Natural Awakenings – Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess NY Edition, October 2022

WESTCHESTER/ PUTNAM/ DUTCHESS EDITION

Publishers Dana Boulanger Marilee Burrell

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I’ve

always loved change—change of routines, change of perspective and, of course, change of seasons. Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year in the Hudson Valley. The leaves tend to peak in October, and the hiking and bik ing trails offer fabulous ways to connect with nature, my favorite pastime.

However, this October, I know I will be walking the trails with the spirit of my mother, Judy Johnson, who passed at the end of August. She was blessed to live 95 years and was thought of as a go-getter. She loved to dance; ballroom dancing was her passion. It was quite something to watch her glide gracefully across the floor to a waltz or effortlessly get into the groove of a Latin beat. It kept her young, and it was definitely one of her many joys.

Dana Boulanger Marilee Burrell

She would have loved reading the article in this month’s Fit Body section, “The Joy of Movement: Dancing Boosts Our Health and Happiness.” Like my mom, I also love to boogie, but instead of grand dance halls, you’ll find me in the kitchen instructing Alexa to turn up the volume as I “get down” while cooking something delicious and nutritious.

I told my mom when she was transitioning that I would meet her on the trail so she could finally walk with me and see what I see in nature. Funny thing is I think she’s too busy enjoying dancing in spirit and really loving finding her new groove. Although, she does cross my path often these days as a dragonfly or feather, which is comforting and makes me smile.

The theme of this month’s edition is Healthy Planet, and we have several great articles that I hope you will enjoy, including our feature, “Sustainable Sanctuaries: Supporting Human and Planetary Health at Home.” My home is definitely my sanctuary, and I try my best to create spaces that bring me joy. Yet in today’s world, we need to be mindful of electromagnetic fields, toxins, being eco-friendly, choosing sustainable products, and not shying away from upcycling.

In addition to being a resplendent season, autumn is also a great time to enjoy the harvest of root vegetables, like beets, which are packed with nutritional goodness. I plan to try several of the scrumptious-sounding recipes featured in the article in our Conscious Eating section on page 22.

It’s also a popular time of year for events and classes. Please check out our news briefs, starting on page 8, and our calendars, starting on page 42, for info about local happenings. Also be sure to visit our online calendar on our website, WakeUpNaturally.com, for even more classes and events. Most of all, enjoy life and pivot to what makes you happy.

“So whatever cycle of seasons we find ourselves in—from one identity to another, from innocence to maturity, from arrogance to humility, from codependence to individuation, from numbness to compassion, from apprentice to master, from master to beginner—we are being steadily prepared for the Fifth Season, being slowly stripped of our resistance to the Heavenly Pivot.”

– Mark Nepo

RIP Mom.

With gratitude,

Natural Awakenings is a network of holistic lifestyle magazines providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

21 SOFTWAVE THERAPY

Advanced Technology that Heals

22 FALL BEETS

Versatile Leaf-to-Root Eats

26 SUSTAINABLE SANCTUARIES

Supporting Human and Planetary Health at Home

30 REDUCING RADIATION RISKS

Ways to Lessen Electromagnetic Exposure

32 NADINE CLOPTON

on Advancing Regenerative Organic Agriculture to Health Care

34 GREEN SCHOOLYARDS

Concrete Jungles Become Natural Playgrounds

36 A HAPPY HALLOWEEN FOR PETS

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Nine Ways to Keep a Dog or Cat Safe

38 INVITING IN THE WILD

40 THE JOY OF MOVEMENT

Dancing Boosts our Health and Happiness

Sleepy Hollow SUP Witch Paddle

The third annual SUP Witch Paddle, featuring folks dressed as witches standup paddle boarding (SUP) on the Hudson River, takes place from noon to 4 p.m. on October 16 (rain date is Octo ber 23) at Horan’s Landing Waterfront Park, in Sleepy Hollow.

“There will be vendors, food, brews and spooky views,” says event organizer Tara Scheller, owner of Rivertowns SUP & Yoga. “Join the witches on the water or stroll along the riverwalk and watch the witches pass by.”

All paddlers must preregister to par ticipate; must where a costume, person al floatation device and leash; and must have SUP experience and be comfort able paddling on the Hudson. People can either bring their own board, PFD and leash or rent them. Kayaks are also welcome.

Scheller shares how she got the idea for the event: “It all started with a thought: ‘I run a SUP business and live in a village with a huge Halloween tourist season—maybe I should try to organize a SUP witch paddle.’ The first year, we had 16 people dressed as witches paddle boarding on the Hudson. The second year, we had over 50 witches on the river and many more spectators on the riverwalk. Well, here we are approach ing the third annual SUP Witch Paddle, and we’ve got a festival brewing.”

Cost: $30 (with own equipment); $45 (with rental). Location: Horan’s Landing Water front Park, 55 Elm St., Sleepy Hollow, NY. For more information, email Scheller at tara@rivertownssupyoga.com. To preregister, visit RiverTownssupYoga.com.

Quantum Healing & Wellness Center Now Open

TheQuantum Healing & Wellness Center, located at 175 East Main Street, Suite 202, in Mount Kisco, opened its doors in September, and owner Michelle Adams says she can’t wait to raise awareness of the new healing technol ogy they offer, the Energy Enhancement System (EESystem)—based on Nikola Tesla’s Scalar Wave/ Medbed technology—and to start helping heal the public.

“Give your body the energy to heal itself,” ex claims Adams. “Recharge your core energy base in minutes. Reverse aging. Reduce stress on the first visit. Rid your body of inflammation and nagging ailments—sometimes even overnight.”

Adams explains that the EESystem generates multiple bio-active life-enhancing energy fields, including scalar waves, which can allow cell regeneration, improve circulation and immune function, reduce inflammation, provide relief from pain, detoxify the body, el evate mood and assist in right/left brain balance for optimal meditation and sleep states, increasing cell membrane potential, mitochondrial and stem cell activity and energy levels for optimum function.

She also points out that this technology has been extensively researched for its multi tude of beneficial effects and recognized at dozens of medical, scientific and professional conferences worldwide.

“This amazing ‘energy spa’ system is used by individuals, families, doctors, therapists, researchers, nutrition companies, veterans and veterinarians, as well as meditation and wellness centers to support all manner of physical, mental and spiritual development and well-being,” shares Adams, who also mentions that it is not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical services.

For more information, call 914.218.3428, email info@quantumhealingandwellnesspma.com or visit QuantumHealingAndWellnesspma.com. See ad, page 9.

Walktoberfest Farmers and Makers Market

The Hudson Valley Rail Trail and the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park are hosting the Walkto berfest Farmers and Makers Market—a celebration of the bounty of the Hudson Valley, featuring a curated selection of the area’s finest producers—on October 1 and 2, from noon to 5 p.m. With more than 120 vendors located throughout the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and the Walkway’s Ulster Welcome Center Pla za, Walktoberfest will feature not only farm-fresh products; food from local restaurants; and beer, wine, spirits and cider samples in a designated tasting area, but also art installa tions, live music, locally made goods, a special area for children’s activities and more.

Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park and the Hudson Valley Rail Trail will remain open and accessible at no cost as usual throughout Walktoberfest.

Cost: General admission (excluding the tasting area) is free. Tickets for the tasting area are $25 for those ages 21 and older and include full access to beer, wine, spirits and cider samples from more than 20 area purveyors. Discounted admission is available for Walkway members, veterans, active-duty military and senior citizens 65 and older. Children do not need a ticket to enter the tasting area when accompanied by an adult. For more informa tion, including a full list of vendors, or to purchase tickets, visit Walkway.org/Walktoberfest.

SUP Witch Paddlle last year.

IonCleanse Footbath Now Available at Holistic Health Care

Holistic Health Care, in Eastchester, has recently added the Ion Cleanse footbath detoxi fication system, by AMD, to its list of services, and practice owner Dr. Louis Castaldi says that patients are loving it. “Eliminating toxins is the first step in giving the body a chance to heal itself. Cleansing is fundamental to any health-building program. Relax for 20 to 30 minutes in our IonCleanse footbath and feel the results,” says Castaldi, a holistic chiropractor, certified applied kinesiologist and advanced clinical training graduate of Nutrition Response Testing.

Castaldi says that they are running a special limited-time 10 percent discount on one’s first IonCleanse footbath session.

“At Holistic Health Care, our mission is to help you achieve optimal health, naturally through detoxification, chiropractic and nutrition,” explains Castaldi, who has been in practice since 1998. “As a natural and holistic doctor, I combine the power of Nutri tion Response Testing, designed clinical nutrition, chiropractic adjustments and various applied kinesiology treatment proce dures to restore my patients’ health and well-being. The key is getting to the root of their health problems.”

Location: Holistic Health Care, 440 White Plains Rd., Ste. 200, Eastchester, NY. For more information, call 914.202.8633 or visit DrCastaldiHolisticHealthCare.com. See ad, page 31.

Time to Celebrate New York Cider

Cider Week New York will be celebrated statewide September 29 through October 9. Events will include cider tast ings, orchard tours, chef and cider pairings, cider markets and more.

“Celebrating Cider Week New York is a great way to support small business, taste one of New York’s premium agricultural products, and enjoy all the iconic flavors and experi ences the fall brings to New York,” says Scott Ramsey, executive director of the New York Cider Association, the organization that produces the event, which has been celebrated for more than 10 years.

“The exciting growth of New York State’s cider industry has strong roots in the Hudson Valley’s 350-year history of commer cial apple growing,” says presenting sponsor Dutchess Tourism Inc. President and CEO Melaine Rottkamp. “New York Cider Week is a chance for us to celebrate the ‘keepers of the craft’

and the way their passion and skill elevates our Hudson Valley ingredients. We invite everyone to check out our new Dutchess Tourism Taste Finder craft beverage pass which features three of our fantastic Dutchess County orchard cideries.”

Hudson Valley region participating cideries include: Angry Orchard Cider House, Brooklyn Cider House, Doc’s Hard Ciders, Graft Cider, Hudson North Cider Co., Hudson Valley Farmhouse Cider, Merchant’s Daughter Cider, Naked Flock Hard Cider, Or chard Hill Cider Mill, Original Sin Cider, Pennings Farm Cidery, Rockland Cider Works and Treasury Cider at Fishkill Farms.

For more information on where to celebrate and to be kept in the loop on the full listing of events, sign up at CiderWeekNewYork. com. Also visit NewYorkCiderAssociation.com.

5X Collagen Peptide Serum is Available at Hilda Demirjian

Hilda

Demirjian, founder of Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center, in White Plains, says she is pleased to announce the release of Maja Gold Col lagen Peptide 5X Treatment, the latest product in her botanically derived, all-natural, cruelty-free skin care line.

“Your skin will love this new, revolutionary collagen peptide 5X product. It delivers five times more collagen and peptide to skin,” says Demirjian, who has been creating research-based skin care products with 100 percent botanical ingredients, including fruit stem cells, since 1996.

The product combines the luxury of precious metals, platinum and gold, with the efficacy of peptides, says Demirjian. “These extremely effective anti-aging peptides act as collagen boosters by affixing to platinum and gold carrier particles to create a unique delivery system,” she explains. “Peptide conjugation is a giant step forward in traditional free-peptide technology because it offers better performance, higher stability.”

For maximum results, Demirjian highly recommends that this product be used after application of her Collagen-Elastin Gel with Apple Stem Cells.

The product’s key ingredients include: Centella asiatica (gotu kola) extract—antioxidant; Calendula officinalis (calendula) extract—hydrating, moisturizing; Chamomilla recutita (chamo mile) extract—antioxidant, cell renewal; Arnica montana (arnica) extract—anti-inflammatory, soothing; and Ananas sativus (pine apple extract)—natural alpha hydroxy acid content, cell renewal, moisturizing.

Available at Hilda Demirjian Laser and Skin Care Center, 34 S. Broadway, Ste. 607, White Plains, NY, and on Amazon. For more in formation, call 914.374.1756 or visit HildaDemirjianLaser.com. See ad, page 9.

Maja Gold Collagen Peptide 5X Treatment

Upcoming Personal Growth Events at Drop into Your Best Self

Joy Mata lon, LMT, CST, who special izes in mind-body integration and healing, and Dr. Erica War ren, who specializes in adult learning and educational psychol ogy, are the cofounders of Drop into Your Best Self, a Putnam Valley-based prac tice offering events designed to cultivate one’s best self. They have three upcoming events, from 10 a.m. to noon: Resting in Your Truth on October 7, Compassion on November 4 and Embody Your Best Self on December 2.

“In an uplifting environment of cradling swings and rocking platforms, participants will have practice accessing and cultivat ing their best selves. Then multisensory methods help integrate new intentions,” says Matalon, who offers CranioSacral Therapy and massage therapy in Ossining and Garrison.

These events aspire to inspire, guide and support participants in the process of becoming complete, says Matalon. They offer facilitated activities, discussions, vid eos and meditations to support personal growth. She adds that self-explorative journaling, imago dialogue and conscious communication enable participants to soften their ego, feel heard, build empathy and discover community.

Matalon is certified in CranioSacral Therapy, SomatoEmotional Release and Process Acupressure and has more than 30 years’ experience in meditation and bodywork. Warren has a doctorate in adult education and a master’s in educational psychology, and 25 years’ experience teaching and facilitating with the aim of helping people maximize their potential.

Location: Drop Into Your Best Self, 43 Lakefront Rd., Putnam Valley, NY. For more information, call 914.519.8138, email jmatalon@optonline.net, or visit JoyMata lon.com or DropIntoYourBestSelf.com.

Opportunities Abound for Holistic Practitioners at Awaken Fair

There will be plenty of opportunities for holistic practitioners to build (or rebuild) their busi nesses at the Awaken Fair on November 20 at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel and Conference Center, in Tarrytown.

“Here is the premier chance for tri-state holistic businesses to connect with hundreds and hundreds of eager, interested people, looking for the natural, the innovative, the true path to a good life,” says Paula Caracappa, founder and CEO of the recurring mind, body, spirit wellness event. “With a 20-year-plus reputation for providing businesses a viable platform for presenting their product or services to a truly focused audience, the Awaken Fair is a professional, supportive environment for businesses to connect with their perfect clients.”

Practitioners can choose from a variety of exhibitor categories to best grow their businesses, whether as a vendor, speaker, reader or healer—or a combination, explains Caracappa. “Each opportunity is rich with possibilities to grow a successful business.”

She is anticipating a large turnout for the fair. “Everyone can feel the energies ramping up so much this fall,” says Caracappa. “More and more people are awakening to seek a different and better life—they are searching for answers. It’s going to be a powerful fall.”

Location: Sleepy Hollow Hotel and Conference Center, 455 S. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY. For tickets and more information, including vendor and speaker opportunities, call 914.422.1784 or visit AwakenFair.com. See ad, page 10.

Sacred Shamanic Ceremonies and Teachings Weekend Retreat

Yima Healing is hosting a weekend of sacred sha manic ceremonies and teachings at their retreat center, in Putnam Valley, starting at 2 p.m. on October 22 and finishing at 2 p.m. on October 23. The cost of the event includes lodging and food. The number of participants allowed is extremely limited, so those interested in attending are ad vised to register soon.

“During our time together, you will experience the healing power of several sacred shamanic rites, including shamanic journeying, a despacho and the band of power,” says Mojan Javadi Clarke, founder of Yima Healing and a shamanic energy medicine practitioner and holistic coach. “All three ceremonies come from a long lineage of medicine workers and Shipibo shamans.”

Clarke explains that shamanic journeying is an important part of shamanic practice whereby one is able to visit one’s past and future to gain wisdom, insight and guidance through rhythm and music. She describes the despacho ceremony as being an act of love and a reminder of the connection we share with all beings, elements, spirits and sacred places. Finally, the band of power, she says, is a sacred shamanic rite for self-protection and empowerment.

“Together, we will celebrate these powerful ceremonies, dance under the stars, connect with the Earth and experience the powerful magic of a shamanic fire ceremony,” adds Clarke.

Cost: $444. Location: Yima Healing, Putnam Valley, NY. To register, call 914.771.1694, email info@ yimahealing.com or visit bit.ly/3SdRBHV. For more information, visit YimaHealing.com. See ad, page 19.

Joy Matalon

Mojan Javadi Clarke

Your CBD Store Franchises Flourishing

It was just two years ago when the first Your CBD Store franchise opened in our area. Since then, two more have been es tablished, with a fourth expected to be up and running in Rye this month. Judging by this quick growth, it’s safe to say this brand is in demand.

“Your CBD Store in Mt. Kisco is celebrating their second anniversary on Friday, October 28, from 3 to 6 p.m.,” exclaims owner Cathy Parlitsis, who is so thankful for her loyal customer base. “Stop in for samples, refreshments, discounts and more. Come in to spin the prize wheel, and, of course, we will have our famous swag bags for all attendees.”

Husband and wife team Yvette and Jose Sanchez are the owners of the other two Your CBD Store franchises. They opened their Wappingers Falls location last year, and because of the great reception, de cided to open another in White Plains.

Your CBD Store is the world’s largest brick-and-mortar cannabidiol retailer, with more than 600 locations. This retailer only sources U.S.-grown hemp and only sells products that are third-party lab tested and certified USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) organic.

Locations: Your CBD Store, 222 E. Main St., Mt. Kisco, NY; 1582 Rte. 9, Wapping ers Falls, NY; and 365 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NY. For more information, call 914.276.5409, email cbd@your cbdstoremtkisco.com. See ad, page 17.

Bedford 2030 to Host Clean Ride and Drive Expo

Bedford

2030 is hosting a free Clean Ride and Drive Expo to celebrate clean transportation on October 2, from noon to 3 p.m., at the Bedford Hills depot. At tendees will have the opportunity to check out the latest electric vehicle (EV) models, including the all-electric F-150 and the newly released Rivian. They will also get to step onto a fully electric school bus and an all-electric Bee-Line bus, meet local bike shops and learn from local EV owners—all while enjoying live music and delicious food.

“The expo will provide accessible infor mation and actions we can all take to make the switch to clean, fossil-free transportation,” explains Bedford 2030 Program Director Mariah Okrongly. “Forty-eight percent of the greenhouse gas emissions polluting our community come from the transportation sector.”

Local car dealers will be showcasing the latest electric models from Ford, Volvo, Audi, Chevy and more. Attendees will have an opportunity to check out these clean-drive cars up close and personal; ask questions about range, cost and rebates; and learn how they compare to gas-powered models in terms of ride and performance.

“Our goal is to demonstrate the cost, environmental and performance benefits of today’s electric vehicle options, so when it’s time for someone to purchase or lease a new car, they will have all the information they need to make the switch to a fossil-free, cleandrive alternative,” says Okrongly.

Location: Bedford Hills depot, 46 Depot Plaza, Bedford Hills, NY. For more information, call 914.620.2411, email info@bedford2030.org or visit Bedford2030.org.

Jazz at the Gallery in Mount Kisco

Life Energy Arts Gallery, in downtown Mount Kisco, is hosting Jazz at the Gallery from 3 to 5 p.m. on October 22. This casual event will include Peter Muir at the piano playing a combination of early jazz, ragtime and classical music.

“It’s sure to get you singing and tapping your toes as you enjoy good company, refreshments and the beautiful surroundings of the gallery,” says Karla Booth, director of the gallery, which now offers online workshops, classes and tours, as well as visits by appointment.

Muir is an accomplished musician and vocal ist who was classically trained and fell in love with ragtime and jazz in his early 20s. He has played on Broadway and in numerous concerts and gigs world wide, says Booth, who adds, “His love of music is infectious.”

Life Energy Arts is a stunning gallery of photographs and paintings focusing on the work of internationally renowned holistic healer John Diamond, M.D., who was a world leader in using the arts for well-being. All his artwork was created with the intention of being healing for those viewing his work.

Location: Life Energy Arts Gallery, 11-13 E. Main St., 2nd Fl., Mount Kisco, NY. For more in formation, call 914.335.3800, email karla@lifeenergyarts.com or visit LifeEnergyArts.Gallery.

Peter Muir

Rich Hargrave at the owner’s corner displaying his Tesla Model Y

Cathy Parlitsis at the Mt. Kisco store

Wisdom from the Council of Rocks Walk

Michael Gulbrandsen, founder of Nature’s Whispers, will host another Wisdom Walk on October 23, from 1 to 3 p.m., at Inner Circle Farm, in Patterson.

During these walks, Gulbrandsen shares mindfulness meditation techniques to help attendees observe the details of the natural world. Additional guided walks are scheduled for November 13, December 11 and January 15.

“Walking in harmony with nature expands your awareness, so you can relax and reduce your anxieties and stresses,” shares Gulbrandsen. “If you are unclear as to what your next move might be or can’t find an answer, no matter how many times you go over the issue, then a Wisdom Walk can help.”

According to Gulbrandsen, by asking nature a question, we can see the signs, omens and wisdom that nature is offering us and learn to read them. “Once a person becomes one with nature, plants, animals and magical creatures respond by giving answers to one’s questions.”

Each walk starts with a grounding ceremony, explains Gulbrandsen. Then, participants will be taught how to ask a question, so they get a clear answer and instructed on how to interact with nature, so they can see the signs. “After the walk, we will come together to share the wisdom that nature has put out to you and under stand its signs,” he adds.

Cost: $30. Location: Inner Circle Farm, 40 White Hawk Trl., Patterson, NY. For more information, contact Gulbrandsen at 845.489.7250 or walkingthetrail16@gmail. com. Also visit MeditativeWalks.com.

Boulder Council in Patterson

Cordyceps Sinensis Enhances Performance in Distance Runners

A Himalayan fungus that has long been used in Tradi tional Chinese Medicine, Cordyceps sinensis, at tracted global attention in 1993 when Chinese athletes broke world records in track and field. To study its ef fects, Brazilian researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in which they gave 30 amateur marathoners two grams of the fungus each day for 12 weeks. Compared to the placebo group, those in the Cordyceps group had significantly lower heart rates at eight weeks and improved aerobic performance at 12 weeks.

Viewing Art Online Improves Well-Being

Art and music have long been said to soothe the sav age soul, and hundreds of studies have shown that people’s moods and sense of well-being are improved by everything from artwork dis played in mental institutions and offices to regularly visiting art museums.

With the pandemic, many museums began offering extensive online tours and exhibits, and a new study from the University of Vienna suggests that online art can have the same effect as “real life” art.

Malignant Melanoma Linked to Seafood Consumption

Eating higher amounts of fish, specifically tuna and non-fried fish, appears to increase the risk of malignant melanoma, according to a Brown University study of 491,367 U.S. adults published in the journal Cancer Causes and Con trol. Examining 15 years of data, the researchers found that compared to subjects with a median daily fish in take of .11 ounces, those with a me dian daily intake of 1.5 ounces had a 22 percent higher risk of malignant melanoma and a 28 percent increased risk of melanoma in situ, characterized by abnormal cells in the outer layer of the skin. “We speculate that our findings could possibly be attributed to contaminants in fish, such as polychlori nated biphenyls, dioxins, arsenic and mercury,” says study author Eunyoung Cho, an associate professor of derma tology and epidemiology. Pending further research on the underlying biological mechanisms, the authors did not recommend any changes to fish consumption.

Researchers tested 84 individuals that viewed Monet’s The Water Lily Pond and also photographs of a Japanese bento box that included information on its traditions and food preparation, such as might be found in a history museum. Participants typically spent one to two min utes with each viewing. Follow-up questionnaires found that even a short online experience encouraged positive states like serenity, happiness and stimulation, while also lowering negative states like fear, anger, anxiety and loneli ness. Well-being effects are most pronounced, wrote the authors, when “such content is beautiful, meaningful and inspires positive cognitive-emotional states in the viewer.”

Probiotic May Increase Skin Moisture

Dry skin can afflict people at any age, particularly those living in dry climates, and it is commonplace in older people due to the natural loss of oil glands.

Japanese researchers have found a possible solution: a probiotic originally ferment ed from a Southeast Asian rice-and-fish dish that boosts skin moisture within weeks. In a double-blind study, they tested 80 middleaged adults with a supplement of heat-killed Lactiplanti bacillus plantarum probiotics for 12 weeks. They found the supplement significantly increased skin water content and reduced transepidermal water loss in the face, particularly for seniors and those with the driest skin.

Oksana/AdobeStock.com

photo by NutraIngredients.com

Save the Sequoias

The U.S. Forest Service is speeding efforts to protect giant sequoias from wildfires; almost 20 percent of the ancient trees have been destroyed by wildfire in the last two years. They will thin the forest in and around sequoia groves by removing brush and smaller trees from 13,000 acres of national forest to protect 12 giant sequoia groves this summer and conduct prescribed burns using the agency’s emergency authority under the National Environmental Policy Act. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore says, “With out urgent action, wildfires could eliminate countless more iconic giant sequoias.”

Giant sequoias can live for more than 3,000 years and are found only on the western slopes of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. The trees are adapted to fire with thick, spongy bark, and the heat releases seeds from their cones, allowing young trees to take root in areas cleared by fire. A policy to put out wildfires as quickly as pos sible has created unnaturally dense forests and allowed brush and dead wood to accumulate. Climate change has led to hotter temperatures, severe drought, a year-round fire season and the proliferation of bark beetles that have killed the drought-weakened trees. Bigger, hotter fires are more likely to reach giant sequoias’ crowns, killing them.

Global Network of Artists Addresses Climate Change

The World Weather Network is an international coali tion of 28 arts organizations that believe artists and writers should be a larger part of the dialogue sur rounding climate change. A creative team at each weather station will conduct local programming on the ground and post “weather reports” on the network website over the course of the year. Project organizer Michael Morris of Artangel (UK) says, “We want to see what happens when artists and writers start to use their imagination and lateral kind of abilities to think through something which is difficult to think about.” The project will continue through June 2023.

The Fogo Island, Newfoundland, weather station that sits in the Labrador current, an “iceberg alley” along which melting ice travels, is focused on three different ecosystems. Other stations are located in Peru and London, where visitors can interact with a sound instal lation called A Thousand Words for Weather at the Senate House Library. One thousand words in 10 lan guages describing various weather terms were record ed and the weather outside the building as reported by live updates alters the mix, velocity and volume, so that on any day the experience will be completely different.

Monarch Butterfly Now Officially Endangered

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species numbers 147,517 species, including 41,459 that are threatened with extinction. The latest update adds the migratory monarch butterfly, a subspecies of the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). In the past decade, the native population has shrunk by between 22 percent and 72 per cent during winter migrations from Mexico and California to summer breeding grounds throughout the U.S. and Canada due to logging and deforestation for agriculture and urban development. Pesticides and herbicides kill butterflies and milkweed, the host plant that the larvae of the monarch butterfly feed on. Drought related to climate change limits the growth of milkweed and increases the frequency of catastrophic wildfires, and temperature extremes trigger earlier migrations before milkweed is available, while severe weather has killed millions of butterflies.

Possible remedies are planting native milkweed, reducing pesticide and pro tecting the overwintering sites. IUCN Director General Dr. Bruno Oberle says, “To preserve the rich diversity of nature, we need effective, fairly governed, protected and conserved areas alongside decisive action to tackle climate change and restore ecosystems. In turn, conserving biodiversity supports communities by providing essential services such as food, water and sustainable jobs.”

Decontaminating Water with Plant Waste Protein

Scientists have created a membrane using sunflower and peanut oilseed meal that shows potential as a cheap, low-power, sustainable and scalable method to decontaminate heavy metals from water. As published in the journal Chemical Engineering, a research team led by Professor Ali Miserez, of the Nanyang Technological Uni versity (Singapore) School of Materials Science and Engineering and School of Biological Sciences, and visiting Professor Raffaele Mezzenga, from the Depart ment of Health Science and Technology at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technol ogy, discovered that proteins derived from the byproducts of peanut or sunflower oil production can effectively attract heavy metal ions. They demonstrated that the process of attraction called adsorption is able to purify contaminated water to a degree that meets international drinking standards.

Miserez says, “Water pollution remains a major global issue in many parts of the world. Heavy metals represent a large group of water pollutants that can accumulate in the human body, causing cancer and mutagenic diseases. Cur rent technologies to remove them are energy-intensive, requiring power to op erate, or are highly selective in what they filter. Our protein-based membranes are ... viable for use throughout the world, and especially in less-developed countries.” They are exploring commercial applications with the water filtration company BluAct.

coming in the november issue

MENTAL HEALTH & WELL-BEING

PLUS : SHOPPING GUIDE

Mojan

Clarke

The Helpful Nature of Houseplants

Nestled among books on a shelf, soaking up sunlight by a kitchen window or filling the bare corner of a living room, nothing adds beauty and interest to a home quite like a living plant. Bringing nature indoors also has numerous human health advantages.

Benefits of Houseplants

They oxygenate the air. We inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, while plants do the opposite during photosynthesis. This makes them ideal air fresheners. At sundown, when photosynthesis stops, most plants go back to absorbing oxygen and releasing CO2, except for orchids, succulents and bromeliads, making them wonderful bedside companions.

They eliminate toxins. Studies have shown that plants filter indoor air, removing volatile organic compounds like benzene, xylene, toluene, trichlo roethylene, ammonia and formalde hyde, which are commonly found in furniture adhesives, paints, carpets, chemical cleaners and craft supplies.

They humidify the indoor environ ment. Through a process called transpiration, moisture travels from plant roots to small pores on the underside of leaves, where it changes to vapor and is released into the air. In arid climates and during winter, this creates a favorable indoor atmo sphere that decreases dry skin, colds, sore throats, dry coughs and even the transmission of the flu virus.

They enhance our mood. Research shows indoor plants boost our mental health. One study found that viewing plants while recovering from surgery

led to physiological improvements by lowering blood pressure and reducing the perception of pain, anxiety and fatigue. Also, the act of taking care of plants has been shown to be emo tionally helpful.

They help with productivity. Plac ing a philodendron by the computer might be a good idea, as a number of studies have shown that being close to nature improves concentration, memory and productivity.

Pet-Friendly Varietals

Some plants can be toxic to dogs and cats, but here are a few that are per fectly safe for our furry best friends: rattlesnake plant, spider plant, parlor palm, ponytail palm, African violet, bird’s nest fern, Venus flytrap, Boston fern, polka dot plant, orchid, staghorn fern, bromeliad, date palm and herbs.

Maintenance Tips

Watering: Over- or under-watering are the most common houseplant kill ers, but there are easy fixes. One is a relatively inexpensive moisture meter that helps monitor hydration levels in a planter. Or simply stick a finger into the soil and add water only when it is dry one inch below the surface.

Low-light choices: Many plants thrive indoors with partial, indirect sunlight, and some are low-light tol erant, including lucky bamboo, spider plant, pothos, snake plant, staghorn fern, English ivy, peace lily, maiden hair fern, philodendron, anthurium, corn plant and dragon tree.

therapy

SoftWave Therapy Advanced Technology that Heals

by George Gertner, DC

(3,355 mph) than in air (767 mph), it does not cause microtrauma.

The SoftWave Therapy stimulates new stem cells, increases circulation and breaks up scar tissue and/or painful calcifications. Most patients experience relief as soon as their first 15-minute treatment and are expected to complete the entire treatment plan in about six visits.

Clinical studies show Regenerate Soft Wave Therapy has a proven 91 percent success rate while offering a drug-free, injection-free and surgery-free approach to ending patients› pain.

Scientists created this patented Soft Wave Therapy by using various lens configurations to produce safe, regenera tive and healing soft pressure waves within the body. The results include a dramatic reduction of inflammation in the body as new, healthy stem cells are encouraged to grow.

Thousands of patients have experienced relief from conditions such as:

• Diabetes

• Joint pain, such as that found in the shoulder, knee, elbow, etc.

• Chronic back pain

• Acute pain from wounds, including burns

• Numbing or tingling

• Tennis elbow

In March, SoftWave Therapy of New York, the first Westchester-based SoftWave center, opened its new facili ties in White Plains. SoftWave Therapy is patented; FDA cleared; and offers painless, fast healing for inflammation, chronic pain, diabetes and all joint issues.

SoftWaves are created by means of a high-energy electrical discharge in water. The voltage is discharged between the opposing tips (plus and minus poles) of an electrode. The arcing or spark gap causes an equalization of voltage between the two

tips of the electrode whereby a hot plasma bubble is created. This bubble explodes in all directions, compresses the surround ing water, and generates a pressure greater than 10 MPa within only a few nanosec onds (10-9 ns).

SoftWave low-intensity unfocused en ergy is delivered via the patented parabolic reflector applicator in the form of paral lel waves. SoftWave technology offers the only unfocused shock wave on the market. Despite this electrohydraulic shock wave energy in water traveling five times faster

• Torn ligaments

• Heel spurs/plantar fasciitis

George Gertner, DC, is the owner and director of SoftWave Therapy of New York, located at 311 North St., Ste. 410, in White Plains, NY. Gertner is a family man, healer, philanthropist, author of The Gift of Hope, public speaker and founder of one of the world’s busiest upper cervical chiroprac tic clinics. To book an appointment, call 914.686.6200. For more information, visit SoftWaveny.com. See ad, page 55.

Dr. George Gertner

Fall Beets

VERSATILE LEAF-TO-ROOT EATS

by April Thompson

Versatile, nutritious, colorful and flavor ful, beets are quite the package deal. This easy-togrow, multi-season vegetable is packed with nutrition and plays well with other ingre dients. Beets can be enjoyed raw, roasted, boiled or pickled. They can be blended into quick dips, thin-sliced for healthy chips or incorporated into desserts for a mild, sweet flavor and bold color.

“Beets have been a staple ingredient on our vegetarian menus for generations. They are an easy way to add natural sweetness and gorgeous color to so many dishes, both savory and sweet,” says Danica Wilcox, owner of the Moosewood Restaurant, in Ithaca, New York, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary next year. The quintessential vegetarian eatery’s go-to beet dishes include hummus, burgers and borscht.

“Beets boast so many health benefits. Being rich in folate, manganese and copper, they are good for heart, brain and bone health. They are also a good source of fiber, which will feed the good bacteria in your gut, leading to improved gut health,” says Candace Bell, a Phoenixbased holistic nutritionist and food blogger at The Wheatless Kitchen.

“Beets have a unique earthy flavor that goes perfectly with bright citrus. Roasting them brings out their sweet and savory flavors, and they pair well with arugula, crunchy walnuts and tangy goat cheese in a salad.”

Lisa Keys, of Kennett Square, Penn sylvania, author of the food blog Good Grief Cook, grows beets and uses them in a number of ways. “Beets get their color from natural plant pigments called beta lains, which contain antioxidants and antiinflammatory properties that help control illnesses like diabetes and heart disease,” she says. Her blog offers a recipe for a hearty, roasted beet sandwich, which pairs the root veggie with feta and a smashed avocado, dill, lime and yogurt spread.

Versatility is one of the beet’s star quali ties. The root vegetable can be quickpickled with other garden vegetables, pureed into soup, roasted for a side dish, shredded raw into salads, juiced into a smoothie or even concentrated into a powder—a favorite of registered dieti tian nutritionist Mascha Davis, in Los Angeles. “Beet powder can be added to so many recipes for a fast and easy super food boost,” she says. Her go-to applica tions for beet powder include a beet and

Versatile, nutritious, colorful and flavorful, beets are quite the package deal.

rose latte, a beet-colored “pink yogurt” topped with berries and cacao nibs, and overnight oats swirled with beet powder. If the benefits of the beetroot didn’t already run deep enough, its stems and leaves are not only edible, but also packed with vitamins A, B and K, as well as copper, manganese, iron and calcium. The greens make a great side dish to accompany a beetroot main dish or can be incorporated into a beet soup, salad, sandwich or smoothie for a zero-waste meal turbocharged with nutrients.

Like spinach, chard and other veg etables in the goosefoot family (Chenopo diaceae), beets are rich in oxalates which can contribute to kidney stones. For most healthy people, though, oxalates aren’t harmful, if enjoyed in moderation.

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

BEET, GREENS AND GOAT CHEESE LINGUINE

2 medium, fresh organic or local beets with leaves

¼ cup unsweetened jasmine green tea (or water), hot or cold

1½ Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Juice and zest of ½ lemon (1½ Tbsp juice)

2 large garlic cloves

¾ tsp sea salt

10 oz dry, whole-grain linguine

2 oz soft, artisanal goat cheese or soft cashew cheese, crumbled

¼ cup fresh, small basil leaves

Preheat the oven (or toaster oven) to 350° F. Wash, dry and remove the leaves from the beets; thinly slice the leaves and chill until ready to use. Wrap the beets in recycled aluminum foil and roast in the oven until cooked through and tender, about 1 hour and 15 minutes. When cool enough to handle, scrape off the beet skin using the dull side of a paring knife, then chop the beets.

In a blender, add the chopped beets, tea, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic and salt. Blend until velvety smooth, at least 2 minutes. Set aside. (Tip: Be careful. This purée will stain anything that it may be splattered onto.)

Bring a large saucepan of water to boil over high heat. Add salt to the water, if desired. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions. (Alternatively, try my lidcooking technique to save energy: After stirring the linguine into the boiling water, cover with a lid and turn off or remove from heat. Let cook without heat per the same timing suggested on the pasta package.)

While the pasta is cooking, pour the beet purée into a large sauté pan and bring just to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the beet greens and cook while stir ring until the greens are wilted, about 5 minutes.

Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the cooking liquid. Add the pasta to the beet sauce and gently toss with tongs to combine. Add desired amount of reserved cooking liquid (if any) and gently toss to combine.

Transfer to a large serving bowl and sprinkle with the goat cheese and basil. Sprinkle with additional lemon zest, if desired, and serve.

Recipe by The Chef’s Garden.

Photo courtesy of Michelle Demuth-Bibb

KALE AND BEET SALAD WITH BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

BEET CHIPS WITH SEA SALT AND SMOKED PAPRIKA

1 Tbsp sea salt

¼ tsp smoked paprika

4 medium beets, rinsed and trimmed

2 Tbsp olive oil

Preheat the oven to 375° F. Line two, 18-by13-by-1-inch baking pans with aluminum foil. Combine sea salt and paprika. Cut the beets into very thin slices using a sharp knife or mandoline. Divide beets between each of the prepared pans. Drizzle each with oil then shake in the pan. Sprinkle with salt mixture and toss again. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip and bake for another 15 minutes or until chips are crispy.

Recipe by Reynolds Wrap

FOR THE SALAD:

1 bunch kale

3-4 medium beets

⅓ cup roasted walnuts, chopped ½ cup goat cheese

Pinch of salt 1-2 pinches of microgreens

FOR THE BEETS:

FOR THE DRESSING:

1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

½ tsp fine sea salt

½ tsp freshly crushed black pepper, finely ground

¼ cup balsamic vinegar ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Add beets to a full pot of water and bring to a boil, cooking them until they are fork tender. Remove beets from stove and drain into a colander. Run cold water over them to cool slightly. Remove the skins with a paring knife and/or fingers. Slice into quarters.

FOR THE DRESSING:

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic, mustard, salt and pepper. Add the oil and whisk thoroughly to combine. Continue whisking until the dressing is fully emulsified.

FOR THE SALAD:

Combine kale, beets, walnuts and 2 Tbsp dressing in a bowl and mix. Add a pinch or two of microgreens. Add the goat cheese by breaking it into small pieces. Add a pinch of salt and serve.

Note: Store any extra dressing in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator. Use within 7 days.

Recipe by The Chef’s Garden

BEET HUMMUS

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

2 roasted beets, small 1 15-oz can chickpeas

1 large lemon, zested

½ large lemon,  juiced

1 pinch salt and black pepper

2 large garlic cloves, minced

2 Tbsp tahini

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Peel and dice beets into cubes and roast in the oven at 350 ° F for 20 to 25 minutes. Once the beets are cooled, place them in blender or food processor and blend until only small bits remain. Add remaining ingredients except for olive oil and blend until smooth. Drizzle in olive oil as the hummus is mixing. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, lemon juice or olive oil, as needed. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water. This dish will keep in the fridge for up to a week.

Recipe by The Chef’s Garden

Photo courtesy of Renolds Wrap

Photo courtesy of Michelle Demuth-Bibb

Photo courtesy of Michelle Demuth-Bibb

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

SWEET HARVEST SHOPPE Smoothies, Salads, Wraps 82 Main St., Cold Spring, NY 845.666.7390 SweetHarvestShoppe.com

THE FREIGHT HOUSE CAFÉ

609 Route 6, Mahopac NY 845.628.1872 thefreighthousecafe.com

COFFEE

COFFEE LABS

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

FARMERS’ MARKETS

GOSSETT’S FARM MARKET

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

HUDSON VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

Greig Farm, 223 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook, NY 914.474.2404

Facebook.com/ HudsonValleyFarmersMarket.

HUDSON VALLEY REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET

Sundays, 10am-2pm

15 Mount Ebo Road South Brewster, NY

FARM STORE

BONI-BEL FARM & COUNTRY STORE

Natural market & vocational program

301 Doansburg Rd, Brewster, NY 845.278.2060 greenchimneys.org/countrystore

ZFARMS ORGANIC

Online/By appt; Dover Plains, NY

Call: 845.877.0024

Text: 845.625.4798

ZFarmsOrganic.com

FARMS

FABLE: FROM FARM TO TABLE

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

FableFoods.com

local food info

Mindfull Meals, with weekly deliveries throughout Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess Counties.

HARVEST MOON FARM & ORCHARD

130 Hardscrabble Rd North Salem, NY 914.485.1210

HarvestMoonFarmAndOrchard.com

HILLTOP HANOVER FARM & ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

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

KOMBUCHA

LAUGHING GUT TAPROOM & TEA

289 Main St, Ste 103 Poughkeepsie/ TH-SAT 1-5 845.541.2722; LaughingGut.com

MARKETS

GREENS NATURAL FOODS

Briarcliff Manor

97 North State Road Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510 914.800.9146

Eastchester

780 White Plains Rd. Scarsdale, NY 10583 914.874.5481

Mt. Kisco

666 Lexington Ave. Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 914.864.1274

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

GreensNaturalFoods.com

GREEN ORGANIC MARKET

275 S. Central Park Ave. Hartsdale, NY 914.437.5802

FB: GreenOrganicMarket

WHOLE FOODS MARKET

575 Boston Post Rd, Port Chester, NY 914.708.1985

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MEAL DELIVERY

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Plant-Based, Gluten-Free Calorie and Macro Counted

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RESTAURANT

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Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

890 South Lake Blvd. Mahopac, NY 845.621.2655 BOKmahopac.com

SUSTAINABLE SANCTUARIES

SUPPORTING HUMAN AND PLANETARY HEALTH AT HOME

by Sandra Yeyati

Nothing underscored the im portance of a comfortable and versatile sanctuary quite like the pandemic. Stuck at home isolating, many families reconfigured their living arrange ments to accommodate expanding uses for work, schooling, cooking, entertainment and more. Today, that spirit of renewal lingers, prompting steady and robust activ ity in the construction and interior design industries.

A house is literally our shelter from the storm, made more critical as we increas ingly encounter extreme and unprecedent ed weather events due to climate change. When we upgrade, remodel, build or buy new cocoons for our families, the time is ripe to incorporate elements that preserve and promote the health of humans and the planet.

Inspiring Goals

Lindsay Baker, CEO of the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), is part of a

growing community of industry professionals trying to figure out how to design, build and operate structures in more environmentally sustainable, socially impactful and healthy ways. “We ask what would it look like if a building were to give back more to the world than it took,” she explains. “We’re a resource-consumptive industry with a large carbon footprint. Forty percent of global carbon emissions are caused by the energy re quired to construct and operate buildings. We also use lots of materials that pose negative impacts on people’s health—products known to contain carcinogens or cause respirarespira tory problems—and people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, so everything we’ re exposed to indoors has a huge impact on our health.”

The ILFI Living Building Challenge sets bold aspirational goals, and build ings around the world have proven that it is possible to hit these benchmarks. “The energy imperative is that the building produces more energy than it consumes, and that happens by generating renewable energy like solar power onsite and using very little energy,” Baker asserts. “For wa ter, we ask that everyone return the water that goes through the building cleaner than it entered, which means people need to treat water onsite and use a lot less of it. You can do that with composting toilets, as well as grey water systems and rainwater recapture strategies.”

Photo courtesy of International Living Future Institute

Photo courtesy of Pulte Homes at Babcock Ranch

Baker is proud of ILFI’s ambitious goals. “If you decide to do a renovation to save 5 or 10 percent of your water or energy consumption, it will feel good to get there, but what we’ve found is that when you set a really exciting target for yourself, the whole process is more fun and you get further with similar amounts of effort and money, because you’re thinking about systems differently, questioning assumptions about what a home might be capable of doing and employing a different level of creativity. At the end of the day, it can lead to a much more beautiful, more efficient building.”

modifications are low-flow shower heads, toilets and faucets, which cost the same as traditional-flow fixtures, as well as a visit from the plumber to fix any leaks. Minimizing or eliminating turf grass and planting drought-tolerant, native vegeta tion outside will also significantly cut water use, Languell suggests.

“Grey water and rainwater collection systems are gaining momentum, and these systems for home use have come leaps and bounds from where they were 10 years ago,” she says. “They can take water from your laundry or shower, treat it, and use it to flush toilets, for example—a huge benefit for the West Coast and a huge water sav ings, because you’re using your water twice before you dispose of it.”

Eco-Responsible Materials

Energy Conservation

Energy conservation is job number one for Jennifer Languell, founder and president of Trifecta Construction Solutions, in Babcock Ranch, Florida. “An inexpensive but impact ful upgrade is adding insulation. If you’re in an existing house, add insulation on top of what you already have. If you’re new construction, beef it up. You also want to address unwanted points of air infiltration using gaskets, weather stripping and caulking around exterior doors and windows. Over time, these items can shrink or get damaged, and may need to be replaced to seal the house and minimize air drafts,” she says. “You want to im prove efficiency first, which costs much less than transitioning to renewable energy. And when you do transition, you only have to buy smaller quantities of photovoltaic panels to offset your power generation.”

According to Languell, windows are climate-specific and can be modified by adding or subtracting panes, coatings and treatments. “In Montana, I want the heat from the sun coming into my house, but in Florida, I don’t,” she says. “Natural light is great, but there’s a balance between your glass-to-wall ratio. In Florida, you would never have a skylight, but up north you’d consider it. And at this point, everyone should be tran sitioning to LED lighting, which will save money and energy.”

Water Preservation

As waterways dry up and areas around the world become more drought-prone, water conservation becomes an increas ingly important imperative. The simplest

With regard to building materials and products, the annual ILFI Red List calls out chemicals with negative human health impacts that shouldn’t be used in buildings, such as bisphenol A, chlorofluorocarbons, formaldehyde, flame retardants, phthalates, toxic heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOC). Its Declare label is like a nutrition sticker that details what is in a building product, whether it is free of Red List chemicals and what its carbon footprint is.

“Consumers should demand transpar ency; they should know what is in the products put in their homes,” Baker says. “One of the rules of thumb I like to apply is to ask, ‘How far is this material removed

from nature?’ Wood is one of the better materials from an ecological and health standpoint. Fake wood flooring that is meant to look like wood but in fact isn’t— not so much. A lot of what we’re support ing is about getting back to the basics, removing chemicals and using brick, wood and clay.”

According to Languell, the more durable and local a material is, the better for the environment. “I’d never say no to a metal or concrete roof that lasts 50 years versus shingles with a 15-year cycle. Although bamboo is rapidly renewable, most of it comes from China, so the greenhouse gases associated with the transportation makes it less environmentally friendly. Local materials are ideal. The closer the better. Get granite from Georgia, instead of Italy.”

When it comes to human health, home décor and cleaning products are equally as important as the construction materials, Languell advises. “Many times we’ll build a healthy and efficient home and then people put all sorts of fabrics and chemi cals in there that are off-gassing because they’re not thinking about the health of the indoor environment.”

Sustainable and Healthy Furnishings

“There’s good, better and best quality furni ture,” says Robin Wilson, a New York City eco-designer and founder of Robin Wilson Home. “Good might use inexpensive

wood or heavy-duty cardboards that look great, but if you sit on the arm of the sofa, it caves in. Better might have a less expensive wood, but it’s solid frame construction. The best is a very good wood and solid frame construction made for heirloom quality. There are costs associated with each level, and I recommend spending the most budget you have on a quality product, because that sofa, if it’s made well and it’s styled in a classic design, can be recovered over and over again; therefore, you’re being eco-friendly to the world because it’s not going into a landfill.”

Her favorite materials for furnishings are sustainably forested or reclaimed wood, long-lasting metals like steel and aluminum, fast-growing bamboo and recycled or re claimed plastics. She’s also a proponent of vintage pieces. “With all furniture, if it can be salvaged, salvage it. Healthwise, make sure the materials are hyper-washed to protect you from allergens. Old glazes or paints might have lead in them, so take vintage furniture to a professional that uses the right safety equipment or go to YouTube University and make sure that you protect yourself with gear to rework the piece in a garage or outdoor space. Always choose nontoxic paints and stains with low to no VOCs.”

Biophilic Design

Baker is particularly excited about interior design innovations that reconnect us to nature, known as biophilic design. “Natural light is important, but also, lighting manufacturers are figuring out how to pro duce lighting that feels like you’re sitting outside in a forest while a cloud passes by or under a tree with dappled light. Mohawk and Interface offer low-carbon, healthy carpets that mimic natural forms like a rocky beach,” she says. “Fractals are often mentioned in biophilic design because they’re fascinating geometric compositions in nature like fly wings and bark that have an inherent intelligence to them, and we’ve come to understand that these natural elements are not just interesting, they also have measurable positive impact on our psyche and mental health.”

Durability

“I rate durability over everything else. If you build it once and it doesn’t get destroyed by a natural disas ter, you’re going to generate less waste and use fewer

Susan Vineyard/AdobeStock.com

Katecat/AdobeStock.com

resources,” Languell says. “Durability might mean fireproofing in California, windproofing in Florida and floodproofing in Louisi ana. It also means futureproofing your home, especially if you’re building new. Anticipate technologies that are coming. Even if you can’t afford photovoltaic panels now, for a couple of bucks, you can run electric conduit from your panel up to your roof so if ever you decide to buy them, it’s not a major overhaul of your house. Dual-pipe your house and have the pipes ready to tie in rainwater or grey water, even if it’s not financially viable right now. Wire your house for a 220-volt plug in your garage so everyone that has an electric vehicle can charge it overnight.”

Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

THIRD-PARTY CERTIFIERS AND WEBSITES

n LEADERSHIP IN ENERGY AND ENVIRON MENTAL DESIGN (LEED) (usgbc.org) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world.

n SUSTAINABLE FURNISHINGS COUNCIL (SustainableFurnishings.org) champions wood from sustainable forests and elimination of toxins in furniture; links to eco-responsible vendors.

n ENERGY STAR (EnergyStar.gov) certifies products and offers guidance for efficient home solutions by U.S. regions and climates.

n THE ASTHMA AND ALLERGY FOUNDATION OF AMERICA (AsthmaAndAllergyFriendly.com) certifies asthma- and allergy-friendly options for insulation, air filters, flooring and paint.

n HOMEFREE (HomeFree.HealthyBuilding.net) showcases less toxic options for flooring, paint, drywall, countertops, cabinetry, doors, insulation, sealants and more.

n WATERSENSE (epa.gov/watersense) offers guid ance by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for water conservation and water-saving products.

n UNDERWRITERS LABORATORY (ul.com) certi fies safe and environmentally sound solutions in renewable energy, building materials, consumer electronics and home goods.

n INTERNATIONAL LIVING FUTURE INSTITUTE (Living-Future.org) accredits industry pros and certifies buildings that positively impact human and natural health.

Reducing Radiation Risks

WAYS TO LESSEN ELECTROMAGNETIC EXPOSURE

by Carrie Jackson

We are tied to our devices, con tinually connected via phones, tablets and computers, but this convenience comes at a cost. Many people are surprised to learn that our devices are constantly emitting electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and radiofrequency radiation (RF).

According to the American Academy of Environmental Medicine, there is strong evidence of a correlation between these exposures and neurological, cardiac and pulmonary disease, as well as reproductive disorders, immune dysfunction, cancer and other health conditions.

Constant Exposure

Our exposure to EMFs has dramatically in creased over the past few years, especially in homes containing cordless phones, wireless routers and smart meters. Every electrical device emits an EMF, whether or not it’s turned on. This constant radiation can cause damage to cells, and even comes from ap pliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines and baby monitors. The closer a device is to a person, the more potent the charge. “EMFs cause VGCC’s [voltage-gated calcium channels] to swing open and allow excess calcium into the cell. This causes elevated oxidative stress, inflammation and ultimately, if not coun teracted, disease,” says Mieke Jacobs, an EMF consultant and founder of Healthy House Chicago

Jacobs, who does private house in spections in the Midwest, says that the rise of smart appliances and lighting in recent years has increased certain types of EMFs. “Dirty electricity consists of highfrequency voltage transients riding along the 60-Hertz electricity provided by the utility company. Many people are surprised to learn how prevalent it is in seemingly safer sources such as solar panels, compact fluorescent lights, dimmer switches and energy-efficient appliances,” she says.

Concerning Effects

As a certified electromagnetic radiation specialist and founder of EMF Healthy, in Sedona, Arizona, Liz Menkes focuses on the radio frequency EMFs found in wireless devices and systems, alternating

current (AC) electric and magnetic sources in wiring and appli ances, and dirty electricity, all commonly found in homes. “EMFs have been linked to many symptoms and health conditions, and there is evidence of cancer risk from all four types,” she says. “AC magnetic fields were classified as a possible human carcinogen in 2001 due to evidence of increased risk for childhood leukemia. Radio frequency was classified as a possible human carcinogen in 2011 due to evidence of increased risk for brain tumors. Plus, there are links to many other health conditions such as Alzheim er’s and Parkinson’s.”

Symptoms from EMF exposure can manifest in many ways. “Early warning signs include difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, headaches, irritability and anxiety. It is estimated about 30 percent of the population is moderately sensitive to EMFs, but have not connected the dots, since these are common symptoms that can be caused by many things. Other common symptoms can include tinnitus, skin rashes, dizziness, sharp stabbing pains, leg cramps, high blood pressure, nausea and hyperactivity, especially in chil dren,” says Menkes. Less common symptoms include heart arrhyth mias, unexplained nightmares and nosebleeds, as well as ADHD and food allergies in kids, adds Jacobs.

Reduce Exposure at Home

Tangible steps can be taken to lessen the risk. “The number one mistake people make is sleeping with their cell phones near the head of the bed. Leave it turned off in another room and get a battery-operated alarm clock,” says Menkes. “Turn off Wi-Fi at night, since EMF radiation affects melatonin production. If pos sible, hardwire your laptops, tablets, cell phones and other devices to eliminate Wi-Fi completely in the house. If you must use a cell phone, keep it in airplane mode as much as possible and don’t store it in a pocket or otherwise close to the body.”

More in-depth interventions include electrical rewiring, as well as radio-frequency shielding that blocks EMFs with copper or another absorbent material. “Replacing dimmer switches helps, but not all electricians are aware of EMFs and have different priorities when upgrading a home,” says Jacobs.

The federal government has no restrictions on overall EMF exposure. “The wireless industry and the government agencies that are supposed to regulate this industry want you to believe that the science is settled and wireless exposures are safe. Unfor tunately, this message is not reality. EMF damage can manifest in myriad ways that include many conditions and that are occurring in ever-increasing amounts,” says Lloyd Burrell, author of EMF Practical Guide and France-based founder of ElectricalSense.com.

The Building Biology Institute offers classes and resources to help create environments free of EMF hazards. “Any measure to reduce your exposure is worth taking, and will contribute to a healthier and more peaceful home environment,” says Menkes.

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at Carrie JacksonWrites.com.

wise words

Nadine Clopton on Advancing Regenerative Organic Agriculture to Health Care

by Kirby Baldwin

During the last century, the rise of chemical-based agriculture has severely changed the way food is produced, and we have failed to recognize its unintended consequences. Research has revealed that if we continue on this path, our soil will give out and we will be unable to feed our children and grandchildren within the next 60 years. Thankfully, there is still time and positive transformation is possible through regenerative organic agri culture, which has its roots in Indigenous, traditional, ecological knowledge.

For more than 70 years, the Rodale Institute has been on the leading edge of the movement to promote a better, natural and more responsible way of modern farming by conducting research into the cultivation of healthy, living soils. Today, Nadine Clopton is advancing its related efforts through regenerative health care.

Clopton has been an NGO youth repre sentative to the United Nations for more than six years, was the first young person to serve as a director on the board, and is now serving as an elected vice president of

the Global NGO Executive Committee. In her role as program manager with Rodale Institute, Clopton combines her loves of health, advocacy and the ecosystem. Learn ing about food as medicine was transforma tive in her own health journey with chronic illnesses, and she hopes that others are also able to experience the transformative sense of well-being and connection that comes through such a lifestyle practice.

What does the regenerative health care movement mean for both human health and agriculture?

Regenerative health care carries potent “medicine” for a lot of the things that are ailing us in this country: the epidemic of chronic illnesses, the climate crisis, global food insecurity and ecological health. We believe that healing our soil is a prereq uisite for healing ourselves. Regenerative health care draws the link between agricul ture and health care because we need those two systems to talk with one another, and the answers are right beneath our feet.

How do we better connect our farming, food and healthcare systems?

The best thing we can do is take those three things out of a silo and look at them as part of a complex, interconnected web. In Rodale Institute’s “farm to hospital” model with St. Luke’s Hospital, we have a working farm at the hospital and much of the pro duce grown there ends up on the patient’s plates, in the cafeteria or in a CSA [com munity-supported agriculture] share that the hospital employees can take home. At Rodale Institute, we’re hoping to build that bridge between agriculture and health care, and invite doctors and farmers to be part of the cycle of health care: thinking about the health of our soil and the health and the nutrient density of what’s on our plates.

The heart and soul of what I’m working on right now centers around connecting

What is next in your plans for the future of regenerative health care?

health care and agriculture with Rodale In stitute’s first-ever Regenerative Healthcare Conference. We’re inviting doctors, nurses, RDs [registered dietician], nutritionists and others with interests in health and well-being to the farm for four days to get their hands in the soil and learn about how soil health is directly correlated to human health and how food is medicine.

We’re working closely with Dr. Scott Stoll’s team at The Plantrician Project and bringing together some incredible luminar ies like Dr. Uma Naidoo, Dr. Maya Shetreat, Dr. Rupa Marya, Dr. Michelle Perro, Dr. Mark Hyman, Dr. T. Colin Campbell and others. To our knowledge, this is the firstever medical conference to be taking place on a living, breathing, working farm. We’re passionate about the idea of getting doctors out of their practices and letting them get their hands in the soil. There’s no better way to learn about the real fundamen tal difference between conventional and regenerative organic agriculture than by picking up a scoop of soil in our conven tional model and picking up a scoop of soil in our regenerative organic model.

Healing our planet begins with healing ourselves and how we relate to the planet and to one another, so through these tangible, in-person experiences, we can get even closer to that ultimate goal of a healed system.

Get to know a farmer! Go get your hands in the soil, talk to your local farmers and start to rebuild that web of connection and relationship. Look around you and see how the Earth responds when we’re operating in a way that’s regenerative and allows natural systems to thrive. And for practitioners, get curious! Start breaking out of the siloed worldview of health and medicine and learn about the potent medicines that are all around us in our food and our soil.

Kirby Baldwin writes for KnoWEwell, the Regenerative Whole Health Hub and col laborative partner of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp.

What are some tips for consumers and practitioners to help this movement?

Green Schoolyards

CONCRETE JUNGLES BECOME NATURAL PLAYGROUNDS

by Sheila Julson

Skipping rope, playing hopscotch or shooting hoops have traditionally been enjoyed on asphalt-paved schoolyards enclosed by chain-link fencing. But over the last few decades, city leaders, school districts and other stakeholders have been trans forming such areas into verdant play-learn spaces, designed for and by students and the community, which also offer green space for surrounding neighborhoods to enjoy during non-school hours.

While there is no official definition of a green schoolyard, these projects often share such elements as shade trees and native plantings. Asphalt urban heat islands are being replaced with permeable pavers, rain gardens and vegetative ditches called bioswales to help retain rainwater.

Incorporating climate-appropriate materials and arboriculture that provides ornamental

shading using trees and shrubs is impor tant, says Alejandra Chiesa, California state director of Green Schoolyards America, a nine-year-old nonprofit. Even poured rubber surfacing or artificial turf can be come too hot and contribute to unhealthy environments for children if not shaded, she says. Planting shade trees and selecting cooler materials such as wood, mulch or engineered wood fiber is critical, especially in hotter climates.

Sukjai

Photo/AdobeStock.com

“Playground equipment made from recycled materials can still get very hot and should be kept under the shade of trees,” she cau tions. Green schoolyards can incorporate logs, stumps and play equipment made from real wood which provide great play value and stay cooler.

Brenda Kessler, the green schoolyards program coordinator for the Children & Nature Network (C&NN), works with teams made up of city and school district leaders, along with local partners, to implement schoolyard makeovers. The organization is in the process of publishing district design guidelines that detail different features. “We’re not prescriptive, but it can include elements like outdoor classrooms, stormwater retention infrastructure, pollina tor gardens, edible gardens, shade structures and boulders,” Kessler says.

The Trust for Public Land, which works to create parks and preserve public lands, began transforming schoolyards 25 years ago in response to the shortage of space available for new parks. “Every schoolyard we do across the country looks different. We’re responding to the local requirements,” says Danielle Denk, the Trust’s Community Schoolyards initiative director. The organiza tion has partnered with New York City’s Department of Educa tion for its Schoolyard to Playground Initiative. The program has remade more than 260 schoolyards in all five boroughs, opening up the grounds to extended after-school and weekend hours. Parks that may include such new features as shaded seating and exercise tracks are now within a 10-minute walk for 4 million New Yorkers.

In urban areas, large-caliper trees provide shade and bring down the overall temperature of the school, creating a more comfortable indoor learning environment. Trees also improve air quality and noise pollution in schools located in industrial neighborhoods. Dearborn, Michigan, is one such industrial city that seeks to reduce air and noise pollution through green schoolyards.

Priya Cook, director of the C&NN green schoolyards program, says its projects support local teams in systems change and initia tive. Removing asphalt and replacing it with permeable pavers, bioswales and rain gardens also mitigates flooding. In Milwaukee, C&NN supported scaling work of the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District to install rainwater retention features on school playgrounds.

Rural communities, which may already have good soil and tree canopies, are also candidates for green schoolyards. “We found in rural communities that the schools serve an important civic role. Some of these areas do not have a physical park or gathering place for social events. Green schoolyards provide [a] venue for the social infrastructure that is crucial in rural America,” Denk says.

Outdoor Learning Spaces

Green schoolyards can offer hands-on learning spaces where children help with planting, mulching and soil health. Wildlife habitats, native gardens and natural ecosystems offer opportunities to learn about migrating birds and insects. Raised bed vegetable gardens provide nutrition and gardening education.

Cook says academic benefits go beyond learning about nature: “One feature that comes up a lot is creating space for outdoor learning in general. Many subjects can be taught outside, whether or not they’re physically focused on that natural environment.”

Green schoolyards are going international. C&NN is spearhead ing a multi-organizational effort to create a Global Lesson on Greening School Grounds and Outdoor Learning project; the plan will be drafted at a meeting this November in Salzburg, Austria. “We’re all coming together to advance green schoolyards world-We’re ’re world wide,” Kessler says.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.

~Brené Brown

Green schoolyards can offer hands-on learning spaces where children help with planting, mulching and soil health.

natural pet

A Happy Halloween for Pets

NINE WAYS TO KEEP A DOG OR CAT SAFE

by Karen Shaw Becker

Halloween is celebrated on Octo ber 31, and as always on this fun holiday for humans, it’s impor tant to take precautions to ensure furry family members wake up healthy, happy and safe on November 1. Here are some potential hazards to avoid.

CHOCOLATE: All chocolate is toxic to both cats and dogs, and the darker it is,

the more toxic. It contains a caffeine-like stimulant that when ingested by a pet, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, racing pulse and seizures. Make sure all family members and guests, including chil dren, understand the importance of keep ing chocolate away from the dog or cat.

SUGAR-FREE GOODIES CONTAINING XYLITOL: This is a popular sugar sub stitute added to an increasing number of consumer products, including sugar-free candy, gum, mints and baked goods. A small amount of xylitol can cause a rapid and dangerous blood sugar drop in dogs, as well as acute liver failure. Xylitol’s effect on cats is unknown, but keep it far away from the kitties, as well.

RAISINS AND TRAIL MIX: Instead of candy, some well-meaning people hand out tiny boxes of raisins or small bags of trail mix containing raisins and/ or chocolate candy such as M&Ms. Unfortunately, raisins are toxic to dogs and cats, and can cause kidney failure even in very small amounts.

Choco

late-covered raisins pose a double-barrelled risk.

CANDY WRAPPERS: Halloween candy isn’t the only health threat for dogs and cats. Empty candy wrappers smell like what was in them, enticing a pet. The ingestion of foil and cellophane wrap pers can cause a life-threatening bowel obstruction. It’s very important to stress to children, in particular, the need to keep all candy wrappers out of the reach of pets.

CANDLES AND GLOW STICKS: Candles, including the small ones inside Jack-o’-lanterns, are fire hazards. Make sure they are well beyond a pet’s reach, so that a kitty doesn’t wander across a table or shelf decorated with lit candles or a dog doesn’t get too frisky with a carved pump kin with a candle inside. Glow sticks and jewelry have become very popular, and pets (especially cats) have been known to chew on them. The substance that creates the glow is phenol, which can leak out and burn a pet’s fur and tongue. Choking on small pieces is another hazard.

SCARY HUMAN COSTUMES: Some pets can become very fearful or aggressive at the sight of certain Halloween costumes, including those that may resemble a dog or

cat. In such instances, take precautions to keep both a pet and trick-or-treaters safe.

ELABORATE PET COSTUMES: Even if a pet isn’t costume-averse (many dogs and most cats are), make sure whatever is put on her is lightweight to avoid overheating, doesn’t confine or restrain their movement in any way and is free of any adornments they might be tempted to chew off and swallow. If they are frightened or annoyed by the puppy princess gown or the Grumpy Cat mask, be a pal and don’t force the issue. Let them enjoy the holiday, too.

TRICK-OR-TREATERS AND OTHER VISITORS: If lots of costumed kids or adults show up at the house on Halloween, be aware that a constantly ringing doorbell, knocks and strangers at the door and a general mood of excite ment can create an overstimulating environment for a pet. Some pets become anxious, fearful and aggres sive when their normally quiet, predictable evening is anything but. If a pet tends to find commo tion at the front door or visitors stressful, it’s best to secure them in a quiet, safe spot before the action starts.

OPEN DOORS: Animal shelters and rescue organizations typically experience an increase in lost pets in the days following Halloween. Opening and closing the front door for trick-or-treaters, coupled with the event’s high level of excitement, can create an opportunity for a frightened or adven turous pet to run off. Make sure a pet’s ID tag and/or microchip database informa tion, if applicable, are up to date and take precautions to prevent them from slipping out the door and into the night.

Common sense and a little preparation will ensure a four-legged family member is none the worse for wear the next morning.

Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and improve well-being of their animals.

Tierney/AdobeStock.com

CALENDAR

Find and post last minute events at WakeUpNaturally.com

inspiration Inviting in the Wild

by Marlaina Donato

Amidst the whirlwind of our daily busyness, Mother Nature goes about her own affairs, conjuring everyday miracles from the humble trinity of tangled roots, dark soil and sunlight. On our way to our next task, we might catch snippets of afternoon gold blur past in a window, but we may long for more time to accept October’s invitation of long shadows.

Having an indoor haven touched with nature’s balm takes the edge off the work-athome days, the can’t-catch-a-breath days and the won’t-stop-raining days. Bringing a bit of the outside in helps us to remember the big picture. The 12th-century mystic and healer Hildegard of Bingen called the energy of the Earth veriditas, or greenness, and it is easy to tap into this life force by aligning our senses with the rhythms of nature.

Beauty is an often forgotten necessity, but can gently lead us back on track when we place a vase of fresh flowers, pine branches or wild rose hips on a windowsill. Designating one wall in the house for a photographic tapestry of spring cherry trees, mountain snow, a turquoise beach or majestic oaks can lower blood pressure just as effectively as actually being there. Keeping a “scent jar” on the desk filled with dried garden basil, bee balm or sweet grass clippings from the lawn can give us a breath of summer all year long. Placing a piece of found driftwood, preserved birch or a bowl of handmade potpourri on a coffee table can make afternoon breaks more mindful. A simple table fountain can bless any space with the harmony of its waters. Creating a “changing season” shelf and celebrating the hour invites the whole family to contribute to inspired whimsy.

Even if we simply place found branches in a basket with amber holiday lights in a cozy corner, living more closely with nature can help us maintain core serenity. The dance of each season is brief, but tuning into their wealth can make our own dance a bit more magical.

Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Intuitive & Healing Arts

ASTROLOGY

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

ENERGY MEDICINE

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

One Light Healing Touch Penny and Ron Lavin, MA Sessions and Schools OLHT1.com/845.878.5165

White Lotus Grace Offers Workshop at the World Peace Sanctuary

Gigi Oppenheimer, of White Lotus Grace, in Millbrook, will be facilitating a Harmonizing with the Rhythm of Nature’s Cycles workshop on October 16, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the World Peace Sanctuary, located at 26 Benton Road, in Wassaic.

“Intuitive practices will support what you need personally to be at ease and in sync with the changing season,” says Op penheimer. “In keeping with the spirit of autumn, the intro spective journey that I will guide will gently explore letting go and moving inward to rest and regenerate, which is integral to the natural cycle and flow of creativity.”

The studio is also resuming regular weekly classes in October, both in person and virtually, including Healing Dance, Meditation, Moving by Faith and Bhakti Healing Arts. “Bhakti is a Sanskrit word for devotion as well as an ancient spiritual tradition deeply rooted in the wisdom of Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam and other Vedic literature,” explains Oppenheimer, also known as Giri Govardhana Dasi through initiation in that lineage. She draws from more than 35 years of experience in bhakti, dance and intuitive healing arts to highlight the transformative power of these practices and their accessibility in life today.

Cost: Suggested donation for workshop is $25. Location: World Peace Sanctuary, 26 Benton Rd., Wassaic, NY. For more information about classes, private readings, healing sessions or spiritual courses, contact Oppenheimer at 845.677.3517 or whitelotusgrace@gmail.com, or visit WhiteLotusGrace.com. See page 38.

INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALING

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

HEALING SANCTUARY

Moss and Moonlight Workshops, Yoga, Reiki, Women Circles, In-Person & Virtual Hopewell Junction, NY MossAndMoonlight.com

INTUITIVE HEALING

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

NEW AGE STORES

Persephone’s Pearl 1014 B Main St., Peekskill 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

PSYCHIC MEDIUM

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

Gigi Oppenheimer

The Joy of Movement

DANCING BOOSTS OUR HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

by Marlaina Donato

Whether it’s salsa, hip-hop, belly dance or ballet, finding our groove has proven to ease depression, support the cardiovas cular system and improve overall joint function. By all accounts, dancing gives us a step toward better health, but equally as noteworthy is its potential to bring more fun into our lives. Contrary to popular opinion, dancing is not just for kids, and special ability is not necessary. “You are never too old, and there is no such thing as two left feet, but we can also argue: When you have great instruc tors teaching you, you can learn anything as a beginner,” says Monique Maldonado, marketing director of the Latin Rhythms Acad emy of Dance and Performance, in Chicago.

Brainy Benefits

Stepping into a dance studio can help us enrich our lives while sharpening cogni tive function. After participating in an eight-month dance program during which they memorized intricate steps of the merengue, salsa and samba, Span ish-speaking, middle-aged and older adults had significant improvement in working memory scores, reported University of Illinois Chicago researchers in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience. “Just like working out and puzzles, dancing works out brain paths and keeps them active and healthy,” says Maldonado.

Tango lovers will be pleased to know that the passionate dance style has

been shown in a 2017 study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine to low er anxiety and stress levels more effectively than mindfulness meditation.

Individual Moves

Mike Hallworth teaches cruise ship passengers, mostly in their 60s and 70s, how to navigate the dance floor.

“We teach all the main dance genres, including ballroom and Latin Ameri can, salsa and mambo, along with modern jive,” says the South port, England-based, lifelong dancer who teaches with his wife, Jan. “For those not as agile as they would like to be, I would suggest starting with ballroom, social foxtrot and waltz, then progress to Latin American, chacha and rumba.”

At age 75, he partially attributes his basal metabolic rate of 60—common in men 15 years his junior—to his love of danc ing, which “can burn up to 385 calories per hour with salsa or 400 calories per hour with swing,” he notes.

Joan Price, a contemporary line dance instructor in Sebastopol, California, also attests to the longevitypromoting perks of moving joyfully. “At 78, line danc ing keeps me physically fit, mentally alert and happy to be alive. The older we get, the more we

need social activity, physical movement and mental stimulation. You get all three at once with line dancing.”

The form has long outgrown its coun try-western music roots and now offers something for everyone, including Latin, swing, contemporary pop and Broadway. “Since you dance on your own in a row, line dancing is ideal for singles and for partners of non-dancers. It’s also won derful for people who want a social activ ity that doesn’t involve dating or partner ing,” says Price. She says that there are thousands of different line dances, rang ing from super-simple to extraordinarily complex. “As a beginner, be sure and choose a class that is beginning level,” she says. “Beginning level teaches basic steps, patterns and terminology—and the joy of dance!”

For those looking for a little more heat, Latin dance can accommodate any fitness level. “If you are looking for a fun, new

“Being a part of any dance community can truly be life-changing.”

Maldonado

hobby, any style is a fit, but if you are more interested in advancing your salsa skill level, trying mambo and cha-cha can be a nice challenge,” says Maldonado. “Sensual bachata is for those who want a little more spice and advanced body movement.”

Hallworth often sees people approach ing dance with uncertainty and apprehen sion, and he encourages an open mind: “Dancing isn’t for everyone, but if you give it a chance, you will be well rewarded. Most people learning to dance are a friendly bunch and will help newcomers.”

For Maldonado, it is also about shared experience, which she feels is one of the most beautiful aspects of Latin dance: “It’s a great, diverse group of people who can change your outlook on life. Being a part of any dance community can truly be life-changing.”

Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

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 October 12 (for the November issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Email marilee@wakeupnaturally.com for guidelines on how to submit listings.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2

Bedford 2030 Clean Ride and Drive Expo –Noon-3pm. Check out the latest electric vehicle (EV) models and a electric school bus and learn from local EV owners. Live music and food. Bed ford Hills Depot, 46 Depot Plaza, Bedford Hills. Info: 914.620.2411; Bedford2030.org.

Demystifying Medicare Presentation – 1:154:15pm. In person workshop. Online audio chapters available too. Free. Hendrick Hudson Free Library, 185 Kings Ferry Road, Montrose. Additional locations throughout September and October. Preregistration: 914.739.5654.

Annual Support-A-Walk – Bring help and hope to people fighting breast and ovarian cancer. Presented by Support Connection. Walk with others in FDR Park or walk anywhere. Info: SupportConnection. org; 914.962.6402.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1

Walktoberfest Farmers and Makers Market – 10/1 & 10/2. More than 120 vendors located throughout the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and the Walkway’s Ulster Welcome Center Plaza: farmfresh products, food from local restaurants; beer, cider, art installations, live music, and more. Free admission. Info: Walkway.org/Walktoberfest.

Cider Week New York – 9/29-10/9. Events will include cider tastings, orchard tours, chef and cider pairings, cider markets and more. Info: CiderWeekNewYork.com.

Farm Crawl – 10am-2pm. Features eight stops: Dykeman’s Farm, Harlem Valley Homestead, Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue, Kelly’s Creamery, Four Brothers, Taconic Distillery, Harney Tea & Natural Landscapes. $15. Registration required. Info: 845.416.8583; HarlemValleyChamber.com.

Reiki I & II Certification – Two days. 12:30-5:30pm. Taught by Reiki master healer and teacher, Shima Chayvet. Receive ongoing mentoring and Reiki circle practice. $390. All inclusive. Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325; UniversalHealingArts.com.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5

Writing Workshop: Doorway to Prayer – 1-4pm. With Karen Rippstein. Participants will awaken their muse to create delights of language by play ing with words, rhythm, and ideas shared in a non-judgmental environment. $30. The Center at Mariandale, 299 North Highland Ave, Ossining. Info: 914.941.4455; Mariandale.org.

Wicca 101 – 5:30-6:30pm. Participants will be introduced to the world of Wicca and see if it resonates with their spiritual make-up. $15. Perse phone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6

How to Find Peace in Chaotic Times: A Series – 5-6pm. 10/6, 10/20, 11/3 & 11/ 17. Explore and experience how the Four Foundations of Mind fulness can calm the mind. Free will offering. In Person at Mariandale or via Zoom. Mariandale, 299 North Highland Ave, Ossining. Info: 914.941.4455; Mariandale.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7

Drop into Your Best Self: Resting in Your Truth – 10am-12pm. Joy Matalon and Dr. Erica Warren offer facilitated activities, discussions, videos and meditations that support personal growth, feel heard, build empathy and discover community. 43 Lakefront Rd., Putnam Valley. Info: 914.519.8138; DropIntoYourBestSelf.com.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Yoga on the Farm at Fishkill Farms – 9-10am. Final Yoga On the Farm for the season. Practice with RedTail outdoors at the beautiful Fishkill Farms. All levels. $20/Drop-in. RedTail Power Yoga, 810 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. Info: RedTailPowerYoga.com; 845.605.2257.

Ancestral Healing & Re-Patterning: Tracing the Origins of Your Illness – 1-3pm. Join an cestral conduit and spiritwalker, Laura Aversano

as she tracks all conditions. $60. Universal Heal ing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325; UniversalHealingArts.com.

Yoga Nidra: Guided Relaxation for Healing –1:30-4:30 p.m. With Nya Patrinos. Learn yoga ni dra’s therapeutic properties, do an 8-stage practice, and discuss its effects on the body. $45 members/$65 nonmembers. Via Zoom. Info: Gina Callender: 914.374.9749. ytayoga.com

Themed Group Acupuncture: Back To School Stress Relief – 3-4pm. With Sharon Zeiss. Unique opportunity to experience the synergy of support and healing in a community set ting. Pellegrino Healing Center Salt Cave, 4307 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park. Info: 845.233.5672. Register: pellegrinohealingcenter.com.

Full Moon Women’s Circle: Manifesting Your Inner Magic – 4:30-6:30pm. With Michelle Egg ink. Community to build the feminine energy with breathwork, meditation, journaling, and group sharing. Pellegrino Healing Center Salt Cave, 4307 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park. Info: 845.233.5672. Register: pellegrinohealingcenter.com.

Afro-Caribbean Spirituality (Spanish) – 5:306:30pm. Participants deepen their understanding and knowledge of Afro-Caribbean traditions. $15. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com 914.737.3460.

Monthly Séance (Spanish) – 7-9pm. Join others at Persephone’s Pearl to experience and communicate with the other side. $15. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9

Mind Body Soul Expo – 11am-5pm. Celebrate the full blood moon. Presented by Wellness Center at Roosevelt II. Free admission. The Gideon Putnam at Saratoga Spa State Park, 24 Gideon Putnam Rd., Saratoga Springs. Info: MindBodyExpo.com.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 10

Brotherhood Circle – 5:30-7pm. Commune with other men to discover ways to effectively navigate a Goddess centered practice. Free. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

Conversation among Men – 6pm. Topic of dis cussion: The importance of relationships–how to cultivate and develop healthy ones, starting with the self. The World Peace Sanctuary, Wassaic. Info: Contact, Ann Marie: info@worldpeace.org.

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

natural awakenings

Yoga and Reiki Infusion Class at Luna Power Yoga

ONLINE STUDIOS

Encourage Yoga

OnDemand/Livestream/ Deep Dive 413.679.7766 EncourageYoga.com

YogaShine

For the Over-50 Crowd Mat, Chair, Therapy – ZOOM Groups and Individuals 914.769.8745; yogashine.com

QIGONG

Dutchess County Empowered By Nature Lorraine Hughes 845.416.4598 EmpoweredByNature.net

In Balance Concepts

DOBBS FERRY

Sacred Spirit Yoga & Healing Arts Center

343 Broadway (on campus of South Presbyterian Church) sacredspirityogacenter.org

NEW NEW

DOVER PLAINS

Blue Lotus Yoga & Healing Yoga, Reiki, Meditation 5 Dover Village Plaza, Ste 3 845.242.3625; bluelotusyoga.com

HOPEWELL JUNCTION

Redtail Power Yoga 810 Route 82 845.605.2257 redtailpoweryoga.com

MAHOPAC

Reclaim

Yourself: A Yoga and Reiki Infusion will take place at Luna Power Yoga, in Mahopac, on October 15, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Studio owner Cate Bartilucci will provide a short but sweet grounding yoga practice in preparation for Jill Arena to lend her healing hands through a small-group restor ative reiki session.

Arena is a reiki master, yoga teacher and intuitive who specializes in blending intuitive energy healing with modern, Western approaches to nervous system regulation. A Brews ter, New York, native, Arena now lives in North Carolina and takes clients from all over the country, both virtually and in person.

“During this specialty class, you can expect to cozy up and drop into a resting pose with pillows and blankets,” says Bar tilucci. “Jill will then perform reiki—a gentle form of energy healing— for 45 minutes. To wrap up this special class, you will have the opportunity to journal: Unlock your experi ence and highlight any breakthroughs that are unique to you through free writing and guided prompts.”

Journals and writing utensils will be provided to each participant. Participants are encouraged to wear cozy, com fortable clothing and bring their own pillow, light blanket and yoga mat. There will be plenty of time after the session to connect with one another with snacks and tea provided by the studio.

Location: Luna Power Yoga, 54 Miller Rd., Ste. 4, Mahopac, NY. For more information, call 845.276.4619, email info@lunapow eryoga.com or visit LunaPowerYoga.com.

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

YOGA ASSOCIATIONS

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

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

YOGA RETREATS

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

YOGA STUDIOS

BREWSTER

Tula Yoga For Wellness Group, Privates, Specialties 22 Sutton Place; 914.806.3286 Tulayogaforwellness.com

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

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

PAWLING

Pawling Yoga & Wellness 26 East Main St., Ste. 2 845.661.8664 pawlingyogawellness.org

PEEKSKILL

PranaMoon Yoga In Studio + Zoom 1000 N. Division St, 2H 845.528.0318 PranaMoonYoga.com

SOMERS

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

Jill providing Reiki during class. photo: Anna Meyer

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11

The Excretory System: Proper Elimination for Peak Organ Performance – 7-8pm. With Dr. So mesh N. Kaushik, an Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician. Free online lecture through the Pawling Free Library. Register with library: 845.855.3444 or PawlingFreeLibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12

Crystal Healing Educational Workshop –6-8pm. A beginner’s guide for journeying into the world of crystal healing, led by Beth Wing. PelPel legrino Healing Center Salt Cave, 4307 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park. Info: 845.233.5672. Register: pellegrinohealingcenter.com/events.

Sound Meditation – 7-8pm. Restore body-mindspirit harmony with a healing sound meditation. $10. The World Peace Sanctuary, 26 Benton Rd. Wassaic. Contact Cristina Reyes-Schleifer for more info: 917.900.7705.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13

Men’s Retreat: Anxiety & Trauma recover Workshop – 10/13-10/16. With Brett Cotter. Break free from anxiety and reconnect to joy. $2500. Woodridge, Catskills. Info: 833.867.3529 or StressIsGone.org.

Shamanic Healing Hearth, 7-9pm. Participants gather with intention for healing themselves, oth ers and the earth. Experience shamanic journeying, shamanic reiki, drumming, etc. Free. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325; UniversalHealingArts.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14

Paint & Sip – 6-7pm. End the week by winding down and enjoying a nice spirit while creating art. Drinks included. $20. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

Yoga Nidra – 6:30-7:45pm. Resting in savasana or another comfortable position, students are guided through an extensive body scan which allows for deep relaxation. All welcome. In studio $20/ Zoom $12. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 North Division St, Peekskill. 845.528.0318 pranamoonyoga.com

Sound Healing and Meditation – 7-8:30pm. With Lisa Pearl-Edwards, Zee Mendez and Anne Bent zen. Participants raise their vibration, release and restore the energy field with sound, Reiki, “mini”

readings and guided meditation. $40. Balancing 4 Life, 25 Broadway, Suite 101, Pleasantville. Regis ter: Balancing4Life.com; 914.588.4079.

Dear Diary: Conversing with Yourself (Online Writing Retreat) – 7-8:30pm. Four online sessions through 10/16. With Lorraine Ash. Learn techniques of master diarists and ways to start and sustain a publishable diary. For writers of all levels. $150. Info: 914.941.4455; Mariandale.org.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15

Reclaim Yourself: A Yoga & Reiki Infusion – 11am-12:30pm. Grounding yoga practice in preparation for Jill Arena to lend her healing hands through a small-group restorative reiki session. Luna Power Yoga, 54 Miller Rd., Ste. 4, Mahopac. Info: LunaPowerYoga.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16

Harmonizing with the Rhythm of Nature’s Cycles – 10am-12pm. Autumn: Surrender and Re lease. With Gigi. World Peace Sanctuary, 26 Benton Road, Wassaic. Suggested Donation: $25. Info: 845.677.3517. WhiteLotusGrace.com.

3rd Annual SUP Witch Paddle – noon-4pm. (rain date 10/23). Vendors, food, brews and spooky views featuring folks dressed as witches standup paddle boarding (SUP) on the Hudson River. $30 (with own equipment); $45 (with rental). Horan’s Landing Waterfront Park, Sleepy Hollow, Info: RiverTownsSupYoga.com.

Yin Yoga Immersion – 5-6:30pm. With Lela Damico. Meditative style of yoga for an experience of “juiciness” in the joints as well as cultivating a refreshed, stillness of mind. In studio $20/ Zoom $15. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 North Division St, Peekskill. 845.528.0318; pranamoonyoga.com

Forgiving the Villain – 6-9pm. A cathartic writing workshop to create a story to shift a past memory into a therapeutic, fantastical tale where the participant gets to choose the narrative. $30. Moss and Moonlight: Sanctuary for Healing Arts, Hopewell Junction. MossAndMoonlight.com.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17

LGBT+ Spirituality Group – 6-7pm. Discuss the mysteries and enjoy the company of others from the LGBT community. Free. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19

Mediumship 101 – 5:30-6:30pm. Learn to develop psychic abilities by establishing a connection with the other side. $15. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21

Jikiden Reiki Shoden Retreat – Friday 5pmSunday 2pm. Anne Bentzen, Shihankaku teaches original Reiki hands-on treatment to relieve physi cal and emotional dis-ease. Comprehensive, global curriculum from Jikiden Reiki Institute. Commute or stay over. Holmes Camp and Conference Cen ter, 60 Denton Rd, Holmes. Info: 845.878.6383; holmescamp.org

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

Sacred Shamanic Ceremonies and Teachings Weekend Retreat – 10/22 & 10/23. Yima Healing hosts a weekend of sacred shamanic ceremonies and teachings at their retreat center in Putnam Val ley. The event includes lodging and food. $444. Register/info: 914.771.1694 or YimaHealing.com.

Family Retreat Day at Mariandale – 1-4pm. “Come play and pray” and discover the beauty of God’s earth on the banks of the Hudson River. Meet new friends, sing and dance, discovering and sharing God’s love. $25 (per family). Ossining Info: 914.941.4455; Mariandale.org.

Jazz at the Gallery – 3-5pm. Casual event includes Peter Muir at the piano playing a combi nation of early jazz, ragtime and classical music. Music, art and refreshments. Life Energy Arts Gallery 11-13 E Main St, 2nd Floor, Mount Kisco. Info: LifeEnergyArts.Gallery; 914. 335.3800.

New Moon Meditation Circle – 6:30-8pm. With Kristy Cohen. Experience guided meditation fol lowed by Vedic Astrology card deck share and discussion. Everyone welcome. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 North Division St, Peekskill. 845.528.0318 pranamoonyoga.com

Kirtan: Yogic Music – 7-8:30pm. Kirtan uses Sanskrit mantras set to music for a com munity experience, allowing particiantes to feel joy and soothe the mind. $20. Moss and Moonlight: Sanctuary for Healing Arts, Hopewell Junction. MossAndMoonlight.com.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23

Anxiety & Trauma Recover Workshop – With Brett Cotter. Break free from anxiety and reconnect to joy. $222. Mohegan Lake. Info: 833.867.3529 or StressIsGone.org.

Moving by Faith: A Gentle Course of Embodying Inner Trust – 11:30am-12:30pm. With Gigi. This is the first session in a virtual series that meets weekly through November 20 and guides daily practices by email in-between. $309. Info: 845.677.3517; WhiteLotusGrace.com.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23

Wisdom from the Council of Rocks Walk –1-3pm. With Michael Gulbrandsen, founder of Nature’s Whispers. $30. Inner Circle Farm, 40 White Hawk Trl., Patterson. Info: 845.489.7250; walkingthetrail16@gmail.com Also visit MeditativeWalks.com.

Afro-Caribbean Spirituality (Bilingual) – 5:306:30pm. Participants deepen their understanding and knowledge of Afro-Caribbean traditions. $15. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com 914.737.3460.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 24

Sisterhood Group – 6-7pm. Come enjoy all the wonderful things within the feminine mysteries in the company of other women. Free. Perse phone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

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

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25

The Excretory System: Proper Elimination for Peak Organ Performance – 7-8pm. With Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, an Ayurvedic and Naturo pathic physician. Free online lecture through the Desmond-Fish Public Library. Register with library: 845.424.3020 or DesmondFishLibrary.org

Awaken Wellness Fair

Virtual Women’s Circle – 7-9pm. Learn how the Dark Goddess archetype brings truth, depth, and empowerment in life, as well as a ritual to connect to Ancestors. Includes gentle move ment and meditation. $30. Moss and Moonlight: Sanctuary for Healing Arts, Hopewell Junc tion. MossAndMoonlight.com.

Halloween Masquerade Party – 6-10pm. Adults only. Food, drink and live entertainment. $30 ad mission. Please Venmo/Customcandleco. Location: Custom Candle Co 720 N. Bedford Rd, Bedford Hills. Info: 914.218.8357.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

Monthly Séance – 7-9pm. Join others at Perse phone’s Pearl to experience and communicate with the other side. $15. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28

Mystical Moon Monthly Book Circle – Monthly gathering of community, inspiration, reflection, oracles, astrology and rituals using the 2022 Mys tical Moon Journal as a guide. With Merrill Black LCSW and Leslie Lee. (Virtually) via Zoom. $20. Info: 914.793.2600; thetemperancecenter.com.

Paint & Sip – 6-7pm. End the week by winding down and enjoying a nice spirit while creating art. Drinks included. $20. Persephone’s Pearl, 1014B Main St, Peekskill. Info: PersephonesPearl.com; 914.737.3460.

Women’s Circle – 6:30-9pm. Learn how the Dark Goddess archetype brings truth, depth, and empow erment in life, as well as a ritual to connect to An cestors. Includes gentle movement and meditation. $30. Moss and Moonlight: Sanctuary for Healing Arts, Hopewell Junction. MossAndMoonlight.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Drop into Your Best Self: Compassion – 10am12pm. Joy Matalon and Dr. Erica Warren offer facilitated activities, discussions, videos and meditations that support personal growth, feel heard, build empathy and discover community. 43 Lakefront Rd., Putnam Valley. Info: 914.519.8138; DropIntoYourBestSelf.com.

ongoing events

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

markyourcalendar

The Market on The River Sundays through October 9 am - 1 pm

Cortlandt Waterfront Park

Riverview Avenue Verplanck, NY 10596

Produce, Honey, Baked Goods, Farm Fresh Eggs

PranaMoon Yoga at 10 am

LetItShineOnline.com

Info@LetItShineOnline.com

sunday

Rye 2022 Down to Earth Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm. 5/8-12/4. In the parking lot off Theodore Fremd Avenue, behind the Purchase Street stores. Info: DownToEarthMarkets.com.

The Sunday Market on The River – 9am-1pm. Mother’s Day thru Oct. PranaMoon Yoga offers a drop in, all level yoga class on the lawn at 10am. Cortlandt Waterfront Park, 45 Riverview Ave. Ver planck. Info: LetItShineOnline.com.

Reiki Infused Restorative Yoga – 9:30am. A re leasing, restorative practice supported by bolsters and blocks so that the body is completely relaxed. Reiki is used to remove blockages. $20/$12 se niors. Blue Lotus Yoga & Healing, 5 Dover Village Plaza, Suite 3, Dover Plains. Info: Deb Proscher: 845.242.3625; BlueLotusYogaHealing.com.

Luna Power Flow – 9:30-10:30am. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class provides the opportunity to ground through mindful movement and build strength and endurance through power-driven flows. Modifications offered. $25/Drop-in. 54 Miller Rd. Suite 4, Mahopac. Info: 845.276.4619. LunaPowerYoga.com.

Journey into Power Yoga Class – 9:30-11am. This 90 minute signature class is a journey to vitality, power and freedom. All levels. $25/Drop-in, class cards and memberships available. RedTail Power Yoga, 810 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. Info: RedTailPowerYoga.com; 845.605.2257.

Irvington Farmers Market – 9:30am-1pm. 2nd & 4th Sundays. Main Street School parking lot, 101 Main St, Irvington. Info: theirvingtonfarmersmarket.org.

Yonkers 2022 Down to Earth Farmers Market –10am-2pm. 6/5-11/20. Closed street and footpath in Van Der Donck Park at Wood worth Avenue between traffic barriers. Info: DownToEarthMarkets.com.

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

Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market – 10am-2pm. Thru December 18 (no market December 4). Rain or shine. Located outside at the municipal parking lot. Info: Rhinebeckfarmersmarket.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.

monday

1 hour L1 Alignment Vinyasa – 9:30am. All classes include movement, breath work and meditation. Beginners welcome. $20/Drop-in or call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info: 914.806.3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.

Meditation – 10-11am. Soul soothing, spiritually lifting, and devotionally enriching. Guided, man tra, or moving. $25. Millbrook & Virtual. Info: 845.677.3517. WhiteLotusGrace.com.

The Healing Circle – 10:30-11:30am. Via Zoom. Conducted by Beryl Hay. 2nd Mondays. Safe and sacred way to connect to the breath while deepening meditation and mindfulness practices. This practice helps to provide a more compassionate way to live. Info: mariandale.org (calendar).

1 hour L2 Alignment Vinyasa – 5:30pm. All classes include movement, breath work and meditation. Be ginners welcome. $20/Drop-in or call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info: 914.806.3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.

tuesday

Qigong Zoom Class – 9am. With Master David Cunniff. Zoom class. First class is free. In Balance Tai Chi Studio, 2505 Carmel Ave, Suite 108, Brew ster. Info: 845.803.1992 or InBalanceTaiChi.com.

Gentle Slow Flow Yoga – 9:15am. A slower, soothing vinyasa practice. Gently open energy lines, and soothe the nervous system through pranayama, meditation and movement. $20 Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325; UniversalHealingArts.com.

Moderate Kripalu-based Yoga – 9:30-11am. With Chris Glover. In-person and virtual. For more expe rienced practitioners. Nurturing, yet strengthening. Develops a calm nervous system and embodied awareness thru compassionate self-observation. South Presbyterian Church campus, 343 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org

Green Street Radio – 10am. With Patti and Doug Wood. Environmental news, analysis and sciencebased information. Info: greenstreetradio.com. 99.5 FM and WBAI.org

Power Flow – 4:30-5:30pm. Fun and energetic class with a strong emphasis on breath, alignment and flow. $25/Drop-in, class cards and memberships available. RedTail Power Yoga, 810 Route 82, Hopewell Junc tion. Info: RedTailPowerYoga.com; 845.605.2257.

Qigong Class – 5:30pm. With Master David Cun niff. In Studio class for those fully vaccinated. First class is free. In Balance Tai Chi Studio, 2505 Carmel Ave, Suite 108, Brewster. Info: 845.803.1992 or InBalanceTaiChi.com.

Spiritual Support Circle – 4th Mondays, 6-7pm. Participants bring what is on their hearts. Receive to feel lighter, lifted, and richer. Donations welcome. Virtual. Info: 845.677.3517. WhiteLotusGrace.com.

Slow Burn – 6-7pm. Gain strength, stamina and focus through slow, isolated movements targeted to tone and sculpt. All levels. $25/Drop-in, class cards and memberships available. RedTail Power Yoga, 810 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. Info: RedTailPowerYoga.com; 845.605.2257.

Yoga & Sound Bath Infusion – 6:30-7:30pm. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class is set to the sound of beautiful singing bowls played in-person by a sound healer with an extended Savasana. $25/Drop-in. 54 Miller Rd. Suite 4, Mahopac. Info: 845.276.4619. LunaPowerYoga.com

Beginner Qigong Class – 7pm. With Master David Cunniff. In Studio class for those fully vaccinated. First class is free. In Balance Tai Chi Studio, 2505 Carmel Ave, Suite 108, Brewster. Info: 845.803.1992 or InBalanceTaiChi.com.

ai Chi & Qigong – 7pm. Instructor, Sifu Gary Ren za (35 yrs) Cultivate ‘life-force’ energy, strengthen body, mind, spirit, improve your overall health. $20. Drop in. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Info: 914.737.4325; UniversalHealingArts.com.

Breath, Relax & Slow Flow Yoga – 7:30-8:45pm. With Jo-Anne Salomone, CYT. A great slow flow with breath movement and deep relaxation. Open level. (Virtual via zoom) $12. Contact Jo-Anne: 917.364.1871; thetemperancecenter.com.

wednesday

Virtual YogaShine for Adults – 8:30-10am. Kri palu-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.

Luna Power Flow – 9:30-10:30am. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class provides the opportunity to ground through mindful movement and build strength and endurance through power-driven flows. Modifications offered. $25 Drop in. 54 Miller Rd. Suite 4, Mahopac. Info: 845.276.4619. LunaPowerYoga.com

Healing Dance – 11:30am-1pm. Easy flowing energy, lifting movement. Supports spiritual, emo tional, and physical wellness. Meditative and cre ative. $25. Millbrook & Virtual. Info: 845.677.3517; WhiteLotusGrace.com.

planetwatch

October 2022

Astrology with Pamela Cucinell

Slow Dance

Exuberance inspires October 1; prioritize what gets emphasis. Mercury goes retro grade October 2, so communication gets rocky, but a well-planned agenda stays on track. Edit, double check and research through the retrograde for the next few weeks. Tremendous production happens October 3 with focus. Community sup ports desired results October 4, whether mundane or spiritual. Unexpected occur rences October 5 cause detours but need not derail goals.

Stay the Course

Creativity sparks October 6 with keen awareness. On October 7, obstructions block the way forward. Insight on October 8 stirs courage and conviction. The October 9 Aries full moon ignites desire to con front. Curb impulsivity October 10. Follow through on projects for tremendous results October 11. Ambitions stretch to new heights October 12.

Envision Possibilities

Use October 13-14 to get clear on where to take action over the next few months. Map out a realistic course with deadlines that allow for tangents. Reflect and recharge October 15. Old wounds surface but need not dictate outcome on October 16. Pay at tention to your needs October 17; comforts ease familiar aches. Playtime stokes the imagination October 18; romance yourself or someone special.

Autumn Quickens

Power struggles poison potential October 19; choose supportive partners and pare down to essentials. Intentions gather mo mentum October 20. Healing arts’ results magnify October 21; enjoy meditation, therapeutic treatments or work with your hands. Momentum for accountability brews October 22 when those who’ve made good choices benefit. Conversations tip towards justice October 23. The dark of moon October 24 suggests honest discussion and a willingness to compost old beliefs.

Force of Nature

The Scorpio new moon/solar eclipse Octo ber 25 ignites passion — what do you want to fire up? Sort out any residual tumultuous feelings late afternoon and evening October 26. Nature restores equilibrium October 27, when even a picture or film helps. Exercise clears confusion October 28 to keep anger at bay. Acceptance of situations settles the mind October 29 and allows productivity. The Mars retrograde begins October 30; prepare for delays and frustration. Lively connections stimulate this Samhain/ Hal loween; our ancestors remind us to make the most of our time here.

Pamela Cucinell offers a spiritual astrologi cal perspective for the massive changes of our time, as well as guidance through private sessions and podcasts. For more info, call 917.796.6026, email pamela@insightoasis. com, or visit InsightOasis.com and ActiveSpirituality.Life. See ad, page 38.

Qigong Class – 5:30pm. With Master David Cun niff. In Studio class for those fully vaccinated. First class is free. In Balance Tai Chi Studio, 2505 Carmel Ave, Suite 108, Brewster. Info: 845.803.1992 or InBalanceTaiChi.com.

Level 2/3 Alignment Vinyasa – 6:45. With Kathy. All classes include movement, breath work and meditation. Beginners welcome. $20/Drop-in or call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info: 914.806.3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.

Virtual YogaShine for Adults – 7-8:30pm. Kripalubased, gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, developing consciousness, curiosity, and compassion. Lots of individual atten tion. . First class free. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitainvita tion: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com.

thursday

Cat Spay And Neutering Day – 3RD Thursdays

Low cost services provided by the T.A.R.A. Mobile Clinic. Appointments required. Other services avail able. Early morning drop off and late afternoon pick up. Trinity Episcopal Church Parish House, 5 Elm St, Fishkill. Pricing/Info: 845.206.9021.

Gentle Alignment Yoga – 9:30am. With Kathy. All classes include movement, breath work and meditation. Beginners welcome. $20/Drop-in or call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info: 914.806.3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.

The NuSpecian Live – 9:30am. Aston and Jillian talk about health-related topics and NuSpecies products. Viewers can chat during the live show to comment on the topic and ask questions. Info: nuspecies.com/pages/the-nuspecian.

Slow Flow Deep Stretch – 5:306:45pm. With Sarah Fine. Moving mindfindully at a slower pace, using the breath to guide the flow, finding the time to sink in and open up. Alllevels welcome. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 North Division St, Peekskill. 845.528.0318 pranamoonyoga.com.

Power Ease – 7:30-8:30pm. Vin yasa sequence to build heat and prep the body for deep stretching and then hip-opening Yin poses that increase flexibility and create ease. $25/Drop-in. RedTail Power Yoga, 810 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. Info: RedTailPowerYoga.com ; 845.605.2257.

friday

New Rochelle 2022 Down to Earth Farmers Market – 9am-2pm, 06/03-10/28. Thomas Paine Cottage Museum. New Rochelle. Info: DownToEarthMarkets.com.

The NuSpecian Live – 9:30am. Aston and Jillian talk about health-related topics and NuSpecies products. Viewers can chat during the live show to comment on the topic and ask questions. Info: nuspecies.com/pages/the-nuspecian.

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. South Presbyterian Church campus, 343 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry. Info/ register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org

Virtual Chair YogaShine, Super Gentle, for Senior Adults and Adults with Special Needs/ Health and Recovery concerns 10:30-11:30 am. Gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous sys tem, heart-centered, Kripalu-based, developing cu riosity, flexibility, and compassion. Vitalah Simon. Zoom invitation: 914.769.8745, yogashine.com.

Qi Gong Class – 10:30-11:45am. With Lorraine Hughes. Fridays. Simple movements aligned with breathwork to alleviate stress and promote flexibility. open to everyone, regardless of physical capabilities. $100/5 class package. Dutchess Yoga, 1820 Route 376, Poughkeepsie. Info: EmpoweredByNature.net.

Healing Dance – 11:30am-1pm. Easy flowing ener gy lifting movement. Supports spiritual, emotional, and physical wellness. Meditative and creative. $25. Millbrook and virtual. Info: 845.677.3517; WhiteLotusGrace.com.

Qigong Class – 5:30pm. With Master David Cun niff. In Studio class for those fully vaccinated. First class is free. In Balance Tai Chi Studio, 2505 Carmel Ave, Suite 108, Brewster. Info: 845.803.1992 or InBalanceTaiChi.com.

Luna Gentle Flow – 5:30pm. This all-levels gentle class is geared towards those looking to ease into their practice, while still developing awareness of their body through stretching, strength building, and breathwork. Modifications offered. $25 Drop in. 54 Miller Rd. Suite 4, Mahopac. Info: 845.276.4619. LunaPowerYoga.com

Clean Ride and Drive Expo. See October 2.

saturday

Yoga Teachers Association Workshops – 2nd Sat. Open to yoga teachers and students, members and nonmembers. Club Fit, 584 N State Rd, Briarcliff Manor and/or via Zoom. Info: ytayoga.com Chappaqua farmers market – 8:30am-1pm. Opens May 7. Located at the South Lot, Chappaqua train station. Info: chappaquafarmersmarket.org.

Larchmont 2022 Down to Earth Farmers Market – 8:30am-1:00pm. Thru 12/17. ). At the front of the Metro-North upper lot, Chatsworth Ave/Myrtle Blvd. Larchmont. Info/updates: DownToEarthMarkets.com.

Ossining 2022 Down to Earth Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm. Year-Round. Parking lot near the corner of Spring and Main Streets. Info/updates: downtoearthmarkets.com.

Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow Farmers Market, The TaSH – 8:30am-1:30am. Patriots Park. Info: tashfarmersmarket.org.

Pleasantville Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm. Through Nov. 19. Metro-North Parking Lot, 10 Memorial Plaza, Pleasantville. Information: pleasantvillefarmersmarket.org.

Open Vinyasa – 8:30-9:45am. With Betsy Egan. All levels, uplifting vinyasa class, for each student to experience their own personal journey finding increased strength, balance, flexibility, and a sense of personal growth and discovery. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 North Division St, Peekskill. 845.528.0318 pranamoonyoga.com.

1 hour L1 Alignment Vinyasa – 9am. With Kathy. All classes include movement, breath work and meditation. Beginners welcome. $20/Drop-in or call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info: 914.806.3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.

Kingston Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Thru Nov 19. County Courthouse parking lot, 285 Wall St, Kingston. Info: Kingstonfarmersmarket.org.

2022 John Jay Homestead Farmer Market –9am-2pm. Members first pick 9 to 9:30am. Thru

Oct. 29. In the barnyard; use the Farm Lane entrance. Parking is available in the field in front of the white Brick Cottage. 400 Jay St, Katonah. Info: johnjayhomestead.org.

Intermediate Kripalu-based Yoga – 9:1510:30am. With Kathleen Hinge. In-person and vir tual. For more experienced practitioners. Be guided through more advanced postures, and invited to hold poses longer and explore personal variations. South Presbyterian Church campus, 343 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org

Luna Power Flow – 9:30-10:30am. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class provides the opportunity to ground through mindful movement and build strength and endurance through power-driven flows. Modifications offered. $25/Drop-in. 54 Miller Rd. Suite 4, Mahopac. Info: 845.276.4619. LunaPowerYoga.com

Cold Spring Farmers’ Market – 10am-1pm. Outdoors in the Boscobel House and Gardens, 1601 NY-9D, Garrison Info: csfarmmarket.org.

Hudson Valley Farmers Market- 10am-3pm. Year round. A one stop shop farmers market with fresh Hudson Valley products. 227 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook. Info: GreigFarm.com; 845.758.1234.

Beginner Kripalu-based Yoga – 10:45am-12noon. 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. South PresPres byterian Church campus, 343 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org

Bhakti Healing Arts – 11:30am-12:30 PM. An cient spiritual healing practices from devotional wisdom of the Vedas. Gentle, intuitive, timeless, and transformative. $25. Millbrook & Virtual. Info: 845.677.3517. WhiteLotusGrace.com.

Aston’s Virtual Office Hours – 4-5pm. Every other Saturday. An open forum for those that are new to NuSpecies or currently on the products to ask any questions they have. Info: nuspecies.com/pages/ webinar-registration

classifieds

Email Dana-NA@WakeUpNaturally.com to place a listing.

HELP WANTED

CROSS RIVER: FULL TIME. Ayurvedic clinic in Yellow Monkey Village. Front desk and treat ment areas. Greet patients, schedule appointments, handle phones/inventory/billing. Work with patients in treatment areas. Dr. Kaushik 646.670.6725 (cell); 914.875.9088 (clinic).

FULL TIME BOOKKEEPING, Nationwide Maintenance LLC. We’re looking for someone who has good working knowledge of Quickbooks Desktop, Accounts Payable and overall bookkeep ing skills. Please email resume to marcie@nwmgc. com or call us at 914.241.1010.

FULL TIME NATIONWIDE MAINTE NANCE LLC; Answer phones, filing, data entry, someone with computer skills, Microsoft and quick books knowledge. Must have good communications skills. Please email resume to marcie@nwmgc or call us at 914.241.1010.

LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST. EXPE RIENCED TAROT READER. Universal Heal ing Arts in Cortlandt Manor. Contact: shima@ universalhealingarts.com, 914.737.4325, Univer salHealingArts.com.

PART TIME/ FULL TIME; SERVERS, BARISTAS AND KITCHEN STAFF. Brook lyn Organic Kitchen is looking for like-minded individuals to join our team! Previous restaurant ex perience is required, references will be checked. Re sumes may be emailed to brooklynorganickitchen@ gmail.com.

PART TIME/ FULL TIME CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SALES. Custom Candle Co. We’re looking for someone who has customer service experience, good communication skills and sales experience. Please email resume to Info@ customcandleco.com or call us at 914.218.8357.

VENDORS

EXHIBITORS, SPEAKERS, INTUITIVE READERS, HEALER SPOTS AVAILABLE – Awaken Wellness Fair November 20, 2022 Tar rytown, NY. Visit AwakenFair.com for details.

List

CLASSIFIED HERE

Regional exposure in Westchester, Putnam & Dutchess

SUP Witch Paddle. See October 16.

community resource directory

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

ACCOUNTING/TAX SERVICES

STERNBACH & ROSE, CPAS

115 E. Stevens Ave, Suite 100 Valhalla, NY 10595 914.940.4449; sandrcpa.com

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

ADDICTION CESSATION

QUIT WITH QUINN

Midtown Manhattan and Garrison Steve.healingny@gmail.com 914.473.2015; QuitWithQuinn.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. 90% success rate. See ad pg 29.

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 38.

ACUPUNCTURE

LAURIE R. MALLIS, MD, LAC

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

Frustrated with not feeling or looking your best? Let me guide you on your path to better health and well-being. Utilizing: Medical Acupuncture, ONDAMED Biofeedback Therapy, Reiki, Mei Zen Acupuncture for facial rejuvenation, weight loss and fertility. See ad pg 41.

HEATHER PERLOW, L.AC.

Concentric Acupuncture 875 Mamaroneck Ave, Ste 303, Mamaroneck 914.200.3343; ConcentricAcupuncture.com

Let’s restore your health together! My personalized treatment plans promote healing through acupuncture, cupping, gua sha and microneedling. I treat pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, digestive and skin issues, pre/ post-surgical care, gynecological issues, arthritis, facial rejuvenation and more.

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

KARLA BOOTH DIAMOND, MAMSAT

Member: Westchester Holistic Network 11 Main St, 2nd Floor, Mount Kisco, NY 10549 914.649.9565; Awareness-in-Action.com

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.

AYURVEDA

DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC Yellow Monkey Village

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

Combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may includesupplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. Clinic days: M-F. See ad pg 31.

ALTERNATIVE HEALING

QUANTUM HEALING & WELLNESS

175 E. Main St., Ste 202, Mt. Kisco, NY 914.218.3428 quantumhealingandwellnessspma.com

Give your body the energy to heal itself! The Energy Enhancement SystemTM is Bio-Scalar Photonic Fusion technology [aka, Tesla Waves] that generates multiple bio-active life enhancing energy fields, including scalar waves, which can allow cell regeneration, and enhance your energy levels for optimum function.. See ad pg 9.

BEHAVIORAL OPTOMETRY

SAMANTHA SLOTNICK, OD, FAAO, FCOVD 495 Central Park Ave, Suite 301, Scarsdale 914.874.1177; DrSlotnick.com

A whole-person, holistic approach to vision care, for all ages. Specializing in vision therapy and rehabilitation for vision problems which interfere with reading, learning, attention, performance and efficiency. Please visit website for details.

CBD

YOUR CBD OF WAPPINGERS

1582 U.S. 9 #5, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 845.297.0302; CBDWappingers.com

YOUR CBD OF MT. KISCO

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

YOUR CBD OF RYE 131 Purchase St., Store #3, Rye, NY 10580 914.921.1073; ShopNY606@GetSunmed.com

YOUR CBD STORE OF WHITE PLAINS

365 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NY 10605 914.358.9748; CBD@CBDWhitePlains.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.

UPPER CERVICAL CHIROPRACTIC OF NY

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

Dr. Gertner himself suffered with back pain due to an injury. With upper cervical chiropractic treatments, his body began to “heal itself” and the relentless pain that had plagued him quickly left his body. This inspired him to become one of only 5 NUCCA chiropractors in New York, and less than 200 worldwide, currently. He experienced amazing results and he knows you will too. See ad pg 55.

ENERGY HEALING

ANNE H. BENTZEN

Certified Jikiden Reiki Teacher/Practitioner Treatments, Classes and Student Events

Custom BACH Flower Essence formulas Energy Counseling, Crystalline grids 25 Broadway, Ste.101, Pleasantville, NY balancing4life.com; 914.588.4079

Health requires energetic balance. Reiki clears stress, reduces pain, inflammation and restores energy flow. Strengthen your immunity. Relieve anxiety. Depression and insomnia. Learn the original Reiki teachings with Jikiden. Private sessions and small classes. See ad pg 38.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

JOY MATALON LMT, CST Locations: Ossining, Garrison 914.519.8138; Joymatalon.com

FLOATATION THERAPY

RISE ABOVE FLOATATION

CHIROPRACTIC

ATLAS ORTHOGONAL CHIROPRACTIC

Paul V. Scarborough, DC, BCAO

77 Pond Field Rd., 1F-2A 914.704.3005; atlasorthogonist.com

Dr. Paul Scarborough has relo cated to Bronxville, NY from his NYC location to continue practic ing Atlas Orthogonal, a subspe cialty in Chiropractic. Specific x-rays are taken utilizing state of the art equipment, treatment is administered with the Atlas Orthogonal Percus sion adjusting instrument, secondary treatments are incorporated as needed. See ad pg 41.

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!

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

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!

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.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

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.

Autumn is the time of year when Mother Nature says, “Look how easy, how healthy and how beautiful letting go can be.

~Toni Sorenson

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 15.

HERBAL MEDICINE

LORRAINE HUGHES

Registered Herbalist (AHG)

263 New Hackensack Road, 2nd Floor Wappingers Falls, NY 12590

lorrainehughes54@gmail.com EmpoweredbyNature.net; 845.416.4598

Lorraine offers Individual Wellness Consultations based on the Chinese Herbal Medicine Paradigm which provides a preventative and individual approach to balanced health. Each “unique” individual protocol will include Chinese, Western, Ayurvedic Herbal remedies and Nutritional planning.

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.

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 19.

MATTRESSES

DAVIS FURNITURE

HOLISTIC DENTIST

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 3.

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.

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 31.

NUTRITION

NUSPECIES

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 5.

HOMEOPATHY

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.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA

LYNN PARODNECK M.D.

Certified Medical Marijuana Practitioner 914.525.6536; DrParodneck@gmail.com DrLynnParodneck.com

Evaluations and Consultations; Dr. Parodneck works in 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 33.

OFFICE OF DR. MICHAEL WALD

Dr. Michael Wald, DC, Board Certified Nutritionist 29 King St, 2nd Fl, Chappaqua, NY 10514 914.552.1442 - info@blooddetective.com DrMichaelWald.com; #BloodDetective

Dr. Wald is a holistic DC, Nutritionist, and Dietician who’s Blood Detective software, labs and detailed consult help get to the cause(s) of persistent health issues. Conditions include autoimmune, weight loss, antiaging, cancer, GI issues, depression, and more. See ad pg 11.

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, inte grative approach. Customized treatments utilizing the best of today’s technology combined with nutrition and 30 years of experience.

SALT ROOM SPA

HUDSON RIVER HEALING & WELLNESS

290 Main St., Cold Spring NY 845.240.1822; HRHealingWellness.com

Improve overall wellness. Breather, Relax, Restore. Services offered; Salt Room, CBD Products, Red/Infrared Light therapy, Thai Bodywork, Massage, Craniosacral work, Percussive therapy, Reiki, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Myofacial Release, Meditation, Yoga and more.

REFLEXOLOGY

LORRAINE HUGHES

ARCB Certified Reflexologist

263 New Hackensack Road, 2nd Floor Wappingers Falls, NY 12590

lorrainehughes54@gmail.com

EmpoweredbyNature.net; 845.416.4598

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.

SLEEP 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 3.

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.

SUPPORT GROUP

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 3.

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 Midtown Manhattan and Garrison 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. 90% success rate. See ad pg 29.

RETREATS

YOGA IN THE ADIRONDACKS

(YitA) at The Divine Acres

“Where Yoga Embraces Nature” 2 Coulter Road, Bakers Mills, NY 12811 518.251.3015; YogaInTheAdirondacks.com

YitA at the Divine Acres is a yoga shala – a safe place for healing and becoming healthy within our authentic selves. Eliminate distractions and illuminate positivity to focus on our true intentions. YitA is a place of education and joy, with miniature donkeys and sheep that add love to this divine space.

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. See ad pg 33.

WELLNESS CENTER

ALTERNATIVE HEALING CLINIC

The Future of Medicine

By appt: 914.330.5594

AlternativeHealingClinic.com

At Alternative Healing Clinic, Dr. Jordan, NA.D., Ph.D. Naturologist finds causes of sub-health conditions and locates natural solutions that clear acute and chronic issues through an FDA approved non-invasive test creating your effective wellness plans. Free consultation. See ad pg 17.