June 2021 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties CT by Natural Awakenings Magazine

EE R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

SUSTAINABLE WAYS TO TRAVEL THE WORLD

Natural Toxin Binders for LYME DISEASE

NATURAL MAMA

Holistic Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy The Benefits of

AmpCoil

EXPLAINED June 2021 | Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties | eNaturalAwakenings.com June 2021

Dr. Tom O'Bryan Chief Health Off icer, KnoWEwell

"WE ARE TRANSFORMING THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE" Personalized. Diverse. Inclusive. Regenerative Whole-Health and Well-Being Benefits. It’s how KnoWEwell is transforming the future of healthcare. Award-winning. One global online destination for today’s trusted Regenerative Whole Health knowledge, resources, and ecosystem collaborating to inspire and empower individuals to prevent harm, address chronic diseases and achieve WELLthier Living – Happy. Healthy. Abundant. PurposeFilled. Join the movement as we share knowledge and healing success stories, access to evidence-based resources, immersive learning opportunities from the experts, and help create meaningful connections.. Take control and optimize your health and well-being by visiting: KnoWEwell.com As a Natural Awakenings reader, receive 50% off your first year of membership. Individuals apply:

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203-856-9566 www.203TLC.com

203 TLC

203 TLC is a community of accredited health and wellness providers offering a wide variety of services and products. Founded in 1997 by Beth Leas, the TLC Tribe is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health resource - a vibrant and growing community of over 90 Members, committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities. We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and resources designed to help you live life well. Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot Beth Leas 25+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone bethleas.com 203-856-9566

Lyme Disease Healing Gregg Kirk, Lyme Recovery Clinic & Detox Center Heal from chronic illness through all-natural herbal treatments, intensive detox, cleanses & energy healing. 528 Post Rd, Darien Gregg.Kirk@gmail.com 203-858-9725

Transformation Coaching/Healing Katie Augustyn, MA, CPC Transformation Coach, Shamanic Practitioner, Spiritual Evolution Trainer, Energy Healer, TV Host TransformationCenterCT.com 203-820-3800

Essential Oils Wayne Leiss, LMT, CAO Adventures in Connection. dōTERRA Essential Oils, Symphony of the Cells™ Applications and Massage Therapy 20 Fifth Ave, Apt A, Danbury Wayne@WayneLeiss.com WayneLeiss.com • 203-994-1207

Life Coach/Hypnotist Thea Litsios, CHy When you are ready to reinvent yourself. Currently working remotely. 203-693-1493

Meditation & Counseling Meg Reilly, MS, CH Counselor, Workshop Facilitator, Writer, Poet Services in person or by phone megreilly360.com 203-952-6272

Salt Cave Salt Cave of Darien Salt therapy, massage, meditation & yoga 555 Post Rd, Darien Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com 203-658-7667

VISIT US

Transformative Healing Susan Ahlstrom, Lighter & Brighter Wellness MS Counseling, EFT Practitioner, Reiki Master 450 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT lighterandbrighterwellness.com 401-232-4514

www.203TLC.com www.TribeTLC.com FB: Tribe TLC

Get to know us at TLC’s monthly networking breakfast! Looking for a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities, and FUN? We meet on the first Tuesday of every month, at Valencia Luncheria, 164 Main St, Norwalk, CT, from 8:30 -10:00am. Come the first time as Beth's guest - and if you find your time with us worthwhile, we invite you to become a TLC Member. Please RSVP to Beth Leas at: 203-856-9566 (call/text) orTLCBethLeas@gmail.com so she can reserve your place. June 2021

Contents 13 SINGING IN THE SHOWER

Having Fun and Experimenting with Voice

14 PRACTICING YOGA AS A FAMILY

16 AMPCOIL

Using PEMF and Bioresonance to Bounce Back from Lyme Disease

18 5 NATURAL TOXIN BINDERS Every Lyme Patient Needs to Know

20 TOUCHED BY LYME

Excerpt of Chronic, Long-Awaited Book Tackling ‘Lyme-Plus”

23 ANDRIA SOMERS on

Being United for Better Parenting

24 ACCOMPLISHMENT/

ACHIEVEMENT

The A in Positive Psychology

26 NATURAL MAMA

Holistic Approaches to a Healthy Pregnancy

28 TRAVELING FOR THE PLANET

Sustainable Ways to Explore the World

30 CREATE A

DOG-FRIENDLY YARD

Plants, Paths and Play Areas to Wag a Tail

DEPARTMENTS 7 news briefs 7 ad index 10 event brief 11 global briefs 12 health briefs 13 inspiration 16 community spotlight 23 wise words 4

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com

24 positive

psychology series 26 healthy kids 28 green living 30 naturally healthy pet 33 calendar 34 resource guide

Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ 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.

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ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email Advertising@eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time. 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. June 2021

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

FAIRFIELD & SOUTHERN LITCHFIELD COUNTIES

Publisher Erica Mills

Editor Michelle Bense

Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Michelle Bense Dorothy Kupcha Leland Berta Prevosti Ann C. Reeves Sales & Marketing Shirley Bloethe Erica Mills

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NATIONAL TEAM CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne Art Director Josh Pope Layout Gabrielle W-Perillo Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Anne-Marie Ryan Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakenings.com © 2021 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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Enjoy, and be well

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ONLINE @eNaturalAwakenings.com INTEGRATIVE HEALTH FOR MEN

Natural Approaches for Robust Vitality

VEGAN ROAD-TRIPPING

Travel Tips for Planet-Based Eaters

BEAT THE BLUES NATURALLY

Drug-Free Ways to Treat Depression

RELAXED KIDS

Simple Ways to Calm Anxious Children

Natural Awakenings is proudly printed in Connecticut at Trumbull Printing on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink. Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

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& Southern Litchfield June 2021 | Fairfield

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

his month, we’re celebrating the summer with a focus on Family SUSTAINABLE WAYS TO TRAVEL THE WORLD Wellness and Lyme Disease. Natural Toxin Now that June is here, this Binders for 5LYME DISEASE summer is starting to look NATURAL MAMforAa a lot different than last year. Holistic Tips Healthy Pregnancy While we are more eager than The Benefits of AmpCoil usual to get out, travel and exEXPLAINED plore, check out some tips for traveling sustainably—both near and far—in “Traveling for the Erica Mills Planet: Sustainable Ways to Explore the World” on page 28. In the northeast, spending time outdoors also means being safe and mindful of ticks, since we have a higher incidence of Lyme disease in this area than other parts of the U.S. In fact, the illness was named after the town of Lyme, Connecticut. To help our community learn more and find valuable resources, we’ve included several articles full of helpful modalities and advice from people who have struggled with Lyme and those who are successfully helping others through it. On page 16, meet Freddie Kimmel, whose own life-changing experience with AmpCoil—PEMF and bioresonance technology with specific applications geared toward Lyme disease—led him to join the AmpCoil team to support others on a similar journey. Gregg Kirk of Lyme Recovery Clinic, in Darien, highlights five supplements that bind to toxins commonly seen in Lyme patients, which can help detoxify the body (page 18). Thanks to Lyme Connection and LymeDisease.org, we’re also able to share an excerpt from the book Chronic: The Hidden Cause of the Autoimmune Pandemic and How to Get Healthy Again, featuring some common myths and facts about Lyme (page 20). This issue also includes holistic parenting tips, natural approaches to a healthy pregnancy and more family wellness fun. EE FR

THE FIT GARDENER Backyard Workouts Good for Mind and Bodya

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news briefs

display advertiser index

Optimal Body Program for Our Best Health

he Optimal Body Program, created and supervised by long-time Naturopathic Physicians Dr. Marvin Schweitzer and Dr. Amy Wiesner, was designed for those who could use more guidance, more intensive health coaching and ongoing support to start and maintain healthy habits in life, while improving physical and emotional health. Marvin Schweitzer & Amy Wiesner This is a doctor supervised program to optimize health, well-being, body composition, weight and healthy eating habits in an accessible, sustainable, structured and doable way. It helps people to lose weight, feel better, increase energy, decrease stress and inflammation, age gracefully and boost the immune system. The program includes therapies from Dr. Jeffrey Bland, Founder of the Institute for Functional Medicine and former Director of the Linus Pauling Research Institute, to assist in the clearing of toxins and inflammation; and Dr. Valter Longo, Director of the Longevity Institute at University of Southern California in Los Angeles and Director of the Program on Longevity and Cancer at IFOM in Milan, for longevity, optimized metabolism and healthy, long-term weight loss. They also address lifestyle habits that are keeping people from being healthy and include the energetic therapies acupuncture and PEMF treatments which help balance energy and transfer information within and between cells to promote optimal metabolism, healing, hormonal and immune system balance. Included in the program are physician consultations, nutrition guidelines, meditation instruction, exercise recommendations, recipes and pre- and post-treatment measurements of one’s body. For more information, call 203-962-5887, email DrAmyWiesner@gmail.com or visit HealthfulHarmony.com. See ad, page 14.

Introducing a New Online Studio Experience with Berta

erta Prevosti, founder and former owner of the Jiiva Center, has just opened a new online platform at RajaYogini.com, where she will be offering a litany of yoga, meditation, metaphysical and teacher training opportunities. RajaYogini.com is a unique online experience which brings the feel of the studio to our homes. Memberships for weekly classes begin as low as $9.99 a month. Prevosti is currently accepting enrollments in both the 100hour Meditation Teacher Training and The Bhagavad Gita, with early-bird pricing available. Both courses are certified by Yoga Alliance and valid for continuing education credits. As a gift to readers, RajaYogini.com has made available two Berta Prevosti free streamed workshops from Prevosti. The first, “Introduction to the 8 Limbs of Yoga”, is a guidebook for how to live our life. The second free workshop is an “Introduction to the World of Chakras”. “Please know that we only hire and teach from our hearts and you will feel as if you have found your community with us. You should expect your life to change, and then expect to begin to do the same for others,” enthuses Prevosti. “Please join RajaYogini.com and begin your journey with us. We can’t wait to get started.”

203TLC 3 Academy for Soul Healing

AmpCoil 40 The Angel Cooperative/ Angel Wing

Chamomille Natural Foods

Country Tick & Mosquito

Eye Care Associates, PC

Final Journey LLC

Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2021

Hilda Demirjian Laser & Skin Care

Holistic Community Professionals 27 Hummingbird Sound Yoga

Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies

KleinSleep 10

KnoWeWell 2 Lectio 360

Love + Light Salon

Lyme Connection

The Market

Natural Awakenings Singles

Natural Awakenings Franchise Opportunities 39 Nature’s Temptations

Nature’s Way Health Foods

New Morning Market

Optimal Health Medical/ Henry Sobo, MD

Passport to Health & Wellness Expo 29 Psychic Astrology with Sherry

Robin Ordan, LCSW

Salon Aponte

Sedona Art

5, 12

Soul Healing Journey

Sustainne 13 Touch of Sedona

We Are One/Connie Martin

Wellness Institute/ Marvin Schweitzer, ND

Whole Foods

Whole Health Thermography

For more information, call 203-902-5090, email Support@RajaYogini.com or visit RajaYogini.com. June 2021

news briefs

Sedona Art and The Ridgefield Arts Council’s Make Music Event

ake Music Ridgefield is joining over 1,000 cities worldwide in a global celebration of music inspired by France’s Fête de la Musique on June 21. Sedona Art is making it easy for families and children to “paint to the music” during the Make Music Family Music Event and other musical events scheduled throughout the summer. Sedona Art will make discounted Grab & Go Paint Kits available, which will include everything needed to paint or draw along to the music. All Make Music Ridgefield events are free and open to the public. The “Paint to the Music” children’s event will be held at the Aldrich Museum on June 21, from 2 to 3pm. Kids will have the chance to paint to the music performed by the Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra. Several varieties of the Grab & Go Paint Kits starting at $20 will be available. Each kit will include a canvas or drawing pad, paints (acrylic or watercolor) or colored pencils and paint brushes. Portable easels will also be available at a discount. There will be musical performances for people of all ages during the Make Music Festival and all summer long. Enjoy opportunities to paint and share creative, artistic expression while enjoying time in community, with family and with others. Miles Davis once said, “A painting is music you can see and music is a painting you can hear.” Artists and musicians of all ages are invited to hear the sounds and create the images that move them in the moment. Unlike a typical music festival, Make Music Ridgefield is open to anyone—young and old, amateur and professional, of every musical persuasion. Performers can register on the website at MakeMusicDay.org/Ridgefield. For more information, call 203-438-7146, email SedonaArt06877@gmail.com or visit SedonaArt.net. See ads, pages 5 and 12.

Beginner’s Essential Oils for Men

s a coach in essential oils, massage and meditation, Wayne Leiss helps men connect back to themselves so they can begin the greatest adventure of their lives. “dōTERRA essential oils offer physical benefits and open your senses to explore a new sense of self. With my experience of study and travel, I guide you to find your own path to awareness Wayne Leiss and joy,” he says. Through classes and one-to-one coaching, Leiss guides men to explore how essential oils, combined with massage if desired, can: boost immunity, improve breathing, provide natural support for stress, enhance partner massage techniques, rediscover joy, boost energy levels, increase sound sleep, bring nature into the home, invite abundance and find life direction. “My exploration of the world and 28 years of corporate experience have given me the experience to guide men who love men toward a fuller life. This in turn allows them to develop and stand true to their individual purpose, bringing closer connections with family, friends, business contacts and the world in general,” explains Leiss. “Pride Month is the perfect time to begin or enhance your journey. You are your greatest adventure. Discover yourself.” For more information and to tune in to his weekly webcast on Tuesdays at noon, visit WayneLeiss.com. See ad, page 3. 8

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Online Mediumship Sessions with Dr. Liz

n evidential medium, energy worker, psychic and light trance worker, Dr. Elizabeth Raver, or “Dr. Liz”, is now offering online services so that people can schedule and Elizabeth Raver attend mediumship sessions, classes and/or demonstrations from the convenience of their home. In person, she will also be at the upcoming Holistic Professional Community Fairs in June and July, and thereafter. “Although COVID restrictions are being lifted, it is apparent that online modalities can offer a convenience, safety and flexibility not possible when compared to having to meet in person,” says Raver. “This newfound convenience is a flexible way to help people connect with loved ones who have transitioned via mediumship.” According to Raver, we are presently experiencing a surge of scientific interest focusing on spirituality. “This includes research projects looking at the concept of the afterlife—i.e., that consciousness continues after the change called death. For example, there are increasing numbers of publications in peer-reviewed journals focusing on neardeath experiences, out-of-body experiences, neurological differences with mediums and non-mediums, after-death communications (ADCs) and more,” she explains. “Interestingly, recent findings demonstrate the salutary effect that an ADC experience can have on grief and mourning. This is one of the reasons I have left the academic field—to completely focus on helping people connect with belated loved ones.” With a Ph.D. in Psychology, Raver is writing a book on mediumship by incorporating some of the latest scientific findings. She has been practicing mediumship at Spiritualist groups with her spirit guides, Dr. Randolph and Daisy, for 14 years, giving spirit messages, healing and leading meditations and sermons. For more information, call 203-400-9212, email RavElizabeth516@gmail.com or visit DrLizMedium.com. See ad, page 27.

Embark on a Journey of Deep Soul Transformation

he Academy for Soul Healing is offering Akashic Field Healing Practitioner Training to support participants’ healing and guide them toward discovering their authentic self. The virtual course is for anyone looking to profoundly transform their life, while also learning skills to help others do the same. Training begins on June 23, from 7 to 9 pm EST, via Zoom. Classes will meet every Wednesday for 20 weeks. Wounds from trauma can linger for many years. Trying to navigate healing takes time and effort. Often, we need support. Akashic Field Healing helps us reveal a profound understanding of ourselves and tap into transformational healing. When coordinated with the 13th Octave, a conscious union with the heart of God, we experience unlimited soul expansion. This expansion leads to clearing trauma so we can reach our highest potential. This virtual 20-week course will support participants in unlearning old and broken patterns that are preventing them from reaching their divine potential and living the life they want to live. The course will cover: ways to enhance happiness and joy, prosperity, relationships, love and career goals; the history and growth of Akashic Field Healing; how to connect to one’s Akashic Field to access deep levels of healing; practitioner training and certification; and more. For more information, visit AcademySoulHealing.lpages.co/akashic-field-healing-training. See ad, page 15.

Flanders Holding Field & Forest 5K Trail Run

landers Nature Center & Land Trust will once again host their popular Field & Forest 5K Trail Run, on June 4 at 6pm, at the Flanders Van Vleck Farm & Nature Sanctuary in Woodbury. All ages and skill levels of runners, joggers and walkers are welcome to register to enjoy this 3.1-mile run/walk through the trails and rolling hills of the picturesque nature center. After the race, participants will enjoy live music by the popular local rock band, Scratch, and be able to purchase food from local food trucks and local craft beer from Woodbury Brewing Company. Additionally, Flanders is offering a virtual option to allow participants who cannot attend to still participate from anywhere in the world. The registration fee is $25 for all ages (plus processing fees). Registration closes on June 3 and there will be no same-day race registration. Awards will be given to top male and female finishers overall, as well as in eight age categories ranging from age under 10 to over 60. Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust is a nonprofit organization that focuses on environmental education, and on the acquisition, conservation and stewardship of open space. Flanders manages over 2,400 acres of preserved land in Woodbury and neighboring towns, offering educational programs for children and adults, and public trails at its seven major nature preserves. For more information, call 203-263-3711 or visit FlandersNatureCenter.org/5k. June 2021

event brief

10th Annual Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2021

he 10th Annual Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2021, with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner, will be returning to beautiful Harbor Point at the boardwalk along the waterfront on September 11 and 12, from 11am to 5pm, in Stamford. The expo will focus on helping the community “Revitalize, Reimagine and Reenergize” health and wellness. Parking and admission are free. HWL Expo 2021 will feature: on-site health screenings; 85 exhibitors showcasing and selling health and wellness products and services; free yoga, dance and fitness classes led by the area’s top fitness instructors; and eight different zones showcasing pet wellness, healthy food, restaurants and beverages, eco-friendly wine, spirits and craft beers, and a kids zone featuring fun and educational activities.

Attendees can look forward to exhilarating and interactive classes throughout the weekend with Billy Blanks, Jr. of Dance it Out, as seen on Lifetime Television and featured on Shark Tank. This year’s event will celebrate our healthcare and frontline heroes from Stamford Health, and essential workers from Grade A ShopRite. Two very special Appreciation Art Murals will be unveiled Saturday morning, providing an opportunity for the public to express their gratitude through personal messages to Stamford Health and Grade A ShopRite for their extraordinary care for the community during the pandemic. A Never Forget 9/11 20th Anniversary Ceremony will also take place on September 11. HWL Expo 2021 is hosted by Harbor Point and sponsored by Stamford Health, Key Bank, Cornell University Veterinary Specialists, Sacred Heart University, Stamford Magazine/Moffly Media, The Advocate/Hearst Media Services, News 12 Connecticut, Fairfield County Mom, WEBE 108, Natural Awakenings, Natural Nutmeg, Hey Stamford!, Jen Danzi, Kids Out and About, Macaroni Kid and City of Stamford, community partner. For exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, contact TMK Event Marketing at 203-531-3047 or Tamara@TMK-EventMarketing. com. For more information, visit HWL-Expos.com or Facebook. com/hwlexpo and follow @HWLExpo on Instagram. Location: 1 Harbor Point Rd, Stamford. See ad, page 4.

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global briefs

Gale Force

Blockage Busters

An 800-megawatt project, Vineyard Wind, off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, is awaiting final approval by the Army Corps of Engineers. Laura Daniel Davis, principal deputy assistant secretary of land and minerals at the U.S. Department of the Interior, says, “The demand for offshore wind energy has never been greater. The technological advances, falling costs, increased interest and the tremendous economic potential make offshore wind a really promising avenue.” Some two dozen offshore wind projects are in development along the East Coast. According to the International Energy Agency, wind could provide more than 18 times the world’s present electricity demand and is well-suited to serve heavily populated areas. For instance, almost 40 percent of Americans live near the coasts. Offshore wind power could assist in relieving the dependence on carbon-based sources of electricity and relieve congestion on the grid for Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Houston and Seattle. Offshore turbines are in open waters where wind is strong and abundant. As the technology has matured, the turbines have gotten bigger and further out to sea.

An agreement finalized in November 2020 between farmers, tribes and dam owners will result in the deconstruction of four aging, inefficient dams along the Klamath River in the Pacific Northwest to restore salmon runs that have been in decline. The Karuk and Yurok tribes have relied on the salmon for both sustenance and spiritual wellbeing throughout their history. The project also signals a decline in the hydropower industry, which does not seem as profitable as predicted with the emergence of more cost-effective and sustainable energy sources such as wind and solar. The World Commission on Dams released a report in November 2000 on the enormous financial, environmental and human costs and poor performance of large dams. The commission analyzed dozens of case studies and more than 1,000 testimonies regarding the outcome of trillions of dollars invested in dams. After decades of rapid construction, only 37 percent of the world’s rivers remain free-flowing. River fragmentation has heavily damaged freshwater habitats and fish stocks, threatening food security for millions of people and advancing the decline of other mammals, birds and reptiles.

World’s Largest Dam Removal Project Underway

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halberg/AdobeStock.com

Offshore Wind Power Gaining Momentum

Mischievous Metal

The proposed Thacker Pass lithium mine in northern Nevada, the largest in the U.S., has passed a review by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and construction of mining facilities could begin later this year. But unhappy residents and conservation groups are filing lawsuits. Lithium Nevada expects to pump up to 5,200 acre-feet of groundwater per year, and critics say this may draw down groundwater levels and affect soils, streams and springs. In addition, other expected environmental impacts include groundwater pollution and detrimental impacts to sensitive wildlife. The challenge is to quickly transition the U.S. economy to carbon-free energy sources by acquiring the vast mineral resources needed, such as lithium, cobalt and nickel for batteries, without endangering biodiversity or the health of nearby communities. John Hadder, executive director of Great Basin Resource Watch, one of the environmental nonprofits suing BLM over the Thacker Pass mine, says, “There is a lot of pressure to extract materials for what we consider to be the new energy economy, but we have to do it in a way which isn’t business as usual.” The goal is to get the federal government to do a more thorough review of the project so that the surroundings won’t become an arid, polluted wasteland. June 2021

Luis Gutierrez/NortePhoto.com

Lithium Mining for Electric Vehicles Creating Tension

health briefs

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Four widely used artificial sweeteners— saccharine, sucralose, aspartame and acesulfame potassium— promote the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes in both environmental and clinical settings, report researchers at the University of Queensland, Australia, in The ISME Journal. They found that these four nonnutritive sweeteners promote horizontal transfer of the genes between bacteria, furthering the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes in the intestine. The researchers say the findings provide insight into the spread of antimicrobial resistance and point to a potential risk associated with ingesting the artificial sweeteners.

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Art Supplies Readily Available When Inspiration Strikes!

Nix Sweeteners to Avoid Spreading Antibiotic Resistance

Eat Five Veggies and Fruits Daily to Live Longer People that struggle to eat the often-recommended nine servings of fruit and vegetables each day can relax: The latest research from Harvard, based on 26 studies of 2 million people from 29 countries, found that two and three daily servings of fruit and vegetables, respectively, were linked to the most longevity. Compared to only two servings of produce per day, five servings lowered the risk of death overall by 13 percent, cardiovascular disease by 12 percent, cancer by 10 percent and respiratory disease by 35 percent. Green, leafy vegetables, including spinach, lettuce and kale, and fruit and vegetables rich in beta carotene and vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries and carrots, showed benefits.Starchy vegetables, like peas and corn, fruit juices and potatoes, did not appear to reduce the risk of death.

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Beauty Should Be Good For You And Good For Our Planet, Too!

inspiration

Singing in the Shower

Empower Your Health With Thermography

Having Fun and Experimenting with Voice by Bobbi Soares

hy does singing in the shower make us feel so good? Is it better acoustics, fewer distractions, no audience, no judgement? For most, singing in the shower just feels safe. No one is listening. That’s why it’s important to practice humming or singing in a safe place, preferably alone. Practicing new vocal techniques in the comfort and safety of a shower or other solitary place can be a powerful exercise. It is important not to be judgmental of ourselves or others for sounding silly or trying something new. What if a little kid were hearing this judgment? They possibly would never be able to play or experiment with their voice again. To encourage playing and practicing new vocal techniques, I wrote and recorded “Funny Voice”, because it’s alright to play and sing like a kid again. Sing along to the words below, trying out new sounds and techniques to exercise those vocal cords.

Funny Voice

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May not like this funny voice, this funny voice, this funny voice May not like this funny voice, but it’s OK (2x) I just love this funny voice, this funny voice, this funny voice I just love this funny voice, but it’s OK (2x) It’s OK for these funny sounds, these funny sounds, these funny sounds It’s all right for these funny sounds, but it’s OK ‘Cause I love you anyway, anyway Going to love you anyway, I just love you anyway It’s OK, you’re OK, we’re OK Going to love you anyway (Vamp) Barbara “Bobbi” Soares is a certified sound healing coach and vocal yoga practitioner in New Milford. She hosts Gong Sound Journeys on Thursdays, bimonthly at 6pm; reservations required. For more information on “Funny Voice” classes, call 860-946-9470 or find Hummingbird Sound Yoga on Facebook. See ad, page 9. June 2021 13

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hat’s not to love about practicing yoga with the whole family? Well, at first it might seem like a great idea, but then children may begin to roll themselves up in a yoga mat, fling themselves into their siblings, bicker that they are standing too close to each other and complain that their brother’s Ujjayi breath smells like feet. That is how it may often appear in the beginning, but some stories teach us exactly how to deal with these moments in time, and such is the story of Berta, and her journey of trying to raise three boys in a yoga studio. Berta started practicing yoga many, many years ago, while also raising her three little boys as a single mother. It began with her trying to find some quiet time when the boys were occupied. It was important for her to find a meditative spot and work on her “OM”. This lasted all of three minutes. Just as she began to contemplate the universal life force energy that flows through us all, just as she seemed to arrive toward within arms’ reach of Nirvana, her

Practicing Yoga as a Family by Berta Prevosti

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6-year-old son, Mingo, would burst into the room and say, “What are you doing? You’re doing yoga without me!” Berta was dumbfounded by his reaction. Since she had, just moments ago, occupied a sincere moment of Zen, it would be hard to contemplate any form of annoyance as a reaction, but before another moment could pass, the inspired little boy turned on his heels and ran out of the room. He could be heard running across the hall, and frantically searching for something in his room. He would return dressed in his “yoga” clothes along with a matching bandana. He had his yoga face on and was ready to practice. That was the first moment the young mother had ever seen a glimpse at how good it could be to include her children into her yoga life. She had always considered this time to be hers, and hers alone, but she was wrong. We say we “practice” yoga a lot in the yoga world, but Berta learned something very different about practicing yoga that day. Her son joined her, he was present and they were silent in their new practice. It was beautiful.

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His brothers showed up a few minutes later, jumping into headstands and handstands and, while completely unfocused as far as a “practice” goes, were simply being little boys. Mingo tried to be a serious yogi about it but eventually they all laughed and tumbled as they “practiced” being a family. They practiced laughing, they practiced yoga and they practiced living. This would be one of many moments left to hindsight, as who among us could possibly know how precious those moments would one day be? Now, nearly 20 years later, Berta’s three sons are all grown, and Mingo—forever and always her little boy—teaches and helps his family’s practice grow with the same enthusiasm he showed when he first walked in and saw his mom flipped over on her head in the living room. The only difference is that he doesn’t “practice” yoga with his mother any longer—he lives it, and he breathes it. Berta Prevosti offers online yoga and meditation through her new studio platform, RajaYogini.com, which offers online classes in meditation, yoga, yoga teacher training programs, certifications, workshops, retreats and metaphysical studies for as low as $9.99 a month. Connect at 203-902-5090 and RajaYogini.com.

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community spotlight

AmpCoil

Using PEMF and Bioresonance to Bounce Back from Lyme Disease

by Michelle Bense

or many, having Lyme disease is an ongoing, perplexing struggle to manage a variety of symptoms and pains, alongside the growing costs associated with it. Lyme disease can impact so many systems in the body at once, making its management a full-time job. It can be difficult to isolate any one symptom, determine its cause, then treat it effectively. Because of this, Lyme sufferers often feel they’ve “tried it all”. Freddie Kimmel was in that place in 2018 when he decided to try one more thing—AmpCoil, a cutting-edge pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) technology that works with the energetic body. “I had Lyme for 20 years, had metastatic cancer at 26, then had mold exposure,” explains Kimmel. “I had tried drugs and pharmaceuticals and 16

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

didn’t feel better. I was kind of desperate.” A certified health coach, personal trainer and Reiki healer, Kimmel happened upon a YouTube video of a podcast that talked about the AmpCoil and he was so moved, he says, “I just pulled out my credit card.” While it may have been a quick decision, it turned out to be a life-changing one. “I had an amazing experience. In four months, my energy was through the roof. I felt inspired.” Today, Kimmel runs sales and marketing for AmpCoil, as well as the education department, AmpCoil Academy, which includes a nine-part video series that teaches new users and ambassadors how to use the equipment. How does the AmpCoil work? AmpCoil is a sophisticated sound frequency delivery system that combines PEMF eNaturalAwakenings.com

and bioresonance or sound therapy. It consists of a tablet attached to a highend audio amplifier, which is connected to an electromagnetic coil that is placed on the body. The amplifier combines the sound frequencies from the tablet, passing through the coil to the EMF. “What we’re creating is a bio-acoustic magnetic field about four feet in diameter. It’s a wholebody field enveloping the human being in sound and magnetics,” Kimmel explains. “When we talk about PEMF, the simplified way to say it is that PEMF can help with inflammation, microcirculation, fatigue, chronic pain and helps cells breathe better. Bioresonance could open a detox pathway. With Lyme, people struggle with eliminating toxins. When they detoxify, they feel better,” Kimmel says. “AmpCoil allows the body to function as nature intended. The body moves into a natural state of healing. Even in a few months, we see the nervous system move toward recovery phase.” Kimmel likes to use analogies to help people better understand this technology. “A nice analogy is: everything is sound. Everything has a different oscillating pattern. If all the tissues in my body are all different sound, we can start to imagine ourselves as an orchestra. When we are healthy, we’re playing a beautiful song. When I fall into a state of disease, certain areas are out of tune,” he says. “AmpCoil is looking at the orchestra and seeing that the tuba is flat; instead of kicking the tuba out, we’re helping it get back in tune.” Unlike an actual orchestra, the amplifier is operating at a frequency that we cannot hear with our ears, so the AmpCoil sessions are actually relaxing. Kimmel says that some people can feel it working in different areas throughout their bodies, while others feel very little during the session. As for session frequency, he recommends about three times per week, 75 minutes per day. AmpCoil works through entrainment, reminding the body of the right frequency—much like when we train ourselves through working out, practicing yoga or learning a new language. While AmpCoil can and has helped people with many ailments and issues, Kimmel

says they think of it in terms of working with the energetic body, rather than with disease. “The technology is known for helping people with multiple systems offline— mold, Lyme, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, Epstein-Barr,” he says. In a person struggling with Lyme disease specifically, there is so much going on at once. “It’s rare that a person only has Lyme. Usually, they also discover they have heavy metal toxicity, Epstein-Barr, mold, chronic fatigue, severe sleep disturbances, anxiety, bone pain. People go broke treating Lyme,” explains Kimmel. “AmpCoil supports the whole body and the energetic body.” There are programs in the AmpCoil software specifically for people going through Lyme, so ambassadors know what session to play in what order. “I think the founding team of software engineers were very empathetic to people suffering with Lyme.” While purchasing the AmpCoil system for home use may be an initial investment, Kimmel says, “Many people have a great response with it and become ambassadors of the technology.” Through the AmpCoil Ambassador program, they are trained extensively on how to use the technology to support people with all kinds of imbalances in the body, how to track progress and more. Ambassadors all over the country participate in monthly support calls, training and connection. Locally in the Fairfield area, there are about 20 ambassadors who are trained to provide AmpCoil sessions, including Kimmel’s good friend Cathy Whelehan. The two bonded over their mutual, great responses after buying AmpCoils out of need, then experiencing life-changing results. Whelehan now has several AmpCoils available for sessions at Open Sky Yoga Barn, in Redding. So, how much does this life-changing technology cost? According to Kimmel, AmpCoil is much more cost effective than most other Lyme treatments. “We have so many creative ways to purchase and many financing options,” he says. “For example, someone with decent credit could purchase their own system for less than $150 a month. Most people spend $1,000 a month on supplements with Lyme.”

Freddie Kimmel

Cathy Whelehan

Of course, not everyone has to dive right in to owning their own AmpCoil. Sessions can cost between $40 and $100 each, depending on the location. Try a few sessions, and if it’s as impactful as it has been for people like Kimmel and Whelehan, it may be worth it to bring one home. “It’s really meant to be in the home. I think the magic happens when people have it in the home,” enthuses Kimmel. Kimmel says the best thing about his role with AmpCoil is listening to people’s stories. “Being able to be on a monthly support call with dozens of people sharing how their lives have changed and

how things have shifted because they’ve embraced AmpCoil as something to support their wellness—it’s incredible.” While a chronic disease such as Lyme can be full of frustration and hardship, Kimmel says, “The AmpCoil is reminding the body through resonant frequencies, ‘You can do this.’” Connect with Freddie Kimmel at Freddie@AmpCoil.com and learn more at AmpCoil.com. See ad, back cover. Michelle Bense is a writer and editor for Natural Awakenings magazines. Connect at EditorMichelleBense@gmail.com.

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5 NATURAL TOXIN BINDERS Every Lyme Patient Needs to Know

esides treating symptoms and the disease itself, most chronic Lyme patients understand the importance of ridding the body of toxins generated from killing bacteria. Other toxins may also be present in the body from heavy metals, mycotoxins (from mold), normal metabolism or from the environment itself. The point is, in order to give the body a chance to heal properly, these toxins must be removed in a way that does not disrupt our system. This is where toxin binders can be helpful. A toxin binder is a supplement that can attach itself to a toxic substance and render it harmless, while escorting it out of the body through the digestive or urinary tract. However, they are not all the same and it is important to understand the best one to use to help with an individual’s particular health issues.

Activated Charcoal

This charcoal is similar to common charcoal (derived from peat, coal, wood or coconut shells), but it is made especially for medicinal

Side effects/concerns: Activated charcoal is safe for most adults when used short-term. However, long-term use can cause constipation and black stools. It should always be taken at least an hour away from food or vitamin supplementation to avoid it binding with them and rendering them ineffective.

Bentonite Clay

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use. It becomes “activated” during a process where it is heated in the presence of a gas that causes the charcoal to develop an abundance of internal spaces or pores. Activated charcoal can be used to treat poisonings, reduce intestinal gas, lower cholesterol levels, prevent hangover and treat bile flow problems (cholestasis) during pregnancy. It is also effective at removing most toxins generated from a die-off reaction during Lyme treatment.

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

This clay is composed of ash made from volcanoes, the largest known source being in Fort Benton, Wyoming, where numerous volcanoes are present and where this particular clay gets its name. Because the clay requires no modern processing, it has become a popular and costeffective way of detoxing the body. Unlike eNaturalAwakenings.com

activated charcoal that binds with toxins physically, Bentonite clay binds with toxins electrically. When the clay touches any type of fluid (normally water), it takes on a different charge, causing it to bind to substances with a different charge. Through this reaction, the clay is able to help remove toxins, chemicals, impurities and heavy metals from the gut, skin and mouth. The clay can be ingested to remove internal toxins or used on the skin to heal bug bites, acne, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. It can also be added to a bath to remove toxins transdermally. Side effects/concerns: The FDA rates bentonite as “generally regarded as safe” as a food additive, but it can be harmful if inhaled or exposed to eyes. Bentonite clay should be taken at least an hour away from food or supplement intake. Do not use metal spoons or allow metal objects to come in contact with the clay, as metal can change the clay’s electrical charge and render it less effective.

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by Gregg Kirk

Side effects/concerns: In rare cases, chlorella may cause swelling of the face or tongue, sensitivity to sunlight, digestive upset, acne, fatigue, lethargy, headaches, vertigo and shaking. Patients who are allergic to iodine or have been prescribed Coumadin or Warfarin should consult with their physician.

This carbonized bamboo (finely-ground bamboo charcoal) is well known in Japan, but is just now becoming familiar in the U.S. It is known to bind with heavy metals, toxic chemicals and can help alleviate food sensitivities. It also adsorbs mycotoxins and endotoxins and helps facilitate liver and kidney function. Because of the porous nature of the bamboo, it is an amazing absorber of toxins—up to 10 times stronger than activated charcoal. Research from Japan claims it emits far infrared rays (thus improving circulation) as well as negative ions, and it shields the body from electromagnetic fields. Side effects/concerns: Patients suffering from variegate porphyria should avoid use of Takesumi Supreme. It should be taken at least two hours away from supplements, food and medications.

Zeolite

This is a volcanic silica mineral with a microscopic crystalline structure that can trap toxins at the molecular level. It has an uncanny ability to absorb and exchange different chemicals, nutrients, toxins and ions according to the body’s

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needs. Since the body doesn’t absorb the zeolite, the pollutants it attaches to are safely removed when it is washed off the skin or sent through the digestive tract. Zeolite can withstand extremely high temperatures, is not dissolved by stomach or gastric acids and is not water soluble or fat soluble, which is why it can pass through the body completely intact, with toxins in tow. Like Bentonite clay, Zeolite may be used on the skin to absorb toxins transdermally or it can be ingested.

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This is a blue-green algae (like its cousin spirulina) that can be found in Taiwan and Japan. It is also known to be a superfood rich in phytonutrients, including amino acids, chlorophyll, beta-carotene, potassium, phosphorous, biotin, magnesium and the B-complex vitamins. Studies have shown that chlorella benefits the entire body by supporting healthy hormone function, cardiovascular health, negating some of the effects of chemotherapy and radiation, and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. One of chlorella’s most significant health benefits is that it attaches to heavy metal toxins in our bodies such as lead, cadmium, mercury and uranium, and keeps them from being reabsorbed or being stored in our body’s soft tissues. Chlorella’s high levels of chlorophyll have been shown to protect the body against ultraviolet radiation treatments while removing radioactive particles from the body.

Takesumi Supreme

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Chlorella

Side effects/concerns: Zeolite powder can be harmful if inhaled or exposed to eyes. Do not use metal spoons or allow metal objects to come in contact with zeolite because metal can change its electrical charge and render it less effective. Gregg Kirk is an author, energy healer and Lyme disease advocate who runs a clinic in Darien, where he incorporates herbal treatments to help patients with Lyme disease. Connect at LymeRecoveryClinic.com and GreggKirk.com. See ad, page 3.

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TOUCHED BY LYME Excerpt of Chronic, Long-Awaited Book Tackling ‘Lyme-Plus’ by Dorothy Kupcha Leland • book excerpt by Steven Phillips and Dana Parish

hronic: The Hidden Cause of the Autoimmune Pandemic and How to Get Healthy Again is a long-awaited book by Dr. Steven Phillips and Dana Parish. The co-authors—a prominent Lyme disease doctor and a singer/songwriter/advocate who used to be his patient—are well known in the Lyme community. So, it’s initially curious that the book title doesn’t mention the words “Lyme disease”. But that’s explained early on. In their text, Phillips and Parish use the term “Lyme plus” for the dizzying constellation of microbes that can result in a wide variety of persistent symptoms and autoimmune conditions. Lyme disease (by itself) may be only one part of the complex picture. Chronic is divided into two main sections. The first part, “The Root”, debunks commonly held myths about Lyme+ and shows how mainstream medicine has so often gotten its facts wrong. The second part, “The Remedy”, offers practical advice on how to get properly diagnosed and looks at an assortment of treatments that may be useful. The following excerpt from the book is taken from the chapter called “The Myths That Get in the Way”. (This passage includes two myths. The chapter explores many more.)

MYTH: Long-term antibiotic therapy for Lyme is an unproven treatment that’s highly dangerous. FACT: Of course, we want to minimize risks to patients from treatments and maximize benefits. Therapies for most serious diseases can have serious side effects, but the risk of fatality from long-term antibiotic therapy is quite low. Far more deaths have been caused by Lyme+ than by its treatment. The risk of fatal outcomes in the treatment of inflammatory diseases with immunosuppressive agents, and cancer with chemotherapy, is far higher than for antibiotic therapy, but the difference in those diseases is that they are accepted by the CDC as legitimate, therefore the risk is deemed justifiable. But high rates of treatment failures using short-term antibiotic therapy are well documented in the medical literature. It has been clearly demonstrated in study after study 20

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

eNaturalAwakenings.com

that short-term antibiotics are simply not effective in many cases. This, coupled with published research proving bacterial persistence despite short-term antibiotics, makes the case for longer treatments until better treatments come along. One of the earlier case reports revealing how Lyme disease can survive antibiotic treatment was published by the University of Chicago’s Journal of Infectious Diseases in 1988. A group of Swiss scientists successfully grew B. burgdorferi from joint fluid three months after a fifteen-year-old girl was treated for Bell’s palsy (facial paralysis) due to Lyme disease. She’d been bitten by a tick in Austria but experienced none of the typical symptoms—no rash, malaise, fever, or musculoskeletal pain. It wasn’t until one side of her face drooped that doctors suspected Lyme, after which she underwent the conventional, two-week antibiotic treatment. After initially improving, she relapsed a couple of months later, developing sudden, unexplainable arthritis in her right knee. Her doctors finally found B. burgdorferi in her joint fluid and ordered another round of antibiotics, concluding that a two-week course of antibiotics for Lyme was inadequate. In 1993, a more dramatic report was published out of the Department of Medicine at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Aurora, Colorado. There, a twenty-four-yearold patient with Lyme arthritis continued to relapse when the antibiotics were stopped. Despite years of oral and IV antibiotics, the researchers found B. burgdorferi in the patient’s joint tissue and joint fluid—proof again that the bacteria can escape the assault of antibiotics. But the IDSA guidelines fail to take studies like these into account. To understand the importance of considering novel treatments to address complicated health challenges—in this case, long-term anti-microbial therapy for Lyme+—it helps to consider other areas in medicine where out-of-the-box thinking eventually revolutionized the field, but only after hard-won battles. It was long thought, for example, that stomach ulcers were caused by diet and stress, for which bland foods, antacids, and meditation were prescribed, without benefits. Such patients went on to suffer, some requiring surgery, and some dying from

bleeding ulcers or stomach cancer. In 1982, the Australian physicians Robin Warren and Barry Marshall found a link between Helicobacter pylori infection and ulcers, concluding that the bacteria—not spicy foods and a mean boss—were to blame. In 1983, they presented a paper to the Australian Gastroenterological Society, but never finished their presentation because they were laughed off the stage. Barry Marshall took drastic steps. He had a baseline endoscopy of his stomach performed, which was normal, and then drank a batch of H. pylori. Soon after, he developed severe gastritis that was documented by another endoscopy. He then took antibiotics, which resolved his condition, documented again by endoscopy. It was because of this desperate tactic that Marshall and Warren were able to turn around medical dogma within fifteen years, which is light speed for a complete about-face in medical doctrine. In the past, other physicians had tried to change medical dogma but couldn’t break through the medical community’s wall of arrogance. For example, in 1940, Dr. A. Stone Freedberg, of Harvard, found the spiral-shaped

bacteria in the stomachs of ulcer patients, but wasn’t believed. In 1946, Dr. Constance Guion presented a paper on treating stomach ulcers with the antibiotic chlortetracycline, but her colleagues at Cornell Medical School denounced her so mercilessly that she ditched her thoughts of treating ulcers with antibiotics. And then there was John Lykoudis, a physician from a small town in Greece, who developed a bleeding ulcer and cured himself with antibiotics. Since they worked for him, he treated his ulcer patients with antibiotics too, and found they were effective. He soon had patients flying in from all over the world to have him treat their stomach ulcers with antibiotics. In the 1950s, he presented his work to professors at several Greek medical schools but was met with laughter. He then contacted the Greek minister of health, the prime minister of Greece, and eventually the chairmen of the department of medicine at Athens Medical School, to no avail. He was treated like a pariah. Unable to get his work published, he died without vindication, never getting to see Drs. Marshall and Warren win the 2005 Nobel Prize for their discovery.*

The state of medical dogma today regarding Lyme+ is worse than it was for stomach ulcers before Marshall and Warren took the stage. The Lyme+ doctrine is similarly based on obsolete, erroneous data, but far more riddled with financial conflicts of interest, as follows: 1. Big Pharma sells few cures, but it sells lots of bandages—very expensive bandages that require lifelong refills. No pharmaceutical company is interested in finding the cause of autoimmune disease and eradicating it. That wouldn’t be profitable. 2. Obsolete, inaccurate Lyme blood tests still bring in big money for their patent holders, so why would they want to

June 2021 21

improve them? Why not just control the conversation, keep saying that they work fine? 3. The now defunct Lyme vaccine lined the pockets of certain physician researchers who continue to espouse the same medical doctrine that was required to get its FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approval (perhaps in the hopes that it would clear the way for a second Lyme vaccine). The belief that Lyme is easy to diagnose and easy to cure was a necessary prerequisite for vaccine approval because administering the Lyme vaccine to someone who still harbors B. burgdorferi in their body could be dangerous. *In 1997, the CDC, with other government agencies, academic institutions, and the medical industry, launched a national education campaign to inform health care providers and consumers about the causal link between H. pylori and ulcers. Until word got out, millions suffered needlessly, including family members of our own, having no idea that their cure was an inexpensive prescription away. At the time the national education campaign spread the news, nearly 90 percent of patients were still subscribing to the old dogma and relentlessly popping antacids and avoiding their favorite foods to no avail.

MYTH: The medical establishment has no idea what causes Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome or what the best treatment for it is. FACT: If you’ve been dealing with chronic Lyme+, then chances are you’ve heard this statement. As previously noted, PTLDS is a misleading term given the wealth of published information that these organisms can persist—and indeed continue to thrive—despite drugs that were initially thought to kill them but don’t. It’s an illogical construct. Think about it: What are the chances that a second disease of mysterious origins (i.e., PTLDS or an autoimmune disease), but with the same symptoms as the first disease, would come and replace the first disease? What are the odds, in light of

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

published evidence that the pathogens that cause the first disease survive after both short- and long-term antibiotics? Consider also that there are numerous other chronic bacterial infections that require long-term combination antibiotic therapies: tuberculosis, leprosy, chronic coxiella, brucellosis, and Whipple’s disease, to name a few, some of which are included in what we term Lyme+. Many of the other members of Lyme+ are no different and should be included in the same category. The consequence of referring to patients with persistent symptoms of Lyme disease after a short course of antibiotics as having Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome is a fait accompli, in that such patients, now desperately searching for answers on the CDC website, may feel that antibiotics can’t possibly help them. You may already believe this if you’ve ever gone to the CDC’s website. But if someone with Lyme+ is led down the path of PTLDS, this will only delay care further and increase the likelihood of subsequent antibiotic treatment failure. Late-stage Lyme+ is difficult to treat. Because semantics guide patient care, we believe the term PostTreatment Lyme Disease Syndrome is harmful, and in some cases fatal, and it should not be used. Excerpted from Chronic: The Hidden Cause of the Autoimmune Pandemic and How to Get Healthy Again © 2020 by Steven Phillips, MD, and Dana Parish. Reproduced by permission of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. All rights reserved. This book can be ordered in print, e-book and audio formats on Amazon.com. Dorothy Kupcha Leland is LymeDisease.org’s Vice-president and Director of Communications. She is co-author of When Your Child Has Lyme Disease: A Parent’s Survival Guide. Connect at DLeland@LymeDisease.org. To learn more about local Lyme Disease rsources, visit Lyme Connection at LymeConnection.org. See ad, this page.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

wise words

Andria Somers on Being United for Better Parenting

ndria Somers is the executive director of the Holistic Moms Network (HMN), which connects families interested in positive, holistic parenting, health and green living, providing them with helpful information and other support. The organization was formed in Essex County, New Jersey, in 2002 by a handful of mothers seeking to associate with others sharing the same goals. One of the moms, Nancy Peplinski, decided to expand the vision of the informal group and established it as a nonprofit in 2003. Rapid growth made apparent the need for community support of naturally minded families across the country. In its first year of operation, HMN evolved from a local group to a nationwide organization with more than 25 chapters in 14 states. Founded on the cornerstones of community and connection, the mission of HMN is to provide a safe, supportive environment in which families can access resources and experience camaraderie in attaining natural living and gentle parenting.

How has HMN impacted your life? I attended my first HMN meeting in 2012, after my oldest daughter was born. I became a member after learning about the organization and all that they offered. That was a life-changing moment for me. HMN very quickly became a central aspect of my

mothering journey. I joined the national team in November of 2012, and my role evolved to executive director in 2017. Parenting has been my most transformative experience thus far, and HMN inspires me every day on this journey with all that its volunteers, members and advocates give as far as support, knowledge, ideas and most importantly, community.

What is holistic parenting?

Holistic parenting begins with an understanding and respect for how all living things are connected and how we impact one another. Holistic parenting embraces green and non-toxic living, non-violent communication and natural health. We believe there are seven guiding principles for holistic parenting which we follow: make informed and educated parenting decisions; seek respectful and nurturing relationships with others; actively participate in one’s own healing process; balance and integrate physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of being; teach children how to respect and care about the natural world; limit children’s exposure to advertising, marketing and a consumer-driven culture; and live more simply and consume less.

yet on this journey together. Members are encouraged to respect one another’s views, offer support and learn from each other. HMN wants to generate national awareness, education and support for holistic parenting and green living. Our groups meet about once a month in a public venue where all are welcome. We provide nurturing, open-minded and respectful local community networks that encourage families to share these ideals and learn from each other.

What advice would you offer to a new parent just beginning their journey of holistic parenting?

As a parent, it’s important to have a network of support. Being connected to like-minded individuals who do not judge makes all the difference in the world. It truly does take a village to raise a child, and you can choose how you build your village. There will be countless people offering advice, so be discerning and see what resonates with you. I truly believe that we are all here to help and support one another. HMN is a way to build relationships and connect with other parents to form friendships that last a lifetime.

How does HMN differ from other parenting groups?

For more information, including on becoming a member, visit HolisticMoms.org.

The heart and soul of HMN is to connect families through volunteer-led chapters and intentional communities across the country. We are authentic, passionate about our purpose and committed to our mission. HMN is how we bring together local parents for support and join our voices as a national community. We recognize that everyone is on their own path,

This article was written by a KnoWEwell (KWW) staff member. Holistic Moms Network and Natural Awakenings are collaborative partners of KWW, a benefits and services company that operates the global Regenerative Whole Health community and marketplace platform KnoWEwell.com. See ad, page 2. June 2021 23

positive psychology series

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In this series, we’ll hear from Ann C. Reeves about aspects of Positive Psychology. This month, she continues with the “A” of the Positive Psychology acronym, PERMA-V.

Accomplishment/ Achievement

The A in Positive Psychology by Ann C. Reeves

ositive Psychology (PP) is the scientific study of optimal human functioning, and its research encompassing neurobehavioral, cognitive behavioral and physiological science. The acronym used in PP is PERMA-V. A stands for Achievement or Accomplishment, another doorway to achieve greater positivity, wholeness and deep contentment. While accomplishment and achievement are synonyms, there are subtle differences, so both terms are included. Accomplishment includes the concepts of skill, talent and completion—perhaps a more internal process than Achievement, where success may be more external. Can you remember a time when you feel you accomplished something? It may be as easy as cleaning out an old, cluttered closet, deciding to go to graduate school or losing those 20 pounds. Accomplishment and Achievement are often private matters—no one needs to know what we have achieved except for us, to feel good about ourselves. It is also true that public achievement is an ego booster, but not necessary to gain some positivity. Researchers Edward Deci and Richard Ryan developed the self-determination theory, positing that intrinsic motivation to achieve is dependent on three basic needs: autonomy, competence and relatedness. Locus of control is a term that refers to the degree to which an individual feels a sense of agency in regard to their life. 24

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

An internal locus of control is the belief that whatever we do has a direct effect on the outcomes in our life. Success and failure results from our own actions, so that when we fail, we try to improve. An external locus of control is the belief that forces outside us affect our choices and our future. Thus, when something doesn’t work out, they tend to blame others rather than look at their own behavior. Persons with an internal locus of control have been found to develop greater cognitive flexibility, more creativity, an enhanced depth of processing, added positivity and greater physical and psychological well-being. These beliefs can be related to our upbringing and social environment. Three conditions in parenting style are seen to encourage autonomy, and therefore self-determination, in our children. These styles are: providing choices in everyday life, offering informational feedback rather than criticism as a disciplinary technique and promoting a feeling of unconditional relatedness without disapproval, in order to encourage safe exploration by the child. Parenting that produces decisionmaking through control, power and guilt undermines true self-determination and autonomy. Motivation is weakened when parents threaten negative consequences rather than asking a child to consider what other behaviors they might have tried. A child’s sense of intrinsic autonomy is enhanced when their performance is evaluated in a descriptive manner such as “I saw you working so hard,” “Look at the interesting way you drew that part,” or “You did it!” Evaluations of behavior or some kind of effort as either “good” or “bad” undermines autonomy. Self-esteem is not the same as self-efficacy. The former is about feeling good about oneself, often influenced by the presence or lack of praise by teachers and parents. Self-efficacy is more adaptive to ultimately gaining a sense of accomplishment. One can think, “I feel good about my strengths. I know I can do this with hard work.” Such beliefs are related to another topic in positive psychology—a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset. Accompanied by a growth mindset, self-efficacy has been found to be positively correlated with the achievement

of goals, feelings of well-being and effective problem solving. The lack of experiencing self-efficacy is positively correlated to increased depression and anxiety. But who doesn’t struggle with maintaining personal goals? Much is written about goals and objectives, and positive psychology wisdom posits that if goals are consistent with one’s values, there is more satisfaction than if goals are arbitrary. A helpful way to determine one’s values is through The Values in Action Institute, found at AuthenticHappiness.sas.upenn. edu. Failure to meet our goals is often related to an impulsive, haphazard and sometimes unrealistic declaration of intent. SMART goals, devised by Peter Drucker, can be a helpful guide. This theory posits that in order to be attainable, a goal needs to be Specific. This means well-defined and clear to everyone. M is for Measurable. One must devise criteria that defines exactly when the goal has been achieved or how far away from completion it is. A is Agreed upon and Attainable. If anyone else is involved in this goal, all agree what the

goal should be. R stands for Realistic. Any goal must be within reach given the skills, resources and time available. T is for Timely. It is helpful to establish a timeframe and an end-point. If there is a long-term goal, it helps to break it into several shorter ones, as short-term, micro-goals are most attainable. There are several ways to enhance goal-setting. One important way is to set primers. These are things that we place in our external environment to help us to remember to do what we say we want to do—unconscious or conscious cues that are paired together to create behavioral change. They include to-do lists, Post-it notes, inspirational sayings put up on the bathroom mirror or using buddies to remind us. The effect of primers on creating change or meeting goals has been studied and found to have a positive effect on employee performance. Visualization is another kind of primer. Actively imagining or visualizing our success on our goal encourages positive results, and this intervention is used frequently in sports psychology to enhance

success. Those who enjoy being artistic can create a vision board, where they either write, draw or construct collages on a piece of stiff cardboard or wood, using priming words or images, cutouts from magazines or original artwork to manifest that which we want to embody in our life. Listening to special songs that have meaning, TED Talks or podcasts that inspire us can also serve as primers. When we want to accomplish something large or small, positive psychology offers numerous tools to enhance our toolkit and prevent us from sabotaging the very goals we are seeking. Ann C. Reeves, Psy.D is a Licensed Psychologist in Wilton. Connect at 203-4516208, AnnReevesPsych@optonline.net or AnnReevesPsychology.com.

Read the last article in this PERMA-V series, focusing on the V for Vitality, in the July issue.

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healthy kids

Natural Mama Holistic Approaches to a Healthy Pregnancy

by Julie Peterson

uring her first pregnancy, Sarah Wallace, a former registered nurse in Atlanta, was chronically anemic. “I was so tired I would fall asleep while I was eating dinner,” she says. That pregnancy resulted in a baby with a low birth weight. Fortunately, Wallace learned more about nutrition and wellness. Her now 4-year-old has caught up to the growth charts and is thriving, and her next pregnancy went smoothly. No matter how pregnancy is counted—280 days, 40 weeks or three trimesters— mama and baby share blood, nutrition and air for the duration. “Taking a holistic path before and during pregnancy is about embracing the nature of our bodies and committing to maintaining all aspects of wellness during this journey,” says Nancy Peplinsky, founder of the Holistic Moms Network, based in Caldwell, New Jersey.

Nutrition for Two The right foods nourish the growing baby, the placenta and the mother’s increasing blood volume, maintaining the mother’s body during the complex mission. Whole foods rather than processed are best. The Whole 9 Months: A Week-By-Week Pregnancy Nutrition Guide with Recipes for a Healthy Start, by integrative obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) Jennifer Lang and dietitian Dana Angelo White, makes it easier to select the proper nutrients along the way and provides ways to deal with nausea and cravings. Choose organic foods when possible to reduce exposures to pesticides. If organic isn’t an option for every food, The Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, from the Environmental Working Group (ewg.org), can be downloaded and taken to the market. Either avoid foods on the “Dirty Dozen” list or go organic for those items. 26

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eNaturalAwakenings.com

A high-quality prenatal vitamin fills nutrition gaps. Wallace saw a difference between her first and second pregnancy by switching brands. “The first time, I took generic prenatal vitamins. With the second pregnancy, I found whole-food supplements. I never got that exhaustion, and my second baby was a healthy weight,” she says. “Research has shown that healthy nutrition during pregnancy improves outcomes for mom and baby, while unhealthy food choices can lead to premature childbirth, high-risk pregnancies and poor developmental outcomes in children,” says Peplinsky. In addition to clean food, it’s important to reevaluate body care products and household cleaners for toxicity. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has linked personal care and cleaning product ingredients to endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive disorders, neurotoxicity and cancer.

Body Love Kristen Burgess, in Fife Lake, Michigan, creator of the website NaturalBirthAnd BabyCare.com, teaches classes for momsto-be. “[Exercise] helps your blood volume increase, brings plenty of oxygen to your baby, increases your stamina and endurance for labor (which is an athletic event), and perhaps best of all, keeps you feeling great,” she writes in her blog. Options such as stretching, walking and prenatal yoga can be soothing for mom and baby. Burgess also advocates prenatal belly dancing to raise the heart rate “while bonding with your baby and relishing your beautiful pregnant form.” Peplinsky notes, “A holistic approach to pregnancy also embraces integrative therapies such as meditation, yoga, acupuncture and chiropractic, which may assist in reducing stress, minimizing physical discomfort and joint pain, while improving overall life quality for mom and baby.”

Support Along the Way A healthy pregnancy includes assistance. In the U.S., most women choose an OB-GYN, with just over 9 percent of 2017 births incorporating a midwife to support the mother before, during and sometimes after birth. A

midwife is medically trained and, depending on state law, may offer gynecological examinations, birth control counseling and prescriptions. On her own or as an assistant to a doctor, she coaches the mother during labor and assists with the delivery, which may be in a home, birthing center or hospital. The American College of NurseMidwives, in Silver Spring, Maryland, offers a midwife locator. Another option is engaging a doula that focuses on emotional support for mom, her partner and the family during pregnancy and birth. During labor, she may offer massage, encouragement and breathing coaching. While doulas only provide non-medical care, they can offer evidence-based resources to inform decisionmaking. There is a database to find one at DoulaMatch.net. There are also books and apps to provide week-to-week details on pregnancy. Genevieve Howland, a childbirth educator in Destin, Florida, and author of The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth, offers a weekly article at MamaNatural. com about what’s going on with the developing baby and mother. “Being a holistic mom is about connecting the mind, body and spirit, and approaching wellness with all three in mind,” adds Peplinsky. “The more we listen to our instincts and our needs, the more our health improves during childbearing and afterwards.” Julie Peterson writes about health and wellness. Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Apps

cottonbro/Pexels.com

Tracking exercise, nutrition, baby bump images, the joys of the journey and the baby’s development are available options in a variety of apps. There are even apps for dads. Ovia has many features that expand based on the data entered. It answers questions about food safety and medications, and even has a community feature to connect with other moms.

Hello Belly offers practical tips and a good dose of silliness with pregnancy jokes and memes. There are also yoga videos. Glow Nurture can be customized, has community spaces, symptom trackers, reminders for appointments and a boatload of articles. Expectful Pregnancy gives reminders to focus on joy by taking a moment to breathe or meditate. With guided sessions for pregnancy, moms-to-be can put regular meditation practices in place. Sprout Pregnancy has a pregnancy timeline, weight tracker and journal. The 3-D images showing development of the baby are really cool, as well. Who’s Your Daddy gives Dad a to-do list, weekly updates, a development timeline, suggestions for taking care of Mom and helps him pick baby names.

HCP

Holistic Community Professionals

Our professional team of holistic and natural businesses provides community outreach and education. We are committed to improving the health and wellness of body, mind, and spirit in the communities we serve. Crystal/Sound/White Time Bradford Tilden, Universal White Time Energy, Gemstone and Sound Healing, Distance Healing Sessions, Trauma Clearing, Blockage Removal, Spiritual Development and Empowerment • info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com • 860-830-5841

Massage Therapy & Reiki Jill Andrzejewski, LMT, Reiki Master, Psychic A Moment In Time Massage, LLC. Massage therapy and Reiki to empower you with tools for your healing journey. • Hamden and Madison, CT AMomentInTimeMassage.org • 203-909-1108

Medium Elizabeth Raver DeCesare, PhD Medium, Energy worker, Clairvoyant and Trance worker. Online sessions available. RavElizabeth516@gmail.com DrLizMedium.com • 203-400-9212

Mobile Reiki Cheryl Benanti Relieve Stress with in-home Reiki Sessions or two office locations if preferred. Provide sessions for horses as well. • reikiwilltravel.com • reikiwilltravel@gmail.com 860-966-0121

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc Vis Wellness Center Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncture Provider Rocky Hill, CT & TeleMedicine Statewide • (234)2-ACU-DOC DrNicoleKlughers.com • info@DrNicoleKlughers.com

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See more holistic practitioners at: HolisticCommunityProfessionals.org To join the HCP contact: Shirley at 860-255-8844 June 2021 27

green living

Traveling for the Planet Sustainable Ways to Explore the World

shutterstock.com/g/evgenyataman

by Sandra Yeyati

fter more than a year in social isolation, many of us are ready to hit the road, meet new people, fly to exotic locations and enjoy the sights and flavors of anywherebut-here. Although the travel industry is raring to serve pent-up demand, this unprecedented respite can be an opportunity to reset priorities. When choosing hotels, modes of transportation, places to shop and dine, and other activities, consider their sustainability. Tourism need not harm the planet. With proper planning, it can enrich it while benefiting the people living in the places we visit.

Fly Direct and Economy “Flying is the most carbon-intensive thing we can do in our lives,” says Holly Tuppen, author of Sustainable Travel: The Essential Guide to Positive Impact Adventures. To reduce emissions, she recommends flying direct in space-saving economy seats; taking longer, less frequent vacations; and using trains or other overland transportation whenever possible.

Take it Slow In 2010, Tuppen travelled around the world without flying for 20 months. “We walked, biked, sailed across the Atlantic, got on a container ship across the Pacific, took trains, hitchhiked—a whole heap of transport cobbled together,” she recalls. “It’s not that 28

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

bucket-list idea of flying into a place, doing everything quickly and ticking off experiences. With slow travel, you’re letting the journey be part of the experience and inevitably, you meet more people along the way.”

Don’t Overdo It In another eco-friendly aspect of that excursion, Tuppen visited places that weren’t tourism hotspots. “From Venice to Bali to Mexico, there are examples of places that before the pandemic had too many visitors—more than the infrastructure could handle,” she says. “That’s a massive problem, because it harms the life of local people. When the cruise industry started to stop in Dubrovnik, Croatia, for example, local amenities like hairdressers and grocery stores became souvenir shops.”

Keep it Local According to Tuppen, the needs of locals should take precedence over those of tourists. A related problem is tourism economic leakage. “If you spend $2,000 on a trip to Thailand, my hope would be that I’d be contributing $2,000 to the economy in Thailand, but in reality, the way that the tourism supply chain is set up, a huge proportion of that money will end up in the hands of international companies,” she explains. “Ideally, we should be looking

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for accommodations, experiences, stores, restaurants that are all locally owned rather than being part of an international chain. If you’re booking a hotel, 70 percent or more of the workforce should be local.”

Pack for a Purpose To help travelers express their gratitude to a community for their hospitality, Rebecca Rothney founded PackForAPurpose.org, which lists items locals need and the accommodations and tour companies that deliver them to more than 450 community projects worldwide. Travelers dedicate a portion of their luggage space to carry in-kind donations and drop them off when they arrive at their hotel or meet their tour guide. Common items are medical and school supplies, as well as crafting materials for women to make and sell items like jewelry and trinkets, providing money to pay for their children’s education. “A stethoscope weighs less than a kilo, but it can touch 10,000 hearts,” she says.

Book Kind Hotels Finding sustainable accommodations can be challenging and time-consuming, but KindTraveler.com is helping to change that. Recognized by Travel + Leisure as a 2020 Global Vision Award recipient, the hotel booking platform offers exclusive rates and perks from vetted, Earth-friendly accommodations when travelers make a nightly donation to a local charity that positively impacts the community visited. “A $10 donation will provide care for a rescue kitten for one month in Belize, clean 250 pounds of trash out of a waterway in Sonoma, California, or provide 40 nutritious meals to individuals in need in New York City,” says co-founder Jessica Blotter. There are hundreds of participating hotels in 22 countries benefitting 70 global charities with an emphasis on fighting poverty, advancing environmental sustainability and reducing inequalities in communities. “It’s a way to connect, feel good and have meaningful experiences, knowing that your travel dollars are leaving the destination better than before you arrived,” Blotter says. Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

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The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

News, articles, resources, events— all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions. To contribute, email Editorial@eNaturalAwakenings.com.

natural pet

Create a Dog-Friendly Yard Plants, Paths and Play Areas to Wag a Tail by Karen Shaw Becker

ackyards can be sanctuaries, filled with gardens and landscaping. For homeowners with dogs, consider “dogscaping”. It’s a term coined by landscape designer Maureen Gilmer of Palm Springs, California, who wrote the e-book The Dog-Scaped Yard. Gilmer points out that nobody asks Fido his opinion on how to landscape the yard, “yet he spends more time there than anyone else.” The yard should be a safe and secure place for the family dog, so fencing may be necessary to give ample room to roam. Lawn chemicals on grass are linked to cancer in dogs, so those are best avoided. Some people choose to go beyond grass to create a rich environment for the dog to explore. Gilmer recommends planting a meadow, complete with tall grasses and perennials, where the prized pet can investigate the terrain. Low troughs of wheat grass are good for a dog to nibble on and may discourage him from chewing on ornamental flowers and plants. Some dogs also enjoy rose hips from Rosa rugosa plants.

ke magoon/AdobeStock.com

Flea-Repelling Herbs

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Many herbs were once known as “fleabane” because they could repel fleas. Plant a fleabane garden to discourage these pests from moving in and finding the dogs. “When my dog Dot rubs against them, I can smell the aromatic oils on her fur,” Gilmer notes. Suitable plants for this garden include pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), tansy (Tanacetum vulgare), fleawort (Erigeron canadense), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sweet bay (Laurus nobilis) and eucalyptus. The plants can also be dried and added to a dog’s bedding for a more natural flea repellant. When choosing the best locations for herbs and flowers, consider keeping about 18 inches around the border of the yard free from plants. Because dogs regularly tend to patrol the boundary of their territory, any plants on this trail may get trampled.

Fairfield Fairfield & Southern County & Litchfield Housatonic Counties Valley Edition eNaturalAwakenings.com eNaturalAwakenings.com

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Plants to Avoid in Pet Yards

Provide Thoughtful Areas for the Dog Dogs love to dig, but if it has become a problem, it could be because the dog is trying to uncover a cool spot to rest. Gilmer recommends being proactive by digging a shallow pit where a dog can comfortably fit in a shady spot. Line it with sand to prevent it from turning into a mud pit and keep it damp. In warm weather, a dog can retreat to this cooling-off spot. A plastic kiddie pool can be a welcome addition for dogs to escape the summer heat. To incorporate it into the landscape, dig out an area and set it into the ground. Another thoughtful addition is a post where a dog can mark his territory to his heart’s content. A large piece of driftwood or an upright log works well for this purpose. Logs are also useful as borders along planted areas where the dog is meant to stay out. Pathways for the dog to run through are also important, as dogs will create their own routes if they are allowed to. Turn the walkways into proper paths by widening them to three feet. Consider creating a

designated area in the yard for the dog to relieve himself. When planting flowerbeds, put sturdier plants such as ornamental grasses at the edge, while putting more fragile plants in the middle, where a dog is less likely to run over them. Choose plants that are sturdy, but soft, without thorns or spines that could scrape a pet. A doggy play area will also be much appreciated by a pup. Define it by using logs or stone blocks, then set out a few of the dog’s favorite toys for him to discover. For dogs that like to dig, teaching him that this is his play spot where it’s acceptable can save the gardens. Many four-legged diggers enjoy having a sand pit or designated dig spot where they can express this natural behavior. By paying careful attention to the plants and features in the yard, the perfect petfriendly environment can be created. Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. Learn more at DrKarenBecker.com.

Final Journey,

An outdoor area for pets must be free of hazards that could cause illness. This includes cocoa bean mulch, which contains the chemical compounds theobromine and caffeine, which are highly toxic to dogs and can be fatal. Specific plants can also be poisonous to pets and can cause a variety of conditions, including diarrhea, vomiting, internal bleeding, respiratory distress, seizures, organ damage or failure, coma or death. Research any plants in the yard for safety, and be sure to keep the yard clear of the following poisonous plants, as compiled by the Pet Poison Helpline, to create a backyard that’s both fun and safe for pets:

Autumn Crocus Azalea Cyclamen Daffodils Dieffenbachia Kalanchoe Lilies Lily of the Valley Oleander Sago Palm

We are One

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Energy Balancing for Companion Animals

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Cell: 203-274-3267 • AnimalHealing@optonline.net

January June 2021 2021 31 31

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events calendar NOTE: All calendar events must be received online by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Editorial@eNaturalAwakenings.com for guidelines and instructions. No phone calls or faxes, please. Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com to submit online.

SATURDAY, JUNE 19 Cooking with Connecticut Weeds – 6-8pm. Invasive garlic-mustard and dandelion. Harvest, learn each plant’s materia medica, cook as a group and enjoy the fruits of your labor. $32 per participant, all materials provided. Grounded Goodwife, Woodbury. 203-9420774. Register: GroundedGoodwife@yahoo.com or GroundedGoodwife.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 12 Universal White Time Gemstone Healing 1 Certification – 9am-6:30pm. 6/12 & 6/13. Learn to heal yourself, others, animals and the environment with this rare and ancient universal knowledge. Includes the basic stone kit. All levels of experience are welcome. $400. Braulttree Wellness Center, Higganum. 860-830-5841. Info@CrysalMusicHealing.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 20 Sonic Alchemy – 2-3:30pm. This sound healing meditation concert combines Bradford Tilden’s piano music, crystal bowls and channeled vocal tones to create a powerful activating, and healing experience. Bring pillows, mats, etc. $4.99/livestream access @facebook. com/CrystalMusicHealing. $20 cash at door. The Red Barn In Durham, 352 Main. St, Durham. 860-358-9195. TheRedBarnInDurham.com. Contact Bradford: 860830-5841, Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 Akashic Field Healing from the 13th Octave – 6:30-9:30pm. 20-week training Wednesdays from June 23 through November 3. Anyone can learn to use Akashic Field Healing as a personal and spiritual tool. AFH gives you the ability to identify core issues, while offering insight into common problems in any area of your life that may be a struggle. $1600, Non-refundable deposit of $400 required for registration. Payment plans are available. AcademyForSoulHealing.com.

markyourcalendar ALEPH TALKS

by Dr Bart Stuck and Rev Marjorie Partch

Wednesdays • 7pm

An ongoing weekly online lecture series discussing linkages between science and religion through mysticism. Spirituality and mysticism are for many not any part of daily life, with empty materialism becoming dominant, and ever more people ask: What is the Purpose of Life? Background: the Tao of Physics, CG Jung, string theory, Kabbalah and the Tree of Life, music keys and scales, yoga, astrology.

Sessions Hosted via Zoom

through the Unitarian Church in Westport by Dr. Bart Stuck, Mathematician & Physicist and Rev. Marjorie Partch, Jungian Astrologer & Poet. To receive the link to attend, go to AlephTalks.com and fill out the contact form.

ongoing events

sunday Naam Yoga Community Class – 9am-10:15am. With Deborah Clelland. Naam Yoga Class, outside in downtown Bethel near the gazebo. Please bring a mat, towel, water and chair if you need one. Sponsored by Bethel Parks and Recreation, The Municipal Center, Bethel. Donation: $10/ per person or $20/per family. Online Meditation Practice Session – 10-11am. While in-person meditation is limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering online meditation practice sessions and Dhamma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Learn Energy Psychology in Classes and Healing Sessions – 10am-1pm. First Sunday. 10am-1pm. Learn the ways you can use color therapy and energy medicine techniques to create health, wellness, happiness and improve your body, mind and soul. Lessons guided by Energy Medicine Practitioner with over 20 years’ experience. No previous knowledge. Free. Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 2385 Park A e, Bridgeport. 212-362-8800. Reserve: MicheleSValente@ protonmail.com or 475-999-2180. Virtual Live Streaming and On Demand Meditations – 10:30-11:45am. Experience inner peace and lasting happiness by learning to control your mind through the practice of meditation. Classes include guided meditations and practical advice to carry into daily life. Everyone is welcome, no meditation experience necessary. $5-$12. MeditationInConnecticut.org.

monday Salt Cave of Darien: Salt and Musical Guided Meditation with Christina Connors – 7:308:30pm. Nurture your body and soul in this unique salt therapy and musical guided meditation with healer and recording artist Christina Connors. To learn more, visit ChristinaConnors.com. $40. Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Rd, Darien. 203-658-7667. SaltCaveOfDarien.com.

wednesday Naam Yoga Community Class – 9am-10:15am. With Deborah Clelland. Naam Yoga Class, outside in downtown Bethel near the gazebo. Please bring a mat, towel, water and chair if you need one. Sponsored by Bethel Parks and Recreation, The Municipal Center, Bethel. Donation: $10/ per person or $20/per family. Salt Cave of Darien: Yin Yoga – 6:15-7:45pm. Limited to 4 people. Please bring your own yoga mat, blanket, towel, 2 blocks, if you have them and wear white socks and a mask. Join Jennifer Duncan, Certified Yoga Instructor, for a 90-minute Yin Yoga class. All levels class. Also via Zoom. $35/In-person; $17/from home. Reservations required. Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Rd, Darien. 203-658-7667. SaltCaveOfDarien.com. Online Meditation Practice Session – 7-8pm. While in-person meditation is limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering online meditation practice sessions and Dhamma talks using

Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

thursday Gemstone Clnic – 7:30-9pm. Third Thursday. Experience gemstone treatments for only $10 each and learn about Universal White Time Healing and what it has to offer. RSVP preferred. Bradford: 860-8305841 or Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com. $10-$20. The Red Barn in Durham, 352 Main St, Durham. 860-358-9195. TheRedBarnInDurham.com.

friday Reiki 1st Degree Workshop: Online or In-Person – 10am-5pm. First Friday. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (24 years). Learn Reiki 1st Level (Western Style). Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Two manuals and certificate included. Zoom link will be given with e-mail and payment. Please call to register. Also held on the first Saturday. No drop-ins. $135. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com. Virtual: Yoga Dance Party Livestreamed – 8-9:15pm. Fourth Friday. Dance party to shake your soul, move your energy, emotions, and let it all flow. Short yoga warm up and cool down, ending with prayers and blessings for the well-being of all. Please register to get the Zoom link. $10. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-7301893. YogaSpace-CT.com/Events.

saturday Saturday Dharma and Morning Meditation – 7:308:15am. Every week we will discuss various works on topics such as self-study, meditation, self-improvement, mindfulness, joy and much more. The discussion will be followed by a 30-minute guided breath-based meditation. Proceeds are donated to our charity of the month. $10/cash. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com. One-Day Meditation Retreat – 9:30am-4pm. Second Saturday. Limited in-person meditation retreat. The extended practice is meant to deepen self-awareness and a previously established meditation practice is suggested. Please abide by guidelines listed on our events page. Must register online. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. In-Person Meditation Practice Session – 10-11:30am. Limited in-person meditation practice offered on Saturday mornings. All levels welcome. If it’s your first time, please let someone know so that we can provide a brief introduction. Please abide by guidelines listed on our events page. MUST register online. Donations encouraged. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org. Reiki Second Degree Workshop: Online or InPerson – 10am-5pm. Fifth Saturday. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (24 years). Learn Reiki Level 2 (Western Style). Learn how to send reiki distance healing, deepen your use of Reiki for yourself and others and more. Two manuals and certificate included. Also held on the last Friday. No drop-ins. $225. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com.

June 2021 33

community resource guide

EMBODY THE SACRED

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 Advertising@eNaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit.

AMPCOIL CENTER

BLACK ROCK HOLISTIC HEALTH CBD

AMPCOIL

Freddie Kimmel, Product Expert 95 Cross Hwy, Redding 833-267-2645 Freddie@AmpCoil.com AmpCoil.com Extraordinary Wellness! AmpCoil is an extraordinary system that delivers sound frequencies through PEMF to harmonize, balance, and support you on your journey to wellness. 90% of AmpCoil’s most active users reported that AmpCoil has been instrumental to their personal wellness. See ad, back cover.

ART & HEALING SEDONA ART

Art Supplies & More Marge Courtney, Owner 450 Main St, Ridgefield SedonaArt.net The expressive arts are alive and well at Sedona Art. Inspiration and supplies for artists, and creative types of all ages. Art and spirit inspired workshops, events and artist talks. We can’t wait to meet you and see what you’re creating. See ads, pages 5 and 12.

AYURVEDA NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

A 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. See ad, page 5.

CBD

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

Dr. Kristine DeMarco 203-333-6544 BlackRockHolisticCBD.com

Black Rock Holistic Health Center has the most feminized Organic CBD Oregon Seed products on the market. We offer CBD oil, as well as CBD Buds. Organically Grown in Washington County, NY. CBD oil and Buds to help deal with pain, anxiety, stress and insomnia.

COACHING FREDDIESETGO

Freddie Kimmel New York City, Connecticut, Austin 833-267-2645 FreddieSetGo@gmail.com FreddieSetGo.com Freddie Kimmel is a Functional Health Coach, Reiki Healer, Gut Health Specialist, and cancer survivor. He helps people eliminate brain fog, fatigue, and belly fat by incorporating PEMF, Bioresonance, and energy devices to help activate the body’s natural healing mechanisms. See ad, back cover.

EDUCATION ACADEMY FOR SOUL HEALING Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com AcademyforSoulHealing.com

The academy hosts many trainings including 13th Octave LaHoChi, Rebirthing Breathwork, Akashic Field Healing and An Enhanced Year of Healing. The vision for the Academy for Soul Healing is the integration of many modalities, in their purest form, in order to support the growth and expansion of humanity, individually and on a global scale. See ad, page 15.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford Deana.Paqua@gmail.com EmbodyTheSacred.net Offering classes, training programs, healing sessions and mentoring in cross-cultural energy medicine and contemporary shamanism for healers, spiritual seekers and the energy sensitive. Learn self-healing, self-empowerment and trauma transformation through the sacred.

INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 AutuoriC@WCSU.edu WCSU.edu/IHHS The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with opportunities to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Our programs are currently offered virtually. Ongoing programs include the Mudra Meditations and Stressbusters, and programs are open to the public and offered free of charge. Please visit us online for detailed information about virtual programs.

EMPOWERMENT AND TRANSFORMATIONAL HEALING BELOVEDNOW

Rev. Cathy Whelehan & Rev. Laura Young 77 Post Rd, Danbury 203-648-8023 Goddesses@BeLovedNow.org BeLovedNow.org BeLovedNow is a three month healing and empowerment program for women 18-88 and beyond. This program of daily embodied practice, using meditation and journaling, is based on 12 Guiding Spiritual Principles which support living your soul’s truth FULLY.

ENERGY HEALING BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Virtual and In-Person Sessions 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 3.

ESSENTIAL OILS WAYNE LEISS, LMT, CAO 20 Fifth Ave, Apt A, Danbury 203-994-1207 Wayne@WayneLeiss.com WayneLeiss.com

Essential oils address stress reduction, support the natural functioning of body systems and can enhance overall well-being. They are used in topical, internal and aromatic applications. Improve physically, emotionally and spiritually as Wayne teaches you about the benefits and uses of massage with natural and pure dōTERRA Essential Oils. See ad, page 3.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE TAMARA SACHS, MD

Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 TSachsMD.com Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human. Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She has great success with IBS, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, autoimmune problems, toxicity and more, by creating individualized, realistic and comprehensive personalized wellness plans. She consults in her New Milford, CT office, and also by phone or video using telemedicine.

HEALING CENTER TURNING POINT HEALING ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com/Healing-Arts-Center TPHA & EC is a central resource for healthy living and wellness in Ridgefield. This vibrant, serene, HEALING ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER energetically positive Heal. Enlighten. Renew. center is home to skilled practit-ioners and teachers offering holistic services and educational programs to empower and enhance both the individual and community. Reiki, Zero Balancing, Evidential Psychic Mediumship, Shamanic and Cross-Cultural Healing and much more.

HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER OPEN SKY YOGA BARN & WELLNESS CENTER Cathy Whelehan 95 Cross Hwy, Redding 203-648-8023 CWheels33@mac.com

We are a welcoming community offering classes, workshops, spiritual counseling, AmpCoil sessions, concerts. Yoga offerings include asana, restorative, pranayama, chanting, philosophy, meditation, and ritual. Our garden-filled grounds featuring a river and labyrinth are designed to help you along your path. See ad, back cover.

HEALTH COACH

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN

LORIANN VITA, CHC, RMT

Westchester County, New York 845-402-8474 LoriannVita@gmail.com LoriannVita.com Bolster your holistic well-being and increase relaxation, clarity, focus and balance with personalized health coaching and Reiki sessions conducted by a Certified Health Coach and Reiki Master Teacher. Please see website for details. Animal Reiki also offered.

HOLISTIC NETWORKING HOLISTIC COMMUNITY PROFESSIONALS

Shirley R. Bloethe, Executive Director 860-255-8844 HCPinc.ORG@gmail.com HolisticCommunityProfessionals.org Holistic Community Professionals is an organization of holistic practitioners and businesses focused on improving health and wellness with products and services throughout New England. We also connect consumers with a wide variety of modalities, holistic products, and services as well as offering two EXPOs a year at The DoubleTree by Hilton in Bristol. See website for details. See ad, page 27.

NA Fun Fact: Natural Awakenings’ free app has been downloaded by more than 40,000 iPhone users and is now available on the Android platform. To advertise with us, call 203-885-4674.

HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: food allergies, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, chronic fatigue syndrome, weight loss, hormonal health, fibromyalgia, anti-aging medicine, and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation. See ad, page 25.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Dr. Justin Rapp Dr. Jacqueline Benoit Dr. Jason Grygier Dr. David Spengler Dr. Sonia Singh Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 17.

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June 2021 35

LIFE COACH/HYPNOTIST THEA LITSIOS, CHy

Life Coach, Hypnotist, Teacher of Active Dreaming Remote sessions available TheaLitsios.com 203-693-1493 My specialty is to help individuals who have an inner stirring that says, “Something has to change”. Using skills as a life coach, hypnotist and teacher of Active Dreaming, I assist my clients in reinventing themselves, and creating the life they dream of. Call for a free 30-minute consultation. See ad, page 3.

LYME DISEASE MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND AMY WIESNER, ND, LAC Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

We help you unleash your own body’s ability to heal. Cutting-edge evaluations and 25+ years experience help to determine precisely which individualized therapies – including energy medicine, oxygen therapies, acupuncture, homeopathy, botanicals, nutrition, allergy/toxin testing and treatment are used to nourish, cleanse, balance and repair. We collaborate with you in a caring environment. See ad, page 14.

LYME DISEASE EDUCATION/SUPPORT LYME CONNECTION

400 Main St, Ridgefield Info@LymeConnection.org LymeConnection.org Lyme Connection is an all-volunteer, communitybased task force providing support and resources to patients and their families coping with tick-borne disease. See ad, page 22.

MEDITATION CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION

THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

The Angel Cooperative is a unique lifestyle boutique featuring the first and only Shungite room in the USA. Wide selection of crystals, jewelry, candles, essential oils and soaps. Spiritual gifts, statuary, oracle decks and tarot and home décor. Available in The Shungite Room: readings, Reiki, meditation, sound therapy, energy work, sound and gong baths, and workshops. See ad, page 21.

MEG REILLY

Meditation | Counseling Lectio360.com MegReilly360.com 203-952-6272 Join Meg for Lectio 360, a guided 30-minute contemplation to deepen and strengthen your personal spiritual practice, to help ground you in the sacred in every thing, every day. See ads, pages 3 and 12.

METABOLIC/WEIGHT OPTIMIZATION MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND AMY WIESNER, ND, LAC Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

FOLLOW US ONLINE FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT & MUCH MORE Facebook @NaturalAwakeningsFairfieldCounty Instagram @Natural_Awakenings_Fairfield Visit us online to subscribe to our eNewsletter eNaturalAwakenings.com 36

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

METAPHYSICAL STORE

eNaturalAwakenings.com

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

A 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. See ad, page 5.

NICOLE KLUGHERS, ND, PHARMD, MSAC

Vis Wellness Center Rocky Hill & TeleMedicine Statewide (234)2-ACU-DOC DrNicoleKlughers.com Info@DrNicoleKlughers.com Dr. Nicole Klughers offers comprehensive naturopathic care to restore optimal health and prevent disease. Dr. Nicole’s “health detective” approach identifies the root cause of symptoms and provides all-natural solutions with personalized “Food as Medicine,” herbal medicine, nutrient therapies, acupuncture and more. In-depth assessment is often done with detailed testing of vitamins/minerals, hormones, advanced cardiovascular markers, inflammation, food intolerances, gut/microbiome health and more. See ad, page 27.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND AMY WIESNER, ND, LAC Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 DrMarvinSchweitzer.com

NON-DENOMINATIONAL CEREMONIES HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC Barbara (Bobbi) Soares New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com WiseFishWorld.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. As an ordained minister and sound healer, She will be offering non-denominational sacred sound ceremonies for weddings and other rites of passage. Bobbi’s band Hummingbird and Friends is well known for their eclectic blend of chants, jazz, blues, reggae and country. She has studied vocal improvisation with Bobby McFerrin, vocal yoga with Heather Lyle and sound healing with Silvia Nakkach, John Beaulieu and Don Conreaux. See ad, page 9.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

HOLISTIC NEW DAY COUNSELING SERVICES

Jessica Lima, MS, LCSW Holistic Psychotherapy/Coaching 158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-260-5769 HolisticNewDay@gmail.com Jessica will align with you on your journey to emotional and physical well-being. Combining her traditional psychotherapy background with her certification in integrative healing, she will work with you in exploring a more holistic approach to feelings of anxiety, depression, stress and more.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 RobinOrdanLCSW.com

Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in divorce, parent/child conflict, grief, attachment/bonding, child development and parenting. See ad, page 12.

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs.

REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 AngelHealReiki.com

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC

JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with cancer, Lyme disease and back pain. All Reiki levels taught.

THE SHUNGITE ROOM THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube The first Shungite room in the USA. Shungite is the only natural material known to contain fullerenes, a unique carbon molecular structure. It is believed to have active metaphysical properties with strong healing powers. The Shungite Room hosts readings, Reiki, meditation, sound therapy, energy work, sound and gong baths, and workshops. See ad, page 21.

SOUND HEALING HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC Barbara (Bobbi) Soares New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com WiseFishWorld.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

We live in an ocean of sound and vibration, constantly changing and affecting our body’s unique natural resonance. Many types of stress cause this resonance to get out of tune. Hummingbird Sound Yoga explores and restores this resonance by shifting awareness to where the body is out of tune. Using earth, dance and symphonic gongs, bowls, tuning forks and humming-for-health meditations, a deep relaxation response balances energy and retunes and reconnects our natural resonance. Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. See ad, page 9.

TAROT BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Virtual and In-Person 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com What’s in the cards for you? Tarot is a powerful tool for guidance and will empower you to make your best choices. Gain insight to your most thoughtful questions. The answers you receive will illuminate your path, making visible your challenges and ways to overcome them. See ad, page 3.

June 2021 37

TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING KATIE AUGUSTYN, MA, CPC

Transformation Coach Shamanic Healer TransformationCenterCT.com 203-820-3800 TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com Katie will assist you in reaching your true potential and heal what has been holding you back. You will experience real selfacceptance and start to live in alignment with who you truly are so you can create a life you love, a life of meaning and purpose. See ad, page 3.

BETH LEAS

LIGHTER & BRIGHTER WELLNESS Susan Ahlstrom, MS Counseling, EFT Practitioner, Reiki Master 452 Main St, Ridgefield 401-232-4514 LighterAndBrighterWellness.com

Susan Ahlstrom is a Certified EFT Practitioner. She incorporates energy practices and the expressive arts to support mental health. Her fun approach to healing helps children and adults learn self-care skills to lessen anxiety and improve overall well-being. See ad, page 3.

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 15.

Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

UNIVERSAL WHITE TIME, CRYSTAL & SOUND HEALING CRYSTAL MUSIC HEALING Bradford Tilden, MM, CMT, UWT Remote: Phone or Zoom 860-830-5841 Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com

My goal is to empower you to develop spiritually and professionally. I offer UWT energy and gemstone healing with guided visualization for spiritual healing and self-actualization, and transformational voice activation coaching sessions. I teach certification classes in Universal White Time (UWT), Lemurian Intuitive (LSINH), Crystal, and Sound Healing. I use these techniques, and more to help you to obtain authentic expression, empowerment, and transformation. You can purchase personally attuned crystals and gemstones through me. My clients and students gain a renewed clarity and a sense of purpose as they perceive their truth and remove blockages that distort their perception. Contact me for a free 30 minute consultation. See ad, page 27.

WELLNESS & GIFTS TOUCH OF SEDONA

Gifts, Crystals, Native American Art & Jewelry, Intuitive Readings Marge Courtney, Owner 452 Main St, Ridgefield 203-438-7146 Facebook.com/TouchOfSedona A unique spiritual boutique offering gifts, healing inspiration and the energy of the American Southwest. Come explore Native American art and jewelry, crystals, chimes, candles, incense, books and more. Check out our schedule of intuitive readers, guides and more! See ad, page 5.

WELLNESS CENTER ANEW MASSAGE AND WELLNESS Angela Ballard 15R Hartford Ave, Granby 860-413-9886 • Option 5 ShiftingGranby@gmail.com AnewMassageAndWellness.com

After 20+ years as a registered nurse, Angela is now a wellness practitioner, offering consultation and AmpCoil and IonCleanse foot bath sessions. She has recovered from chronic illness and Lyme disease, and now enjoys helping others on their journey. See ad, back cover.

eNaturalAwakenings.com

THE ANGEL WING, A DIVINE SPIRITUAL CENTER

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube The Angel Wing hosts workshops, yoga classes, retreats, energy work sessions, readings, Reiki sound and gong baths, and guided meditations. It is available to rent on an hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis. Optional rental spaces include a large open room and/or an intimate private room with massage/Reiki table. See ad, page 21.

SALT CAVE OF DARIEN

555 Post Rd, Darien 203-658-7667 Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com

Our wellness destination offers a rich lineup of therapies: community salt cave sessions, special events with local healers, lunchtime meditation class, coffee chatter sessions and weekly yoga and stretch classes. See ad, page 3.

YOGA: SOUND AND VOCAL HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC Barbara (Bobbi) Soares New Milford 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com HummingbirdSoundYoga.com WiseFishWorld.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers hummingbird sound yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions in person & online. Her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 9.

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Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

June 2021 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties CT

Articles inside

AMPCOIL

TOUCHED BY LYME

5 NATURAL TOXIN BINDERS

PRACTICING YOGA AS A FAMILY

SINGING IN THE SHOWER

NATURAL MAMA

ACCOMPLISHMENT/ ACHIEVEMENT