Natural Awakenings – Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess NY Issue February 2022 by Natural Awakenings Westchester Putnam Dutchess Edition

E R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

MINDING THE HEART

Why the Heart-Brain Connection Matters

SACRED SEXUALITY INTIMACY AS A HEALING FORCE DAVID PERLMUTTER ON THE ROLE OF URIC ACID IN METABOLIC HEALTH FERMENTED FOOD MAKES A COMEBACK

February 2022 | Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition | WakeUpNaturally.com February 2022

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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February 2022

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from publishers

Do All With Love

WESTCHESTER/ PUTNAM/ DUTCHESS EDITION Publishers Dana Boulanger Marilee Burrell Editors Allison Gorman Dawne Clark Marilee Burrell Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Patrick Floresca Marilee Burrell Sales & Marketing Dana Boulanger

CONTACT US PO Box 776 Pawling, NY 12564 Ph: 845.593.0065 WakeUpNaturally.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

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Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

© 2021 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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Love does not dominate; it cultivates. —Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

ultivating a life you love—and loving the life you have—is a mindset. I like to start my day with an attitude of gratitude, which keeps me presDana Boulanger Marilee Burrell ent, positive and optimistic. I began that practice years ago, reminded by a picture my son gave me with one of my favorite sayings: Do All With Love. For me, a loving life cultivates kindness, grace, compassion and gratitude, along with joy, excitement, creativity and curiosity. Holding space in my life for unconditional love has been healing; it has allowed me to create healthier boundaries and relationships. I’ve learned to pivot to what feels good for me, which allows others to do the same for themselves. Loving with an open heart has been transformational for me. I’ve never been happier. Spiritual leaders, philosophers and therapists will tell you that this sort of transformation must start with self-love. Tending to our own health, wellness and mindset allows us to show up for others “ready to be ready”: ready to give and receive in all our relationships, and especially our intimate partnerships. The mind-body connection is powerful; our thoughts fuel our actions, and our actions pave the way to our journey. February is Heart Health Month, when we look at the heart-mind connection, understand sex as a sacred act that initiates healing for both partners, and recognize that love is a verb, a powerful action that not only inspires, but heals. Our feature article on page 22, “The Heart-Mind Connection: How Thoughts and Emotions Affect Our Heart Health,” is full of great heart-and-brain-healthy strategies. Something to keep in mind: Love and laughter are healing, while anger, anxiety and loneliness can be harmful to the heart. Our Healing Ways article, on page 28, “Truly Making Love: Sex and Intimacy As a Healing Force,” offers playful approaches to keeping the fire stoked and having fun with your partner—there’s even homework! And our Inspiration article, on page 32, “Living in the Frequency of Love,” is a quick read yet speaks to my very core. Hopefully it will inspire you too. Be sure to check out our monthly news briefs, starting on page 8). Hopefully you’ll be as thrilled as we were to find new practitioners moving into our region and new therapies being introduced, including fresh ways to boost our immunity. We’re happy to tell you about several upcoming local events, such as a women’s retreat happening in Ossining, a winter expo in Fishkill and a shamanic ceremony in Putnam Valley. We even have a nice discount on subscriptions to our Natural Awakenings Singles network—happy Valentine’s Day! And in case you haven’t heard, Marilee and I are seeking a new publisher (or a publishing team, like us) to carry on this beloved magazine. I love what I do and feel blessed to have been doing it for so many years. But now it’s time for us to pivot and embrace new pathways of joy. Adventures lie ahead for both Marilee and me. If you’re interested in stepping into a new journey, consider becoming your own boss: Be the publisher of this Natural Awakenings magazine. Our readers love us. They’ll love you too! With gratitude,

Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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February 2022

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Contents 18 MAPLE SUGARING

KICKS OFF THIS MONTH

20 FERMENTING FOR FOODIES

Preserving Food and Traditions

22 THE HEART-MIND CONNECTION

How Thoughts and Emotions Affect Our Heart Health

26 DAVID PERLMUTTER

on the Role of Uric Acid in Metabolic Health

28 TRULY MAKING LOVE Sex and Intimacy as a Healing Force

30 FOSTERING LOVE

Tips for First-Time Pet Foster Parents

32 LIVING IN THE

FREQUENCY OF LOVE

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 845.593.0065 or email Dana-NA@WakeUpNaturally.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Marilee@ WakeUpNaturally.com. Deadline for editorial: the 12th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email Calendar Events to: marilee@wakeupnaturally.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239.434.9392. For franchising opportunities call 239.530.1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

34 POWER UP

YOUR WORKOUTS

A Guide to Protein Powders and Shakes

DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 16 health briefs 17 global briefs 18 kudos 18 local food 20 conscious eating 26 wise words 28 healing ways 30 natural pet

32 inspiration 34 fit body 38 calendar 41 classifieds 41 planet

watch 42 resource guide February 2022

news briefs

Perlove Acupuncture + Wellness Opens Two Westchester Offices

erlove Acupuncture + Wellness recently moved from Santa Monica, California, to Westchester, with offices in Hartsdale and Mount Kisco. Owner Heather Perlow says she’s treated patients for a wide variety of concerns, including pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, OCD, migraines, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, digestive and skin issues, scars, trauma, Bell’s palsy, pre- and post-surgical care, and gynecological issues. “Each of my treatment plans are Heather Perlow tailored to meet my patients’ needs and promote healing through the use of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, Reiki and qigong,” she says. “I’m currently pursuing advanced sports medicine and facial acupuncture certifications in order to deepen my expertise in these areas. I’m an acupuncturist people can trust with chronic and acute physical or emotional conditions. I really love treating everything—I think it’s wonderful that this medicine can treat so many different things.” The two new Westchester locations provide more opportunities for area residents to receive holistic care, Perlow says. “I really feel strongly that people’s health needs to be approached holistically,” she says. “Everything is connected, and every aspect of your health matters.” Locations: Perlove Acupuncture + Wellness, 111 N. Central Ave., Ste. 270, Hartsdale, NY, and 27 Radio Circle Dr., #100, Mt. Kisco, NY. For appointments and more information, call 914.200.3343, email heather@perloveacupuncture.com, or visit PerloveAcupuncture.com.

Special Valentine’s Offer from NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

s we approach two full years of dealing with the pandemic, many have taken the opportunity to do some serious soul-searching, and many singles have come to the realization that they desire a deeply connected, conscious and loving relationship. To help in their quests, especially during special days this month that usually provide many face-to-face opportunities for potential romance that the health crisis has inhibited, NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com is having a Valentine’s Sale from February 10 through 15 with all subscriptions being offered at 25 percent off of regular prices during this period. The platform, a leading holistic, conscious dating site and a venue for eco-conscious and spiritual singles to meet each other, is not a superficial, “swipedy-swipe” app, but a truly “help singles meet their match” dating site. Each member exerts control over which profiles they view and with whom they choose to initiate contact. The detailed profiles allow members to read and learn about potential matches, which makes meeting someone compatible more probable. Further, its new video dating feature has been well received as it allows members to get to know each other before meeting in person. For more information, visit NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com. See ad on page 6. 8

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Stephanie Spengeman Photography

Kacey Morabito Grean

Kacey Grean to Lead Women’s Retreat in Ossining

acey Morabito Grean, co-host of “Mike & Kacey in the Morning” on 100.7-WHUD, is hosting Gather Love, Give Love—a weekend retreat for women—beginning February 25 at The Center at Mariandale, located in Ossining on the banks of the Hudson River. “Women of all ages are invited to pack a bag and head for inspiration at this inperson weekend retreat,” Grean says. “I am gathering a panel of experts to present an uplifting weekend. Masks, distancing and all safe practices will be observed when necessary.” The theme for the weekend is “love in abundance,” she says. “What can you create in your life when you stand in a place of love? Labyrinth walking, meditation, sunsets and sound healing will help remind you of all that is possible. Bring your winterwear, because the Hudson River views from the Mariandale Walking trail are not to be missed. Inside, massage and Reiki will be available, and there is a chapel on site.” The retreat begins at 5 p.m. on Friday and concludes at 1 p.m. Sunday. All meals are included with the two-night stay at The Mariandale Retreat Center. “I’ve led these retreats at Mariandale for several years, and each time the gathering is magical,” Grean says. “There’s time together and time for private renewal and self-discovery too.”

coming in the march issue

Food & Nutrition

Cost: $285 (all inclusive). Location: The Mariandale Retreat Center, 299 North Highland Ave., Ossining, NY. To register, visit Mariandale.org. For more info about Grean or to hear her “Shine On” podcast, visit KaceysPlace.com. February 2022

Peak Life Therapies Boost Immunity and Relieve Long Covid Symptoms

When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace. ~Dalai Lama

reg Ribaudo, health coach and owner of Peak Life Holistics, in Somers, says many of the therapies they offer help to boost immunity and baseline health, increasing resilience and recovery to viruses like cold, flu and Covid 19. Peak Life is also helping individuals who have been suffering from long Covid syndrome, whose side effects typically include fatigue, aches and pains, brain fog, respiratory issues and loss of taste and smell. “Our robust oxygen therapies help to boost Elise Perelman & Greg Ribaudo, owners clients’ immune response and clear the lingering effects of past infections,” Ribaudo says. “This is accomplished through the use of ozone saunas, exercise with oxygen, and specific nebulization protocols. We combine these therapies with PEMF, infrared and red-light therapies to maximize the body’s ability to absorb oxygen, increasing blood flow and healing.” The use of infrared saunas in conjunction with oxygen therapies has been “very effective in helping the body to get deep relief and detoxification, as well as relaxing the nervous system,” he says, also noting that many clients report feeling much better right away, with an uplifted sense of overall well-being. “We help boost your immune system and vitality, which decreases your chances of severe illness and helps to expedite recovery time after any cold or flu, as well as making you feel better,” he says. Location: Peak Life Holistics, 13 Edgewood Dr., Somers, NY. For more info, call 914.301.3393, email PEAKLIFEholistics@gmail.com or visit PeakLifeHolistics.com. See ad, page 15.

ost of us have experienced déjà vu or had a baffling reaction to someone we’ve just met, like immediate love or dislike. Past-life regression hypnosis can help explain behavior patterns, thoughts or feelings that don’t make sense in this lifetime, says Cynthia M. Chase, who offers sessions both in person and via Zoom. “Past-life regression hypnosis is a safe technique used to help you recover important memories of the past in this life, or in a previous life or incarnation,” she says. “We are also able to access the experience of being in between incarnations. The premise is that we are spiritual beings that exist in divinity, and that we choose to incarnate on the earth plane to learn important life lessons for the evolution of our soul. This is a beautiful way to rediscover important parts of your soulself to help you now, in this life.” Sessions last an hour and a half—“enough time for a deep dive,” Chase says—and are designed to help clients discover a part of their past or a past life that would assist in healing some aspect of their present life. “This work promotes self-knowledge and healing,” she says. “An individual past-life regression hypnosis session can be the portal that reveals realms of your soul-self that were previously hidden.” Chase is also a Reiki master/teacher and a licensed clinical social worker. Location: 1 Abbey Place, Yonkers, NY. For info, call 860.395.0284, email cynthiamchase@ gmail.com or visit CynthiaMChase.com. 10

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Past-Life Regression Hypnosis Can Help Heal Hurts

SoftWave Pain Therapy Coming to Westchester

oftWave Therapy, a patented, FDA-cleared treatment for inflammation, chronic pain, diabetes and joint issues, will be available for the first time in Westchester in March, when SoftWave Therapy of New York opens in White Plains. Dr. George Gertner is owner and director of SoftWave TherapyNY, which will share office space with his existing chiroOrthoGold 100 practic practice, UCC-NY. with applicator. He says the therapy is a drug-free, injection-free, surgery-free approach to ending pain. The treatments themselves are painless, he adds; they promote fast healing by stimulating new stem cells, increasing circulation, and breaking up scar tissue and/or painful calcifications. Clinical studies show SoftWave Therapy has a 91 percent success rate. “Most patients begin to experience relief after their first 15-minute treatment. The patient will know quickly if they are a candidate for this therapy.” Gertner says. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in five American adults could be living in chronic pain, defined as pain most days or every day for the past six months or longer. There’s a higher prevalence among older people and women. SoftWave Therapy uses various lens configurations to produce safe, regenerative soft-pressure waves within the body, he says. The results include a dramatic reduction of inflammation in the body as new, healthy stem cells are encouraged to grow. Gertner says it can treat discomfort associated with a number of conditions, including diabetes, joint pain, chronic back pain, wound pain, numbing or tingling, tennis elbow, torn ligaments, heel spurs and plantar fasciitis. To mark its grand opening, SoftWave Therapy of New York will offer patients a special one-time discounted rate. Please call in advance to make a reservation, as appointments will be limited. Location: SoftWave Therapy of New York, 311 North St., Ste. 410, White Plains, NY. For more information or to book an appointment, call 914.686.6200. See ad, page 47.

There is only ever one choice. Either you are living from your heart and moving toward your limitless potential, or you are continuing to live in fear and limitation. – Panache Desai February 2022

news briefs

Tap into Tiger Energy with Dowsing, Feng Shui

Mojan Javadi Clarke

Shamanic Ceremony Set for ‘Open Portal’ Day of 2/20/22

n February 20, Yima Healing will host a shamanic ceremony, Rite of Passage, to mark the transition to 2022, “a massive year of opportunities for creating anew and releasing the past all at once.” The ceremony will be held at Yima Healing’s Putnam Valley wellness center, led by founder Mojan Javadi Clarke, a shamanic energy medicine practitioner and holistic coach. “We are guided to align with the forces of the earth and sky through an open portal on 2/20/2022,” Clarke says. “On this very special day, we will hold a sacred ceremony for our brothers and sisters, including a shamanic journey to discover their own, unique gift to create beauty on Earth.” The ceremony will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. (plan to arrive by 1:45 p.m.) and feature a shamanic journey and fire ceremony, with medicinal music by Colombian master musician Arkawa. Light food and refreshments will be provided. In the shamanic tradition, ritual is an integral part of celebrating moments of great significance, a way to mark the transition from one chapter of our lives to the next in a meaningful way, leaving unwanted baggage from the past behind, Clarke says. “After the unsettled and chaotic experience of the last two years, we invite you now, during this important year of balance, to release and be free so that you may journey forward in completeness,” she says. “In this powerful Q’ero ceremony, we give thanks to the lessons of the past, honor them and release them. In that process, we free ourselves to step into a new experience completely unfettered by unwanted psychological or spiritual remnants from a time that is now closed. We share this experience as a community to bear witness and hold space for one another. In a sense, we make a promise to both ourselves and the community to live authentically and to completely follow our path forward.”

he Chinese New Year on February 1 presents the perfect time to take advantage of the best aspects of the Year of the Tiger, says Jeanie Pasquale, founder of House Harmony. Calling it “an auspicious time to experience fortitude and restoration,” she says tapping into that energy gives us the power to influence our new year without having to make a resolution. “Every new year begins with a specific set of constellations and energy that has never been seen before,” she says. “Some people think they’re at the mercy of these influences, while others take control by using knowledge to cure their environment and activate their living and work spaces to support the increase of abundance, romance and health.” To tap into that energy, Pasquale recommends contacting a professional dowser who is also experienced in feng shui. “Energy dowsing” combines the most powerful aspects of both ancient practices, she says. “The dowser will assess your environment and come up with a plan to remove the influences that drain energy and enhance those that create healthy, positive energy,” she says. “Additionally, at this time of year they will guide you in enhancing these energy shifts with a few strategic feng shui adjustments to your home and workplace.” As an energy dowser, Pasquale says her longtime clients can attest to feeling powerful energy shifts immediately, as well as long-term effects they never predicted. “One client, whose house was overcrowded with furniture and boxes after her father’s death, realized a few months later that many of the things she’d previously found hard to let go of were either given to family, donated or discarded. It happened almost without her even realizing it,” Pasquale says. “Another, whose business had been struggling, experienced an increase in traffic and success in closing deals and moving stuck inventory, after removing geopathic stress at the entrance.” House Harmony offers quick complimentary assessments of homes and businesses and can develop an individualized plan for the space to bring “health, positive energy and abundance” for the new year, Pasquale says. To schedule an assessment or for more info, call 845.709.5245 or visit HouseHarmony.org.

Cost: $177 (early-bird price) or $222 (full price). Location: Yima Healing, Putnam Valley, NY. To register, call 914.771.1694, email info@yimahealing.com or visit bit.ly/3fntwgf. For more info, visit YimaHealing.com. 12

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Love yourself unconditionally. Love yourself so much that you will grant your heart feelings of love and kindness for others. ~Avijeet Das

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Earth Treasures at HVHM

Winter Wellness Expo Set for February 27

kasha’s Journey and the Hudson Valley Holistic Market (HVHM) will host Winter Wellness Expo 2022 on February 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Comfort Suites Hotel and Banquets in Fishkill. This free event will feature holistic vendors, readers and healing practitioners, such as vendors Earth Treasures Gifts, Akasha’s Journey and Ascension Energy Healing, and readers Michelle Lorenzo and Gina Burton-Fisher. Vendor and practitioner spots are still available for less than $100, says Maryalyce Merritt, owner of Akasha’s Journey and HVHM. The first 25 people who enter the expo through the main door at 10 a.m. will receive swag bags. Properly worn masks are required regardless of vaccination status. This is the fifth annual Winter Wellness Expo and one of many events HVHM hosts, Merritt notes. “Hudson Valley Holistic Market is a sacred space where soul-level entrepreneurs gather to bring their gifts of body, mind and spirit healing to the community,” she says. “We are a community of body-mindspirit vendors, readers, artists and practitioners. We organize markets that feature local vendors, artists, artisans, readers, healing practitioners and growers, and our market events may also feature weekly classes given by one of our vendors.” HVHM is in the process of jurying vendors for its 2022 season. Any business or practitioner interested in vending opportunities should visit HudsonValleyHolisticMarket.com for the application and contract. Location: Comfort Suites Hotel and Banquets, 835 Rte. 52, Fishkill, NY. For more info, call 845.244.0844 or visit HudsonValleyHolisticMarket.com.

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EE H EALTHY LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

BOOSTING BRAIN HEALTH HALLMARKS OF HEALTHY COGNITION

Plant Medicine and How it Heals Us Eat Well to Feel Well HOLIDAY FARE THAT BOOSTS MENTAL HEALTH

DANCE as a Sacred Practice Dying Well

FOUR STEPS TO A GOOD DEATH November 2021 | Westchester/Putna m/Dutchess NY Edition | WakeUpNaturally.c om November 2021

February 2022

Earth Angels Promotes Pet Dental Health Month

Guiding Eyes Taking Applications for ‘Puppy Raisers’

arth Angels Veterinary Hospital, in Wappingers Falls, is recognizing National Pet Dental Health Month by offering special pricing on a dental procedure throughout the month of February. Owner Dr. Alexandra Barrientos says keeping pets’ teeth in good condition is beneficial for their overall health. “Horrific breath and brown teeth are only the surface of a potentially big issue,” she says. “If your dog or cat has terrible breath and brown teeth, he or she needs a dental examination.” Bad breath is the first sign of gum disease, which can be the start of significant health issues in pets, she explains. “Eighty percent of dogs have some degree of periodontal disease by age two. Some cats and toy dog breeds are genetically predisposed to gum disease, placing them in danger of systemic irreversible diseases at a younger age. Bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream through unhealthy gum tissue, and this can cause damage throughout your pet’s body.” She lists several diseases caused by poor dental health, including heart valve infections leading to permanent heart disease, tooth loss and cavities, bone infections or loss of jawbone, liver infections, ear infections, kidney disease, malnutrition and weight loss, stress or unsocial behavior due to chronic pain, and infections that can be passed on to people through bites and scratches. Earth Angels is an integrative, full-service small-animal hospital offering alternative and conventional modalities.

uiding Eyes for the Blind is accepting applications for new “puppy raisers,” volunteers who are specially trained to raise the puppies that will eventually become guide dogs. “Our raisers are responsible for nurturing a puppy to prepare it for guide-dog training,” says Kerry Lemerise, puppy program manager. “The volunteer puppy raisers bring puppies into their homes for approximately 14 months and focus on house manners, socialization and basic obedience, and teach the puppies how to live and work with people.” All Guiding Eyes’s puppy raisers go through a pre-placement class prior to getting a puppy, she says. Once they have a puppy, they attend regular classes with other raisers in their area. “While raisers initially sign up to change the life of a person who is blind or visually impaired, they generally find their lives are changed as well,” Lemerise says. “The experience is so positive that more than 65 percent of our current raisers are repeat raisers.” The first step to being a Guiding Eyes raiser is to fill out a Puppy Raiser Application. Applicants should review the responsibilities to determine whether raising a puppy matches their time, commitment and interests. Puppy-raising classes are on Wednesday evenings at the Guiding Eyes Canine Development Center in Patterson and on Monday evenings in Westchester, in the Yorktown area. Pre-placement classes, designed to prepare volunteers for raising a puppy to become someone’s Guiding Eyes, are held at the Canine Development Center.

fter 15 years co-publishing the Natural Awakenings magazine serving Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties, Dana Boulanger and Marilee Burrell say they’re ready to pass the reins of the healthy-lifestyle magazine to new hands. “We’re seeking somebody, or a team like us, that’s passionate about health, wellness and being a conduit of positive possibilities in people’s lives,” Boulanger says. Natural Awakenings is part of a Florida-based family of some 50 magazines nationwide. Along with acquiring an up-and-running publication with an established local readership and advertising base, the new owner/ publisher will also have corporate support during and after the transition. “The right person or team will feel comfortable making connections with community leaders and organizations,” Boulanger says. “They’ll be passionate as well as business minded, self-motivated, organized and sales oriented. We’re a free magazine supported by our advertising partners, and we’ve been blessed to create many longtime partnerships. We’re seeking a highly motivated person or team who will carry the baton of community wellness forward for years to come.” A major benefit to publishing Natural Awakenings is job flexibility, Boulanger adds. Because publishers can work from home and make their own schedules, they can enjoy the work-life balance that the magazine promotes. “As a connector, I’ve enjoyed meeting local business owners who share my passion for wellness, many of whom have become friends,” she says. “Now I’m ready to help transition in the new owner or owners to carry on this beloved magazine and move it forward for future generations.”

For more info, visit GuidingEyes.org.

For more info, visit WakeUpNaturally.com/franchise.

Location: Earth Angels, 44 Saint Nicholas Rd., Wappingers Falls, NY. For more info, call 845.227.7297 (PAWS) or visit EarthAngelsVet.com. See ad, page 31.

Natural Awakenings Publishers Selling Westchester Edition

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Ayurveda Digital Lecture Series and Certification Courses with Dr. Kaushik

yurvedic and naturopathic physician Somesh N. Kaushik will continue his educational outreach throughout 2022 with ongoing free monthly digital lectures as well as certification courses in Ayurveda. Since opening his clinic in Cross River in 2016, Kaushik has offered free monthly educational lectures covering a variety of health issues, to increase awareness of Ayurveda’s role in health and well-being. “This year I will launch an ambitious new series that encompasses each of the body systems and Ayurveda’s role in addressing their disorders,” he says. “A different body system will be discussed each month, and the lectures will be offered twice to ensure that as many people as possible have the opportunity to receive the information.” Topics covered will include the immune, nervous, endocrine, respiratory, circulatory, skeletal, muscular, digestive, urinary, excretory, integumentary and reproductive systems. The lectures will be publicly available to anyone online through the Pawling Free Library (second Tuesday of the month) and the Desmond-Fish Library, which will broadcast throughout the entire Putnam County Library System (fourth Tuesday of the month). For calendar and registration information, visit PawlingFreeLibrary.org or DesmondFishLibrary.org. In addition, Kaushik will continue offering Ayurveda Health Counselor (CAHC) and Ayurveda Practitioner (CAP) certification courses. Contact him directly for more information. Location: Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Clinic, 792 Rte. 35, Cross River, NY. For more info, call 914.875.9088 (clinic M-F) or 646.670.6725 (telemedicine); email drkaushik@drkaushik.com; or visit DrKaushik.com. See ad, page 11. February 2022

health briefs

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Improve Sleep and Lower Anxiety with Black Cumin Oil Black cumin seeds that come from the flowering fennel plant (Nigella sativa) flavor cuisines from the Middle East to the Far East and have been used for centuries to treat chronic and infectious diseases. In a new study in the Journal of Herbal Medicine, Indian researchers report that 15 volunteers with insomnia that took 200 milligrams of black cumin oil after dinner for 28 days experienced significantly better sleep. They fell asleep sooner, slept longer and recorded increases of 82 percent in non-rapid eye movement sleep and 29 percent in rapid eye movement sleep. Stress and anxiety levels were also dramatically reduced.

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Two new studies suggest that the right probiotics can offer relief for the 85 percent of pregnant women with nausea and for the 25 percent of fussy newborns with colic. In the journal Nutrients, University of California, Davis researchers reported on a study in which 32 pregnant women that had nausea, vomiting and constipation took a probiotic capsule twice a day. The over-the-counter probiotics formula contained 10 billion live cultures, mainly Lactobacillus. After 12 days, the number of hours participants felt nauseated was reduced by 16 percent, and they vomited one-third fewer times. Constipation was also reduced. Quality of life markers such as fatigue, poor appetite and difficulty maintaining normal social activities also improved. Examining biomarkers in fecal samples, the researchers found the probiotics increased vitamin E and a bile salt enzyme that helps prevent vomiting and nausea. In a second study published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of Naples researchers explored whether a particular probiotic strain (Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis BB-12) could help soothe babies with colic, a common gastrointestinal disorder in the first three months of life that studies have linked to maternal postpartum depression, parental guilt and frustration, drug use and long-term behavioral and sleep problems. They found that the probiotic reduced the duration of daily crying by 50 to 80 percent in the 40 infants that received it once daily for 28 days, compared to a 32 percent reduction among 40 babies receiving a placebo. The probiotic also had beneficial effects on sleep duration and on stool frequency and consistency. It increased gut production of butyrate, which positively regulates intestinal transit time, pain perception, the gut-brain axis and inflammation.

In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, people were sitting around a lot more and getting depressed, report researchers from Iowa State University. Analyzing data between April and June 2020 from 3,000 participants throughout the country, they found that people that ordinarily met the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines of exercising 2.5 to five hours a week reported cutting back their exercise routines by 32 percent when pandemic restrictions kicked in. The same participants reported feeling more depressed, anxious and lonely. In a second study in the following months, people’s mental health generally improved as they adjusted to life’s new rhythms. “But for people whose sitting times stayed high, their depressive symptoms, on average, didn’t recover in the same way as everyone else’s,” says lead author Jacob Meyer, assistant professor of kinesiology. He suggests taking short walks before and after Zoom calls at home, as well as walking around the block before and after the workday to mimic the pre-pandemic commute.

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Keep Moving to Sidestep Depression

Try Probiotics to Lower Pregnancy Nausea and Soothe Fussy Babies

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global briefs

Almond Joy

Nut Milk Carries Hefty Environmental Burden To grow one orange requires 14 gallons of water, a cup of coffee 35 gallons, one potato 100 gallons, a glass of dairy milk 48 gallons and a half-cup of tofu 61 gallons. One almond (technically a seed, not a tree nut) needs about 3.2 gallons to reach maturity; almost 1,300 gallons are needed to grow a pound. The source of almond milk, although positioned as an eco-friendly alternative to cow’s milk, is usually treated with methoxyfenozide, which threatens honeybee health. With a global market of more than $5 billion, the beverage’s footprint is increasingly detrimental to the drought-plagued state of California. Walnuts, hazelnuts and pistachios consume as much water or more, but almonds are in higher demand. The “Eureka” state supplies 80 percent of the world’s almond supply, covering more than 1.5 million acres in the Central Valley. Water from ancient aquifers there is being pumped out for irrigation faster than it can be recharged. According to the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, almond orchards were treated with more pesticides than any other local crop in 2017. Harmful chemicals are sprayed year-round to combat ants, mites, leafrollers, peach twig borers and weeds. Also, fertilizer pollution can spike drinking water with hazardous nitrates. Instead, consumers can purchase milk that is packaged in sustainably sourced and recyclable materials and buy shelf-stable milk to conserve energy from refrigeration.

Super Shader

Solar Canopies Green Urban Parking Lots When large collections of photovoltaic panels are erected as solar farms on undeveloped land, they can harm underlying ecosystems. As an alternative, large parking lots make use of land that is already cleared and produce electricity close to where it’s needed. Plus, they can also shade the cars. A solar parking facility at Rutgers University, in Piscataway, New Jersey, boasts an output of eight megawatts of electricity. If Walmart converted all 3,571 of its U.S. super center lots, the total capacity would be 11.1 gigawatts of solar power, roughly equivalent to a dozen, large, coalfired power plants. Most solar installation presently occupy croplands, arid lands and grasslands, not rooftops or parking lots, according to a global inventory published in Nature. Building alternative power sources quickly is important to replace fossil fuels and avert catastrophic climate change, and the process is cheaper and easier to manage by building on undeveloped land than on rooftops or in parking lots. Ironically, putting solar facilities on undeveloped land is often not much better than building subdivisions there. Rebecca Hernandez, an ecologist at the University of California at Davis, notes that developers tend to bulldoze sites, removing all of the above-ground vegetation. That’s bad for insects and the birds that feed on them. The trend to cluster solar facilities in buffer zones around protected areas can confuse birds and other wildlife and complicate migratory corridors.

Mucky Luck

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Peat’s Potential to Forestall Climate Change Although peatlands are often disregarded as anaerobic wastelands, Christian Dunn, a wetlands scientist at Bangor University, in Wales, claims, “Peat is the superhero of the natural world.” Whether they are called moors, bogs, fens, mires, swamps or sloughs, the acidic, low-nutrient ecosystems are the most carbon-dense lands on the planet and can safely store twice as much carbon as all forests combined in one-tenth the landmass for 1,000 years. Climate scientists know the role oceans and forests play in storing carbon and are now coming to appreciate the power of peat and the need to preserve existing bogs and to restore those that have been damaged. On the flip side, carbon already locked up can be quickly released, hastening a warming climate. Because peatlands store an estimated 30 percent of sequestered carbon in 3 percent of the world’s land mass, climatologists call its potential discharge a “carbon bomb”. Human agricultural practices are at the heart of the problem, as about 15 percent of peat has already been lost worldwide. Farmers have been paid to convert peatlands with government tax breaks and cash subsidies. Indonesia, one of the world’s top five greenhouse gas emitters, is clearing peat for palm oil plantations, with farmers burning soil that can smolder for months. Britain, one of the first countries to focus on peat in in a strategy to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, has pledged more than $1 billion by 2025 on peat restoration, woodland creation and management. February 2022

kudos

local food

Maple Sugaring Kicks Off This Month

W FeedHV Uses Freezer Crisis to Help the Hungry

eedHV—a regional food rescue and harvest network that operates in seven Hudson Valley counties, including Dutchess and Putnam—has turned adversity into an opportunity to feed neighbors in need. In partnership with Scenic Hudson, it’s purchasing frozen products from local food distributor Hudson Harvest at a reduced cost and will donate them to nine local food-assistance programs. Administered by Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corporation (HVADC), FeedHV links donors of prepared but unserved food and fresh produce with nonprofits and food-assistance programs. Among the donors are restaurants, farms, food makers, stores, hospitals and universities. The food-assistance programs include food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters. Last fall several area small farmers were notified that their freezer storage facility in Columbia County would be closing, so they reached out to Hudson Harvest and to HVADC to find new cooling storage. HVADC coordinated the effort through FeedHV to help Hudson Harvest identify excess products in their freezers for distribution to food-assistance agencies. The FeedHV purchase, made possible by a donation from Scenic Hudson, allowed Harvest Hudson to free up approximately 15 pallets of space in its freezer facility in Athens, making room for 10 small farmers who were displaced by the closing of their prior facility. More than 4,550 pounds of locally produced frozen products—including turkey, goose, pork, salmon, beef, venison, lamb, baked goods, prepared rice, and vegetables and fruits—have been delivered to the receiving agencies. For more info about FeedHV, or to make a donation, visit FeedHV.org. 18

hen most of us think of maple sugaring, we think March. But the fun actually starts in February, out in the woods with tree tapping. In our area, most maple producers will begin tapping trees this month, and then next month, when the days begin warming up, the sap will really start to flow. So for anyone who wants to learn how to make maple sugar, now’s the time to sign up for a class or event. Spaces fill up quickly.

Learn Tree Tapping and Sugaring

Muscoot Farm, located at 51 Route 100, in Katonah, will get the sugaring season started on February 6, when individuals or families can go there to tap the maple trees. Preregistration is required. For anyone who would like to try this traditional Maple tap at Muscoot Farm craft at home, Muscoot is offering Sugaring 101 on February 12. During this class, which will take place at the farm’s sugar house, participants will learn the history of sugaring and how to practice the craft in their own backyard. Both these events are popular, so early registration is recommended. For more info, visit MuscootFarm.org.

Sugaring Open Houses

The Westchester Area Maple Open House is set for February 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Cross River. It will take place at the Trailside Nature Museum, located on the 4,400-acre Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. (For more info, visit FriendsOfTrailside.org.) That weekend, Trailside will be one of many nature center sugar houses that will be hosting demos and tastings for the public. Muscoot’s Sugaring Open House, for example, will take place February 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors are invited to stop by the sugar house to learn how maple sap is turned into maple syrup. No registration is required for either open house. Later in the month, Muscoot Farm is offering its annual maple sugaring tours as a private family experience. Tours are available February 27 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The cost is $20 for a family of four. Preregistration is required at MuscootFarm.org.

Maple Weekend 2022

The fun continues into next month with Maple Weekend 2022, which will actually take place two consecutive weekends: March 19-20 and March 26-27. During this annual spring event, hosted by members of the New York State Maple Producers’ Association, maple lovers can visit sugar houses at some 180 farms and museums across the state to take part in tours, samples and other activities. To see a list of participating locations, visit MapleWeekend.NYSMaple.com.

Plant Sale Pre-Order at Hilltop Hanover Farm Pre-order organically-grown vegetables, herbs, flowers and native plants February 1 through March 31 at Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown. Then select the pick-up day for the right time to plant in May. Info: HilltopHanoverFarm.org or email info@hilltophanoverfarm.org.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Eat Well and Be Well with

Foodie Guide CAFES CHAKRA BOWLS CAFÉ 33 Arlington Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 845.849.0399 chakraBowlsCafe.com

O2 LIVING SANCTUARY 792 Rt. 35, Cross River, NY 914.763.6320 O2livingsanctuary.com

GOOD CHOICE KITCHEN 147 Main St., Ossining, NY 914.266.3003 goodchoicekitchen.com

THE FREIGHT HOUSE CAFÉ

609 Route 6, Mahopac NY 845.628.1872 thefreighthousecafe.com

COFFEE COFFEE LABS ROASTERS

Order beans online/ship home 7 Main St., Tarrytown, NY 914.332.1479; coffeelabs.com

FARMERS’ MARKETS GOSSETT’S FARM MARKET

& Gossett Brothers Nursery 1202 Rt.35, South Salem, NY 914.763.3001; Gossettnursery.com

HUDSON VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

Greig Farm, 223 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook, NY 914.474.2404 Facebook.com/ HudsonValleyFarmersMarket.

Natural FOOD HUDSON VALLEY REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET Sundays, 10am-2pm 15 Mount Ebo Road South Brewster, NY

FARM STORE BONI-BEL FARM & COUNTRY STORE

Natural market & vocational program 301 Doansburg Rd, Brewster, NY 845.278.2060 greenchimneys.org/countrystore

Z FARMS ORGANIC Open Every Day 355 Poplar Hill Rd. Dover Plains, NY 917.319.6414 ZFarmsOrganic.com

FARMS FABLE: FROM FARM TO TABLE

1311 Kitchawan Rd, Ossining, NY Sat & Sun 9am-4pm FableFoods.com

HARVEST MOON FARM & ORCHARD

130 Hardscrabble Rd North Salem, NY 914.485.1210 HarvestMoonFarmAndOrchard.com

HILLTOP HANOVER FARM & ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER 1271 Hanover St, Yorktown Heights, NY 914.962.2368 HilltopHanoverFarm.org

THREE FEATHERS FARM

Grass-fed beef & eggs 371 Smith Ridge Rd, S. Salem 914.533.6529; threefeathers.farm

Falafel Burger with homemade pickled red onions, rice and hempseed tzatziki from Mindfull Meals

MARKETS BIG ROCK MARKET

Open 6 days a week 6031 RT 82,Stanfordville NY 845.868.3320 BigRockMarketNY.com

GREENS NATURAL FOODS Briarcliff Manor 97 North State Road Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510 914.800.9146 Eastchester 780 White Plains Rd. Scarsdale, NY 10583 914.874.5481 Mt. Kisco 666 Lexington Ave. Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 914.864.1274 Somers 57 Rte. 6. (in Baldwin Place) Somers, NY 10505 914.485.8093 GreensNaturalFoods.com

GREEN ORGANIC MARKET 275 S. Central Park Ave. Hartsdale, NY 914.437.5802 FB: GreenOrganicMarket

WHOLE FOODS MARKET 575 Boston Post Rd, Port Chester, NY 914.708.1985

1 Ridge Hill Rd, Yonkers, NY 914.378.8090 110 Bloomingdale Rd, White Plains, NY 914.288.1300

MEAL DELIVERY MINDFULL MEALS

Plant-Based, Gluten-Free Calorie and Macro Counted MindfullMealsDelivery.com

MICROGREENS TINY GREENS FARM

Microgreens, organically grown, local delivery. CSA. markets wholesale; tinygreensfarm.com

RESTAURANT BROOKLYN ORGANIC KITCHEN

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 890 South Lake Blvd. Mahopac, NY 845.621.2655 BOKmahopac.com

VEGAN SKINNY BUDDHA ORGANIC KITCHEN

159 Lexington Ave., Mt. Kisco 914.358.1666 MySkinnyBuddha.com

Find more local food info and resources on WakeUpNaturally.com

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conscious eating

Fermenting for Foodies Preserving Food and Traditions by April Thompson

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Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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f fermented food is a trend, it’s the oldest one on the planet. More and more people are rediscovering the time-honored foodways of fermentation to promote health, boost flavor and preserve the bounty of the seasons. “There is huge potential to use high-quality fermented foods to enhance our health and well-being,” says Sandor Katz, a so-called “fermentation revivalist”, in Liberty, Tennessee, and the author of several bestselling books on fermentation, including the newly released Sandor Katz’s Fermentation Journeys: Recipes, Techniques, and Traditions from Around the World. Katz caught the fermentation bug after moving from New York City to rural Tennessee in the 1990s and being faced with the “positive problem” of an overly plentiful garden to preserve. He’s since wandered the globe teaching and learning about fermentation traditions, from Korea’s spicy kimchi to Mexico’s funky pineapple tepache drink. Fermentation is defined as the chemical breakdown of a food by bacteria, yeasts or other microorganisms. An estimated one-third of all foods are fermented, including coffee, cured meats, cheese, condiments and chocolate. Pickles and yogurt are traditionally fermented through lactic acid bacteria, while beer and bread are typically fermented through yeast. Kombucha, an ancient tea drink, is made using a symbiotic culture of yeast and bacteria. Pascal Baudar, a Los Angeles writer, instructor and self-proclaimed “culinary alchemist,” turned to fermentation techniques to preserve the precious wild ingredients of the fleeting seasons. His books and workshops cover unusual

Fermentation transforms the nutrients in food in several ways, Katz explains. In a process known as predigestion, it breaks macronutrients down into more digestible forms (think proteins turned into amino acids) and renders minerals more bioavailable. Gluten, too, is broken down by fermentation, he says, as are potentially toxic compounds in foods such as cyanide and oxalic acid. The process also releases vitamins B and K and other micronutrients as metabolic byproducts. Fermentation reduces the short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and are prone to absorb water and ferment in the colon, causing gas and bloating. Found in wheat, beans and other foods, they can pose digestive problems for people with irritable bowel syndrome and other conditions, says Tayler Silfverduk, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in celiac disease. “The most profound nutritional benefit of fermentation is the live bacteria itself. You are ingesting a rich biodiversity of beneficial bacteria that can potentially improve immune function,” says Katz, an AIDS survivor who considers fermentation an important part of his healing process.

No Starter Required “There is nothing you can eat that can’t be fermented, but the easiest and safest place to begin is with vegetables,” which need no special equipment or a starter like sourdough, kefir or kombucha, says Katz. To make sauerkraut, for example, simply shred cabbage, lightly salt and season it, and submerge it in a jar under its own juices, “burping” it daily for a week to 10 days to release the fermentation gases. Katz and Baudar both like to debunk myths that fermenting foods is difficult or dangerous. “You don’t have to sterilize everything or have precise laboratory control conditions. People have been practicing fermentation for years, and they began before they knew bacteria was a thing. To the contrary, fermentation is a strategy for food safety,” says Katz. While yeast or mold can grow on the top layer that is exposed to oxygen, Katz says “a lot of sauerkraut is needlessly discarded. Most such growth is harmless and normal, and can be skimmed off the top.” Baudar, a University of California Master Food Preserver, has kept foods he’s fermented for up to three years and only once encountered mold. “You need to work with the ferment,” he says. “That means regularly burping it, then shaking or stirring to promote the acidity that prevents bad bacteria from taking hold.” “If it looks or tastes bad, throw it away,” he adds. “Some of my early experiments tasted horrible, but I just took my failures as learning and kept experimenting. The more you understand the

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

Fermented Pickled Carrot Sticks YIELD: 1 QUART-SIZE JAR OF PICKLES 2 sprigs fresh dill 1-2 cloves garlic 2 lb whole carrots 1 Tbsp sea salt 1-2 cups distilled water Wash and peel the skins of the whole carrots. Cut the peeled and washed carrots into carrot sticks. Peel and finely slice the garlic cloves. Wash and dry 2 sprigs of dill. In a wide-mouth, quart-size jar, pack in the carrot sticks. (Tilt the jar to locate more places to squeeze in the sticks.) Add in the sea salt, then the sliced garlic and sprigs of dill.

photo provided by Tayler Silfverduk RDN

Fermentation with Benefits

fermentation process, the more you can play with it creatively and push the envelope.”

Cover the ingredients with distilled water (Be sure to leave about an inch of free space from the waterline to the opening of the jar.) Place an airtight lid on the jar and let it sit for a week or until the carrots have reached desired taste. Make sure to burp the jar at least every two days while fermenting. Once the carrot sticks have reached their desired taste, place the jar in the fridge for storage. Enjoy. Notes: If using organic carrots, leave the skin on and just wash the carrots very well before chopping into snacking sticks. When burping the jar, use this time to check on fermentation to make sure it’s growing healthy. Look for bubbles on top of the water and along the water line. Seeing mold is a sign that good bacteria is struggling to start a culture and we may need to try again.

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culinary territory, like fermented and aged vegan cheeses from acorns and “seaweed” made from fermented broadleaf plantain, a common weed, using methods he’s studied and perfected. “I investigate new and lost flavors, and conserve them as gourmet foods through preservation,” he says.

Courtesy of Tayler Silfverduk, registered dietitian nutritionist. February 2022

The Heart-Mind Connection How Thoughts and Emotions Affect Our Heart Health by Ronica O’Hara

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

WakeUpNaturally.com

“D

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oes your wife show you her love?” In a study of 10,000 married men, this question turned out to be revelatory. Among men with high levels of anxiety, a whopping 93 percent that answered “No” developed anginarelated chest pains within five years—nearly twice the rate of those answering “Yes.” This 1976 Israeli study was one of the first to clearly document how emotions affect the physical heart. Today, the research is so vast and compelling that last year, the American Heart Association issued a statement urging that psychological factors be taken into account in cardiovascular care—which may result in doctors asking patients about depression and anxiety as well as testing for blood pressure and cholesterol levels. “What’s on your mind really does affect your heart,” says leading researcher and cardiologist Michael Miller, M.D., author of Heal Your Heart and director of the Center for Preventive Cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical System. “Our hearts require emotional health in order to maintain cardiovascular health.” Two emerging fields are probing the mind-heart connection: neurocardiology, which studies their neurological interplay; and behavioral cardiology, which examines how psychological and social factors lead to heart disease. Increasingly, researchers are documenting that the brain and the heart form an intricate feedback loop that works neurologically, biochemically and electromagnetically to optimize well-being. What hurts one—be it arteryclogging foods or angry outbursts—can hurt the other. What heals one—be it exercising or a good belly laugh—can heal the other. There’s good news in that, says Miller: “You can heal your heart by actively engaging in positive emotions each and every day.”

Unveiling the Heart’s Role

In Western medicine, the heart has been downplayed historically as a pump mechanistically taking orders from a bossy brain, but recently, the heart’s role is being reexamined: With 40,000 neurons, it sends more signals to the brain than it receives. As integrative cardiologist Mimi Guarneri, author of The Heart Speaks, puts it, “The heart is a multilayered, complex organ, possessing intelligence, memory and decision-making abilities independent from the mind.” The electromagnetic field it generates is about 100 times stronger than the brain’s magnetic range and can be detected up to three feet away from the body, report researchers at the pioneer-

ing HeartMath Institute, in Boulder Creek, California. They found that one person’s brain waves can synchronize to another person’s heart and two hearts can synchronize to each other, which may help explain why people are drawn to or repelled by each other. When the heart’s rhythm pattern becomes erratic and disordered during stress and negative emotions, they report, the neural signals traveling to the brain’s emotional centers also get disrupted, hindering clear thinking and reasoning—which may help explain why we make dubious decisions under stress.

The High Toll of Tough Emotions Although scientists debate whether emotions start in the brain, heart or from physical sensations elsewhere in the body, it’s clear through magnetic imaging technology that it’s the brain’s task to process and regulate emotions via the flow of neurotransmitters through the amygdala, hypothalamus, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and other brain regions. Emotions like anger, fear, grief and anxiety set off a cascade of reactions involving the hormone cortisol and proteins called cytokines, creating an inflammatory response that, if it becomes chronic, can promote the accumulation of plaque in the arteries that can become unstable and rupture, triggering blood clots that lead to strokes and heart attacks. Surveying 25,000 participants in 52 countries, the landmark INTERHEART Study in 2004 concluded that about 30 percent of heart attacks and strokes are due to psychological factors, and ongoing research supports this finding. DEPRESSION. Adults that are depressed are twice as likely to develop heart disease. In one study, moderate to severe depression quadrupled the death rate in heart failure patients. ANXIETY. Researchers have linked chronic anxiety with a 48 percent increased risk of cardiac-related death over 11 years. It has also been shown to be a risk factor for angina, heart attacks and ventricular arrhythmia. SHOCK. A sudden emotional or physical shock, like a death in the family or an earthquake, can trigger stress cardiomyopathy, known as broken heart syndrome, which resembles a heart attack. ANGER. An episode of intense fury—described as “body tense, clenching fists or teeth, ready to burst”—increases by 8.5 times the risk of a heart attack within the next two hours. LONELINESS. Being socially isolated and lonely is linked to a higher risk for cardiovascular death than hypertension and obesity—alarming information since more than 60 percent of Americans report feeling lonely, left out, poorly understood and lacking companionship, according to a 2020 survey.

Boosting Both Brain and Heart “There’s no damage caused by negative emotions that positive emotions can’t heal,” says Miller. A large body of research has shown that cardiovascular disease risk can be reduced by up to half with optimism, a sense of humor, forgiveness, social support, religious faith, vitality, gratitude, altruistic behavior, emotional flexibility and coping flexibility. People that are optimistic are February 2022

MINDFULLY LETTING GO. As studies with police officers, healthcare workers and firefighters have demonstrated, mindfulness training effectively lowers anxiety and depression, even for those in life-threatening situations. “To be present, ever acutely aware of our thoughts, emotions, feelings and how we are choosing to react is critical,” says cardiologist Cynthia Thaik, author of Your Vibrant Heart and the founder of the Holistic Heart Healing Center, in Los Angeles. “Once we are aware of our reaction, the ability to let go—of judgment, doubt, anger, resentment, fear, all our negative thoughts, emotions and feelings—is crucial to our healing process.”

less likely to be rehospitalized or die from heart disease, Finnish researchers report. “For optimal health, maximize the health of both brain and heart. For example, if you eat well and exercise, but are still stressed out, your heart will suffer. Conversely, if you are not stressed out, but overeat and do not exercise, your brain will suffer,” says Miller. Some heart-and-mind-healthy strategies include: DOING THE BASICS. Exercising a half-hour daily and eating a largely plant-based, Mediterranean-type diet that’s low in saturated fats has been found in numerous studies to lower the risk of both cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. Working with health practitioners to get blood pressure, blood sugar and

LAUGHING A LOT. Many of us have a chuckle deficit in our lives: The average 5-year-old laughs up to 300 times a day, the average adult only four. To lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, find ways to laugh long and hard—such as watching hilarious films or videos on YouTube or TikTok. Physiologically, the endorphins released by a hearty belly laugh bind to receptors that release nitric oxide, relaxing blood vessels.

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BREATHWORK. To bring the mind and heart into a healthy, coherent rhythmic pattern, the HeartMath Institute suggests heart-focused breathing, which involves imagining that we are breathing in through the heart as we inhale in a smooth, comfortable manner to the count of five or six, then breathing out for five or six counts while visualizing that the breath is flowing out of the heart.

inflammation levels under control, perhaps using supplements or medications, is also a key preventive step. GIVING AND GETTING HUGS. Oxytocin, the “love hormone” released from the pituitary gland during touching and hugging, lowers blood pressure and heart rate, and regenerates new heart tissue in animal studies. Proactively reaching out to family, friends, neighbors and co-workers can nurture affectionate ties, but if a human isn’t nearby, even hugging a teddy bear has been shown to release oxytocin—which may explain why 40 percent of U.S. adults sleep with stuffed animals. Owning a dog, but not necessarily a cat, makes us more likely to survive a heart attack, report researchers. 24

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

MEDITATION. People that practice meditation are significantly less likely to have a heart attack or stroke, perhaps because it has been shown to lower heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, oxygen consumption and cortisol levels. Alzheimer’s expert Dharma Singh Khalsa, author of Meditation as Medicine, advocates kirtan kriya, a 12-minute, daily meditation that includes chanting, finger movements and visualization. Research has demonstrated that it slows cognitive decline, eases depression and increases anti-aging telomerase activity at a cellular level by 43 percent in eight weeks. YOGA OR TAI CHI. In studies, yoga has been shown to lower inflammation and metabolic syndrome markers linked to heart disease and reduce atrial fibrillation episodes. The slow, graceful movements of tai chi reportedly lower blood pressure and strengthen the hearts of people with heart failure. MUSIC. Whether it involves listening, playing an instrument or singing, music has been shown to lower heart rate, reduce inflammation, enable longer exercise periods, ease anxiety after heart surgery and heart attacks, and help stroke victims regain the ability to speak. Choose music of whatever genre inspires joy and sing along for extra benefit, advises Miller. “If your partner is flummoxed by your enthusiasm for yodeling or your neighbor doesn’t exactly approve of your attempts at arias, kindly inform him or her it’s doctor’s orders,” he jokes in Heal Your Heart. Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@ gmail.com.

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February 2022

wise words

David Perlmutter on the Role of Uric Acid in Metabolic Health

photo by Peter Russell

by Sandra Yeyati

oard-certified neurologist David Perlmutter, M.D., has written five New York Times bestsellers, including Brain Wash, Grain Brain and Brain Maker. His latest book is Drop Acid: The Surprising New Science of Uric Acid—The Key to Losing Weight, Controlling Blood Sugar, and Achieving Extraordinary Health. A recipient of the Linus Pauling Award for his innovative approaches to neurological disorders and the National Nutritional Foods Association Clinician of the Year award, he has appeared on 20/20, CNN, Fox News, The Today Show, Oprah and CBS This Morning.

What is the most significant threat to our health and longevity today? Metabolic issues like high blood pressure, increased body fat and high blood sugar are at the root of our most pervasive health challenges. According to the World Health Organization, the number one cause of death on planet Earth are chronic degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s, coronary 26

artery disease, diabetes and cancer, all of which are fundamentally metabolic problems. Astoundingly, 88 percent of American adults have at least one component of what is called the metabolic syndrome, which means only 12 percent of Americans are metabolically healthy.

protect them during times of food scarcity. Today, high levels of uric acid are leading to elevated blood sugar, increased production and storage of fat, and high blood pressure. Everything we do that raises our uric acid puts us at risk for these profound metabolic threats to our health.

What is the basic premise of Drop Acid?

What foods and beverages should we reduce to control uric acid levels?

The book shows how uric acid elevation, previously thought of only in terms of gout, is the centerpiece for metabolic dysfunction and how you can easily bring your uric acid under control and regain metabolic health. You can test uric acid levels at your doctor’s office or with a home monitor that you can buy online, so this is a powerful new tool to help you be healthier.

What is the role of uric acid in our body? Having elevated uric acid was a survival mechanism for our hunter/gatherer, Paleolithic and primate ancestors because it allowed their bodies to make more fat to

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Alcohol, purines (the breakdown product of DNA and RNA in certain foods) and most importantly, fructose. In the 1900s, we consumed 10 to 15 grams of fructose per day, as opposed to over 70 grams today. The average American consumes 55 pounds of sugar each year. It’s absurd. High-fructose items like sodas, sauces and desserts are absolutely off the table, as is fruit juice, a powerful initiator of high uric acid. Fruit isn’t an issue. There may be five grams of fructose in an apple, and fruit contains vitamin C, which dramatically lowers uric acid, and fiber, which slows fructose release.

High-purine foods are organ meats, shellfish and small fish like anchovies and sardines. There are modest amounts of purines in red meat and chicken. I’m not saying these foods should be avoided; we want people to limit their consumption of chicken, fish and red meat to six ounces a day. With alcohol, the big issues are hard liquor and beer. Beer contains a very concentrated source of purines because it’s made with brewer’s yeast. Though wine contains alcohol, it has polyphenols that help to reduce uric acid, possibly by nurturing the gut bacteria. Research demonstrates that a glass or two of wine is associated with either no change or a minimal decrease in uric acid. Coffee seems to lower uric acid.

Will these lifestyle choices really make a difference? Patients are confronted with a mentality from marketing that you can do whatever the heck you want with your food and lifestyle, and then take a pill. I’ve been to dinner with diabetics who eat the creme brûlée then pop a pill. But pills don’t treat diabetes. They may lower blood sugar, but they won’t treat the underlying problem, which is that the body isn’t responding to insulin. The moment patients stop the drug, much to the joy of the drug maker, their blood sugars go right back up. You’ve only treated the smoke. You haven’t looked at the fire. This approach of lowering uric acid puts the fire out.

Are you hopeful that more people will make better lifestyle choices? I see a bit of a trend where people are looking for more empowerment. They have greater access to data with wearable devices like continuous glucose monitors or an Oura Ring to tell you how you sleep. By better understanding moment-to-moment how our choices affect certain measurable factors, we’re slowly getting into the driver’s seat and becoming empowered to keep ourselves healthy. Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@ gmail.com.

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healing ways

Truly Making Love Sex and Intimacy as a Healing Force

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by Marlaina Donato

ntimately connecting with a loved one is one of life’s most precious gifts, but it’s easy to lose sight of our innate sensual energy in the maze of the mundane. Through lovemaking, we can harness our life force, and according to abundant research, reduce the risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, manage pain and improve brain health. A significant correlation also exists between higher ejaculation frequency and a reduced risk for prostate cancer later in life, Boston University researchers report in European Urology. Making love is also good for boosting our natural immunity. College students that engaged in amorous activity once or twice a week—especially with long-term partners—had 30 percent higher levels

of the antibody immunoglobulin A in their saliva, concluded research by Wilkes University, in Pennsylvania.

Stripping Down to Basics A few lifestyle adjustments can do wonders for worn-out romance. Quality sleep itself can be a potent aphrodisiac. Women are more likely to be “in the mood” after a good night’s sleep, even with just an extra hour of shut-eye, according to a 2015 pilot study in The Journal of Sexual Medicine. Therapist Kurt Smith, clinical director of Guy Stuff Counseling and Coaching, in Roseville, California, advocates limiting phone use and engaging in nontechnological activities. “Phones have moved from being used as a communica-

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tion device to becoming many people’s connection to the rest of the world. Unfortunately, when used as such, they pose a threat to the emotional connection with our partners,” he says. “With all distractions removed, sit on the sofa, face each other and talk. This suggestion can make many people very uncomfortable, because they have no idea what they’d say to their partner. Actually, talking to your partner without a purpose other than to just listen and connect with each other has become rare.” An element of fun can go a long way in the quest to stay connected. “Approach your sex life like a science experiment or an art project instead of a math problem,” says Jamie Elizabeth Thompson, a holistic intimacy expert in Austin. “It’s an

Aphrodite’s Plate Feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin all contribute to the pleasure response, and sharing luscious food with a lover can be sensuous, as well as endorphin-friendly. Nutritious foods such as almonds, walnuts, asparagus and avocados support reproductive health, and a dessert of dark chocolate and honey-drizzled fruits like berries, figs and cherries can support libido in both women and men. Nixing excessive alcohol and sugar is also a good romantic investment.

Partnership as Sacred Deep relationship is only possible when we are willing to be vulnerable. “Porn is a drug that people unknowingly use to self-medicate and manage uncomfortable thoughts and emotions,” explains Smith. “Many men have no idea what they’re missing because they’ve never had an emotionally intimate relationship without the negative influence of porn. Porn makes sex self-focused, rather than what it’s supposed to be, which is the intimate connection of two people. Porn is selfish, rather than loving, giving and sharing with a partner.” Thompson attests that lovemaking can help us align with the divine, especially “when people have reverence for the power of their erotic life force. When people open their view of what sex is, it can become an act of worship.” Love prompts us to become more ourselves. “When erotic life force is flowing freely, the body is vital and the system is turned on. When channeled properly, this energy is highly creative,” muses Thompson. “It’s the fuel of your vehicle, the charge of your battery, and when you are full on life force, it organically overflows into service.”

Fun Homework for Couples From Kurt Smith: Remain connected by having “no-tech nights”. Try turning all devices off for an evening and find something to do together that doesn’t require them. This could be watching a movie, playing board games (yes, they still exist), going out for dessert, etc. It can be fun to brainstorm creative, low-cost ideas. From Jamie Elizabeth Thompson: Journal about why sex and intimacy are important to you, how it serves the rest of your life and what you see available through having a consistent, potent, deep, hot erotic life. Share this vision with your partner and keep it somewhere you see it often. Knowing why something is a priority makes you far more likely to follow through. Flirt with each other. Couples who flirt their way through their communication fight much less. Flirting creates a playful, fun flow of energy between you. It’s a way of keeping the fire stoked so you’re not completely restarting from cold coals every time you want to heat up the house.

Marlaina Donato is an author and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com. February 2022

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exploration with no one right answer. Attitude is important when it comes to sex because people can take it so seriously and place crippling pressure on having this fantasy Hollywood sex life.”

natural pet

Fostering Love Tips for First-Time Pet Foster Parents

or people that love cats and dogs but can’t adopt one—or one more—a heartwarming solution is to foster pets without homes that need a place to temporarily lay their heads and be loved until a forever home comes along. Fosters are needed when a shelter is filled to capacity or has too many large or old dogs, or orphaned puppies and kitties, for example, or when a rescue operation needs to quickly place shelter dogs that would otherwise be euthanized. As important and rewarding as the task of fostering is, it also comes with responsibilities and pitfalls worth considering in advance.

check out the possibilities.

In addition to Googling local animal shelters and rescue operations, online groups like PetFinder.com and PoorPawsRescue.com provide links to fostering options locally and nationwide. Visit local shelters to observe both how they treat their animals and how they interact with the fostering volunteers. Staff members can help with finding compatible pets and offer support when a foster situation doesn’t work for whatever reason. Also find out if the organization is involved every step of the way, including providing onsite veterinary care, or whether it relies heavily on the dedication and resources of foster parents.

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think about short-term fostering. To give it a try,

volunteer for a short-term commitment—a few days or weeks. Vacation time is one big reason rescue organizations look for people willing to provide short-term fostering because they need volunteers to fill in while their “regulars” are away.

be fair to other pets at home. Don’t get caught up in the

needs of a new kitten or puppy so much that the needs of other pets go unnoticed. Forever pets may even help out with newcomers. “In my home, puppies work well, as my dogs mother them and show them the ropes on how to be a good dog,” says Stasia Thompson, of Doylestown,

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by Karen Shaw Becker

Be a Guiding Eyes ‘Puppy Raiser’

Pennsylvania, a volunteer with Almost Home Dog Rescue and Poor Paws Rescue.

don’t stress about cost.

Food, litter, toys and even veterinary care is often offered to foster pet parents. In other cases, rescue centers may be struggling for support or getting slammed with natural disasters that create an influx of homeless pets, and foster parents may be asked to help with such items as crates and carriers, food and water bowls, collars, leashes and treats. “Homeowners who purchase items for their fosters can write them off as tax-deductible donations to the rescue organization, which is a great way to put your donation dollars to work,” says Karen Winkler, a volunteer with the Bucks County SPCA and the Animal Care & Control Team of Philadelphia.

it’s even fine to adopt a foster. It does happen sometimes;

foster parents discover that the dog or cat that came into their home supposedly for a while happened to fit in perfectly, and no one can imagine living without it. While that’s been called a “foster failure”, it’s anything but. Any time an animal with no home finds one filled with love and caring, even if it’s their so-called temporary foster placement, it’s a success. Pet parents know when the animal they love is forever.

Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. For more information, visit DrKarenBecker.com.

uiding Eyes for the Blind, with campuses in Putnam and Westchester, is accepting applications for new “puppy raisers,” volunteers who raise the puppies that will eventually become guide dogs. The volunteer raisers bring puppies into their homes for approximately 14 months and teach them how to live and work with people. Prior to getting a puppy, all raisers attend a pre-placement class at the Guiding Eyes Canine Development Center in Patterson. Once they have a puppy, they attend regular classes with other local raisers. Classes are offered Wednesday evenings in Putnam and Monday evenings in Westchester. For more info, visit GuidingEyes.org and see news brief on page 14.

don’t stress about placement. Possibly the most-asked

question about fostering a puppy or kitty is, “What if they never find a home for her?” Never fear; shelters and rescue groups are constantly putting out feelers. Foster parents can get in on the action by posting sweet, winsome or funny photos of the animal on social media and extolling its virtues to others when out in public with it. Thompson found new owners for her foster dogs by walking them around town wearing bright yellow “Adopt Me” vests.

it’s okay to fall in love with a foster pet. Many people

hesitate to foster pets because they’re afraid they’ll fall in love with a small ball of fur or a big pair of liquid eyes just begging to be adored. But that’s one of the risks of loving a creature with an open heart. “There is an amazing rush and deep sense of relief when you hear from the person who adopted your foster and you know the people found their true love in your foster,” says Winkler. “They know I helped save them. You can see it in their eyes.”

February 2022

inspiration

Living in the Frequency of Love

ost of us refer to love as an emotion, but in essence, love is a verb, a powerful call to action. When we remember its true nature, we can answer its call with our unique signature. Some brave souls like Martin Luther King, Jr. leap into uncharted territory with authentic truths, while others sprinkle their quiet corner of the world with small gestures of kindness. Telling someone how much they mean to us, holding the door for a stranger, asking a cashier how their day is going or welcoming a new neighbor is like handing out a piece of light. Added up at the end of the day or a lifetime, we create a mural of stars against the darkness. The frequency of love not only inspires, but heals. The energy of giving and receiving is literally wired into our neurochemistry, flooding our bloodstream with endorphins that combat systemic inflammation, influence mood, accelerate recovery and raise the pain threshold. We can freely stream waters of genuine kindness, love and affection, but if there is no waiting vessel for love’s outpouring, the potential of its power is diminished and incomplete. Our willingness and that of others to receive activates kindness, awakens what is dormant inside of us and quickens our capacity to thrive. Mother Teresa once said, “We can cure physical diseases with medicine, but the only cure for loneliness, despair and hopelessness is love.” With our willingness to gift one another with our full and authentic presence, all else is possible. Marlaina Donato is an author and visionary composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

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by Marlaina Donato

Intuitive & Healing Arts Monthly Circle to Use 2022 Mystical Moon Journal as Guide

errill Black, founder of the Temperance Center, and Leslie Lee, a longtime student of mysticism, astrology and herbalism, have co-written a new book, the 2022 Mystical Moon Journal, for those seeking insights, guidance and deeper connections to self. An outgrowth of the book’s creation is a new mystical moon journal circle, to be held via Zoom the last Friday of each month, from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. EST. “This book was a labor of love,” Black says. “We follow the new and full moons throughout the year. The book is filled with suggested rituals, movement, crystals, plants and herbs, along with colorful illustrations. We also offer prompts for the use of oracles and journaling.” The monthly circle will foster community, inspiration and reflection, using the Mystical Moon Journal as a guide, she says. Participants will share observations and insights from the past month, explore new rituals and practices to add to their practice, and create clear intentions and goals for the month ahead. The cost to register is $22. Advance registration is appreciated. “We will explore, share, do some practices and guide as we navigate through the year,” Black says. “Each month we weave astrology, oracle readings, ritual and community to deepen our practice, enhance our manifestations and encourage transformation. Our intention is to create a sacred, loving space where we can grow and evolve together.” To register, send $22 via Zelle to merrill@healyourlife2day.com. For more info about the journal, including monthly insights and suggestions, visit MysticalMoonJournal.com. For other questions, email hello@mysticalmoonjournal.com.

ASTROLOGY

ENERGY MEDICINE

Pam Cucinell Phone, online & in person 917.796.6026; InsightOasis.com

Bernadette Bloom, MI Energy Healing & Teacher 239.289.3744 theesotericbloom.com

Samyama Flowering Tree Spiritual Astrologer, Intuitive Mentor-Coach & Teacher Samyamallc.com

INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALING The Temperance Center Merrill Black, LCSW Reiki Master/Instructor Light Body Quantum Healings 914.793.2600 TheTemperanceCenter.com

INTUITIVE HEALING White Lotus Grace Healing/Dance/Readings 845.677.3517 Millbrook & Remote Whitelotusgrace.com

NEW AGE STORES Persephone’s Pearl Spiritual Development Center Candles, Books, Tarot, Jewelry Psychics, Crystals, Classes, etc. 1014B Main St., Peekskill @persephonespearlpeekskill 914.737.3460 PersephonesPearl.com The Soul Connection Shop Metaphysical Shop; Crystals, Jewelry, Reiki, Tarot, more at Universal Healing Arts Center Cortlandt Manor, 914.737.HEAL SoulConnectionShop.com Synchronicity Psychics/Crystals Candles/Tarot/Sage 1511 Route 22 Brewster @synchronicityny 845.363.1765 SynchronicityNY.com

PSYCHIC MEDIUM Angel Aura Spiritual Boutique 12 West Main St, Pawling, NY 845.493.0432 AngelAuraBoutique.com Celestial Touch Laura Schek, Psychic Medium, Reiki Master 7 Arch St, Pawling, NY 845.244.1767 celestialtouchllc.com

QIGONG In Balance Concepts Qigong. Tai Chi. Meditation 2505 Rt. 6, St. 108, Brewster 845.803.1992 Inbalancetaichi.com

REIKI Balancing 4 Life Anne Bentzen, Jikiden Reiki Certified Teacher/Practitioner 25 Broadway, Pleasantville, NY 914.588.4079 Balancing4Life.com Edit Babboni, CHC, RYT 200 Reiki Healing. Health Coaching. Yoga. 61 Lakeview Drive, Yorktown Heights, NY 917.721.2529 yoga.zengarden@gmail.com Laura DeToia In person and Long-Distance Reiki 914.645.7704 MerkabaPeace.com The Loving Lotus In person or remote sessions 914.557.8213; lovinglotus.org the.loving.lotusx3@gmail.com

TAROT CARD READINGS Purple Lotus Zen Michelle B Whitney Tarot & Oracle Readings, Medium, Energ Healing. By phone appt. 914.513.8398; Purplelotuszen.com

WELLNESS BOUTIQUE The Healing Collective NY 267A Central Ave. White Plains Shop & Heal: 914.236.HEAL thehealingcollectiveny.com

Discover more healing resources on WakeUpNaturally.com

Find local classes and workshops on pages 38-41. February 2022

fit body

POWER UP YOUR WORKOUTS a guide to protein powders and shakes by Maya Whitman

rotein, from the Greek proteios, means “primary”, which sums up its vital role in the human body. Its structure of amino acids enables myriad bodily functions, from repairing and building tissues to creating biochemical reactions that form enzymes, hormones and neurotransmitters, and maintaining pH and fluid balances. When we fortify our diet with digestible, nutritionally dense, non-meat protein, we also amp up our fitness efforts, enhance immunity and offset premature aging. Whole-food and plant-based proteins like pea, quinoa and chia seeds are also strong allies against Type 2 diabetes, research shows.

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The Protein Promise

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Whipping up a protein drink before or after a workout can foster muscle and joint integrity, and it can nourish soft tissue after injury. “Protein is vital for muscle synthesis. An individual who exercises at a higher intensity should focus on getting more protein in their diet to aid in better recovery,” says Hannah Davis, a personal trainer and owner of Body By Hannah, in Cleveland, Tennessee. “Protein is also important in overall nutrition to better balance hormones that control hunger, blood sugar and mood.” Dominic Kennedy, a Los Angeles trainer and the creator of The Dominic Effect health and fitness app, concurs. “Protein is considered a ‘macronutrient’, which means we typically need a large amount to stay healthy. Certain protein powders can be very healthy for you and help to build and repair tissue.” The average daily protein requirement for adults is 50 to 70 grams, but can be higher during times of stress, injury, illness, pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Vegan fitness and nutrition coach Karina Inkster, in Powell River, British Columbia, gives a nod to protein shakes for their convenience, but advises, “Just make sure you’re not relying just on protein powder to hit your daily protein.” She highlights the importance of diet diversity with other protein sources like tofu, tempeh, legumes, nutritional yeast, nuts and seeds.

Choosing Nutrition, Nixing Added Sugar Thirty years ago, heavily sweetened, incomplete protein powders seemed to be the only game in town. “Nowadays, we have countless plant-based options for protein powders—pea, rice, soy, hemp, pumpkin seed, quinoa … the list goes on,” says Inkster. “I like to stick to the basics, as I have a lot of serious food allergies. I go with brown rice and/or pea protein. Single ingredients, no flavors and no sweeteners.” For Kennedy, shakes and powders with sugar and dairy can contribute to bloating and store fat in the body, “which we need to work harder to burn off. I cannot stress the difference this has made in my body once I gave it up years ago. Not only do I look better physically, but most importantly, I feel better on the inside. Sugar is highly addictive and can also affect your mood.” Davis prefers sourcing her protein requirements from whole foods, but recommends whey-based powders when her clients want a reliable power shake and can tolerate it well. Protein-to-carbohydrate ratio is paramount, especially for those with weight-loss goals or blood sugar instability. Reading labels is important, especially when food intolerances are an issue. Kennedy recommends experimenting with various protein sources. “If you are using whey protein and having trouble digesting it, it may just be a lactose intolerance. Trying one that is plant-based could be a game-changer.” Among Inkster’s clients, brown rice and pea protein powders score high for digestibility and assimilation.

Fortifying Additions From antioxidant-rich pomegranate powder to blood-sugar-supportive monk fruit and adrenal- and thyroid-nourishing maca, nutritional extras abound. However, Inkster notes that supplemental products marketed as superfoods, including collagen, do not necessarily pack a powerful punch to an already nutrientdense diet. “When we ingest collagen or a vegan alternative, this protein gets broken down into amino acids in the exact same way as any other protein we eat.” Kennedy points to super-green and pomegranate powders as ways to help the body combat chronic disease. “It’s a great way to get more greens and vegetables and in turn, promote a healthy immune system. We could all use more of that.” Davis reminds us that one person’s nutritional ally can be another’s bane. “Supplementation is very personal. I always encourage focusing on a whole foods diet that includes a lot of variety to create a micronutrient balance in the body and then experiment with some supplements to see how they may help.” Maya Whitman writes about natural health and living a more beautiful life. Connect at Ekstasis28@gmail.com. February 2022

Guide to Protein Powders Protein supplementation is an $18 billion global industry, so sifting through options for our own lifestyle and constitution can be daunting. These descriptions of protein powder sources may help: CHIA SEED : vegan and naturally gluten-free; heart-healthy, supports bone health and enhances insulin sensitivity; supports healthy weight loss due to fiber content; natural source of calcium (average protein percentage: 12 to 16 grams per scoop) EGG WHITE: lowers risk of cardiovascular disease and lowers blood pressure; improves muscle repair; cholesterol-free (average protein percentage: 25 grams per scoop) HEMP SEED: vegan and naturally gluten-free; easily digestible, nutrient-dense protein containing all essential amino acids; helpful in reducing inflammation and contains healthy fats and antioxidants (average protein percentage: 15 to 20 grams per scoop)

Websites starting at $375

NON-GMO PEA: vegan and naturally gluten-free; builds muscle mass and improves tone; contains all essential amino acids; promotes satiety and a natural source of iron (average protein percentage: 20 to 25 grams per scoop)

Online Advertising on Big Brand Websites ►Custom Targeting ►Hyper-local Geo-targeting ►High Click Thru Rates ►Monthly Reporting ►Results!

Easy & Effective Learn more. Call 845-593-0065. Digital Connection NY

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ORGANIC BROWN RICE: vegan and naturally gluten-free; aids in muscle recovery, helps to burn fat (average protein percentage: 25 grams per scoop) PUMPKIN SEED: vegan and naturally gluten-free; alkalizing and high in zinc; lowers risk of certain cancers and improves reproductive and intestinal health (average protein percentage: 22 to 35 grams per scoop) WHEY (COW- OR GOAT-SOURCED): builds muscle mass via anabolic hormones like insulin; goat whey offers high nutrition and protein with fewer sensitivities than cow’s milk (average protein percentage: 25 to 30 grams per scoop)

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natural awakenings

NETWORK

Yoga in the Adirondacks Offers Spring Retreat

oga in the Adirondacks (YitA)—a yoga shala located at The Divine Acres, a�� private sustainable family farm in the�� Adirondack State Park—will host a spring retreat from March 18 to 20. The retreat theme is Spring Renewal, says YitA’s owner and yoga instructor Rhodella Hughes. The weekend retreat is designed to “empower the self with the full worm moon and first day of spring with our vernal equinox,” says Hughes, a 500-hour certified yoga teacher. “It’s a weekend immersion to awaken the spirit to the beautiful you.” YitA’s seasonal retreats consist of daily yoga, meditation, essential oils, journaling, mindful dialogue, hiking or snowshoeing (weather permitRetreat participants at YitA ting) and a theme. “As we flow with the time, our retreats shift, with each one staying aligned to the season,” Hughes says. The Spring Renewal retreat will take place in YitA’s fully renovated 1905 farmhouse in Bakers Mills. The house�� has �� four bedrooms, each with double occupancy, and two full bathrooms. It also has a lobby, a meditation room, a facilitators room, an eat-in country kitchen, and a front porch with additional dining-living space with full glass picture windows and scenic mountain views. Accommodations and farm-to-table meals are included in the cost. YitA also offers its seasonal retreats to participants without accommodations. Location: Yoga in the Adirondacks (YitA) at the Divine Acres, 2 Coulter Rd., Bakers Mills, NY. For more info, call 518.251.3015, email rhodella@yogaintheadirondacks.com or visit YogaInTheAdirondacks.com.

QIGONG

YOGA STUDIOS

Dutchess County Empowered By Nature Lorraine Hughes 845.416.4598 EmpoweredByNature.net

ARMONK

In Balance Concepts Qigong. Tai Chi. Meditation 2505 Rt. 6, St. 108, Brewster 845.803.1992 Inbalancetaichi.com

TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA Finding Peace Within 420 S. Riverside Ave. Box #223 914.281.2225 visit: tinyurl.com/d96atbuw

YOGA ASSOCIATIONS Yoga Society of New York Ananda Ashram Monroe, NY 845.782.5575 anandaashram.org Yoga Teachers Association Workshops 2nd Sat. 1:30 pm Club Fit, Briarcliff Manor, NY and via Zoom yta_communications@ytayoga.com ytayoga.com

YOGA RETREATS Yoga in the Adirondacks, LLC 2 Coulter Rd, Bakers Mills, NY 518.251.3015;914.556.8258 yogaintheadirondacks.com

YogaShine Kripalu, Mat, Chair, Therapy 914.769.8745, yogashine.com Via ZOOM until further notice

CORTLANDT MANOR YOGA by Karen Universal Healing Arts 4 Crestview Ave. 914.737.4325 UniversalHealingArts.com

CROSS RIVER O2 Living Sanctuary 792 Rt. 35 914.763.6320 O2livingsanctuary.com

DOBBS FERRY Sacred Spirit Yoga & Healing Arts Center 343 Broadway (on campus of South Presbyterian Church) sacredspirityogacenter.org

MAHOPAC Luna Power Yoga Move. Sweat & Breathe 54 Miller Rd., Ste. 4 845.276.4619; lunapoweryoga.com Putnam Yoga 30 Tomahawk Street Baldwin Place, Mahopac 845.494.8118 PutnamYoga.com

SOMERS Zen Garden Health Coaching & Yoga Edit Babboni; CHC, RYT 200 61 Lakeview Dr., Yorktown Heights, NY 917.721.2529 yoga.zengarden@gmail.com

Find & post classes and workshops online: WakeUpNaturally.com/calendar February 2022

calendar of events Please call ahead to confirm times and dates. Pre-register early to insure events will have a minimum number to take place. To place a calendar listing, email us before February 12 (for the March issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Email marilee@wakeupnaturally.com for guidelines on how to submit listings. No phone calls please.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Teatown’s 18th Annual Hudson River EagleFest – 2/4-2/6. Three-day event to celebrating bald eagles during their annual winter migration. In-person programs at Teatown, guided bird walks at Croton Point Park and a series of engaging virtual presentations. Info: Teatown.org/events/eaglefest. Learn How To Read The Tarot – 4-5:30pm. New Zoom class. Dive into the magic of the Tarot. Major and Minor Arcana, readings, spreads. $30 or $175/6 classes. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325. UniversalHealingArts.com.

Tomato seedlings at Hilltop Hanover Farm. See February 1.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Hilltop Hanover Farm Plant Sale Pre-Order –12-5pm. Through 3/31. Pre-order vegetables, herbs, flowers and native plants. Reserve favorite plants and seedlings and select a pick-up date at the right time for planting. Pick up in May. Info: HilltopHanoverFarm.org.

Messages From The Masters & Beyond Meditation Group – 7:15-8:15pm. With Merrill Black, LCSW/Reiki Master. Unique theme, guided messages for meditation and group discussion. Virtually via Zoom. $20. Info: 914.793.2600; TheTemperanceCenter.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Invasive Plant Removal – 1-2:30pm. Help remove invasive plants and begin the restoration of native habitats. Tools and equipment are provided. Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary. Info: Events.westchestergov.com.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 The Nervous System: Its Connection to Whole body Functionality – 7-8pm. With Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician. Free online lecture through the Pawling Free Library. Register with library: 845.855.3444 or PawlingFreeLibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Attraction Manifestation Vision Board – 5:307:30pm. Vision questing and creating individual love attraction and manifestation vision board with Celestine. Includes personal soul message reading with Rose Christmas and materials. $36 preregistration/$40 at class. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. 914.737.3460. RSVP on events page of PersephonesPearl.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Winter Fairy Houses – 11am-12pm. Participants use natural materials, learn what living things need to survive and build tiny houses of their own design. $15 per family. Teatown. 1600 Spring Valley Rd. Info: teatown.org.

Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6:30pm. Quit with Quinn addiction cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q&A re smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Via Zoom. Garrison and Manhattan and on Zoom. Info: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Empowered Living for a New Age – 1-3pm. Part 2: Limiting beliefs, overcoming triggers, the heartbrain connection, healthy boundaries, the power of feelings for manifestation with Anne Bentzen, Jikiden Reiki practitioner. $45. Suite 101, 25 Broadway, Pleasantville. Register: 914.588.4079. Balancing4life.com.

Crystal Workshop – 5:30-7pm. The next in series on manifesting crystal energy and building a Crystal Grid. Lead by Theresa spiritualist and 30 years crystal expert. $36 pre-registration/$40 at class. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. 914.737.3460. RSVP on events page of PersephonesPearl.com.

Restorative Yoga & Meditation Class – 7-9pm. Rona Levine, advanced yoga teacher helps reduce stress on mind and body with yoga postures, breathing and meditation. $45. Balancing 4 Life, Suite 101, 25 Broadway, Pleasantville. Register: 914.588.4079. Balancing4life.com.

Teatown Birds of Prey – 11am-12pm. With environmental educator Elissa Schilmeister. Meet and learn about owls, falcons, hawks, and vultures. $15. In-person program at Teatown. 1600 Spring Valley Rd. Info: teatown.org.

Open Barn at Stony Kill Farm. See February 6.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Open Barn at Stony Kill Farm – 11am-1pm. Every Saturday & Sunday through November. Bundle up, enjoy a visit with the animals, and chat with the volunteer barn guides. Free. Masks required. No appointment necessary. Info: stonykill.org.

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Valentine’s Partners Yoga – 2-3pm. With Chloe. All-levels, Vinyasa Partner Yoga class, where one will flow and connect with their partner! Variations offered for singles. $15/singles; $20/ partners. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. 914.737.3460. RSVP on events page of PersephonesPearl.com. Gardening Under Lights – 2-3pm. Learn how to grow plants using artificial lights. Program takes place in the Shop at Lasdon building. $10/$15. Lasdon Park, 2610 Amawalk Rd, Rt. 35, Katonah. Info: 914.864.7264 or lasdonpark.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16

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Watching and Counting Birds is Fun: Tips for the Great Backyard Bird Count – 2pm. Brush up on bird ID, unlock the mystery of bird songs, and practice counting birds no matter how large the flock or busy the feeder. Free webinar. Register from BirdCount.org site. Goddess Workshop: Air Goddesses – 5:30-7pm. Next in series on understanding the many faces of the Air Mother Goddesses and directing that energy for higher vibrational development. $36 preregistration/$40 at class. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. 914.737.3460. RSVP on events page of PersephonesPearl.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Great Backyard Bird Count – 2/18-2/21. Participants are invited to spend time in their favorite place watching and counting as many birds as they can find and reporting them. These observations help scientists better understand global bird populations. Info: BirdCount.org. Messages From The Masters & Beyond Meditation Group – 7:15-8:15pm. With Merrill Black, LCSW/Reiki Master. Unique theme, guided messages for meditation and group discussion. Virtually via Zoom. $20. Info: 914.793.2600; TheTemperanceCenter.com.

Counting birds. See February 16 & 18. Westchester Area Maple Open House Weekend – 10am-3pm. Trailside and other nature center sugarhouses are open to the public for sugaring demos and tastings. Trailside Nature Museum, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Cross River. Info: friendsoftrailside.org events page; 914.864.7322.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 The Nervous System: Its Connection to Whole body Functionality – 7-8pm. With Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician. Free online lecture through the Desmond-Fish Public Library, Garrison through Crowdcast. Register with library: 845.424.3020 or register on their website: DesmondFishLibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Sugar House at Muscoot Farm. See February 19.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Sugaring Open House – 10am-3pm. Sugaring season is underway at Muscoot. Stop by the sugar house to learn about how maple sap is turned into maple syrup. No registration is required. Muscoot Farm. 51 Rt. 100, Katonah, Info: MuscootFarm.org. Victorian Séance – 12-2pm. Join medium, John, at The Pearl for a chance to connect with loved ones and spirit guides to receive spirit message from across the veil. $25/pre-registration or $30 at class. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. 914.737.3460. RSVP on events page of PersephonesPearl.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Open Portal Day Shamanic Ceremony – 2-6pm. With Mojan Javadi Clarke. Shamanic ceremony, Rite of Passage, to mark the transition to 2022. Shamanic journey, fire ceremony, with medicinal music and refreshments. $222. Yima Healing, Putnam Valley. Register: 914.771.1694. Info: YimaHealing.com.

Rose’s Angel Workshop 5:30-7pm. Workshop series on working with Angels. Each month Rose Christmas will deep dive into a particular group of angels. $36 pre-registration/$40 at class. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. 914.737.3460. RSVP on events page of PersephonesPearl.com. Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6:30pm. Quit with Quinn addiction cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q&A re smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Via Zoom. Garrison and Manhattan and on Zoom. Info: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Jikiden Reiki Advanced Okuden Certificate Class – 10am-6pm. Jan Mizushima, Shihan teaches 1 day seminar for psychological treatment distant Reiki, shirushi symbols, 2 Reiki activations, supervised practice and more. Prerequisite: Jikiden Reiki Shoden. $400 or $100 review. Suite 101, 25 Broadway, Pleasantville. Info: 914.588.4079; Balancing4life.com. Transformational Guided Meditation –7-8pm. Identify and overcome blocks to happiness and transform limiting beliefs and become self empowered. $25 or $100/sessions. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325. UniversalHealingArts.com. Winter Tracks and Trails – 1-2:30pm. Hike in the park to search for telltale tracks and signs of winter inhabitants. Cold-weather clothing and footwear are required. Moderate difficulty; ages 6 and up; meet at RV Park entrance. Croton Point Park, Croton-OnHudson. Info: parks.westchestergov.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Winter Wellness Expo 2022 – 10am-5pm. Akasha’s Journey and the Hudson Valley Holistic Market host this free event which will feature holistic vendors, readers and healing practitioners. Comfort Suites Hotel and Banquets, 835 Rte. 52, Fishkill. Info: 845.244.0844 or HudsonValleyHolisticMarket.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25

FRIDAY, MARCH 4

Mystical Moon Monthly Book Circle – 7:158:30pm. Monthly gathering of community, inspiration, reflection, oracles, astrology and rituals using the 2022 Mystical Moon Journal as a guide. With Merrill Black and Leslie Lee. Virtually via Zoom. $22. 914.793.2600; mysticalmoonjournal.com.

Gather Love, Give Love Retreat – 5pm. FridaySunday. Weekend retreat for women with Kacey Morabito Grean, co-host of “Mike & Kacey in the Morning.” Panel of experts present an uplifting weekend. $285, all inclusive. The Mariandale Retreat Center, 299 North Highland Ave., Ossining. Info/register: Mariandale.org.

Find or post classes and events on our website: WakeUpNaturally.com/ calendar

February 2022

on going events

thursday

Ongoing Calendar listings must be resent quarterly for our January, April, July & October editions. Email listings to Marlee@WakeUpNaturally.com

sunday Hudson Valley Farmers Market- 10am-3pm. Year round. A one stop shop farmers market with fresh Hudson Valley products. 227 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook. Info: GreigFarm.com; 845.758.1234. Sundays at 11 – 11am.2nd Sundays. Zoom call for women to share healthy ideas. Free, donations accepted. Info: Kacey.co.

monday Virtual YogaShine for Adults – 9-10:30am. Kripalu-based, gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, developing consciousness, curiosity, and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class free. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitation: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com. Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 9:30-10:30am. Online & inperson. Yoga poses designed for strength and flexibility are incorporated as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com. Reiki Sync –5-6pm. With Rose Christmas. Receive, restore, enlighten, heal and enjoy the multi modality energy exchange with others in Rose’s unique cross dimensional class. Donations accepted. Free. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill RSVP: 914.737.3460;.persephonespearl.com. Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 7pm. Online & in-person. Class incorporates yoga poses that are designed for strength and flexibility, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com. Sound Bath Healing Meditation – 7pm. Join Marissa Dinki and relax with Crystal Singing Bowls, and other healing frequencies plus Songs of All Love. $20 or $75/4 class. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325. UniversalHealingArts.com.

tuesday Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 9:30am. Online & in-person. Class incorporates yoga poses that are designed for strength and flexibility, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com.

Green Street Radio – 10am. With Patti and Doug Wood. Environmental news, analysis and sciencebased information. Info: greenstreetradio.com. 99.5 FM and WBAI.org. Tai Chi & Qigong with Sifu Gary Renza – 7pm. 30 years’ experience. Cultivate ‘lifeforce’ energy, strengthen body, mind and spirit and improve overall health. $20/drop in. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325. UniversalHealingArts.com. Power Yoga – 7:30-8:30pm. In person only class. Flow based practice calling on power and strength. Some yoga experience is required. 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com. Breath, Relax & Slow Flow Yoga – 7:30-8:45 pm. Zoom. With Jo-Anne Salomone, CYT. A great slow flow with breath movement and deep relaxation. Open level. $12. Contact Jo-Anne 917.364.1871. Info: thetemperancecenter.com.

wednesday Yoga with Karen Shaw – 9am. Increase blood flow, warm muscles, build strength through pose holds. Increase flexibility, manage stress. $100/10 class or $15/Drop in. Universal Healing Arts, 4 Crestview Ave., Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325. UniversalHealingArts.com. Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 9:30am. Online & in-person. Class incorporates yoga poses that are designed for strength and flexibility, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com. Yoga & Fitness – 6pm & 7:30pm.�� Full-body workout that strengthens and lengthens muscles. Enjoy better joint health and longevity with less pain. $20/ Drop in. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325. UniversalHealingArts.com. Virtual YogaShine for Adults – 7-8:30pm. Kripalu-based, gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, developing consciousness, curiosity, and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class free. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitation: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com. Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 7pm. Online & in-person. Class incorporates yoga poses that are designed for strength and flexibility, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

WakeUpNaturally.com

All-level Yoga Class – 9:30am. Amenia Yoga - a Place for Wellness has all-level yoga classes. Instudio classes for everybody. 18 Old North Road in Amenia. Info: Sarah Wallace 646.401.4188, ameniayoga.com. Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 9:30am. Online & in-person. Class incorporates yoga poses that are designed for strength and flexibility, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com. Vi r t u a l Yo g a S h i n e f o r P re - Te e n s a n d Teens – 5-6pm. Gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, Kripalu-based , developing consciousness, curiosity, strength, and compassion. Individual attention. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitation: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com. Reiki Healing Circle – 5:30-6:30pm. With Laura DeToia. Try reiki for the first time or just enjoy it’s universal healing energies in a group. Free. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. PersephonesPearl.com. Please RSVP: 914.737.3460. Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 7pm. Online & in-person. Class incorporates yoga poses that are designed for strength and flexibility, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com. Anam Cara Meditation Foundation evening Meditation – 7:15-8:30pm. Anam Cara Meditation Foundation Thursday evening meditation sessions live via Zoom. Free, everyone is welcome. Info: anamcarameditation.org for Zoom link.

friday Yoga with Karen Shaw – 9am. Increase blood flow, warm muscles, build strength through pose holds. Increase flexibility, manage stress. $100/10 class or $15/Drop in. Universal Healing Arts, 4 Crestview Ave., Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325. UniversalHealingArts.com. Gentle/Moderate Kripalu-based Yoga – 9:3011am. In-person and virtual. With Chris Glover, Gentle, nurturing, yet strengthening. Develops a calm nervous system and embodied awareness thru compassionate self-observation. Info: sacredspirityogacenter.org. Putnam Yoga Level 1 to Level 2 Classes (w/ modifications) – 9:30am. Online and in-person. Fun Friday Vinyasa Flow. Class incorporates yoga poses that are designed for strength and flexibility, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com. Virtual Chair YogaShine – 10-11am. Super gentle, for senior adults and adults with special needs/health and recovery concerns – gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heartcentered, Kripalu-based, developing curiosity, flexibility and compassion. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitation: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com.

classifieds

planetwatch

Email Dana-NA@WakeUpNaturally.com to place a listing, BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY MAGAZINE FRANCHISE – Are you passionate about living a healthy lifestyle, and do you believe in supporting local businesses that share that passion? Do you love connecting with likeminded people in person, on the phone and online? Have you dreamed about owning your own home-based franchise? Natural Awakenings Westchester-Putnam-Dutchess is for sale—to the right person. Longtime publishers Dana Boulanger and Marilee Burrell are seeking someone as passionate as they are to pass the baton to. Visit WakeupNaturally.com/franchise to learn more.

HELP WANTED WORK FROM HOME FT/PT – Is 2022 the year to be a part of something big. Be at the intersection of natural health and wellness, and the booming work from home e-commerce industry in a positive community. Cindy Rosenbaum of Rosenbaum Wellness 914.806.6559.

saturday Yoga Teachers Association Workshops – 2nd Sat. Open to yoga teachers and students, members and nonmembers. Club Fit, 584 N State Rd, Briarcliff Manor and/or via Zoom. Info: ytayoga.com. Larchmont Winter 2022 Farmers Market – 9am-1pm, 1/8-4/16. Metro North upper lot Chatsworth Av/Myrtle Blvd, Larchmont. Info/ updates: DownToEarthMarkets.com. Ossining Farmers Market – 9am-1pm. YearRound. Near the corner of Spring and Main Streets. Info/updates: downtoearthmarkets.com. Intermediate Kripalu-based Yoga – 9:1510:30am. With Kathleen Hinge. In-person and virtual. For more experienced practitioners who desire more of a challenge. Be guided through more advanced postures, and invited to hold poses longer and explore personal variations. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org. Hudson Valley Farmers Market- 10am-3pm. Year round. A one stop shop farmers market with fresh Hudson Valley products. 227 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook. Info: GreigFarm.com; 845.758.1234. Beginner Kripalu-based Yoga – 10:45am-12pm. In-person and virtual. With Kathleen Hinge. Learn gentle pose sequences, and embodied awareness. Suitable for new students and those with physical limitations or recovering from injury. Info: sacredspirityogacenter.org. Gentle Hatha Yoga – 12:30-1:30pm. In-person and virtual. A Yoga style based in Kripalu tradition, focusing on Yoga postures, mindful awareness and self care. Suitable for all levels. Info: Christine Dodge 845.494.8118; 30 Tomahawk St, Baldwin Place. putnamyoga.com.

February 2022 Astrology with Pamela Cucinell Clean Slate

Mercury is retrograde until February 3—if possible, delay contracts or big electronics purchases. The February 1 Aquarius new moon enables contemplation for action ahead. Opportunities presented on Groundhog Day / Imbolc are worth a second look. Mercury direct on February 3 ignites possibilities and investment inspiration. Hard truths on February 4 demand allegiance and commitment to what matters. Morning decisions February 5 facilitate a clear path.

Work with It

Curb stress February 6 through an afternoon workout or walk. Body care and therapies produce exponential results February 7. Keep alert February 8 for powerful energy to sidestep or harness situations. February 9-10 conversations can make you dizzy or jazzed; meditation and martial arts anchor and displace confusion while inspiration comes through dreams. A void-of-course moon most of February 11 encourages cleanup: Focus on projects already in motion and stay in your lane.

Fill Your Heart

Some of us feel acute sensitivity February 12; comfort from a meal and/or cozy environment restores. Creative peaks on February 13 invite productivity in any art that heals, stimulates or transforms. A playful and romantic February 14 sends a message for self-love that overflows to others. The pace quickens February 15 for

productivity with the right companions. The Leo full moon February 16 triggers insight for obtainment of a goal. High productivity February 17 solves puzzles and plows through tasks.

Conscious Communication

Morning meditation leads to sharp focus February 18. If wounds and grievances open February 19-20, communication, though difficult, helps; calm reactions and heighten listening skills. Breakthroughs and discoveries February 21 deepen knowledge. Pursue objectives February 22, whether work or romance. An outdoor activity strengthens convictions February 23.

Practice Nimble Realignment

Plans can change with an out-of-the-blue disclosure February 24. Ambition ramps up as of afternoon February 25 to accomplish tasks big and small. The momentum continues February 26. Gather your thoughts the morning of February 27, and by midafternoon enjoy another pursuit of fruitful endeavors. An upset or surprise in the morning on February 28 needn’t derail your agenda; use it as fresh perspective. Pamela Cucinell offers a comprehensive forecast of 2022 at InsightOasis.com. Her weekly podcast can be found at ActiveSpirituality.Life. For guidance, validation and spiritual insight with a practical twist, contact her at 917.796.6026 or pamela@ insightoasis.com to schedule a one-time or ongoing sessions. See ad page 32. February 2022

community resource directory Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Dana-NA@WakeUpNaturally.com to request our media kit.

ACCOUNTING/TAX SERVICES STERNBACH & ROSE, CPAS 115 E. Stevens Ave, Suite 100 Valhalla, NY 10595 914.940.4449; sandrcpa.com

Our goal is to help people have less anxiety about managing their finances, to maximize their income and run their businesses better. Giving people a stronger financial foundation can absolutely contribute to a better quality of life.

PERLOVE ACUPUNCTURE+WELLNESS 111 N Central Ave, Ste 270, Hartsdale 27 Radio Cir Dr. #100, Mt. Kisco 914.200.3343; PerloveAcupuncture.com

L e t ’s r e s t o r e y o u r h e a l t h together! Personalized treatment plans promote healing through acupuncture, Chinese herbs, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, and Qi Gong. I treat pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, digestive and skin issues, pre/post-surgical care, gynecological issues, facial rejuvenation and more.

ASTROLOGY ASTROLOGY INSIGHT

Pamela Cucinell NCGR PAA 917.796.6026; InsightOasis.com Astrology & Tarot with spiritual perspective and a practical twist. Find your way to flow instead of fight; economy of action leads to a beautiful life. Skype, Zoom and phone. See ad pg 32.

SAMYAMA FLOWERING TREE

ACUPUNCTURE MARIA GORENS, LAC

25 years’ experience. Garrison, NY 917.453.9845; FB Instagram Specializing on helping to control and improve side effects from chemo-radiation therapy and surgery. Acupuncture helps to relieve your neck, shoulder and low back pain. Acupuncture will help to improve your sleep, digestion, boosts immunity, reduce anxiety and depression. Cosmetic acupuncture is available.

ADDICTION CESSATION QUIT WITH QUINN

Midtown Manhattan and Garrison Steve.healingny@gmail.com 914.473.2015; QuitWithQuinn.com Quit with Quinn helps p e o p l e overcome daily addictions and unwanted habits ranging from sugar, smoking, alcohol, weight loss, to overeating and other compulsive habits. All natural, painless, no medications, needles, or hypnosis. 90% success rate. See ad pg 15.

SearchLight Medical 2424 Route 52, Hopewell Junction, NY 845.592.4310; SearchLightMedical.com

KARLA BOOTH DIAMOND, MAMSAT Member: Westchester Holistic Network 153 Main St, Suite J, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 914.649.9565; Awareness-in-Action.com

Frustrated with not feeling or looking your best? Let me guide you on your path to better health and well-being. Utilizing: Medical Acupuncture, ONDAMED Biofeedback Therapy, Reiki, Mei Zen Acupuncture for facial rejuvenation, weight loss and fertility. See ad pg 6.

Samyama teaches and mentors in workshops, certified trainings, personal retreats, and private tutoring in Esoteric Studies, Advanced Metaphysics, Practical Yoga Philosophy, Lightworkers Karttikeyan Yoga Nidra, and Tarot Clinic in NY and CT. Please visit website for more information. See ad pg 29.

AYURVEDA ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

LAURIE R. MALLIS, MD, LAC

Spiritual Astrologer, Intuitive Mentor-Coach samyamallc.com

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

Move with ease! The Alexander Technique is an educational method for learning to release patterns of tension that may be causing stress, pain, or poor body usage. Feel lighter and learn to undo compression of the spine and joints.

WakeUpNaturally.com

DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC

Yellow Monkey Village 792 Rte 35 Cross River, NY, and NYC Office: 914.875.9088; Cell: 646.670.6725 Drkaushik.com; drkaushik@drkaushik.com Combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may includesupplements, diet/ nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. Clinic days: M-F. See ad pg 11.

BEHAVIORAL OPTOMETRY SAMANTHA SLOTNICK, OD, FAAO, FCOVD

495 Central Park Ave, Suite 301, Scarsdale 914.874.1177; DrSlotnick.com A whole-person, holistic approach to vision care, for all ages. Specializing in vision therapy and rehabilitation for vision problems which interfere with reading, learning, attention, performance and efficiency. Please visit website for details.

CBD AAA WELLNESS CBD, LLC

Scarsdale, NY 10583 914.320.9506; liz@AAAWellnessCBD.com aaawellnesscbd.com Take back control of your body, center your mind and lift your spirits today. Adopt alternative approaches to wellness with the most luxurious assortment of CBD infused, clean, cruelty free, non-GMO, beauty, wellness, pain management, and clean vaping merchandise on the market today.

YOUR CBD OF MT. KISCO

222 E. Main St., Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 914.276.5409; YourCBDstoreMtKisco.com

YOUR CBD OF WAPPINGERS FALLS

1582 U.S. 9 #5, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 845.297.0302; CBDWappingers.com Your CBD Store® is the largest hemp retailer in the US. All of our products are USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO and ThirdParty Lab Tested. We offer the highest quality hemp products including CBD Tinctures, Topicals and Water Solubles for people and pets. See ad pg 5.

CHIROPRACTIC DR. LEIGH DAMKOHLER, CCSP, LMT 8 Bacon Place, Yonkers, NY 10710 914.523.7947 Chiropractor-WestchesterNY.com

PERSONALIZED treatments designed for YOU by Westchester’s only dually licensed practicing Sports Chiropractor and Massage Therapist. Receive a unique combination of muscle work and adjustments not provided elsewhere. Dr. Leigh can help you move and feel better. Get back to the life you love!

UPPER CERVICAL CHIROPRACTIC OF NY

COACH- MIND, BODY, EATING SHARON CAHR, EATING PSYCHOLOGY

Certified Mind Body Health Coach Plant Based Nutrition Certification 914.309.3452; cahrma12@gmail.com Mind Body Nutrition is a life changing approach to address our eating challenges. We will work together in a way in which eating and health issues become a place of exploration. I look forward to working with you to offer practical results oriented strategies.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

311 North St., Suite 410, White Plains, NY 914.686.6200: ucc-ny.com

JOY MATALON LMT, CST

Dr. Gertner himself suffered with back pain due to an injury. With upper cervical chiropractic treatments, his body began to “heal itself” and the relentless pain that had plagued him quickly left his body. This inspired him to become one of only 5 NUCCA chiropractors in New York, and less than 200 worldwide, currently. He experienced amazing results and he knows you will too. See ad pg 47.

Craniosacral Therapy with Somato Emotional Release allows physical, emotional, and spiritual issues to be intimately explored bringing relief from pain and activating a healing process which continues beyond the session. Experience CST alone or integrated in therapeutic massage.

COACH – EUTAPTICS CROWLEY WELLNESS

Lourdes Crowley Certified Eutaptics Practitioner lourdescrowley.com; 845.500.5178 Learn how to heal yourself. Anxiety - Stress - Relationships - Addiction – Abuse – Chronic Pain – Trauma - Anger. Find and release the emotional and psychological behaviors keeping you stuck. You owe it to yourself. Remote sessions only. First session free.

Locations: Ossining, Garrison 914.519.8138; Joymatalon.com

DOWSER JEANIE PASQUALE PROFESSIONAL DOWSER

MEMBER: Westchester Holistic Network 845.709.5245 dowsing@househarmony.org HouseHarmony.org Protect yourself from EMFs and other negative energies! A professional dowser can block the negative effects of cell phones, satellite dishes, hightension wires and more. Moved into a new home? Want to sell? Have unexplained health issues? Call now!

COACH – LIFE THE LOVING LOTUS

In person or remote sessions 914.557.8213; lovinglotus.org the.loving.lotusx3@gmail.com The Loving Lotus and founder Erika Camilli will help provide an open, positive space to support you to connect to your authentic true self and create the change needed to live the life you’ve always wanted. Sign up for your free consultation.

February 2022

HAIR SALON

ENERGY HEALING ANNE H. BENTZEN

Certified Jikiden Reiki Teacher/Practitioner Treatments, Classes and Student Events Custom BACH Flower Essence formulas Energy Counseling, Crystalline grids 25 Broadway, Ste.101, Pleasantville, NY balancing4life.com; 914.588.4079 Health requires energetic balance. Reiki clears stress, reduces pain, inflammation and restores energy flow. Strengthen your immunity. Relieve anxiety. Depression and insomnia. Learn the original Reiki teachings with Jikiden. Private sessions and small classes. See ad pg 27.

FLOATATION THERAPY RISE ABOVE FLOATATION 111 East Main Street Mount Kisco, NY 10549 914.241.1900

A Center For Awareness and Relaxation through Floatation Therapy. Create the ultimate Relaxation Response by removing all stimulation from light, sound, and gravity. Choose from three different float environments to find your perfect experience. Appointments available from 10am to 10pm daily. Free Parking.

FRESH ORGANIC SALON SOLUTIONS Hair care, Skincare & Make up 190 Rt 117 By Pass, Bedford, NY 914.242.1928; FreshOrganicSalon.com

HERBAL MEDICINE

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

LORRAINE HUGHES

Registered Herbalist (AHG) 263 New Hackensack Road, 2nd Floor Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 lorrainehughes54@gmail.com EmpoweredbyNature.net; 845.416.4598 Lorraine offers Individual Wellness Consultations based on the Chinese Herbal Medicine Paradigm which provides a preventative and individual approach to balanced health. Each “unique” individual protocol will include Chinese, Western, Ayurvedic Herbal remedies and Nutritional planning.

HOLISTIC DENTIST Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 914.214.9678; holisticdentist.com

We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. I invite you to explore our web site to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad pg 2.

250 E. Hartsdale Ave. St. 22, Hartsdale, NY 914.472.0666; HartsdaleHomeopathy.com

4307 Albany Post Rd Hyde Park NY 12538 pellegrinointegrativecancercenter.com Pellegrino Integrative Cancer Center is a collaboration of healthcare practitioners dedicated to delivering the highest standard of conventional, complementary, and alternative medicine. See ad, pg 10.

MATTRESSES Open Mon-Sat. 10-6 2264 South Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 845.204.9090; DavisFurnitureOnline.com

DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND

SUSANNE SALTZMAN, MD

Natural Awakenings – Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess NY Issue February 2022

Articles inside

DAVID PERLMUTTER

FOSTERING LOVE

FERMENTING FOR FOODIES

LIVING IN THE FREQUENCY OF LOVE

THE HEART-MIND CONNECTION