Natural Awakenings Lowcountry March 2017

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

FREE

Healthy FATS

Boost Brain Health and Metabolism

H E A L T H Y

P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Eat For Holistic Wellness Eye Care How to Move Past Food Sensitivities

Taking the Whole Body into Account

March 2017 | Lowcountry Edition | NALowcountry.com

03-17 issue

An Integrative Wellness Experience

FEST 2017

Shelmore Village in Mt Pleasant March 11, 2017 11-5 pm

Speakers, Yoga, Meditation, Wellness Village and Marketplace, Music and Food 843-572-1711

is a proud sponsor of Live Well Fest

A P R

Advertising Deadline March 10

Coming Next Month

Medical Massage Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for Therapeutic Massage

To advertise or participate in our next issue, call: 843-821-7404 or email: PublisherNALowcountry@gmail.com

Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. ~Mahatma Ghandi.

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.

18 7 IMPORTANTS WAYS

WORKING WITH A LIFE COACH IMAPROVES EMOTIONAL HEALTH

by Diana Deaver

20 FEARLESS EATING

How to Move Past Food Sensitivities

by Kathleen Barnes

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

24 NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ITCHY PETS

mathisferrydentistry.com

Gentle Ways to Calm Allergies

20 24

by Sandra Murphy

26 HOLISTIC EYE CARE Taking the Whole Body into Account

by Linda Sechrist

28 THUMBS-UP ON FATS

Good Fat Doesn’t Make Us Fat

Holistic Boutique & Gift sHop

by Judith Fertig

29 FARMERS MARKET CALENDAR

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

30 SILENCING

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

by April Thompson

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

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

4

NA Lowcountry Edition

How to Defuse Bad Actors

32 DR. JOSEPH MERCOLA On Simple Steps to Well-Being

by Judith Fertig

Charmed is located at Look for the purple door!

CYBERBULLIES

26

(843) 352-2983

NALowcountry.com

33 RETURNING TO JOY

IN TURBULENT TIMES

by Andrew Harvey and Carolyn Baker

30

10 7 newsbriefs 10 healthbriefs 13 globalbriefs 15 ecotip 16 readersnapshot 17 community spotlight 13 19 business

spotlight 24 naturalpet 26 healingways 28 consciouseating 30 healthykids 32 wisewords 15 34 calendar 37 classifieds 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: Publishernalowcountry@gmail.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month for the next month’s issue.

EDITORIAL submissions FOR NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publishernalowcountry@gmail.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month for the next month’s issue. calendar submissions FOR NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE Deadline: the 10th of the month for the next month’s issue.

- Calendar Event submit to: nalowcountry.com/event-entry.html - Ongoing Event submit to: nalowcountry.com/recurring-events-calendar.html regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

NALowcountry.com natural awakenings

March 2017

5

letterfrompublisher

I

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 PublisherNALowcountry@gmail.com Phone: 843-821-7404 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 your ideas, articles and feedback.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soybased ink.

6

NA Lowcountry Edition

am so excited to have our first cover by a local artist! Next month marks my one-year anniversary as publisher, and as stated in previous letters, my goal has been (and continues to be) to localize this magazine—to have it reflect our beautiful, diverse and historic community.

This month’s cover is another step in that direction. Thank you Sally Boiter for sharing your art with Natural Awakenings readers! I love the energy in Sally’s work. I also thought it was particularly fitting with the Bridge Run coming up on April 1.

Are you interested in your art gracing our cover? We are looking for local landscapes and landmarks, nature and seasonal art. Please email PublisherNALowcountry@ gmail.com to submit your work for consideration. If selected for our cover, we will publish a one-third page artist’s biography. Your cover art may also be selected by one or more of the approximately 90 Natural Awakenings editions published in cities across the country and abroad.

Can you feel spring coming? Now is the time to start thinking about yard and garden plans. This month, we introduce a Business Spotlight section, with EarthFriendly Landscapes as our first featured company. Going with the eco-friendly alternative does not always equal spending more, but it is important to do your research to ensure a company is truly as green as it claims to be. Justin Gough stands by his EarthFriendly name. Read about him and his company on page 19.

The ratio of local to national content will continue to increase in these pages.

While I love the national articles, I also want to provide the local angle on topics covered and want to feature the resources and the people of our area. One of the ways I am doing this is by including a Reader Snapshot in each issue. This month, we meet Dian Sharma, a recent retiree making a difference in our community by raising money for the Charleston Humane Society through her art. Are you a loyal Natural Awakenings reader interested in sharing your story? If so, please email PublisherNALowcountry@gmail.com to be considered. Please note that this section is intended to feature individuals, not promote businesses.

To say the year is off to a tumultuous start is an understatement, but I am encouraged that people seem to be paying more attention and getting involved.

“Returning to Joy in Turbulent Times,” by Andrew Harvey and Carolyn Baker, on page 33, tells us how we can find joy regardless of outside circumstances.

Every once in a while, we all can use a little help navigating the complexities of our lives. Check out Diana Deaver’s article, “7 Ways Working with a Life Coach Improves Emotional Health,” on page 18. You can find practitioners from a variety of disciplines in our Community Resource Guide, including some great life coaches.

Do you have any chronic, perplexing physical conditions? Take the Food Intolerances Quiz on page 23 to see if food sensitivities could be the problem.

Then read about common culprits and coping strategies in “Fearless Eating, How to Move Past Food Sensitivities,” on page 20. The correlation between increased consumption of processed foods and the spike in food sensitivities and allergies, obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other diseases is very clear. Read labels, and opt for fewer ingredients and less human interference whenever possible. Food from farms, especially local ones, is a healthier choice than food from a lab.

These are just some of the articles featured this month, but as always, there is great information throughout these pages—all designed to help you feel good, live simply and laugh more. Happy March!

Toni Owen Conover, Publisher NALowcountry.com

newsbriefs Seva Stress-Release Classes

S

eva Stress-Release classes will be offered March 11 and 25 by Susan Popiel, at Popiel Holistic Therapy, in Mt. Pleasant. Popiel is a registered nurse and a certified practitioner of Clinical and Process Acupressure.

The Seva acupressure formula was developed following the events of September 11, 2001. It was created as a gift to the world to relieve suffering and was taken to New York City and delivered to the rescue workers who endured such tremendous stress at that time.

Since 2001, the Seva Stress Release has been found to be an easy-to-learn method that can be used for self-care or the support of others. Because Seva is noninvasive, requires no special equipment, is simple to perform, and only takes minutes, it can be given to anyone in virtually any setting. It is a method for addressing a wide range of needs, including general relaxation or extreme shock and stress.

The initial three-hour class, Seva for Self-Care (Part 1), provides instruction in utilizing the protocol for self-treatment.

It is an interactive class that will allow participants to fully experience the Seva Stress Release through demonstration and hands-on practice. In this workshop, participants learn about the healing and transforming power of acupressure, practice techniques to use for self-care, and take home skills they can use for the rest of their life.

Seva for Others (Part 2), also a three-hour class, teaches how to provide Seva to others. After taking modules one and two, students have enough information and skill to practice easily on themselves, as well as on family and friends.

Classes are open to anyone age 10 to 100. Continuing education credits are available for nurses, massage therapists, and Asian bodywork therapists.

Outdoor Living Classes Sign up for quick one-day classes at Trident Technical College Learn gardening basics, types of flowers and herbs, fruit tree growth, garden design, composting and much more! Get out and breathe in the fresh air as you begin to enjoy outdoor living in Charleston. Register today!

www.tridenttech.edu/ce • 843.574.6152

Cost: $60 per three-hour course. Location: 1037-D Chuck Dawley Blvd., Ste. 206, Mt. Pleasant. For more information or to register, call Susan Popiel at 843834-4168. See listing, page 38. natural awakenings

March 2017

7

coverartist

iGoddess Fair at the Gaillard Center, April 15 A Day-Long Immersive Experience

T

Meet Sally Boiter (soon-to-be Sally Bunting), aka Sally B Art. Boiter is a native South Carolinian who has always had a love for all things creative. After moving to Charleston in 2008 to attend the College of Charleston, she knew this was where she would spend the rest of her life. She has rapidly grown as an emerging artist since officially launching her art career last year.

Boiter’s pieces encompass an eclectic, energetic nature. “My art and use of bright color schemes coincide a lot with my personality and how I like to envision the world that we live in—cheerful and animated.” A signature of her style is found in the boldness and vibrancy of her palettes in combination with a whimsical approach to her subjects.

Boiter has been expanding her portfolio to include more diverse subject matters, pushing the boundaries of her artistic comfort zones and finding new expressions of her artistry. “I’m constantly inspired by my everyday environments. Traveling and being surrounded by so many amazing creatives helps get me even more motivated and willing to take risks.”

Boiter’s love of Charleston combined with her artistic passion came to beautiful fruition with her painting of The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, an iconic Charleston landmark. The astounding essence of the bridge coupled with her stylistic twist on this classic image produced this eye-capturing work.

For more information, visit SallyBunting. com, SallyBuntingArt.Wordpress.com, Instagram: @sally_b_art and Facebook. com/sallybuntingart.

8

NA Lowcountry Edition

he inaugural iGoddess Fair will be held at the Charleston Gaillard Center, Saturday, April 15, from noon to 7 p.m. The purpose of the event is to inspire all people and honor women in a celebration of music, entertainment and enlightenment. There will be a showing of the documentary Her Story, Part 1, followed by a live panel of women sharing their stories. Attendees will be treated to speaker and author of Warrior Goddess Training, Heatherash Amara; interactive workshops; a fashion show; a gift fair; painting classes with Wine & Canvas; a bookstore; live music; an art auction featuring local artists; a dance party; and more. “iGoddess Fair welcomes everyone and offers community members an opportunity to find their passion, discover women-owned businesses, and learn new ways to find inspiration and balance in their busy lives,” shares event founder Suzie Webster, who has partnered with Mackie Moore, founder and director of Thrive SC, and Carmen Young, founder of The Serenity Center, in Summerville, to produce the event. With so much tension and dissension in the world, they believe it is the perfect time to come together and celebrate women, try something new, and just have fun.

Proceeds from the fair will benefit Thrive SC, which works with victims of domestic violence to help them build a new life by providing transitional housing and holistic resources. In a move to celebrate the accomplishment of Thrive’s survivors, they will be showcased in the iGoddess fashion show wearing some of Charleston’s coolest new styles.

Cost: $25, $27.80 with fees. Location: 95 Calhoun St., Charleston. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit iGoddessFair.com. See ad, page 3.

New Home for Bodhi Tree Charleston

B

odhi Tree Charleston has a beautiful new office space, classroom and reiki clinic nestled within Healing Oasis, located at 772 St. Andrews Boulevard, in West Ashley. This charming sanctuary was founded

by Beverly Lucas and her husband, Dave. The center is also home to Dakini Acupuncture, CranioSacral Therapy, massage and more.

Maureen Bodhi Tree is also thrilled to announce the return of the monthly Donohue Community Reiki Clinic, held the second Wednesday of the month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The next clinic takes place March 8. The evening, which is open to both reiki practitioners and those wanting to receive a treatment, starts with a Centering Circle, then all practitioners give 15- to 20-minute reiki treatments. The evening ends with practitioners giving treatments to each other. The clinic operates on a love donation basis.

Those with spare tables are encouraged to bring them. There is a very small parking lot located behind Healing Oasis. Street parking in front of the building or next door at the dentist after hours are the best options.

Self-love (and spreading a little more) is vital during these challenging times.

With the current environment in mind, Bodhi Tree’s Maureen Donohue felt compelled to offer a place to come together to create peace and healing. “This rare and beautiful new space is the perfect fit for Bodhi Tree Charleston and our continuing adventures,” says Donahue. “I look forward to offering this safe space for all!”

For more information, call Maureen Donohue at 843-327-4761, or visit BodhiTreeCharleston.com or the Facebook page for the latest events at Bodhi Tree Charleston. See listing, page 41.

NALowcountry.com

Incluza-Palooza: Celebrating Unity Through Entertainment and Action

A

few days after the 2016 election, a group of Charleston women gathered together wondering how this country could have given in to such negativity. They decided to create a positive event to promote what they love about America, and Incluza-Palooza was born.

To be held Friday, March 24, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Stern Center Ballroom at the College of Charleston, Incluza-Palooza celebrates diversity through entertainment and action. Incluza-Palooza is part variety show and part community action event, bringing together local performers, community members, college students, and activists for a fun and positive evening to honor the rich diversity that makes Charleston great.

The organizers hope to gather together people looking to volunteer, donate and support local organizations that may be negatively impacted by the current political climate. Incluza-Palooza is sponsored by the Women’s and Gender Studies Department and the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs at the College of Charleston, and will host tables from a number of local nonprofit organizations.

Proceeds from the $5 suggested donations will be divided among the attending organizations.

The entertainment for the night will include music, comedy and spoken word.

Some featured performers include Renard Harris, John R. Brennan, The Amazing Mittens, Joy Vandervort-Cobb and Chaquis Maliq. American Sign Language interpretation will be provided by Erin Hoyle. The sponsors say they stand together in solidarity with their partners and children for the protection of rights, safety, health and families, recognizing that vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of our country. When confronted with the question of how to move forward in the face of national and international concern and fear, Incluza-Palooza is a way of getting at an answer.

Location: 71 George St., Charleston. For more information, visit the IncluzaPalooza 2017 event page on Facebook. See ad on this page.

Believe

in Yourself:

Change

Your Life Story I can help you: • Gain clarity and focus • Release anxiety, fear, sadness • Resolve relationship challenges • Relieve tension; be peaceful • Get unstuck and moving in your life and career

Release fears and experience joy again With This Approach: • No dwelling on your past.

Hynotherapy identifies and quickly resolves core issues • The utilization of proven neuroscience (NLP). Results come quicker than in typical therapy modalities.

• Training on tools to help you tap into your own inner wisdom

FREE 30 minute session: Call NOW! 843-478-4090

Gerry Schmidt, NLP master Practitioner “Gerry’s ability to quickly get to the heart of the issue is amazing.” Jan

www.GerrySchmidt.com natural awakenings

March 2017

9

Z

ero Balancing (ZB for short) is an innovative body-mind system of hands-on therapy developed in the 1970s by Fritz Smith, M.D., DO, LAc, a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine. In a ZB session, the client rests on a treatment table while the practitioner uses comfortable finger pressure and gentle traction to engage body structure and body energy. Clients experience deep relaxation, internal organization, and improved function as a result of the release of tension and restrictions. Benefits of ZB can include alleviating stress, relieving musculoskeletal tension, reducing physical and emotional pain, enhancing wellness and balance, and improving mobility.

ZB works on the idea that a person is both body and mind— both structure and energy. ZB helps balance a person’s energy with his or her physical body, allowing him or her to release stress and just feel great. The name Zero Balancing was established after Smith received feedback from an early client who stood up from the treatment table and stated, “I feel like I’m balanced back to zero.”

Simple yet powerful, ZB focuses on the whole person, even while addressing specific needs. A clear state of balance helps relieve pain and suffering, and provides a foundation for health and happiness. ZB promotes this balanced state.

For more information, call Susan Popiel at 843-834-4168 or visit ZeroBalancing.com. See listing, page 38.

10

NA Lowcountry Edition

No Benefit to Cutting Fat in Cheese

A

nyone that has struggled to reduce their intake of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol) may have considered avoiding saturated fat in their diets, although the latest metastudy published in the Annals of Internal Medicine now refutes this. Researchers from the University of Copenhagen, in Denmark, conducted a test to determine if consuming low-fat versus regular cheeses impacts LDL cholesterol levels.

The study divided 139 people into three groups. One ate regular fat cheese, one consumed reduced-fat cheese and one didn’t eat any cheese at all for 12 weeks. Both LDL and high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good” cholesterol) levels were tested at the beginning and end of the period. Researchers found no significant difference in the LDL levels of any of the groups and no difference between the HDL levels of the reduced-fat and regular cheese groups, suggesting that consuming low-fat versions has no measurable metabolic benefit.

An increase in HDL levels among those that abstained from eating cheese altogether was noted.

The Five-Second Rule Debunked

T

he five-second rule is a belief that food that falls to the floor can be safely eaten as long as it’s picked up quickly. Researchers from Rutgers University, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, sought to test its veracity.

Four different food items were tested, including watermelon, bread and butter, plain bread and gummy candy, using four different surfaces—stainless steel, ceramic tile, wood and carpet.

Each surface was contaminated by bacteria and completely dry before the scientists dropped each item for one second, five, 30 and 300 seconds. A total of 128 separate scenarios were repeated 20 times each and 2,560 measurements were taken and analyzed for contamination.

The results proved that longer contact time resulted in more bacterial contamination, but there were also cases of instantaneous contamination, which disproves the five-second rule. The wet surface of a watermelon yielded the most contamination and gummy candy the least. The surface tests yielded surprising results, with carpet transferring significantly fewer bacteria than tile and stainless steel, while wood floors exhibited varied results.

If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one. ~Mother Teresa NALowcountry.com

Joe Belanger/Shutterstock.com

What Is Zero Balancing?

healthbriefs

Yeko Photo Studio/Shutterstock.com

local healthbrief

A

new study from King’s College London has found that children’s use of electronic devices close to bedtime can reduce their chances of a good night’s sleep. Researchers examined 20 existing studies encompassing 125,000 children between the ages of 6 and 19. They found that youngsters using a device within 90 minutes of falling asleep had an increased likelihood of poor and inadequate sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Study author Ben Carter, Ph.D., says, “Sleep is an often undervalued, but important part of children’s development, with a regular lack of sleep causing a variety of health problems.”

These can include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, reduced immune function and poor diet. Poor food choices and excessive eating can start young, as illustrated in a study from Colorado University, in Boulder, which found a link between sleep deprivation and poor diet choices in preschool children.

The Colorado study followed five girls and five boys, ages 3 and 4, that were regular afternoon nappers. They were deprived of their naps for one day, during which their food and beverage consumption was monitored and compared with their choices on a day when their sleep routine remained intact. During the sleep-deprived day, the children ate 20 percent more calories than usual and their diet consisted of 25 percent more sugar and 26 percent more carbohydrates.

esearchers from the Harvard School of Public Health, in Boston, used data from previous studies to discern the association between dairy and animal fats and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in American adults.

The study reviewed dairy fat and other fat consumption data using validated food-frequency questionnaires from more than 43,000 men and 175,000 women during three different studies, each spanning at least 20 consecutive years. Of the subjects studied, 14,815 developed some form of CVD, close to 7 percent of the total.

The researchers found that replacing dairy foods with foods containing polyunsaturated fats—primarily found in vegetables, nuts and fish—in just 5 percent of a subject’s diet reduced the risk of CVD by an average of 24 percent. But replacing the same percentage of dairy fats with other animal fats increased the incidence of CVD by 6 percent.

Stress and Fatigue Abate with Combo Supplement

A

study from Dijon, France, found that a specific nutrient combination supplement can help reduce feelings of anxiety and tiredness. Researchers studied 242 subjects between the ages of 18 and 70 that complained of stress and fatigue. Each was given a supplement containing magnesium, probiotics, vitamins and minerals to take for one month.

Researchers measured the subjects’ stress and fatigue levels before commencing the test period and again one month later. They found a 22 percent reduction in psychological stress and a 45 percent reduction in fatigue. Thirty days after the supplementation was discontinued, the subjects’ stress and fatigue levels remained reduced.

J SALON

Jody Lemmon Hair & Makeup

HAIR COLOR & HIGHLIGHTS

MAKEUP & WAXING

HAIR CUTS & BLOWOUTS

BRIDAL HAIR & MAKEUP

615 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Suite 101 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-882-5015 jodylemmon.com

natural awakenings

March 2017

11

ESB Professional/Shutterstock.com

Kids Going Online at Bedtime Sleep Poorly

R

colnihko/Shutterstock.com

HTU/Shutterstock.com

Veggie, Fish and Nut Fats Preserve Heart Health

L

utein and zeaxanthin are known key carotenoids for eye health, filtering out harmful high-energy blue wavelengths of light and helping to protect and maintain cells comprising the eye. The human body does not make enough of either nutrient, so we must get them from supplements or food sources such as kale, spinach, collard greens, turnip greens, corn, green peas, broccoli, romaine lettuce, green beans and eggs.

Researchers from the University of Georgia, in Athens, investigated the relationship between levels of lutein and zeaxanthin and cognitive function. They measured the levels of each nutrient in the retinas of 43 older adults with a mean age of 72 and asked that the subjects learn and recall pairs of unrelated words. The study found that those with higher levels of both nutrients did better on the test, suggesting that the enhanced neural efficiency that comes from consuming these nutrients leads to better brain function.

8484 Dorchester Rd Suite 12-B

Coosaw Creek Center

Attention Animal Lovers!

Email your favorite picture of your pet to: publishernalowcountry@gmail.com for possible inclusion in the magazine.

12

NA Lowcountry Edition

leungchopan/Shutterstock.com

Call today to schedule a free skin and hair consultation 843-767-0311

Wheezing Toddlers Prone to Food Allergies

R

esearchers in Singapore studied the relationship between eczema and wheezing in babies and food allergies in toddlers. They collected data from 849 children that had completed skin prick testing for inhalant and food allergies, including eggs, peanuts and cow’s milk at 18 months and 36 months of age. The resulting data were compared to information obtained from questionnaires administered to the children’s mothers at several intervals throughout their first three years of life to determine the prevalence of allergic diseases such as eczema and rhinitis, along with wheezing.

The researchers found children that experienced eczema or wheezing within their first 18 months were more likely to have an allergy at 36 months. Occurrences of eczema or wheezing after youngsters were 18 months old appeared to have no notable impact on the later allergy skin test results.

DHA Boosts Elder Brain Function

R

esearchers from Tianjin Medical University, in China, have discovered that regularly taking docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) improves brain function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. A total of 219 adults over the age of 65 participated in the randomized, double-blind, 12-month trial. Half of the subjects were given two grams of this omega-3 fatty acid daily, while the others received a placebo.

The researchers measured cognitive function, including a full-scale intelligence quotient (IQ) test and two IQ subtests which serve as indicators of both short and long-term memory. The tests were administered after six months and again after 12 months. The DHA group showed a 10 percent higher IQ than the placebo group. There were also significant increases in both IQ subtests and brain hippocampus volume in the DHA group. Decreased hippocampus volume is a primary indicator of Alzheimer’s disease.

NALowcountry.com

Naeblys/Shutterstock.com

Specializing in Organic hair color, nail care and products, featuring Repechage Facials

Yuganov Konstantin/Shutterstock.com

Eye Health Nutrients Also Aid the Brain

globalbriefs

FEEL CALM and CONFIDENT

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

The Magnesphere magnets will WIPE AWAY your anxieties and gently RESTORE your Peace of Mind

Botanical Breakthrough

In many large commercial chicken farms, the animals are fed antibiotics to keep them healthy and fight off infections. But due to consumer demand, McDonald’s has eliminated antibiotics used in human medicine from its entire restaurant chicken supply.

Meanwhile, a farm in Pennsylvania owned by Scott Sechler is among the first to rely solely on a mix of oregano oil and cinnamon in the treatment and care of its chickens. In addition to being completely natural, oregano oil supplies the chickens with health advantages, producing a much higher quality of natural chicken in a far more humane method than that attained using antibiotics. Like antibiotics, the oil assists the chickens in battling any infections, reducing the number of birds lost to disease.

Bob Ruth, president of another Pennsylvania farming business, has been testing oregano on his pigs for six months to see if it can outperform prescription antibiotics. Related problems arise when animals live in dirty conditions, making them more susceptible to infections and viruses, which can also be triggered by insufficient cleansing of slaughterhouses that must be hosed down and completely sanitized after each act of butchery. He thinks that drugs should not be a requirement if the farmers keep things tidy.

Raw Hide

A Veggie Leather Alternative

The first 10 people to call this month will receive a for more information: free www.magnesphere.info/ session 843-270-9913 Dr. Ann wants to fix the problem ...not just treat it!

1164 Northbridge Dr. Charleston, SC 29407 nt the Seed

Researchers from Iowa State University have developed a new form of synthetic leather using cellulose fibers taken Pla www.drannjenkins.com from kombucha tea, along with vinegar and sugar, made www.facebook.com/drannjenkins in shallow plastic tanks. When a colony of bacteria and yeast is added, the material grows on the top of the liqNot Your Ordinary Buy Chiropractor into your uid’s surface, where it can be harvested and dried. community

The researchers have successfully used the material to … Support our advertisers make prototype garments, including shoes and a vest. It’s 100 percent biodegradable, so when the fabric gets wet, it softens and becomes less durable; in very low temperatures, it can become brittle.

Young-A Lee, Ph.D., associate professor of apparel, merchandising and design at Iowa State University, in Ames, says, “Fashion, to most people, is an ephemeral expression of culture, art and technology, manifesting itself in practical form. Fashion • Is it recycled or made from Make your community companies keep producing new materials and clothing, from season to season,a little GREENER …sustainableBEFORE materials?

YOU BUY: Support our advertisers year to year, to fulfill consumers’ desires and needs. Think about where these items 1. Is it recycled • Is it resource saving?

For every $100 spent or made from eventually go. They will take up tremendous underground spaces of the Earth, like in locally sustainable owned business, materials?

• Is it vintage or $68 returns to the community other trash.”

2. Is it resource pre-owned saving?

Spanish designer Carmen Hijosa has created Piñatex, another faux-leather 3. Is it vintage or product made from pineapple leaf fibers as a more sustainable and cruelty-free pre-owned?

Asking these questions Asking these alternative. She acted after seeing how leather tanneries operate. before you buy questions can help Igor Gorelchenkov/Shutterstock.com

Bukhanovskyy/Shutterstock.com

Oregano Oil Proves a Safe Antibiotic for Poultry

Grow your business with Natural Awakenings

Directions: Call 850-316-7485 or email PcolaPublisher@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

to discuss an advertising package to suit every budget.

THINK

source: the350project.net

before you

Source: News.iastate.edu

buy can help you make a green choice you make a green choice.

natural awakenings

March 2017

13

Clean Jeans

Laundry Machines Boost School Attendance

14

NA Lowcountry Edition

In the nation’s produce basket, some California water districts are knowingly selling oilfield wastewater to farmers, putting a huge portion of our fruits and vegetables at risk of contamination. Watchdog group Water Defense uncovered one district buying oilfield wastewater to include in the water it sells to farmers to irrigate crops in California’s Central Valley. This year, Food & Water Watch uncovered another district buying this potentially toxic wastewater and selling it to farmers.

A threat to California’s agriculture is a threat to the entire country’s food supply. Some staples of which California is the primary U.S. producer include 99 percent of olives, 99 percent of almonds, 98 percent of garlic, 96 percent of broccoli, 95 percent of celery, 91 percent of strawberries, 91 percent of lemons and 83 percent of fresh carrots.

The government is allowing oil companies to sell their wastewater for use on crops. Citizens must call on their elected representatives to fix this broken system and protect our food supply.

Source: FoodAndWaterWatch.org

Bag Ban

California Outlaws Single-Use Plastic Bags Pavel Kubarkov/Shutterstock.com

Kids in middle schools with attendance problems may simply lack clean clothes to wear. An experiment by the Whirlpool company has taken on the issue with significant results.

The Whirlpool Care Counts Program donated 17 pairs of washers and dryers to school districts in St. Louis and Fairfield, California.

Kids with attendance problems were asked to bring their laundry to be cleaned while they were in class. Each student had approximately 50 loads of laundry done at school during the year, and more than 90 percent increased their attendance, with at-risk students attending almost two more weeks in class. Whirlpool is now expanding the program.

Compared to factors such as economic opportunity, unemployment and institutional racism, laundry might seem inconsequential, but for a 10-year-old facing stacked odds, having nothing clean to wear could be the deciding factor in whether or not they want to face their classmates that day.

Seventh-grade teacher Alison Guernsey, in Fairfield, says, “One of my students had more or less withdrawn from school completely. After we started the program, he was more excited about coming and started to actively engage in class. He didn’t feel like an outsider anymore.”

Oil Wastewater Irrigating California Fields

California’s ongoing ban on single-use plastic carryout bags, approved by 52 percent of voters, is setting a notable precedent for other states. A coalition of environmental groups, grocers and others are collaborating, and Mark Murray, of Californians Against Waste, welcomes elimination of the 25 million plastic bags that pollute California every day, threatening wildlife.

In 2007, San Francisco first banned plastic shopping bags, setting off a movement that led nearly half the state, including its biggest cities, to do the same. Although the legislature passed a statewide ban on plastic bags two years ago, paper bags are still for sale at grocery stores and other outlets for a nominal fee.

Junior Achievement

Take the Kids to Work The Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Foundation (TODASTW) is holding its annual national event on April 27, offering new toolkits and activity guides based on this year’s theme of Dependability at DaughtersAndSonsToWork.org. The group assists businesses, families, schools and organizations throughout the year initiate their own special work day for children and mentees.

Each year, more than 3.5 million American workplaces open their doors to about 39 million employees and their children on TODASTW Day. “Human resources and marketing professionals are typically responsible for creating this day within their companies,” says Carolyn McKeucen, the foundation’s executive director. “We provide templates and automated planning elements to save them time while ensuring success for planners and participants.”

NALowcountry.com

Dima Sidelnikov/Shutterstock.com

Jessie Eldora Robertson/Shutterstock.com

Richard Thornton/Shutterstock.com

Toxic Crops

ecotip Eco-Joe

Making a Cuppa More Planet-Friendly com suggests reusable or unbleached, biodegradable alternatives such as the Medelco cone permanent filter and a French press.

4 For to-go drinkers, many coffee shops and restaurants will pour fresh brew into mugs that patrons bring in. Keeping a clean spoon in the car can save on plastic stirrers.

marlee/Shutterstock.com

A Gallup poll last year reported that 64 percent of U.S. adult coffee lovers consume one or more cups daily and the average number of cups quaffed each day is 2.7. We can express our affection for both java and the Earth by following these eco-tips.

4 Forego the convenience of single-cup, plastic pod makers like Keurig. As Mother Jones magazine recently reported, only 5 percent of current pods are made with recyclable plastic, and even those, having hard-toremove aluminum tops, pose recycling challenges. Keurig plans to make all of its pods recyclable by 2020.

4 Many other simpler coffee-making devices maximize energy use by facilitating more servings and reducing waste. Treehugger.com recommends the Moka Pot, a pressure-driven aluminum stovetop brewer; the Chemex Coffeemaker, a funnel-shaped glass unit with a wooden collar; the Canadian wood product Aeropress; an oldfashioned vacuum pot with two glass chambers connected by a thin neck; and a traditional non-electric stovetop percolator.

4 Some coffee farms exploit their workers, paying subsistence wages, damage rainforests and use unsustainable farming practices. Jake Carney, co-founder of TheAlternativeDaily.com, founded Lucy’s Bru, an organic wholebean coffee that’s exclusively shadegrown under fair trade conditions, sustainably farmed and free of harsh fertilizers and pesticides.

4 Reuse steel and aluminum coffee cans. ChasingGreen.org details how they can make effective dehumidifiers for damp basements when filled with salt; soak paint brushes in thinner solutions; store items in a garage or work space; and serve as a spot lawn or garden seeder after punching holes in the bottom.

The website also lists ways that coffee grounds can be used as a beauty, cleaning, deodorizer and dying agent.

4 Use better filters at home. Instead of paper, single-use filters, INeedCoffee.

The Sophia Institute TransformYour Life, Transform Our World Returning to Joy ANDREW HARVEY & CAROLYN BAKER March 17 | Friday Night Lecture 6:30-8:30pm March 18 | Full Retreat 9:30am-5:00pm Lance Hall, 150 Meeting St., Charleston

Mindfulness Training HENK BRANDT March 22 | 6-7:30pm

301 East Bay St., Charleston

~SAVE THE DATE~ MARIANNE WILLIAMSON April 28 & 29

The Way Under the Way: The Place of True Meeting MARK NEPO May 19 | Friday Night Lecture 6:30-8:30pm May 20 & 21 | Full Retreat 9:30-5pm Lance Hall, 150 Meeting St., Charleston TO REGISTER FOR OUR MARCH/APRIL/MAY PROGRAMS, VISIT

www.TheSophiaInstitute.org office location: 293 East Bay Street | Charleston, South Carolina 29401 843.720.8528 | info@TheSophiaInstitute.org natural awakenings

March 2017

15

readersnapshot Who’s a Natural Awakenings Reader?

Meet Dian Sharma— Mt. Pleasant Resident, Local Artist and Woman About Town Tell our readers a little about yourself: I grew up in Pennsylvania. Even as a child, I was fascinated with nature and passionate about animal rights. I pursued a doctorate in medical microbiology and immunology and began my career as an assistant professor at Cal State La. I went on to direct several clinical laboratories and pursue work in the field of public health throughout the United States. Some of my fondest memories come from my time as the St. Louis Health Commissioner. Among other accomplishments, I was the founder of the St. Louis Metropolitan AIDS Program. I recently retired to Mt. Pleasant and have discovered challenges—things I had not encountered ever during my previous busy working career. I didn’t have the business to distract me and could no longer avoid looking at myself as an older adult. There was a degree of vulnerability, and I was faced with trying to figure out who I was if I wasn’t a busy manager and director. What is evolving from this process is enriching and satisfying. Meeting this challenge allowed me to create my rich and varied retired life.

Work/mission: I have been a lifelong advocate for public health and animal rights and use my artistic talents with watercolors to support animals. My mission is to raise funds for the Charleston Humane Society. I am a volunteer there and respect their decision to be a NO KILL SHELTER! They have wonderful programs that spay and neuter feral cats, build dog pens for low-income

families, and educate the public about issues related to animal rights. I sell prints of my original work, donating 100 percent of the profit to the society. I am looking for public facilities or businesses having wall space on which I can hang my paintings for the Charleston Humane Society.

Other interests/passions: I have enjoyed painting since 1980. Originally, I worked in oil paint, but I fell in love with watercolors and acrylics. My subjects reflect the sentiment of love and respect that I have for animals and nature. My work has been shown in Florida galleries. I also study aikido, a form of judo-like martial arts.

I play the piano and have sung professionally. I am exploring teaching microbiology at the college level to physician assistant students. I am most grateful for the dear friends I have made in Charleston. When I first moved to Mt. Pleasant, I knew no one. I was lonely until several chance meetings with women of like-minded souls.

What do you like most about Natural Awakenings?

I strongly believe in the power of prevention and a healthy lifestyle. I enjoy reading Natural Awakenings monthly. I, particularly, enjoy the articles on “we are what we eat.” I realize the importance of diet and living a healthy lifestyle. Natural Awakenings gives me good information on things I can do to stay healthy.

To connect with Dian Sharma, email her at paracleet2@aol. com and insert “Interested in Art” in the subject line.

Reach New Heights of Awareness Heal your past. Find your path. Transform Your Life.

Find your spirit animal. Learn about your archetypes.

Soul retrieval. Past life retrieval. Divination, Energy Healing.

Call 843-452-7996 today to schedule a session and get a Free additional 30-minute reiki session.

Charleston reiki and tarot located within the Charleston holistic Center

“Laura has changed my life. I can confidently say this: she is my Yoda!” ~ Heather 16

NA Lowcountry Edition

NALowcountry.com

2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg #8 Charleston CharlestonReikiandTarot.com

communityspotlight

farm to participate in educational experiences while also volunteering their time to maintain the farm beds. Anyone can participate by attending Work and Learn Sessions, Lunch & Learns, and Special Events. Friends of the Farm are individuals and groups who visit the farm during scheduled sessions to participate in hands-on learning about sustainable urban agricultural practices, nutrition or other relevant topics. No prior experience is necessary. Additional opportunities are available for those who would like to participate on a more regular basis. These individuals will receive additional training. Those who take part in its growth can eventually walk away with the produce, paid for by their labor.

Empowering Citizens Through Holistic Health Care: MUSC’s Urban Garden An interview with Susan L. Johnson, Director of Health Promotion and Assistant Professor, Department of Health Studies, Medical University of South Carolina

by Jennifer Iamele Savage

T

he Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), in Charleston, is moving toward a preventive approach to health care, and places a high priority on providing healthy options and innovative programs for its employees, patients and the community. The mission of the MUSC Urban Farm is to build a healthier community by growing crops and social connections while educating and inspiring people with local, nutritious and delicious food. The organic farm operates year round, with produce planted and harvested during the spring and fall growing seasons.

How did your organization get started?

Johnson: Our former president, Dr. Ray Greenberg, was the champion for the project and understood the value.

Through his leadership and support, and in keeping with its mission to improve health and maximize quality of life through education, research and patient care, MUSC chose to develop a half-acre plot as an educational garden with the goal of creating opportunities for S.C. residents to learn how to eat for health.

From the very beginning, the project was distinctly collaborative. The original committee was made up of a large and diverse group of employees, students and community members.

However, the team eventually expanded to a core multidisciplinary team, including representatives from grounds, nutrition services, sustainability and marketing, among others. Thus, the team all devised a plan to make the farm a living classroom, open to virtually everyone.

How do you serve the lowcountry?

Johnson: The MUSC Urban Farm is designed to be a living classroom where students, faculty, staff and the community come together to explore the connection between food and health through handson learning about the many varieties of vegetables, fruit and herbs grown in South Carolina. The farm hosts workshops, seminars, volunteer workdays, and tours.

Programs are open to MUSC faculty, staff and students, as well as to patients, visitors and the community. They provide a unique opportunity to learn about sustainable urban agriculture. Participants are educated on the value of incorporating vegetables into their diets through cooking and nutrition lessons and experience opportunities for collaborative engagement.

MUSC Urban Farm is actively engaged in hosting and participating in special events, which include educational and interactive sessions, cooking demonstrations, and guest speakers.

MUSC chefs and registered dietitians team up to provide instruction on how to prepare produce that is healthy and delicious. The farm has also participated in many off-campus community events, including a community health day, city farmers market events, health fairs, Earth Day and green fair events. The focus is always on providing interactive learning opportunities while raising awareness about this free community resource.

What have been some of the greatest successes of your organization?

Johnson: When the project was approved, it was emphasized to the team that it has a five- to 10-year lifespan before the space will be utilized for a new building, so the fact that we are celebrating our fifth-year anniversary this year with continued support from our leadership is a testament to our success. I think what is most significant is the diversity of participants that have engaged in the project. School groups, church organizations, and youth groups, like Girl Scouts, have taken advantage of our offerings, as well as a wide array of businesses and nonprofit organizations.

At MUSC’s Urban Farm, we have not only embraced the importance of holistic health, but we have chosen to demonstrate it, making it a priority and a part of our culture.

Jennifer Iamele Savage is a transitional life coach and a secondary Montessori educator. Passionate about raising consciousness, Savage uses these as vehicles to help people find their voice and empower them to utilize their resources. Connect with her at InspirationAndBliss.com.

What volunteer opportunities are available?

Johnson: The backbone of the Urban Farm is our volunteers. Volunteers from every corner of Charleston come to the natural awakenings

March 2017

17

7 Important Ways Working with a Life Coach Improves Emotional Health

by Diana Deaver

W

orking with a life coach is a highly personal experience that involves quality one-on-one time and deep meaningful inquiry. Most people who choose a life coach are not only looking for someone to partner with to relieve and heal emotional pain but also someone who can teach them how to do that for themselves. It’s a more intimate process than reading a book or doing an online course, and that’s why, when clients and coaches are matched well, profound life changes take place organically.

So, who goes to a life coach?

It’s often people who seek a deeper understanding of their situation and challenges—individuals who have perhaps already tried a method or two on their own and were left with gaps still unaddressed. Through one-on-one life coaching such persons can access a more individualized approach to their emotional healing and, together with their coach, can co-create a process that is both effective and feels genuine.

Such a program is often customized with the guidance of the client during the coaching sessions and built to respect and consider that individual’s ways of thinking and feeling, as well as allow the appropriate amount of time for progress to take place.

Contrary to popular belief, seeing a coach is not about being given advice; it’s about learning to give oneself advice that can be trusted. The best coaches combine their powerful self-inquiry tools with their clients’ personal life experiences to build new nurturing patterns, release sabotaging behaviors, and implement long-term fulfilling strategies. At first, the coach will act as an accountability partner for the ongoing emotional work, but in time, the coach will be needed less frequently as the client will become continually more confident from within.

18

NA Lowcountry Edition

Here are seven of the most common ways working with a life coach impacts individuals: 1. Improved self-acceptance and self-compassion. Most people tend to put a lot of pressure and expectations on themselves. Life coaching cultivates a gentler attitude toward the aspects of being a less-than-perfect human being while finding ways to facilitate progress.

2. Expanded perspective. Advice from a friend or family member tends to offer information filtered through personal attachment. Coaches are trained to remain uninvolved and can more effectively expand their client’s perspective. Soliciting a second opinion about an important aspect of life from a professional coach can offer the reassurance needed or a brand new way of seeing the situation that wouldn’t have been otherwise considered.

3. Identification and best use of strengths and weaknesses. Few people are aware of all the intricate aspects of their own personalities and character. Self-assessment skills built in life-coaching sessions allow individuals to discover versions of themselves they are not yet aware of—it’s like running a personal audit.

4. Awareness of emotional needs and the support necessary to have them met. Just like most buildings require scaffolding during a renovation, most people also need a structured coach for the additional support necessary as they go about creating progress in their emotional lives.

Some of the most successful people in leadership and business work with coaches on a regular basis to help fine-tune and support them through their growth.

NALowcountry.com

5. Reduction of self-sabotaging behaviors. Emotional health achieved through life coaching helps people move from “emotions are hell” toward “emotions are supportive.” Coaches combine clients’ self-awareness with implementation strategies to create healthy new habits.

6. Reduced anxiety and depression.

Many life coaches act as partners in healing, assisting clients to minimize stress and design personalized and comprehensive stress-management programs.

7. Healthier relationship development. Having clear boundaries with others, and raising emotional resilience and emotional intelligence are important benefits of working with a life coach.

Life coaching enables regular people to become their own built-in, takealong inner therapist—whom they can access wherever they are and no matter what is happening. This offers lifelong benefits of self-reliance and selfempowerment.

Diana Deaver is a life coach, speaker and visual artist. Her coaching process focuses on deep personal exploration, understanding and compassion. Her formative years in a post-communist developing country gave her a personal understanding of the effects that abuse, fear, shame and hunger can have on human dignity. Having personally explored the power of emotional healing, Deaver uses her unique perspective to offer clients the same opportunity for emotional wellbeing. See her listing, page 39.

businessspotlight

EarthFriendly Landscapes

On the Cutting Edge of Innovations in Zero-Emissions Landscaping

J

ustin Gough started EarthFriendly Landscapes as an extension of his commitment to reduce emissions, pollution and consumption of fossil fuels. By promoting and educating the public about eco-friendly landscaping practices, the company is hoping to make this approach the norm in our community. It serves the Charleston area by providing a zero-emissions service comparable in price to traditional landscape companies, reducing our city’s carbon footprint through responsible and sustainable practices, and changing the way people think about professional lawn maintenance.

rich, flavorful produce families can grow and eat year round.

As more and more companies tout green products and services, it is important to have a healthy dose of skepticism, especially for those consumers who may fall prey to “greenwashing.” Gough says he can prove that his company’s practices are eco-friendly and not a marketing ploy. “When people truly understand the impact that traditional landscaping has on the environment, I think they’ll want to choose the more responsible alternative.”

For more information, call 843-530-0933 or email Justin@ EarthFriendlySC.com, or visit EarthFriendlySC.com. See ad, page 3.

The Problem: Facts • Traditional landscaping alone causes 6 to 11 percent of the country’s pollution.

• Every year, an estimated 17 million gallons of gas are spilled when people refuel mowers and other lawn equipment— more than the destructive 1989 Valdez oil spill.

• Weed-eaters, blowers and hedge trimmers release 25 to 30 percent of their oil and gas unburned into the air, contributing to low-level air pollution and possible lung cancer.

The Solution Zero-emissions lawn maintenance reduces pollution of our air, soil and water by removing carbon dioxide and unburned hydrocarbons. Fuel spills are eliminated altogether.

Organic fertilizers and pesticides are safe to use around children and pets. Use of these treatments results in healthier waterways and bodies of water in and around our city. In addition, turf and plants will benefit from healthier soils.

Collecting rainwater for gardening and landscaping reduces demand on the city’s water supply and helps maintain our water tables. Natural rainwater is far better than chlorinated city water for plants and turf. Installing native-grown plants instead of exotics also helps conserve water. Native species are drought-tolerant and less susceptible to infestations and disease.

Installation of greenhouses and hydroponic systems allow people to create controlled environments using recycled water. Harmful, polluting fertilizers and pesticides are unnecessary with these systems. The result? The healthiest, nutrientnatural awakenings

March 2017

19

Fortunately, food allergies that trigger such a dramatic, fast, immune response are fairly rare, particularly in adults.

Pressmaster/Shutterstock.com

Some More Common Issues

“Most of what we’re seeing today is an uptick in food sensitivities and intolerances, terms that are often used interchangeably to describe foods that are not digested well and can challenge the immune system,” says Solana Beach, California, nutrition and fitness expert JJ Virgin, author of The Virgin Diet.

Newark, Delaware, medical doctor and allergist Junfang Jiao, Ph.D., attests to increased levels of testing for food allergies and sensitivities in recent years. “I can’t say there are more allergies or sensitivities, but more doctors are aware of the wide-ranging symptoms and more people are getting referred for testing,” he reports.

Many experts agree on at least one underlying cause behind the trend—a widely studied condition called leaky

FEARLESS EATING How to Move Past Food Sensitivities

by Kathleen Barnes

C

omplaints of digestive upsets, brain fog, headaches, relentless food cravings and unrelieved stress appear to be at epidemic levels these days.

“These symptoms may be part of newfound awareness of the wideranging and seemingly unrelated health problems caused by food sensitivities and intolerances, which are different from food allergies,” explains microbiologist Kiran Krishnan, from Chicago.

Food Allergies

Food allergies seem to be plaguing America’s children now more than in the past. We know that peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, once standard lunchbox fare, have become a no-no.

They’re often outlawed by schools to protect the students that experience extreme peanut allergies.

20

NA Lowcountry Edition

The symptoms of food allergies in adults and children, often including hives, rashes and itching, can range from being annoying to life threatening.

For extremely sensitive people, the tiniest fragment of a peanut or a bee sting, exposure to latex gloves or certain medications like penicillin can cause such a sudden strong allergic reaction that it results in anaphylaxis, which makes breathing passages swell shut. If untreated, such extreme allergies can even prove fatal, which is why people with severe allergies carry the antidote epinephrine (adrenaline) with them.

Food allergies are diagnosed by blood and/or skin testing under the supervision of a medical professional, usually a doctor of medicine, osteopathy or naturopathy. Effective treatment, which must be customized to the individual, typically entails avoidance of allergy triggers.

NALowcountry.com

gut, characterized by intestinal permeability. Microscopic pinholes in an unhealthy small intestine can allow undigested nutrients to pass through intestinal walls, triggering mild immune responses, inflammation and, potentially, the onset of some diseases.

Theories of what causes leaky gut are diverse and sometimes contradictory but experts recommend consulting a medical professional if one suffers from food sensitivities. Each individual is unique, so there is no “blanket solution” for everyone.

Dysbiosis: Leaky gut is often caused by an imbalance in “good” and “bad” intestinal bacteria, sometimes called dysbiosis, says Krishnan. It can be brought on by the use of antibiotics, antibiotic residues in meats and dairy products or a diet high in sugar and processed foods.

Most interesting, he believes, is the discovery that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Monsanto’s weed killer

Roundup used on genetically modified (GMO) corn and soy crops, contributes to dysbiosis, as verified by Massachusetts Institute of Technology scientists in a study published in Interdisciplinary Toxicology. They concluded with a plea to world governments to reconsider policies regarding the safety of glyphosate residues in foods.

GMOs: While this issue has been less widely analyzed, a 1996 study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that the Bacillus thuringiensis toxin added to Monsanto’s GMO corn crops to kill pests is not destroyed during human digestion. Danish researchers at the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University suggested it may damage cells of the intestinal lining.

Gluten: “Gluten causes leaky gut,” says Port Jefferson, New York, naturopathic doctor Doni Wilson, author of The Stress Remedy, voicing one side of the controversy based on her review of scientific literature. She’s concluded, “Whether you are sensitive to it or not, gluten increases the production of zonulin, which can result in damage to intestinal walls and cause the cells on the outside of the intestines to set off an immune response to anything that passes through. In this condition, what we’re eating—cheese, milk, eggs, corn, soy—is leaking through the gut lining, triggering an immune response and potentially creating multiple food sensitivities.”

Wilson also notes that in her clinical experience, only about half of her patients with gluten sensitivities complain of digestive issues. “I’ve found that gluten causes the immune cells on the outside of the small intestine to affect the nervous system, causing headaches, anxiety, depression and insomnia,” she says. Her findings are backed by research from the Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Celiac Research and Italy’s University of Catania. The same researchers confirm that non-celiac gluten sensitivity or intolerance can also foster depression; a University of Cincinnati study published in the journal Headache links gluten and headaches.

Other proteins in wheat can be problematic, advises Fiona McCulloch, a Toronto doctor of naturopathy, citing a study presented at the annual European

Reiki Healing Classes Learn the ancient healing art of Usui Reiki, a gentle and complementary energy modality.

April 8 : Reiki Introduction and Reiki I, $135 April 22 : Reiki II, $235 TTC is a state-approved CEU provider of these courses.

www.tridenttech.edu/ce • 843.574.6152

Liverani Life Coaching 440-476-6928

Info@LiveraniLifeCoaching.com

LiveraniLifeCoaching.com Call or Email for Free Initial Consultation

Steve Liverani, BCC Board Certified Life Coach Reach out today to take the fiRst step.

readersnapshot Who’s a Natural Awakenings Reader?

Are you a loyal Natural Awakenings reader?

Would you like to share your story with the Charleston area?

Email us to be considered for our reader snapshot page.

This is not intended to promote a business.

We are happy to sell you an ad for that!

Email: PublisherNALowcountry@gmail.com

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

Enjoy 80 acres of quiet beauty.

Spirit Quest, March 10-12 Spa for the Soul, March 14-16 Other Modes of Understanding: Poetry, March 17-19 Awakening the Soul Within: Playing the Native Flute, March 21 & 22 Basketry: Weaving Balance & Beauty, March 26-29 Icon Painting as Prayer, April 1-8 The Paschal Mystery of Our Time: Easter Triduum Retreat, April 13-16 Register by calling 843-382-9777 l www.SpringbankRetreat.org

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

natural awakenings

March 2017

21

As a gluten tolerance test, substitute an amount of non-gluten carbohydrates for the same amount of gluten-containing products.

For example, instead of two pieces of bread, substitute three-quarters of a cup of brown rice—a rough equivalent in carbohydrate content. A positive difference in hunger, cravings and energy levels when gluten is eliminated indicates a condition of gluten intolerance. ~Fiona McCulloch Gastroenterology Conference, in Vienna, last October. The report showed that a family of proteins called amylase trypsin inhibitors can lead to the development of inflammation in tissues beyond the gut, including the lymph nodes, kidneys, spleen and brain.

Glyphosate residues can be a factor in gluten intolerance. Although wheat crops produced in the U.S. are not yet genetically modified, many non-organic wheat crops are sprayed with glyphosate to promote rapid drying,

according to the Environmental Working Group.

Inadequate digestive enzymes: Lactose intolerance is the most common result of missing digestive enzymes like lactase, according to the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, Minnesota.

Avoiding milk products may relieve digestive distress for some.

Eliminate Items, Then Challenge

Most experts believe the easiest way to deal with food sensitivities is to stop eating the food in question. The so-called “elimination and challenge” diet, which has been in use for decades, is effective, free and addresses the foods responsible for common food intolerances, says Virgin.

Simply avoid the food of concern completely for at least three weeks, then eat a small amount of it and catalog the results. For some people, it may only take a couple of hours for symptoms to return after eating a piece of bread, cup of milk, an egg or bit of tofu.

Virgin’s seven-food challenge is a bit more rigorous, but improves feelings of general well-being so readily that many people don’t even want to bring back the eliminated foods because they feel so much better, she says. Her threeweek diet completely eliminates the most common food sensitivity triggers: gluten-containing foods (largely wheat), dairy, eggs, soy, corn, peanuts, sugar and artificial sweeteners.

“When I say eliminate these foods 100 percent, I mean it,” cautions Virgin.

“You need to give your immune system at least that much time to cool off.” She

adds, “You can do anything such as this for just three weeks.”

Virgin also recommends the elimination diet for weight loss because it helps overcome food cravings triggered by the immune system response and leptin resistance, leveraging the hormone that turns off the body’s hunger signals, a finding confirmed by independent studies performed by Sweden’s Lund University and Italy’s University of Palermo. She’s also documented other positive effects through her own research and experience with participants in her programs, including improvements in energy, focus, joint pain, skin clarity and bloating, all in the designated short time frames.

Other Approaches

People with food sensitivities may be able to tolerate occasional indulgences in their trigger foods once they’ve healed their digestive systems, notes Krishnan.

Probiotics can help, especially those encapsulated in spores so they can pass through the barrage of stomach acid and reach the small intestine where they are most needed.

Krishnan’s research, to be published this spring, showed that half of otherwise healthy young people suffering from leaky gut had a dramatic reduction of symptoms by taking a spore-forming probiotic Bacillus indicus product for 30 days.

After the healing period, sensitive people may be able to eat small amounts of certain foods with the assistance of dietary aids and supplements, adds McCulloch.

Get dirty: Johns Hopkins Univer-

April marks one year for me as your publisher!

To celebrate, I am offering the traditional one year anniversary gift of PAPER! More paper for less money when you advertise that is...

• Sign up for six months and get a full page ad for the price of half of a page, or get half of a page for the price of a quarter page ad for your first month.

• Sign up for twelve months and you get double the size for the money for three months!

Time is running out! Contact 843-821-7404 or email PublisherNALowcountry@gmail.com

by March 10 to be in the special April anniversary issue! Offer expires April 30.

22

NA Lowcountry Edition

NALowcountry.com

Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com

sity research has shown that kids raised in an excessively hygienic environment experience much higher rates of allergies and sensitivities. University of Wisconsin researchers found that youths growing up in households that are less than obsessively sanitary among four or five other people and dogs will strengthen and challenge their immune systems as they mature. Adults need to challenge their immune systems, too, says Krishnan.

Eat organic and fermented foods: A widely varied diet helps spread out the immune system challenges of trigger foods. Organic foods don’t contain glyphosate and other potentially harmful chemicals; fermented foods contain digestive enzymes.

Eat prebiotics: Raw onions, garlic, leeks and asparagus are prebiotics.

They help feed probiotic bacteria and improve gut health.

Block sensitivity triggers: Many people with lactose intolerance are able to consume dairy products if they use lactase, the enzyme that helps digest lactose. Similarly, some people with gluten intolerance find they can eat moderate amounts of wheat products with protein supplements like lectin, carb blockers and digestive enzymes that help break down the gluten molecules, according to Virgin.

Supplements that might help: Glucomannan (konjac or elephant yam fiber) contributes to a feeling of fullness and stabilizes blood sugar, says McCulloch. She also recommends the amino acid L-glutamine and digestive enzymes to assist in gut healing.

Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

Food Intolerances Self-Questionnaire

by JJ Virgin Answer each question with never (0), seldom (1), sometimes (2) or often (3).

1. I need a cup of coffee or another caffeinated pick-me-up to jumpstart the middle of my morning or afternoon. _____ 2. I crave baked goods, pasta and other high-sugar impact foods. _____ 3. I have difficulty falling asleep or I awake during the night feeling anxious and struggle to get back to sleep. _____ 4. My bowel movements occur infrequently (less than one a day), which can sometimes be painful and involve straining. _____ 5. My mood can change swiftly and I take out my crankiness and irritation on coworkers and family members. _____ 6. I want to lay my head down on my desk mid-morning or afternoon because I have little motivation to remain productive. _____ 7. During meetings or conversations I zone out and struggle to concentrate for long periods of time on my work. _____ 8. After eating a big meal, I’m hungry and craving more of what I ate several hours later. _____ 9. Doing routine and important tasks takes all the energy and initiative I have. _____ 10. Even as an adult, I struggle with acne, rashes or blotchy skin, even though I use expensive skin cream. _____ 11. I head to the bathroom or step outside after a meal because of gassiness, bloating or other uncomfortable gut issues. _____ 12. The smell of a scented candle, perfume and detergent bothers me. _____ 13. Walking or moving around can create cramping, achiness or joint pain. _____ 14. I develop headaches that prevent me from enjoying the moment and leave me scrambling for a pain reliever. _____ 15. Even though I don’t have other cold/flu symptoms, I suffer from a scratchy throat or sinus trouble. _____ 6. I eat all the right foods in moderation, exercise religiously, and yet struggle 1 intensely to lose every pound. _____ Total Score: ______

What Scores Mean

18 or above – You most likely struggle with food intolerances that create many unpleasant symptoms and stall fat loss. By removing the seven target foods for just three weeks, you’ll see these symptoms disappear and the scales will start moving again.

10 to 17 – You display some of the symptoms that food intolerances can trigger.

You would greatly benefit from eliminating target foods to lose symptoms and those last few pounds.

Below 10 – While you suffer few of the symptoms brought about by food intolerances, you could still benefit from the same regimen. Even the healthiest person can take their game up a notch and ditch those last few stubborn pounds.

Source: The Virgin Diet, by JJ Virgin natural awakenings

March 2017

23

naturalpet

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ITCHY PETS

Gentle Ways to Calm Allergies Natural Awakenings Want to meet other like-minded singles in a fun and easy going atmosphere?

Plans are underway to hold a “speed dating” event in late April or early May. Details coming in next month’s issue and online at NALowcountry.com and Facebook.com/NALowcountry.

Email us at PublisherNALowcountry@ gmail.com to be added to the mailing list for more information!

24

NA Lowcountry Edition

R

ather than routinely giving drugs to dogs and cats to relieve dry, itchy, skin or food allergies, consider more gentle natural alternatives. As with people, knowing what an animal is allergic to is key to finding the right remedy and preventing future outbreaks.

With dogs, about 20 percent of itching and scratching can be attributed to food ingredients.

Symptoms can show up as early as 5 months or as late as 12 years old, often combined with inhalant or contact allergies. Chronic ear infections are often traced to food allergies.

“If a pet is suffering mightily, see your veterinarian for shots or pills for immediate relief. Then ask the vet to allergy test for the specific problem,” advises Veterinarian Laurie Dohmen, owner of Purple Moon Herbs and Studies, in Hartly, Delaware. “This isn’t something you can do yourself. I’ve seen pet owners use what worked for a friend’s dog and make their own pets sicker, despite research and good intentions. What works for one pet won’t necessarily work for another.”

While food elimination testing works, it’s a long process that must be done with precision. “If your pet

NALowcountry.com

even just nibbles the eliminated food, you have to start all over again,” says Dohmen. Whether commercially prepared or home cooked, the number of ingredients can substantially extend a test period. Each item must be completely avoided for about six weeks for an accurate assessment.

Environmental allergies, which encompass everything unrelated to food, range from common grasses to inhaled pollutants. New carpets or rugs, cleaning supplies, a neighbor’s pesticides, dust and pollen are among the culprits that can cause an allergic reaction. Common symptoms are itchy ears or skin, ear infections, sneezing, runny eyes, scratching, vomiting or diarrhea.

Veterinarian Judy Morgan, owner of Naturally Healthy Pets, in Clayton, New Jersey, also uses herbs in her practice to alleviate food and environmental allergy symptoms. “They can be tinctures or poultices; one herb or a blended mixture. Some are applied externally, some internally.” Giving the proper dosage for the size of the pet is vital.

She particularly likes calendula for hot spots, despite its

pterwort/Shutterstock.com

Singles Over 40!

Susan Schmitz/Shutterstock.com

by Sandra Murphy

system healthy. Parsley works well for dry, itchy, skin caused by a blood deficiency, or imbalance.

“Parsley brings a protein, as well as several vitamins, to the party,” notes Kimberly Gauthier, a dog nutrition blogger in Marysville, Washington.

“It’s a natural anti-inflammatory and also great if your dog’s breath needs a freshness boost.” She suggests rosemary and thyme as ingredients in an antibacterial, antifungal salve; she mixes these essential oils with extra virgin coconut oil and beeswax to create paw balm.

Morgan reminds us that essential oils can be harmful, even life-threatening, for cats. “If Kitty has itchy skin, lavender tea can be used as a rinse on cooperative cats,” she suggests. “For a

less cooperative feline, chamomile tea as a drink or as leaves mixed into the food soothes itches.”

Dohmen cautions, “Herbs and other homeopathic remedies or flower essences are medicine and should be given as a prescription by a qualified veterinarian.”

Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@ mindspring.com.

Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock.com

odor, because it’s antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral, followed by witch hazel to dry them, and then coconut oil or aloe to soothe and soften affected skin— plus Echinacea to boost the immune system. She uses ginger or peppermint to counteract nausea.

“Many people think an allergic pet should be switched to a lamb and rice diet. In some cases, that makes dry, itchy, skin worse,” she says. “That’s why it’s important to know what they are allergic to before trying out new foods or herbal remedies. Find a holistic vet to work with.”

Morgan often prescribes a mixture of herbs for the best results. “I like licorice because it works like a steroid without the side effects. Probiotics help keep gut bacteria and the immune

We use a Mercury safe removal protocol when replacing mercury fillings in order to ensure your comfort and safety. Visit our website to review our mercury removal protocol.

julie obenchain, dds

843-884-0701

Call To Set Up A Free Consultation Accepting New Patients Emergency Appointments Always Available

BPA Free Night Guards BPA Free & bis-GMA Free Dental Fillings

A FREE Gift for Natural Awakenings Readers

Get your MindPT video video session sessiontitled entitled “NATURAL AWAKENINGS” as our FREE GIFT.

eat well

924 Tall Pine Road, Mt. Pleasant

MindPT is a Simple & Easy-To-Use app available to use on your phone or PC. Simply RELAX & WATCH a series of scientifically selected images and positive statements with sound or music.

Your FREE Gift

It’s easy to

PleasantSmilesCFD.com

On your phone: 1. Download the MindPT APP 2. Register 3. Enter this referral code: 4. View your FREE Session & BONUS, over & over

NATC1

Watch for as little as 3 minutes a day & produce sustained effects for 6-8 hours.

MindPT is based on current scientific

research in positive psychology and neuroscience. Quickly shift your brain from a ‘negative’, ‘neutral’, or ‘stressed’ state to a POSITIVE state.

On your computer:

1. Enter this URL into your browser MindPT.com/NATURALAWAKENINGSFreeGift?source= MindPT.com/NATURALAWAKENINGSFreeGift?source=4835 2. Go To Page 3. Register 4. View your FREE Session & BONUS, over & over

Prime Your Mind to Feel Good, Live Simply, Laugh More…

natural awakenings

March 2017

25

healingways

Holistic Eye Care Taking the Whole Body into Account

by Linda Sechrist

T 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

How glorious a

greeting the sun gives the mountains. ~John Muir

26

NA Lowcountry Edition

he “old wives’ tale” about eating carrots for healthy vision wasn’t wrong, but fell far short of a holistic approach to eye health. Today’s holistically trained healthcare providers and ophthalmologists believe that properly maintaining the marvelous phenomenon of eyesight requires taking into consideration genetics, diet, toxin exposures, life environments and our belief systems.

“The body does not work as a series of parts in isolation, but as a dynamically integrated living system,” says Marc Grossman, a doctor of optometry, licensed acupuncture physician and co-founder of Natural Eye Health, in New Paltz, New York. “The reductionist method of referring each symptom to the domain of a particular specialist, isolated from the whole person, is slowly being replaced with a complementary view of health care that may include acupuncture and other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

We are beginning to look at each person as an integrated being.”

Progressive health providers now consider dietary preferences, general exercise regimens, environmental factors and physical, emotional and mental issues, as well as an individual’s particular symptoms, in determining treatment strategies. “To improve vision, the condition of the whole person needs to be addressed,” says Grossman, whose books include Natural Eye Care: Your Guide to Healthy Vision.

Board-Certified Ophthalmologist and Homeopathic Doctor Edward

NALowcountry.com

Kondrot’s practice at Healing The Eye & Wellness Center, which he founded in Zephyrhills, Florida, embraces traditional and alternative therapies. He uses microcurrent, ozone therapy and U.S. Food and Drug Administrationapproved stem cells from a newborn’s umbilical cord in treating serious eye disease.

Kondrot, the author of 10 Essentials to Save Your Sight, systemically understands the eyes as windows to overall health. For instance, his perspective is founded on the fact that a balanced diet is one of the best preventive measures for maintaining eye health. Systemic disorders such as high blood pressure, diabetes, stress-related effects and nutritional deficiencies are easily determined under the scrutiny of his holistic biomicroscope.

According to science published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, chiropractic spinal manipulation may also contribute to normal vision; in one case study, 20 treatment sessions helped an individual recover the function of optic nerves and normal vision. It’s generally accepted that chiropractic adjustment realigning the spinal column allows the nervous system to function properly, reduces tension and frees up the body to better transport blood to locations such as the eyes. Additionally, the second vertebra below the skull contains nerves that affect the eyes, optic nerves, auditory nerves and sinuses.

Common eye conditions generally develop so slowly that they may not

Tuzemka/Shutterstock.com

ConneCtions that nourish Your soul

present noticeable symptoms until deterioration has become severe. “Many factors can affect our eyesight, including other health problems. Having a family member with eye disease may mean you’re genetically prone to having that condition as well, but living a healthy lifestyle may prevent the gene from being activated,” advises Kondrot.

Viewing the condition of the eyes as a reflection of whole body health means that lifestyle and diet choices play major roles. The Vision Diet and supplement program recommended in Grossman’s Natural Eye Care has been shown to reduce the intraocular pressure in the eyes of study participants by five to seven millimeters, which generally equates to 10 to 15 percent. In general, a diet high in beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and sulfur-bearing amino acids can be helpful. Foods containing such nutrients include garlic, onions, beans, spinach, celery, turnips, yellow and orange vegetables, green leafy vegetables, seaweed, apples, oranges and tomatoes.

Other dietary and lifestyle options recommended by Grossman are daily drinking one pint of juice made from mostly green vegetables and drinking eight to 10 glasses of purified water to keep eyes hydrated. Managing stress and doing palming and other eye exercises, such as those found at Tinyurl.com/ComputerEyeStrainExercises, as well as daily aerobic exercise for at least 20 minutes, are also beneficial.

Additionally, Kondrot’s use of multimodal protocols such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, homeopathy, and detoxification can be applied to reverse visual loss.

Kondrot advises that avoiding foods that trigger allergic reactions is important. “A study of 113 patients with chronic simple glaucoma showed an immediate increase in pressure in the fluid inside the eye when they were exposed to foods to which they were allergic. Take up meditation, yoga, tai chi or any other practice that helps you manage stress and relax,” he advises. “Some consider glaucoma a stress-related condition.”

The best strategy for healthy eyes is to have regular eye examinations. Early detection and prompt treatment can prevent significant vision loss.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings.

Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.

Holistic/ Preventive Dentist

Call for appointment: 843-881-1418 Mt Pleasant 843-293-6700 Myrtle Beach

James Sexton DMD MAGD

• Anti-ageing dentistry • Biocompatible materials • Safe removal of mercury fillings since 1975 following IAOMT protocol • Master Academy of General Dentistry • Associate Fellow American Academy of Implant Dentistry

CHarleston HolistiC Center, llC

Are you or •• PTSD Phobias a loved one •• Anxiety Anger or Anger Triggers experiencing? • Traumatic Events Comprehensive treatment for all types of Psychological Traumas is available using EMDR, EFT, Hypnosis, and a complete analysis and results-oriented wellness approach www.CharlestonHolisticCenter.com

Call Today: 843-225-2024 15% off a Smoking Sessation

when you mention this ad.

info@CharlestonHolisticCenter.com www.CharlestonHolisticCenter.com 2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg #8, Charleston

Take Care of Yourself

Now more than ever it's time to take care of ourselves. Using non toxic color and organic products is one of those ways!

Charleston’s Organic Hair Care EXPERT

Barbara Brant-Williams

natural awakenings

March 2017

27

Thumbs-Up on Fats

Craevschii Family/Shutterstock.com

consciouseating

Good Fat Doesn’t Make Us Fat

by Judith Fertig

I

n an era of too much information, the role of fats in our diet has been a victim of not enough information.

Today’s turnaround in nutritional thinking acknowledges natural fats as being vital to heart health and weight loss.

Heart Health Benefit

A recent metastudy in the Annals of Internal Medicine, a journal of the American College of Physicians, concluded that saturated fat does not appear to increase heart disease risk, overturning almost 60 years of accepted medical thought. The researchers analyzed data from 76 studies involving more than 600,000 people and found that those that ate the most saturated, or “bad”, fat did not show a higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared with those that ate the least. Note that processed trans fats remain a villain, still deemed a risk to heart health per the metastudy.

The misleading information began in the 1950s, when Physiologist Ancel Keys, Ph.D., discovered a correlation between diets high in saturated fats and higher cholesterol levels. Soon, the lowfat diet was born.

In 2000, further research introduced the concepts of good and bad fats. More 28

NA Lowcountry Edition

recent analysis confirmed this finding with the refinement that saturated fats increase both types of cholesterol. However, the latest research from the journal BMJ shows that saturated fat does not increase the number of LDL, or “bad”, particles, a predictor of cardiovascular disease. Instead, it makes existing LDL particles larger, a fairly benign situation in regard to such disease.

Weight Loss Benefit

Fat doesn’t even make you fat, claims Mark Hyman, a well-known medical doctor in Lenox, Massachusetts, and author of Eat Fat, Get Thin: Why the Fat We Eat Is the Key to Sustained Weight Loss and Vibrant Health. “The theory that all calories have the same impact on your weight and metabolism remains one of the most persistent nutrition myths,” says this practitioner of functional medicine who points out that we’ve been sidetracked by wrong thinking.

“Eating fat can make you lean.

Healthy cell walls made from highquality fats are better able to metabolize insulin, which keeps blood sugar better regulated. Without proper blood sugar control, the body socks away fat for a rainy day. The right fats also in-

NALowcountry.com

crease fat burning, diminish hunger and reduce fat storage,” he notes.

Whole30, a 30-day diet revolving around clean eating, also emphasizes healthy fats. Devised in 2009 by Dallas Hartwig, a functional medicine practitioner and certified sports nutritionist, and Melissa Hartwig, a certified sports nutritionist, the program aims to reduce inflammation, detoxify the body and reset metabolism. The Salt Lake City, Utah, authors of the New York Times bestselling The Whole30 recommend healthy fats to keep us full and rev up metabolism. Recommended healthy fats include coconut milk and oil, avocados, olive oil, organic ghee (clarified butter) and raw nuts.

Josh Axe, a natural medicine practitioner and clinical nutritionist in Nashville, Tennessee, recommends the healthy fats contained in avocados, organic butter and ghee from grass-fed cows and goats, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, and other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds and flax seeds.

“Butter’s experiencing a comeback as a healthy fat as its benefits become more widely known,” says Axe. “The omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in butter help the brain function properly and improve skin health.” Ghee, an ancient Indian version of butter, is lactose- and casein-free, while being loaded with fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E, says Axe. These vitamins are best absorbed by the body when they’re in a fat substance and then stored in the gastrointestinal tract, keeping metabolism and digestion on track, he notes.

Ghee’s high level of vitamin K2, best known as a natural blood coagulator, “also helps strengthen bones, while the fatty acids found in it improve digestion and reduce inflammation.”

Healthy Levels of Fat

“If you’re active, about 40 percent of your calories should come from carbohydrates, another 30 percent from protein and the other 30 percent from fat in general,” says Axe, adding that this has the added benefit of helping prevent arteriosclerosis. “Some people may consume a greater percentage of healthy fats if the goal is to become a fat burner.”

“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss and health,”

Hyman reminds us. “Low-carb, higherfat diets work for most people, but for some, they may not be optimal in the long term.”

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

Prime Sources of Healthy Fats Functional medicine physician Mark Hyman suggests that we include four to five servings of fat in our diets every day. “In the last five years, the scientific evidence has been mounting that high-fat diets outperform low-fat diets for weight loss and for revising every single indication of heart disease risk, including abnormal cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension and inflammation,” he says.

Each amount listed indicates a serving size.

Nuts (a handful of walnuts, almonds, macadamia nuts or cashews) Seeds (a handful of pumpkin, sunflower of flaxseed) Most plant-based liquid oils (one tablespoon of olive, safflower, sesame, avocado, macadamia, grape seed or walnut oil) Fatty fish (4 ounces of salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, tuna or trout) Avocado (one-half to one avocado)

S

ome area farmers markets are open year round, while others hibernate for the winter. Spring is coming! Many will be rising back up early in April, so we have listed them here for your convenience.

SUNDAY

North Charleston/Park Circle Farmers Market

North Mt Pleasant Farmers Market (at Rusty Rudder)

Felix Davis Community Center, 4800 Park Circle May 4-Oct 26 • 3-7pm Facebook.com/nochasfarmersmarket

3563 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant April 2-Nov • 11am-3pm Facebook.com/north-mt-pleasantfarmers-market-at-the-rusty-rudder

Sullivan’s Island Farmers Market 1921 Ion Ave (in front of Poe Library), Sullivan’s Island April 6-June 29 • 2:30-7pm

Sunday Brunch Farmers Market 1977 Maybank Hwy, James Island (behind the Pour House) Feb 5-Dec 17 • 11am-3pm SundayBrunchFarmersMarket.com

FRIDAY MUSC Farmers Market

TUESDAY

171 Ashley Ave, Charleston Year round • 7am-3:30pm

Mt Pleasant Farmers Market

SATURDAY

645 Coleman Blvd, Mt Pleasant April 4-Sept • 3:30-7pm ComeOnOvermp.com

Charleston Farmers Market 329 Meeting St, Charleston (Marion Square) April 8-Nov 25 • 8am-2pm CharlestonFarmersMarket.com

WEDNESDAY West Ashley Farmers Market Ackerman Park 55 Sycamore Ave, Charleston April 19-Oct 4 • 3-7pm CharlestonFarmersMarket.com/ westashley

James Island Presbyterian Church Farmers Market 1632 Ft Johnson Rd, James Island 9am-6pm most Saturdays JamesIslandPresbyterian.org/ special-services/farmers-market

THURSDAY

Extra virgin coconut oil (one tablespoon)

New Location!

Daniel Island Farmers Market

Organic coconut milk (one-quarter cup)

Refuel Service Station, 860 Island Park Dr, Daniel Island May 4-Aug 31 • 3-6pm Facebook.com/danielislandfarmersmarket

Olives (one-quarter cup) Grass-fed animal butter, clarified butter or ghee (one tablespoon) Aim to eat fats that remain liquid (not solid) at room temperature; it’s a sure sign of heart-healthy, unsaturated fats.

Moncks Corner Farmers Market 418 E Main St, Moncks Corner April 7-Dec 16 • 3-7pm TownOfMoncksCorner.sc.gov

New Location! Johns Island “Homegrown” Sustainable Farmers Market 2024 Academy Rd, Johns Island Year round • 10am-2pm JohnsIslandFarmersMarket.com

Summerville Farmers Market 200 S Main St, Summerville April 8 • 8am-1pm Summervillesc.gov/farmersmarket

Source: Adapted from Eat Fat, Get Thin, by Mark Hyman, M.D. natural awakenings

March 2017

29

Advertise Here

healthykids

and

watch

business

grow

Silencing Cyberbullies

W NO BLE ILA AVA ALL ER AT EET T RIS ERY R A H OC GR RES! STO

How to Defuse Bad Actors

W

Did you know that

Natural Awakenings can be found in locations all throughout the Charleston Metro area including libraries, stores, medical and dental offices?

Look for us at Earth Fare, Food Lion and all Harris Teeter grocery stores. ads@NALowcountry.com 843-821-7404 30

NA Lowcountry Edition

SpeedKingz/Shutterstock.com

your

by April Thompson

hether it’s a damaging rumor posted on Facebook, a humiliating photo shared on Instagram or a threatening text, cyberbullying is increasing among today’s youth. A 2015 Cyberbullying Research Center study of middle school students found that 43 percent had been targeted, while 15 percent admitted to being online bullies. Meanwhile, students, parents and teachers are combating cyber-aggression with initiatives to make the phenomenon socially unacceptable in schools.

Grassroots Action

Tyler Gregory, 23, attended a small, insular high school in rural Ohio where bullying was problematic. As a senior with younger siblings approaching their high school years, he aimed to change the local culture to make bullying uncool.

Gregory decided to make a movie to submit to the NO BULL Challenge, a national organization that provides students a platform to develop and dis-

NALowcountry.com

seminate materials that spark dialogue about such troubling issues. Challenges ranged from teaching himself filmmaking and persuading students to participate to mustering the courage to present the project to his school. He achieved the transformation he sought, beginning with 70 students participating in his production.

“I appealed to classmates by asking, ‘How do you want to be remembered?

Why not choose to be viewed positively, as leaders?’” says Gregory, who later became a spokesperson for NO BULL Challenge. To date, the challenge has received 600 submissions, garnering 23 million impressions through digital and social media, the vehicles of cyberbullies. A recent graduate of Dayton, Ohio’s Wright State University, Gregory has spoken to about 45,000 students in 27 states in school assemblies.

Nancy Willard, director of Embrace Civility in the Digital Age, headquartered in Creswell, Oregon, believes that such initiatives, which shift schools from punitive approaches to making

bullying incompatible with accepted social norms, are the only way to bring lasting change. “We need to cultivate a climate where being hurtful is contrary to a school’s expressed values.

Most young people don’t like to see their peers being hurtful and admire those that stand up to peers and have them make amends,” says Willard. The educator’s website, EmbraceCivility.org, offers free materials with concrete steps for students and teachers to foster positive school environments.

Protecting the Vulnerable

Cyberbullying isn’t limited to attacks on unpopular kids that lack satisfying peer relationships. It’s seven times more likely to occur between current or former friends and romantic partners than between strangers, according to a study led by Diane Felmlee, professor of sociology at Pennsylvania State University. Felmlee’s research further found that non-heterosexual youth are four times as likely as their heterosexual peers to be cyberbullied, while popular kids are also frequently targeted.

Two social dynamics seem to be at work: “One involves individuals that violate social norms, such as LGBTQ youth, and the other revolves around status struggles,” reports Felmlee. “In the latter case, bullies are vying for popularity, recognition and self-esteem. Those with higher social status may be attacked because they’re viewed as competition.”

Cyberbullying’s impact can exceed face-to-face aggression, as offensive remarks can spread far and fast, and live online in perpetuity instead of fading away, observes Felmlee. Gregory adds that it can also affect students’

ability to learn when some skip school to avoid tormentors.

Helpful Responses

Most youths don’t report cyberbullying, feeling embarrassed, afraid the situation will get worse or doubtful of remedial action. “Schools need to step up their response to bullying, make it known that it won’t be tolerated, set clear policies and enforce them,” counsels Gregory. Because most bullied youths don’t speak up, parents need to communicate openly with kids and be aware of their online activities, advises Felmlee.

Willard notes that it’s also important to address the bullies themselves through understanding their motivation, and then persuading them to accept responsibility and take steps to rectify harm. “This should be about reparation, not punishment.” Gregory’s high school film assures bullies that it’s never too late to make amends.

While it can be hard to stand up to bullies, caring peers can easily express support. “Bystanders have the power to change the atmosphere,” agrees Gregory. “Kindly approaching a student being picked on who may feel alone and ashamed goes further than most students realize.”

Those affected by cyberbullying also can cut off their aggressors, suggests Gregory. “The ‘block’ button is powerful. Cyberbullies want to see a reaction. Blocking them from social media exchanges or texting takes away their power.”

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

Muting Meanness Here are some tips to help keep digital spaces safe and civil. * Think twice before posting a photo or comment that could be taken out of context and misappropriated. * Report bad behavior to an adult that can help figure out the right course of action. * Don’t portray youth as victims, which can perpetuate the idea they are weak and vulnerable targets. * Save cyber evidence to help officials take appropriate action.

Some schools now have online reporting systems that allow students to anonymously submit screenshots from social media. * Don’t retaliate. It likely will only aggravate unwanted behavior and drag everyone down to the cyberbully’s level of consciousness. * Keep watch. Apps like Online Guardian for Families, CyberSynchs and YouDiligence allow parents to monitor children’s exposure on social media via keywords related to bullying.

Resources: EmbraceCivility.org; Cyberbullying.org; Tinyurl.com/Bully PreventionTips; Tinyurl.com/Apps BlockBullies; StopBullying.gov/ cyberbullying.

Want one of your favorite locations to carry Natural Awakenings?

Tell Them!

Then tell them to call us at

843-821-7404 natural awakenings

March 2017

31

wisewords

Dr. Joseph Mercola on

SIMPLE STEPS TO WELL-BEING

by Judith Fertig

D

octor of Osteopathic Medicine Joseph Mercola has practiced as a boardcertified family physician for more than 30 years.

His educational website, Mercola.com, has been the most visited natural health site for the past 12 years, with 12 million unique visitors each month. His three New York Times bestsellers include Effortless Healing.

It is important to get these levels checked, because it is impossible to know without testing.

In your opinion, what is the greatest health risk Americans face today and what can we do about it right now?

With today’s overload of conflicting health information—and the temptation to self-diagnose—how can we accurately assess our status in terms of optimal wellness?

One of the major principles I strongly embrace is to listen to your body and adjust your lifestyle based on the feedback it’s providing you. The seven clinically proven gauges I advise you to assess now and continue to monitor every six months or so are fasting insulin level (normal is less than five micro-international units per milliliter of blood; ideal is less than three); vitamin D level (normal is 40 to 60 nanograms per milliliter); waist-to-hip ratio (ideal for men, 0.8; for women, 0.7); body fat percentage (fitness level for women is 21 to 24 percent; for men, 14 to 17 percent); HDL to total cholesterol ratio (ideally 24 to 30 percent or higher); blood pressure (ideal numbers are 120 over 80 systolic/diastolic without medication); and uric acid level (ideal is three to five milligrams per deciliter).

32

NA Lowcountry Edition

I’m convinced that for the typical American, the most important health step to take is to stop drinking soda, sports drinks, fruit juices or artificially flavored and sweetened waters and replace them with pure water.

Most people are now aware that sodas are laced with processed sugars like high-fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners, but many don’t know that their favorite sport and vitamin drinks contain these sweeteners plus a host of frightening extras, including toxic chemicals like chlorine, fluoride, phthalates, BPA [bisphenol A] and disinfection byproducts.

What role do carbohydrates play?

Carbs are a far dirtier fuel than fat and generate far more reactive oxygen species than fat. Some 70 years of following low-fat diet recommendations has resulted in the vast majority of dieters losing the ability to burn fat as their primary fuel.

One of the most powerful strategies to regain this ability is to start a practice of regular intermittent fasting, restricting your eating window to six to 14 hours a day and fast the rest of the day.

NALowcountry.com

Of course, you will want to replace a high net carb intake, or total carbs minus fiber, with healthy fats such as those in avocados, coconut oil, seeds and nuts.

Avoid industrially processed omega-6 vegetable oils like corn, soy and canola.

Because an indoor, climatecontrolled, sedentary lifestyle may lead to slowly developing chronic disease, what changes do you suggest we make?

Spending time outside with bare feet in contact with the ground even for short periods can yield significant benefits.

It’s even better to do it with the sun shining on your bare skin.

The Earth is an abundant source of free electrons, and when the sun shines on your skin a vital biological circuit forms that helps transfer energy to water throughout the body, which serves as a cellular battery. Albert Einstein won a Nobel Prize for describing this process, called the photoelectric effect.

Reducing the length of time sitting each day and regularly moving is even more important for most of us than getting regular exercise. A good rule of thumb is to stand up every 15 minutes or so.

What can we do better to maintain optimal health?

Two-thirds of Americans are overweight. The problems with carrying excess weight are more than aesthetic.

At the root of obesity is mitochondrial metabolic dysfunction. Metabolic disorders go hand-in-hand with many of the chronic diseases plaguing Americans in record numbers—including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, dementia and cancer—according to numerous studies such as research by the Centers for Disease Control and the Center for the Study of Chronic Metabolic and Rare Diseases, at George Mason University.

The most potent strategy to address such metabolic dysfunction is to make a strong commitment to reaching and maintaining a personally healthy level of body fat.

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

Returning to Joy in Turbulent Times

by Andrew Harvey and Carolyn Baker

N

othing is more important for the future of humanity than a global return to joy. At a moment of profound sadness regarding the state of the world, Andrew Harvey was given a message in a dream that changed his life. A golden banner was unfurled in a sunlit sky above, and on that banner were written the following words: Joy is the power. Immediately he understood, viscerally and cellularly, that the tremendous challenges we face at this time cannot be met by grief and despair alone. What is needed is to find the way back to what all spiritual traditions know as the essence of reality—the simple joy of being. That is the indispensable foundation for all meaningful living and truly effective action.

We live in a civilization that has lost the essential truth of reality as it has been known in the mystical and indigenous traditions. In the second decade of the 21st century, civilized humans are madly engaged in what is portrayed to them as a pursuit of happiness, but in most cases, they have little experience of joy as the ultimate nature of reality.

The obvious question that arises from this is: So, what is the difference between happiness and joy? Happiness is circumstantial, a state that as everyone knows, comes and goes. Joy is the ultimate nature of reality and is not conditioned by shifts of fate or the play of emotions.

When asked what is the true sign of a great teacher or an authentically awakened person, His Holiness the Dalai Lama replied, “He or she radiates joy in whatever circumstances arise.” This radiation of joy has nothing to do with our current banal understanding of happiness but has everything to do with a rigorous discipline of seeing through the illusions that govern and distort human behavior—and seeing through even the illusion of death because what is revealed in awakening is the inner divine self that no defeat or even death itself can destroy.

True joy is born from this realization. Reading and thinking deeply about this is just the beginning. What has to be undertaken is the challenging, demanding journey toward knowing this viscerally and beyond any doubt.

We have seen the reality of this awakened condition emanating from the presence of the Dalai Lama, shining in the noble face of Nelson Mandela, vibrant in the witness and grace of Jane Goodall, and radiating in the patience and compassion of hundreds of thousands of nurses, doctors, aid workers, environmental activists—ordinaryextraordinary beings of all kinds who have turned up in often very difficult circumstances to commit themselves to the work of love and justice.

Horrific experiences need not annihilate your opportunities to live in joy.

In fact, in some human beings, it can be the crucible in which a commitment to live in embodied joy is made final.

If you want to live in the joy that the great teachers and servants of humanity have lived, then four things are required: • First, accept at the deepest level possible that ultimate reality is sourced from a boundless joy.

• Second, do the rigorous work of understanding the shadows of the past, and the psychological labor

of clearing the clouds from your essential sun.

• Third, all spiritual traditions call us to the uncompromising and calmly relentless spiritual work of aligning ourselves with the powers of divine light in all circumstances as much as possible.

• Fourth, the greatest joy is only known by those who have not merely tasted divine truth but have committed themselves to the amazing and dangerous task of embodying and enacting it in the world.

Rainer Maria Rilke wrote: “Joy is inexpressibly more than happiness.

Happiness befalls people; happiness is fate, while people cause joy to bloom inside themselves. Joy is plainly a good season for the heart; joy is the ultimate achievement of which human beings are capable.”

Andrew Harvey and Carolyn Baker are the authors of Return to Joy, a guide to reveal how to incarnate joy. The Sophia Institute is a center of learning that provides innovative programs that foster the rise of the feminine, cultivating wisdom and mindfulness for a more just, sustainable and flourishing world.

The Sophia Institute will present Returning to Joy with Andrew Harvey and Carolyn Baker at Lance Hall, 150 Meeting St., Charleston, on March 17 and 18. Register at TheSophiaInstitute.org/ events/returning-joy. See ad, page 15.

Follow us on

Facebook.com/NALowcountry

and visit our web page NALowcountry.com

for special offers from our advertisers! natural awakenings

March 2017

33

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 April issue must be received no later than March 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.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 4 Pillars with Ray Moore – Intuition – 7:30-9pm.

We refer to intuition as “instinctively knowing.”

You are a creature of instinct (survival, emotional and instinct to act) and a creature of knowing/ hearing/seeing. Let’s get clear and bring these two aspects in line so we might pay better attention. $27.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 4 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. With Jeannette Baummer, Usui/Holy Fire II Karuna Reiki Master.

FREE. The Healing Arts Center, 480 Jessen Ln, Charleston. 978-771-3201. mj.Reiki@comcast.net.

TheHealingArtsCenterSC.com.

Envision: Removing Abundance Blocks – 121:30pm. Discovering and removing abundance blocks. Is something keeping you from the success you desire? Join us as we clear your abundance blocks at this 90-minute session. Free. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant.

262-716-9325. Victoria.Hargis@gmail.com.

VictoriaHargis.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 5 Interfaith Teachings Native American Spirituality – 9:30am and 11:15am. Delia Chariker presents Native American Spirituality beliefs, practices, music and traditions. She will enrich us with beautiful singing and music. Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-566-0600.

UnityCharleston@msn.com. Unitychs.org.

Reiki I Class – 11am-5pm. Full Reiki I class from a highly experienced Reiki Master. Learn all of the techniques and background necessary to practice Reiki for yourself and others. Manual and lunch included. $200. Charleston Holistic Center, 2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg 8, Charleston. 843-452-7996.

DrLaura.Coach@gmail.com. CharlestonReikiAnd Tarot.com.

Truth Talk Life After Death and Beyond – 1pm.

Dr. Lee Irwin, from College of Charleston, discusses theories in religious traditions East and West and parapsychological research. Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-5660600. UnityCharleston@msn.com. Unitychs.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8 This Water Can Change Your Life – 9:30am. How can Kangen Ionized Water change the quality of your life? This live demonstration of some of the many benefits of the Kangen Ionized system is both informational and eye opening! FREE! Sign up Early for a chance to win Free 1 Week of Kangen Water! Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston.

34

NA Lowcountry Edition

843-343-6726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@ gmail.com. SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

4 Pillars with Ray Moore - Integrity – 7:30-9pm.

To thine own self be true. Inside all of us are the limiting beliefs that keep us from living our truth.

Let’s take a look at what’s going on and why you don’t really have to do anything about it. $27.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 9 Proactive, Predictive and Personal: Functional Medicine – 6-8pm. We Put the “FUNC” in Functional Medicine. Open House at Merge Medical Center. Learn/Experience cutting-edge technologies: NASA- approved BEMER Mat, Colon Hydrotherapy, IV Vitamin Therapy, Sexy Body Nutrition Coaching, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Acupuncture and More. Refreshments served. Free.

Merge Medical Center, 250 Mathis Ferry Rd, Ste 101, Mt Pleasant. 843-469-1001. Reception@ Merge-Medical.com. MergeMedicalCenter.com.

Detox the Chaos with Dr. Aminah Dean –77:30pm. This is not your average detox program. It’s a 21-day cleanse of the mind, emotions and physical body. Each week will bring revelation and release (literally!). Join us in the discussion to see how it will benefit you. FREE. Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

Introduction to Shamanic Journeying – 7-8:30pm.

Learn how to go on your own Shamanic Journeys from an experienced teacher and practitioner. Find your spirit animal and spirit teacher, journey to the upper, lower and middle worlds. 6 weekly classes, beginning Thurs, March 9. $120. Charleston Holistic Center, 2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg 8, Charleston. 843-452-7996. DrLaura.Coach@gmail.com.

CharlestonReikiAndTarot.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10 Spirit Quest – March 10-12. 7pm, Fri thru 1pm, Sun. Spirit Quest is a deeply prayerful, insightful experience.

Being open and receptive to the Spirit and listening in the profound quiet of the natural world is the focus of this 7-hour quest. Prayer is an integral part. $200, includes lodging and meals. Springbank Retreat, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree. 843-382-9777. Springbank@SpringbankRetreat.org. SpringbankRetreat.org.

Live Well Fest – 11am-5pm. Integrative Wellness Experience sponsored by Live Well Charleston and Natural Awakenings. Yoga, Meditation, Holistic healing, Wellness Village, Marketplace, pop-up shops, demos, food and music.

Free. Shelmore Village, Mt Pleasant. 203-2498053. Connect@LiveWellCharleston.com.

LiveWellCharleston.com.

Seva Stress Release for Others (Part 2) – 1-4pm.

Learn to provide the Seva Stress Release, a gentle yet powerful Acupressure protocol, for family and friends. Seva (Part 1) is a prerequisite for taking this class. Lunch provided. $60. Call Susan Popiel to participate. CE units available for nurses, MT. Free. Popiel Holistic Therapy, 1037-D Chuck Dawley Blvd, Ste 206, Mt Pleasant. 843-834-4168.

SusanPopiel3@gmail.com. SusanPopiel.com.

Detox the Chaos with Dr. Aminah Dean – 2pm.

This is not your average detox program. It’s a 21day cleanse of the mind, emotions and physical body. Each week will bring revelation and release (literally!). Join us in the discussion to see how it will benefit you. FREE. Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

Cultural Immersion Dinner – 6-9pm. A Taste of the Philippines with all your bliss buddies. See website DISCOVER tab for menu at blissSpiritualCoop.org. Facilitator and Cook: Don Albia. $10 Plate Charge. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. Tish@blissSpiritual Co-op.org. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

MONDAY, MARCH 13 Heal & Strengthen Your Sacral Chakra: Passion, Sexual Pleasure, Creativity – 7-8pm. 3/13 or 3/27.

Learn how to enhance your sexual pleasure, find passion and awaken your creativity with practical, hands-on techniques in an easy-to-understand, interactive, healing and learning environment. Drawing for a free signed piece of Chakra Art. Class limit: 9. $20. Seed of Life, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843696-4016. vibraSoulArt@gmail.com. vibraSoulArt. TicketLeap.com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 14 Spa for the Soul – March 14-16. 10am, Tues thru 4pm, Thurs. Let go of the weariness of life and take time to heal body, mind and soul. Experience foot massage, healing touch, massage, group experiences in centering prayer, aromatherapy, nutrition and acupuncture. Energize your creative spirit, refresh your soul, decrease stress. $375, includes lodging and meals. Springbank Retreat, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree. 843-382-9777. Springbank@ SpringbankRetreat.org. SpringbankRetreat.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

Journey to Your Inner Master – 12-week Ayurvedic Lifestyle Immersion – March 14-May 30. Do you wish for Youth and Renewed Vibrancy in your Life? Ayurveda teaches the Path to Balance and Longevity through Dinacharya ... Sacred Habits that activate the deep, Inner Life Force and Align us with the Natural Rhythms. $50 application fee + tuition costs. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-343-6726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com. SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

Reiki Level I – March 11-12. 10am-5pm Sat & Sun. Practical hands-on class includes a Reiki history, in-depth discussion and practices of Reiki’s many uses, a comprehensive manual, Level I Attunement and beautiful Certificate. Register by 3/8. $199.

Bodhi Tree, 772 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

843-327-4761. Maureen@BodhiTreeCharleston. com. BodhiTreeCharleston.com.

Whole Body Spring Cleanse – 6-7pm. Facilitated

by Dr. 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, West Ashley. 843-214-2997. Hello@LimeAndLotus.com.

LimeAndLotus.com.

NALowcountry.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 16 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 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 17 Returning to Joy with Andrew Harvey and Carolyn Baker – March 17-18. 6:30-8:30pm, Fri and 9:30am-5pm, Sat. Andrew and Carolyn will guide us as we examine the deeper meaning of joy, as well as acknowledge the lives of notable role models who carried joy alongside profound suffering. $25-$275. Lance Hall, 150 Meeting St, Charleston. 843-720-8528. Info@TheSophiaInstitute.org.

TheSophiaInstitute.org/events/returning-joy.

Other Modes of Understanding: Poetry – March 17-19. 7pm, Fri thru 1pm, Sun. Participate in a process to nurture the heart, energize the mind, and empower the spirit to give voice to what lies deep within. $275, includes lodging and meals.

Springbank Retreat, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree.

843-382-9777. Springbank@SpringbankRetreat. org. SpringbankRetreat.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 18 Usui Holy Fire II Reiki I & II Class – March 18-19.

9am-6pm each day. Reiki is an incredible discipline that will further your spiritual understanding of yourself and as well let you experience the joy of healing others and of watching the astonishment of your clients as they experience the healing powers of Reiki. $400. 301 E Richardson Ave, Summerville.

860-857-4815. RiverOfLife100@gmail.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 19 Reiki II Class – 11am-5pm. Complete Reiki II Class from a highly experienced Reiki Master. Learn the basic Reiki symbols, how to do distance Reiki, and deepen your understanding and practice. Manual and lunch included. $200. Charleston Holistic Center, 2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg 8, Charleston. 843-452-7996. DrLaura.Coach@gmail.com.

CharlestonReikiAndTarot.com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 21 Awakening the Soul Within – March 21-22. 10am, Tues thru 4pm Wed. Learn how to play a Native American-style flute that expresses your inner song. $200, includes lodging and meals. Springbank Retreat, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree.

843-382-9777. Springbank@SpringbankRetreat. org. SpringbankRetreat.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22 Intuition 101 with Ray Moore - A 5-Class Series – 7:30-9pm. We will be getting in touch with our intuition through meditation. Becoming quiet and going within takes practice, and with the energy tools and techniques shared in this series the journey within becomes simpler. 5 consecutive Wednesdays beginning March 22. $101. Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston. 843-974-5676. ErinSirona@gmail.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 23 Embracing Your Soul Purpose with Elizabeth Monroy – 7-8:15pm. Encoded in your DNA is a blueprint for your Soul’s Divine Purpose. Join

Elizabeth in exploring becoming one of the new spiritual entrepreneurs of this new age. You will be able to share your passions with your tribe! $27.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

Emotional Health Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Respectful Assertiveness; Discover skills to say no without feeling guilty. Ask for what you want without feeling selfish. Honor your boundaries in a way that makes you feel safe and without resentment.

Facilitator: Diana Deaver, Emotional Health Coach.

DianaDeaver@gmail.com. FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant.

843-345-7061. Tish@blissSpiritualCo-op.org. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

FRIDAY, MARCH 24 Incluza Palooza – 6-9pm. A celebration of diversity through entertainment and community action.

Proceeds go to local nonprofits. The event promotes the protection of rights, safety, health and families, recognizing that vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of our country. $5. Stern Center Ballroom at the College of Charleston, 71 George St, Charleston. Visit the Incluza-Palooza 2017 event page on Facebook for more information.

Crystal Pendulum Programming with Rose O’Hara – 7-8:30pm. Rose O’Hara would go to the bank on the answers she receives from her pendulum. Join us for a wonderful evening of learning about her deeper understanding of how this works.

Gaia’s gifts has beautiful pendulum options. $27.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

Practitioner Reiki Healing Energy Circle – 7-8:30pm. We are on a mission to create a powerful community of conscious healers devoted to awakening the greatest of human potential and to provide a supportive path for the spiritual growth of our community. This circle is for practitioners. $10.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25 Client Attraction and Branding for the Holistic Practitioner Workshop – 9am-3:30pm. Learn #1 action step to achieving your ideal practice; discover how to brand yourself as the expert in town; learn effective communication skills—3 ways to make changes in your practice that = BIG RESULTS. Lunch included. $125/preregistered, $150/at door.

Lime and Lotus, 925 Wappoo Rd, Ste F, West Ashley. 843-214-2997. Hello@LimeAndLotus.com.

LimeAndLotus.com.

Seva Stress-Release Class (Part 1 & Part 2) – 9am-12pm and 1-4pm. AM - Seva Stress Release (Part 1) - Acupressure for self-care. PM - Seva for Others (Part 2) - Learn Seva to offer family and friends. Lunch provided. CE units available for nurses, MT and ABT. Call Susan Popiel to participate. $60 for each class. Popiel Holistic Therapy, 1037-D Chuck Dawley Blvd, Ste 206, Mt Pleasant. 843-834-4168. SusanPopiel3@gmail.com.

SusanPopiel.com.

Creating with Crystals 1 – 10am-12pm. Learn fascinating information, meditation techniques, programing crystals and more! Optional kitchari for lunch: the perfect ayurvedic meal. There are many lunch options in our neighborhood. You get a crystal toolkit and manual with each class. $75 or $120 for both classes. Bridge to Avalon, 757 St

Andrews Blvd, Charleston. 843-974-5676. Jeannine@BridgeToAvalon.com. BridgeToAvalon.com.

Self-Care Workshop: Headaches, Low Back, Knee Pain – 10am-12:30pm - Upper Body, 1-3pm - Lower Body. Three instructors will teach a unique and proven set of healing modalities for relief of numerous common complaints. Taught by local Certified MyoKinesthetic Practitioners Melody Rogers and Gudrun Strmic and ZenBlends Educator AB Delmonico. Preregister. $95/session, $175/both sessions. The Healing Arts Center, 480 Jessen Ln, Charleston. 843-367-2631. GStrmic@gmail.com.

HealingArtsCenterSC.com.

Serenity Center Open House – 12-4pm. Opening of Multi-Purpose Yoga Studio. Teens, Hatha, Soul, Hip Hop. Introducing facilitators for Dance: Zumba, Belly-Dance, Wisdom Movement, Flow Motion. Discussion Groups: Spiritual Seekers, WiseWomen, WiseMen. Support Groups: Domestic Violence, Post-Partum, Reiki for PTSD. Drum Circle, Om Chanting, Essential Oils, Journaling, Legos, Exploring Food, Circuit Training. Showcasing new artists in gallery. Serenity Center, 820 Central Ave, Summerville. 843-695-9803. Serenity SC.com. Calendar listings on Facebook page.

Creating with Crystals 2 – 1:30-3:30pm. Building on the first class, we will discuss grids, layouts, mandalas with flowers and crystal uses to express yourself as love. You get a crystal toolkit and manual with each class. $75 or $120 for both classes.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

Dances of Universal Peace – 7pm. Mantra meditation in movement. Easy circle dances with spiritual music from many of the world religions. Fun and energizing. Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-566-0600. UnityCharleston@ msn.com. Unitychs.org.

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?

Please join us and bring your own bowl. $10.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 26 Unity of Charleston Holistic Health Fair/Fundraiser – Receive up to 5 20-minute sessions from Holistic Health Practitioners, such as Reiki, Tarot/ Angel Card Readings, Akashic Record Consults, Health/Life Coaching, Healing Touch, Essential Oils, Transformational Breath and more! Doors open at 1:30pm to sign up for sessions. First session begins at 1:45pm. Raffle and Silent Auction held during the event. Questions? Call Chrys at 843-364-5725. Lunch available at 12:30pm $9. $35. 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-566-0600.

UnityCharleston@msn.com. Unitychs.org.

Ayurveda 101: The 5 Elements of the Mind and How to Focus or Soothe Mental Disturbances – 2-3pm, followed by Q&A. An Introduction to the ancient Art and Science of Balance of Ayurvedic Concepts and Principles. We explore the Elemental Natures of the Mind (Psyche) through the 5 Elements to better understand its tendencies, influences and forces of change. $45 per class. $65 for 2 classes left in this series. The first 5 to sign up, receive $10 off and a Free Gift! Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-3436726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com.

SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

natural awakenings

March 2017

35

Basketry: Weaving Balance & Beauty – March 26-29. 7pm, Sun thru 5pm, Wed. Come and enjoy the contemplative art of basketry. Woven into the schedule will be time for personal reflection and communal prayer. No experience necessary; materials furnished. $350, includes lodging and meals.

Springbank Retreat, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree.

843-382-9777. Springbank@SpringbankRetreat. org. SpringbankRetreat.org.

THURSDAY, MARCH 30 Sound Bath Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm. Join Tarah Herrington, licensed acupuncturist, for an evening of deep relaxation and stress reduction to the sound of the crystal singing bowls. This guided meditation consists of auricular acupuncture and essential oils for stress reduction. Excellent for insomnia and anxiety. $25. 480 Jessen Ln, Ste C, Charleston.

843-779-5423. Info@WellRoundedHealing.com.

WellRoundedHealing.com/book-online.

planahead THURSDAY, APRIL 13

SUNDAY, APRIL 23 Ayurveda 101: The Elemental Natures of Soul Force and How to Shift Relationships – 2-3pm, followed by Q&A. An Introduction to the ancient Art and Science of Balance of Ayurvedic Concepts and Principles.

We will explore the Duality of Elemental Natures

ongoingevents sunday

Charleston Community Acupuncture – 10am1pm & 3-5:30pm (new extended hours). 1307 Savannah Hwy, Charleston. 843-763-7200.

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.

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.

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.

The Paschal Mystery for Our Time: An Easter Triduum Retreat – April 13-16. 10am, Thurs thru 1pm, Sun. Easter gives us hope in a time of ecological crisis. Includes Holy Thursday Seder/Eucharist, Good Friday Way of the Cross, Prayer Lodge, Holy Saturday, Great Easter Fire/Vigil at Mepkin Abbey with Trappist brothers, Easter morning Resurrection ritual, Easter brunch. $375, includes lodging and meals. Springbank Retreat, 1345 Springbank Rd, Kingstree. 843-382-9777. Springbank@SpringbankRetreat.org. SpringbankRetreat.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.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

Meditation Group – 5-6pm. Need some place to practice and discuss meditation? This is the group for you. Discussion time followed by a group meditation. Please bring a meditation cushion— some chairs available. $5. Charleston Holistic Center, 2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg 8, Charleston. 843-452-7996. DrLaura.Coach@gmail.com.

CharlestonHolisticCenter.com.

The Spiritual Awakening Journey Three Great Events on One Powerful Day! The Spiritual Awakening Journey –10am12pm. FREE. We all have a higher purpose in this existence. Attend a powerful spiritual event that will heighten your consciousness. I will channel the angels and you will see beautiful, pure light angelic beings caught on my camera. Come be a part of an incredible spiritual journey that will give you hope and inspiration.

Empower Yourself thru Conscious Awareness – 1-3pm. $100. You will learn techniques that will ignite your soul and raise your consciousness.

You will be engaged with your inner self. Come attend a workshop that will empower you, build your inner strength and awaken your soul toward its evolutionary purpose.

Private Meetings with the Angels – 3:30-7pm. $75. Only 7 slots, 30-min sessions. Limited slots for a private session to ask the angels for personal guidance. Email Awake@BettysSpiritualAwakening.net to register.

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.

monday Moms’ Healthy Happy Hour – 9-11am. Moms’ Self-Care Mondays: Pre/During/Post Pregnancy: Self Practices, Doula Advice, Sacred Healing and more.

Each week something new! Full online schedule per month on Facebook.com/SeedOfLife. Some classes have fees. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-343-6726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com. SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

Zigme hanging out in the country.

NA Lowcountry Edition

Functional Fitness Group Class – 6-7pm (except 3/6). Challenge the Body and Mind for a multilayered circuit training to enhance 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. 843-475-2156.

TransformUniversalFitness@yahoo.com.

tuesday Moms’ Healthy Happy Hour – 9-11am. Moms’ Fitness Tuesdays: Pre/During/Post Pregnancy: Yoga, Barre, Body Training, Strength and Functional Classes, and more. Each week something new!

Full online schedule per month on Facebook.com/ SeedOfLife. Some classes have fees. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-3436726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com.

SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

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.

Martial Arts Training – 6:30-8:30pm. 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.

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.

iGoddess Fair – 12-7pm. Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St, Charleston; an all-day immersive event celebrating and honoring women.

Embrace Your Inner Goddess! For more info, contact Suzie Webster at Info@iGoddessFair.com or visit iGoddessFair.com.

36

in the Chakra System Auric Field, and how they can be identified and influenced from the physical realm. $45 per class. The first 5 to sign up, receive $10 off and a Free Gift! Seed of Life Collective 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-343-6726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com. SeedOfLifeCollective.com.

NALowcountry.com

Restoring the Love – 7-8:30pm. 3rd Tues of the month. Join this monthly journey to discuss, share and explore how we become wired to be wounded, why we re-enact to suffer, and how we heal ourselves and our intimate relationships. Facilitator: Glenn Cohen, Relationship Coach. FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleas-

ant. 843-345-7061. Glenn@GlennSCohen.com.

GlennSCohen.com. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

Bridge to Avalon, 757 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston.

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

BridgeToAvalon.com.

wednesday

Martial Arts Training – 6:30-8:30pm. 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.

Moms’ Healthy Happy Hour – 9-11am. Moms’ Family Care Wednesdays: Pre/During/Post Pregnancy: Peer Support, Baby Massage, Healthy Eating and Cleaning, and more. Each week something new!

Full online schedule per month on Facebook.com/ SeedOfLife. Some classes have fees. Seed of Life Collective, 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston. 843-3436726. SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com.

SeedOfLifeCollective.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.

Functional Fitness Group Class – 6-7pm (except 3/8). Challenge the Body and Mind for a multilayered circuit training to enhance 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. 843-475-2156.

TransformUniversalFitness@yahoo.com.

Guided Meditations – 6:30-7:15pm. Through visually guided meditations, together, we will raise our vibrational frequencies. Weekly sessions are one hour, beginning with a Spirit-channeled visualization/meditation. Upon completion, everyone will have an opportunity to share visions, insights, breakthroughs and more. $10 donation. Bridge to Avalon, 757 St 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.

Community Reiki Clinic Sponsored by Bodhi Tree Charleston – 6:30-8:30pm. 2nd Wed of the month. The clinic is open to both Reiki Practitioners and those who would like to receive. The evening begins with a Centering Circle, followed by 1520-min treatments. Street Parking in front or next door at dentist. Love Donation. 772 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston (inside Healing Oasis). 843327-4761. Maureen@BodhiTreeCharleston.com.

BodhiTreeCharleston.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 Natural Health Consultations with Dr. Dean – 10-6pm. Dr. Dean uses various modalities to treat the root cause of illnesses, including nutrition, herbs, flower remedies, energy work and overall healthy living. Please call for an initial consultation.

Food for Thought: Unity’s 5 Principles – 7-8pm.

Every Thursday in March. Explore Unity teachings with your own spiritual understanding, enhanced through reflective prayer and meditation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-5660600. UnityCharleston@msn.com. Unitychs.org.

Intuitive Cooking – 7-8:30pm. Explore how to cook instinctively without recipe or plan. Bring three ingredients, which will be combined with other contributions to create a unique feast each month. Enjoy a fun, casual evening with food and friends. Facilitator: Tish Voit. Cost: 3 ingredients. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. Tish@blissSpiritualCo-op. org. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

Poetry Writing/Figure Drawing – 7-8:30pm.

Play with pencils. Poetry Writing every 1st, 2nd and 4th Thurs with Facilitator Jack Tracey and Figure Drawing every 3rd Thurs with Facilitator Roy Hiller. All welcome as we sharpen our skills together. Bring own materials or use ours. FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. Tish@blissSpiritualCo-op. org. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

friday Mastermind – 12:30-1:15pm. Clarify changes you wish to attract into your life in a small group process with 3-5 members per group that will meet weekly for 30-45 minutes per session with the purpose to facilitate change. Facilitator: Joseph Benton. FREE. bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Dr, Mt Pleasant. 843-345-7061. Tish@blissSpiritualCo-op. org. blissSpiritualCo-op.org.

Functional Fitness Group Class – 11am (except 3/4). Challenge the Body and Mind for a multilayered circuit training to enhance 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. 843-475-2156.

TransformUniversalFitness@yahoo.com.

Martial Arts Training – 10am-12pm. 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.

classifieds Have a job to fill or a space to rent?

Advertise in our classified section.

Information is due by March 10 for the April issue. Cost is $25/month for 30 words; additional words are $0.50 each. Must be prepaid. Email to PublisherNALowcountry@gmail.com OPPORTUNITIES Looking for – Massage Therapists, Estheticians, Energy Workers, Personal Trainers, Fitness Instructors, Yoga Instructors, Artists, Educators, Speakers, & anyone Seeking Change in our world to join us in our West Ashley 2500 sq. ft. Alternative Health & Wellness Center!

SeedofLifeCollective.com. For more info, email us! SeedofLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com.

Looking to reach 100s of women in one day? There are booth spaces still available for the April 15th iGoddess Fair at the Gaillard Center. Only 50 Vendors/Exhibitors! Contact Suzie Webster at info@IGoddessFair.com or visit igoddessfair.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 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.

Claire Vaughan holding her dog, Ciel M Vaughan.

natural awakenings

March 2017

37

communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email PublisherNALowcountry@gmail.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).

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.

THE HEALING ARTS CENTER

Allison Kirk and Gudrun Strmic 480 Jessen Ln, Charleston 843-631-6422 • HealingArtsCenterSC.com Each therapist has a unique background providing tailored treatments for every client. This month’s featured therapist is Tarah Herrington, licensed acupuncturist specializing in fertility, anxiety and women’s health—including pregnancy, postpartum and menopausal care—as well as pediatric and teen wellness.

Ayurveda SEED OF LIFE COLLECTIVE

Melody Rogers, Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach and Educator 621 Wappoo Rd, Charleston 843-343-6726 SeedOfLifeWellnessCollective@gmail.com SeedOfLifeCollective.com Ayurveda is the Science of Balance and Longevity in Life. Call today for your Free Consultation and learn how Ayurveda can help you!

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.

ALTERNATIVE HOLISTIC MEDICINE

beauty consultant YOUR GROOMING GURU

1319 Savannah Hwy, Ste C Charleston (in Artisans Inc Salon) 843-813-1838 YourGroomingGuru.com Your Grooming Guru, Barbara Brant-Williams, is an experienced hair-stylist, 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. See ad, page 27.

HEALING OASIS LLC

bodywork

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

THE HEALING ARTS CENTER

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.

38

NA Lowcountry Edition

Allison Kirk and Gudrun Strmic 480 Jessen Ln, Charleston 843-631-6422 • HealingArtsCenterSC.com Each therapist has a unique background providing tailored treatments for every client. This month’s featured therapist is Gabrielle Bankston. She skillfully integrates techniques, such as neuromuscular, reflexology and trigger point therapy, into her massages.

NALowcountry.com

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

LOTUS HOLISTIC MASSAGE 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 Susan provides natural and compassionate therapy that promotes relief from pain and anxiety and improves immune f u n c t i o n . I d e a l f o r s u rg e r y preparation. She is certified in CranioSacral Therapy, Acupressure and Zero Balancing.

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 13.

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.

JAMES SEXTON, DMD, MAGD

dating coach

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

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.

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

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

eco-cleaning ABOVE & BEYOND CLEANING LLC Kimberly Henderson • 843-901-4779 AboveAndBeyondCleaningllc.com

DENTISTRY DELITE DENTAL

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

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.

EMOTIONAL HEALTH LIFE COACHINg DIANA DEAVER

Emotional Health Life Coaching 843-209-8869 Working with a life coach is an intimidating but rewarding personal experience that involves quality one-on-one time and deep, meaningful inquiry. Diana’s coaching process focuses on healing painful emotional wounds, resolving self-sabotaging patterns, and creating a gentler attitude toward self.

ENERGY HEALING

JULIE OBENCHAIN, DDS

924 Tall Pine Rd, Mt Pleasant 843-884-0701 • PleasantSmilesCFD.com

JENNIFER E. MICHAELS

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 25.

COSMETICS

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!

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!

There is nothing on this Earth more to be prized than true friendship. ~Thomas Aquinas

natural awakenings

March 2017

39

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.

GOD’S GREEN ACRE

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.

INTUITIVE GUIDANCE CAROL COTTRELL, INTUITIVE MEDIUM

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

VITAMIN PLUS+

Herbs and Health Foods 119 N Goose Creek Blvd, Ste K Goose Creek • 843-797-3200

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!

HEALTH FOOD STORES EUCALYPTUS WELLNESS & ELIXIR BAR 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.

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.

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 21.

KANGEN IONIZED WATER

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.

HOLISTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY LANCE GARLAND

Charleston Holistic Center 2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg 8, Charleston 843-225-2024 CharlestonHolisticCenter.com Eicensed, full-service counselor specializing in all aspects of anxiety.

Certified in Hypnotherapy, EMDR, E F T, P a s t - L i f e R e g r e s s i o n , Mindfulness and Dream Analysis.

Whatever you’re experiencing, we can help you find your way to a happier life. See ad, page 27.

Jennifer Iamele Savage, MEd 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.

40

NA Lowcountry Edition

NALowcountry.com

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 7.

J SALON

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 11.

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.

reiki BODHI TREE CHARLESTON

Maureen Donohue, LMT #3231 772 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston 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.

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

Transformational Coach

relocation specialist

GERRY SCHMIDT, PhD

DI JOHNSON

Master Coach Central location • 843-478-4090 GerrySchmidt.com

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!

SPIRITUAL LIFE COACH

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 9.

WOMEN’S HEALTH

LAURA GRIFFITH GARLAND

Charleston Holistic Center 2366 Ashley River Rd, Bldg 8, Charleston 843-452-7996 • DrLaura.Coach@gmail.com CharlestonReikiAndTarot.com Transform your life from the ordinary to the extraordinary by understanding how the aspects of your being interact and block your progress. Together, we can heal your past and find your true future. See ad, page 16.

DR. STEPHANIE ZGRAGGEN, DC, MS, CNS, CCN

Lime and Lotus LLC Healing Arts Center 925 Wappoo Rd, Ste F, Charleston 843-214-2997 • Hello@DrZgraggen.com HealYourHormonesNow.com Painful periods? Hot flashes?

Fatigue? Weight gain? Let us help you balance your hormones naturally with the use of food and herbs.

soul coach WE EMPOWER CONSCIOUSNESS

Dr. Wendy M. Perrell, Certified Soul Coach and Shaman 907-317-2483 • wperrell@wppec.com Meetup: Charleston~Align 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.

THERMOGRAPHY

The secret of

getting ahead is getting started. ~Mark Twain

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

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.

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.

natural awakenings

March 2017

41

Tur� Your Passion Into a Business

Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine Our publishers ranked us among the highest in franchise satisfaction for our Training, Support, Core Values and Integrity!*

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you can empower yourself and others to create a healthier world while working from your home earning an income doing something you love!

No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.

• Meaningful New Career • Low Initial Investment • Proven Business System • Home-Based Business • Exceptional Franchise Support & Training

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 85 markets across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic (listed below).

Contact us about acquiring an existing publication FOR SALE highlighted in RED*.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Huntsville, AL Gulf Coast AL/MS Phoenix, AZ* Tucson, AZ East Bay Area, CA San Diego, CA Boulder/Ft. Collins, CO Denver, CO Fairfield County/ HousatonicValley, CT Hartford, CT New Haven/ Middlesex, CT Washington, DC Daytona/Volusia/ Flagler, FL NW FL Emerald Coast Ft. Lauderdale, FL Jacksonville/ St. Augustine, FL Melbourne/Vero, FL Miami & the Florida Keys Naples/Ft. Myers, FL North Central FL Orlando, FL Palm Beach, FL Peace River, FL Sarasota, FL Tampa/St. Pete., FL Treasure Coast, FL Atlanta, GA Hawaiian Islands Chicago, IL Chicago Western Suburbs, IL Indianapolis, IN Baton Rouge, LA Lafayette, LA New Orleans, LA Boston, MA Worcester, MA Ann Arbor, MI East Michigan Wayne County, MI* Western MI Minneapolis/ St. Paul, MN* Charlotte, NC

• Raleigh/Durham/ Chapel Hill, NC • Bergen/Passaic, NJ* • Central, NJ • Hudson County, NJ • Mercer County, NJ • Monmouth/ Ocean, NJ • North Central NJ • South NJ • Santa Fe/Abq., NM* • Las Vegas, NV • Albany, NY* • Long Island, NY • Hudson Valley W., NY • Manhattan, NY* • Westchester/ Putnam Co’s., NY • Central OH • Cincinnati, OH* • Toledo, OH* • Oklahoma City, OK • Portland, OR • Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA • Chester/Delaware Counties, PA • Harrisburg/York, PA • Lancaster/Berks, PA • Lehigh Valley, PA* • Northeast, PA • Philadelphia, PA • Rhode Island • Charleston, SC • Columbia, SC • Greenville, SC* • Chattanooga, TN* • Austin, TX* • Dallas, TX • Houston, TX • North, TX • San Antonio, TX* • South Houston/ Galveston, TX • Richmond, VA • Seattle, WA • Madison, WI* • Milwaukee, WI • Puerto Rico • Dominican Republic

* Existing magazines for sale Start a magazine in an OPEN TERRITORY • • • • •

For more information, visit our website NaturalAwakeningsFranchise.com or call 239-530-1377

*Natural Awakenings recently received the prestigious FBR50 Franchise Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review.

• • • • •

Los Angeles, CA Riverside, CA Sacramento, CA San Bernadino, CA Santa Barbara/ Ventura, CA Santa Clara Co., CA Southern, MA Anapolis, MD Baltimore, MD Kansas City, MO

• Saint Louis, MO • Bronyx, NY • Brooklyn/ Staten Island, NY • Cleveland, OH • Pittsburgh, PA • Nashville, TN • Ft. Worth, TX • Salt Lake City, UT Inquire about other open areas

Get Back Into Get Back Into Action Naturally!

Action Naturally!

How can Regenerative How can Regenerative Cellular Therapy & Platelet Cellular Therapy & Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment Richhelp Plasma (PRP) me?Treatment (PRP) help If you suffer from me?

PAIN in anyIfof these areas, you may you suffer from PAIN in be any a prime candidate of these areas,for youthis may NEW andthis beMedical a primeTechnology candidate for become PAIN FREE! NEW Medical Technology and become PAIN FREE! ■ Shoulder ■ Elbow ■ Shoulder ■ Knee ■ Elbow ■ Foot & Ankle ■ Knee ■ Hand & Wrist ■ Foot & Ankle ■ Hip/Pelvis ■ Hand & Wrist ■ Hip/Pelvis

40%-50% 40%-50% SAVINGS SAVINGS

compared to Mt. Pleasant & Daniel Island. compared Mt. Pleasant Regenerative to Cellular Therapy & PRP Island. & Daniel Regenerative Cellular Therapy & PRP

588 Old Mt. Holly Road Goose 29445 588 Creek, Old Mt.SCHolly Road Goose Creek, SC 29445

R61-1545571-1 R61-1545 R6115455711545 571-

R61-1545571-1 R61-1545 R6115455711545 571-