Natural Awakenings – Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess NY November 2021 Edition by Natural Awakenings Westchester Putnam Dutchess Edition

E E HEALTHY LIVING FR

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/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition | WakeUpNaturally.com November 2021

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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 15 THE BLOOD DETECTIVE

Dr. Michael Wald of Chappaqua

20 ORGANIC, VEGAN AND GLUTEN FREE THANKSGIVING DAY OPTIONS

22 EAT WELL TO FEEL WELL Thanksgiving Fare that Boosts Mental Health

24 DYING WELL

Four Steps to a Good Death

28 HEALTHY BRAIN STRATEGIES

How to Prevent Cognitive Decline

30 DAVID CROW on the Healing Power of Medicinal Plants

32 THE HEALING

POWER OF A HUG

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 SACRED DANCE Moving into Divine Energy

DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 15 practitioner spotlight

18 health briefs 19 global briefs 20 local food 22 conscious

eating 2 8 healing ways

3 0 wise words 32 inspiration 34 fit body 38 calendar 41 classifieds 41 planet watch 42 resource guide November 2021

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

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

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letter from publishers

Planning and Gratitude

verything feels more precious this year. Family, friends, gatherings— even simple ones—are significant in light of the past few years. So it’s easy to be grateful this year as we approach Thanksgiving. Whether large or tiny, any gatherDana Boulanger Marilee Burrell ing is worth celebrating and getting excited about. I know I’ll be over the moon to be able to spend this holiday with my 95-yearold mom and have the simple pleasure of making the stuffing and gravy for her. Thanksgiving is traditionally a time to indulge, or even overindulge, but for those like me who want to stay on track with their healthy-eating ways—those who still want a special meal, but one with more veggies, organic ingredients and gluten-free options— I’m happy to report that there are healthy selections in our area, for both turkey eaters and vegans. To learn about these resources, check out “Organic, Vegan and Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Day Options in Westchester and Putnam,” on page 20. And if you’re cooking the big meal yourself, read “Eat Well to Feel Well: Thanksgiving Fare that Boosts Mental Health,” on page 22, for motivation to add more nutrient-dense food to the menu. A nutritious diet is key for good brain health, according to experts who say that cognitive decline is not inevitable—but food isn’t the only factor. There are preventative things we can do now to keep our minds sharp into old age. Exercising regularly, reducing inflammation in the body, getting enough sleep and having positive relationships are also important. Learn more in our Healthy Ways article on page 28, “Healthy Brain Strategies: How to Prevent Cognitive Decline.” This month we’re bringing the topic of death out of the closet. Even though all humans have exactly two things in common—we were all born and we will all die—we talk about birth quite a bit, but death and dying not so much. Births usually involve a lot of preparation: we choose a doctor, make birth plans, take classes, perhaps hire a doula. We don’t usually plan our death process. However, that’s starting to change. Now there are death doulas, trained professionals to help us navigate the process of dying. In New York, there is a bill pending that would legalize medically assisted death for mentally competent people with a medical prognosis of six months or less to live. And there are Death Cafés, events that encourage conversations about death. When we truly face the reality that our time in our physical bodies is limited, we are more likely to focus on what is most meaningful to us and appreciate the days we have left. That’s what Steve Jobs did. Please read “Dying Well: Four Steps to a Good Death,” on page 24, to start living more intentionally now. Dana and I are excited about the big Awaken Fair coming up on November 21. The fair is back in person in Tarrytown for the first time since Covid, and it’s sure to be a big party. Read more on page 10 and purchase your ticket online or at the door. And please stop by our booth to say hi. We hope to see you there! For additional events, check the calendar starting on page 38 and our website, WakeUpNaturally.com/calendar. Make plans! Be grateful.

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

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November 2021

news briefs

Your CBD Store Launches WeightLoss Line

our CBD Store–SunMed, the largest CBD retailer in the United States, has launched its first weight-loss product line, Trim by SunMed. According to the retailer, Trim is the culmination of nearly two decades of global research around the connection between herbal dietary supplements and weight loss, and its efficacy as an appetite suppressant is corroborated by a 13-week clinical study showing “a remarkable rate of success” among human participants. “Your CBD Store is committed to bringing new and innovative products to our customers on a consistent basis, in a safe way that is backed by extensive research and our approach to plant science,” says founder Marcus Quinn. “Our customers are at the heart of all product development, and we believe that Trim by SunMed fills a major void that has existed in the marketplace, using natural weight-loss remedies as opposed to harsh stimulants, allowing hemp to do the work.” Trim uses therapeutic, naturally derived cannabinoids that antagonize the CB-1 receptor and suppress food cravings. When Trim is incorporated into a daily wellness routine that also includes a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, consumers can boost that routine’s effectiveness without making extreme adjustments, the retailer says. Trim is available in a tincture and a soft gel capsule. It is sold exclusively at Your CBD Store locations. Locations: Your CBD Store, 222 E. Main St, Mt. Kisco, NY, and 1582 US-9, Wappingers Falls, NY. For more info, call 914.276.5409, email CBD@YourCBDstoreMtKisco.com and visit YourCBDStoreMtKisco.com. See ad, page 17. 8

MindFull Meals Delivers Nutritional Transparency

ike Barootjian, founder of Hudson Valley meal-delivery service MindFull Meals, says he started the business after noticing a gap in the restaurant industry: a lack of full nutritional information for health-conscious consumers. “Every time I went somewhere to buy prepared foods, my order was loaded with oil, and I never knew how many calories I was eating,” he says. “So my whole MindFull Meals team is on the same mission—to provide plant-based, gluten-free healthy meals and add value to the lives of busy people.” MindFull Meals are also prepared without soy or oil. Every meal is MindFull Meals labeled with calories, macros and ingredients. MindFull Meals operates and cooks in Newburgh and delivers throughout the Hudson Valley, using compostable containers. Customers can place a one-time order or subscribe and save on weekly deliveries, Barootjian says. “Each week the menu changes, and customers always eat something new,” he says. To order online, visit MindFullMealsDelivery.com. For more info, call 888.845.MEALS.

Balancing 4 Life Opens Pleasantville Storefront

nne Bentzen, owner of Balancing 4 Life, has opened a new storefront in Pleasantville to be a space for community wellness. “Promoting harmony of heart, mind and body enhances true health and well-being,” she says. A former occupational therapist who is trained in both Western and original Jikiden Reiki, Bentzen says she has seen first-hand through her work how Reiki supports all medical care and promotes healthy outcomes. “Drug-free natural healing through Private treatment room Reiki and other modalities restores your energetic health as you relieve stress and inflammation,” she says. “During the 2020 lockdown, many people realized how out of control their lives had become. My purpose is to help you regain conscious control by understanding the power of your thoughts to shift your outer reality.” Private Jikiden Reiki treatment sessions and energetic counseling will be offered onsite and remotely. Balancing 4 Life will also serve as a Westchester center for Jikiden Reiki practitioners, hosting classes and events for students and the public. Outside practitioners will also be offering programs for balanced living there. On Thursdays beginning November 18, Rona Levine, an advanced yoga teacher trainer, will be offering two-hour monthly restorative yoga and meditation classes. Bentzen plans to offer additional workshops on topics such as energy mastery and conscious creation. “I guide clients to create healthy boundaries, discern where imbalances exist in their lives, and inspire more creative, satisfying and less stressed lifestyles,” she says. Location: Balancing 4 Life, 25 Broadway, Ste. 101, Pleasantville, NY. For more info, call 914.588.4079, email balancing4lifeusa@gmail.com or visit Balancing4Life.com. See ad, page 32.

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news briefs

Awaken Fair Returns to Tarrytown In-Person

he Awaken Wellness Fair, a major expo focused on green living and body-mind-spirit wellness, will return to Tarrytown on November 21. Founder and CEO Paula Caracappa says she’s expecting an electric atmosphere, as this is the first in-person Awaken Fair in the area since the pandemic began. “It’s really a party,” she says. “We always bring along the best exhibitors, including speakers, healers, vendors and readers. People have been asking and asking for the Awaken Fair in Westchester and New York City. It’s so gratifying to see the enthusiasm—there’s clearly a big pent-up demand. These past 18 months have been very hard on people, nowhere more so than in the New York area. I am so pleased to be offering a day of peace, relaxation and soothing connection.” Among the longtime favorite experts appearing at the Awaken Fair will be “the Awaken Fair 2019 Blood Detective,” Michael Wald, D.C., who will be giving a full day of talks on a variety of health subjects at no additional cost; Westchester Brain and Body, which will be providing aura hand scans; and Beautiful Tibet, showcasing accessories and clothing handmade by women in India, Tibet and Nepal. This year’s lineup will also include new exhibitors, such as Shiny Stuff Gifts, featuring a wide array of sterling silver jewelry; sanastaWellness, which offers therapeutic aromatics; and Third Wolf Designs, whose creations are rooted in “symbolism, depth and intention,” Caracappa says. “The Awaken Wellness Fairs educate people about the many paths to a healthy body, mind and spirit that are available in today’s world,” she says. “We include ancient techniques as well as amazing cutting-edge technologies.” Experienced practitioners in Reiki and other energy-healing techniques will be offering minisessions, so guests can “sample” them affordably, she says. Guests will be required to follow New York State’s Covid regulations, which currently only require masks. Regulations are subject to change. Cost: $15 or $25 VIP for tickets purchased in advance at AwakenFair. com. $20 for tickets purchased at the door. Location: Sleepy Hollow Hotel + Conference Center, 455 S. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY. Info: call 914.422.1784 or visit AwakenFair.com. See ad, page 2. 10

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Bernadette Bloom

Bernadette Bloom Offers Intro to Energy Medicine

ernadette Bloom, an energy medicine practitioner and teacher based in Chappaqua, will offer an introductory class on her healing specialty on February 7. Those who register for “Energy Medicine for the 21st Century: Part 1” can choose to attend either in person or virtually, via Zoom In addition to practicing energy medicine, Bloom is also a medical intuitive and a holistic physical therapist. This past summer she was featured in an author interview series with Energy Magazine. To see a video of the interview, visit her website, TheEsotericBloom.com, and click the first link under News. “For almost 42 years, I have used my gift of energy healing to successfully help clients all over the world overcome physical, mental and emotional problems using a high-vibration energetic technique from Tibet called Esoteric Healing,” she says. “Esoteric Healing can help resolve pain and other symptoms easily and naturally, resolve traumas or conflicts from the past, and detect disease before it manifests itself in the physical body.” Cost: $270. For appointments or more info, contact Bernadette Bloom at 239.289.3744 or bernadettebloom8@gmail.com, or visit TheEsotericBloom.com. See ad, page 35.

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news briefs

New Yorkers Asked to Support Medical Aid in Dying Act

You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn how to surf. ~Jon Kabat-Zinn

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ompassion and Choices— a national nonprofit dedicated to improving care for dying people and empowering them to chart their end-of-life journey—is asking New Yorkers who share those goals to sign a petition in support of the Compassion & Choices Advocates in NY Medical Aid in Dying Act. Originally introduced in 2015, the bill currently is in the Health Committee of both houses of the New York State Assembly and has more than 60 cosponsors. If it passes, New York would join the ranks of 10 other US states and D.C. that allow a terminally ill, mentally capable adult with a prognosis of six months or less to live to have the option to request, obtain and decide to ingest medication to die peacefully in their sleep if suffering is unbearable. The bill is modeled after the Oregon Death with Dignity Act, which has been in effect for more than 20 years without a single instance of abuse or coercion. “We believe that with one in five Americans having access to this compassionate endof-life care option, the time is now for New York lawmakers to stop the suffering and pass the bill,” says Amanda Cavanaugh, New York and New Jersey campaign manager for Compassion and Choices. According to C&C’s website, the organanization “envision(s) a society that affirms life and accepts the inevitability of death, embraces expanded options for compassionate dying, and empowers everyone to choose end-of-life care that reflects their values, priorities and beliefs.” New Yorkers who would like to support the Medical Aid in Dying Act are asked to sign this petition. For more info, visit CompassionAndChoices.org.

Reader Feedback Helps Us Grow

he Natural Awakenings online national readership survey allows us to better serve readers. “Your participation takes just five minutes, and will give us a better understanding of what you need and how well we’re delivering on your expectations,” says founding CEO Sharon Bruckman. “We’ll also use your responses to help guide the direction of future development.” One participant, selected at random, will receive a $100 Visa gift card. With the interests and welfare of readers in mind, Natural Awakenings provides information and resources for living a healthier, happier life. Publishing in more than 50 communities nationwide, Natural Awakenings is one of the country’s most widely read healthy living magazines, with a loyal monthly readership of over 1.3 million. Visit NaturalAwakenings.com/survey to participate. See ad on this page.

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Hilda Demirjian Trains Med Spa Hopefuls

edical spas, which combine aesthetic laser treatments and day spa services, can be highly lucrative for those who understand the industry, says Hilda Demirjian, owner of Hilda Demirjian Laser Hilda Demirjian and Skin Care Center, in White Plains. In response to increasing interest in the field, she’s begun offering coaching and training for physicians and other professionals wanting to launch or grow their own med spa. “The med spa business is in great demand,” she says. “Yes, it is profitable. But you need to know about running the business successfully. Having a background of 25 years in this industry, I can say with confidence that someone entering the field needs guidance. I’ve trained surgeons, doctors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses and med spa owners from Manhattan, Florida, California, Greater Boston, Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Jersey.” A license is needed to run a med spa. Typical services offered include aesthetic laser treatments, such as skin tightening and treatment for acne, scars, pigmentation, stretch marks and hair removal; anti-aging facials; and Botox cosmetic injections. Anyone interested in training with Demirjian can come to White Plains to meet one-on-one with her, or she can travel to their location. She also conducts trainings via Zoom. She says the length and price of her trainings vary according to what the individual needs. While some trainees want to understand the business end of the med spa industry, others might want to learn the specifics of aesthetic laser treatments and skin care techniques. Her med spa business has been successful “since day one,” she says. “A big reason is that I have an endless passion and mission to educate every individual about the largest organ in the body, the skin. Even after 25 years, I’m still following the Golden Rule: I treat every individual the way I want to be treated, with respect and integrity.” Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center offers complimentary skincare consultations. Hilda Demirjian skincare products are available on the store website and on Amazon. Location: Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center, 34 S. Broadway, Ste. 607, White Plains, NY. For more info, call 914.374.1756 or visit HildaDemirjianLaser.com or HildaDemirjianSkincare.com. See ads, pages 11 & 35.

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Rewilding Autumn Retreat for Women

risty M. Vanacore, Psy.D., will lead a Rewilding Autumn Retreat for women to honor the transition from fall to winter and activate a new personal and collective cycle of growth. From November 19 to 21, attendees will gather in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, at the West Lane Inn in Ridgefield. “Women need ceremony, sisterhood and nature to feed the fires of their starving souls. As the pressures of modern life continue to threaten the value and vitality of families and parents—particularly mothers—struggle to be the glue that binds, it is imperative that women remember their roots and reignite the flames of their intuition,” Kristy M. Vanacore Vanacore says. “Rewilding—an emancipation from the domestication and social conditioning of tolerance, distraction, apathy and fear to the empowered freedom and reclamation of their inherent curiosity, passion, ingenuity, instinctual wisdom and boundless joy—is critical to revitalize families. It’s what the world is waiting for.” Vanacore weaves ancient wisdom with modern science to empower families to thrive. A trailblazer in the field of holistic psychology for two decades, she has revolutionized the personal development industry by creating a mentoring program for all ages and stages which combines coaching and personal development, evidenced-based psychological therapies, somatic/movement-based practices, energy medicine and shamanic healing. The retreat package includes private or shared rooms, ceremony, yoga, meditation, dance, music, weaving and creative expression, fireside talks, Shamanic Reiki and craniosacral balancing sessions, farm-to-table meals and outdoor excursions. For more information, call 914.497.8006, email Kristy.Vanacore@KMVGroup.org or visit KMVGroup.org.

Festival of Trees Returns to The Summit at Danbury

he Festival of Trees, benefiting Ann’s Place, will be back live at The Summit at Danbury November 19 to 21. Attendees can walk through a winter wonderland of hundreds of decorated trees and raffle prizes and enjoy a unique shopping experience with artisanal vendors at the Festival Marketplace. Entertainment will be on the hour Saturday and Sunday. To-go craft bags will be available for children ages 11 and under. Adults 21 and over can join the popular Taps and Trees Beer Festival Saturday night. During this festival within a festival, attendees will be able to partake in tastings of local beer and other libations. The first 400 guests to arrive in the Tap Room will receive a souvenir glass. There will be live music, dinner and dessert by the bite, all with full access to the 100-plus trees, raffle prizes and shopping that the festival offers. All proceeds go to Ann’s Place, which serves local families facing cancer. It provides counseling, support groups and wellness programs, all free of charge. To find out more about these services, call 203.790.6568 or visit AnnsPlace.org. For more information and to buy tickets to the beer festival, visit AnnsPlaceFestivalOfTrees.org.

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practitioner spotlight

The Blood Detective

Chappaqua practitioner uses patented technology to uncover hidden nutritional health solutions.

lood can that the blood reveal far ranges provided more than on traditional what is typically blood test reports discovered through are based upon the bloodwork “average” people, done at a traditionnot healthy al doctor’s office, people. Statistical says Dr. Michael averages come Wald. A doctor of from the genchiropractic with eral population of two board certifiblood donors— Dr. Michael Wald cations in nutrition not from people and 30 years of with the healthiclinical experience, Wald uses his Bloodest hormone levels, cholesterol levels and Detective technology to interpret large other blood tests. And the average blood amounts of laboratory data for hidden donor isn’t too healthy. nutritional health solutions. For example, the average cholesterol lev“Blood type is only one lab parameter,” el is 0 to 200 mg/dL. This range gives us the he says. “I often combine 25 or more lab high levels of cardiovascular disease that’s tests using the BloodDetective software, still the number one killer of men and which compares the results to those of women. People in the healthy range—160 healthy people—not just the average mg/dL to 185 mg/dL—have much lower clinical lab ranges that traditional medical cardiovascular risk and death. The average doctors use.” T3 thyroid hormone level is 130 pg/dL to For example, Wald’s standard screening 450 pg/dL, but the healthy range is 175 pg/ includes tests for blood pH, malabsorpdL to 350 pg/dL. tion and inflammation. He uses the results If your lab results are compared only to create personalized natural treatment to the average ranges, important health plans, which might also include advice on information can be missed. Tighter blooddiet, nutritional supplementation, stress test ranges make the difference between reduction, sleep and other lifestyle issues. average and healthy. Recently Wald explained how blood testing informs his holistic approach to Why do you regularly test for health. blood pH, malabsorption and

Why is it important to compare bloodwork to the “healthy” rather than “average” range? Even most medical doctors are unaware

inflammation?

Medical education and therefore medical practice is disjointed and compartmentalized, leading to incomplete medical care. Each specialty tends to run its own set of

blood tests. If a health problem is outside that specialty, the patient is referred to a new doctor who performs a different set of tests. The thinking, training and health approaches of traditional medical physicians are simply different from mine. My goal is to provide a wide range of tests when necessary, going beyond the “standard tests” way of thinking and overly focused health care. Monitoring blood pH is essential to health and healing—that’s usually not true of saliva or urine. Testing for malabsorption is essential too; if someone doesn’t absorb normally, even the best health recommendations will fall short. And although we know that inflammation is at the root of most health problems, inflammation testing is not often performed or interpreted nutritionally.

Your approach to diagnosis and treatment is a process. When someone comes to you with a health concern, what’s a realistic timeline for getting answers and lasting relief? Healing time depends upon the conditions, how well the patient complies with my suggestions, and how they individually respond to care. Once I see an individual for the first time, I have a pretty good idea of how long my recommendations should take to work. I start with a detailed holistic consultation. Then I superimpose my 30 years of experience and education, along with various questionnaires, to help me narrow in on the problems at hand. At this point I’m aware of what testing, if any, I will recommend, and I’ll interpret many of the lab results within my BloodDetective philosophy. Location: The Office of Dr. Michael Wald, DC, Board Certified Nutritionist, 29 King St., 2nd Floor, Chappaqua, NY. For more info, call 914.552.1442, email info@blooddetective.com or visit DrMichaelWald.com. See ad, page 13.

November 2021

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Boost Cognition with Green Tea Compound

Lose Weight with Small Calorie Reduction

Boost Kids’ Learning Abilities with Exercise yulianto poitier/Pexels.com

The right kind of exercise can help kids learn vocabulary better, suggests research from the University of Delaware. An article published in the Journal of Speech Language and Hearing Research reports that when 48 children between 6 and 12 years of age were taught new words before swimming, they scored 13 percent higher on a test of the words than children that did CrossFit-like exercises or colored pictures. Lead researcher Maddy Pruitt says that exercise is known to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein she describes as the “Miracle-Gro of the brain.” Swimming made a difference, she says, because it is an automatic movement, while the CrossFit exercises were new to them and required mental energy. 18

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

Eat High-Flavonoid Foods to Reduce Cognitive Decline Eating foods high in flavonoids—the antioxidant-rich plant compounds found in strawberries, oranges, peppers and apples—can reduce the risk of cognitive decline by 20 percent or more, reports new research published by the American Academy of Neurology. Researchers followed more than 78,000 people in their late 40s and early 50s for 20 years, asking them what they ate and to evaluate their cognitive skills. They found that those foods with more flavones, such as yellow or orange fruits and vegetables and some spices, reduced cognitive decline the most, at 38 percent—the equivalent of being three to four years younger in age. Anthocyanins, found in blueberries, blackberries and cherries, were associated with a 24 percent reduced risk of cognitive decline. “The people in our study who did the best over time ate an average of at least half a serving per day of foods like orange juice, oranges, peppers, celery, grapefruits, grapefruit juice, apples and pears,” says study author Walter Willett, M.D., a nutrition and epidemiology professor at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “And it’s never too late to start, because we saw those protective relationships whether people were consuming the flavonoids in their diet 20 years ago or if they started incorporating them more recently.” trang doan/Pexels.com

mentatdgt /Pexels.com

A reduction of just 200 calories a day combined with aerobic exercise four times a week produced greater weight loss and better heart health in obese, sedentary adults than exercise alone or a 600-calorie reduction plus exercise, reports a new study in Circulation. Researchers from the Wake Forest School of Medicine, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, tested 160 adults ages 65 to 79. Those that combined exercise with 200 fewer calories a day lost 10 percent of their weight, about 20 pounds, over five months. They had a 21 percent average increase in the aorta’s ability to expand and contract, a key indicator of heart health. Measures of aortic stiffness did not change significantly for the exercise-only group or the 600-calorie-reduction-plus-exercise group. Weight loss was similar for both calorie-reduction groups, even though one group consumed nearly three times fewer calories per day.

A single dose of 100 milligrams of the compound L-theanine—the amount found in four cups of green tea—improved reaction times and working memory of men and women in new research from Japan’s Central Research Institute, in Shizuoka. In the doubleblind, placebo-controlled study, 69 adults that selfreported cognitive decline reacted more quickly to computer-generated promptings and answered more questions correctly after ingesting the compound compared to the placebo. anna pyshniuk/Pexels.com

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Love Bugs

global briefs

The Food Revolution—Miniaturized

Bye-Bye to a Nasty Pesticide After a multiyear effort, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ruled that chlorpyrifos, a pesticide linked to neurological damage in children, including reduced IQ, loss of working memory and attention deficit disorders, can no longer be used on food. EPA Administrator Michael Regan cites the action as an overdue step to protect children and farmworkers from dangerous consequences of the pesticide. “EPA will follow the science and put health and safety first.” The ruling will take effect in February 2022. Patti Goldman, an attorney for Earthjustice, says, “Chlorpyrifos will finally be out of our fruits and vegetables.” The pesticide has been sprayed on crops such as strawberries, apples, citrus, broccoli and corn since 1965. Up until 2000, it was used to kill ants, roaches and mosquitos. The Natural Resources Defense Council notes that it will still be allowed for other uses such as cattle ear tags.

Tree House Knock On Wood

courtesy of Svenskt Tra

A Swedish method of building using cross-laminated timber (CLT) is emerging as a climate-friendly alternative to traditional, concrete-based construction. The foundation is cement, but multistory wooden structures of 13 floors and higher are possible. Using timber has environmental benefits in the form of lowered carbon emissions. Mathias Fridholm, director of Svenskt Tra (Swedish Wood), an industry organization, says, “Wood is in many ways an excellent material for building in dense cities, because we can prefabricate all the elements in factories instead of onsite.” Prefabrication speeds construction and reduces truck traffic. CLT is not only strong and light, it is breathable; it holds heat, but doesn’t need plastic layers to manage moisture like concrete, which also requires sand, a non-renewable resource that requires drudging seabeds. Managed forests are renewable and serve as a carbon storage facility. Anna Ervast Oberg, a project manager at Swedish real estate developer Folkhem, advises that just changing the structure of a building to wood from concrete would result in an immediate 50 percent reduction in emissions. “What we have to do now is to stop the emissions, very fast. This gives us a hint of where we should be focusing; where we can make the biggest difference.”

It may come as a surprise to most Americans, but people have been eating insects (entomophagy) for thousands of years, and they are part of the diets of more than 2 billion people. The United Nations predicts that this rapidly growing industry could be worth $6.3 billion by 2030, so bug-based products may soon appear in local stores. Although Western food markets have excluded insects in favor of animal-based protein, insect-based foods offer many health and environmental benefits, especially in light of the pressures from climate change. Insects produce 80 times less methane than cattle and use less space, feed, water, housing and maintenance. One pound of beef requires 1,850 gallons of water, one pound of chicken uses 500 gallons and one pound of crickets requires one gallon. Nestlé and PepsiCo are conducting research and development forays into the field, and smaller, nimble startups are making plans to introduce new products. Names to watch include Mighty Cricket, Illegal Oats, Jiminy’s, Aspire (Exo Bar), BeoBia and FarmInsect. Public acceptance is expected to be gradual. egor kamelev/Pexels.com

Kid Safe

Storm Clouds

Water Shortage is a Global Problem Lake Urmia, in Iran, has decreased in size by 50 percent from 2,085 square miles in the 1990s to 965 now, and the Department of Environmental Protection of West Azerbaijan is concerned that it may disappear entirely. Scenarios like this are multiplying in the Middle East because the water table is becoming depleted. Persistent drought and high temperatures, in addition to poor water management and overuse, create a bleak outlook unless changes are made. A study by the Iranian Energy Ministry found the fate of the lake was more than 30 percent attributable to climate change. Iran, Iraq and Jordan extract copious amounts of water from the ground for irrigation, and Charles Iceland, global director of water at the World Resources Institute, says, “They’re using more water than is available routinely through rain.” In Iran, a network of dams used by the agriculture sector uses about 90 percent of the nation’s supply. “Both declining rainfall and increasing demand in these countries are causing many rivers, lakes and wetlands to dry up,” Iceland says. As areas become uninhabitable in the future, political violence may emerge over how to share and manage rivers and lakes. Transboundary usage must be regulated and monitored if there is any hope to resolve the crisis. November 2021

local food

Organic, Vegan and Gluten Free Thanksgiving Day Options ►Skinny Buddha Organic Food and Fitness in Mount Kisco Elyce Jacobson, Co-Owner Vegan, gluten free, plant based, organic, kosher

What’s on the menu? Stuffing, wild mushroom gravy and butternut squash soup, all vegan and gluten free—and that’s just a sampling. For their entire menu, visit MySkinnyBuddha.com. How to order: Call 914.358.1666 or email info@myskinnybuddha.com. Harvest Salad with kale, sweet potatoes, beets, & pumpkin seeds at Brooklyn Organic Kitchen

e have much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving—especially around here, where local food businesses have organic, vegan and glutenfree options on their holiday menus. Here are some of our favorites.

►Good Choice Kitchen in Ossining

Laurie Gershgorn, Chef and Owner Plant based, gluten free, raw What’s on the menu? Everything for a vegan Thanksgiving Day meal—complete with sides, soups, spreads and raw desserts—that’s gluten-free too. In fact their entire menu is whole food, plant based and gluten free. More info: GoodChoiceKitchen.com. How to order: Call 914.266.3003. Orders must be placed by November18 for November 23 or 24 pickup. Location: Good Choice Kitchen, 147 Main St., Ossining, NY. 20

Location: Skinny Buddha Organic Food and Fitness, 159 Lexington Ave., Mt. Kisco, NY.

►Brooklyn Organic Kitchen in Mahopac Sandra Marinelli, Chef and Owner Vegan options, organic

What’s on the menu? Roasted turkey or tofurkey with turkey gravy (can be vegan and gluten free). Sides: mashed potatoes, sweet potato pie, crispy roasted brussels sprouts with shiitake bacon, fresh cranberry sauce, apple sausage stuffing. Dessert: asTurkey dinner with all sorted pies. the fixings at Brooklyn Everything Organic Kitchen can be traditional, vegan or gluten free. Can be bought as a package or à�� la carte�� . More info: BOKMahopac.com.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Fable Farm

THANKSGIVING FARM BOX

Cooking at home this year? Make it easy— and healthy—by picking up a Thanksgiving farm box from a nearby organic farm. Tom Deacon, owner of Fable: From Farm to Table, in Ossining, says their Thanksgiving Farm Box contains their own seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as beets, squash, apples and sweet potatoes, as well as other locally produced goodies, including apple cider, cranberry jam and mini challah rolls. “The vegetables and fruit are organic,” he says. “The cider is from Samascott Orchards, and the rolls are from Mustard Tree Bread, in Yorktown.” The full list of items can be found at FableFoods.com/ thanksgiving. Depending on the family, a Fable Thanksgiving Farm Box has been known to serve anywhere from four to 10 people, Deacon says. The cut-off date for ordering Fable’s pasture-raised turkeys is November 1, but orders for the $125 Thanksgiving Farm Box can be placed until November 15. To order, visit FableFoods.com/ thanksgiving or Fable’s market at 1311 Kitchawan Rd., Ossining, NY. How to order: Call 845.621.2655 or email brooklynorganickitchen@gmail.com. Location: Brooklyn Organic Kitchen, 890 South Lake Blvd. Mahopac, NY.

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

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

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

FARM STORE 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

BIG ROCK MARKET

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

130 Hardscrabble Rd North Salem, NY 914.485.1210 HarvestMoonFarmAndOrchard.com

Somers 57 Rte. 6. (in Baldwin Place) Somers, NY 10505 914.485.8093

HILLTOP HANOVER FARM & ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

GreensNaturalFoods.com

FARMERS’ MARKETS

& 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.

1271 Hanover St, Yorktown Heights, NY 914.962.2368 HilltopHanoverFarm.org

NEW

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

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

GOSSETT’S FARM MARKET

MEAL DELIVERY

MARKETS

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

THREE FEATHERS FARM

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

To place your listing here call 845-593-0065

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

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

WholeFoodsMarket.com November 2021

conscious eating

Eat Well to Feel Well thanksgiving fare that boosts mental health by Christy Ratliff

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Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

cross America, people of all ages are struggling with mental health issues. Nearly one in five people is living with a mental health condition, and the number of people seeking help for anxiety and depression is skyrocketing, reports Mental Health America. According to the organization’s 2021 State of Mental Health in America Report, suicidal thoughts are increasing among both adults and children, and 9.7 percent of youth is experiencing severe major depression compared to 9.2 percent last year. The highly contagious COVID-19 Delta variant has only exacerbated these mental health challenges. The hope and help we seek may be as close as our own kitchen. Accumulating research shows that a diet rich in highly processed foods may increase the risk of developing or worsening various mental health conditions. But a nutrient-based diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables; omega-3 fatty acids; nuts, seeds and legumes; whole grains, fresh herbs and spices; fish and olive oil, may help to support and enhance mental health. We can start this Thanksgiving by serving up healthier, nutrient-rich options to alleviate anxiety and depression, stabilize mood and promote mental health and wellness. “The gut/brain connection helps us understand the food/ mood connection,” explains Dr. Uma Naidoo, a Harvard-trained nutritional psychiatrist, professional chef, nutrition specialist and author of the national bestseller This is Your Brain on Food. “The enteric nervous system—that is, the nerves supplying the gastrointestinal tract—totals over 100 million neurons and communicates directly with the brain, or central nervous system, by way of the vagus nerve, which is responsible for our ‘rest-anddigest’ response. “It’s also vital to note that the gut contains the highest number of serotonin receptors, and the gut itself produces all the neurotransmitters that are also made in the brain, including serotonin, often called the happiness hormone. In turn, these neurotransmitters are implicated in sound mental health or potential problems when they are deficient.” “What we eat affects mental health in many ways,” adds Amy Spindel, a functional holistic nutritionist in Plano, Texas, and founder of FoodWithThoughtNutrition.com. “Nutrient deficiencies can cause poor neurotransmitter production. Insufficient vitamin B6, folate and vitamin B12 can be implicated in depression and anxiety symptoms, as they are all needed for various stages of neurotransmitter production, especially serotonin, dopamine and GABA.” “Traditional sugary, high-carbohydrate foods promote unstable

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blood sugar and selectively feed inflammatory gut microbes,” Spindel says, suggesting that we skip the typical foods many of us associate with the holidays such as pecan pie, marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole and canned cranberry sauce. “Blood sugar fluctuations cause the body to scramble in an attempt to re-regulate glucose, which may mean spikes of cortisol or adrenaline, as well as insulin. The end result can be depression and anxiety from excessive stress hormones and a glucosestarved brain.” But making such changes, particularly during the holidays, isn’t easy. “If the thought of changing up the traditional Thanksgiving menu gives you pause, you are not alone—and this is why I believe in adding in habits (and in this case, dishes) which have a positive ripple effect on our bodies and our brain, allowing for a selfsustaining cycle in our lifestyle,” advises Naidoo. “As a nutritional psychiatrist, I feel that we are more emotionally nurtured by a feeling of abundance in ‘adding’ new Thanksgiving dishes than thinking about this as ‘excluding’ foods,” she notes. “For example, tossing a fresh, folate-rich spinach and arugula salad with bits of antioxidant-rich strawberries, crisp roasted chickpeas and omega-3-rich olive oil adds color, flavor and a plethora of mood-nourishing ingredients to the dinner table. Even adding extra veggies to existing dishes, such as allicin-rich garlic to green beans or extra celery and fresh herbs to stuffing, adds in powerful phytonutrients with gutloving fiber.” “Thanksgiving favorites that are ample in neurotransmitter-producing nutrients include turkey, shellfish, sweet potatoes and acorn squash, asparagus, leafy greens, oranges and green beans,” Spindel adds. While it’s true that we cannot control a global pandemic or solve the mental health crisis in America with positive thinking alone, we can minimize our feelings of powerlessness and despair by making small but significant dietary changes—not just on Thanksgiving, but every day of the year.

coming in the december holiday issue

Boosting Immune System plus: Uplifting Humanity

Christy Ratliff is a professional health and wellness writer based in Central Florida. November 2021

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Four Steps to a Good Death by Ronica O’Hara

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n his deathbed, Apple founder Steve Jobs looked for a long time at his children, his sister and his wife, then moved his gaze to the space behind them. “Oh wow! Oh wow! Oh wow!” he gasped. No one can know for certain what he was experiencing, but his words point to the deep, mysterious potential of our final hours—the awareness of which can transform our life long before its end. “An awareness of dying, of death, can wake us up to life. It helps us live a life that’s rich and full and meaningful. When we deny the truth of dying, we live less wholeheartedly, less completely,” says Frank Ostaseski, founder of the pioneering San Francisco Zen Hospice Project and author of The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully. The pandemic has 51 percent of us thinking more about our own mortality, a survey shows. The subject of death has been slowly opening up in America: TV programs like Six Feet Under and Alternative Endings: Six New Ways to Die in America present dying and grief more realistically; thousands of small conversational gatherings called “death cafes” are being held each year; people are designing their own funerals and choosing green burial sites; and the field of “death doulas” is emerging to help families navigate the legal and emotional shoals. Half a century after the release of Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’ seminal book On Death and Dying, palliative care to ease pain is offered by two-thirds of American hospitals, and Medicare funding for end-of-life hospice care has grown tenfold over the last two decades. Yet for many, death remains the last taboo—85 percent of us have not discussed our last wishes yet with loved ones. Thousands of studies in the emerging field of experimental existential psychology have found that when reminded subconsciously of death, people tend to drive faster, drink harder, smoke more and get meaner to out-groups in attempts to lower their anxiety. But when we look death squarely in the face, that anxiety recedes, the research concludes. Gratitude, self-honesty and the humility of recognizing our place in the larger whole are also proven antidotes. With less fear, we are better able to take the proactive, concrete steps that ease our passage—getting clear on our values and desires, having important conversations, attending to final decisions and opening to our spiritual process. Although death has its own ways and means, these four processes can make it more likely we will die as we would like to. November November 2021 2021

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Defining What We Value “Deeply consider what your

priorities in life are,” says Tarron Estes, founder and CEO of The Conscious Dying Institute, in Boulder, which has trained more than 6,500 doulas since 2013. “Ask yourself, if I had only three months to live, what’s important to me spiritually, emotionally, physically? What do I still need to do or say?” She recommends Stephen Levine’s book, A Year to Live, for exercises and meditations for that process. “Don’t wait until the time of your dying to discover what it has to teach you,” advises Ostaseski, who has sat beside more than 2,000 hospice patients in their last hours. “When I’m with dying people, the things that are important to them are not their spiritual beliefs, but are more about relationships—‘Am I loved? Did I love well?’ Those two questions are useful inquiries now. They help us to discover where value and meaning can be found.” By applying our values to the dying process, we can start sorting through options. Do we want to die at home or in a hospital? What medical procedures will we accept or decline? What measures do we want to be taken to sustain our life? Who do we want to be at our side? And what do we need to say before that time?

Having Important Conversations As daunting as the

prospect of an end-of-life talk with family and friends may seem, it can start with simple words like “I want to talk with you about something important to me.” Without spelling out our desires, death can become inadvertently medicalized: Nine in 10 of us say we want to die in our homes, but only two in 10 do. “The default systems are all to treat, treat, treat, until someone finally says, ‘No,’ so many people end up on a high-tech conveyor belt to the ICU,” says award-winning journalist Katy Butler, author of The Art of Dying Well: A Practical Guide to a Good End of Life. Among people that undertake such talks, 73 percent describe the experience as positive, reassuring and productive. A downloadable Conversation Starter Guide (TheConversationProject.org) provides practical guidance for these critical conversations.

Attending to Medical and Burial Decisions Taking care

of business—the paperwork aspects of death known as advance directives—spares loved ones from having to make tough decisions later. A last will and testament precludes pain and infighting among family and friends. A living will specifies what treatments are wanted under what conditions. A medical power of attorney designates a trusted person to make medical decisions if a patient is not capable. A Do Not Resuscitate order approved by a doctor means emergency medical workers are less likely to give CPR, which frequently causes trauma and broken ribs in elderly or frail patients. Either cremation or a burial can be decided upon; environmental options such as a forest burial in a wooden casket can be explored. Local hospice options can be surveyed in advance; nonprofits generally are rated better than profit-making groups.

Opening to the Spiritual Process Whether or not we have

religious beliefs to carry us through waves of loss and sorrow, death can spur spiritual insight. “In dying, we withdraw from our outer circles and come into the inner circles of our lives—the rela26

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

tionships that matter most to us,” says Ostaseski, who has worked four decades with hospice patients. “There’s a growing silence that has us becoming more contemplative and reflective. Our sense of time and space changes and we enter into a kind of free flow. The boundaries we have lived by begin to dissolve, and we start to feel ourselves as part of something larger—not as a belief, but as a natural occurrence. Often people realize themselves to be more than the small, separate self they had thought themselves to be.” Joan Tollifson, a Zen-trained spiritual teacher and author of Death: The End of Self-Improvement, concurs: “When the future disappears, we are brought home to the immediacy that we may have avoided all our lives. With no future left to fantasize about, the focus of attention may finally be fully on right Now, the only place where our life ever actually is. Really getting that ‘This is it,’ there may be a sudden recognition of the absolute preciousness and wonder of every simple ordinary thing and of the people around us, just as they are, with all their flaws and foibles. Old grudges and resentments often melt away, and love shines through. “All the things which may have been part of our self-image—independence, physical strength, cognitive sharpness, good appearance and so on—have either disappeared or are rapidly collapsing, which invites the discovery that none of that really mattered, that what we truly or more fundamentally are is not dependent on any of that. “The greatest gift we can give to a loved one who is dying,” says Tollifson, is to “simply be present, listen, follow your heart, trust the process. Everything else will follow from that. There’s no right or wrong way.” It can be difficult to know what to say to a loved one near the end, but hospice workers recommend five phrases that have deep healing potential, even if a person seems unconscious: “I love you,” “Thank you,” “Please forgive me,” “I forgive you,” and “Goodbye” or “Until we meet again.” As Butler points out, the first four phrases can be said any time in our lives. Increasingly in hospice care, loved ones are encouraged to sit with the body after the death, touching it, sharing stories, perhaps gently bathing it and dressing it in favorite clothes. “Touching the body, feeling the coolness, makes the death real to the family,” Ostaseski says. “Research shows that people that went through that process still grieved, but they were able to be with the emotion and not be overwhelmed by it.” Facing the reality of death—as hard and heartbreaking as that can be—can free us to truly live life, said Jobs. After his terminal cancer diagnosis, he told Stanford students in a commencement address, “Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything—all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure—these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@ gmail.com.

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Death Café Coming to Zoom November 18

ircle of Friends for the Dying will host its 79th Death Café on November 18, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., via Zoom. Anyone who wishes to explore the topic of death and dying is welcome to attend. CFD hosts monthly Death Cafés to promote conversations about this taboo topic and to help people make the most of their finite lives. Last year CFD teamed up with Death Café of Westchester to produce these gatherings on Zoom, making it possible for people from all over the country to join the discussion. “Awareness of the inevitability of death can give life deep meaning,” says CFD co-founder Barbara Sarah. “Talking with others about it can enliven and enrich your day. Being present to life and exchanging thoughts about death opens your heart and mind.” Since 2013, CFD has worked to expand death literacy in its home community of Kingston, New York, with the mission of opening a comfort-care home for the dying in the Mid-Hudson Valley. With no agenda, objectives or themes, Death Cafés are safe places where people of all communities and belief systems can get in touch with and express their feelings about mortality. They’re intended to be discussion groups rather than grief-support or counseling sessions. “Each experience is different for everyone, depending on what you bring to the table,” says JoAnna Scari, who facilitates CFD’s Death Cafés. “We explore our emotions and thoughts with others, often strangers—but we leave as friends.”

coming in the december holiday issue

Uplifting Humanity plus: Boosting

Immune System

For more info or to register, visit cfdhv.org/events/.

November 2021

healing ways

Healthy Brain Strategies How to Prevent Cognitive Decline

benjavisa ruangvaree/AdobeStock.com

by Linda Sechrist

healthy brain performs mental processes known as cognition, which is the acquiring of knowledge and understanding by means of thought, experience and the senses. This includes functions and systems such as memory, learning, language, problem solving, decision making, reasoning and intelligence. The aging process, a stroke or a brain injury can cause a mild to severe reduction in healthy brain 28

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

functioning resulting in impaired memory and concentration, and difficulty in learning new things or making decisions that impact daily living. Functional medicine experts focused on preventive health care agree on the ABC’s for optimizing the brain and protecting against decline: eating a healthy diet, exercising, reducing inflammation and stress levels, balancing hormone levels, cultivating healthy relationships and getting enough restorative sleep. With their expertise, they are helping to shift the old paradigm of inevitable aging and cognitive decline into a new one based on the brain’s neuroplasticity. Harvard-trained neuroscientist Jill Bolte Taylor, author of the bestseller My Stroke of Insight and the recent Whole Brain Living, is a true poster child for demonstrating the brain’s neuroplasticity and ability to recover from a massive stroke. She writes about the congenital neurological brain disorder that became a problem when an arteriovenous malformation exploded in her brain’s left hemisphere. For four hours, she observed her brain functions systemically shutting down one by one. On the afternoon of her stroke, she could not walk, talk, read, write or recall any of her life. Eight years later, she was not only slalom waterskiing again, but also explaining to the world, “We are the life-force power of the universe, with manual dexterity and two cognitive minds. We have the power to choose, moment to moment, who and how we want to be in the world.” Devaki Lindsey Berkson, author of Sexy Brain, a hormone formulator and former researcher at Tulane University’s estrogen think tank, advises, “Most people think hormones are sexy, reproductive things and when they get older, they’re relieved that they don’t have to think about them. Not true. The body has a virtual physiological internet system. Hormones are the email signals to most cells. While the robustness of hormones and their signals affects lungs, gut, kidney and vocal cord health, it especially affects the brain. Balancing hormones with bioidentical hormones is one solution.” David Perlmutter, neurologist and co-author of Brain Wash, cites food as the biggest player in both brain and overall health in his books and PBS workshops. “Eating inappropriately causes intestinal permeability, resulting in inflammation, which in the brain, threatens good decision making—from deciding on the foods we eat to turning off our televisions at night, getting

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a good night’s rest, making sure that we exercise regularly and connecting with other people. Not good for the gut are dairy products, alcohol, highly processed foods that are low in fiber, high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, as well as antibiotics,” he says, adding that meditation and exposure to nature are powerful ways of reducing inflammation in the body and brain. As explained by neurologist Dale E. Bredesen, author of The End of Alzheimer’s, stress leads to an increase in cortisol levels that can be toxic to our brains—in particular the memory—consolidating the hippocampus, one of the first structures affected by Alzheimer’s. Studies show that high stress levels can also contribute to brain fog, involving difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness and mental fatigue. The Bredesen Protocol, available from health practitioners and online, includes exercising, eating a plant-based diet, supplementing to reduce insulin sensitivity and optimize cognitive function, reducing both gut inflammation and exposure to toxins, treating pathogens and optimizing sleep. HealthyBrains.org, Cleveland Clinic’s Healthy Brains Initiative, is an online resource center with information on how to manage brain health and create a brain span that matches a life span. It offers six pillars of brain health as explained by brain health experts, including exercise, sleep, relaxation, mental fitness and social interaction. Supplementing for brain health should be done wisely, says Mark Hyman, author of Food: What the Heck Should I Eat? and director of functional medicine at Cleveland Clinic. He recommends at the very least taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement, omega-3, extra vitamins B3, B6 and B12, folate and a good probiotic that enhances the brain-gut relationship. Mastery of the ABC’s in kindergarten is required as the foundation of language and a lifetime of learning. Living the fundamentals for a healthy brain can result in a brain span that equals our life span.

Hello Crystals!

Universal Healing Arts Holistic & Wellness Community HOLIDAY GIFT GIVING Visit our shop for Unique Gift Ideas! Crystals, Jewelry, Oracle Cards, Candles, Incense, Mala, and more!

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Tell them you saw it in Natural Awakenings!

Linda Sechrist is a Natural Awakenings senior staff writer. Connect at Linda Sechrist.com. November 2021

wise words

photo by Simone Anne

For our survival as a species. Plants created the biosphere over hundreds of millions of years, including the ozone layer, the oxygen in the atmosphere, the fertility of the soil, the regulation of the seasons and the foundation of the food chain. From those conditions, higher life was able to emerge and evolve: Humans emerged from conditions created by plants. Since we cannot live directly on soil and sunlight as plants do, the structure and function of the human body are designed so that we can extract those energies in forms that plants provide; our physiology, respiration and metabolism is a mirror image of photosynthesis. We have complete biological dependency on plants in every moment; understanding this is the basis of reverence for nature, which is ecological spirituality, the only long-term solution to the environmental crisis we have created through lack of sensitivity and appreciation of our place in the biosphere.

David Crow on the Healing Power of Medicinal Plants

by Randy Kambic

avid Crow, author of In Search of the Medicine Buddha, among other books, is a foremost expert in botanical medicine and other natural health applications. As a teacher, telemedicine consultant, researcher, certified master herbalist, aromatherapist and acupuncturist, he has studied Chinese, Tibetan, Ayurvedic and Western herbal medicine for more than 30 years. He is a strong advocate of the safe use of herbs and essential oils,

and installing gardens in public and private spaces. As one of the first medical pioneers to use essential oils and aromatherapy in clinical practice, integrating them into comprehensive treatments, he is also the founder of Floracopeia Aromatic Treasures.

Why do you feel humanity needs to reconnect a sacred relationship with plants?

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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How is self-care changing to empower people? The doctor/patient paradigm is changing in many ways as a result of the internet, availability of natural medicines and awareness of the limitations and dangers of pharmaceutical drugs. The availability of nutraceuticals and herbal products from around the world has created a golden age of natural medicine, but has also brought widespread confusion from the overwhelming amount of information combined with marketing of products. People are asking more about drugs and prescribed procedures; they are seeking natural alternatives, and in many cases, either reducing or eliminating their need for pharmaceutical drugs. This change is an important step toward greater health consciousness, which is linked directly to other aspects of creating a healthier society, like the increased demand for organic food that’s driving more organic agriculture.

Why are cultural medical systems inseparable from spiritual and meditative practices? Classical medical systems such as Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, along with indigenous and shamanic uses of plants for healing, have evolved and are inseparable from the spiritual practices of their cultures. For example, Chinese medicine evolved from and with the same philosophical roots and practices as qigong and Taoist alchemy, and Ayurveda emerged from and in turn influenced yoga, tantra and Vedic philosophy. The significance of this is that medical practices were used both for healing the body and to support yogic and spiritual practices, and vice versa. Now we have modern scientific research confirming the health benefits of spiritual practices such as meditation and prayer, but more importantly, traditional medical systems remind us that there is an ultimate spiritual goal that is higher than mere physical health.

What is your view on the resurgence of psychedelic plant medicines for healing? All plants have healing properties and also have potential dangers and toxicity, depending on how they are used. The psychoactive plants, specifically the entheogens (those

that awaken the perception of divinity) have been used in ceremonies and mystery cults throughout history for healing conditions of body, mind and spirit, but those traditions have always been under the care of highly trained and experienced priests, priestesses and shamans. The experiences while under the influence of these plants are highly dependent on the container of the environment, the cultural mythologies, the ritual, its leaders and the other people present in the ceremony, and it can be highly unpredictable with both good and bad outcomes. The use of these medicines at higher doses is an excellent opportunity for deep inner transformation, exploration of consciousness and appreciation of the visionary realms that are available to us, but like all intensive spiritual endeavors, requires preparation, orientation and guidance. Using these plants at lower doses, like microdosing daily with psilocybin mushrooms for treating depression and anxiety, offers great benefits for some people without the risks of the psychological, mental or emotional disruptions that can occur at higher doses. For more information, visit CrowConsultations.com or Floracopeia.com. Randy Kambic, in Estero, Florida, is a freelance editor and writer.

November 2021

inspiration

The Healing Power of a Hug by Marlaina Donato

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hen we were children, a hug helped to take the sting out of a skinned knee or quell first-day-of-school jitters. In adulthood, hugs are not as plentiful or practical; many people lack partners or loved ones, and the gesture—both giving and receiving—is too often labeled as sentimentality. As we continue to move through life with pandemic restrictions, hugs can feel risky at a time when we need them the most. A hug elicits a powerful shot of neurotransmitters like oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine, and we don’t necessarily need another human to reap the benefits. Wrapping our arms around a breeze-swept tree in the backyard or on a hiking trail can lower heart rate and set our brains abuzz with feel-good endorphins. Earlier this year, the forestry service in Iceland invited people to cuddle up to trees to offset COVID-19 isolation and get in a good dose of forest bathing. Scientific research, including a study from Carnegie Mellon University, backs what unapologetic huggers have always known: Even the most casual embrace can help to lower stress, boost immunity and promote a better night’s sleep. Cuddling up with a stuffed animal is a part of everyday life for many American adults. Befriending a plush toy is part of some trauma recovery programs and has a soothing effect on those navigating the dark waters of grief, loss and chronic anxiety. Snuggling up under a warm, weighted blanket is also akin to a hug, and has benefits much like the real thing. Holding and being held strengthens the body’s defense systems, as well as romantic partnerships, friendships and our relationship with ourselves. Opening our arms can foster the spiritual discipline of not only giving, but receiving—a vital requirement in self-care. In a time of chaotic uncertainty, isolation and change, hugs can be medicine; they can also be a powerful metaphor and reminder to remain open, willing and beautifully human. Marlaina Donato is a mind-body-spirit author and recording artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

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Intuitive & Healing Arts Healing Dance As ‘Conduit of Grace’

or Gigi Oppenheimer, dance isn’t simply an exercise, or even an art. It’s a powerful conduit of grace. “There’s no limit to what God can give and create in the heart through it,” she says. “I’ve witnessed this in so many wonderful ways, in my own life and others’, that I’m moved to share the blissful benefits with others. I want people to feel relieved, happy and free to blossom in the beauty of their own self-expression. That’s why I dedicate my heart and soul in service through White Lotus Grace.” At White Lotus Grace, in Millbrook, as well as through her online studio-sanctuary, Oppenheimer practices intuitive healing for body, mind, soul and relationships through organic, transformative movement and dance. She offers one-on-one services to couples and teaches classes, both virtual and in person. Gigi Oppenheimer “The healing dance classes I offer are very gentle and are intuitively channeled to meet each person with what they mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually need in the moment,” she says. “They combine a simple sequence of movement with intention, creating a practice that’s adaptable to individual aim and ability. Calming, comforting, invigorating, inspiring, transforming—healing dance carries such experience and more. It is essentially spiritual energy healing in motion, accessible to anyone.” She plans to expand her class offerings next year to include retreats. Her next intro class, Moving by Faith/Embodying Inner Trust, is scheduled for November 28. To register, visit WhiteLotusGrace.com. Location: White Lotus Grace, Millbrook, NY. For more info, call 845.677.3517 or visit WhiteLotusgrace.com.

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

ENERGY HEALING Elizabeth Pasquale, CST, NLP Bemer, Cranial, Lymph, NLP At home, office or remotely WellOnTheWay.org; 607.351.7024

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

Discover more healing resources on WakeUpNaturally.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 Intuitive Healing, Readings & Dance Millbrook + Virtual Sanctuary 845.677.3517 whitelotusgrace.com

NATURE & FOREST THERAPY Nature’s Whispers Guided Meditative Walks thru Nature Dutchess/Putnam/Westchester 845.489.7250 MeditativeWalks.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 November 2021

fit body

SACRED DANCE Moving into Divine Energy

viktoriia protsak/AdobeStock.com

by Marlaina Donato

eart-healthy dancing of all types is known to promote overall physical and mental health. When they are spirit-infused, forms like African, Middle Eastern, ecstatic and yoga-inspired kundalini dance offer us the opportunity to stay in shape while also fortifying the body’s intrinsic life force. Classes in these styles of dance, which are most often conducted barefoot, draw upon a deep cultural well and include the infectious heartbeat of live accompaniment. Just about anyone can find their own blissful groove when going with the flow is the focus. “In class, I choose to emphasize the feeling more than the step itself. The goal is always to get a spiritual release,” says Darian Parker, a Brooklyn-based West African dance teacher, professor and choreographer. “I always encourage my students to privilege ‘having a good time’ over succumbing to self-criticism from not perfecting a step.”

Modern Moves, Ancient Roots There are more than 3,000 ethnic groups on the continent of Africa, and each dance style has a purpose that is defined by its unique history. In the West African tradition, dances are designed to heal the individual and from the broader perspective, restore community. Parker, a faculty member of Cumbe: Center for African and Diaspora Dance, in Brooklyn, celebrates the culture and art of the Mande people. “In short, Mande dance trains your spirit just as much as it trains your body,” says Parker. “In many Mande cultures, the ground is thought to be the habitation of our ancestors, who are thought to animate our 34

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bodies when we dance. In this way, you can think of dance as a ritual technology that renews our connections with those who came before us.” While an African dance class encourages high energy and joyous expression, ecstatic dance can be a portal to self-discovery and connectedness. Springboarding from ancient societies worldwide, modern ecstatic dance is freeform and hallmarked by trance or tribal beats. “Ecstatic dance has offered me a portal to my subconscious, my spirit, my deep knowing. It’s a way to, as Gabrielle Roth, the creator of 5Rhythms, put it, ‘Get out of my head and into my body,’ and in my body there is wonderful wisdom,” explains Heidi Sheldon, a seasoned ecstatic dancer and licensed counselor in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. “Your spirit knows what to

do when it hears and feels the rhythms. You just need to allow your body to follow.”

Belly of Bliss, Heart of Light Middle Eastern dance is comprised of many dance styles—folk and tribal, classical and most widely known, belly dancing. In ancient times, the latter was practiced in rituals for fertile harvests and women’s fertility, including physical preparation for childbirth. In 2017, a pilot study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies showed that belly dance improves depressive symptoms, fatigue and quality of life in women with breast cancer. “Belly dancing is a tantric form of dance that empowers women to release shame and accept and love themselves and their bodies just as they are. The movements open us to pleasure and sensual bliss in our very own skin. In this way, it is very healing and therapeutic,” says Banafsheh Sayyad, a Persian dance artist and founder of the Dance of Oneness Academy, in Los Angeles. Sayyad’s movement, a fusion of Persian and Middle Eastern dance, flamenco, contemporary dance and meditative whirling, is deeply connected to an ancient feminine ethos. As a teacher, she brings the Sama—the dervish (pronounced “darvish” in Persian) dance of the Sufis historically reserved for men—into the hands of women.“In the traditional Sama, the right arm is extended up toward the sky with the palm facing up,” she says. “The left arm is extended out with the palm facing down toward the Earth. In so doing, you transmit and emanate the light you’ve received into the world through your heart. So, this dance is about becoming a channel for light and love in the world.” In essence, stepping into any dance class can be good for the soul. Sayyad reminds us, “Every movement and dance style, if done with the intention of surrendering one’s sense of separateness into an experience of the greater or dissolving one’s identity as a drop of water into the greater ocean of oneness, can be sacred.” Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com. November 2021

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natural awakenings

NETWORK New Yoga Studio Opens in Tuckahoe

rana, a new yoga studio opening in Tuckahoe this month, will be a “safe space” for anyone wishing to start or deepen their practice, as well as an engaged hub for healing and happiness in the community, says owner and instructor Amanda Alberico. “We strive to create a very down-to-earth, approachable vibe to the studio,” she says. “Sometimes yoga can be stigmatized to be an intimating practice and can deter Amanda Alberico people, which is unfortunate. At Prana we’re hoping to break that stereotype and create a safe space where people feel comfortable to explore and deepen their practice so they can get the full benefits of yoga. I am so excited to share the newly renovated studio with everyone.” Prana will host a grand opening celebration in early November, with the exact date to be announced. A lifelong resident of the Eastchester-Tuckahoe community, Alberico says she began practicing yoga after an injury. That turned out to be the first step of a life-changing journey, which has now culminated in the opening of her own yoga studio in the heart of the village of Tuckahoe. “I turned to yoga to rehabilitate my body, not realizing the profound effect it would have on healing my mind and soul,” she says. “I fell in the love with the practice and eventually became an instructor myself. I always dreamed of having my own space to have the opportunity to share the gift of this practice with others.” She says she envisions Prana as a means of giving back to her home community—not just by making yoga and its healing benefits accessible and non-intimidating, but also by hosting fundraising classes that support and bring awareness to worthy causes. Among the range of classes Prana will offer are vinyasa (various levels), hatha, yin and therapeutic yoga, and as well as energy healing/clearing services. “We want everyone to feel comfortable and find their style of yoga that suits them best,” Alberico says.

FITNESS

YOGA STUDIOS

Peak Life Holistics Holistic Wellness Coaching 13 Edgewood Dr., Somers, NY 914.301.3393 PeakLifeHolistics.com

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

CORTLANDT MANOR

QIGONG 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 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

YOGA ASSOCIATIONS

MAHOPAC

Yoga Society of New York Ananda Ashram Monroe, NY 845.782.5575 anandaashram.org

Luna Power Yoga Move. Sweat & Breathe 54 Miller Rd., Ste. 4 845.276.4619; lunapoweryoga.com

Yoga Teachers Association Workshops 2nd Sat. 1:30 pm Club Fit, Briarcliff Manor, NY and via Zoom yta_communications@ytayoga.com ytayoga.com

Putnam Yoga 30 Tomahawk Street Baldwin Place, Mahopac 845.494.8118 PutnamYoga.com

SOMERS

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

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

Location: Prana Yoga Studio, 62 Main St., Tuckahoe, NY. Info: 914.359.4298 or Pranayogany@gmail.com.

November 2021

MONTHLY PLANNER

DECEMBER

uplifting humanity

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 November 12 (for the December issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Email marilee@wakeupnaturally.com for guidelines on how to submit listings. No phone calls or faxes, please.

markyourcalendar

JANUARY

directory edition

Jikiden Reiki Shoden Level 1 Retreat Friday 11/12, 5pm – Sunday 11/14, 3pm Holmes Camp and Retreat Center 60 Denton Lake Road Holmes, NY 12531 Original, unaltered Reiki from Japan. Learn to feel, discern, and channel Reiki. Receive 4 activations. Learn history, principles plus Special Kekko technique, shirushi and supervised practice. All material provided by Jikiden Reiki Institute of Japan

New and reviewing students welcome. 12 spaces. Instructor: Anne Bentzen Certified Jikiden Reiki Teacher/Practitioner

MONDAY NOVEMBER 1

FEBRUARY heart-centered living

Pendulum Workshop – 5:30-7:30pm. Intro and deep dive class into the divinity and practical uses of pendulums. Bring a pendulum or purchase one at center. $40. 10% discount for early payment. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6-7pm. 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. Details. Info: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

learn about marketing opportunities at:

845-593-0065

Sound Bath Meditation – 6-7:30pm. Join Dragonfly Wellness Center’s Kendra and her rejuvenating sounds, and body and breath work to wash away the days stress. $40. 10% discount for early payment. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Wellness Walk – 1-3pm. With Nature’s Whispers. A Wellness Walk is not a hike or a workout; it’s a slow and silent walk to connect to nature with time to exchange feelings and thoughts in a talking circle. $30. Inner Circle Farm, Patterson. Register/Info: 845.489.7250, meditativewalks.com.

Map Out Your Beautiful Life – 5pm. With Joy Matalon. Self-explorative journaling, Imago dialogue and conscious communication enables group members to unearth intention, release the ego, feel heard, build empathy and discover community. Putnam Valley. Info: 914.519.8138, DropIntoYourBestSelf.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Welcome in the Goddess – 5:30-7:30pm. Learn about one’s inner goddess while learning about various goddesses. $40. 10% discount for early payment. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460. Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6-7pm. 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. Details. Info: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com. “New” Yin Yoga –7:30pm. Gentle Yin Yoga with Amy. $85/5 classes; $20/drop-in. 4 Crestview Ave, Cortlandt Manor. Info: UniversalHealingArts.com, 914.737.4325.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Jikiden Reiki Shoden Level 1 Retreat – 5pm. 11/12-11/14. With Anne Bentzen. Learn to feel, discern, and channel Reiki. Receive four activations, learn history, principles, plus Kekko technique, shirushi and supervised practice. All materials provided. Holmes Camp and Retreat Center, 60 Denton Lake Rd, Holmes. Register: Holmescamp.org, 845.878.6383.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Succulent Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshops – 11am. Create a one-of-a-kind fairytale succulent pumpkin centerpiece. Perfect for fall décor. Come To Your Scentses – Succulent Diffuser Bar. 1542 Route 52, Suite B, Fishkill. Info/register: 845.222.3220. cometoyourscentses.com. Reiki I & II Class Get Certified! –12:30-6pm. 11/13 & 11/14. Learn the ancient art of Reiki, hands-on healing, with Reiki Master & Teacher, Shima Chayvet. $375. Universal Healing Arts, Cortland Manor. Info: 914.737.4325, universalhealingarts.com.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Homeopathy Presentation at the WHN Meeting – Break the pain/illness cycle and experience health and vitality with Janice Solomon. Westchester Holistic Network: 7-8:30pm, Networking begins 6:30pm. �� Webinar Presentation. Free or $10. Pre-registration required: WestchesterHolisticNetwork.org.

Find more classes and events: WakeUpNaturally.com/calendar 38

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Krzysztof Slusarczyk/shutterstock.com

Beaver Full Moon Ceremony – 7:30pm. Gather the gifts of hard work, let go what doesn’t serve, renew the spirit of self-discipline and success. $10; under 12 Free. Universal Healing Arts, Cortland Manor. Info: 914.737.4325, universalhealingarts.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Spiritual Development: Part 2 – 12-2pm. If you missed the start of the 1st season join the new season. Part 2 dives deeper into who are one’s spirit guides and their functions. $40. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460. Sound Bath Healing – 6-7:15pm. Join Sekhem Sound Healer Marissa “Breathe” Dinki for a Relaxing sound healing meditation. $20. Universal Healing Arts, Cortland Manor. Info: 914.737.4325, universalhealingarts.com. Ayurveda and Diabetes – 7-8pm. Free online lecture with Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, an Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician. Available to the entire Putnam County Library System through Crowdcast. Registration required. Contact the library at 845.424.3020 or desmondfishlibrary.org.

Spiritual Development: Part 5 – 2:30-4:30pm. Part 5 of Spiritual Development Course defines elementals spirits and how to interact with them. Must take the previous four classes. $40. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6-7pm. 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. Details. Info: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

Follow Your Heart to the End of the Rainbow Part 1 Class – With Bernadette Bloom. Topics include: Advanced teaching on the autonomic nervous system; Healing techniques for covid and Healing from PTSD. Chappaqua or virtually via Zoom. Info: 239.289.3744; TheEsotericBloom.com.

Succulent Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshops – 6pm. Create a one-of-a-kind fairytale succulent pumpkin centerpiece. Perfect for fall décor. Come To Your Scentses – Succulent Diffuser Bar. 1542 Route 52, Suite B, Fishkill. Info/register: 845.222.3220. cometoyourscentses.com. Death Cafe – 7-8:30pm on Zoom. A Death Café is a group-directed conversation about death with no agenda, objectives, or themes. It is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counseling session. Free. Info: cfdhv.org/cfd-death-café.

Awaken Wellness Fair – 10am-5pm. Unique vendors, expert speakers, intuitive readers and gifted healers for a day of education and inspiration. Sleepy Hollow Hotel + Conference Center, 455 So. Broadway, Rte. 9, Tarrytown. Tickets/info: AwakenFair.com. Reshape Your Inner Landscape –11:15am12:15pm. Intuitive healing for transformation. Online class. $25. Info: 845.677.3517. WhiteLotusGrace.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24

Restorative Yoga & Meditation Class – 7-9pm. Rona Levine, advanced yoga teacher helps reduce stress on mind, body, energetically through yoga postures, breathing and meditation. Capacity 8, Balancing 4 Life, Suite 101, 25 Broadway, Pleasantville. Register: 914.588.4079.

Succulent Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshops – 4pm. Create a one-of-a-kind fairytale succulent pumpkin centerpiece. Perfect for fall décor. Come To Your Scentses – Succulent Diffuser Bar. 1542 Route 52, Suite B, Fishkill. Info/register: 845.222.3220. cometoyourscentses.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28

Rewilding Autumn Retreat – 11/19-11/21. With Kristy M. Vanacore, Psy.D. For women to honor the transition from fall to winter and activate a new personal and collective cycle of growth. West Lane Inn, Ridgefield. Info: 914.497.8006 or KMVGroup.org.

Moving by Faith/ Embodying Inner Trust – 11:15am-12:15pm. Intro class. With Gigi Oppenheimer. Beyond head to heart and every cell, feel what it feels like to move, breathe, and live firmly from within. Online class. $25. Info: 845.677.3517. WhiteLotusGrace.com.

Festival of Trees – 11/19-11/21. Walk through a winter wonderland of hundreds of decorated trees and raffle prizes and enjoy a unique shopping experience with artisanal vendors at the Festival Marketplace. The Summit at Danbury, 100 Reserve Rd, Danbury, Info: AnnsPlaceFestivalOfTrees.org. Beaver Full Moon Ceremony – 6-7:30pm. Invoke the goddess in a releasing circle ceremony. Local artisanal healing and metaphysical products. Free. Donation welcomed. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Ayurveda and the Winter Season – 7-8pm. Free online l e c t u r e w i t h D r. S o m e sh N . Kaushik, an Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician. Through the Pawling Free Library. Registration required. Contact the library at 845.855.3444 or pawlingfreelibrary.org.

markyourcalendar Succulent Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshops Create your own one-of-a-kind fairytale succulent pumpkin centerpiece! Perfect for your everyday fall décor.

November Dates:

Saturday 13th – 11am/ Thursday 18th – 6pm/ Wednesday 24th – 4pm.

Please call to Register for Workshops : 845.222.3220

Come To Your Scentses – Succulent Diffuser Bar

T/Th (12-5:30pm) F (10am-5:30pm) Sat. (10am-3pm)

Walk ins are always welcome! 1542 Route 52, Suite B, Fishkill, NY 12524

ComeToYourScentses.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2 End of the Year Cleansing Course with John Paul – 5:30-7:30pm. Rituals and routines to help wrap up the year and change or focus the momentum towards a positive, productive and peaceful new year. $40. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 Intro to Afro Caribbean Spirituality: part 1 with John Paul – 3-5pm. Historical in modern day practices of Afro Cuban spirituality. Part of a multicourse workshop. . $40. 10% discount for early payment. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: 914.737.3460.

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Awaken Wellness Fair LIVE! …Awaken to Your Best Self… So excited to be back in person!

with appropriate safety measures

Unique Vendors, & expert Speakers, intuitive Readers & gifted Healers for a day of education and inspiration!

November 21, 2021 10am to 5pm

Sleepy Hollow Hotel + Conference Center 455 So. Broadway – Rte. 9 Tarrytown NY 10591 :35 from GCT on Metro North

Tickets & Exhibitor info AwakenFair.com November 2021

on going events

Monkey Business Images/shutterstock.com

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

sunday Rye 2021 Down to Earth Farmers Market – 8:30am-2pm. 5/9-12/5. In the parking lot off Theodore Fremd Avenue, behind the Purchase Street stores. Info: DownToEarthMarkets.com. Salt Cave Qigong with Halotherapy – 9-10am. Sunday morning qigong in a Himalayan Salt Cave. $30. Pellegrino Healing Center, 4307 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park. Info: 845.233.5672. Pellegrinohealingcenter.com.

CBD Talk Show – 8pm. CBD Live Natural, in Bedford Hills, hosts a live talk show on Facebook and Instagram weekly to offer CBD info and details on the store’s products and their benefits. Info: 914.705.1111, CBDLiveNatural.com.

monday Virtual YogaShine for Adults – 9:15-10:45am. 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. Reiki Healing Circle with Laura DeToia – 4:305:15pm. Try reiki for the first time or just enjoy its universal healing energies in a group. Free. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. RSVP requested: 914.737.3460 Virtual YogaShine for Pre-Teens and 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.

thursday 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. 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 and additional information and resources.

friday New Rochelle 2021 Down to Earth Farmers Market – 9am-2pm (thru 11/19). Thomas Paine Cottage Museum, North Avenue and Broadview, New Rochelle. Info: DownToEarthMarkets.com. Gentle/Moderate Kripalu-based Yoga – 9:3011am. With Chris Glover. In-person and virtual. Gentle, nurturing, yet strengthening. Develops a calm nervous system and embodied awareness thru compassionate self-observation. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org.

Sound Bath & Breath Work – 7pm. Experience Sound Healing and Breath work, designed to relax mind and body with Marissa ‘Breathe’ 5 class. $75. Drop-in $20. Universal Healing Arts, Cortland Manor. Info: 914.737.4325, universalhealingarts.com.

Virtual Chair YogaShine, Super Gentle, for Senior Adults and Adults with Special Needs/ Health and Recovery concerns – 10-11am. Gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, Kripalu-based, developing curiosity, flexibility, and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class free. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitation: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com.

Beacon Farmers Market – 10am-3pm. May through Nov. 21. DMV parking lot, 223 Main Street, Beacon. Info: beaconfarmersmarket.org.

tuesday

saturday

Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market – 10am-2pm. Runs through Dec. Located outside at the municipal parking lot. Info: Rhinebeckfarmersmarket.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.

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.

Irvington Farmers Market – 9:30am-1pm. Through Nov 21. Main Street School parking lot, 101 Main St, Irvington. Info: irvmkt.org. Village of Tuckahoe Farmers Market – 10am4pm. Through end of November. Depot Square, 65 Main St, Tuckahoe. Info: tuckahoe.com.

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. Afternoon Tea & Meditation – 1pm. With Diane. Tea, conversation, guided Meditation followed by messages from tarot or oracle decks, good conversation and fun. Walk-ins welcome or by Zoom. $20. Angel Aura Spiritual Boutique, 12 W Main St, Pawling. 845.493.0432. AngelAuraBoutique.com. Sunset Tai Chi at Zfarms – 7:30-8:30pm. All levels class with Christopher Kiely, a tai chi and martial arts master with 25 years of experience. Free. Drop-in. Zfarms, 355 Poplar Hill Rd, Dover Plains. Info: 845.625.4798; ZFarmsOrganic.com; FallingWaterTaiChi.com.

Tai Chi & Qigong with Sifu Gary Renza – 7pm. Cultivate ‘life-force’ energy, strengthen body, mind, spirit, improve overall health. $20/ drop-in. Universal Healing Arts, Cortland Manor. Info: 914.737.4325, universalhealingarts.com.

wednesday 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. Experienced teacher. First class free. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitation: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Chappaqua farmers market – 8:30am-1pm. Thru Nov 20. Located at the South Lot, Chappaqua train station. Info: chappaquafarmersmarket.org. Larchmont 2021 Down to Earth Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm (04/24 - 12/18). At the front of the Metro-North upper lot, Chatsworth Ave/Myrtle Blvd. Larchmont. Info/updates: DownToEarthMarkets.com. Ossining Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm. YearRound. Near the corner of Spring and Main Streets. Info/updates: downtoearthmarkets.com. Hastings Farmer’s Market – 8:30am-1pm. Through Nov 20. Zinsser Commuter Lot, 131 Southside Ave. Information: hastingsfarmersmarket.org. Pleasantville Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm. Through Nov. Metro-North Parking Lot, 10 Memorial Plaza, Pleasantville. Information: pleasantvillefarmersmarket.org.

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month, $25 minimum. To place a listing, email content to Dana-NA@WakeUpNaturally.com. Deadline is the 12th of the month.

planetwatch

VENDORS EXHIBITORS for Westchester’s premier wellness event, the Awaken Fair on November 21, 2021. Register at AwakenFair.com and get massive exposure online, in print, emails etc. Info: AwakenUSA@aol.com.

VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERS – Be part of the amazing Awaken Wellness Fair on Nov. 21, 2021. Four hours of volunteer time gets free admission and a treasured Awaken tee. Info: AwakenUSA@aol.com. VOLUNTEERS needed for Fantastic Finds upscale, resale shop in Chappaqua, NY to benefit Support Connection. For information, call: 914.962.6402.

Peekskill Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Through Nov 20. One Bank Street, Peekskill. Info: 914.734.5192. John Jay Homestead Farmer Market – 9am2pm. Location: 400 Jay St, Katonah. Info: johnjayhomestead.org. Kingston Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. County Courthouse parking lot, entrances on John St and Wall St. Info: Kingstonfarmersmarket.org. 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. Salt Cave Group Yoga with Halotherapy – 9:3010:30am. Saturday morning yoga in a Himalayan Salt Cave. $30. Pellegrino Healing Center, 4307 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park. Info: 845.233.5672. Pellegrinohealingcenter.com. Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow Farmers Market, The TaSH – 9:30am-12:30am. Through Nov 20 Tarrytown Commuter Lot F (near Losee Field and the Tarrytown Marina. The TaSH returns weekly to Patriots Park on May 29. Info: tashfarmersmarket.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 – 11-12:15pm. With Kathleen Hinge. In-person and virtual. Learn gentle pose sequences, and embodied awareness. Suitable for new students and those with physical limitations or recovering from injury. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org.

November 2021 Astrology with Pamela Cucinell Decisive Movement

Perfectionism can get in the way of connection November 1; don’t dither and shortchange opportunity. Election Day leans toward fairness; fight for it, whether a ballot or life situation. Good results for projects finished by the afternoon of November 3. Set your intentions to slay your dragon at the November 4 Scorpio new moon; you’ll have time in the weeks ahead. Assistance flows November 5. Conversations and advantageous moments move at light speed November 6; run with them.

Cut to the Chase

Initiation and completion work best for early birds November 7; the rest of the day, prepare with care. Don’t cut corners November 8. Breakthroughs occur with hard choices November 9. Optimism and inspiration buoy November 10. Start and commit to new projects November 11. Dare to dream November 12; solutions take shape November 13.

Change Agents

Be alert November 14 because actions accelerate from all corners. Friction increases November 15 because desire conflicts with agenda. Discord increases November 16; choose your battles. Notice resistance November 17, because the release of attachments allows creative possibilities to percolate. Dynamic discussion November 18 brings to light transformational options.

Partial Eclipse

November 19, highlights innovation and inspires relationships; invite someone new into your life. Connections with neighbors, siblings and/or children stimulate fresh ideas November 20. Focus on important tasks the morning of November 21, and mark the rest of the day for ease and fun. Emotions run high November 22 and 23, so avoid eruptions through awareness and sensitivity, especially for yourself. Playfulness returns November 24; dress up and seek entertainment and lovely distractions.

A Holiday Season to Enrich

Give yourself and those you encounter slack when tension mounts on Thanksgiving, November 25; don’t bury the conflicts, but look for the gifts. On November 26, imagine with the eyes of a child fantastic possibilities; banish the naysayer. A methodical approach to an undertaking November 27 sets up momentum for bigger accomplishments. Powerful healing energy is available November 28 as Hanukkah begins. Discussions of all kinds—legal, romantic, business, etc.—gain fast traction November 29. Whatever obstacles surface November 30 cannot stop brilliant collaborations—make it happen. Pamela Cucinell offers a spiritual astrological perspective for the massive changes of our time, as well as guidance through private sessions and podcasts. For more information, contact her at 917.796.6026 or pamela@ insightoasis.com, or visit InsightOasis.com and ActiveSpirituality.Life. See ad page 32.

This lunar eclipse Taurus full moon, November 2021

community resource directory

BEHAVIORAL OPTOMETRY

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

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE KARLA BOOTH DIAMOND, MAMSAT

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.

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

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.

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 9.

AYURVEDA ADDICTION CESSATION

DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC

QUIT WITH QUINN

Yellow Monkey Village 792 Rte 35 Cross River, NY, and NYC Office: 914.875.9088; Cell: 646.670.6725 Drkaushik.com; drkaushik@drkaushik.com

Quit with Quinn helps people 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. 85% success rate. See ad pg 29.

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 10.

Briarcliff Manor and Midtown Manhattan Steve.healingny@gmail.com 914.473.2015; QuitWithQuinn.com

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.

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

LAURIE R. MALLIS, MD, LAC

SAMANTHA SLOTNICK, OD, FAAO, FCOVD

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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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 17.

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!

COACHING – EMPOWERMENT JANET CATALINA, MSW

Certified life coach Member WHN 914.548.8372: pulsemanifestation.com Empower yourself and create what you want in your life. Janet will coach you through this process as well as teach you a powerful technique to help you become a Master Manifester. Please call her to learn more.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY JOY MATALON LMT, CST

100 Executive Blvd Suite 203 Ossining, NY 914.519.8138; Joymatalon.com CranioSacral Therapy with a specialty in Somato Emotional Release and Process Acupressure allows chronic physical, emotional, and spiritual issues to be intimately explored bringing relief from pain and activating a healing process which continues after the session is over.

BE SEEN IN 2022 Coming in January

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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.

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.

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, high-tension wires and more. Moved into a new home? Want to sell? Have unexplained health issues? Call now!

ENERGY HEALING ANNE H. BENTZEN

Certified Jikiden Reiki Shihankaku Jikiden Reiki Teacher/Practitioner Custom BACH Flower Essence formulas, Energetic Counseling Locations: West Harrison, Scarsdale 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 32.

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.

BERNADETTE BLOOM

Energy Medicine Practitioner, Teacher, Medical Intuitive, Physical Therapist 239.289.3744; theesotericbloom.com Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Are you exhausted from pain, stress or PTSD? Balance your body’s energies for optimal physical health and emotional well-being with Esoteric Healing, a high vibrational technique from Tibet. See ad pg 35.

HEALTHY

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2021 Natural Living Directory Last Year’s Edition

KEEP ME ALL YEAR LONG

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition | WakeUpNaturally.com

2021

In Print and Online for 2022

• Affordable marketing in 2022 for your business. • Something for every marketing budget from $25 Classifieds to Full Page Display Ads. • Magazine distribution throughout Westchester, Putnam & Dutchess DEADLINE IS DEC. 10 Call Dana today to learn about the many advertising options with Natural Awakenings. Dana Boulanger, Marketing Director

Office: 845-593-0065 WakeUpNaturally.com November 2021

HERBAL MEDICINE

FACIALS NINA’S ELEMENTS TO BEAUTY

Stormville, NY (By Appointment Only) Nina Melahn, Esthetician/Reiki Master 845.857.0185; ElementsToBeauty.com Custom Facials, Beauty and Wellness Services. Offering Exclusive, Natural, Holistic Skincare, Beauty and Wellness Services, Exceptional Product Lines, Light Therapies, Lymphatic Drainage, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, Lash Lifts and Tints, Reiki Healing and more. Call or email for appointment: EstyNina24@gmail. com. $10 off first facial to new clients.

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.

FLOATATION THERAPY HOLISTIC DENTIST

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.

DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND 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 7.

HOMEOPATHY

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE SUSANNE SALTZMAN, MD

SUSANNE SALTZMAN, MD

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

Looking for a physician with 25 years of clinical practice using natural remedies? Expertise in treating acute and chronic illness in children and adults. Emphasis on homeopathic and functional medicine to decrease dependency on pharmaceutical drugs. If you want experienced, competent, compassionate, and exceptional care.

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

A healthy approach to beauty and wellness led by Maureen Toohey, Regional Educator for Organic Salon Systems. The fresh team is committed to making your experience fully complete and satisfying, organically. Receive a gift valued at $75 with your 1st color appointment, when you mention Natural Awakenings. See ad pg 23.

HYPNOTHERAPY LISA BLEASDALE, C.HT

Certified Hypnotherapist Somers, Ny 914.400.9508; lisableasdale.com Willpower often falls short. Hypnotherapy taps into the power of the subconscious mind to transform your life by creating positive changes. Lisa helps individuals with stress reduction, addiction, weight loss, smoking cessation, procrastination, overcoming fears, phobias, anxiety, grief, and divorce.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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INCONTINENCE ADVANCED REJUVENATION CENTERS Liviu B. Saimovici, MD 3020 Westchester Ave., Ste. 306 Purchase, NY; 914.500.9594 AdvancedRejuvenationCenters.com

Emsella is a revolutionary non-surgical treatment that improves incontinence. Patients sit, fully clothed, on the Emsella chair, nicknamed “Kegel-throne” can stimulate the pelvic floor with electromagnetic energy. One treatment can stimulate the equivalent of 11,000 Kegels. The Kegels can strengthen the muscles that control urinary retention.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PELLEGRINO INTEGRATIVE CANCER CENTER

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 12.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK SOULAURAS WELLNESS CENTER

Laura Giacovas,LMT, MS Ed., 4th Dan Master Instructor Taekwondo Briarcliff NY 914.941.2400, soulauras.com Our mission is to enhance wellness and quality of life through Therapeutic Massage and Integrated Holistic Healing. We are committed to providing an inspired, nurturing environment from which wellness and harmony can be realized.

MATTRESSES DAVIS FURNITURE

Open Mon-Sat. 10-6 2264 South Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 845.204.9090; DavisFurnitureOnline.com Do you want a healthier night’s sleep? Visit locally owned Davis Furniture and see their full line of all natural American-made mattresses. For over 90 years they have been giving their customers more, and charging them less. And they’ve once again been voted the best furniture store in the Hudson Valley. See ad pg 9.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA LYNN PARODNECK M.D.

Certified Medical Marijuana Practitioner 914.525.6536; DrParodneck@gmail.com DrLynnParodneck.com Evaluations and Consultations; D r. P a r o d n e c k w o r k s i n compliance with the New York State Compassionate Care Act. She is one of the leading medical marijuana clinicians in New York, with numerous referring specialists and an extensive professional network in the cannabis industry. See ad pg 29.

NATURE & FOREST THERAPY NATURE’S WHISPERS

Guided Meditative Walks thru Nature Dutchess/Putnam/Westchester 845.489.7250; MeditativeWalks.com Teaching people how to connect with nature through Walking the Trail Workshops – Wisdom Walks and Forest Bathing. Once a person becomes one with nature; plants, animals and magical creatures respond by giving answers to one’s questions and by providing healing.

NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR 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 include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. Clinic days: Monday-Friday. See ad pg 10.

NUTRITION NUSPECIES

coming next month...

Nuspecies.com 866.624.4117 Westchester. Long Island. Brooklyn. Jamaica, Caribbean NuSpecies Health Centers provide free health consultations with certified nutritionists/life coaches. We make custom recommendations of our Raw, Organic, Liquid, Natural nutritional formulas and then work with our clients until they achieve their health goals. See ad pg 4.

2021 Shopping Guide ORGANIC FARM CENTER SPACE ON RYDER FARM

406 Starr Ridge Rd Brewster, NY 10509 spaceonryderfarm.org; 646.833.8159 Roadside Farmstand open 24/7 SPACE on Ryder Farm is a nonprofit artists residency and certified organic farm founded in 1795 which produces 100% certified organic vegetables, flowers and herbs. Our roadside farmstand is open 24/7 through Thanksgiving. Cash, check and credit accepted.

PET RESCUE/ADOPTION STRAY HELP

PO Box 245, Fishkill, NY 12524 845.232.0336, strayhelp.org Stray HELP: a registered not-forprofit managed by volunteers. Our mission: rescue and care for stray and homeless animals while providing humane education to the community. Our vital community programs: Trap/ Neuter/Return, Spay clinics, adoption and working cat program, colony caretaker support.

PODIATRY KATONAH PODIATRY, PC

Pamela Hoffman, DPM Glenn B. Weiss, DPM 200 Katonah Ave., Katonah, NY 914.232.8880; Katonahpodiatry.com Foot care for people of all ages. Board certified holistic podiatrists who use a comprehensive, integrative approach. Customized treatments utilizing the best of today’s technology combined with nutrition and 30 years of experience.

Shop in person and online Be part of the December Shopping Guide and let 40,000+ Natural Awakenings readers discover your products and services. Limited Space Available. Secure your spot now.

Promote your products, services & gift certificates. Plus be part of our December Shopping Guide article.

DEADLINE NOVEMBER 10

Please visit our website to see all advertising specials: WakeUpNaturally.com For more information call:

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The next shopping guide will be May/June 2022.

November 2021

SLEEP DISORDER

REFLEXOLOGY LORRAINE HUGHES

ARCB Certified Reflexologist 263 New Hackensack Road, 2nd Floor Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 lorrainehughes54@gmail.com EmpoweredbyNature.net; 845.416.4598

DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND 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 7.

Foot and/or Hand Reflexology sessions are offered with the use of Essential Oils applied to acupuncture points based upon each individual’s presenting pattern. Please refer to Services page on web site for the many benefits of this ancient modality.

SPA BALANCE DAY SPA

REIKI REIKI CLASSES

Cynthia M Chase, LCSW, Reiki Master 860.395.0284; cynthiachase.com cynthiamchase@gmail.com Manifest yourself as a healer; fulfill your life’s purpose! Cynthia offers personalized classes leading to Reiki levels I, II and Master level. Go to cynthiamchase.com for details.

Westchester’s ONLY Certified Green Spa 280 Mamaroneck Ave., Suite 310, White Plains, NY 914.358.9898; balance-dayspa.com As Westchester County’s ONLY certified green spa, Balance Day Spa has been in business since 2010. We specialize in all aspects of esthetics, including: facials, peels, waxing, tinting, bronzing, aromatherapy, energy healing and makeup. All organic, all the time.

SPIRITUAL CENTER

RETREATS YOGA IN THE ADIRONDACKS

CHAPEL AT CROTON FALLS

2 Coulter Road, Bakers Mills, NY 12811 518.251.3015; 914.556.8258 yogaintheadirondacks.com

Rev. June Tompkins, Pastor 609 Rt. 22, Croton Falls, NY chapelatcrotonfalls.org

Yoga in the Adirondacks is nestled in the valley of the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, where yoga embraces nature. Connect your mind, body and spirit and explore your retreat with likeminded people to build a happier and healthier life. Studio available for your yoga/wellness private group as well.

Join a unique monthly Interfaith Sunday at the Chapel at Croton Falls at 10:30am – Enjoy prayer, music, movement and dialogue. Check our FB page for information on upcoming programs or e-mail Rev. June Tompkins at jtgleneidashore1@verizon.net.

SEXUAL WELLNESS MJB WELLNESS

Michael J Berkowitz Hypnosis/ Sexological Bodywork/ Reiki Kingston, NY; 845.481.3250 michaelberkowitz.com/mjbwellness/ Utilize the incredible power of the unconscious mind to make lasting positive changes in your life. Specializing in all sexual dysfunctions, plus shame, guilt, lack of desire. Working with both the mind and body to achieve your most fulfilling life.

TMJ DISORDER DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND 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 7.

VETERINARY HOSPITAL EARTH ANGELS VETERINARY HOSPITAL 44 Saint Nicholas Rd., Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 845.227.P-A-W-S (7297) Earthangelsvet.com

Where East meets West with compassionate care for a holistic approach to your pet’s health. Offering a wide range of services/ products including wellness exams, nutritional support, alternative cancer therapies, surgery, dentals, acupuncture, CBD products, pet boarding and more on our beautiful 9-acre facility.

WEIGHT LOSS QUIT WITH QUINN

Addiction-Free Naturally Briarcliff Manor and Midtown Manhattan Steve.healingny@gmail.com 914.473.2015; QuitWithQuinn.com Quit with Quinn helps people lose weight by overcoming addiction to sugar and white flour, and compulsive overeating. After treatment, most people experience indifference towards refined sugar, sweets and treats, leading to easy weight loss. 30 years experience. 85% success rate. See ad pg 29.

SUPPORT GROUP SUPPORT CONNECTION

Breast and Ovarian Cancer Support Services 914.962.6402; 800.532.4290 Supportconnection.org Support Connection provides free support services to people affected by breast and ovarian cancer. Services include: Oneon-one counseling (counselors are also cancer survivors); Support groups; Educational and wellness programs; Webinars; Social gatherings; Referrals; A national toll-free information and support hotline.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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WELLNESS CENTER SOULAURAS HOLISTIC WISDOM & WELLNESS CENTER 510 N. State Rd., Briarcliff, NY Soulauras.com

The practitioners of Soulauras are committed to providing an inspired, nurturing environment from which wellness and harmony can be realized. Services: Therapeutic Massage, Bodywork, Auricular Acupressure and Integrated Holistic Healing Services, Yoga, Reiki, Reflexology and Chakra Balancing.

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Natural Awakenings Directory Profiles for 2022 in the January Edition of Natural Awakenings

The Who’s Who of the Natural Living Community! Ideal for Wellness Practitioners, Authors, Food Providers, Centers (Wellness, Healing, Spiritual) and Nonprofits. Profiles will appear in a special section of Natural Awakenings Annual 2022 Natural Living Directory and on our website, providing you with maximum exposure all year long. Be featured in the only healthy lifestyle Directory in the region. The Directories will be distributed throughout Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess Counties and available online.

NEW FOR 2022 Longer Profiles and new questions. Each profile will be half a page long! ALL FOR ONLY $275. F

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CONTACT US BEFORE DEC. 10 to be part of the 2021 Natural Living Directory: 845-593-0065 • Dana-NA@WakeUpNaturally.com WakeUpNaturally.com

Rick & Carol Gabrielly, authors November 2021

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Natural Awakenings – Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess NY November 2021 Edition

Articles inside

SACRED DANCE

THE HEALING POWER OF A HUG

HEALTHY BRAIN STRATEGIES

DAVID CROW