Natural Awakenings - Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess NY Edition September 2020 by Natural Awakenings Westchester Putnam Dutchess Edition

EE R F

HEALTHY LIVING

HEALTHY PLANET

EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

Self-Care for Tough Times

Natural Antivirals Strengthen Your Immune System

YOGA EVERY BODY for

LOCAL YOGA NEWS & RESOURCES September 2020 | Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess Edition | WakeUpNaturally.com 1 September 2020

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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September 2020

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from publishers Your body exists in the past and your mind exists in the future. In yoga, they come together in the present.

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

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elcome to our annual yoga and emotional well-being issue. I love Dana Boulanger Marilee Burrell this time of the year. Although I’m never happy to see summer end, I always welcome the new activities and cooler temperatures September brings. I’m planning one last beach weekend, and then I’ll be ready for fall. This year especially, you can feel new energy emerging as the pace of life begins to quicken. September is yoga month—the perfect time for us to focus on this heart-centered meditative practice and to highlight the local yoga community. And by serendipity, it’s also the perfect time to celebrate some good news for New York’s yoga studios. While studios have been closed for the past several months due to the coronavirus, Governor Cuomo recently announced that they can reopen with certain restrictions this month. Over the summer, studio owners have had to be resilient and flexible. Many teachers adapted by offering live yoga classes on Zoom, or outdoors with social distancing. To get a better understanding of how the pandemic may be permanently changing the landscape of this unique business, read “The Future of Yoga in Hudson Valley,” on page 32. In the meantime, you can stay up to date with the latest news, workshops, classes and retreats in our special yoga section, starting on page 28, and in our calendar, on pages 42 to 45. Throughout Hudson Valley, what it takes to do business continues to evolve. Some businesses are closing their doors for good, while others are reinventing themselves. BeWies, a cherished mom-and-daughter natural food market in Armonk, closed on August 21, but with plans to re-emerge, reimagined, in the near future. Read more on page 14. Brooklyn Organic Kitchen has recently opened its doors in Mahopac, four years after owner Sandra Marinelli closed her previous business, Brooklyn Coffee House & Tea Bar. Her new organic and plant-based café has indoor and outdoor seating, takeout, curbside and lakeside pickup to accommodate new restrictions. Read more on page 11. We have plenty of other local news too, starting on page 8. The pandemic and the need for social distancing are affecting people in different ways. Some have thrived, enjoying the slower pace of a less-busy world. Others are overwhelmed or have struggled with financial, health or emotional issues. The combination of isolation and change can be daunting, and so Kristin Neff offers suggestions for dealing with them in our feature article “Emotional Well-Being in the Pandemic Age,” on page 24. She teaches that mindful awareness and self-compassion—that is, showing yourself kindness in every situation—is the first step toward feeling better. Along the same lines, research shows that looking for the positives in life makes us happier people. “Happiness Helpers: Five Ways to Be More Positive,” on page 40, lists simple practices anyone can use to cultivate more joy in daily life. Mood and food affect our health, and keeping our baseline health up is important to staying disease-free. Experts say eating five to seven servings of vegetables and three servings of fruit a day will ward off inflammation and new viral infections. Recommendations for immunity-boosting supplements include melatonin, licorice root extract and Astragalus. To learn more about this proactive approach to well-being, read “Natural Antivirals: Help in Staying Strong and Healthy,” on page 22. We hope you enjoy this month’s edition! Be happy and be well~

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Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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September 2020

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Natural Awakenings is a family of nearly 60 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 26 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Contents 18 SPICE UP HEALTH

Using Herbs for Flavor and Medicine

22 NATURAL ANTIVIRALS Help in Staying Strong and Healthy

EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING IN THE PANDEMIC AGE

Self-Care Strategies for Tough Times

28 LOCAL YOGA News and Resources

32 THE FUTURE OF YOGA IN HUDSON VALLEY

Teachers and studios rethink what it means to ‘do yoga’

36 YOGA FOR EVERY BODY

Adaptive Ways Ease Pain and Immobility

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

38 SANDRA MARINELLA

on the Healing Power of Writing Our Stories

40 HAPPINESS HELPERS Five Ways to Be More Positive

DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 16 health briefs 17 global briefs 18 conscious eating 22 healing ways 28 local yoga

36 fit body 38 wise words 40 inspiration 42 calendar 43 planet watch 45 classifieds 47 resource guide September 2020

news briefs

Homeopathy Course Begins Online in October

usanne Saltzman, M.D., a general practitioner and homeopathic medicine specialist in Hartsdale, will teach a 60-hour Zoom course in homeopathy beginning in October. Dr. Susanne Saltzman Comprising 10 Saturday sessions, the course is intended for lay people as well as health professionals who want to learn how to treat their family, friends or patients with homeopathic remedies. “Too many people have become dependent on pharmaceutical medication with all its attendant side effects,” Saltzman says. “Homeopathy works with the body to help bring it into balance, not merely suppress symptoms as most pharmaceuticals do. Homeopathy harnesses the natural healing abilities of the human body, which is more powerful than most people realize. Although homeopathy can treat a variety of serious diseases in the hands of a qualified practitioner, most people can learn to treat simple illnesses such as the flu, allergies and upper-respiratory infections, as well as IBS and other common disorders.” While the course is designed to be both informative and enjoyable, with an informal atmosphere, students should be prepared to do some work, including homework assignments, she says. A graduate of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Saltzman also practices functional medicine, and so her course will include lessons on the importance of nutrition and the gut microbiome to overall health, and on strengthening the immune system with supplements. “Because homeopathy has an excellent record in the treatment of epidemics, such as the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, students will also learn what homeopathic medicines to have on hand during the current crisis,” she says. Cost: $1,800. For more info, call 914.472.0666, email susannesaltzman@aol.com or visit HartsdaleHomeopathy.com. See ad, page 9. 8

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

Greg Ribaudo at Peak Wellness

Integrative Health Coach Creates ‘Bio-Hacking’ Facility

ntegrative health coach Greg Ribaudo, of Peak Wellness, has created a private, spa-like “bio-hacking” facility in Somers. Clients are viewed holistically according to many factors, including diet, breathing, hydration, sleep habits, bioenergetic field, trapped emotions and toxin exposure, Ribaudo says. They rotate through a curated hour of protocols known as a wellness circuit, stacking four to eight modalities designed to give maximum results with minimal effort. “Our cutting-edge technology helps clients supercharge their vitality, boost their immune system, break through health challenges and achieve a peak life,” he says. “Modern society and current world events have left many people in a state of anxiety and stress, as well as a more sedentary and indoor lifestyle. We reconnect clients to the powerful healing elements of nature and tools to heal and live in balance.” He says one protocol that’s particularly relevant right now, when people are concerned about protecting their lungs, is Exercise with Oxygen. This 15-minute session of light cardio with supplemental oxygen is designed to boost energy and lung function, oxygenate the blood and improve brain function. “Fifteen minutes of Exercise with Oxygen generates the results of an hour of traditional cardio,” Rebaudo says. At another station, the client rests on a pulsed electromagnetic frequency (PEMF) mat while bathing in warm near-infrared lights. Rebaudo says PEMF raises the body’s cellular charge, increases blood flow and reverses the damage of EMF exposure from cell phones, Wi-Fi and “dirty” electricity. Red light therapy, or Photo Biomodulation, charges the mitochondria, boosts collagen production and testosterone, and generates a feeling of well-being, much like sunbathing, he says. The circuit concludes with a 20-minute Binaural Beat Restorative Meditation, which uses state-of-the-art meditation software and a bio-signaling patch to balance the nervous system and take the client from a stress state to the parasympathetic “rest and digest” state within minutes. Peak Wellness also offers hydrogen therapy, infrared sauna detoxification, ionic footbaths, blood-flow restriction weight training, vibration platform workouts, corrective postural exercises, gemstone infrared chakra healing mats and Emotional Release Therapy. Location: Peak Wellness, 13 Edgewood Dr., Katonah, NY. For more info, call 914.301.3393, email peakwellnessny@gmail.com or visit PeakWellnessNY.com. See ad, page 13. WakeUpNaturally.com

September 2020

news briefs

Support-A-Walk Goes Nationwide This Year

he annual Support-A-Walk, presented by Support Connection, in Yorktown Heights, will take place on October 4, with a new theme: Walk With Us, Wherever You Are! For the first time the event will be nationwide as well as local. Rather than having a single, coordinated walk on a designated route, anyone in the United States can participate in their own city, town or neighborhood to bring help Team Putnam Valley Girls at last year’s walk and hope to people fighting breast and ovarian cancer. In past years Support-A-Walk has attracted thousands of walkers from across the Hudson Valley who participate in celebration of or in tribute to those affected by these diseases. Proceeds help fund Support Connection’s free, year-round programs and services for local residents as well as its nationwide toll-free and web services. Although there’s no official walking route for Support-A-Walk this year, there are many ways to participate. They include walking solo or with family and friends, or forming a Walk Team; making donations online or by mail; and raising funds online by asking others to donate. Participants can donate and fundraise whether or not they walk. For more info or to make a donation, call 914.962.6402 or visit SupportConnection.org. See ad, page 39.

Remote and In-Person Help Available for Addiction and Mental Health Issues

ddictions are at an all-time high right now—and understandably so, says Stephen Quinn, owner/ practitioner at Quit with Quinn. “People are experiencing uncertainty and being forced to face themselves in ways most of them couldn’t have imagined just months ago,” Quinn says. “The world is going through a massive change, which has a very, very high end—a spiritual end—and a correspondingly powerful low end. They move together, as they are two parts of the same upgrade.” He notes that stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, Stephen Quinn anger, self-management issues, grief, loss, confusion, and lack of security and stability are all on the rise, as people are being forced to learn to deal with themselves—or not—as life marches on. At Quit with Quinn, his focus is healing addiction by healing the energetic imbalance at the root of addiction. He also helps with anxiety, depression and all the other issues listed above. “I’ve been doing this for over 20 years with a very high success rate, not only with addictions, but with stress and anxiety and other energetic imbalances,” he says. “Right now I’m seeing people in person and remotely over Zoom. Every Thursday in September, from 6 to 7 p.m., I’m offering a free Q&A session over Zoom for anyone who wants to learn about our addiction-cessation treatments for smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss or any other issues you may be facing right now.” For more info, call 914.473.2015 or visit QuitwithQuinn.com. See ad, page 37. 10

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Inside Brooklyn Organic Kitchen

Brooklyn Organic Kitchen Opens to the Public

rooklyn Organic Kitchen, an organic and plant-based café focused on serving nourishing and energizing dishes, officially opened its South Lake Boulevard location on July 25. The new restaurant’s soft opening came after owner and chef Sandra Marinelli closed Brooklyn Coffee House & Tea Bar, a widely successful Mahopac eatery, in 2016. During the four-year hiatus, Marinelli retooled her culinary arsenal through education and private cheffing to develop nutritious and creative dishes designed to satisfy the needs of all types of dietary preferences. Continuing Brooklyn Coffee House & Tea Bar’s legacy, Brooklyn Organic Kitchen’s menu consists of an array of meals with USDA-certified organic, vegan, non-GMO, fair-trade and locally sourced ingredients. Open for breakfast and lunch, the new restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, takeout, curbside and lakeside pickup, all in compliance with New York State Department of Health standards. Marinelli says she plans to expand hours and indoor capacity as Covid-19 protocols change in the weeks to come. Location: Brooklyn Organic Kitchen, 890 South Lake Blvd., Mahopac, NY. For more info, contact Sandra Marinelli at 914.384.4104 or brooklynorganickitchen@ gmail.com, or visit BOKMahopac.com. Follow BOK on Instagram at brooklynorganickitchen and on Facebook at Brooklyn organic kitchen. See ad, page 19.

September 2020

Dr. Kaushik’s Clinic Increases Hours and Offers Online Lectures

risis offers opportunity. Amid the lockdowns, closings and chaos of Covid-19, Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic & Naturopathic Clinic, in Cross River, rose to the occasion by increasing its clinical hours Dr. Kaushik from three days to five, adding telemedicine for consultations and, to meet the demand for current health information, making its free monthly educational lectures weekly events. “By taking advantage of online platforms, my clinic joined the learning curve of the rest of the world in this new style of connecting,” says Somesh Kaushik, ND. He developed a series of hour-long lectures, starting with one on the virus itself, followed by topics associated with it: the immune system; stress/insomnia; anxiety/depression; autoimmunity; diabetes; heart health; and the healing power of gratitude. The lectures quickly booked through the end of the year, Kaushik says. As the scope of the virus increased, so did the series. New topics were added, including gut health; detox pathways of the kidney, liver and lymph; multi-organ inflammatory disease; allergies/asthma; and addictions. Now this expanded information will reach an expanded community. Starting in January, the series will be offered throughout the Putnam County Library system. “Thanks to the Desmond-Fish Public Library in Garrison, initiators of the idea, the yearlong series will be broadcast monthly to a countywide audience using the co-host platform Crowdcast,” Kaushik says. He also conducts online curriculum courses in Ayurvedic Health Counseling and Ayurvedic Practitioner training. Certification for these courses is offered through NAMA, the National Ayurvedic Medical Association. Location: Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Clinic, 792 Rte. 35, Cross River, NY. For more info, call 914.875.9088; email drkaushik@ drkaushik.com or visit DrKaushik.com. For telemedicine, call 646.670.6725. See ad page 13. 12

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

Balance Bodywork Massage and Reiki Offers Outdoor Sessions

icensed massage therapist and Reiki Master Lisanne Elkins, owner of Balance Bodywork, says that after a fourmonth hiatus perpetuated by Covid-19, she started “thinking outside the office.” Now she’s offering her services in a canopy tent in her wooded backyard in the Croton-on-Hudson/Yorktown area. “In this unprecedented, stressful pandemic, I knew I needed to get back to work. People need stress relief now more than ever,” Elkins says. “So I created a priLisanne Elkins’ outdoor massage tent vate, aesthetically-pleasing environment for outdoor massage and Reiki sessions. I knew there had to be a way to conduct sessions using special precautions and the New York State-designated Covid protocol.” This new protocol includes temperature checks, a special intake form that must be received 24 hours before a session, and both client and practitioner wearing face coverings. All surfaces in the new space are thoroughly sanitized before and after each session, and Elkins uses disposable, single-use face cradle covers and plenty of hand sanitizer. “The new tent has ample air flow, yet at the same time, the space is contained, relaxing, adequately protected and sheltered,” she says. “Massage and Reiki sessions in the new tent studio will take place until sometime in late October. I intend to return to my Mt. Kisco office when it is prudent to do so.” For appointments, contact Lisanne Elkins at 914.319.4375, lmt@balancebodywork.biz or balancebodywork@optonline.net or on Facebook. For more info, visit BalanceBodyWork.biz.

Fall Is the Time for Tax Planning

all is a great time of year to consider tax planning, says Ellen Rose of Sternbach & Rose CPAs, a woman-owned, full-service accounting firm located in Valhalla. “Meeting with a tax professional before the end of the year and the busy Christmas season can help you save on taxes. Tax planning ahead of time can allow you to reduce income, increase your tax deduction and take advantage of Ellen Rose & Felecia Sternbach available tax credits,” Rose says. Besides planning ahead, the best way to save on taxes is to get a good tax advisor, she says. “Tax laws change every year, and what you don’t know can and will cost you money.” While many people wait until tax season to consult with a CPA, tax advisors are available for advice and help throughout the year. “If you have financial decisions to make during the year, this advice could be invaluable,” Rose says. “Most people would benefit greatly from the services of a certified public accountant.” Location: Sternbach & Rose CPAs, 115 E. Stevens Ave., Ste. 100, Valhalla, NY. For more info or a free first-time consultation, call 914.940.4449, email info@sandrcpa. com or visit sandrcpa.com. WakeUpNaturally.com

September 2020

BeWies Market Closes, New Business Coming

ast month Amy Berman and Julie Wiesen, the mother-and-daughter owners of BeWies Holistic Market in Armonk, closed the store they opened together in 2013. While Berman is retiring, Wiesen plans to launch a new, more “pandemic-friendly” business soon. “Business changed so much during the pandemic that we didn’t see the (original) store aligning with our initial ideas and goals as a result,” Wiesen says. While her plans for the future store Amy Berman and Julie Wiesen aren’t solidified, Wiesen says it will continue to offer customer favorites like granola bars, breakfast cookies, soups, salad dressings and sweet potato slices, as well as some newly developed items that are in the works. “The idea of a CSA/food share co-op is being tossed around as well, with these items being included in the weekly boxes,” she says. The best way to stay up to speed is to opt in for their email lists or follow Bewies_market on Facebook and Instagram. “We are immensely grateful to all our customers and friends we have met over the years who challenged us to increase our offerings and made all the hard work worth it,” Wiesen says. “We did it for you guys, and you all made it worth it. We are incredibly excited for this next chapter in the story of BeWies and look forward to serving an even larger customer base.”

Dr. Samantha Slotnick

Behavioral Optometrist Develops Strategies to Ease Visual Stress

Dr. Samantha Slotnick has offices at 495 Central Park Ave, Ste. 301, Scarsdale, NY. For more information, call 914.874.1177 or visit DrSlotnick.com. 14

Rosedale Nurseries to Host Native Plant Weekend

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hese unprecedented times have offered mixed blessings: While social distancing keeps us apart, social networking brings us all closer from the safety and comfort of our homes. But according to Dr. Samantha Slotnick, a behavioral optometrist in Scarsdale, this increased screen time comes with a new set of physical and cognitive demands that can interfere with our ability to keep our nervous system—and our visual system—in balance. There are several signs and symptoms of increased visual stress, Slotnick says. Some are more obvious, like increased eyestrain, tension and/or headaches; intermittent blurry vision; and a tendency to lean in close to computer screens and mobile devices. But others are subtler, like increased shoulder and neck discomfort; difficulty maintaining concentration; and re-reading material for comprehension. During the height of the pandemic, Slotnick shared her holistic approach to vision care with her optometric colleagues in a series of lectures presented worldwide. She then distilled them into an article to help clinicians in all health fields understand the impact of stress on the use of one’s visual field, and on eye-focusing, eye-teaming and eye-movement skills. She calls that cumulative effect the Sympathetic Overdrive Cascade. In a grassroots effort to support members of her community, Slotnick also created a webinar presentation of self-help exercises and strategies to alleviate screenbased visual stress. That webinar is now available at DrSlotnick.com/diffusestress.

osedale Nurseries, in Hawthorne, will host the 11th annual Native Plant Weekend from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on September 12 and 13, with a percentage of sales benefiting The Native Plant Center, which is temporarily closed due to Covid-19. Thousands of native plants will be in stock, and “personal shoppers” knowledgeable about them will be on hand to help guests select plants for their garden. Guests are asked to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. Members of The Native Plant Center receive a 10 percent discount at the sale as well as all year round. While the campus of Westchester Community College in Valhalla, where The Native Plant Center gardens are located, remains closed to visitors, the Center staff has been busy getting ready for the annual sale, as well as expanding the Lady Bird Johnson Demonstration Garden and planning virtual Go Native U classes for fall, says Director Carol Capobianco. “We appreciate everyone’s support and understanding through these trying times and look forward to when we can be together in person once again,” she says, adding that the Center is looking for volunteers for gardening, educational outreach, marketing, fundraising and similar activities. “Many opportunities and flexible work times are available. Chances are we need the skills you can offer.” Location: Rosedale Nurseries, 51 Saw Mill River Rd., (Rte. 9A), Hawthorne, NY. For more information about the sale, or about donating to or volunteering for The Native Plant Center, call 914.606.7870 or visit NativePlantCenter.org.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Advertorial

PolarAid®: Harness the Powerful, Vital Energy Surrounding Us!

any medical diagnostic tools—including electrocardiogram (ECG), electroencephalogram (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—measure electromagnetic parameters in the body in order to assess overall health or specific organ function. We think of these tests as modern, yet scientific pioneers Georges Lakhovsky and Nikola Tesla were using electromagnetism in the 1930s to address certain medical issues. Their technology is the inspiration for PolarAid, a handheld device designed for use at home to support health and healing. “Lakhovsky and Tesla achieved amazing results using highfrequency oscillators and vortex antennas on a large number of patients with a variety of health problems, as well as cosmetic issues such as facial imperfections,” says Dino Tomic, M.D. “I was fascinated by this story, so along with a few of my fellow doctors and engineers, I managed to procure and make the most of the equipment and devices Lakhovsky and Tesla once used. We found that we could support our patients with problems they had struggled with for years—problems that weren’t helped by conventional medical treatment.” Tomic says that as a gynecological physician practicing conventional medicine, he had been frustrated by his limited ability to help patients. Searching for complementary ways of healing, he completed training in quantum medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, magnetic resonance therapy, energy methods such as Reiki, and some consciousness-based technologies. “I used the most modern diagnostic and therapeutic devices, which exceed today›s conventional medicine by light years,” he says. But the technology that has impressed him most is PolarAid, which he and his colleagues developed based on Lakhovsky’s antenna and began marketing five years ago. While the small polarization disc has no electrical power supply, he says, it achieves “fantastic results” for myriad issues, including sleep problems, gynaecological issues, chronic fatigue, digestive issues, joint pain, hemorrhoids, hormonal imbalances and prostate issues. “I began to question my many years of education, training and effort when I realized that without a single day of training, anyone could use a PolarAid disc at home for self-healing,” Tomic says. For more information, visit PolarAidHealth.com. September 2020

health briefs

Consider Therapy to Reduce Inflammation

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In exploring the mind-body link that is particularly relevant during the current pandemic, an analysis of 56 randomized clinical studies found that cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and similar approaches reduced inflammation and enhanced immunity in subjects, reports JAMA Psychiatry. University of California, Davis, researchers reviewed studies that included 4,060 participants undergoing behavior therapy (which seeks to help patients understand and change problematic behaviors), cognitive therapy (which teaches patients how to change negative thoughts or mindset), CBT (that combines elements of both), bereavement or supportive therapy, psychoeducation and other therapies such as stress management. Those that received these psychosocial interventions experienced a 14.7 percent increase in positive immune outcomes such as lower viral load and an 18 percent decrease in negative outcomes, including proinflammatory cytokines, compared with those not receiving therapy. The immunity improvements were strongest among patients that received CBT or multiple interventions.

Boost Fun Nutrition with Microgreens

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Halfway in size between sprouts and full-grown plants, microgreens are bursting with nutrients, but have been mostly relegated to garnishes at upscale restaurants. Researchers at Colorado State University, exploring their acceptability, fed 99 people six separate types of microgreens: arugula, broccoli, bull’s blood beet, red cabbage, red garnet amaranth and tendril pea. The red-colored varieties—beet, cabbage and amaranth—received top marks for appearance, but broccoli, red cabbage and tendril pea scored the highest overall grades. The subjects found the greens were fun (“funfetti”), colorful and attractive. Microgreens, which can be grown quickly indoors year-round with minimal water, offer a possible solution to sustainably feeding the planet, the researchers pointed out. 16

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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Starchy Solution A Plant-Based Alternative to Plastic

Japanese manufacturer Kuraray has introduced a renewable and sustainable starch-based barrier film called Plantic. The plant-based packaging material can be recycled or composted to achieve a circular product cycle. Conventional packaging made from multiple layers of plastic can cause recovery issues, and perishable food imposes unique demands on wrapping. Plantic packaging washes away or decomposes after use. It includes compostable coffee pouches, as well as a barrier layer to package meat, seafood and poultry products with continuous protection against oxygen and other gases that spoil food. The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that one-third of all produced food is wasted in the supply chain.

Plastic Rain

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Airborne Particulates Blanket Wilderness Researchers estimate more than 1,000 tons of microplastics, equal to more than 123 million plastic water bottles, are deposited from the air into national parks and wilderness areas each year. Utah State University assistant professor Janice Brahney and her team used highresolution atmospheric deposition data to identify microplastics and other particulates collected over 14 months in 11 national parks and wilderness areas. In a report in Science, they identified the plastic and polymers composition to track its sources and movement, and found that most of the plastics deposited in both wet and dry samples were microfibers sourced from both clothing and industrial materials. Approximately 30 percent of the particles were brightly colored microbeads likely derived from industrial paints and coatings. Brahney says, “We confirmed through 32 different particle scans that roughly 4 percent of the atmospheric particles analyzed from these remote locations were synthetic polymers.” The same high resilience and longevity that makes plastics useful lead to progressive fragmentation instead of degradation in the environment. Clear and white particles were not included because they did not meet the criteria for visual counting, so estimates of plastic deposition were conservative.

Tasty Trap

Sea Turtles Attracted to Deadly Ocean Plastic

Loggerhead turtles may think they’re biting into a favorite food when they encounter some synthetics, a study of 15 turtles in the journal Current Biology posits. Ocean plastic is often covered with algae and other marine organisms (biofouled), making it smell delicious to them. At least 1,000 die every year because they swallow plastic or get tangled up in it. Exposed to different odors in the lab, the loggerheads responded to the smell of turtle food, distilled water, clean plastic and biofouled plastic. The team found that the turtles had similar responses to biofouled plastic as to their normal food. Kayla Goforth, a Ph.D. student in biology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill who worked on the study, says, “So they have to come up to breathe. And we know that they can detect airborne odors. So when they find that there’s an odor of interest in the air, they’ll spend an increased amount of time at the surface with their nostrils out of the water. And we found that the turtles spent more time with their nostrils out of the water when there was this biofouled plastic odor or a food odor.” davidtroeger/Unsplash.com

global briefs

September 2020

Vinegars are one of Bellebuono’s go-to methods to incorporate herbs into a diet, infusing fresh or dried herbs into red wine or apple cider vinegar for salad dressings and other uses. “Vinegar is great at extracting minerals from herbs and making them more bioavailable,” she says. Drying herbs does not diminish their medicinal properties, but rather concentrates their essence, as it removes excess water, according to Bellebuono. “Dried and powdered herbs are a great way to preserve the garden harvest and add herbs into everyday dishes. You can throw a teaspoon of turmeric, a wonderful antiinflammatory herb, in spaghetti sauce or oatmeal, and you won’t even notice it,” she says.

conscious eating

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Best Herbal Buddies

SPICE UP HEALTH Using Herbs for Flavor and Medicine

by April Thompson

erbs add lush flavor to all kinds of dishes, and they are culinary friends that bring the benefits of helping to restore and maintain health. “Food is medicine, and herbs bring out the medicinal properties of food,” says Kami McBride, of Sebastopol, California, author of The Herbal Kitchen: Bring Lasting Health to You and Your Family with 50 Easy-to-Find Common Herbs and Over 250 Recipes. “The spice rack is a relic from another time when we knew how to use herbs and spices to optimize health and to digest our food.” To get a medicinal dose of an herb, consider making teas, vinegar extracts or pestos, says Brittany Wood Nickerson, the Conway, Massachusetts, author of The Herbalist’s Kitchen: Delicious, Nourishing Food for Lifelong Health and Well-Being. “Parsley, for example, is a nutrient- and vitamin-rich herb. If you garnish with parsley, you won’t get a significant amount of vitamin C, as you would if you make a pesto from it.” Salads can also pack a healthy dose of herbs into a meal, says Martha’s Vineyard resident Holly Bellebuono, an herbalist and author of The Healing Kitchen: Cooking with Nourishing Herbs for Health, Wellness, and Vitality. “So many herbs, including violets, mints and red clover, can just be tossed fresh into a salad, offering both fiber and minerals.” 18

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While Mediterranean herbs like oregano and basil are often at the front of the spice rack, Nickerson also suggests lesser-used herbs such as sour sumac, anise-accented tarragon and versatile, yet often discarded orange peels, which can be added to soups along with fennel seed and bay leaves for a complex flavor. Thyme is another of Nickerson’s favorites, a hearty herb for fall dishes that’s also a powerful antifungal and aids with digestion, lung health and detoxification. While some may think of parsley as a garnish, “It offers incredible freshness and livens up almost anything,” says Nickerson. “I use it as a vegetable and make a salad of its leaves or add handfuls of it into a quiche. Parsley is loaded with vitamins and minerals, and has detoxification properties.” Adding it near the end of cooking maintains its vibrant flavor and color, she notes. McBride loves versatile herbs like mint and coriander that can be used in sweet and savory dishes with antimicrobial properties that help fight colds and flu. She also keeps salt shakers on the table filled with spices like cardamom, an antibacterial, anti-spasmotic and expectorant, to sprinkle onto beverages and dishes. Bellebuono also recommends infusing honey with herbs such as sage or oregano that support the immune system.

Herbal-Aided Digestion All herbs, whether leafy, green culinary herbs or spices like coriander and clove, are carminative, meaning they help digest food, McBride says. “Digestion can use up to 40 percent of your day’s energy, which is why you often get a nap attack after a big meal. Every meal needs a carminative, even if it’s just black pepper, which is one of the problems with most fast food.” Pungent and bitter herbs, in particular, support digestion and absorption of nutrients and make them more bioavailable, says Nickerson: “Activating the taste buds dedicated to sensing bitter stimulates the digestive system.” A salad of bitter greens, for example, can help prepare digestion of a heavier meal to come, whereas a post-meal aperitif can help with digesting the food afterward. “It absolutely adds up when you add small doses of herbs to your meals every day,” McBride advises. “Many Americans suffer from gastrointestinal inflammation from modern diets and lifestyles, and herbs can help reverse that. Your gut gets a little healing every day.” April Thompson is a Washington, D.C., freelance writer. Connect at AprilWrites.com.

The body is your temple. Keep it pure and clean for the soul to reside in.

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B.K.S Iyengar

September 2020

Some Herbal-Aided Delights of the fruit, just inside the membranes. Leave the sections whole or cut them into bite-size pieces. Toast the pumpkin seeds in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until they are lightly browned, have puffed up and begin to pop—4 to 7 minutes. Combine the oil, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, shallot, tarragon and salt in a bowl and whisk together. Stir in any grapefruit juice that may have puddled on the cutting board while sectioning the fruit. Pour the dressing over the spinach. If any dressing is left over, it will keep in the fridge for up to a week. Toss the spinach well, then add the grapefruit and pumpkin seeds and toss gently again to combine.

Spinach & Grapefruit Salad with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

Preheat the oven to 325° F. While the oven is heating, pull apart the chive blossoms, removing the central stem and plucking the tiny purple florets. Set the baguette in the hot oven and bake for 7 to 10 minutes, until the edges are crispy, but not browned.

Meanwhile, combine the feta in a bowl with the mint, minced chives and chive florets. Add enough of the oil to moisten then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Recipe and photo from Recipes from the Herbalist’s Kitchen by Brittany Wood Nickerson.

The floral notes of tarragon in the dressing and the juicy, sour grapefruit invigorate the senses and wake up the digestive processes. Yields: 4 to 6 servings

Mix well.

8 oz spinach (about 4 packed cups) 1 large or 2 medium-size grapefruits ½ cup pumpkin seeds Dressing ½ cup olive oil 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp white wine vinegar 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp finely minced shallot 1 tsp finely chopped tarragon Pinch of salt Tear the spinach into bite-size pieces, if necessary, and place in a large bowl. Cut the top and bottom off the grapefruit so that the flesh of the fruit is exposed so it sits flat on a cutting board. Cut the peel and pith from the fruit using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler. Set the grapefruit on one of its flat ends on a cutting board. The sections of the fruit will face up. Cut out the sections, slicing from the outside toward the center 20

Mint and Feta Bruschetta with Chive Blossoms Yields: 4 servings as an appetizer ½ cup fresh chive blossoms (can be substituted with other edible flowers or left out) 1 French baguette ½ lb feta cheese, crumbled, or a vegan alternative 1 cup chopped fresh mint ½ cup minced chives (can be substituted with scallions) 2-4 Tbsp olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper

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Remove the baguette from the oven and slice along the diagonal. Arrange on a platter with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the bruschetta mixture on each slice. Drizzle with a little more oil and serve. Note: For the bread to be crisp throughout rather than soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, slice it on the diagonal to start with, brush each piece with olive oil and bake on a baking sheet at 325° F for 5 to 7 minutes until crispy. Recipe and photos from Recipes from the Herbalist’s Kitchen by Brittany Wood Nickerson.

Eat Well and Be Well

Foodie Guide CAFES BREAD ALONE BAKERY

45 Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 845.876.3108 BreadAlone.com/Rhinebeck-cafe

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

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

NELLA’S NUTRI-BAR

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609 Route 6, Mahopac NY 845.628.1872 thefreighthousecafe.com

COFFEE COFFEE LABS ROASTERS

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

FARMERS’ MARKETS GOSSETT’S FARM MARKET

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

HUDSON VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

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

with

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

THREE FEATHERS FARM

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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 Yorktown Heights 12 Triangle Center Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 914.352.6214 GreensNaturalFoods.com

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

Kontoulis Family Groves’ Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil

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September 2020

healing ways

Natural Antivirals

Help in Staying Strong and Healthy

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by Ronica O’Hara

845-593-0065 22

n these sobering times, we must use every weapon in our arsenal against invasive viruses, including often-overlooked natural remedies with antiviral properties. As is also the case with pharmaceutical agents, natural approaches have not been shown to stop an aggressive virus in its tracks, but they may ameliorate symptoms. “Nutrition and supplementation are unlikely to prevent an infection, but they may help prevent the infection from becoming symptomatic or severe,” explains Leo Galland, M.D., a global leader in functional medicine and author of Power Healing: Use the New Integrated Medicine to Heal Yourself. Eating healthy foods, sleeping seven to nine hours a night and exercising at least 150 minutes a week are also key in fortifying our natural defenses against viruses. Steps still necessary for COVID-19 protection include hand-washing, mask-wearing, social distancing and sterilizing objects and surfaces.

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Baseline Protectors Scientists report that some vitamin and mineral deficiencies appear to be linked to poor COVID-19 outcomes, while adequate levels help combat other viruses. ConsumerLab.com, which provides comprehensive research overviews and information on nutritional products, lists these natural supplements as potential aids against COVID-19, although at this early stage, none have been proven to work: Vitamin D: According to Galland, vitamin D “stimulates your immune system to produce factors called defensins and cathelicidins that kill viruses.” People with levels below 30 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) were 45 percent more likely to test positive for the coronavirus and 95 percent more likely to be hospitalized, Israeli researchers found. Getting three 30-minute sessions of sun exposure a week and eating D-fortified foods raise levels, and supplementing with up to 2,000 international units daily is generally considered safe.

Zinc: “Zinc throws a wrench in the viral replication machine and helps fight infections by boosting the production of antibodies,” says Nicole DeMasi, an integrative dietitian nutritionist in Los Angeles. Zinc lozenges may ward off the coronavirus in the upper respiratory tract. The recommended dosage is 15 to 30 milligrams (mg) a day for up to two weeks. Vitamin C: A cup of orange juice, tomato juice or a kiwi supplies most of the minimum recommended intake of vitamin C, a vital supplement for white blood cells that fight viral infections. Supplementing with 1,000 mg daily is also safe. Intravenous megadoses are being studied for critically ill COVID-19 patients, but no evidence exists so far that higher levels prevent infections, reports ConsumerLab.com. Potassium: A critical antiviral mineral and electrolyte, low levels of potassium were found in 61 percent of 175 Chinese patients hospitalized with COVID-19, making them more prone to heart damage, reports the Journal of the American Medical Association. Foods that boost levels include potatoes, squash, lentils, spinach, avocados, bananas and raisins.

Supplemental Supporters When choosing supplements proven to be effective, “Much of what we know and can apply is based on our previous research on viruses of the past,” says Monisha Bhanote, M.D., an integrative physician in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Here are some good choices.

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Melatonin: Known best as the hormone that regulates sleep, melatonin also supports antiviral immunity and helps control inflammation in viral infections. A study of 11,672 people tested for COVID-19 found that those taking supplemental melatonin were less likely to test positive, and a clinical study is underway to see if 2 mg a day helps protect healthcare workers. Typical dosages range from 0.3 to 3 mg. Licorice Root Extract: This herb contains a substance called glycyrrhizin that makes it hard for a virus to attach to and invade a cell and hinders its ability to replicate, slowing the spread from one cell to another. Chinese doctors used it with other traditional herbs to combat COVID-19, and studies have shown it effective against an earlier coronavirus, as well as against HIV, herpes, viral hepatitis and respiratory infections. For dosage, follow package directions. People with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, kidney disease or low potassium levels are advised against its use.

Astragalus: Known as huang qi, astragalus “is one of the most powerful herbs used in Chinese medicine for people with weakened immune systems,” says Tsao-Lin Moy, a New York City acupuncturist and herbalist. It’s best taken as a hot or cold tea using tea bags or the root itself. Andrographis: This herb has long been used for colds and throat infections in China and India, and may prevent flu viruses from binding to cells. In a Swedish study, flu patients that took an andrographis extract along with Siberian ginseng recovered more quickly with fewer complications than those given a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved flu medication. Because of its potency, it’s best to consult a health practitioner to avoid interactions. The recommended dosage is 400 mg twice a day.

Fightin’ Foods To lower the inflammation linked to poor viral outcomes, integrative physician Monisha Bhanote, M.D., recommends a predominantly whole foods diet with at least five to seven servings of vegetables and two to three servings of fruit a day. Quercetin-rich foods, such as apples, onions, broccoli, raspberries, parsley and celery are especially important, she says, because the bioflavonoid enhances zinc’s antiviral actions: “It functions as a zinc ionophore, chelating zinc and transporting it into the cell cytoplasm.” Quercetin can also be taken as a supplement in doses ranging between 500 and 1,000 mg daily. Garlic has potent antiviral and antibacterial properties, and can be cooked into food, eaten raw in salads and dressings or obtained from capsules of allicin, the active component. Green tea has epigallocatechin gallate, a compound with “a wide range of antiviral activity, especially in the early stages of infection, by preventing viral attachment and entry into the cell,” says Bhanote. Aim for three to five cups a day. Ronica O’Hara is a Denver-based health writer. Connect at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

Learn More Coronavirus Handbook by Leo Galland, M.D.: A comprehensive look from an integrative physician at coronavirus mechanisms, nutritional strategies and supplements. DrGalland.com/coronavirus-protection-protocol Coronavirus Information Center: Up-to-date information on natural remedies and nutritional supplements. ConsumerLab.com/coronavirus

September 2020

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Emotional Well-Being in the Pandemic Age Self-Care Strategies for Tough Times

s the pandemic ravages our country, we are engulfed by a sea of challenging emotions, including fear, loss, anger, disappointment and grief. Compounding the suffering, past emotional traumas and pent-up desires are surfacing and crying for attention. One way to navigate these treacherous waters is by first enveloping ourselves in self-compassion. Next, we can gather the courage to face our fears and experience unpleasant feelings in order to heal them and let them go. Then, we search for and internalize positive emotional states to rewire our brains for positivity. This noble voyage promises immense rewards along the way. 24

by Sandra Yeyati

The Cocoon of Self-Compassion

Some of us chase self-esteem like the Holy Grail, yet it eludes us when we need it most. Faced with a failing grade or cruel insult, our self-worth withers. We can’t understand why we lost it or how to get it back. When we attach our self-worth to achievements or comparisons with other people, self-esteem becomes unstable and unreliable. Enter self-compassion, the life-changing perspective of showing kindness to ourselves in any and all situations—a supportive best friend that lives within us and can be accessed any time, every day. A pioneer and

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expert in this topic, Kristin Neff believes that self-compassion has three components: a decision to be kind to ourselves, a mindful awareness when we are in pain so that we can seek some relief and a sense of common humanity or connectedness. We already know how to be compassionate, says Neff, an associate professor of educational psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and co-author of The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook. “It’s linked to the parasympathetic nervous system, which is a natural part of our organism. We’re tapping into this way of feeling safe, which is through care, bonding and connectedness.” Encouraging our friends when they’re

Finding Confidence Through Unpleasant Feelings

Nobody likes to feel sad or embarrassed. We’d rather have an ice cream cone or turn on the TV. But for Dr. Joan Rosenberg, a prominent psychologist and speaker, uncomfortable feelings present an invaluable opportunity for people to transform into confident individuals that relate to the world around them with authenticity and resilience. In her book 90 Seconds to a Life You Love, Rosenberg offers a formula—one choice, eight feelings, 90 seconds—to experience and move through eight of the most common unpleasant feelings: sadness, shame, helplessness, anger, embarrassment, disappointment, frustration and vulnerability. “The choice is to stay aware of and in

touch with as much of your moment-tomoment experience as possible and not get lost in avoidance,” she explains, adding that there are more than 30 behaviors, thoughts and emotions that we employ as distractions, including substance abuse, social media, pornography, exercise, obsessive thoughts about body image, humor and denial. “Be aware of what you’re aware of,” she advises. “If we know that we don’t like feelings, and we know we’ve been engaged in using ways to distract ourselves, then our challenge is to be more awake and aware of those times we do it, and as soon as we start to do the thing and become aware, that’s when we make the decision to stop and ask, ‘What’s really going on?’” Discoveries in neuroscience suggest that most of us come to know what we’re feeling emotionally through bodily sensations. We might feel heat in the neck and face when embarrassed or a sinking feeling in the chest when disappointed. As feelings get triggered in the body, a rush of biochemicals in the bloodstream activate these sensations and are flushed out of the bloodstream in roughly 90 seconds. “Most people have the impression that feelings linger a whole lot longer and that they’re going to be overwhelmed by it and never come out of it if they start. But when they understand that what they’re trying to avoid are uncomfortable bodily sensations that help you know what you’re feeling emotionally, and that these are short-lived, most people will start to lean into them, and once they do, their life changes,” Rosenberg says.

To move through bodily sensations, which may come in multiple waves, take deep, slow breaths. Try not to tighten up or clench the jaw and swallow. Notice the location and nature of the bodily sensations to help identify which of the eight unpleasant feelings it might be, and be curious as to what might have triggered it. All of this will take a few moments. With practice, identification will become faster, easier and more accurate. “If I have more time, then I can think about whether this is connected to anything else. Is it just one thing that triggered it, or is it like something else that’s happened before?” Rosenberg says. This level of awareness leads to a calming effect, clearer

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feeling down or hugging our moms in the morning is hardwired into us. When we decide to be kind to ourselves, it’s easy to think of what we would say: “I’m sorry you failed that test. You’ll do better next time. How can I help you?” To lend perspective, add a statement about our common humanity, counsels Neff. “This is hard for everybody. You’re not alone.” We must be aware of our pain before we can comfort it, and many of us try to suppress or resist pain, choosing to numb it with distractions like alcohol addiction or compulsive shopping. Others may get lost in the storyline of what’s happening and succumb to suffering with no apparent way to obtain relief. Self-pity or self-criticism may creep in. Mindful awareness is the antidote to these emotional extremes, because it helps us become aware that we are experiencing pain and to stay with that pain long enough to make a conscious decision to take care of ourselves. “One easy thing is physical touch,” says Neff. “The first few years of life you have no words, so the body is programmed to respond to touch as a signal of care. Put your hand on your heart or your stomach, or hold your hand. This changes your physiology, activates your parasympathetic nervous system, helps you calm down and helps you feel physically supported. Sometimes, that’s an entryway for people.”

Making Courage a Habit In her book The Courage Habit, life coach Kate Swoboda presents a four-part method for people to face their fears, release the past and live their most courageous life. Access the body. Practice any body-centric activity like mindful meditation, exercise or dancing every single day to release stress and anxiety, become centered and more present, and clear the mind. Listen without attachment. When your self-critic offers a warning or criticism, hear the words, understanding that this is fear trying to protect you and deciding that it’s misguided and not true. Reframe limiting stories or beliefs. Amend your internalized self-critic’s messages to be more respectful and supportive. If it says, “You’re stupid to try that,” revise it to, “I’m smart because I’m willing to try.” Create community. Reach out to likeminded individuals that are supportive of the changes you are trying to make. September 2020

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Building Up Our Happiness Quotient These exercises are recommended by psychologist Rick Hanson: Slow down, breathe and see the big picture. This simple practice brings us into the present moment, reduces the stress activation in the body, disengages us from verbal chatter and negative reactivity, and buys us time to see more clearly. Take three breaths, making the exhalation longer than the inhalation. Five-Minute Challenge Take in the good. It could be a flower blooming, birds singing or a nice exchange with another person. Slow down, take a few breaths and let it sink in for a minute or two. Focus on something to cultivate. Perhaps it’s patience or gratitude. Look for opportunities to have an experience of this quality and internalize it for another minute. Marinate in pleasant feelings. Cultivate a sense of calm, contentment or warmheartedness for a couple of minutes. 26

thinking, improved decision making and, perhaps most importantly, an ability to speak authentically. “If we don’t handle the eight feelings, we don’t feel capable in the world,” she says. The ability to speak adds to that empowerment. “From asking someone to stop a behavior so that you feel safer to telling someone you love them, asking your boss for a raise or letting people know about yourself and your work to garner opportunities and desired experiences—it cuts across every aspect of our lives and is absolutely crucial to our sense of well-being.”

Rewiring the Brain for Positivity

Discoveries in neuroplasticity have revealed that the brain changes throughout life well into adulthood. It’s designed to learn not just ideas and information, but skills, attitudes, feelings and moods. Rick Hanson, a clinical psychologist and author of several books, including Hardwiring Happiness and Resilient, contends that we can develop greater happiness, just like we can develop greater depression. “There’s a lot of research that shows that through deliberate little practices spread out through the day or sometimes more formal practices like psychotherapy or meditation, we can actually produce

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physical changes in the brain that are now measurable with things like MRIs,” he remarks. Hardwiring happiness is easy, pleasurable and doesn’t take a lot of time. “If you take care of the minutes, the years will take care of themselves,” says Hanson. “Little steps gradually move us forward a breath at a time, a minute at a time, a synapse at a time. Bit by bit, we grow the good inside while gradually releasing the bad.” “Our power to positively influence who we are in small, genuine ways every day is really important to compensate for the brain’s negativity bias, which makes it like Velcro for bad experiences, but Teflon for good ones,” he says. “We evolved a negativity bias over the 600-million-year evolution of the nervous system. Learning from negative experiences and mistakes was a critical survival skill, so we have a brain that is designed to scan for bad news, overreact to it and fast-track it into memory. It’s not our fault, but it is our responsibility to deal with it by first, feeling the negative without reinforcing it and second, focusing on the positive and taking it in. Gradually, you can give yourself a brain that’s like Velcro for the good and Teflon for the bad.” Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

September 2020

LOCAL YOGA NEWS & RESOURCES

Yoga in the Adirondacks Revamps Signature Retreat for September

hodella Hughes, owner/ instructor at Yoga in the Adirondacks, says the studio’s seasonal signature retreat, Autumn Transformation, has been redesigned for safety reasons as an event for one group of up to eight people who register together. YitA’s farmhouse at the Divine Acres, in Bakers Mills, has four bedrooms, each with double occupancy. Retreat dates are September 25-27. Rhodella Hughes at “This year, 2020, with Yoga in the Adirondacks clear vision, we’re calling our retreat Welcome Home,” Hughes says. “It will be a fun-filled, awakening weekend journey back to yourself—a restorative but high-vibrational tap back to our subtle body, with yoga, meditation, massage, essential oils, journaling, hiking, music, farm-to-table meals, wisdom fire circles, gardening and journaling. It will give participants the opportunity to restore, let go of stuff and refuel with love.” Participants will meet Bryan Totten, the newest addition to the YitA team. “Bryan is a licensed massage therapist shining his healing energy with our divine light,” Hughes says. They will also get to meet Autumn, YitA’s first baby miniature donkey, expected to arrive September 18. Ducks, chickens and dogs also live on the farm. Cost: $7,200 ($900 per person), all inclusive, for a group of eight registering together (first come, first served). The cost represents 18 percent off the regular cost of $8,800 for eight people. Location: Yoga in the Adirondacks (YitA) at the Divine Acres, 2 Coulter Rd., Bakers Mills, NY. For more info, call 518.251.3015 or 518.251.5832, email rhodella@yogaintheadirondacks.com or visit YogaInTheAdirondacks.com. See ad, page 33. 28

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

YTA Announces Workshop Lineup

he Yoga Teachers Association of the Hudson Valley (YTA) will kick off its 2020–21 season on September 12 with a workshop led by Cyndi Lee, one of the most influential yoga teachers in the United States. Making Your Class a Refuge, Not an Escape will be held via Zoom, as will YTA workshop with Anneke Lucas, all YTA workshops until founder of Liberation Prison Yoga further notice, says the organization’s president, Audrey Brooks. “While we miss coming together with our community in person, the online platform enables more people to join us since it doesn’t matter whether they’re in Westchester, Rockland or Florida,” she says. “We’re also able to widen our pool of instructors, which allowed us to add an extra workshop to our 2020–21 season.” The newly added workshop, Yoga for Everybody, will be held in January. Teacher Canada–based Dianne Bondy will discuss how to make yoga equitable and accessible for all kinds of bodies, and cover the roles of body image, race, diversity, wellness and diet culture in yoga. Other offerings in the season will be led by Jillian Pransky, Hunt Parr and Ellen Saltonstall, among others, and cover topics such as yoga for osteoarthritis, mudras and the five elements in yoga. YTA is an educational nonprofit run by volunteers. Membership is open to studio owners, yoga teachers and serious students of any tradition or style of yoga. Workshops are typically held on the second Saturday of the month, 1:30-4:30 pm, via Zoom until further notice. Continuing education credits are available for most workshops. Cost: $45 for members, $65 for nonmembers in advance. For more information, email ytacommunications@gmail.com or visit ytaYoga.com See ad, back cover.

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Golden Prana Adds Outdoor Classes and Events for Fall

olden Prana yoga studio and Majestic Hudson Lifestyle Boutique, in Katonah, have done some logistical realignment in the age of Covid-19. But Hari Sangat Kaur (Carrie Kane), co-owner of Golden Prana, says the adjoining businesses have never strayed from their healing mission. “The Great AwakHari Sangat Kaur & Jennifer Llewellyn ening took us all by surprise,” she says. “Golden Prana and Majestic Hudson Lifestyle have been doing what we do best in the cute little hamlet of Katonah—riding the waves with fortitude, perusing our inner map and staying grounded within our practice.” Golden Prana put their entire class schedule online, offering Kundalini, Restorative, Vinyasa, Yoga Nidra and Meditation classes via Zoom, and Majestic Hudson introduced Bespoke Rituals and Crafting Workshops. The boutique carries a highly curated selection of crystals and spiritual gifts. The businesses have also made the best of their unique healing spaces, which include the only crystal healing room and meditative sanctuary in Westchester County, as well as an outdoor courtyard. “We have opened up our hearts into our courtyard to offer safe and spacious classes,” Kane says. “Our bimonthly Gong Bath with Astrology and Yoga is now back—outside, limited to eight people, and weather permitting. We did our first one in August and it was a great success. We plan on doing more outdoor classes and workshops into the fall, outside or inside according to state health guidelines.” She’s been offering Aquarian Sadhana in her backyard on select Saturdays from 5:30 to 8 a.m. “It’s such a lovely experience to meditate in the dawn outside,” she says. Golden Prana also offers private or semi-private Gong Massage in the studio, by appointment only, with a special discount in September. Kane, who has been a massage therapist for 37 years, ends each session by playing sacred gongs “to send you off in a blissful experience.” Medium Stacey Decea will return to Golden Prana in October. The Majestic Hudson Boutique is open from noon to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and by appointment. Owner Jennifer Llewellyn offers Intuitive Crystal Healing Readings and Sage Advice by appointment. “Our healing sanctuary is all about community,” Kane says. “We’re here to keep the vibrations high, positive, supportive and uplifting.” Location: Golden Prana and The Majestic Hudson Boutique, 223 Katonah Ave., Katonah NY. For more info, call 914.984.3408, email info@goldenprana@gmail.com, or visit GoldenPrana.yoga and MajesticHudson.com. See ad this page. September 2020

OCTOBER

YogaShine Continues Virtually with Personalized Instruction

italah Simon, owner of YogaShine, is teaching online Kripalu-based classes that she tailors for every student, whether they are 3 or 103. “I pay detailed attention to every person and give helpful comments for improved alignment and enhanced practice,” she says. Her all-ages approach is especially relevant now that YogaShine is offering virtual classes for homeschool families and pods, she says. “I’ve specialized in working with children and adults with special needs like autism and hyperactivity for 30 years, and I can continue this work online with the presence of Vitalah Simon a caregiver participating in the class.” The studio also offers gentle chair yoga classes for seniors and others with physical limitations or in recovery from injuries or surgery, and integrates prenatal yoga guidance into its classes as needed. Private sessions are available as well, and Simon will create new classes for two or more people to suit their schedules. Calling yoga “one of the most steadying influences in my life,” Simon notes that yoga practice can have helpful emotional and spiritual benefits in stressful times like these. “We pierce the virtual veil through the community we create by practicing together,” she says. “For now I believe it is healthiest and safest to continue holding sessions online. Breathing fully, deeply and sometimes vigorously are such an essential part of yoga practice—I would not want to curtail that part of our practice.” For more info, call 914.769.8745, email yogashine@verizon.net or visit YogaShine.com.

Yoga at The Market Opens in Verplanck

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ince June, Let It Shine Inc., which supports local women in need through gifts and small grants, has been using a pandemicabandoned ball field in Verplanck to operate The Market at Mt. Carmel. Every Sunday, the market creates opportunities for growers, makers and yogis—now including instructors from PranaMoon Yoga, in Peekskill, who lead Yoga at the Market Sundays at 10 a.m. This donation-based yoga class will be held weekly, rain or shine, through November 1, and everyone is welcome, says Kacey Morabito Grean, owner of Let It Shine. The Market at Mt. Carmel “This is an all-levels class, no registration necessary,” she says. “Yoga is more vital than ever, and more and more people are finding ways to de-stress and bring in prana. If it rains, we can go indoors and keep the four sets of double doors wide open to overlook The Market and keep fresh air flowing.” In fair weather, the class is held under a big pine tree, with social distancing. “We take every precaution to follow health recommendations, and we have an indoor facility where everyone can wash their hands—plus there are sanitizers on each table,” Grean says. “We are delighted to be able to offer an in-person class outdoors. You can wear your mask during class or keep your distance.” Cost: Suggested $10 donation. Location: Mt. Carmel Field, 247 8th St., Verplanck, NY. For more info, call 914.323.8343 or visit GatheringLove.org.

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Elevate Yoga Creates Options for Yogis

espite the challenges of current restrictions, Cara Sax, owner of Elevate Yoga Studios, is making yoga more broadly available by offering virtual yoga and meditation classes, in-person private or small-group classes in the Westchester area, and a virtual 200-hour yoga teacher training in November with renowned teacher Lila Lolling. Sax says offering classes online at this time has allowed her to keep her local community connected, as well as Cara Sax & Lila Lolling reach out to students outside the area in a more personal way. “There is a big difference [for students] between practicing an asana class by watching a pre-taped video and actually being a student in a live virtual class with a teacher who can see them as they practice,” she says. “You can’t adjust people with your hands, so the adjusting is done with your words.” Elevate Yoga Studio’s location in Cortlandt Manor has permanently closed, but Sax says she’s excited to reopen in a new space when conditions are safe. Her 200-hour yoga teacher training launches online in November on weekends and Wednesdays. Other weekly classes include her Virtual Flow on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays. Vipassana guided meditation with certified teacher McKenzie Kear is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Elevate’s in-person All Level Flow class, held on Fridays in Briarcliff, requires advance registration.

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For more info, email CaraSaxHealth@aol.com or visit ElevateYogaStudios.com. See ad, page 29.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

Putnam Yoga Proves Flexible in Reopening

ovid-19 has proven that yogis really are flexible: They’ll do what they need to do to serve their students. With New York State relaxing its guidelines for reopening yoga studios, teachers and studio owners like Christine Dodge, of Putnam Yoga, are putting plans in place to move to a new system. “We remain completely committed to our Putnam Yoga community, and we have instituted online classes via Zoom during the pandemic,” Dodge says. “Teaching yoga online has been challenging, because we are all missing the in-person experience, but we’re all finding a way to make it work. I’ve already prepared my studio to reopen safety and in accordance with state and health department official guidelines.” Putnam Yoga currently offers a wide variety of Zoom classes, including Level ½, Yin, Gentle Hatha and Restorative Yoga, as well as a weekly Barre class. Once the studio is allowed to reopen, it will offer more in-person classes while still maintaining the safety protocols. “So many people have been supportive of me and the studio, and we all look forward to coming back together again soon,” Dodge says. “I feel both anxious and excited about what yoga studios will look like in the future.” A certified YogaFit instructor and personal trainer, Dodge designed Putnam Yoga to provide a unique experience that combines innovative and traditional yoga styles targeting specific muscle groups to increase agility and quiet the mind. Location: Putnam Yoga, 30 Tomahawk St., Baldwin Place, NY. For more info, call 845.494.8118 or visit PutnamYoga.com.

Joy Matalon LMT, CST 914.519.8138 Joymatalon.com Ossining & Garrison

MASSAGE THERAPY MOUNT KISCO Lisanne Elkins, MA, LMT, RM Balance Bodywork Therapeutic Massage & Reiki. 914.319.4375 Balancebodywork.biz

YONKERS Donna Costa, LMT 914.907.4485 coyoteqn@gmail.com dcostamassage.amtamembers.com Facebook.com/Donna.Costa.LMT

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845-593-0065 WakeUpNaturally.com September 2020

The Future of Yoga in Hudson Valley Teachers and studios rethink what it means to ‘do yoga’

WAYHOME studio/shutterstock.com

by Sarah Matteo

s they continue to navigate a changing landscape, yoga studios and teachers are finding new ways to connect with students and discovering opportunities to rethink what it means to “do yoga.” It’s safe to say that some of the changes they’ve made will be here long after Covid-19 goes away. At press time, New York State had announced that yoga studios would be allowed to open in September. Studio owners’ plans going forward, like the adjustments they’ve already made, vary widely throughout and beyond Hudson Valley.

New York State has announced that yoga studios will be allowed to open in September. Make Room or Zoom Many studios have decided to wait to reopen until next year, if they return to in-person classes at all. David Hollander, studio owner and director of teacher training at the Yoga Society of New York, recently made the decision to close his

CALENDAR Check out the latest yoga classes on pages 42-45. 32

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

David Hollander teaching class WakeUpNaturally.com

private studio, having determined that the only way to continue was digitally. “We’re in this transition for the long haul,” he says. “Getting back to normal goes beyond a vaccine, because people are going to need to get comfortable being in a packed space again, and that’s going to take time.” Studios that are continuing with inperson classes are dealing with standard constraints: Classes capped at reduced capacity, hands-on adjustments discouraged, props less likely to be provided. They’ve also gotten creative to accommodate for social-distancing regulations, moving classes outdoors to a public space or even to a studio member’s backyard. While Hollander says he misses assisting students in a crowded class, he’s enjoying forging a sense of intimacy in this new medium. “There’s something very powerful about broadcasting from our homes with our dogs and cats and kids running around in the background,” he says. “We’re not putting on a public face.”

Supporting Community It’s safe to say yoga has been initiated into a process of change, and a potentially new age altogether. The focus for many teachers in this challenging time is to strengthen the yoga community and keep it vibrant and accessible. “I think it’s going to change how we think about things a little bit and gives us the opportunity to widen our audience and presenters,” Callender says. “I just did a three-day workshop with one teacher from Los Angeles and another from Boston, and students attended from all over the country.” Hollander shares this prediction. “There’s a chance for geography to not be an issue moving forward,” he says, noting that some of his former students who had moved away are now taking his classes online. Yoga’s arguably growing accessibility in this time of restriction isn’t just benefiting out-of-towners. Working parents who don’t have time for an in-person class might be able to squeeze in Zoom session. And people the pandemic has rendered unemployed can often find an online class at a reduced rate. Some yoga teachers, like Callender,

Jim Polakis-shutterstock/shutterstock.com

Hosting classes online has also allowed some teachers to establish their own video library of live-streamed content. “When this all started, I built my own website and made my own YouTube channel, so now I have a ton of free content,” says Gina Callender, meditation teacher and board member of Hudson Valley’s Yoga Teachers Association. “You can do a five-minute meditation or an hour-long yoga class, and it’s free.” Like Hollander, Callender is confident that some of the changes studios are making aren’t temporary—and sometimes that’s for the better, she says. “Some sort of virtual presence is going to stay, because [teachers] have taken that time and effort to develop an online audience,” she says. “So why not keep cultivating it?” Both predict a hybrid model because the strong need for human connection will always favor shared physical space.

are offering a “pay what you can” structure in response to the negative impact the coronavirus has had on the public’s general spending power. “Yoga should not be a luxury,” she says. “It’s a necessity for our health and well-being.”

Go with the Flow All things considered, teachers and studio owners who use this time to consider the changing needs of practitioners, and work to evolve with them, may have an advantage moving forward. Lila Lolling, international yoga philosophy teacher, climate activist and author based in and beyond Hudson Valley, is on the frontier of this movement. “Many owners I know and consult with have expressed an interest in restructuring the yoga studio business model

to make it more viable, sustainable and resilient,” she says. “Right now we are at a collective precipice of change, whether or not we are aware of it, and whether or not we are ready for it.” From a holistic stance, yoga is a powerful lens through which people can more peacefully experience what is happening around and within them. At their roots, all yoga traditions remind us to keep opening, to accept and invite change and to follow the current of life, no matter how uncertain. COVID-19, while no doubt harrowing, invites the ever-evolving yoga community to navigate this challenging time with grace, hope and uncommon creativity. Sarah Matteo is a spiritual counselor, educator and freelance writer for various health and wellness publications. Contact her at info@spiritofateacher.com

September 2020

natural awakenings

NETWORK Yoga Teachers Association Workshops 2nd Sat. 1:30 pm Via Zoom until further notice ytacommunications@gmail.com ytayoga.com

YOGA INSTRUCTOR YOGA FORAGER Online Classes Essential Yoga Wear Info@yogaforager.com Instagram @yogaforager Yogaforager.com

YOGA STUDIOS BEACON

NEW

Beacon Yoga Center Integral Wellness Resources 464 Main St., Beacon NY 347.489.8406 BeaconYogaCenter.org

BEDFORD HILLS Katonah Yoga 39 Main Street 914.241.2661; katonahyoga.com

Cara Sax of Elevate Yoga

BALANCE FITNESS

PILATES STUDIOS

YOGA ASSOCIATIONS

StepWISEnow Strength.Flexibility.Balance 325 S. Highland Ave., Ste. 109 Briarcliff Manor/ Ossining 914.292.0602; Stepwisenow.com

MOUNT KISCO

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

Elite Performance PT Of Westchester, PC 175 E. Main St. Suite 204 ElitePTandPilates.com 917.476.2164

TAI CHI StepWISEnow Strength.Flexibility.Balance 325 S. Highland Ave., Ste. 109 Briarcliff Manor/ Ossining 914.292.0602; Stepwisenow.com

Shannon Murphy, Beacon Yoga Center

Find yoga classes on pages 42-45. 34

TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA Crossover Yoga Project 420 S. Riverside Ave Box #223 914.319.4010 crossoveryogaproject.org

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BRIARCLIFF OudiYoga 325 S. Highland Ave Suite 109 Ossining/Briarcliff. All levels 914.236.9208; oudiyoga.com

Stephanie Scavelli, Yoga Forager

Todd Norian, founder of Ashaya Yoga, at a YTA workshop

Gong Bath in the courtyard at Golden Prana CORTLANDT MANOR

KATONAH

Elevate Yoga Studio Classes Now Online carasaxhealth@aol.com elevateyogastudios.com

Golden Prana Yoga 223 Katonah Avenue 914.984.3408 goldenprana.yoga

CROSS RIVER

MAHOPAC

O2 Living Sanctuary 792 Rt. 35 O2 Living Village 914.763.6320; drinklivingjuice.com

Liberation Yoga & Wellness Center 862 Route 6 845.803.8389; liberationny.com

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

POUGHKEEPSIE

YOGA RETREATS

Hudson River Yoga Beginner - Experienced 696 Dutchess Tpk, (near Adams) 845.204.9111 hudsonriveryoga.com

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

Putnam Yoga 30 Tomahawk Street Baldwin Place 845.494.8118 PutnamYoga.com

Cara Sax of Elevate Yoga

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

YOGA TEACHER TRAINING Westchester Yoga Arts RYT200/RYT500/ Kids Yoga TT 888.760.4943; New Rochelle westchesteryogaarts. perfectmind.com

VALHALLA YogaShine Kripalu/Meditate/Yoga Therapy 7-11 Legion Drive, 914.769.8745 yogashine.com

Darrell and Edit Babboni. Zen Garden Health Coaching & Yoga

To list your studio on this page, please call 845-593-0065 September 2020 35 35 September 2020

says Ramat, who underscores the importance of listening to the body. “I learned the hard way 17 years ago when I first became a teacher. I am gentle with myself if I am unable to do a pose and embrace the modification. I go deeper in my poses now than when I was younger.”

fit body

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Freedom Through Support

Yoga for Every Body Adaptive Ways Ease Pain and Immobility

by Marlaina Donato

aming chronic pain, restoring energy reserves, improving heart health and relieving symptoms of depression and anxiety are only a few of the science-backed perks of spending time on a yoga mat. However, misconceptions about this ancient practice can make yoga seem intimidating for individuals that could benefit the most from it. Adaptive yoga, designed for people challenged by injury, chronic pain, autoimmune disease or debilitating conditions like multiple sclerosis, can foster perhaps unexpected gains through the use of props, chairs, wall space and even countertops. From wheelchair-bound veterans to seniors with compromised balance, adaptive yoga offers new horizons for achieving wellbeing. Yoga’s gentle influence goes beyond physical benefits. A 2017 British study published in the Journal of Pain Research found people with spinal cord injuries that took sitting yoga classes twice a week for six weeks were less depressed, more self36

compassionate and more mindfully in the moment than those in a control group.

Empowerment, Not Perfection “Yoga is for any body, no matter the size, shape or color. It’s not about designer clothing, athletic ability, talents or perfection in the pose. Adaptive yoga is a movement to change this misconception and mitigate the anxiety to try yoga,” says Mindy Eisenberg, a Detroit-area certified yoga therapist and author of Adaptive Yoga Moves Any Body: Created for Individuals with MS and Neuromuscular Condition and the accompanying Adaptive Yoga Cards. For Eisenberg, the focus is about the internal experience, healing and most of all, “the sense of joy that comes from a regular practice.” Ora Ramat, owner of the Wagging Tail Yoga Studio, in Bethel, New York, witnesses remarkable, everyday mastery in her students through adapted poses. “Many of my students are 40 to 95 years young, and the range of modification I do with them is endless,”

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“Our students have a wide range of health conditions including spina bifida, arthritis, MS, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, fibromyalgia, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, paraplegia, epiphyseal dysplasia, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, chronic back pain and more,” says Miranda McCarthy, CEO of Wavelength VR (WavelengthVR.com), a healthcare company that produces a library of sciencesupported content for pain management without medication. The London-based creator of Adaptive Yoga LIVE, which offers seated online classes, knows firsthand how yoga can change lives. “Until I found adaptive yoga, I felt like I was constantly at war with my body,” she says. Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 2 and the youngest recipient of bilateral hip replacement surgery in the U.S., McCarthy thought she knew her body inside and out. After 40 surgeries and decades of rehabilitation and medication, she went through a radical shift in perspective. “When I discovered adaptive yoga, I soon realized my relationship with my body had only just begun.” Eisenberg highlights the internal process that adaptive yoga can catalyze: “The energy and sensation that yoga students feel on the inside is much more important than what the pose looks like on the outside.” Items such as chairs, blocks, straps, blankets and bolsters are used to make traditional postures more accessible to those with physical challenges and to ensure safety. “Using props is not a sign of weakness or inferiority. We even use ambulatory devices such as a cane as a prop. Those who require assistive devices cease to see them as a hindrance. In fact, they become an accessory,” says Eisenberg. For McCarthy, the biggest takeaway is simple, yet profound self-acceptance. “I no longer judge myself or compare myself to

able-bodied people. I gained a newfound love for my body and a love for myself.” Eisenberg affirms, “It’s exciting to realize that our bodies are so much more capable than we thought, and we learn that we are not defined by our individual disease or limitations. As my teacher Jon Kabat-Zinn says, ‘As long as you are breathing, there is more right with you than wrong.’” Marlaina Donato is an author and composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

Online Yoga Resources Free adaptive yoga classes online from Miranda McCarthy. AdaptiveYogaLive.com YogaJP, YouTube chair yoga classes for people in wheelchairs. Tinyurl.com/WheelchairYogaClasses

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Yoga and MS, book from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. omsyoga.org

Adaptive Yoga Benefits from Miranda McCarthy n Increased strength, balance and flexibility—both mental and physical n Discovery of a subtle level of mind-body sensation not impeded by disability n Improvements in the quality of breathing n A sense of lightness and freedom within the body n An increased ability to manage stress n A deepened sense of wholeness and connection with others September 2020

wise words

Sandra Marinella on the Healing Power of Writing Our Stories by Sandra Yeyati

n award-winning teacher and author of The Story You Need to Tell: Writing to Heal from Trauma, Illness, or Loss, Sandra Marinella has empowered thousands of people to use stories, poems and journal writing to find greater well-being and resilience in their lives. Prompted by a breast cancer diagnosis and her own journal, she helps people connect with their truth and move beyond entrenched negative emotions and thoughts.

What is the power of story and personal writing?

We all have stories in our minds that play over and over again. They define who we are. In recent years, neuroscience has led us to this powerful understanding that we are quite flexible as human beings. After we become conscious of our stories and how we’re using them in our lives, we can rework and reframe them, and choose to see them in a positive or better light. We can change and grow our stories to become better people with greater well-being.

How do we get unstuck from playing out stories in our minds?

A story that keeps looping, one that you are obsessed with, is generally being re38

played in the emotional centers, or right side, of your brain, and you don’t have much control over it. To get unstuck, you need to voice this story and complete it. Writing it down and sifting through it later can help. Once you do this, you can be logical and choose how you’re going to interpret, frame and live with it. In the book, I talk about Chris, whose sister was homeless and died. He was struggling with that story. It was going around in his mind, over and over, all the time. He was in pain and grieving from the loss of his sister. It took him a while before he decided to rewrite the story as fiction, telling it in the way he wished it had come out. In the process, he was able to better understand his loss, make peace with it and set it free.

How do we edit our stories while remaining grounded in reality?

We do not want to lie to ourselves. We want to know our truth, but there is so much wisdom in what we call “positive illusions”. If we can choose to take a hard story and see it in a very positive way, we can find threads of it that we can weave through our truth, and let that help us grow and make our vision of our story better.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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If we don’t tell others or write our stories, can they harm us?

Yes. I think they can, but I don’t want to underestimate the value of silence. When we are facing trauma, we need space and time and silence to be able to wrap our heads around the hard things that are happening to us. But then, breaking the silence is cathartic. It releases the pain. It helps us establish not only that we have the pain, but how we can bear it. Later, we can come back to those words and reflect on them— that’s when we come to understand more about where we are, what we think, what we feel and how we can move forward and rewrite and regrow our stories in positive ways.

Do you have any recommendations for those suffering in these trying times?

I’ve interviewed many war veterans, and they said that when they were out in the midst of warfare, they had to put their thoughts and emotions on hold so that they could move forward and be strong. That’s why many of them were falling apart with PTSD afterwards. I also interviewed a few soldiers who carried journals into war and found it extremely helpful to be able to scream, yell and release their words into them. We should be giving all healthcare workers journals and online support on how to write and how to take care of themselves. Counseling and therapy are wonderful, and I wish we could provide it to everybody all the time, but we can’t; and journal writing, or any kind of therapeutic writing, is such a wonderful backup for a human being to have when they are struggling. Keeping a pandemic journal might prove to be not only a healthy choice for our times, but a treasure historically for our grandchildren. Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a freelance writer. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

September 2020

samael334/AdobeStock.com

inspiration

HAPPINESS HELPERS Five Ways to Be More Positive by Brad Aronson

tudies show that when we see the positive more often, we’re happier and kinder to ourselves and to those around us. Luckily, we’re not locked into one way of viewing the world. We can choose to see things in a more positive fashion. Here are some steps we can take to teach ourselves to look for the positive more often. Eventually, the brain can get into the habit of doing this without any prodding.

Compliment at least one person every day. Maybe we can begin the day

by sending a short email or text telling someone why we appreciate them. Besides reshaping how we see the world, we might make someone’s day.

Keep a gratitude journal. Every

night, write down three things to be grateful for. Researchers have found that people that regularly keep track of what they’re grateful for are happier. We can also have a nightly family discussion about what happened that day that we’re thankful for.

Perform a daily act of kindness.

When we perform a kind act every day, we start noticing other opportunities to be kind, creating a cycle of positivity in our minds. Think small—a thank-you note or letting someone cut in front of us in traffic. 40

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

WakeUpNaturally.com

Be mindful of who and what we expose ourselves to. The people we

spend time with and what we watch, listen to and read all send messages to our brain that influence how we see the world. Train the brain for positivity. Here is a simple 10-minute exercise that can train the mind to think differently:

• Get a pen and paper. Take only

three seconds to look around the room and remember everything that’s red. Then take only a few seconds to write a list of everything you remember that’s red. Finish this step before continuing.

• Now write down everything that is blue. Chances are that like most

people, we won’t remember the blue things nearly as well because we weren’t looking for them. We see what we look for, and that’s as much an asset as a shortcoming. Training the brain to be more positive takes time, but it’s a priceless opportunity to change our perspective and become happier. Brad Aronson, a tech entrepreneur and investor, is the author of HumanKind: Changing the World One Small Act At a Time. Connect at BradAronson.com.

Intuitive & Healing Arts ASTROLOGY

MEDICAL INTUITIVE

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

Dr. Penni Waldman Medium, Healer, Readings sixsensedoc@gmail.com 914.961.8412

DREAMS AWAKENED WORKSHOP

PSYCHIC MEDIUM

Living Beyond Surviving Workshop leader; Marcia Miller Contact: marcia@ livingbeyondsurviving.com LivingBeyondSurviving.com

ENERGY HEALING

Healing Outdoor Retreat Planned for Jefferson Valley

ynthia Chase, a psycho-spiritual therapist in private practice in Westchester and the founder of Reiki Fusion, will offer a safe, outdoor in-person retreat on September 19 in Jefferson Valley. “Events will be held lakeside, around a cozy fire,” Chase says. “Each person will have the opportunity to receive a healing and be part of the healing circle inviting connection and transformation.” The rain date is September 26. In her practice, which has spanned more than 30 years, Chase joins the principles and practices of East and West in the work of personal growth and enlightenment. She is an expert in the field of positive psychology, which focuses on a person’s strengths instead of weakness or pathology. As a Reiki master she has developed the Reiki Fusion process, drawing on the eastern principles of energy work and shamanism as well as her own experience. Her workshops and retreats integrate a variety of approaches, including psychoanalytic psychotherapy, bioenergetics, dream analysis, Gestalt principles, psychodrama, meditation and energy medicine.

Healing with Nature’s Songs Destress with sounds from nature blended with reiki & feather healing. By appointment: 845.489.7250 One Heart Healing Laura Malfa Katonah & Skype: 914.441.2381 LauraMalfaHealing.com

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

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

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

Anne H. Bentzen, RMT, JRP Reiki Master Teacher & Energetic Counseling 914.588.4079; balancing4life.com

SHAMANISM INTUITIVE HEALING CENTER Purple Lotus Zen Michelle B. Whitney Psychic Card Reader, Reiki Dream Interpreter By Appt. Only; Yonkers, NY 914.513.8398; purplelotuszen@ yahoo.com

Sheryl Johnson Shaman, Intuitive Guidance, Teacher Scarsdale & Briarcliff 914.715.5048 soulhealinghudsonvalley.com

Cost: $95, lunch included (vegan and gluten-free options available). For more info, call 860.395.0284, email cynthiamchase@ gmail.com or visit CynthiaMChase.com.

To place a listing on this page call 845.593.0065. September September 2020

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 September 12 (for the October issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Email WPCcalendar@naturalawakeningsmag.com for guidelines on how to submit listings. No phone calls or faxes, please.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

markyourcalendar

Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally (Zoom) – 6-7pm. These addiction cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

Saturday, September 12

Make Your Class a Refuge

with Cyndi Lee Hosted by Yoga Teachers Association 1:30–4:30 p.m. Discover how to confidently and kindly offer your yoga classes as a refuge during stressful times.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

CALENDAR

Save these future dates!

October 10: Ancient Insights: Four Great Attitudes with Karen Lee November 14: Mudras: Empower Your Practice and Teaching with Deirdre Breen December 12: Deep Listening with Jillian Pransky January 9: The Five Elements in Yoga with Colleen Breeckner January 30: Yoga for Everybody with Dianne Bondy Workshops held via Zoom until further notice

$45 members/$65 nonmembers Register at ytayoga.com 914.582.7816 / ytacommunications@gmail.com YOGA TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

THURSDAYS, SEPTEMBER 3 Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally (Zoom) – 6-7pm. These addiction cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

markyourcalendar Bring help & hope to people fighting breast and ovarian cancer!

ANNUAL SUPPORT-A-WALK Sunday, October 4

Presented by Support Connection, Inc. This year: Walk With Us, Wherever You Are! THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO HELP! Donate ~ Raise Funds Form a Team ~ Spread the Word Walk Where You Are ~ Make a Difference! supportconnection.org/support-a-walk 914.962.6402 42

Check out the latest events at WakeUpNaturally.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Psychic Medium Event – 12noon-5pm. (9/4, 9/8 & 9/19) With Sherrill Zucker, Psychic, Mediumship and Past -Life Readings. $60. Custom Crystal Creations 16 Cedar St. Dobbs Ferry. Info: 914.231.6296.

Adult Guided Channeling/Meditation Group – 7:15-8:15pm. 9/17 & 25. With Merrill Black, LCSW/Reiki Master. Via Zoom. Unique theme, meditation and group discussion. $20. Contact: Merrill 914.793.2600. thetemperancecenter.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Make Your Class a Refuge, Not an Escape – 1:30-4:30pm. With Cyndi Lee. Discover three tenets and four guidelines that will help confidently, safely, and kindly offer yoga classes as a refuge during stressful times. Via Zoom. Info: Audrey Brooks: 914.582.7816. ytayoga.com.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Adult Guided Channeling/Meditation Group (Full Moon) – 7:15-8:15pm. With Merrill Black, LCSW/Reiki Master. Via Zoom. Unique theme, meditation and group discussion. $20. Contact: Merrill 914.793.2600. thetemperancecenter.com.

LifeForce Yoga Chakra Balancing Flow & Yoga Nidra – 11am-12:15pm. With Merrill Black. Via Zoom. A LifeForce yoga gentle meditative flow using sounds, postures, hand gestures and restorative poses ending with yoga nidra. $20. Contact Merrill: 914.793.2600. thetemperancecenter.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Vinyasa Flow – 9/12, 9/19 & 9/26 – 9-10:30am. With Deirdre Breen, Ishta Trained Yoga Master. In person and virtual. Vinyasa flow class ending with a lovely Yoga Nidra to rest and recharge. $25. Golden Prana, 223 Katonah Ave. Katonah. Info: 914.984.3408; goldenprana.yoga.

Virtual Guided Meditation with Amy – 7:308:15pm. Sept. 14, 21 & 28. De stress, find balance. Explore stillness and quiet the Mind. $10. Golden Prana, 223 Katonah Ave. Katonah. Info: 914.984.3408; goldenprana.yoga.

Tarot Card Reading Event – 11am-5pm. Weekends in September. With Josh Valik. $50. Custom Crystal Creations 16 Cedar St. Dobbs Ferry. Info: 914.231.6296.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Adult BFRB Support Group – 7-8pm. With Merrill Black, LCSW/Reiki Master. Connect/ share with others who have Trichotillomania/ Dermatillomania and other body focused repetitive behaviors. Via Zoom. Free. Contact: Merrill 914.793.2600. thetemperancecenter.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 5th Annual Sunset Yoga in the Park: Flowers City Park– 6:45-8pm. With Tovami Yoga. All levels welcome. Free. New Rochelle. Space is limited and advanced sign up is required by emailing info@ tovamiyoga.com.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Storying Our Healing Connections Experiences – With Julienne B. Ryan. WHN Westchester Holistic Network, 6:30p-8:30pm. Teleconference: Preregister to attend: WestchesterHolisticNetwork.org COVID-19: Staying Safe with Ayurveda – 7-8pm. Free online lecture with Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, an Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician. Register through the North Castle Public Library, 19 Whippoorwill Road East, Armonk, 914.273.3887; northcastlelibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Full Moon Lunar Gong Bath in Virgo – 5-7pm. With Hari Sangat. Talk on the astrology of the full moon energies in Virgo and then release and renew with the healing sounds of the gong. $30. Golden Prana, 223 Katonah Ave. Katonah. Info: 914.984.3408; goldenprana.yoga. 5th Annual Sunset Yoga in the Park: Croton Point Park – 6:45-8pm. With Tovami Yoga. All levels welcome. Free. Croton-on-Hudson. Space is limited and advanced sign up is required by emailing info@tovamiyoga.com.

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planetwatch

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally (Zoom) – 6-7pm. These addiction cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com. Heavy Metal Yoga (OnIine) – 7-8:15pm. Let’s get hot and heavy in this Energizing Vinyasa Flow with Stephanie Scavelli. Build strength and stamina. Yoga experience helpful. Heavy metal playlist available on YouTube or Spotify. Donations welcome. Free link at YogaForager.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 MeSpace/BabySpace: Prenatal Alexander Technique Workshop – 10-11:15am. Body Mapping helps connect to the supportive space inside. Learn AT tools for living with ease during walking, sleeping, sitting and bending. $25. Beacon Yoga Center, 464 Main St, Beacon. Info: Elizabeth Castagna 917.656.7007; beaconyogacenter.org.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Anxiety and Depression: Cultivating a Chemistry of Joy – 7-8pm. Free online lecture with Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, an Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician. Register through the Pawling Free Public Library, 11 Broad Street, Pawling, 845.855.3444; pawlingfreelibrary.org.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally (Zoom) – 6-7pm. These addiction cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

SUNDAYS,SEPTEMBER 27 Jikiden Reiki 1 Shoden Certificate Class – 10am5pm. 9/27-10/4. Anne Bentzen. Learn original Reiki to relieve stress, pain, inflammation, boost immunity. Includes energy basics, history, 3 channeling activations, supervised practice. $350. 137 East Lake St, West Harrison. 914.588.4079; Balancing4life.com.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally 6-7pm. Quit with Quinn addiction cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914.473.2015 quitwithquinn.com.

September 2020 Astrology with Pamela Cucinell

Ready or Not

Listen with care on September 1; messages with love are available despite the noise. The September 2 Pisces full moon heightens the love vibration for those ready to do the work. Those not ready for reciprocity (to receive and give) fade away on September 3. Communications sharpen September 4, but fast decisions are not advised. Disagreements seem unavoidable on September 5, but the sidelines offer relief.

The Strategic Warrior

On September 6, be present: Touch with care, smell the flowers, savor every taste. Consider and deepen into difficult or delicious moments on September 7. Slow down! Rushing wastes time September 8. Resistance is futile with Mars retrograde on September 9; through mid-November we do well to accept and work with frustration and delays. Aggression, anger and insistence meet indifference or rejection. Rid mental cobwebs the morning of September 10 to clarify intent. If something feels off to you September 11, do not engage.

Slow Cooking

Jupiter direct on September 12 opens up possibilities best achieved when you take your time. Prioritize “fun” on September 13. Creative juice needs an outlet September 14: Invite the power of personal transformation. Unexpected distractions on September 15 increase the need to complete certain tasks. Evaluate your health and routine September 16. The Virgo new

moon September 17 invites a fresh outlook for a new reality. Let the ideas simmer September 18, because this lunar cycle benefits from gradual adjustments.

Steady Pace

Continue to learn as you go September 19. By September 20, forms take shape and intentions crystallize. Embrace moments of meditation this International Day of Peace September 21. The September 22 autumn equinox emphasizes the need for dynamic justice through compromise. A morning of action on September 23 yields contemplative enterprise. Productivity increases for those open to innovation on September 24.

Down Under

Don’t assume everyone is on the same page September 25; tempers rise when the sun sets. Inspiration sails on September 26, but keep alert to undercurrents. Research benefits September 27. Massage the message to increase alliances September 28. With Saturn direct on September 29, the screws tighten and accountability matters. An efficient morning September 30 allows for a meditative evening. Pamela Cucinell offers a spiritual astrological perspective for these quickly changing times, as well as guidance through private sessions and podcasts. For more information, contact her at 917.796.6026 or pamela@ insightoasis.com, or visit InsightOasis.com and ActiveSpirituality.Life. See ad page 40. September 2020

Free PULSE Call – 8pm. With Janet Catalina. PULSE Call of Hope, Beyond the Corona Virus. Let go of fears and create a positive future for self and for the world. Free. 515.606.5313, pin 165677. Info: PulseManifestation.com.

on going events NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email WPCcalendar@naturalawakeningsmag.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Ongoing Calendar listings must be resent quarterly for our January, April, July & October editions.

tuesday

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Green Street Radio Conversations on Healthy & Sustainable Living – 10am. With Patti and Doug Wood, produced by Grassroots Environmental Education on WBAI-FM in New York and streaming live around the world at WBAI.org

sunday Farmers, Makers & Vintage with Yoga and Music – 8:30-12:30pm. Mt. Carmel Field 8th St. at Highland Ave, Verplanck. Outdoor Yoga – 10am. Bring a yoga mat and water bottle. All levels, all bodies. $10 donation to PranaMoon Yoga. No registration necessary. At The Market at Mt. Carmel Field 8th St. at Highland Ave, Verplanck. Irvington Farmers Market – 9am-1pm. Dows Lane School Parking Lot (6 Dows Lane, Irvington). Info: irvmkt.org. Integral Yoga Virtual on Zoom – 9-10:30. Easeful asana, deep relaxation, pranayama and meditation. All levels and prenatal welcome. $10 on zoom. Register at beaconyogacenter.org to receive link. Yoga at The Market – 10am. Thru Nov 1. no registration necessary. all levels yoga class. rain or shine. With PranaMoon Yoga instructors, Loren and Mt. Carmel Field, 247 8th St. Verplanck. $10 suggestion donation. Info: Kacey 914.323.8343; gatheringlove.org. Beacon Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Veteran’s Place, Beacon. Info: beaconfarmersmarket.org. Rhinebeck Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Located in the village of Rhinebeck municipal parking lot. Info: Rhinebeckfarmersmarket.com. Hudson Valley Regional Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Putnam County’s only year-round indoor-outdoor Famer’s Market. Pet-friendly. Organic

Find and post last minute events on Natural Awakenings’ Free Online Calendar: WakeUpNaturally.com 44

produce, Kombucha, plants, wine, complimentary organic coffee and more. Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association, 15 Mt. Ebo Rd. South, Brewster. hudsonvalleyfarmersmarket.org. Afternoon Tea & Meditation – 1pm. Unwind, release and recharge. Angel Aura Spiritual Boutique, 12 W Main St, Pawling. 845.493.0432. AngelAuraBoutique.com.

monday Zoom YogaShine for Adults – 9-10:30am. Kripalu-based, gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, developing consciousness, curiosity and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class is free. 914.769.8745. YogaShine.com. Poughkeepsie Waterfront Market – 3-6:30pm. Thru September 28. The Pavilion at MHCM 75 N. Water St., Poughkeepsie. Free parking in the Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum parking lot. Info: mhcm.org/visit/poughkeepsie-waterfront-market. Virtual Basic Flow Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. With Cara. A vinyasa class focusing on the alignment of the basic poses, nothing fancy. $10 drop-in. Email for the virtual link: elevateyogastudios@gmail.com. Zoom YogaShine for Pre-Teens and Teens – 7-8pm. Gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, fun, heart-centered, Kripalu-based, developing consciousness, curiosity, strength and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class is free. Very experienced teacher. 914.769.8745. YogaShine.com. Foundations of Gentle Flow Yoga (Online) – 7-8pm. With Stephanie Scavelli. Slow flow of gentle stretching, standing poses and meditative breathing. For those new to yoga or seeking a review of proper biomechanics. Donations welcome. Free link: YogaForager.com.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

WakeUpNaturally.com

Qi Gong – 10:30am. With Steve Goldstein. Qigong is a gentle moving meditation to enhance the body’s qi back into flow. $10. Addison Park, Chatsworth Ave, Larchmont. 914.825.9535. SacredLarchmont.com. Virtual Breastfeeding Support – 2-4pm. With Cabiria Dougherty 1st and 3rd Tues. Breastfeeding support from a certified lactation counselor. Latch assessments and suggestions for improved positioning, questions about pumping, etc. $40. Info: Nurspace.com/calendar.

wednesday Rise + Shine Yoga Live Online – 7-8am. With Stephanie Scavelli. Easy stretching and energizing sun salutations. All level vinyasa practice to promote better posture, easy breathing and calm mind. Based out of Northern Westchester. Donations welcome. YogaForager.com. Vinyasa Flow – 8:30am. With Olivia. An empowering class that creates a safe space to challenge one’s mind, body and spirit to show what one is truly capable of. $10. Addison Park, Chatsworth Ave, Larchmont. 914.825.9535. SacredLarchmont.com. White Plains Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Location: Court St. Between Martine Ave and Main Street, White Plains. Information: whiteplainsfarmersmarket.com/op. Virtual All Level Flow – 9am. With Cara. A vinyasa style class to suit the needs of the individual. Modifications are offered to accommodate beginners, intermediate, or more advanced practitioners. $10 drop-in. Email for the virtual link: elevateyogastudios@gmail.com. Zoom YogaShine for Adults – 9-10:30am. With Vitalah Simon. Kripalu-based, gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heartcentered, developing consciousness, curiosity and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class is free. Very experienced teacher. 914.769.8745. YogaShine.com. Morning Bliss Yoga (Online) - 7:15-8:15am. Gentle Yoga to align physical and mental energy with inner wisdom with focus on proper biomechanics, improved posture and deep breathing. Stephanie Scavelli offers instructive verbal cues and a Spotify playlist. Donations welcome. Register: YogaForager.com.

Putnam Valley Farm Market – 3-6:30pm. Fridays through August 28. Outdoor farmers market. Tompkins Corners Cultural Center, 729 Peekskill Hollow Rd. Info. putnamvalleyresidentscoaltion@yahoo.com.

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saturday

thursday Meditation Healing Circle – 8am. With Lisa. Guided meditation to help settle and ground physical and emotional bodies and send unconditional healing love to oneself, the community and globally. $10. Addison Park, Chatsworth Ave, Larchmont. 914.825.9535. SacredLarchmont.com. Chair Yoga Virtual on Zoom – 9:30-10:30am. $5-$10. Register at beaconyogacenter.org to receive link. Yoga In The Park – 6-7pm. With Pete and Toshi Seeger. Riverside Park, Beacon. Meet at 5:50pm at the bench to the left upon entering park. By donation. Just show up. Zoom YogaShine for Adults – 7-8:30pm. With Vitalah Simon. Kripalu-based, gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, developing consciousness, curiosity and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class free. 914.769.8745. YogaShine.com. Vinyasa Restorative Flow – 7:30-8:45pm. With JoAnne Salomone, CYT. A great vinyasa flow class that incorporates restorative yoga. Open level Class. Via zoom. $10. Contact: Jo-Anne 917.364.1871. Eastchester. thetemperancecenter.com.

Chappaqua farmers market – 8:30am-1pm. Located at the Chappaqua train station. Info: chappaquafarmersmarket.org. Cold Spring Farmers’ Market – 8:30-1pm. Boscobel, 1601 NY-9D, Garrison. Info: csfarmmarket.org. Hastings Farmer’s Market – 8:30am-1:30pm. Commuter Parking Lot across from Hastingson-Hudson Metro-North Station. Information: hastingsfarmersmarket.org. Larchmont Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm. At the front of the Metro-North parking deck Off Chatsworth Avenue. Larchmont. Info/updates: downtoearthmarkets.com. Ossining Farmers Market – Year-Round. 8:30am1pm. Near the corner of Spring & Main Streets. Info/ updates: downtoearthmarkets.com. Pleasantville Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm. Metro-North Parking Lot, 10 Memorial Plaza, Pleasantville. Info: pleasantvillefarmersmarket.org. Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow Farmers Market, The TaSH – 8:30am-10:30am (drive-through), 11am-1:30pm (walk-through). Tarrytown Commuter Lot F (near Losee Field and the Tarrytown Marina. Info: tashfarmersmarket.org. Pawling Farmers Market – 9am-1pm. Thru Sept 26. In the village but now in the green north of the Chamber of Commerce. Information: pawlingfarmersmarket.org. Peekskill Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. One Bank Street, Peekskill. Info: 914.734.5192. Kingston Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. County Courthouse parking lot, entrances on John St and Wall St. Info: Kingstonfarmersmarket.org. Gossett Brothers Farmer’s Market – 9am–1pm. 1202 Rte. 35, South Salem. Info: Gossett Brothers Nursery on Facebook.

friday

Virtual All Level Flow – 9:30am. With Cara. A vinyasa style class to suit the needs of the individual. Modifications are offered to accommodate beginners, intermediate or more advanced practitioners. $10 drop-in. Email for the virtual link: elevateyogastudios@gmail.com.

New Rochelle Farmers Market – 9am-2pm. Located at Thomas Paine Cottage Museum in New Rochelle. Info: downtoearthmarkets.com.

John Jay Homestead Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Location: 400 Jay St, Katonah. Info: johnjayhomestead.org.

Zoom Chair YogaShine, Super Gentle, for Adults with Special Needs and Seniors – 10-11pm. With Vitalah Simon. Gentle and strengthening, calming the nervous system, heart-centered, Kripalu-based, developing curiosity, flexibility and compassion. Lots of individual attention. First class free. 914.769.8745. YogaShine.com.

Millerton Farmers Market – 10am-2pm. Located at Millerton Methodist Church, at the corner of Dutchess Ave and Main Street. Info: neccmillerton.org/farmers-market.

Gentle Yoga – 10:30am. With Liz. This gentle yoga helps connect to the healing, grounding, power of the breath, feel sensations in the body and help quiet the mind. $10. Addison Park, Chatsworth Ave, Larchmont. 914.825.9535. SacredLarchmont.com.

classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month, $25 minimum. To place a listing, email content to Dana-NA@ WakeUpNaturally.com. Deadline is the 12th of the month. FOR RENT OFFICE SPACE: Part/Full Time for holistic practitioners sharing our vision. The Temperance Center (Eastchester) 914.793.2600. OPPORTUNITY FOR HEALTHCARE and wellness providers to rent office(s) and studio or for LMT’s to join a thriving practice. Soulauras 510 North State Road Briarcliff, NY 10510. Info: 914.941.2400, soulauras@gmail.com PROFESSIONAL SPACE, good for health and wellness practitioners. Flexible hours and days. Route 9, Ossining/Briarcliff. Call: 914.292.0602 or molly@stepwisenow.com.

HELP WANTED ONLINE SALES: DIGITAL CONNECTION NY: We are seeking ad sales people who are tech savvy who want to help businesses grow online through our new targeted marketing program on big brand sites. Supplemental income, commissionbased. Outside sales experience preferred. Digital Connection NY a division of Natural Awakenings. Please call: 845.593.0065 or email: dana-na@ wakeupnaturally.com

VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Stray HELP, a 501c3 cat rescue, needs your skillset: humane trapping, adoption events and marketing among others. Contact ann@strayhelp.org or call 845.488.5211 for more information.

List Your CLASSIFIED HERE Regional exposure in Westchester, Putnam & Dutchess

Yoga Teachers Association Workshops – 2nd Sat. 1:30pm. Via Zoom until further notice. Open to teachers and students, members and nonmembers. Info: ytayoga.com.

September 2020

community resource directory

BEHAVIORAL OPTOMETRY

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

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

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE KARLA BOOTH DIAMOND, MAMSAT

LAURIE R. MALLIS, MD, LAC

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

ASTROLOGY ASTROLOGY INSIGHT

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 40.

AYURVEDA

QUIT WITH QUINN

Briarcliff Manor and Midtown Manhattan 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. 85% success rate. See ad pg 37.

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.

BIOHACKING PEAK WELLNESS

13 Edgewood Drive, Somers NY 914.301.3393, PeakwellnessNY.com PeakwellnessNY@gmail.com Cutting-edge Technologies, Holistic Health Practices, and Energy Medicine are utilized to Supercharge your Immunity, Vitality & Wellbeing with minimal effort and maximum results. Appropriate for all ages and lifestyles. Look, Feel and Be your Best from the inside out! See ad pg 13.

Pamela Cucinell NCGR PAA 917.796.6026; InsightOasis.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 9.

ADDICTION CESSATION

495 Central Park Ave, Suite 301, Scarsdale 914.874.1177; DrSlotnick.com

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

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

ACUPUNCTURE

SAMANTHA SLOTNICK, OD, FAAO, FCOVD

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,T,W. See ad pg 13.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

WakeUpNaturally.com

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

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

September 2020

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY JOY MATALON LMT, CST Joymatalon.com 914.519.8138 Ossining & Garrison

CranioSacral Therapy with a specialty in Somato Emotional Release and Process Acupressure allows chronic physical, emotional, and spiritual issues to be intimately explored bringing relief from pain and activating a healing process which continues after the session is over.

FACIALS ROSEMARY VOLPE CARINCI

FRESH ORGANIC SALON SOLUTIONS

Feel pampered with the purest organic products combining powerful botanicals and vitamins which deliver remarkable results and younger looking skin. Rosemary is a licensed cosmetologist with three decades of experience and offers a total sensory experience. Her passion is to make every woman feel indulged and beautiful.

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.

914.469.4298 By appointment only Mahopac, NY 10541

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!

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

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

ENERGY HEALING ANNE H. BENTZEN, MSOT, RMT, JRP

Usui/Karuna® Reiki Master Teacher, Jikiden Reiki, Energetic Counseling, OT Locations Armonk and Eastchester 914.588.4079; balancing4life.com Energetic balance is essential to your health. Restore energetic flow, balance your chakras, clear stress symptoms, pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, insomnia and more. Improve natural immunity, mental clarity and peace. Reiki classes all levels. Private sessions. Weekend retreats. See ad pg 40.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE SUSANNE SALTZMAN, MD

250 E. Hartsdale Ave. St. 22, Hartsdale, NY 400 Rella Blvd. St. 165, Montebello, 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. See ad pg 9.

Energy Medicine Practitioner, Teacher, Medical Intuitive, Physical Therapist 239.289.3744; theesotericbloom.com

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.

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 5.

HOMEOPATHY SUSANNE SALTZMAN, MD

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. See ad pg 9.

Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Are you exhausted from pain, stress or PTSD? Balance your body’s energies for optimal physical health and emotional well-being with Esoteric Healing, a high vibrational technique from Tibet. See ad pg 11.

Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Edition

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

250 E. Hartsdale Ave. St. 22, Hartsdale, NY 400 Rella Blvd. St. 165, Montebello, NY 914.472.0666; HartsdaleHomeopathy.com

BERNADETTE BLOOM

HAIR SALON

WakeUpNaturally.com

MASSAGE & BODYWORK BALANCE BODYWORK

Therapeutic Massage & Reiki Lisanne Elkins, MA, LMT, RM 153 Main St. Suite B, Mt. Kisco 914.319.4375; balancebodywork.biz Offering therapeutic massage and Reiki for stress- and pain-relief, relaxation and general wellness. Gift certificates available for all modalities, including pre- and postnatal bodywork, aromatherapy and hot stone massage by appointment. Set your intention for healing yourself and those around you.

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 13.

SOULAURAS WELLNESS CENTER

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

MATTRESSES

Do you want a healthier night’s sleep? Visit locally owned Davis Furniture and see their full line of all natural American-made mattresses. For over 90 years they have been giving their customers more, and charging them less. And they’ve once again been voted the best furniture store in the Hudson Valley. See ad pg 13..

MEDICAL MARIJUANA LYNN PARODNECK M.D.

Certified Medical Marijuana Practitioner 914.525.6536; DrParodneck@gmail.com DrLynnParodneck.com Evaluations and Consultations; D r. P a r o d n e c k w o r k s i n compliance with the New York State Compassionate Care Act. She is one of the leading medical marijuana clinicians in New York, with numerous referring specialists and an extensive professional network in the cannabis industry. See ad pg 19.

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.

REIKI NUTRITION NUSPECIES

Nuspecies.com 866.624.4117 HQ: 427 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508 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 6.

DAVIS FURNITURE

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

REFLEXOLOGY

REIKI CLASSES

Cynthia M Chase, LCSW, Reiki Master 860.395.0284 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.

RETREATS YOGA IN THE ADIRONDACKS

PODIATRY KATONAH PODIATRY, PC

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

2 Coulter Road, Bakers Mills, NY 12811 518.251.3015; 914.556.8258 yogaintheadirondacks.com Yoga in the Adirondacks is nestled in the valley of the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, where yoga embraces nature. Connect your mind, body and spirit and explore your retreat with like-minded people to build a happier and healthier life. Studio available for your yoga/wellness private group as well. See ad pg 33.

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 5.

September 2020

BALANCE DAY SPA

SUPPORT CONNECTION

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 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 39.

Westchester’s ONLY Certified Green Spa 280 Mamaroneck Ave., Suite 310, White Plains, NY 914.358.9898; balance-dayspa.com

Independent BEMER Distributor Mahopac/Pawling/Scarsdale 914.760.5645 danafeelsgood.bemergroup.com

Change Your Life. Support your optimal well-being systemically. Enhance blood-flow, circulation, cardiac function, physical endurance, energy, concentration, mental acuity, stress reduction and relaxation. Easy to use, only 8 minutes, two times a day. Sessions available. CALL For Free Demo.

Led by Janet Catalina, MSW MEMBER: Westchester Holistic Network 914.548.8372; catalina.janet@gmail.com Learn how to become a Master Manifester. Create that dream job, find your soul mate, pay off your debts or whatever you desire. Learn to release what has blocked you up to now. Once you have learned how to PULSE, you have an empowerment tool for the rest of your life. Please visit pulsemanifestion.com for workshop dates.

WEIGHT LOSS QUIT WITH QUINN

Addiction-Free Naturally Briarcliff Manor and Midtown Manhattan Steve.healingny@gmail.com 914.473.2015; QuitWithQuinn.com

REIKI FUSION: ENERGY HEALING,

Dance, Movement and Breath Work Retreat Cynthia M Chase, Reiki Master/Teacher 860.395.0284 cynthiamchase@gmail.com MEMBER: Westchester Holistic Network

Quit with Quinn helps people lose weight by overcoming addiction to sugar and white flour, and compulsive overeating. After treatment, most people experience indifference towards refined sugar, sweets and treats, leading to easy weight loss. 30 years experience. 85% success rate. See ad pg 37.

510 N. State Rd., Briarcliff, NY Soulauras.com

PULSE MANIFESTATION & EMPOWERMENT WORKSHOP

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 5.

SOULAURAS HOLISTIC WISDOM & WELLNESS CENTER

Find local businesses with ease at WakeUpNaturally.com

WORKSHOPS

Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 914.214.9678 holisticdentist.com

WELLNESS CENTER

Natural Awakenings - Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess NY Edition September 2020

Articles inside

EMOTIONAL

THE FUTURE OF YOGA

HAPPINESS HELPERS

SANDRA MARINELLA

YOGA FOR EVERY BODY

Contents