner/Publisher Toni Owen Conover Senior Editor Sara Gurgen Design and Production T.W.S. Graphics Stephen Blancett Steve Hagewood Writer Gwen Hughes Advertising Sales Toni Owen Conover Ads@NALowcountry.com Phone: 843-821-7404 www.NALowcountry.com Natural Awakenings-Lowcountry PO Box 1001, Isle of Palms, SC 29451 © 2017 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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

appy 2017! Can you even believe it? 2016 was a year of big changes for me, and for the world. I expect 2017 will hold even more changes in store for us. It is important we take care of ourselves and stay grounded during times of transition and major change. This issue has some great information on how we can do just that.

Check out this month’s local wisdom piece by awardwinning author and part-time Charleston-area resident Meghan Don. She beautifully describes how connecting with nature and silence help us tap into our Original Wisdom and Original Goodness. To quote from her article: “More than ever, we need Wisdom to spread her breath upon our earth and world, and it is only through us that this will happen.”

Weight loss tops the resolution list for many people at the beginning of the year, every year. I am no stranger to this. I have struggled with ups and downs with my weight. As every woman I know over 40 with weight fluctuations can attest, weight loss was a lot easier when we were younger! But with age comes wisdom, hopefully, and we learn our value has nothing to do with the number on the scale or the size of our dress, despite what the media and our culture try to tell us—and sell us. I want to feel my best and be my best, and that is what weight loss is about for me at this stage in my life. I want to feel as good as I can for as long as I can.

There are several great articles to help with a healthy approach to weight loss.

Have you dutifully recorded every morsel you ate, counted your steps, worked out daily and still found that you were at a plateau (um, can I get an amen?). Read “Weight-Loss Saboteurs,” by Lisa Marshall, for some ideas on what might be going on, and what you can do about it. Want a good workout that combines cardio and strength? Check out the Fit Body segment on kettlebells on page 24.

Diet cola addict? Just because it’s calorie-free doesn’t mean it isn’t undermining your weight-loss efforts! Read about it in Dr. Patrick Lovegrove’s local health brief on page 8.

Need a little inspiration? Check out this month’s reader profile, Emily Handren. Emily left a successful business and an emotionally abusive relationship with the little she could fit in her car. She headed to this area leaving both the emotional and physical baggage behind. She trained for races, lost weight, read a lot and became a fitness competitor. Now she helps others as a health and life coach with her business, Mind Love Body.

Getting organized is another resolution for many. It is especially important if a move is on your agenda for yourself or a loved one in 2017. “Moving Made Easier,” on page 31, talks about how to prepare for the process.

One of my resolutions is to detoxify and simplify my home and personal care products as much as possible. I will be sharing recipes and reviews in the coming year and would love to hear from YOU! I will only share my true thoughts on a product, even if I am given a product to review. I will also invite friends to review the same products along with me so you can get several people’s perspectives— not just mine. This month, I fly solo on my review of LipSense (see page 32).

While you are making or not making your resolutions, I hope you will cut yourself a break every now and then. It is great to work to improve aspects of our lives, but it is most important to accept and love ourselves as we are—right here, right now, in all our glorious human imperfection. That to me is the essence of being healthy.

your ideas, articles and feedback.

Let’s resolve to make 2017 our best year yet!

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

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Toni Owen Conover, Publisher NALowcountry.com

newsbriefs

Upcoming Sophia Institute Retreats

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First Annual Women’s Health Symposium, THRIVE on February 11

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oul Blossoms’ first annual Women’s Holistic Health Symposium – THRIVE – Ignite Your Purpose and Spark Your Passion will be held on Saturday, February 11, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at James Island County Park’s Edisto Hall. THRIVE is a full-day workshop for every aspect of a woman’s life—mind, body and soul. It is a day designed for celebrating womanhood.

This year’s theme is Women and Self-Care. There will be a focus on why it is important for women to be mindful of their own needs in order to become the best version of themselves, realize their true potential and develop the confidence to pursue their dreams.

The event includes training from eight experts; a delicious catered lunch by Verde; healthy snacks and beverages throughout the day; a swag bag with lots of goodies from the speakers, sponsors and local businesses; and discounts on upcoming events and services. It will also be an excellent networking opportunity to meet other likeminded women in the community.

Speakers and topics covered include: Stephanie Zgraggen, DC, CNS, CCN – Hormone Harmony – Achieving Hormone

Balance at Any Age Jean Mackzo, BS, LMT – Emerge! – How to Show Up for Your Life!

Sarah Scott Putnam – Blazing Your Path with Purpose and Passion to Create Your

Conscious Career Wendy Perrell, EdD – Unleash Your Personal Power Brittney Hiller – Laughing from the Heart: A Laughter Yoga Experience Rebecca Shaw, CCH – Unleash Your Money, Mission and Moxie in 2017 Rosemarie Swanson – Loving Self-Care with Sacred Activation Leslie Ziemba, CHt – Mastering Love, Men & Mojo Cost: $149 for the first 75 registrants, $197 through February 10, and $249 at the door. Location: 871 Riverland Dr., Charleston. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit SoulBlossoms.org. See ad, page 9.

The Call of the Day Taps into Our Authentic Self

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odi Hershey’s new book The Call of the Day focuses on what is taking place today spiritually and how we are called to tap into our authentic self to individually and collectively do our part in, what she asserts is, humanity “moving from our familiar ThirdDimensional ego self into a Fourth Dimension soul self, with the ability to reach higher levels of awareness and consciousness.”

“Now more than ever, we are called upon to qualify our lives,” says Hershey. “It is a time when we are asked to find our true soul self, which is our home, our connection to the universal life force. We are asked to open our hearts so that we are able to see all that was intended to be. This is ‘the call of the day’.”

Hershey is a graduate from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. She is a trained hypnotherapist in basic, advanced and past-life regression. For more than 15 years, she has provided support as a hypnotherapist, psychic/intuitive reader and spiritual counselor.

For more information, email Joy@JoyJourneyOfYou.com or visit TheCallOfTheDay.org.

See ad, page 29.

he Sophia Institute is offering a weekend retreat at Mepkin Abbey, January 27 to 29, led by award-winning author, founder and leading guide of The Gnostic Grace Circle, Meghan Don. Returning to Our Wisdom, Returning to the Earth offers participants the opportunity to experience the peace of Mepkin Abbey, learn of different Wisdom texts, walk the labyrinth, and access their own wisdom. Participants will spend as much time as possible outside during the retreat, and experience morning and evening meditations and ancient feminine chants. Enjoy Don’s message in this month’s Local Wisdom section on page 23.

Debra Moffitt will lead Making Change Your Ally with Creativity and Intuition, February 3 and 4, at Lance Hall, at 150 Meeting Street, in Charleston.

Participants travel from across the world to attend Moffitt’s programs. This retreat features practical tools to help participants reconnect to their intuition and fuel their creativity. Moffitt is author of Awake in the World: 108 Practices to Live a Divinely Inspired Life, which won the Independent Book Publishers Gold Medal Award and Foreword’s Bronze Medal.

New York Times bestselling author Joan Borysenko will lead Born for These Times, February 24 and 25, also at Lance Hall, at 150 Meeting Street, in downtown Charleston. Borysenko is a Harvard-trained cell biologist, psychologist, and pioneer in stress management and mindfulness. She is the author of 16 books, including the classic Minding the Body, Mending the Mind. The retreat will cover skills needed to survive and thrive in challenging times. Topics include the five seminal traits of resilient people, corporations and institutions; the latest findings in neuroscience about how to balance the brain and bring forth the best self; and skills to balance mind and heart.

For more information or to register, visit TheSophiaInstitute.org/programs. See ad, page 15.

natural awakenings

January 2017

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Avoid Bubbly Trouble to Shed Those Holiday Pounds

by Patrick Lovegrove, DO

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Tracy Hebden/Dreamstime.com

local healthbriefs

hen taken at face value, diet sodas seem like a health-conscious choice when trying to lose those extra holiday pounds at the start of a new year. With their artificial sweeteners (like aspartame, saccharin and sucralose), they save us the 140-plus calories found in sugary soft drinks while still satisfying the urge for something sweet. But there’s more to this chemical cocktail than meets the eye. Artificial sweeteners confuse the body with their intense flavor, often sweeter than real sugar. Over time, products like diet soda dull our senses to naturally sweet foods, like fruit, says registered dietitian Brooke Alpert, author of The Sugar Detox.

Even more troubling, these sugar stand-ins have been shown to have the same effect on our body as sugar. “Artificial sweeteners trigger insulin, which sends our body into fat-storage mode and leads to weight gain,” explains Alpert.

Diet soda is calorie-free, but it won’t necessarily help us lose weight. Researchers from the University of Texas found that over the course of about a decade, diet soda drinkers had a 70 percent greater increase in waist circumference compared with nondrinkers. And get this: Participants who slurped down two or more diet sodas a day experienced a 500 percent greater increase in waist circumference. The way artificial sweeteners confuse the body may play a part, but another reason they contribute to weight gain might be psychological, says Minnesota-based registered dietitian Cassie Bjork. When we know we’re not consuming any liquid calories, it might be easier to justify that double cheeseburger or extra slice of pizza.

Excessive soda drinking could leave a person looking like a Breaking Bad extra, according to a case study published in the journal General Dentistry. With that being said, we can imagine what is bad for our teeth is also bad for our bones.

Tufts University researchers found that female soda drinkers, including those who drank diet soda, had nearly 4 percent lower bone mineral density in their hips than women who didn’t drink soda.

Diet soda is also associated with depression. A recent study presented at the American Academy of Neurology meeting found that over the course of 10 years, people who drank more than four cups of soda a day were 30 percent more likely to develop depression than those who steered clear of sugary drinks. The correlation held true for both regular and diet drinks. Other studies reveal artificial sweeteners are linked to headaches, including migraines.

Drinking one diet soda a day was associated with a 36 percent increased risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes in a University of Minnesota study. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions (including elevated blood sugar, large waist circumference, high blood pressure and cholesterol) that put people at high risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes. A Columbia University study found that people who drank one diet soda per day were 43 percent more likely to have experienced stroke or heart attack than those who drank none. Diet soda has no nutritional value. It may not have calories, but it also lacks anything that does our body any good.

Now that we have established that “diet” drinks are not a good choice, what are we to do to get off the holiday pounds? Start with the basics: exercise, eat a Paleo-based diet, and substitute plain water for the sodas (choose the fizzy stuff if missing the carbonation). If more help is needed, consider going to a medical professional who specializes in weight loss.

Patrick Lovegrove, DO, is a board-certified medical doctor and the founder of Merge Medical Center, a holistic medical center located in Mt. Pleasant, where he practices holistic internal medicine along with other natural health practitioners.

For more information, call 843-469-1001 or visit MergeMedicalCenter.com. See listing, page 38.

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NALowcountry.com

Why Everyone Needs Early Detection

by Shanna Rivera hat is the best test for possible early cancer detection? It’s medical thermography. The screening’s heat signatures reveal much about the body.

Is everything in balance? Are there certain areas that need attention, or is there one spot that needs further testing?

Thermography screenings are performed by a certified thermographic technician in a private exam room.

Thermographers take about 30 images of a person’s body with an infrared camera.

Those images are sent to PACT (the Professional Academy of Clinical Thermology) certified thermologists to interpret, compose a report, and, upon request, review the results with the individual.

Thermography may show heat imbalances as much as 10 years before detection of cancer through anatomical testing, such as mammograms, ultrasounds or MRIs.

If a screening shows heat imbalances anywhere in the body, it’s an indication that the individual may need to make some lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthier diet and getting regular exercise. Inflammation can be the precursor to cancer and other diseases.

A screening test can show areas to work on now to avoid potential future issues— as much as 10 years’ early detection!

Eighty percent of breast cancer cases in the U.S. have no family history, so everyone is encouraged to screen the breasts as well as the entire body for prevention.

Shanna Rivera is a certified thermographic technician. For more information, call 877-315-SCAN (7226), ext.

447, or visit btiScan.com. See listing, page 41.

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healthbriefs

Women’s Health Symposium

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study from Drexel University, in Philadelphia, has linked autism spectrum disorder with prenatal exposure to organochlorine chemicals. The researchers examined 1,144 children born in southern California between 2000 and 2003 with mothers that had enrolled in a state-sponsored prenatal screening program. Blood tests were taken during their second trimester of pregnancy, a critical time for neurodevelopment, to measure exposure to organochlorine chemicals, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and pesticides such as DDT. These compounds were banned from production in the U.S. in 1977, but remain in the environment.

It’s well known that they can cross the placental barrier, impacting neurodevelopment in fetuses.

The researchers selected participants based on previous health diagnoses: 545 children with autism spectrum disorder and 181 with intellectual disabilities, plus 418 free of both issues as a control group. They found a 50 to 82 percent increased autism risk in children with the highest levels of four identified PCB compounds in utero, based on which ones were present.

“The results suggest that prenatal exposure to these chemicals above a certain level may influence neurodevelopment in adverse ways,” says Kristen Lyall, Sc.D., assistant professor in the university’s A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, promising further related studies.

Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com

Autism Risk Linked to Banned Chemicals

Ayurvedic Program Improves Blood Chemistry

Ignite Your Purpose and Spark Your Passion Sat, Feb 11, 2017 10am-6pm James Island County Park Edisto Hall - 871 Riverland Dr Charleston, SC 29412

Presentations: • Hormone Harmony • How to Show up for your Life!

• Blazing Your Path with Purpose and Passion to Create Your Conscious Career • Unleash Your Personal Power • Laughing From The Heart: A Laughter Yoga Experience • Unleash Your Money, Mission, and Moxie in 2017 • Loving Self Care with Sacred Activation • Mastering Love, Men & Mojo Lunch, Snacks, Swag Bag with Goodies & more!

Discount tickets to the first 75 people

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For More Information & To Purchase Tickets: www.SoulBlossoms.org

pittawut/Shutterstock.com

clinical trial from the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine found that participants in a six-day, ayurvedic-based, well-being program showed metabolic improvements in blood tests for inflammation, cardiovascular disease risk (CDR) and cholesterol levels.

Study participants consisted of 119 healthy men and women between the ages of 30 and 80. Sixty-five experienced a panchakarma program, a detox and rejuvenation protocol involving a vegetarian diet, meditation, yoga, massage, herbal therapy and other healing therapies. The other 54 served as a control group. Blood was analyzed before and after the test period.

The researchers, led by Dr. Deepak Chopra, found measurable decreases in 12 phosphatidycholines (cell-membrane chemicals) associated with cholesterol, inflammation, CDR and Type 2 diabetes risk. They acknowledge that due to the short duration of the trial, the immediate changes were likely attributable to the vegetarian diet; more research is needed to determine the complementary role of the other therapies.

“It appears that a one-week panchakarma program can significantly alter the metabolic profile of the person undergoing it,” remarks Chopra.

How people treat

you is their karma; how you react is yours. ~Wayne Dyer

natural awakenings

January 2017

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Exercise in Midlife Helps Preserve Mental Sharpness

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Early-to-Bed Kids at Less Risk of Obesity

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esearch from the Ohio State University College of Public Health, in Columbus, suggests that the risk of childhood obesity, a growing concern in the U.S., can be reduced by putting children to bed before 8 p.m.

The researchers examined reports from mothers of 977 4-and-a-half-year-old children born in 1991 regarding their typical weekday bedtimes. The answers were divided into three categories: 8 p.m. or earlier, between 8 and 9 p.m. and later. Responses were compared to the obesity levels of the same children at an average age of 15.

Of the group with the earliest bedtime, comprising about 25 percent of the subjects, only one in 10 were obese, compared to 16 percent of those with childhood bedtimes between 8 and 9 p.m., representing 50 percent of the subjects. The youngsters that went to bed the latest reported a 23 percent obesity rate, the highest overall.

Dr. Meena Khan, a sleep medicine specialist at the university’s Wexner Medical Study Center, comments about the challenge of maintaining proper bedtimes: “Kids do well with a schedule and a routine.”

Parents Use Complementary Health Care for Kids

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Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com

he 2012 National Health Interview Survey, published in 2015, included a survey on the use of complementary medicine practices. Nearly 45,000 Americans were questioned, including more than 10,000 children between the ages of 4 and 17.

The survey found that nearly 12 percent of children had used complementary medicine, either in a practice or product, during the year studied. The most common form of alternative medicine among children was natural supplements, such as fish oil, probiotics and melatonin. Chiropractic care and yoga were also popular choices.

Researchers found that parents sought complementary approaches most often for children due to back or neck pain, musculoskeletal conditions, colds, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or insomnia.

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Pressmaster/Shutterstock.com Yuriy Chertok/Shutterstock.com

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study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease in July confirms that physical activity in midlife can help reduce the chances of developing cognitive impairment in old age. Scientists studied data on the physical activity levels from 3,050 twins in Finland given questionnaires in 1975 and 1981.

A phone interview more than 25 years later served as a follow-up cognitive evaluation, and the subjects were divided into three categories: cognitively impaired, suffering mild cognitive impairment or cognitively healthy. Individuals that participated in vigorous physical activity when they were middle-aged displayed lower levels of cognitive impairment compared to those that did less vigorous exercise.

Early Job Satisfaction Supports LongTerm Health

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esearchers from Ohio State University, in Columbus, started with data from 6,432 participants in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, conducted in 1979, to study the impact that early job satisfaction has upon health as we age. The new study examined reports of job satisfaction on a scale of one (dislike very much) to four (like very much) for participants between the ages of 25 and 39. Then they compared the responses to mental and physical health reports measured after the participants turned 40.

Those that reported low job satisfaction throughout their 20s and 30s exhibited higher levels of emotional problems, depression, sleep problems and excessive worry. Individuals that started out satisfied with their jobs but became less satisfied over time also faced sleep and anxiety difficulties, but exhibited less depression. The participants that reported increasing job satisfaction in their 20s and 30s reported fewer mental health problems.

The correlation between physical health after 40 and early job satisfaction was not as strong, but university associate professor of sociology Hui Zheng notes, “Increased anxiety and depression could lead to cardiovascular or other health problems that won’t show up until they are older.”

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

Reforesting India

Massive Tree-Planting Against Climate Change

szefei/Shutterstock.com

Indian officials report that volunteers planted more than 49 million trees on a single day in 2016, surpassing the 2013 world record of 850,000 in Pakistan. An estimated 800,000 volunteers worked for 24 hours planting 80 species of saplings raised in local nurseries along roads, railways and other public land.

The effort is part of the commitment India made at the Paris Climate Conference in December 2015.

The country agreed to spend $6 billion to reforest 12 percent of its land and bring the total forest cover to 235 million acres by 2030, or about 29 percent of its territory.

Trees sequester carbon dioxide from the air and reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. India has experienced substantial loss of its forest cover in recent centuries as people cut down trees for firewood, pasture and development. Still, saplings need water and care and are susceptible to disease. Mortality rates can reach 40 percent after such massive tree plantings.

Other countries are also replanting trees. Last December, African nations pledged to reforest 100 million hectares (386 square miles). A wide range of stakeholders from countries to companies also signed on to the non-binding New York Declaration of Forests that month, with the goal of halving deforestation by 2020 and ending it by 2030.

Source: National Geographic

If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one. ~Dolly Parton

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

Maryland Bans Bee-Killing Pesticides Maryland is the first state in the nation to pass strict restrictions on pesticides thought to be responsible for significant reductions in bee populations with enactment of its Pollinator Protection Act. Maryland lost more than 60 percent of its hives in 2015, each containing up to 20,000 honeybees, making it one of the states with the highest recorded declines. The national average is about 42 percent, yet across the country, farmers and gardeners are still using pesticides linked to colony collapse disorder. Globally, more than one-third of the world’s food supply could be at risk if these and other pollinators are lost.

Neonicotinoids are one potent class of systemic pesticides introduced to agriculture in the 1990s that have been linked to bees’ demise. In recent years, pesticides such as Knockout Ready-to-Use Grub Killer, Ortho Bug B Gon, and All-In-One Rose & Flower Care have been made available to consumers and beekeepers have noticed a corresponding increase in bee deaths.

The Maryland law bans the use of neonicotinoids by everyday consumers that have been spraying home gardens and trees with these deadly pesticides.

Farmers and professional gardeners are exempt from the law. A similar law is awaiting the governor’s signature in Connecticut. Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has not officially recognized the well-researched link, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing it.

Source: BeyondPesticides.org

Vaclav Volrab | Dreamstime.com

Chill With Your Soul Mate

Protecting Pollinators

StudioSmart/Shutterstock.com

globalbriefs

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January 2017

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Smog Begone

California Aims Even Higher on Emission Controls

Website Screens Packaging for Toxin Although food manufacturers have pledged to voluntarily eliminate bisphenol A (BPA)—an endocrine disruptor linked to developmental problems in fetuses, infants and children—in their packaging materials, it’s still found in the lining of many canned goods.

Recent testing by an advocacy group found BPA in 70 percent of nearly 200 samples, including products from Campbell and Kroger, which have joined the pledge.

“It’s in beer, coffee, tea, energy drinks and aerosol cans for whipped cream... it’s everywhere,” says Samara Geller, a database and research analyst with the Environmental Working Group (EWG). According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, BPA is safe at the levels people are exposed to via canned foods, but many consumers would rather not take the risk.

Consequently, EWG created a new tool to help consumers avoid the 16,000 products that may have BPA in their packaging. The numbers listed on package UPC codes can be compared against the database at Tinyurl.com/EWG-BPA-Lookup.

“Our main goal was to get this out quickly to as many people as possible,” says Geller. “The UPC code is really your best defense to finding out what they’re talking about,” because product names can change.

Lobster Liberation

Monks Free Creatures from Certain Doom A handful of monks from the Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute Society living on Canada’s Prince Edward Island spent a day buying up all the live lobsters they could find at the local fish market, and then chartered a boat. Once out to sea, they recited a brief prayer over their writhing cargo and set them loose in the Atlantic.

“The whole purpose for us is to cultivate this compassion toward others,” says one of the monks. “It doesn’t have to be lobsters, it can be worms, flies, any animals; it can also be driving slower, so we don’t run over little critters on the street.”

One participant, Victoria Fan, says, “It’s rethinking the way you normally see these creatures. Their happiness is as important as your happiness, their suffering is as important as your suffering.”

Source: TheDodo.com 12

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Recirculating Jet Air Linked to Illness JONGSUK/Shutterstock.com

Eat Safer

Airline Air

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Source: MSN.com

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California lawmakers have enacted a bill that aims to reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. It extends previous efforts such as the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 instituted to reduce emissions by 2020, along with another piece of legislation that vows to boost legislative oversight of climate change programs organized by the California Air Resources Board.

Supporters say that emissions rules have created new jobs and led to billions of dollars of investment in California’s clean energy sector. Opponents argue that the strict targets have caused some job losses, particularly in oil manufacturing.

The state, having the world’s eighth-largest economy, has further announced a goal of fighting climate change and improving air quality by putting 1.5 million zero-emission state cars on the road by 2025.

Aerotoxic syndrome is the medical term for the illness caused by exposure to contaminated air in jet aircraft, and it’s causing that ailment, plus the permanent disability and even death of airline employees and passengers. Whistleblowers have been met with ridicule and termination. The problem has been called the “asbestos of the airline industry” by critics. French scientist Jean-Cristophe Balouet, Ph.D., who discovered the syndrome in 1999, thinks it may have already affected 250,000 pilots, cabin crew and passengers worldwide.

In 1963, aircraft moved from drawing fresh air into the cabin to “bleeding” part of it from the engines. The synthetic oil used by jets contains organophosphates used in pesticides and nerve gas, and was banned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for residential use in 2001 because of known toxicity.

The byproducts of these carcinogenic organophosphates can also include aldehydes and carbon monoxide.

Airplane seals wear out and there are no chemical sensors onboard aircraft to detect fumes— only noses to detect the “dirty sock” odor. The Aerotoxic Association continues to push for air quality detectors on all planes and the Cabin Air Quality Act sponsored by California Senator Dianne Feinstein.

For more information, visit Aerotoxic.org.

readersnapshot Who’s a Natural Awakenings Reader?

Meet Emily Handren—Charleston Resident, CEO and Founder of Mind Love Body

Tell our readers a little about yourself: I’ve always known I wanted to help people.

In 2010, I became a certified yoga instructor. I continued my journey towards helping people by completing my Master of Science degree in professional counseling in 2013. I worked as a licensed professional associate counselor but found the counseling industry to be focused more on fixing “broken” people than raising people up to be the best versions of themselves.

Disappointed, I returned to the insurance industry and built two multimillion dollar life and health insurance agencies. Financially, I was at the top of my game, and I spent every day looking perfect and successful, but emotionally and physically I was at the bottom. I left the business and my fiancé/business partner, who was emotionally abusive, and felt like I was losing my own identity. I left with no money and only the stuff that could fit in my car. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, but I knew if I ever wanted to help people, I had to start by helping myself.

I started the healing process by reading a lot and training for 5K and 10K races. Through the help of a coach, I found a way to channel my painful experiences into motivation, and I kept training for higher and higher fitness accomplishments. From my physical training, I was able to change my mindset, switching food from a pleasure to fuel.

I now give my body what it needs to flourish while still enjoying my life. My physical transformation took me from 155 pounds and over 35 percent body fat to 118 pounds and 12 percent body fat during fitness competitions. Now, I maintain a healthy 127 pounds and 17 percent body fat by following my simple system.

Eventually, the combination of physical fitness and personal develop-

ment training allowed me to let go of so much baggage I had been carrying around. I learned that life is about the journey, and it is filled with so many valuable, unique experiences. I am truly grateful that my life’s journey led me to a new level of enlightenment. I am so excited for the opportunity to share this with others and help guide people to become the best versions of themselves.

Work/mission: My mission is to heal minds with love, inspire others to live life with loving kindness, and to love the body with nourishment. My ultimate goal with healing the mind is to create a physical body that matches your inner soul.

I assist clients with sustaining a positive mindset in order to achieve a healthy weight. I have been blessed with opportunities from my business and personal life to create custom programs that guide anyone through a transformation of the mind, body and soul. I know that this is not only my mission, it is my purpose.

Other interests/passions: I love reading and learning. I enjoy going to museums and art galleries. I spend most days mountain biking or hiking with my dogs, Lucy Liu and Mary Bella.

I travel at least twice a month, fulfilling my desire to explore. Otherwise, I enjoy spending time with friends, meeting new people, and trying new things.

What do you like most about Natural Awakenings?

I admire that Natural Awakenings is an all-natural and health-focused resource for anyone wanting to lead a healthy lifestyle. I always enjoy the articles on green living and eco-friendly habits— especially the all-natural pet foods. ;) Emily Handren can be reached at Emily@MindLoveBody.com and MindLoveBody.com. She is offering readers a 2017 New Year deal of 75 percent off and a special gift for all new clients who mention Natural Awakenings.

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communityspotlight

Spreading Local Love: An Interview with Jordan Amaker, Director of Marketing and Communications of Lowcountry Local First

by Jennifer Iamele Savage

L

owcountry Local First (LLF) promotes a lifestyle that celebrates what it loves most: the local, independent businesses and farmers who reflect the unique character, flavor and culture of the beautiful place we call home. LLF aims to empower people of the lowcountry to make choices that support its uniqueness and beauty.

How can interested businesses get involved?

Amaker: Matt Bauer, of BetterWorld Telecom, attended a BALLE (Business Alliance for Local Living Economies) conference in 2006. Being new to Charleston, Matt decided to put together a steering committee to work on developing an organization that supported a localized economy. Jamee Haley met Matt during the early stages and was in the process of winding down her pillow and bedding design business. The organization’s core values resonated with her as a business owner and as someone who moved to Charleston to attend culinary school at Johnson & Wales. Jamee quickly took the reins, and in 2007, LLF acquired its IRS designation as a 501(c)(3).

How does LLF serve the lowcountry?

Amaker: As the lowcountry’s only nonprofit advocating on behalf of locally owned, independent businesses, we believe in an economy that works for all. We believe in a local economy that is resilient 14

NA Lowcountry Edition

and a community that thrives with support for our neighbors and a belief that we can—and should—be unlike any other place. Our work includes local economic development; training and support for local business owners; awareness and education efforts aimed at the general public; and advocacy for policies that recognize the importance of a strong, diverse local economy.

Can you explain specifically how LLF works to promote local businesses?

Amaker: To fulfill our mission, we organize most of our efforts under two categories: Good Business and Good Farming. Our Good Business initiative supports sustainable entrepreneurship and business development and is designed to foster and catalyze

NALowcountry.com

Amaker: We have various membership levels for businesses and a Localist program for individuals who may not work for a local business but believe in this work. All membership options include the Local Business badge and brand identity tools for public awareness; inclusion in our online Local Business directory; various levels of visibility; access to monthly member mixers; and discounts at our other events.

© LLF Blockparty 2015 A Chandler

How did LLF get started?

local, independent retailers; manufacturers; professional service providers; and more.

Our Good Farming initiative supports sustainable agriculture and is designed to grow and connect our local food system by training new farmers, supporting existing farm businesses, and educating consumers.

What have been some of LLF’s greatest successes?

Amaker: We truly feel we have created a movement around supporting locally owned, independent businesses and farmers and made “local” a part of our

everyday lexicon. We created a 10 percent shift by encouraging consumers, business owners, and government agencies to shift at least 10 percent of their spending to local businesses. By developing the Growing New Farmers Program, we have impacted 147 farmers and food system leaders. We also launched the first incubator farm in the state in 2012; and, in 2014, developed Local Works, our co-working space, as a place for local business owners to have an affordable place to work and collaborate. In 2013, we hosted the first Good Business Summit to provide an opportunity for business owners to gain practical skills, inspiration and learn how to use business as a force for good.

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Amaker: We always lean on and appreciate volunteer support for our events as well as ongoing support for our membership management. Ultimately, we need everyone to be a voice in support of local businesses. Even small daily decisions add up quickly and make a huge impact. We believe as consumers you have a choice. It is your choice to choose the lowcountry with your dollars, your vote, your voice, and your heart.

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For more information, visit LowcountryLocalFirst.org.

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January 2017

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The Truth About Mold Exposure After Flooding by the COEM Team

October marked the one-year anniversary of the historic “1,000year flood” caused by more than two feet of rain that fell across large parts of South Carolina’s Midlands and Lowcountry. In a twist of fate, the one-year anniversary coincided with the arrival of Hurricane Matthew, which unleashed its fury on much of the Southeast coast with heavy winds, rain and storm surge. Both October weather events caused tremendous damage and, tragically, loss of life. While some homes are more flood-prone than environmental medicine physician, others, just about all homes are at risk of water damage from should be consulted. A comprehensive either indoor water sources and/or the results of heavy rainfall. health history and physical Please read the following carefully so that indoor water problems do not become financial, emotional or health disasters. n Mold (fungi), mold spores and their particulates as well as poisons that off-gas from mold (called mycotoxins) can be very dangerous, especially to people with allergies or weakened immune systems. Like pollen, mold spores are inhaled and often colonize in the sinuses. It is now known that each spore can contain anywhere from 250 to 500 smaller particles that become the vehicle through which mycotoxins enter the body. n Fungi, such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, Stachybotrys, Cladosporium and Alternaria, are commonly found indoors at levels capable of causing adverse health effects after flooding or heavy rainfall, such as occurred last year and the year before. n Mold exposure can cause adverse health effects by three mechanisms: infection, allergy and toxic effects from mycotoxins. Mold exposure is associated with about 96 percent of all chronic sinusitis patients and about 93 percent of chronic fatigue patients.

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As explained in the article Explosion of Mold Cases in Homes, Workplaces and Occupational Medicine Practice (see reference page 17), 48 patients heavily exposed to mold were examined and found to have the following health problems: 1. Muscle and joint pain (71%) 2. Fatigue and weakness (70%) 3. Neurocognitive dysfunction (67%)—such as worsening memory and concentration 4. Sinusitis (65%) 5. Headaches (65%) 6. Gastrointestinal problems (58%)— such as nausea and vomiting 7. Shortness of breath (54%) 8. Anxiety/depression/irritability (54%) 9. Chest tightness (42%) 10. Insomnia (40%) 11. Dizziness (38%) 12. Numbness/tingling (35%) 13. Laryngitis (35%) 14. Tremors (25%) 15. Heart palpitations (21%) The point is that every system in the body can be adversely affected by mold exposure.

After a known or suspected mold exposure, evaluation by a specialist properly trained to diagnosis and treat mold toxicity, such as an

NALowcountry.com

examination, along with appropriate laboratory testing, are required to arrive at a definitive diagnosis and to formulate the most effective treatment plan.

Testing can include: 1. Mold and mycotoxin antibody levels 2. Autoimmune markers 3. Allergy testing for molds

Treatment for mold exposure and mold toxicity is individualized and might include anti-fungal medicines, allergy/ immunotherapy, nutritional/herbal supplementation, intravenous vitamin and mineral supplementation, and a formal program of biodetoxification. Treatment is designed to reduce the total toxic load of a patient, including chemical, biological and social/ psychological stressors.

The best way to avoid mold exposure is to prevent water or moisture intrusion, as mold will not grow heavily indoors in the absence of moisture. Indoor water problems, such as a leaky pipe, should be fixed, and wood floors and carpets should be dried within 24 hours to prevent mold buildup.

chlorine bleach.

One should use grapefruit seed extract liquid when washing the skin or clothes.

If one must enter a potentially moldy environment, he or she should wear protective gear.

1. First, the nose, mouth and eyes should be protected with a tightfitting respirator mask.

2. Gloves should be worn.

3. Mold-exposed clothing or shoes should not enter a mold-free environment, as mold spores are quite small and can cling to porous materials. One should take a shower and wash his or her hair immediately afterward.

4. A hazmat suit might be useful for a person particularly susceptible to mold.

For large mold clean up jobs (mold growth covering more than 10 square feet), it is highly recommend that a professional company specializing in mold remediation be contacted. In the event one does attempt any personal remediation, the use of products with concrobium are recommended to clean mold in a home or building. Do not use

Do not take moisture intrusions and mold lightly. Wood furniture can be cleaned, but upholstered furniture and mattresses should be thrown out to avoid mold spores that are present on their surfaces from colonizing previously remediated areas.

One should pay attention to the body’s signs and symptoms, especially memory, concentration and behavior.

If changes develop, a physician should be consulted immediately. Long-term exposure to mold in general, and short term exposure by individuals with weaker immune systems, previous exposures, or severe allergies can result in serious health problems.

References: Curtis L, Lieberman A, Stark M, Rea M, Vetter M. “Adverse Health Effects of Indoor Molds.” Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (Sept 2004) 14(3) 261-274.

Lieberman, A. “Explosion of Mold Cases in Homes, Workplaces and Occupational Medicine Practices.”

Presented at the 21st Annual

Symposium on Man and His Environment in Health and Disease, Dallas, Texas, 19-22 June 2003.

Liebowitz, R, Waltzman M, Jacobs J, Pearlman A, Tierro P. “Isolation of Fungi

by Standard Laboratory Methods in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis.”

Laryngoscope 2002; 112(12):2189-91.

Vodjani A, Campbell A, Kashanian A, Vodjani E. “Antibodies Against Molds and Mycotoxins Following Exposure to Toxigenic Fungi in Water-Damaged Buildings.” Archives of Environmental Health 2003; 58(^):324-36.

Vodjani, A, Thrasher J, Madison M, Gray M, Heuser G, Campbell A. “Antibodies to Molds and Satratoxin in Individuals in a Water-Damaged Building.” Archives of Environmental Health 2003; 58(7):421-32.

Vodjani, A. “Health Effects and Immunotoxicology of Toxigenic Molds and Mycotoxins.” Presented at the 21st International Symposium of Man and His Environment in Health and Disease, Dallas, Texas, 20 June 2003.

Drs. Lieberman, Weirs and Herbert are specialists trained in environmental medicine. The Center for Occupational & Environmental Medicine has been treating patients for allergies and mold exposure/mold toxicity for more than 40 years. For more information, call 843-572-1600 or visit coem.com. See ads, pages 2 and 42, listings, pages 40 and 41.

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value coverage that includes annual wellness exams, phone or virtual appointments and educational classes, plus followups and urgent care at minimal costs.

The U.S. mainstream fee-for-service approach, whether paid by insurance or cash, has been criticized for encouraging unnecessary tests and procedures because doctors are paid for services performed. To maintain income, they typically shorten appointments to increase the number of patients they see.

Lewis emphasizes, “Time is the valuable factor in DPC—healthy lifestyle changes, which can prevent or reverse 70 percent of health concerns, cannot be communicated in 10 minutes.”

Medical Cost-Sharing

AFFORDABLE

For generations, Christian communities have operated health care sharing ministries (HCSM) to collectively share the cost of each other’s medical bills as an alternative to outside insurance. Members are exempt from current Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA) mandates.

Liberty HealthShare, a nonprofit HCSM chartered by the Mennonite church, believes that everyone has the right to practice religion as they see fit.

Their members share a commitment to personal health and sharing in the burden of health expenses with others that have these values.

“Many in the functional and integrative medical arenas also believe in these principles,” says Tom Blue, of Richmond, Virginia, a director with The Institute for Functional Medicine.

“Cost sharing feels very familiar; you present your card to your provider, but there’s no set network of providers, which is favorable for those seeking more progressive forms of care.”

Expanding upon this model, Blue worked with the company to create its Liberty Direct program (LibertyDirect.org).

Individuals pay an annual membership fee plus a monthly share amount. After fulfilling their annual unshared amount of out-of-pocket expenses (similar to a deductible), participants’ healthcare costs—including approved naturopathic and alternative treatments—can be submitted as expenses to be shared by the group.

Liberty Direct provides financial advantages to DPC practitioners and patients by subsidizing membership fees; it favors nutrition over chronic prescription dependence by reimbursing physician-prescribed nutritional supplement and pharmaceutical expenses under the same terms.

Members must be in good health with a lifestyle that helps sustain wellness, including good nutrition, exercise and abstinence from tobacco use and drug and alcohol abuse.

The program also accepts approximately 7 percent of applicants on provisional terms when pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, obesity and diabetes can be improved through lifestyle changes. They pay an extra fee per month to cover the cost of a health coach; when they achieve their goals, they become full members paying regular rates.

Complementary Care

Alternatives to Insurance Cost Less

by Meredith Montgomery

T

he latest National Health Interview Survey available, from 2012, shows an annual expenditure of $30.2 billion in out-of-pocket costs for complementary health approaches, benefiting 33 percent of adults and 12 percent of children, and representing about 10 percent of out-of-pocket U.S. healthcare costs. Insurance rarely covers complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in full. As provider networks shrink, premiums rise and the future of healthcare reform remains uncertain, health-conscious consumers yearn for innovative ways to afford this kind of care.

Membership-Based Care

When Dr. Chad Krisel worked at an urgent care center, he saw up to 55 patients a day. Since opening Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville (IntegrativeAsheville.org), in North Carolina, with Dr. Brian Lewis, he averages 12 patients a day. His team provides a membership-based practice in a payment model known as direct primary care (DPC).

Endorsed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, DPC is broadly accessible. By applying simplicity, sustainability, quality and collaboration, their integrative practice provides comprehensive care for less than what many pay for phone service. “DPC removes traditional financial incentives and conflicts of interest because membership fees fund us. Our only incentive is to help and heal patients,” Krisel explains.

Paying for memberships out-of-pocket (often electing high-deductible plans) or via a health-sharing plan, clients 18

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Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com

healingways

“The economics are staggering,” says Blue, who used to pay $760 a month for insurance with a $12,400 deductible and now pays a monthly share of $449 with a family unshared amount of $1,500. HCSMs are affordable because of restricted overhead budgets.

Plus, they appeal to natural-health conscious clients and can decline unsuitable applicants. “This concept of communal cost sharing works—Liberty’s share amounts decreased in 2013 and have not changed since,” comments Blue.

ACA penalties and traditional health insurance,” says Gray. “More, we’re a grassroots movement for change.”

Krisel notes, “Doctors too, are livid about the current status of America’s healthcare system. Be vocal about what’s important to you. The more

voices heard in Washington, the more change we’ll see.”

Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/ Mississippi (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet. com).

And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been. ~Rainer Maria Rilke

GreenSurance

Told she was past medical hope, Kari Gray, of Kahului, Hawaii, sought to heal from cancer using natural medicine.

“When thousands of dollars spent for natural protocols were denied reimbursement by my insurance company, I saw that the system needs to change,” Gray recalls.

CAM therapies still deemed “unproven” by traditional insurance companies gave Gray a second chance at life. Following remission, she began a 20-year search for alternative medicine insurance. Finding none, in 2014, she created GreenSurance (MyGreenSurance.com).

Serving people that proactively care for their health and prefer natural medicine as primary care, GreenSurance developed an evidence-based and science-backed list of 40-plus covered CAM modalities, including thermography, energy therapy, biofeedback, essential oils and homeopathy. It also covers conventional medical and emergency care.

Enrollees of the member-owned organization are supplied third-party payer information for provider direct billing once the member’s out-of-pocket amount is met. They use any statelicensed provider and the program is often more affordable than traditional insurance.

GreenSurance is currently investing resources to broaden consumer access to the tax advantages of a health spending account (HSA). H.R. 1752 would allow enrollees in any healthcare-sharing program to open an HSA. “Simply, we’re a co-op whose members empower us to create an exempt program that protects members from natural awakenings

January 2017

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SABOTEURS Tackling Obesity’s Hidden Causes

by Lisa Marshall

E

at less, move more. These words have been the cornerstone of diet advice for decades, leading millions of Americans to greet the new year with vows to cut calories and hit the gym. In all, one in five U.S. adults are dieting at any given time, according to the international market research firm The NPD Group, and 57 percent would like to lose 20 pounds or more.

Yet few will reach that goal.

One survey of 14,000 dieters published in the International Journal of Obesity found that only one in six had ever been able to lose 10 percent of their body weight and keep it off for a year. Another study, published in the last year in Obesity, followed up with 14 contestants from the 2009 TV reality show The Biggest Loser and found that despite efforts to keep their eating and exercise habits on track, 13 had regained significant weight since the competition. Four are heavier now than before participating on the show.

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Diet experts say the battle of the bulge has been exceedingly hard to win for one clear reason: We’re oversimplifying the solution and underestimating the saboteurs. “We’re learning that it’s not as simple as calories-in and calories-out,” says Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith, an Ann Arbor, Michigan, physician specializing in functional and nutritional medicine and author of Why You Can’t Lose Weight.

Research reveals that everything from food allergies to hormone imbalances and disruptions in gut bacteria can subtly undermine the best-laid weight management plans. Working out too much or eating too little can also backfire. Even a mean boss or a cold workplace cubicle can factor in.

Certainly, diet and exercise are key, experts emphasize. Yet, if we’re doing all the right things and still seeing disappointing numbers on the scale, there’s still more we can do. Here are some common weight-loss saboteurs and what to do about them.

NALowcountry.com

Yuriy Rachenkov/Shutterstock.com

WEIGHT-LOSS

Bite into a food we’re sensitive to and our body switches into “fight-or-flight” mode. It stores fat and water, releases histamines that widen blood vessels and inflame tissue, and cranks out stress hormones like epinephrine and norepinephrine that make us want to eat more of that food.

“You literally get a high so that you crave more,” says Smith. She notes that unlike true allergies, which can prompt an immediate reaction, food intolerances often manifest subtly over several days.

When we are repeatedly exposed to a food we’re sensitive to, we feel bloated and sluggish, regardless of the calorie count.

Allergy medications can also prompt weight gain, in part by boosting appetite. One study by Yale researchers found people that regularly ingested antihistamines like Zyrtec and Allegra were far more likely to be overweight than those not using them.

What to do: First, cut out the most-craved foods.

“If someone tells me they just cannot live without cheese, I assume they are allergic to it,” says Smith. Or, try an elimination diet. Ban common allergens like milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and gluten (if possible, try sticking to only rice and lamb—two hypoallergenic foods— for four days).

Then reintroduce other foods slowly and monitor the results. To combat seasonal allergies naturally, try vitamin C, quercetin and butterbur supplements.

Alan Poulson Photography/Shutterstock.com

Food Sensitivity/Allergy

Underperforming Thyroid

The thyroid serves as a key metabolism regulator, dictating how efficiently the heart beats and muscles contract, how quickly the body turns nutrients into energy, and how well we burn off stored fat. When thyroid hormone production falls, metabolism can also decrease by as much as 40 percent.

Yet as many as four in 13 women suffer from a thyroid hormone deficiency, says Toronto naturopathic doctor Natasha Turner, author of the new book The Hormone Boost. “You can diet and exercise until you are blue in the face, but if your thyroid is out of balance, you won’t achieve the body you’re looking for,” she says. “It’s a common cause of weight gain.”

What to do: Get tested for levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and, if possible, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) also. TSH signals the thyroid to make more T4, the inactive form of thyroid hormone that is converted into T3, the form the body is able to use.

Abnormal blood levels of any of these can impact metabolism adversely, and a TSH test alone may be unable to identify a problem, caution Smith and Turner.

In some cases, medication may be required.

Otherwise, move to embrace lifestyle habits that reduce stress levels, because the stress hormone cortisol can inhibit thyroid function. Get eight hours of sleep; sleep deprivation also impairs thyroid function. Eat lots of fiber, which helps the body eliminate excess estrogen and other thyroiddamaging metabolic byproducts.

Also, stock up on foods containing tyrosine (almonds and avocadoes), and selenium (Brazil nuts). In some cases, if an iodine deficiency is at play, a doctor may suggest iodine supplements or iodine-rich foods like kelp and sea bass.

Imbalanced Gut

The trillions of microorganisms in our gut have a profound impact on our ability to maintain a healthy weight, says Dr. Raphael Kellman, a New York City physician

practicing functional medicine and author of The Microbiome Diet.

“The gut bacteria are the gatekeepers of the calories that enter our body,” he explains.

Research shows that certain species of bacteria aid in the metabolizing of carbohydrates, while others help break down fats and protein.

Some turn on genes that fight inflammation; others influence how well the body responds to insulin. Diversity and balance of helpful bacteria species are keys to health.

“If changes in the percentages of certain bacteria occur, the microbiome loses its ability to help us maintain a healthy weight,” says Kellman. In one landmark 21st-century study by University of Colorado researchers, swapping the gut bacteria of a skinny mouse with that of an obese one made the skinny mouse gain weight.

What to do: Go easy on antibiotics, which can wipe out gut bacteria diversity. Load up on fermented foods like kim chi, sauerkraut, kefir and yogurt. Eat lots of inulin-containing plant fiber to give desirable bacteria something to chew on, and consider taking a probiotic supplement until weight loss and health goals are achieved.

Overdoing Diets

As The Biggest Loser contestants learned, losing too much weight too fast can bring metabolism to a screeching halt; the body, coaxed into starvation mode, moves to conserve fuel and store fat.

“If you try to lose weight by drastically slashing calorie intake and going crazy on the cardio machines, you’ll do more harm than good,” says Turner. Performing intense cardiovascular exercise such as running, cycling or swimming for more than 45 minutes can make cortisol levels surge, accelerating muscle loss and impairing

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the immune system. That’s counterproductive because muscles burn calories at rest, too. Consistent over-exercise can also prompt the stressed body to respond in a fight-or-flight fashion, storing more belly fat and leading to the “skinny but fat” body composition common among models and marathon runners, she says.

Skipping meals can prompt the key thyroid hormone T3 to fall off too, further slowing metabolism. Plus, six weeks into a restrictive weight-loss program, levels of the feel-good hormones dopamine and serotonin also start to decline, killing motivation and fueling cravings. The result is a weight plateau or even weight gain.

What to do: Unless walking, limit workouts to 40 minutes, advises Turner. Instead of slogging away at a steady pace on the treadmill, try intervals (short, high-intensity efforts separated by brief rest periods), which have been shown to boost both fat burning and cardiovascular fitness.

For example: five-minute warm-up, one-minute run at fast pace, one-minute run at moderate pace, repeat 10 times,

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Dark, Cold, Stressful Workplaces

Alan Hedge, Ph.D., a workplace design researcher with Cornell University, in New York, says women, who tend to have less muscle and body hair to provide natural warmth, are at particular risk of packing on pounds due to an overly cold environment. “When the body is cold, it adapts by laying down insulation, which is fat,” he says. Even without eating extra calories, if we’re constantly cold at work, as 31 percent of women are according to a recent CareerBuilder survey, we tend to gain about a pound or two per year, says Hedge.

Other research, conducted at Northwestern University, in Illinois, shows that workers exposed to more light in the morning weigh about 1.4 pounds less on average than those toiling in windowless cubicles. The suspected reason is that morning light triggers a cascade of hormones that positively impact appetite and metabolism. Another study, by Ohio State University researchers, found women that experienced a stressful event at work or elsewhere and then ate a fatand calorie-laden meal the next day burned 100 fewer calories from that meal than non-stressed workers.

What to do: At work, move the desk toward a window or at least take a walk every morning. Bring a space heater, extra sweater or hot tea fixings.

After an ultra-stressful workday, eat especially healthfully that night.

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

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five-minute cool-down. Also, incorporate strength training into three workouts each week.

Include some fat, protein and carbohydrates with every meal. If insisting on counting calories, shoot for 450 to 500 per meal and 150 per snack for women; 500 to 600 per meal and 200 to 300 per snack for men. Every week to 10 days, enjoy a carb-loaded “cheat meal” such as pancakes or pasta; it supports any languishing thyroid and feel-good hormones, gives associated neurotransmitters a jump-start and keeps us from feeling deprived.

Natural Slimming Supplements Ashwaghanda root: While research is scarce, this Indian herb is traditionally believed to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol (which can boost belly fat storage). It’s also believed to boost conversion of the thyroid hormone T4 to the more metabolically active thyroid hormone T3. Doctor of Naturopathy Natasha Turner recommends 500 to 1,000 milligrams (mg) twice daily.

Chromium: This mineral plays a key role in enhancing insulin’s action in the body. Numerous studies by U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers and others suggest that taking chromium supplements can stabilize blood sugar, potentially reducing the cravings and energy slumps that come with glucose spikes and dips. Research on chromium’s impact on body composition and weight has been mixed. Turner recommends 200 to 400 micrograms (mcg) daily.

Curcumin: This golden spice, found in turmeric, curbs painful joint inflammation from over-exercising, and has been shown by Tufts University and Columbia University researchers to improve fat metabolism in mice.

L-carnitine: Helps the body use fat for fuel more efficiently and also can be used as an energy booster before cardio or strength training. Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith recommends 500 to 1,000 mg daily.

Omega-3 fatty acids: In addition to being potent anti-inflammatory agents, the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA have been associated with greater weight and fat loss when added to a diet and exercise program, according to studies in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and the International Journal of Obesity.

Prebiotics: These undigested fibers provide food for good gut bacteria to keep the digestive system and metabolism on track.

Probiotics: These are generally believed to promote healthy gut bacteria so that the body metabolizes food more efficiently. One recent study in the British Journal of Nutrition followed 125 obese men and women throughout a 12-week diet, followed by a 12-week maintenance period, and found that the women taking probiotics containing the bacterial strain Lactobacillus rhamnosis lost significantly more weight during the diet than women that didn’t; plus, they continued to lose weight during the maintenance period. The men studied did not show similar results.

Selenium: Selenium is critical for the conversion of inactive T4 to active T3 that the body can make use of. Smith recommends 100 to 200 mcg daily.

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localwisdom

Returning to Our Original Wisdom and Original Goodness

by Meghan Don

M

y first visit to South Carolina included a visit to Mepkin Abbey, where I was enfolded into the richness and beauty of the land with the grand oak trees, the river, ponds and creeks, and creatures wandering and bathing in complete ease with their human companions. Whenever I witness this ease, I know there is a deeper spirit at work. This spirit at the Abbey is one of deep silence, peace and respect, clearly born through the many years of contemplation and prayer entered into by the resident monks.

My soul, a lover of nature, beauty and inner silence, was grateful to be there.

Returning a few months later with a group on retreat, we encountered all of the above and something else: a joy of the soul. As we ventured into the wildflower labyrinth, with the flowers having grown almost 4-feet tall, we could not see how large the labyrinth was nor could we see where we were going at all. We started to laugh as we saw each other’s faces weaving in and out of the flowers. We began to run as we felt the pure innocence of our inner (and outer) child running free, and we no longer cared that we didn’t know where we were going, or how long it would take, or if we were doing it right.

We were simply being the freedom of who we were. What joy! And what wisdom.

For too long, humanity has been carrying a faulty image of itself, and this is especially evident in the feminine nature.

We were all born in the state of Original Goodness—we have done nothing

wrong—and yet we carry around in our being this underlying shame of not being good enough. We were also born in, and into, Original Wisdom—a wisdom far surpassing our worldly knowledge— which takes us into a vast and divine understanding, ever ready to reveal to humanity new ways of being for creating in our world. How do we return to these original states?

Firstly, it is vital to listen deeply to your soul, to become so intimate with yourself that following the inner feeling becomes as natural as breathing your own breath. In order to do this, we need to become skilled in discernment. As Teresa of Avila wrote, “We have many voices, and we must learn to discern which ones to listen to.”

Discernment comes from sitting in the well of silence and allowing all things to filter through. This filtering process allows surface wants and needs to dissolve, and gradually, as we settle deeper into our soul in a truly restful way does

Wisdom reveal herself. More than ever, we need Wisdom to spread her breath upon our earth and world, and it is only through us that this will happen.

To truly receive we need to know that we are good enough to be the recipients of all manner of blessings—spiritual, emotional and material. This is where we need to connect with our Original Goodness, truly knowing that our innate nature was born into the human form with a divine image. As a female spiritual practitioner, teacher and mentor, the body has always been important on my journey.

The body reveals to me messages about my deep inner feelings, it transports me into divine experiences through sacred chant and dance, and it allows me to embody what I am taught as I walk in the everyday life and world. If I do not know the basic Goodness of my humanity and my body, there will inevitably be obstacles that arise in life, and especially in being able to receive.

The feminine nature is in a great time of rising, and the beauty and gift of the feminine is her multifaceted nature.

By honoring all of who we are, we enter into our uniqueness—one of the faces of Wisdom—and by doing so we also come to know our Goodness. May we all be blessed with rising into who we are and take our rightful place in the world for the good of all.

Meghan Don is the founder and guide of The Gnostic Grace Circle, an awardwinning author, mentor and retreat presenter. Her newly released book is The New Divine Feminine: Spiritual Evolution for a Woman’s Soul. She will be teaching a retreat at Mepkin Abbey, January 27-29. See ad, page 15.

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fitbody

Body Sculpt with Kettlebells Workouts Burn Fat and Tone Muscle

by Taylor Geiger

Kettlebell training promotes fat loss, toning of major muscle groups and greater functional strength, while requiring less time than its dumbbell counterpart.

K

“

ettlebells can replace almost all other exercise equipment in providing an all-in-one workout, combining strength and cardio benefits,” explains Shelly Bumpus, an Athletics and Fitness Association of America-certified personal trainer and owner of the Studio Women’s Fitness

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Center, in Scott, Louisiana. Bumpus often uses kettlebells in strength and conditioning exercise classes to afford a balanced full-body workout that’s fun and engaging.

“Consistent kettlebell training imitates and strengthens movements we use to function in daily life,” explains Athena Concannon, an American College of Sports Medicine-certified personal trainer and healthy lifestyle blogger at AchieveWithAthena.com, in Boston. For example, actions like lifting grocery bags and standing up from a sitting position become easier. She notes that the growing popularity of different kinds of functional training in the past decade has bolstered recognition of kettlebell benefits as people seek ways to move away from assisted weight machines toward natural body movements.

Kettlebells now show up in circuit training, CrossFit and both functional fitness and step classes. People see results because, “It takes multiple small and large muscle groups to redirect movement while maintaining control with a kettlebell, requiring more muscle recruitment than with a traditional dumbbell; it’s because its shape provides unbalanced weight resistance that strengthens a multitude of different muscles,” explains Julie Joffrion, owner of AllInclusive Health, in New Orleans.

A kettlebell’s configuration requires exercisers to pay close attention to maintaining a neutral spinal posture and avoid locking knees and wrists to avoid pain or injury. By starting with a smaller weight and focusing on form first, exercisers build a foundation that allows them to more fully enjoy the benefits.

Momentum training with kettlebells also compares favorably to traditional dumbbells or weighted bars. “The distinctive shape and weight distribution allows for a variety of exercises and grip positions that are not as comfortable and effective or even possible with a dumbbell,” says Joffrion.

Although kettlebells have been popular with Russian athletes since the 1700s, they are a relatively new addition to U.S. fitness clubs. “I first learned about kettlebell fitness in 2005 when some gyms were purchasing them. However, because trainers didn’t yet know how to use or instruct on proper movement of the bells, they sat dormant for awhile. I started using them and fell in love. After a few months, I knew this would be something I’d stick with for a long time,” recalls Lorna Kleidman, an accomplished kettlebell

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champion who has earned gold awards in 17 national and international competitions.

Now the founder of KettleX, a business focused on making kettlebell fitness available to everyone through DVDs, private sessions, online coaching and seminars, Kleidman says, “The beauty is that the bells keep you strong and looking great, no matter what your age or fitness experience. I’ve rarely met a person that didn’t get hooked after working out with the appropriate bells, be it a child or an 80-year-young client.

“They are excellent for power, cardiovascular enhancement, endurance and physical symmetry, which is important for the health of the tissues and joints. At the same time, they create a healthful-looking physique, including toned arms, flat abs and a round, lifted butt,” she adds.

Participants completing 20 minutes of a high-intensity kettlebell workout burned an average of 20 calories per minute in a study sponsored by the American Council of Exercise. The researchers compared this level to running a six-minute mile and credited the more intensive calorie burn as a result of challenging the total body, which quickly raises the heart rate when performed with speed. The study concluded that kettlebell training is especially beneficial for those that want to fit in a time-efficient, total body workout.

Proponents go a step further, claiming that kettlebells can deliver increased benefits in half the time of traditional workouts. Bumpus advises, “If you’re solely interested in building strength and muscle power, stick with free weights, but if you’re looking for a way to burn fat while increasing muscular and cardiovascular endurance, kettlebells are a valuable option to incorporate into your training.”

Taylor Geiger is a freelance writer in Phoenix, Arizona. Connect at TaylorGeiger.wordpress.com.

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January 2017

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consciouseating

THE DARK SIDE OF GLUTEN-FREE LIVING

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ales of gluten-free products reached $973 million in 2014 and are projected to grow to $2.34 billion in 2019, according to Packaged Facts, a market research publisher.

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The latest study, published in the American Medical Association publication JAMA Internal Medicine, found that the number of Americans with celiac disease remained relatively stable from 2009 through 2014 at about 2.7 million. Meanwhile, marketers for gluten-free products report about 40 million consumers.

Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder in which ingesting gluten causes issues such as intestinal damage, anemia and fatigue.

Those afflicted improve when gluten is removed from their diets and their intestinal tracts heal, according to the Center for Celiac Research and Treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital, in Boston.

Those with a non-celiac gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy also experience a range of symptoms, includ-

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ing bloating, brain fog and joint pain, when they ingest gluten. According to the Center, as many as 7 percent of Americans, or 18 million people, fall into this vague category, due to a far less understood immune response distinct from what’s linked to celiac disease.

Gluten Beneficiaries

The many Americans unaffected by gluten may want to avoid gluten-free products, says Dr. Michael Greger, a Washington, D.C., physician specializing in clinical nutrition. The bestselling author of How Not to Die, Greger founded the educational nonprofit NutritionFacts.org and is a founding fellow of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

“Just because some people have a peanut allergy doesn’t mean everyone should avoid peanuts,” says Greger. “Some evidence suggests that a gluten-free diet may adversely affect gut health in people without celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy.” He cites a small study published in Gut Microbes which found that a one-month, gluten-free diet may hurt gut flora and immune function,

potentially precipitating an overgrowth of harmful intestinal bacteria for those on gluten-free diets.

The gluten components that cause problems for the wheat-sensitive may act as prebiotics and feed good bacteria for the rest of us, says Greger.

“Wheat bran contains the important wheat-based prebiotic arabino-xylan-oligosaccharide,” explains Case Adams, a Morro Bay, California, naturopath and author of The Gluten Cure: Scientifically Proven Natural Solutions to Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivities. “It feeds the probiotics that produce enzymes which help break down gluten and gliadin proteins.”

Researchers from Pennsylvania’s University of Reading conducted multiple studies showing that arabino-xylanoligosaccharide derived from wheat bran increases beneficial bifidobacteria populations in the guts of humans.

It is disappointing that a number of highly publicized studies done on celiac patients have been inappropriately applied to the general population, notes Adams.

Gluten may also boost immune function. In a study published in the journal Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, researchers found that after less than a week on a diet with added gluten protein, subjects experienced significantly increased natural killer cell activity, which could improve their ability to fight cancer and viral infections. An earlier study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that high-gluten bread improved triglyceride levels better than regular gluten bread.

Plus, Greger says, avoiding gluten means missing out on all the fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients from whole grains like wheat, barley and rye. A whole-grainrich diet has been repeatedly shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity and some forms of cancer in studies from such institutions as the University of Minnesota and Lund University, in Sweden.

“Most gluten-free processed foods are not made with nutrient-rich, health-protecting whole grains,” adds Katherine Tallmadge, a Washington, D.C., registered dietitian, nutrition coach and author of Diet Simple. Ingredients such as potato starch and cornstarch with little nutritional value typically help take the place of wheat flour. “The gluten-free label has little to do with nutritional value.” French fries and many candies, for example, are naturally gluten-free.

Impact of Self-Diagnosis

Self-diagnosing a gluten issue can delay a doctor’s accurate assessment, cautions Greger. “We diagnose celiac by looking for the inflammation caused by gluten in celiac sufferers. If they haven’t been eating a lot of gluten, we might miss diagnosing the disease. Thus, instead of being on a gluten-free diet, we want celiac suspects to be on a gluten-loaded diet, such as four to six slices of gluten-packed bread daily for at least a month before they come in for a diagnostic exam.”

Studies are ongoing and information continues to evolve regarding the pluses and minuses of a gluten-free diet.

Judith Fertig writes food health articles and cookbooks from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

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P

eer pressure and body consciousness are universal challenges facing teens and their parents. Experts find that by modeling healthy habits and maintaining open lines of communication, adults can help foster healthy independent thinking and responses to inevitable situations.

Respect Developing Capacities

Some teen struggles are literally all in their heads, according to Dr. Frances Jensen, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, in Philadelphia. “The brain is the last organ to mature, and isn’t fully complete until young people reach their late 20s. This allows the brain to adapt to its environment, which can be both good and bad,” says Jensen, author of The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults.

Compounding the challenge, the frontal lobes, responsible for higher func-

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tions like insight, judgment, impulse control and empathy, fully mature last; it’s no coincidence that teens struggle in these areas, according to Jensen. The plasticity of the teenage brain is optimal for learning and adaption, but without the frontal lobe feedback, it’s a challenge for them to moderate the heightened emotions, novelty seeking and sexual impulses adolescents are also experiencing.

“We expect teenagers to act rationally, but there are many reasons why their brains aren’t taking them there,” says Jensen. “Acknowledging this can lower frustration levels for everyone.”

Create a Safe Haven

Teens learn more from experience than lectures, so parents should facilitate positive experiences and influences at home, advises Carla Atherton, director of The Healthy Family Formula, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, which fosters family well-being by holistically addressing root causes of poor health. Such activities can

include regularly preparing meals together and going for family walks, rather than eating dinner in front of the TV.

“Doing everything you can to connect with kids while they are in an environment you can control gives them a good foundation they can take into the world,” says Atherton, the mother of three teens.

Parents have to give trust to gain kids’ trust stresses educator Naomi Katz, of Galilee, Israel, author of Beautiful: Being an Empowered Young Woman.

“Create an environment where kids feel like they don’t have to hide or lie about anything,” Katz says. She also encourages parents to empower adolescents in decision making: Rather than telling them not to try drugs or alcohol “because I said so,” provide them real facts to help them draw their own conclusions.

Support Quiet Respites

In today’s hyper-connected world, Katz observes, “Social dynamics can get really confusing and painful and impact kids in far-reaching ways. We used to come home from school and be away from those issues until the next day;

now that break doesn’t come because of social media and smartphones.”

Katz recommends encouraging journaling or other forms of selfexpression to help teens unplug and reflect. Breathing exercises can help calm nerves and allow them to think more clearly in tough social situations before they react. Katz also suggests teens set aside time each week for a feel-good activity like playing sports or music, to give them a reliable source of pleasure and accomplishment, no matter what else is going on in their lives.

Stay Alert to Signs

Despite a parent’s best efforts, kids can and will make unhealthy choices, and parents need to be prepared to manage the consequences. If a child is suspected or found to be engaging in dangerous or addictive behaviors like self-harming or an eating disorder, it’s important to address these immediately, seeking professional help if needed, counsels Katz.

Jensen remarks that it’s easier to learn unhealthy patterns when the brain is malleable, and addictive behaviors are harder to eliminate than if they are acquired as an adult.

The signs of unhealthy behaviors can be subtle, so it’s important to recognize cues without making flash judgments or placing blame, says Atherton, For example, a parent that notices her teen eating differently or obsessed with working out should consider initiating a conversation with him or her about body image.

Talking to teens about images in the media can help them gain a more balanced and positive self-perspective.

“You can tell your kids, ‘These advertising images are trying to sell you someone’s idea of a perfect look, but it’s not reality,’” says Atherton.

For whatever issues teens are trying to cope with, parents need to cultivate their own sense of inner calm; to be the rock that they can cling to. “Caring adults need to give teens a periodic frontal lobe assist,” says Jensen. “It helps when we share more details and insights about how we organize our lives and make decisions. Modeling the rationality and empathy that teenagers may lack can be an effective counterbalance.”

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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January 2017

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greenliving

Holistic Dermatology Inner Health, Radiant Skin

by Linda Sechrist

Holistic skin care practices are simple, healthy and sustainably good for people and the planet because they follow nature’s example.

M

edical Doctor Alan M. Dattner, a 35-year pioneer in the field of holistic dermatology, faithfully follows nature’s principles in supporting skin health. His book Radiant Skin from the Inside Out: The Holistic Dermatologist’s Guide to Healing Your

Skin Naturally maps out how skin reflects the body’s healthy or unhealthy organs and systems.

Finding the internal root cause of problems on the skin, the body’s largest organ, takes time to investigate. Dattner, who practices in New York City and

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New Rochelle, New York, and considers himself a “skin detective”, says that although his forensic work continues to expand, he still begins his sleuthing by compiling a detailed and comprehensive history that yields clues for solving health puzzles and points him in the direction of what’s causing problems.

Some patients with acne also have symptoms of bloating, gastrointestinal issues or chronic bowel disease. Others may have traveled to another country where they contracted diarrhea from a parasite or foreign bacteria that upset their intestinal microbiome.

Skin outbreaks can also be the result of food sensitivities or food allergies. “I make patients aware of the issues underlying their skin problems so that they understand the connection between internal health and skin. Then they can make conscious food choices,” says Dattner.

Diet is a critical aspect of healthy skin. Food sensitivities can cause inflammation that can show up on the skin, he explains.

Dattner incorporates several diagnostic techniques and remedies from other medical traditions, including herbal, homeopathic and ayurvedic. A tongue diagnosis he uses is taken from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). He uses Applied Kinesiology to refine his therapeutic choices as the results align with his knowledge of dermatology, immunology and integrative medicine.

Janice MacKenzie, acupuncture practitioner, teacher and author of Discovering the Five Elements: One Day at a Time, views the skin as a third lung, because it breathes. “If the organs of elimination aren’t working well—large intestine, liver and kidney—then toxins leave through the skin, another organ of elimination,” says MacKenzie, who practices in Perkasie, Pennsylvania.

“When constipation leaves toxins to be reabsorbed into the blood and recirculated through the liver, the body, out of desperation, seeks ways to get rid of toxins through the skin. This can result in eczema, psoriasis, rashes, boils and acne,” notes MacKenzie.

In TCM, the facial redness of rosacea originates in a heating of the blood caused by toxicity. An inflammatory condition of excess energy and toxicity in the stomach travels

upward through the stomach energy meridian that runs from the eye to the second toe. It’s supposed to flow downward through the mouth, throat and intestines and out.

Elina Fedatova, cosmetic chemist, aesthetician, owner of spas in Chicago and Kalamazoo, Michigan, and formulator of Elina Organics, addresses skin as an aspect of a whole healthy body.

Her product line is created wholly from organic plant extracts and essential oils, made in batches every two weeks. These purely natural products can be ingested without harmful effects. “Formulas are made using holistic principles and adjusted for each season,” says Fedatova.

She agrees with Dattner, “Protecting skin from the inside with a nutritious diet that benefits the entire body is vital, as important as keeping the skin’s surface clean.” In caring for skin from the outside, a gentle exfoliation that can be done at home three times a week using a honey mask is the first step. Skin cells produced in the deepest layer gradually push their way to the epidermis every 30 days and die. Dead cells pile up unevenly and give the skin’s surface a dry, dull appearance. Treatment serums, moisturizing lotions and eye and neck creams are necessary elements of a complete facial skin care regimen, as is a natural sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

“Using skincare practices and products that follow nature’s example are the perfect external complement to good internal health,” says Fedatova.

Moving Made Easier

by Pam Paciaroni

T

he new year brings about thoughts of change and plans for the future, which can be as simple as vowing to change the oil in the car every 3,000 miles or as elaborate as beginning a new diet/exercise regimen. Regardless of what the resolutions are, they’re always made with the thought of improving life.

Perhaps a move is being considered this year for a senior family member.

Homeownership requires a lot of time, work and money. Mowing the lawn, pruning the bushes, raking the leaves—not to mention the dusting, the laundry, the bathroom. The list of chores goes on and on. Senior living communities can take care of all of this and much more.

Senior move managers work in many of the area’s senior communities and are familiar with the many amenities and activities offered. Residents enjoy playing cards and other games, working on arts and craft projects, and a variety of other activities. Residents can partake in as many or as few of these activities as they choose. Very few seniors regret their decision to move to these communities.

Moving is never simple. After years of accumulation, decisions need to be made as to what will transfer to a new home. These choices will take time and are not easy to make. Friends and family are encouraged to get involved in the process. Many charities welcome donations. Some will come to the home and pick up donations, while others require they be dropped off at their facility.

Senior move managers can take on many of these tasks, working closely with the senior and his or her family throughout the decision-making process. The advantage of using senior move managers is that they have a team of employees who can assist and speed up the process. Generally speaking, a senior move manager works at a pace that is set by the client. Clearly communicating goals to the manager will ensure a smooth transition.

Making the decision to move, at any stage of life, is never easy. The new year is a great opportunity to at least begin the conversation, visit some communities, and meet with a senior move manager. While senior move managers specialize in working with senior moves, they can help anyone prepare for a move or just get organized so the move will not be so daunting when the time comes.

Pam Paciaroni is a senior move specialist and local owner of Organize Senior Moves. Connect with her at 843-367-1438 or visit OrganizeSeniorMoves-Charleston.com. See ad, page 23.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

Springbank Retreat The best way to find out

for Eco-Spirituality and the Arts 1-, 2-, & 3-month sabbaticals, Feb.1-April 26

if you can trust somebody is to trust them. ~Ernest Hemingway

Enjoy 80 acres of quiet beauty.

Contemplative Moment of Grace, Feb. 3-5 Unspoken Hunger: A Compass for the Journey, Feb. 7-9 Paint Your Prayer, Feb. 13-16 From Aquinas to “Laudato Si,” Feb. 17 & 18 Celebrating Our Sacred Story, Feb. 21 & 22 Indigenous Wisdom & Clay, Feb. 27-March 12 Register by calling 843-382-9777 l www.SpringbankRetreat.org

Springbank@SpringbankRetreat.org l 1345 Springbank Rd., Kingstree, SC 29556

natural awakenings

January 2017

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product review

I

WANT TO CONNECT WITH OUR READERS?

recently tried LipSense from local distributor Be Kiss Proof. They claim their lip color will last four to 18 hours, and I found this to be true. I apply it in the morning and just add their LipSense clear gloss occasionally during the day. The color usually lasts all day!

LipSense has trace amounts of parabens in it. Parabens are used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in a product, increasing its shelf life. There is controversy over the safety of parabens in cosmetics. To quote the “Cosmetics Cop” Paula Begoun: “Ironically, parabens are naturally occurring chemicals.

It’s ironic because many natural skin care brands claim ingredients like parabens are dangerous, when in fact parabens have exhaustive safety data AND are naturally produced by vegetables and fruits.

Foods such as soy, beans, flax, cherries, blueberries, carrots and cucumbers produce parabens and other chemicals that mimic estrogen—to a much greater degree than the miniscule amounts of parabens used in skin care, hair care and makeup.” When I look at the riskversus-benefit ratio, I am willing to accept the risk. I think it is important to do your research and make informed decisions. I often turn to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and its databases to learn about the safety of products. Its view on parabens isn’t as relaxed as Begoun’s. EWG says some exposure is unavoidable since parabens are found in so many products, and even in our food, so it advises to reduce exposure where possible.

Most of the products I use are paraben-free, and I limit processed food consumption, so I am sticking with once-a-day LipSense for now.

I love the simplicity of once-a-day application. Same appeal as the crockpot—set it and forget it!

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T HR E E -M O NTH E D ITO R IAL C AL E NDA R AND M AR K E TING P L ANNE R

F E B

Conscious Dying

plus: Children’s Dental Health Our Readers Are Seeking Providers & Services for Hospice, Estate Planning, Burial Advice & Holistic Dental Care

Food Sensitivities plus: Holistic Eye Care

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Addressing Dietary Concerns & Natural Vision Care

A P R

M A R

Eco Yards

plus: Medical Massage Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Gardening/Lawn Care Supplies Massage Therapy Xeriscapes & Other EarthFriendly Landscaping

Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at:

Toni Conover, Publisher 843-821-7404 • ads@NALowcountry.com

NALowcountry.com

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calendarofevents Our calendar is filled with classes, workshops and events that feed your mind/body/ spirit and promote a healthy lifestyle. All submissions for the February issue must be received no later than January 10. Basic listings are a maximum of 40 words, not including the day/date, and cost $10/month. Highlighted events are $0.50/word plus $10/photo. Submit one time calendar entries at nalowcountry.com/event-entry.html.

Submit ongoing events at nalowcountry.com/recurring-events-calendar.html.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 3 Personal Color Analysis – Jan 3-5. 8am-8pm.

Courtenay St. John travels from Norwalk, CT, and brings 12 Blue Prints Personal Color Analysis to Charleston! Watch Yourself be “Lit from Within” with your more illuminating color choices for life! $250 for a 3-hour Analysis. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 413-8843649. Courtenay@CourtenayStJohnColors.com.

CourtenayStJohnColors.com.

Happy New Year! Free Make-and-Take YL Essential Oils Class – 6-7pm. Essential Oils “Brrrisk” January Paleo recipes. Peppermint chocolate bark.

Orange-infused hot chocolate. Learn about everyday essential oils. Snacks and wine offered. Prize drawings. Free for the first 10 registrants, then $10. Jenkins Family Care, 1164 Northbridge Dr, Charleston. 603-996-1974. EarlyDetectionIsKey@ gmail.com. YoungLivingBriskJan.eventbrite.com.

Intro to Hoopdance – 6-7:15pm. Utilizing the hoop as a transformational tool for a meaningful movement practice, we will awaken the rhythm of the body, feel into presence, and embark on a journey of self-realization using the 5 main elements of nature. $12. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-222-9684. Cat.p.hay@gmail. com. SpiritSpinner.com. SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6 Book Signing and Discussion of the New Divine Feminine with Meghan Don – 7-8:30pm. Meghan will take us into and through her own journey of fear and self-doubt and a return to the confidence of our true nature. You will learn of the Seven Faces of the Feminine. $27. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 Surfing the Cosmic Wave: An Astrological Perspective on Chaos, Riptide and Rebirth with Alexander Mallon – 1-5pm. Explore riding the best surf, understanding the flow of the cosmic tides and connecting to your higher self. $77. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley.

843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com.

BridgeToAvalon.com.

Shifting into Miracle Thinking Workshop – 1:30-4:30pm. Making the Shift from Shaking and Quaking Thoughts and Flooding Emotions to Miracle possibilities with David Hiller. $20. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-5660600. UnityCharleston@msn.com. Unitychs.org.

MONDAY, JANUARY 9 Simple Healthy Cooking – 6-7:30pm. Explore exciting new ways to enjoy ordinary food. Learn tips and strategies for keeping it simple, delicious and shatter some myths along the way about food

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health. Facilitator Geri Zatcoff, Certified Nutritionist, Fitness Expert, Consultant. FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843345-7061. Geri@ZatcoffWellness.com. GeriZatcoff. com. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 10 Intro to Detoxification and Natural Weight Loss – 6-7pm. Facilitated by Stephanie Zgraggen, DC, CNS, CCN. Come learn: Why we are TOXIC and what to do about it. How to detox the body to feel 10 years younger, increase your energy, improve sleep, and lose weight! $5. Lime and Lotus, 925 Wappoo Rd, Ste F, Charleston. 843-214-2997.

Hello@LimeAndLotus.com. LimeAndLotus.com.

Find Your Inner Master Ayurvedic Immersion Course – 6-7:45pm. Tuesdays through March 28. How long does it take to create a habit? How about 12 weeks to start 10 habits that will change your life? Rebalance with natural rhythms of sleeping, eating, moving. Ease through Ayurvedic Principles in a supportive group! $925/ individuals, $1,125/partners. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-343-6726.

SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com. SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

Young Living Essential Oils Make and Takes – 7-8:30pm. Have FUN and make great gifts while learning all about essential oils. All supplies included. No Stress! No Mess! Handouts, door prizes and refreshments. $5. Summerville. Info and to register, Roberta: 843-826-4086 or rlphilbr13@aol.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 Living the Intuitive Lifestyle: As Within So Without with Ray Moore – 7:30-9pm. Introduction to a six-month program that will provide spiritual instruction so the student may learn to use his/her spiritual abilities to direct and control the health, happiness, welfare and the freedom of the being in the body. Free. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@ BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 12 New Year ... Detox to the New You – 6-7pm.

Join us for the latest way to assess toxin and precancer status with thermal imaging, and learn from experts how to clear away the toxins with the NASA-approved Bemer Mat and our proven 10- or 21-day purification detox. Free. Merge Medical Center, 250 Mathis Ferry Rd, Ste 101, Mt Pleasant.

843-469-1001. Reception@Merge-Medical.com.

MergeMedicalCenter.com.

Know Thyself with Carmen Williams Part One – 7-9pm. Do you know who you are and are you walking in that power? Join Carmen Williams in opening your mind up to a larger story and greater possibilities. $27. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@

NALowcountry.com

BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

Self-Editing Series – Jan 12, 19 and 26. 7-8:30pm.

3-week series. Do what you can, then pay a pro to do the rest. Learn to edit your own writing with short exercises in class, then practice on your own.

Facilitator: Louann Pope, Freelance Copy Editor.

FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. lp@LouannPope. com. LouannPope.com. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 Open House – 11am-3pm. Open house featuring ongoing yoga, personal sauna visits, massage. Big savings on all services and Gift Certificates. View and learn about our products. Receive valuable info on how to heal from the inside out. Big prize drawing at 1pm. Free. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop, Summerville. 843-8105953. HealingHara@yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

Hands-on Intuitive Workshop – 5:30-8:30pm.

Tap deeper into your intuition through astrology, numerology, and the hands-on use of tarot cards and pendulum work with intuitive guidance practitioner Jackie Morfesis. Bring a tarot deck and pendulum or purchase them on-site. Email to register. Limit 5. $75. Charmed, 217 Lucas St, Ste E, Mt Pleasant.

843-352-2983. CharmedOnShemCreek@gmail. com. CharmedOnShemCreek.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 15 MLK Services and Movie – 9:30 and 11:15am, 1pm movie. Learn about the early beginnings of the Montgomery bus boycott and Dr. King’s role in it. Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-566-0600. UnityCharleston@msn. com. Unitychs.org.

Sound Bath Healing and Meditation – 4-5:30 pm. Join us for an evening of deep relaxation, stress reduction and rejuvenation after the holidays. This meditation infuses the sound of crystal singing bowls, essential oils, and ear acupuncture. Bring an eye pillow, yoga mat and blanket for serious relaxation! $25. The Healing Arts Center, 480 Jessen Ln, Ste C, Charleston. 843-779-5423. Info@WellRoundedHealing.com. WellRoundedHealing.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19 Shamanic Dream Circle with Erin Sirona – 6:308:45pm. Immersed in powerful collective energy, we will journey deeply through Shamanic meditation.

There will be an opportunity for feedback from others as well as time to share your “takeaway” at the end. Please bring a snack to share. $27. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley.

843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com.

BridgeToAvalon.com.

Messages from Heaven. A Small Group Event – 7-9pm. Join Intuitive Medium Carol Cottrell for an evening of joy, laughter, tears, healing and love as she connects you with your loved ones in spirit.

This event is limited to just 8 tickets sold to allow for a more intimate experience. $65. 815 Savannah Hwy, Charleston. 843-324-6460. Carol@CCottrell. com. CCottrell.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 Peggy Huddleston—Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster Workshop – 10-11am. Are you concerned about an upcoming surgery? Learn how this workshop will help you feel calmer, use less

pain medication and heal faster. Free Info Session. The Healing Arts Center, 480 Jessen Ln, Charleston. 978-771-3201. mj.Reiki@comcast.net.

TheHealingArtsCenterSC.com.

True Cellular Detox Class – 10am-2pm. Suffering with depression, anxiety, sleep and weight-loss issues? Could toxins be the reason why you don’t feel well? Find out why most detox programs don’t work and can be dangerous. Two simple tests to know your true toxic level. $20 (includes lunch!). James Family Chiropractic, 455 Old Trolley Rd, Summerville.

813-851-2417. JamesFamilyChiropractic@hotmail. com. JamesFamilyChiropractic.com.

Envision the Art of Possibility Part 1 – 12-3pm.

We will begin the process of living in possibility. Learn to master the science of manifestation, clear your roadblocks, envision your future, and develop a plan to create it. We will then create our vision boards when we have clarity. Free. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-284-6810. Victoria.Hargis@gmail.com.

VictoriaHargis.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 22 12 Powers Documentary – 1-2:30pm. James Twyman, Jewish rabbis, Muslim imams and Christian ministers synchronized meditation, prayers and 12 Powers in war-torn Syria. Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-5660600. UnityCharleston@msn.com. Unitychs.org.

Ayurvedic Philosophy 101 – 2-3pm. Ayurveda, living in wisdom. Learn some new ways to interact in your world with some of this ancient wisdom!

This month, we will discuss techniques to increase your Energy in the new year! 1st in the 4-part series. $45 per class, $160 for the series. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-3436726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com.

SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

MONDAY, JANUARY 23 Exploring the Colors of the Chakras – 7-8pm.

Learn how to open your Third Eye with some easy, hands-on techniques. You can tap into your intuition and see what your soul wants you to know! Are you Ready? $15/advance, $20/day of. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-696-4016.

VibraSoulArt@gmail.com. VibraSoulArt.com.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24 Young Living Essential Oils Make and Takes – 7-8:30pm. Have FUN and make great gifts while learning all about essential oils. All supplies included. No Stress! No Mess! Handouts, door prizes and refreshments. $5. Summerville. Info and to register, Roberta: 843-826-4086 or rlPhilbr13@aol.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25 Client Attraction & Marketing 101 for Holistic Practitioners – 6:30-8:30pm. Facilitated by Stephanie Zgraggen, DC, CNS, CCN. Learn: #1 action step to achieving your ideal practice. Discover how to brand yourself as the expert in town. 3 ways to make changes in your practice that = BIG RESULTS. Preregistration/$25, At the Door/$35. Lime and Lotus, 925 Wappoo Rd, Ste F, Charleston. 843-214-2997.

Hello@LimeAndLotus.com. LimeAndLotus.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26 Awaken Your Ability. An Introduction to Mediumship – Thursdays Jan 26-Feb 16. 7-9pm. This

4-week class will help build the foundation, as well as provide tools to help further develop your psychic and mediumistic abilities. The class will include instruction, discussion, helpful tips, development exercises, and so much more. $375. 815 Savannah Hwy, Charleston. 843-324-6460. Carol@CCottrell. com. AwakenYourAbilityWinter2017.eventzilla.net.

Know Thyself with Carmen Williams Part Two – 7-9pm. Do you know who you are and are you walking in that power? Join Carmen Williams in opening your mind up to a larger story and greater possibilities. $27. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@ BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27 USUI Holy Fire Reiki Advanced Master Class – Jan 27-29. 9am to 6pm. This Advanced Master Class will take the accomplished Reiki I and II student to new levels of Mastery in the Practice of Reiki.

Advanced Reiki symbols, concepts, ignitions and placements as well as hands-on experience. Please call with questions. $1,025. 301 E Richardson Ave, Summerville. 860-857-4815. RiverOfLife100@ gmail.com.

Returning to Our Wisdom, Returning to the Earth – Jan 27-29, 4:30pm Friday-Sunday after 12:15pm. Full weekend retreat at Mepkin Abbey led by Meghan Don offers participants the opportunity to experience the peace of Mepkin Abbey, learn of different Wisdom texts, walk the labyrinth, and access their own wisdom. $225. Sponsored by The Sophia Institute. Mepkin Abbey, 1098 Mepkin Abbey Rd, Moncks Corner. 843-720-8528.

TheSophiaInstitute.org. info@thesophiainstitute.org.

Book Signing and Discussion of Not What We Appear To Be: New Perspectives for Conscious Living

by Monte Scribner – 7-8:30pm. This Guidebook offers an enlightened perspective about the nature of our existence. In doing so, it answers many questions about life purpose and the experience of being human. Join us and get a free signed copy. $27. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley.

843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com.

Reiki Healing Energy Circle – 7-8:30pm. We’re on a mission to create a powerful community of conscious healers devoted to awakening the greatest of human potential. And to provide a streamlined and supportive path for the spiritual growth of our community. $10 Donation. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 Self-Healing for Jaw & Facial Pain – 10am12:30pm. Learn proven holistic and massage techniques for drastically reducing the facial pain, headaches, jaw pain, tension, popping/clicking, clenching/grinding associated with TMJ. Discover the stress triggers and emotions that contribute to this pain pattern, and how to eliminate them. $50. The Healing Arts Center, 480 Jessen Ln, Charleston. 843-991-3444. InHealth@yahoo.com.

HealingArtsCenterSC.com.

Readings with Monte Scribner: A New Perspective – 11am-4 pm. Monte is an interdimensional channel able to connect with higher guidance to provide outside the box perspectives on higher life issues. Slots are limited. Please call to schedule your appointment. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@

BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

Envision the Art of Possibility Part 2 – 12-3pm.

We will begin the process of living in possibility. Learn to master the science of manifestation, clear your roadblocks, envision your future, and develop a plan to create it. We will then create our vision boards when we have clarity. Free. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-284-6810. Victoria.Hargis@gmail.com.

VictoriaHargis.com.

Spiritual Cinema Night – 7-10pm. Do you like movies with a spiritual theme or message? Do you like movies of this genre that make you think? Do you like to discuss them with others of like mind? Then join us! $10 Donation. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29 Readings with Monte Scribner: A New Perspective – 11-4 pm. Monte is an interdimensional channel able to connect with higher guidance to provide outside the box perspectives on higher life issues.

Slots are limited. Please call to schedule your appointment. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@ BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

Truth Talks: Wages of Privilege, Pride and Prejudice – 1-2:30pm. Author, poet, speaker Lornabelle Gethers on racism, our shadows, and communications for healing our society. Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-5660600. UnityCharleston@msn.com. Unitychs.org.

Lost in Play – 1:30-3pm. Splatter. Spray. Slap … some paint on a T-shirt, canvas bag or new friend.

Imagine how you could feel if you allow yourself to release your frustrations through playful fun without judgments or fear. No rules—just tons of playful fun! $25/in advance, $30/ one week prior to event.

Private residence in Summerville. 843-696-4016.

VibraSoulArt@gmail.com. VibraSoulArt.com.

MONDAY, JANUARY 30 Developing a Strong Foundation – 6-8pm. How to identify stress, use it to your advantage, and reverse its negative effects on mind and body. Presented by Dr. Amanda McNabb. $20. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo.com.

HealingHara.com.

plan ahead FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Making Change Your Ally with Creativity and Intuition – Feb 3-4. Fri 6:30-8:30pm, Sat 9:30am5pm. Debra Moffitt leads this retreat featuring practical tools to help participants reconnect to their intuition and fuel their creativity. Friday night lecture $25 in advance, $35 day of. Full retreat $195.

The Sophia Institute. Lance Hall, 150 Meeting St, Charleston. 843-720-8528. info@thesophiainstitute. org. TheSophiaInstitute.org.

Contemplative Moment of Grace – Feb 3-5. 7pm, Fri thru 1pm, Sun. Retreat into the quiet of nature and your own soul to enhance awareness of the sacredness of life. Silence allows deep listening for spirit. Mornings begin with centering prayer and

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Tai Chi Chih, inviting stability and balance for the day. $275/includes lodging and meals. Springbank Retreat for Eco-Spirituality & the Arts, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree. 843-382-9777. Springbank@ SpringbankRetreat.org. SpringbankRetreat.org.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Unspoken Hunger: A Compass for the Journey – Feb 7-9. 7pm, Tues thru 4:30pm, Thurs. In a time of confusion and anxiety, we will explore our true depths where the human connects to the heart of God and the heart of the Cosmos. $325/includes lodging and meals. Springbank Retreat for Eco-Spirituality & the Arts, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree. 843382-9777. Springbank@SpringbankRetreat.org.

SpringbankRetreat.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Women’s Holistic Health Symposium – THRIVE – Ignite Your Purpose and Spark Your Passion – 10am-6pm. This year’s theme: Women and Self-Care. The day will be filled with a variety of speakers and activities that include topics on Women’s Health, Wealth, Career, Soul Nurturing, Relationships and Sacred Sexuality, and more.

Lunch and snacks included! $197. Edisto Hall - James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston. 843-214-2997. Hello@SoulBlossoms. org. SoulBlossoms.org

ongoing events sunday Zen Meditation Group – 8:15am. Three half-hour rounds of sitting along with walking meditation.

Email to find out the best time for you to arrive. Free.

Holy Cow Yoga, 10 Windermere Blvd, West Ashley.

Info@CharlestonZen.org. CharlestonZen.org.

Unity of Charleston Services – 9:30 & 11:15am.

Are you more spiritual than religious? So are we!

Do you believe in many paths to God? Then join us.

Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston.

843-566-0600. Unitychs.org.

Unity of Mt Pleasant – 10-11am. Unity is a Positive Path for Spiritual Living. We lovingly welcome people of all faiths and inspire them to live with Passion. Free. Unity of Mt Pleasant, 3100 Tradition Cir, 2nd Floor, Somerby at Park West, Mt Pleasant.

843-814-1322. lleshay@comcast.net.

New Spirit Books & Gifts – 10:30am-1pm. Spiritual, metaphysical and inspirational books, crystals, incense, tarot/oracle cards. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-566-0600.

NewSpiritbg@gmail.com.

Martial Arts – 2-5pm. $50 per month. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@ yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

monday Slow Flow and Meditation – 9am. With Teresa Bulford. The perfect opportunity to take your time

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moving through a beautifully sequenced flow infused with mindfulness and meditation practices. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo. com. HealingHara.com.

Charleston Community Acupuncture – 10am-1pm & 3-5:30pm (new extended hours). 1307 Savannah Hwy, Charleston. 843-763-7200.

Complimentary Natural Female Hormone Balancing Consultations – 10am-4pm. With Dr. Stephanie Zgraggen. Lime and Lotus, 925-F Wappoo Rd, West Ashley. Call to schedule: 843-214-2997.

LimeAndLotus.com.

Senior Yoga – 2:30pm. With Joe Vinciguerra. Offering a variety of approaches to meet the needs of all seniors. These classes incorporate gentle yoga poses, gradual stretching and correct breathing. Chairs incorporated to support your yoga practice. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo. com. HealingHara.com.

Martial Arts Training – 6pm. Martial Arts training from beginning to advanced. Free trial lesson for evaluation. An Ancient Okinawan Martial Art for enhancement on all levels of Awareness—on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual self. $75 per month, $135/family rates. Natsu Mura Karate & Kobudo, 125 S Main St, Summerville. 843-875-4543.

Info@ResourcesUnlimited1.com. NatsuMura.com.

Functional Fitness Group Class – 6-7pm. Each fun and motivational class focuses on different large muscle groups in functional everyday movements to create more stability, stamina, balance and improve strength. All fitness levels are welcome! Andrew Dean. $10 per class. Register in advance; limited space. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. TransformUniversalFitness@yahoo.com.

HolisticHealthTrainer.com. 843-475-2156.

tuesday Yoga for EveryBody – 9:30am. With Sam Meehan.

This gentle, traditional meditative approach to yoga is guaranteed to reduce stress while increasing your strength, flexibility and stamina. Each class includes postures, breathing techniques, deep relaxation and meditation. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953.

HealingHara@yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

Chair Yoga – 11:15am. This class is designed to lead those who need or prefer to use a chair in place of a mat. If you or someone you know feels uncomfortable on the floor, we suggest this class for disorders and disabilities. $85/unltd, $50/5class, $15/1class. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953.

HealingHara@yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

Your Power Hour – 5:30pm. A progressive class that offers challenging aspects for everyone. With an emphasis on core strength, this class combines traditional yoga postures with strong, energetic movement. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953.

HealingHara@yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

ZUMBA – 6-6:45pm. Experience a fun dance party

NALowcountry.com

set to world and contemporary rhythms that is great for stress relief and fitness. Prepare to shake it up with a smile. All levels welcome. Melanie Cason, Licensed ZUMBA Instructor since 2015. Free. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. Melanie.Cason@gmail.com. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

Free Monthly Essential Oils Class – 6-7pm. 1st Tues of the month. Learn Healthy Habits, use Essential oils, Make ‘N’ Take items to use or give away to loved ones, Refreshments served, Recipes and RAFFLES! Free. 1164 Northbridge Rd (West Ashley), Charleston. 843-270-9913. ChiroAnn@ yahoo.com. DrAnnJenkins.com.

Living Qigong – 6-7pm. Qigong for health is designed for all ages and all abilities. This Ancient Healing Art creates health for the body, mind and spirit. $5 per session; first time free.

Natsu Mura Karate, 125 S Main St, Summerville.

843-875-4543. Info@ResourcesUnlimited1.com.

ResourcesUnlimited1.com.

Hara Flow Yoga – 7pm. With Joe Vinciguerra. A fully awakening practice of breath and movement.

Students will learn to flow through various yoga poses with emphasis on breathwork and proper alignment. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953.

HealingHara@yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

The Reiki Connection – 7pm. With Chrys Franks, Reiki Master/Teacher. Guided meditation followed by mini reiki sessions by certified practitioners. Love offering. (1st Tues for practitioners only.) Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-3645725. Unitychs.org.

wednesday Hara Yoga – 7:30-8:30am. This class will focus on the Hara, the Solar Plexus in the region of the abdomen where the internal organs are housed. Various types of pressure may be exerted here through deep, diaphragmatic strong poses and deep twists.

Ignite the fire! $85. Unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness, 209 Stallsville Loop, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo. com. HealingHara.com.

Complimentary Natural Female Hormone Balancing Consultations – 10am-4pm. With Dr. Stephanie Zgraggen. Lime and Lotus, 925-F Wappoo Rd, West Ashley. Call to schedule: 843-2142997. LimeAndLotus.com.

Yoga for All – 11am. With Marlene Glaser. Connect breath awareness, mindfulness and fluid movement as you practice both gentle and active yoga asanas.

Allow yoga to help foster relaxation, balance and a healthier body and mind. $15 per class or $85 monthly unlimited pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo.com.

HealingHara.com.

Yoga LAB – Jan 4 and 18. 12:15-1:15pm. Learn yoga poses in a super safe space until they aren’t intimidating by taking the complexity out and leaving any judgements and/or expectations behind.

Facilitator: Karen Tosh, 200-hr certification. FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. KarenmTosh@gmail.com. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

Martial Arts Training – 6pm. Martial Arts training from beginning to advanced. Free trial lesson for evaluation. An Ancient Okinawan Martial Art for enhancement on all levels of Awareness—on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual self. $75 per month, $135/family rates. Natsu Mura Karate & Kobudo, 125 S Main St, Summerville.

843-875-4543. Info@ResourcesUnlimited1.com.

NatsuMura.com.

Guitar Workshop – 6-7pm. Beginner to Intermediate Guitar Workshop; bring your own guitar or practice using one provided by bliss. Facilitator: Jason Thompson, 30 years’ experience playing and performing; 14 years of teaching guitar, piano and voice lessons. FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. Jason@jtgigs. com. jtgigs.com. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

Functional Fitness Group Class – 6-7pm. Each fun and motivational class focuses on different large muscle groups in functional everyday movements to create more stability, stamina, balance and improve strength. All fitness levels are welcome! Andrew Dean. $10 per class. Register in advance; limited space. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston.TransformUniversalFitness@yahoo. com. HolisticHealthTrainer.com. 843-475-2156.

Martial Arts – 6-8pm. $50 per month. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@ yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

Guided Meditation – 6:30-7:15pm. Come gather with us and journey into the depths of our hearts!

Weekly sessions are one hour with a spirit-channeled visualization/meditation. Upon completion, everyone will have an opportunity to share insights, breakthroughs and more. $10 donation. Bridge to Avalon, 757 Saint Andrews Blvd, West Ashley.

843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com.

BridgeToAvalon.com.

Meditation Class – 6:30-7:30pm. With Jennifer Michaels, Energy Healer and Spiritual Life Coach.

Guided and silent meditation. Beginners and advanced. $15 per class. Shepard Integrative Dermatology, 912 Old Georgetown Rd, Mt Pleasant.

843-514-2848. JEMichaels.com.

WiseWomen Meetup – 7-8:30 pm. Come explore with us a variety of spiritual topics, meet other seeking women, and meet your tribe. Donation optional.

Serenity Center, 820 Central Ave, Summerville.

314-276-7772. SerenitySC.com.

thursday Senior Yoga – 2:30pm. With Joe Vinciguerra. Offered in a variety of approaches to meet the needs of all seniors. These classes incorporate gentle yoga poses, gradual stretching and correct breathing.

Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953.

HealingHara@yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

Slow Flow and Meditation – 6pm. With Marlene Glaser. This class interweaves learning true insight meditation and pranayama (breathing) techniques as well as conscious, flowing asanas that help build strength and stability. Leave class feeling grounded, relaxed and rejuvenated. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd,

Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo. com. HealingHara.com.

Living Qigong – 6-7pm. Qigong for health is designed for all ages and all abilities. This Ancient Healing Art creates health for the body, mind and spirit. $5 per session; first time free. Natsu Mura Karate, 125 S Main Street, Summerville.

843-875-4543. Info@ResourcesUnlimited1.com.

ResourcesUnlimited1.com.

ZUMBA – 6-6:45pm. Experience a fun dance party set to world and contemporary rhythms that is great for stress relief and fitness. Prepare to shake it up with a smile. All levels welcome. Melanie Cason, Licensed ZUMBA Instructor since 2015. Free. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. Melanie.Cason@gmail.com. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

friday Yin Yang Yoga – 9am. With Marlene Glaser. Increase your flexibility with yin yoga as well as the yang aspects of the practice that focus on increasing core strength and joint stability. Slow and deep exploration of mind and body. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo.com.

HealingHara.com.

create more stability, stamina, balance and improve strength. All fitness levels are welcome! Andrew Dean. $10 per class. Register in advance; limited space. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. TransformUniversalFitness@yahoo. com. HolisticHealthTrainer.com. 843-475-2156.

Martial Arts Training –11am. Martial Arts training from beginning to advanced. Free trial lesson for evaluation. An Ancient Okinawan Martial Art for enhancement on all levels of Awareness—on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual self. $75 per month, $135/family rates. Natsu Mura Karate & Kobudo, 125 S Main St, Summerville.

843-875-4543. Info@ResourcesUnlimited1.com.

NatsuMura.com.

ConneCtions that nourish Your soul

Friday Flow – 5:30pm. Start the weekend off right with this 75-minute practice! We begin class building heat by flowing through a mindful vinyasa series and top off with soothing, longer-held poses to relax body and mind! $85 monthly unlimited pass. $50/5 classes, $15/class. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness, 209 Stallsville Loop, Summerville. 843-8105953. HealingHara@yahoo.com. HealingHara.com.

Transmission Meditation – 6:30pm. Very powerful work. Beneficial for humanity and self.

Healing Oasis, 772 St Andrews Blvd, West Ashely. 843-743-5222. HealingOasisllc.com.

TransmissionMeditation.org.

saturday Gentle Yoga – 10am. Providing the opportunity to relax and renew the body with restful yoga postures. Practicing gentle yoga can teach you to relax, rest deeply and completely. $15 per class or $85 unlimited monthly pass. Healing Hara Massage & Wellness Center, 209 Stallsville Loop Rd, Summerville. 843-810-5953. HealingHara@yahoo.com.

HealingHara.com.

Compost Daze – 10am-2pm. Compost Rangers Compost Daze volunteer monthly workday every 2nd Sat of the month. Location will vary, so follow Compost Rangers on Facebook or visit CompostRangers.org and sign up for email reminders.

Simply Meditate – 10:30am-12pm. 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Drop-in classes with guided meditations, suitable for beginners and experienced alike. Circular Church, 150 Meeting St, Charleston (classroom below Lance Hall). $10 or $5/students/seniors.

MeditationInSouthCarolina.org.

Functional Fitness Group Class – 11am. Each fun and motivational class focuses on different large muscle groups in functional everyday movements to

Bliss Spiritual Co-op is a dream incubator offering classes in a cozy, retreat environment which includes a creative arts studio, full working kitchen, inspirational library, workout studio, meditation room, healing room, meditative painting space, organic garden and three classrooms.

explore Your bliss www.BlissSpiritualCo-Op.org

1163 Pleasant Oaks Drive Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

natural awakenings

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37

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

DR. PATRICK S. LOVEGROVE

ACUPUNCTURE

Merge Medical Center Mt Pleasant • 843-469-1001 MergeMedicalCenter.com

CHARLESTON COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE

1307 Savannah Hwy, West Ashley 843-763-7200 FeelGreatCharleston.com Voted best acupuncturist three years running. We treat most ailments, including stress, pain management, autoimmune issues, infertility, migraines, fatigue, allergies, diabetes and much more. Sliding scale payment option $20-$40 (return visits).

SUMMERVILLE COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE

1731 N Main St, Ste H Summerville 843-810-1225 SummervilleCommunityAcupuncture.com Bring us your headaches, back pain, tennis elbow, indigestion or whatever else is bothering you. Affordable acupuncture between $15-$45 plus a $10 paperwork fee for new patients. $5 PTSD treatments for veterans. Appointments or walk-ins welcome.

AMA board-certified MD specializing in family medicine, holistic internal medicine, Antiaging, Chinese medicine, naturopathy. Merge Medical Center … where modern thinking meets natural healing. Services include Primary Care, Weight Loss, Fatigue management, Bioidentical hormones, Colonics, Acupuncture, Massage, Reiki, Chiropractic, IV vitamins, and Bemer therapy.

YOUR GROOMING GURU

1319 Savannah Hwy, Ste C Charleston (in Artisans Inc Salon) 843-813-1838 YourGroomingGuru.com Your Grooming Guru, Barbara BrantWilliams, is an experienced hairstylist, makeup artist and certified Organic Color Specialist practicing out of the Artisans Salon. Charleston’s go-to source for hair, makeup and beauty product knowledge.

bodywork THE HEALING ARTS CENTER

Beverly Lucas, LMT, CST David Lucas, LMT 772 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston 843-743-5222 HealingOasisllc.com

Allison Kirk and Gudrun Strmic 480 Jessen Ln, Charleston 843-631-6422 • HealingArtsCenterSC.com

Visit Healing Oasis and experience powerful healing vibrations.

Services: Advanced CranioSacral Therapy, with more than a decade of experience; Energy Healing; Chakra Balancing; Massage Therapy; Aura Photography; SoulCollage Workshops; Ionic Detox Foot Bath; Far-Infrared Sauna.

LIME AND LOTUS LLC

Healing Arts Center 925 Wappoo Rd, Ste F, Charleston 843-214-2997 • LimeAndLotus.com

Each therapist has a varied and unique background and provides a tailored treatment for every client.

Massage. Energy. Meditation.

Aromatherapy. MyoKinesthetic.

Workshops. Reiki.

Knight Wellness and Therapy Bethany Knight, LMT 200 W 5th N St, Summerville 843-518-0692 KnightWellnessAndTherapy.com

Services: Clinical Nutrition, Chiropractic, Massage Therapy, Holistic Mental Health, Natural Female Hormone Balancing, Detoxification.

Natural Skin Care. Sessions and workshops for mind, body and spirit.

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NA Lowcountry Edition

Abigail McClam, BA, LMBT 232A Ashley Ave, Charleston 843-724-9807 Abigail@LotusCharleston.com LotusCharleston.com

Licensed holistic massage and integrative bodywork practitioner offering massage, aromatherapy, energy healing and breathing techniques to help individuals nurture health, restore balance, manage pain, trauma and injury as they learn to embrace their own body/mind wisdom.

POPIEL HOLISTIC THERAPY

Susan Popiel, RN, CST 1037-D Chuck Dawley Blvd, Ste 206 Mt Pleasant 843-834-4168 • SusanPopiel.com With a background in nursing, Popiel offers treatments that naturally support your greater health and wellbeing. Acupressure (no needles utilized), CranioSacral Therapy, Zero Balancing, surgery preparation.

beauty consultant

ALTERNATIVE HOLISTIC MEDICINE HEALING OASIS LLC

LOTUS HOLISTIC MASSAGE

NALowcountry.com

Busy lives require working bodies.

Bethany will assess your aches and pains and help get you back in working order. Certified in Cupping, ART (lower extremity), Neuromuscular massage and more.

WORLD OF WELLNESS

Pam Olivier 3226 2B Maybank Hwy, Johns Island 843-708-8923 • PamOlivier.com A unique massage formulated specifically to meet your needs.

Several different massage modalities are used, including sports, neuromuscular, trigger point, lomi lomi, Thai yoga massage and manual lymph drainage. Conditions addressed include migraines, sciatica, whiplash, stress, anxiety and good old tight shoulders.

BRAIN TRAINING BRAINCORE NEUROFEEDBACK

990 Lake Hunter Cir, Ste 212, Mt Pleasant 844-BRAIN-ON (272-4666) BrainCore.Dianne@gmail.com Specializing in brain training, an effective, drug-free treatment for ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraines, memory, improving performance and more. No side effects. Permanent changes.

CHIROPRACTORS COLUCCI CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTER Dr. Gina Colucci 1806 Trolley Rd, Summerville 843-875-5700 ColucciChiropractic.com

Serving the Summerville area for 29 years. Specializing in holistic care; weight loss and nutritional cleansing; pain management; bioidentical hormones; sugar detox; stress testing; chiropractic; peripheral neuropathy; detox footbaths; emotional (TBM/NET) and wellness care.

Dr. Ann Jenkins, Not Your Ordinary Chiropractor 1164 Northbridge Dr, Charleston (West Ashley) 843-270-9913 DrAnnJenkins.com

Exclusive to the area: Whole Body Magnetic Therapy. Mention Natural Awakenings for a free one-hour session. Holistic family care. Relief of neck, back and emotional pain.

Homeopathy and essential oils. See ad, page 28.

CHURCHES Unity Church of Charleston Rev. Ed Kosak, Minister 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston 843-566-0600 • Unitychs.org

Sunday Services: 9:30 and 11:15am. Are you more spiritual than religious? Do you believe in many paths to God? Then please join us.

COLON HEALTH A CENTER FOR WELL-BEING

Grass Roots Health Care Since 1991 843-769-6848 • ACenterForWellbeing.com Therapeutic Massage, Colon Hydrotherapy, Detox Foot Baths. Healthy Food Choice Coaching, NBCTH-certified and I-ACT members. Offering people a vehicle to help improve their quality of life. Specializing in probiotic education.

COSMETICS BE KISS PROOF

LipSense & SeneGence Distributor #202044 Ashley T. Caldwell BeKissProof.com The lipstick and makeup that doesn’t budge! 4-18 hours of wear!

DENTISTRY

eco cleaning

DELITE DENTAL

ABOVE & BEYOND CLEANING LLC

Dr. Hayan Lee & Dr. Young Kim 320 Midland Pkwy, Ste A, Summerville 843-486-2022 • DeliteDental.net

Kimberly Henderson • 843-901-4779 AboveAndBeyondCleaningllc.com

Stop being a cavity victim. Dental health is more than just brushing and flossing two times a day. See the dental revolution of a compassionate, holistic office. Call and ask for current promotion.

I SMILE MATHIS FERRY DENTISTRY Wendy S. Haefner, DDS 1571 Mathis Ferry Rd, Mt Pleasant 843-884-1215 • MathisFerryDentistry.com

Biological dentistry using IAOMT protocol. Natural products free of BPA and mercury. Mercury-safe filling removal. Now offering ozone therapy! See ad, page 4.

JULIE OBENCHAIN, DDS

924 Tall Pine Rd, Mt Pleasant 843-884-0701 • PleasantSmilesCFD.com BPA and bis-GMA free dental fillings and BPA-free night guards.

Mercury free, mercury safe.

Accepting new patients and emergency appointments. Please call for consultation. See ad, page 17.

PALMER DISTINCTIVE DENTISTRY Drs. Joe Palmer and Daniel Knause 134 Milestone Way, Greenville, SC 864-501-5891 • PalmerDMD.com

Biological Dentistry using the highest standards of biocompatible dentistry as defined by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). One-visit crowns, laser-assisted periodontal therapy and ozone therapy; fluoride-free office. See ad, page 3.

JAMES SEXTON, DMD, MAGD

dating coach Diana Humphrey

Dating Coach Author of Pain Proof Dating Series Book 1 Getting Ready to Date 8437date7 (843-732-8377) Get ready to date and make the process PAIN PROOF. Diana will coach you through the program step by step. Learn about yourself, become your best self, develop your best life and have FUN! Call for an appointment: 843-732-8377.

Please call for appointment: Mt Pleasant • 843-881-1418 Myrtle Beach • 843-293-6700

Holistic, preventive dentistry. Safe removal of mercury fillings since 1975, following IAOMT protocol.

Offering anti-aging dentistry and biocompatible materials. See ad, page 27.

Healthy living starts with an ecoclean home or office. Health and wholeness are our top priorities by providing our clients with a “green” clean by using natural and botanical cleaning products.

ENERGY HEALING HEALING THERAPY EN ESPAÑOL Rocío Delgadillo, MD Terapeuta Arcangelica/Coach de vidas Charleston • 843-367-5618 RocioDelgadilloHealingTherapy.com m.Facebook.com/terapiaarcangelica

Experimenta la presencia de los ángeles en tu vida a través de sus mensajes de amor y su luz sanadora.

Terapia Arcangelica-Geometría Sagrada-Cristaloterapia.

Reprogramación de ADN.

JENNIFER E. MICHAELS

Energy Healer and Soul Coach Artist, Author and Speaker Mt Pleasant • 843-514-2848 Jennifer@JEMichaels.com • JEMichaels.com Overcome emotional, mental, physical and spiritual issues with Energy Healing and Soul Coaching.

Remove blocks and move forward with grace and ease. Holy-land oils, John of God crystals, angel therapy, past-life regressions, inner-child wellness and more. Raise vibration and feel amazing!

RESOURCES UNLIMITED

Joyce Stech 125 S Main St, Summerville Summerville • 843-870-4462 ResourcesUnlimited1.com • RoyalGems.org Joyce Stech (maMJAH), founder of Royal Gems Matrix Healing System, Martial Artist (Kyoshi, 7th dan), author, Metaphysician, Spiritual CEO of Taoist-Yogi Christ Lineage International. Private sessions, classes, online programs.

Everything is going to be okay in the end, and if it’s not okay it’s not the end. ~Paulo Coelho natural awakenings

January 2017

39

GOD’S GREEN ACRE

ESSENTIAL OILS YOUNG LIVING

Roberta Philbrick 843-826-4086 • RLPhilbr13@aol.com YoungLiving.com ID#3441572 As a Team Leader and Independent Distributor for Young Living, I specialize in Longevity and Wellness. Essential oils are the natural way to clean up your home and environment. Let me share with you how they can also benefit your mental and physical well-being. Call to schedule individual or group classes.

FITNESS SEED OF LIFE COLLECTIVE

Andrew Dean, ISFTA Certified Personal Fitness Trainer and Exercise Therapist 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston 843-475-2156 TransformUniversalFitness@yahoo.com, HolisticHealthTrainer.com With over five years of experience in the Charleston area in Personal Fitness Training and Rehabilitation Exercise Therapy, Andrew’s approach looks at every individual from a holistic and integrated perspective, blending structured fitness programs, stretching and strengthening exercises, muscle- and mind-calming techniques, aromatherapy and breathwork, among other modalities. Call for a FREE Consultation today!

FUNCTIONAL/Integrative MEDICINE CENTER FOR OCCUPATIONAL & ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE

Drs. Lieberman, Weirs and Herbert 843-572-1600 • coem.com Preventive and personalized health care with over 75 years of combined medical practice. Board-certified Environmental, Functional and Integrative Medicine. We get to the root cause of your illness. Allergy testing, autoimmune diseases, women’s health. See ads, pages 2 and 42.

HEALTH FOOD STORES

1240-C Central Ave, Summerville 843-873-3953 GodsGreenAcreOnline.com Your doorway to total health.

Serving Summerville for over 40 years. Natural and gluten-free products. Probiotics, organic oils, vitamins and supplements, essential oils and more.

VITAMIN PLUS+

Herbs and Health Foods 119 N Goose Creek Blvd, Ste K Goose Creek • 843-797-3200 Best selection of herbs in South Carolina. Organic teas, spices, supplements, essential oils, wheat-free and gluten-free products. 10am-7pm Mon-Sat; closed Sunday.

HEALTH & WELLNESS BEMER DISTRIBUTOR

Gerry Schmidt, PhD 843-588-9286 • HelpCirculation.com Gerry.Lee.Schmidt@gmail.com Reverse aging in just eight minutes, two times a day with BEMER—reduces inflammation, pain, digestive issues, improves sleep and energy/vitality, plus more. Used by NASA and Olympic teams in 42 countries for 15 years. Try it free.

Connect with your Masters, Teachers, Loved Ones and Guides for information about your health, wellness, life purpose and healing.

Discover and remove blocks, delve into the root cause of disease or emotional issues and learn to heal!

Sessions in person, phone or Skype.

life coach Victoria Hargis 843-284-6810 VictoriaHargis.com

Eliminate emotional barriers and live life free! PTSD intervention, anxiety and trauma release. Leadership Coach. Fast and permanent results.

Master Coach Certified. NLP, brain retraining, PSTEC. Services provided in HIPPA compliant platform online or in person.

LIVERANI LIFE COACHING Steve Liverani, BCC 440-476-6928 LiveraniLifeCoaching.com

Supportive, collaborative guidance designed to help you unlock your potential. Tapping into your inner strength will provide the clarity and direction you desire for living a meaningful and successful life. See ad, page 15.

Change your water, change your life!

Thomas P Meletis, Distributor 843-729-7837 • TPM13@aol.com Water is the single most important element that goes in our body.

Drinking the right type of water may be the single most important piece in achieving and maintaining optimal health. Visit KangenDemo. com to see a comparison. View all eight machines at TopShelfWater.net. Financing at zero interest.

INTUITIVE GUIDANCE CAROL COTTRELL, INTUITIVE MEDIUM

By appointment only 815 Savannah Hwy, West Ashley 843-324-6460 • Carol@CCottrell.com CCottrell.com

280 W Coleman Blvd, Ste E Mt Pleasant • 843-388-4956 EucalyptusWellness.com

Vitamins and supplements, CBD oil, bulk herbs, Wyndmere and doTerra essential oils, alkaline ionized water, facial and body care. New Elixir Bar! Herbal elixirs, blended drinks and fresh raw juices. Open Mon-Fri, 7am-7pm. Saturdays 8am-7pm, Sundays, 11am-5pm.

NA Lowcountry Edition

Lisa Caplinger, Intuitive Healer and Holistic Nutritionist By appointment only 843-469-4487 TheHealingHouseWithLisa.com

KANGEN IONIZED WATER

EUCALYPTUS WELLNESS & ELIXIR BAR

40

The Healing House with Lisa

NALowcountry.com

Connect with passed loved ones to experience healing, love and guidance. Individual or group readings available in person or via Skype. Mediumship classes also available.

Jennifer Iamele Savage, M.ED Certified Life Coach 508-942-0402 InspirationAndBliss.com

A trained Montessori educator and intuitive life coach, specializing in transitions and soul purpose coaching. Eliminate blocks, work through transitions, and discover your purpose. Courses on the use of essential oils for healing, journaling and vision boards to manifest your dreams.

ALEKA THORVALSON, CPC, PCC

Aloha Healing Arts Life Strategies Coaching and Hypnosis 843-870-7455 • Alekasky.com

Federation.

Achieve lasting transformation that awakens the whole self. Release blocks, gain clarity, purpose, inspiration and motivation.

Individuals—Couples—Families.

Professionally credentialed coach with the International Coach

ORGANIC SALON & BOUTIQUE COTTAGE AROMA BELLA DAY SPA

2671 Fort Trenholm Rd, Johns Island 843-266-3619 CottageAromaBella.com Relax and renew your mind, body and soul while enjoying our luxurious services. All treatments are tailored just for you using the finest all-natural products.

See ad, page 19.

RIVER OF LIFE

Eileen Ayers Mino, RN, Reiki Holy Fire Master Teacher • Reiki and Past-Life Recall 301 E Richardson Ave, Summerville 860-857-4815 Usui HF Reiki Treatments and classes—Reiki I to Master. Reiki works on all levels of Body, Mind and Spirit. Past-Life Recall— explore your past; tap into your subconscious.

Jody Lemmon 615 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Ste 101 Mt Pleasant 843-882-5015 • JodyLemmon.com J Salon is passionate about healthy hair and overall wellness of the human body. We strive to give the best customer service and build long-lasting relationships with our clients. See ad, page 30.

SALON INDIGO

732 S Shelmore Blvd, Ste 100 Mt Pleasant (Shelmore Village) 843-991-6835 Our experienced team of hairstylists and skin care specialist use 100 percent-certified organic products.

We specialize in haircutting, coloring and make-up application. We sell All Nutrient™, Moroccan Oils, Dr. Hauschka™, 100% Pure™, iLike™ and many other boutique items.

OSTEOPATHY CENTER FOR OCCUPATIONAL & ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE Dr. Bettina Herbert 843-572-1600 • coem.com

Dr. Bettina Herbert, MD, has 25 years of osteopathic experience and is board certified in Physical Medicine. Treatment uses gentle manipulation primarily using cranial osteopathy to relieve pain, improve performance and promote healing.

See ads, pages 2 and 42.

reiki BODHI TREE CHARLESTON

GERRY SCHMIDT, PhD

Master Coach Central location • 843-478-4090 GerrySchmidt.com Awaken to who you really are. Get unstuck, empowered, implement your vision. Never let fear decide your fate. Get results. Individuals, families, group sessions.

Complimentary intro session. See ad, page 13.

relocation specialist DI JOHNSON

J SALON

Transformational Coach

Yoga SEED OF LIFE COLLECTIVE

Agent Owned Mt Pleasant 843-270-6448 DiJohnsonSC@gmail.com Di has relocated over 300 Boeing families to the Charleston area. She brings 15 years of experience as a top producing agent to assist her clients with all aspects of buying and selling a home. She would love to help you!

soul coach WE EMPOWER CONSCIOUSNESS LLC Dr. Wendy M. Perrell, Certified Soul Coach and Shaman 907-317-2483 • wperrell@wppec.com Meetup: Charleston~Mastering Alignment with Your Soul’s Purpose

Your Soul speaks to me! I channel Archangel Raphael to help you heal fear, guilt, shame, unworthiness and unlovable energy that holds you back from your Soul’s purpose. We provide spiritual tools and practices that enlighten and empower you to enjoy love, wealth, health, joy and balance. Mention this ad to receive $25 off first session.

THERMOGRAPHY BREAST THERMOGRAPHY INTL Shanna Schulze Rivera 877-315-7226, ext 447 EarlyDetectionIsKey@gmail.com btiscan.com

Christy Boaman, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist 600 and Yoga Instructor 200 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston • 843-991-0876 ChristyBoaman@gmail.com, ChristyBoaman.com Cultivate and Strengthen your mindbody connection through Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy. Uniting your psychological experience of life to the physical experience of life, yoga therapy creates access to the resource that has been with you since the beginning, your Body. With Divorce, Loss, Transition or Trauma, this therapeutic modality connects you to the wisdom of the body where you can discover the tools you need to move forward.

Serving the Tri-County Area.

Darkness cannot

drive out darkness; only light can do that.

Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Radiation-free cancer and inflammation screening. Locations in South Florida, West Florida and South Carolina. Injury documentation, determine origination of pain, evaluate nerve pathology and monitor progress of current treatments.

Maureen Donohue, LMT #3231 792 Folly Rd, James Island 843-327-4761 BodhiTreeCharleston.com

Client-focused, heart-centered, therapeutic reiki and massage.

Maureen Donohue is a Usui Reiki Master/Teacher, massage therapist and Medical Reiki Master™.

Teaching reiki classes throughout the Southeast, approved by NCBTMB as a CEU provider.

natural awakenings

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588 Old Mt. Holly Rd. Goose Creek, SC 29445

843-203-8313