natural awakenings of the ny capital district - january 2015

H E A L T H Y L I V I N G H E A L T H Y P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

January 2015 | NY Capital District Edition | AlbanyAwakenings.com

H E A L T H Y L I V I N G H E A L T H Y P L A N E T

feel good • live simply • laugh more

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ENERGY BOOSTERS

Four Waysto Recharge

LOUISEHAY

on GloriousAging

Hormone- Happy Foods

The Right Choices Make Our Bodies Hum

Putting the Brakes on

CLIMATE CHANGE

WE STILL HAVE TIME

2 NY Capital District AlbanyAwakenings.com

3natural awakenings January 2015


Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District

P.O. Box 38118, Albany, NY 12203PH: 518-729-0099 • FX: 877-741-4462

AlbanyAwakenings.com

PublisherCarolyn Coogan

National Editor S. Alison Chabonais

Editor Martin Miron

Calendar Editor Jacqueline Wright

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letterfrompublisherGrowing up living on a pond in the woods, January meant endless afternoons skating around what I considered my own Olympic ice rink. I’d don my rainbow-striped leg warmers and tote along my boom box so I could choreograph my masterpieces to Whitney Houston tunes. On snowy days now, I often get lost in the memory of such beloved winters and wonder how the cold and ice have less appeal, let alone the magical feel of those days. Every year, Northeast blasts seem packed with more of a punch. If you relate to the polar bear on our cover this month, you’re not alone. As the white inches continue to pile up, I’m

making a concerted effort to remain positive, deciding to focus on the beautiful scenes around our neighborhoods and partaking of youthful delights like building a snowman or taking a crunchy hike among the trees. The animals that brave the elements remind me of our abundant blessings, from cozy homes and warm meals to a season that slows us to a calmer pace. I hope you are curled up comfortably today reading Natural Awakenings by the fire and feeling grateful for the joys we are so graciously afforded on our extraordinary home planet. This month’s theme of Climate Change tackles the vital need for making changes that preserve our cherished quality of life before it’s too late. Regardless of where you stand on the political aspects of this issue, it’s obvious we each need to take daily steps to live responsibly and sustainably. I hope Christine MacDonald’s comprehensive feature article, “Easing Earth’s Rising Fever,” sharing insights from experts in the field, helps you become even more informed and effective in your efforts. May making positive changes that raise up our community and world soar to the top of our New Year’s resolution lists.

To a joyful 2015,

Carolyn Coogan, Publisher

P.S. As I was putting the final touches on my letter, Santa brought me tickets to see Disney on Ice! My excitement equaled the kids’—and now I have some new choreography to try out when I hit the ice this winter!

Carolyn Coogan, Publisher


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contentsNatural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

6 newsbriefs

13 healthbriefs

15 globalbriefs

16 ecotip

18 inspiration

20 wisewords

23 community spotlight

30 localfood

3 1 consciouseating

32 greenliving

34 healingways

36 calendar

41 classifieds

42 naturaldirectory

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16

20 23

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18 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU When ‘Good Enough’ Is Perfect by Elizabeth Lombardo

20 LOUISE HAY ON LOVING YOURSELF TO AGELESS HEALTH by S. Alison Chabonais

24 EASING EARTH’S RISING FEVER The Right Steps Now Can Avert the Worst of It by Christine MacDonald

28 THE SUN’S ELECTRIFYING FUTURE Solar Power is a Worldwide Eco-Goldmine by Linda Sechrist

31 HORMONE-HAPPY FOODS The Right Choices Make Our Bodies Hum by Linda Sechrist

32 ECO-FRIENDLY FLOORS Sustainable Beauty Underfoot by Avery Mack

34 ENERGY BOOSTERS Four Ways to Recharge by Kathleen Barnes

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newsbriefs

Welcome to The New You with Dr. Gulyas

Northeast Spine and Wellness presents The New You, a concept of mindful eating called purification, which

results in controlled weight loss; improved nutrient ef-ficiency; and increased energy and vitality. Introductory sessions will be held at 12:30 p.m., January 3 and 10. Dr. Joseph S. Gulyas, director of Northeast Spine and Wellness, has 30 years of experience in the field of natural health care and whole food nutrition. He will

lead the discussion about why everyone needs to eat clean for better health and longevity, and offer advice for making 2015 the best year ever.

Admission is free. Location: 1741 Rte. 9, Clifton Park (across from Residence Inn). To register (required) email [email protected]. For appointments and more infor-mation, call 518-371-4800 or visit DrGulyas.com. See ad, page 25.

Stay Fit in the New Year at Albany Dance & Fitness

Typically, January is a time when we make New Year’s resolutions to improve our

health and well-being. The holidays are over, and now it’s time to work off our indulgenc-es. Albany Dance & Fitness has added more dance and fitness classes and different types

of workouts, from boot camp style to relaxation, to get the job done. The times and days have expanded, too. Classes for adults and teens are held throughout the day and evening, and there are also weekend sessions. Most are available on a drop-in basis to allow students to come when it is convenient. Class types include ballet, Balletone, barre, belly dance, Bokwa, hip-hop, Insanity, jazz/contemporary, PiYo, Pilates, Zumba and more.

Location: 1197 Central Ave., Albany. For more information, call Gail Tassarotti at 518-573-3631 or visit AlbanyDanceFitness.com. See ad, page 13.

Crystal Energy Sessions at Women’s Club

Cheryl Beckmann and Daniel Roy, of All Energy, a yoga, healing and

sound therapy practice, heal by combin-ing the beautiful sounds of crystal sing-ing bowls and native flute during unique all level yoga classes and meditations. They will meet Saturday mornings at 9:15 a.m. at the nonprofit Woman’s Club of Albany during January, February and March, (excluding February 21). All Energy offers unique yoga classes, meditations, workshops and healings that incorporate crystal singing bowls, pyramids and other instruments such as Native American flute and gui-tar. The bowls they use are made of real stones and crystals that are heated and then formed into the appropriate shape. The sounds of crystal singing bowls stimulate deep into the body tissues, al-lowing promoting healing from within. The combination of yoga and sound therapy helps to distress and release ener-getic blocks reinstating the natural sense of balance and harmony to the body.

Admission for men and women is $15/$10 students. Location: 725 Madi-son Ave., Albany. For more informa-tion, call 518-810-7646 or visit AllEnergyHealing.com.


A Holistic Approach to Improving Relationships in the New Year

Angela Kaufman, a certified intuitive consultant, will be conducting 20-minute readings from 10

a.m. to noon, January 17, as part of the New Love in a New Year celebration for those that have been un-lucky in love, exploring the underlying reasons behind relationship difficulties. Participants will also learn what they can do to clear obstacles and attract more satisfying relationships. Through the process of intuitive relationship read-ings, women will learn what is subconsciously sabo-taging their relationships. Both obstacles and strengths will be revealed empowering women to attract better quality relationships through simple, practical changes. Kaufman states, “Women invest time, energy, and money in relationships that result in heartbreak and confusion. If women learn the subconscious habits that contribute to attracting what they don’t want in a relationship, they have the key to inviting what they truly do want in a satisfying relationship.”

Cost is $25. Location: Short and Stout Tea, 1736 Western Ave., Guilderland. To schedule a reading at this event call 513-622-9178 or email [email protected]. See ad, page 14.

Angela Kaufman

Pregnancy Project Event and Celebration

A gathering to hail the launch of Natural Awaken-ings’ 2015 Pre/Postnatal Local Resource Guide

will be held from 1 to 4 p.m., January 10, at A Space To Grow, in Troy. Guests can do a bit of networking with local families and many of the birth and baby professionals in the Capital Region at this casual pot-luck and social gathering.

Admission is free, refreshments will be shared and kids are welcome. Location: 216 River St., second floor. RSVP to troyppgathering.eventbrite.com. For directions and parking information, call A Space to Grow at 518-545-4606. View the guide online at Issuu.com/albanyawakenings/docs/alb_2015_supplement or call Natural Awaken-ings at 518-729-0099 for more information. See ad, page 9.


newsbriefs

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Holistic Moms Network Launches New Chapter In Troy

The Holistic Moms Network is launching

Chapter 206 in Troy, and will hold a kick-off event at 6:30 p.m., January 9, at A Space to Grow. Moms, dads, grandparents, part-ners and other caregiv-ers are welcome to join. The Troy chapter will meet from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the second Friday of each month and welcomes volunteer guest speakers on a variety of holistic lifestyle topics. The Holistic Moms Network encourages new mothers to trust their instincts, parent from the heart and educate themselves about the pros and cons of all healthcare options. Members of the group share life-changing information and advice on a variety of topics, including pregnancy, breast-feeding, natural childbirth, positive parenting, alternative medicine and all aspects of green living.

Location: 216 River St., Troy. For more information, call Chapter Leader Erica Svatek at 518-225-7243 or visit troyny.HolisticMoms.org.

WellNest Studios Opens in Latham

Wellnest Studios Fitness & Wellness, LLC, has

opened in the Peter Har-ris Plaza, 952 Troy-Sche-nectady Road, in Latham. Owners William and Nicole Laznovsky say, “We celebrate each individual’s potential. Our expert team provides exceptional wellness packages for all clients, no matter their lifestyle. WellNest hosts an inspiring atmosphere for people to come together to assist, motivate and guide each other in enjoying the benefits of optimum health.” The multifaceted facility offers a combination of fitness, nutrition and holistic health services from a community of instructors for yoga, spin, TRX, personal training, barre, medi-tation and much more. Their caring healers provide massage therapy, Reiki, acupuncture and other holistic health tech-niques. In providing these services, WellNest Studios hopes to inspire and motivate the community toward a greater awareness and compassion for the self, the individual and the whole.

For more information, call 518-783-6484, email [email protected] or visit WellnestStudios.com. See ad, page 25.


January Specials at Joy of Nia Movement

Buddy up with a friend and share the cost of an unlimited three-month class pass pur-

chased before January 31 at the Joy of Nia Move-ment, in Guilderland. Beth Foster, black belt Nia teacher and owner, says, “Nia is a fun, non-impact, high-energy movement that conditions the body, mind, emotions and spirit. Connect to joy, pleasure and healing as you dance to soul-stirring music, while increasing your flexibility, mobility, strength and balance. You will feel calm, alive, energized and aware as you move to choreography drawing from a blend of dance arts, martial arts and healing arts. Start your New Year with healthy movement and begin your Nia journey today. Kick off your shoes and dance to the music!” Joy of Nia Movement offers a variety of morning and evening classes, including Beginner Nia, Nia, Athletic Nia and Nia FloorPlay. Another special opportunity at experience Nia this month is a workshop, A Spiritual Nia Dance through Your Intui-tive Self, from 10 a.m. to noon, January 24, for $45. Preregistration is required.

Cost: $110 per person for three months unlimited, available through Jan. 31. Loca-tion: 3 Denny Rd., Guilderland. For more information, call 518-452-3679 or visit JoyOfNiaMovement.com. See ad, page 11.

Get Unstuck at 518 Acupuncture

518 Acupuncture has opened at 632 Plank Road, Suite 202, in Clifton

Park. An open house will take place from 2 to 7 p.m., January 23, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2 p.m. Ash-ley Wells, LAc., MS, MA, will give free acupuncture treatments for relaxation in the community setting, as well as consultations. The clinic offers high-quality, affordable community acupuncture services us-ing a sliding fee of $20 to $40 that encourages people to stick with treatment plans and allows acupuncture to be accessible to a greater population. Private appoint-ments are also available. Wells is a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine and incorporates Chinese medical massage, dietary therapy, qigong instruction and Chinese herbal recommendations when appropriate.

Free consultations. For more information, call 518-416-1846 or visit 518acu.com.


Brenda Cary Jenks

newsbriefsLearn About the Benefits of Ayurveda

Begin a path of discovery by starting 2015 off on the

right foot with Bridgette Kinder, owner of Ageless Acupuncture, as she introduces the ancient practice of ayurveda in a four-week workshop, Vibrant Health Ayurveda 101, that begins from 7 to 8 p.m., January 6, at Namaste Yoga, in Saratoga Springs. Susan Cuda, owner of Namaste Yoga, says, “Have you experienced trouble losing weight? Perhaps no matter what you eat or which supplements you ingest, your joints remain stiff and painful. Trouble sleeping, or digesting a meal? Or, are you constantly just feeling tired no matter how much you rest? Ready to finally discover and embrace the elusive dream of vibrant health that you deserve? It isn’t as hard as you think.” Participants will find out what body type they are, and why knowing this vital information will lead to feeling and looking better than ever, no matter their age. Ayurveda sees the body as a makeup of five elements, manipulated by inter-nal and external forces.

Cost is $140. Location: 2 Franklin Square, Saratoga Springs. Register (required) at 518-222-7470 or NamasteYogaSaratoga.com.

Feng Shui Class in Clifton Park

A Feng Shui Basics class, taught by taught by Brenda Cary Jenks, a

feng shui consultant and space clearing specialist, will take place from 1 to 4 p.m., January 10, at The Yoga lily, in in Clifton Park. This class covers the basic prin-ciples of Tibetan Black Hat Feng Shui. Participants will learn how to Bagua chart their own floor plans, identify issues that need correction or adjustment and learn to apply the basics to all of their environments. Jenks says, “Your home and work environments have a pow-erful impact on your health and general well-being. Making these spaces better can make your life significantly better in every way!”

Location:1 Barney Rd., Ste. 222, in Clifton Park. To regis-ter, call Pamela Lunz Medina at The Yoga Lily at 518-744-5565 or go to TheYogaLily.com. For more information, visit fengshuibcj.com.


Taking Control of Finances in 2015

Laurie Bonser, owner of Chang-ing Times Planning, will hold

the first session of a new Women’s Money Discussion Series 2015: Match Your Spiritual Intentions With Your Financial Resolutions, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., January 17, at Still Point Retreat Center, in Mechanicville. Participants will learn how to match spiritual intentions with the new year’s financial resolutions and gain skills to approach this process with confidence and success. Bonser is a musician, teacher, intuitive reader and sha-man who also practices many other healing modalities. As a certified public accountant, certified financial planner profes-sional and coach, she has extensive expertise and credibility in the area of comprehensive financial planning for individu-als and business owners. She focuses on working with clients that value the integration of thoughtful financial stewardship with their own health, relationships, intentions and envi-sioned futures. Bonser, a resident of Ballston Spa, is the author of Finan-cial Stewardship: A Guide for Personal Financial Health and Wellness, an Amazon bestseller in 2014.

Cost is $15. To RSVP, email [email protected] by Jan. 14. Location: 20 Still Point Rd. For more infor-mation, visit ChangingTimesPlanning.com. See ad, page 12.

Holistic Family Wellness Day at A Space to Grow

A Space To Grow, in Troy, is holding

a free Holistic Family Wellness Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., February 8, for those planning a family or that already have a house full munchkins. There will be something for everyone to enjoy. The day will be filled with 30-minute classes such as Yoga Nidra, Guided Meditation, Mindful Moments for Par-ents, Self-Love for Teen & Tween Girls and more. There will also be complimentary lactation counseling sessions and natural fertility assessments, plus an opportunity to connect with other like-minded families while enjoying healthy bev-erages and treats. Founder Buffy Owens says, “The heart and soul of A Space To Grow is to create a space and place that cultivates and fosters a sense of community, and this event feels like one that is coming straight from the heart.”

Admission is free. Location: 216 River St., second floor, Troy. For more information, call 518-545-4606 or visit aspaceto-grow.org/family-day. See ad, page 40.


newsbriefsA Natural Approach to Preventing and Curing Cancer

A life-changing, 11-episode documentary series,The Quest for the Cure… The Truth About Cancer, is an important resource for health professionals,

patients, family members or anyone searching for preventative health. The series provides the latest and most successful research, facts and methods for healing cancer, including natural prevention and alternative methods used worldwide. The series is available from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, beginning January 7 through March 17, or two Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 17 and 31. The audience will hear from doctors, oncologists, nutritionists, naturopaths, researchers and scientists, as well as those that have taken their disease into their own hands and beaten it. Discussions include Integration of Western and Eastern medicine and more.

Admission to the Wed. series is $10/night or $99 paid in advance. The Sat. series cost $159 in advance or $179 at the first session, and lunch from New World Catering is provided. Location: Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd. (Rte. 5), Scotia-Glenville. For more information, call 518-372-4706 or visit GetVitalHealth.com. See ad, page 3.

Pave Your Path Women’s Weekend

Amber LaPointe, founder and owner of YANA Wellness Center & Yoga Studio, is sponsoring a transformative

weekend retreat filled with opportunities to unwind, re-charge and reconnect from March 20 to 22 at Nine Moun-tain Retreat Center, in Plainfield, Massachusetts. Participants will share laughs, nutritious meals, girl talk over wine, great yoga classes and other fun activities. They will work on vision boards, cre-ating a “life vision” practice and learning better strategies for a balanced, radiant life.

Cost ranges from $295 to $350, including meals, lodging and activities. Space is limited to 15 women. For more information, call 518-522-5472 or visit YanaYoga.net. See ad, page 7.


healthbriefs

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Eucalyptus Oil Inhibits Spread of TBMany of the natural compounds in the es-

sential oil of Eucalyptus citriodora may prevent the airborne spread of the tuberculo-sis (TB) bacterium (Mycobacterium tubercu-losis), according to a study from the Institute for Tuberculosis Research at the University of Illinois College of Pharmacy. Several of the compounds in the eucalyptus oil inhibited the airborne spread of the infection by 90 percent, while the major component of the oil was only weakly active, at 18 percent. The scientists used an array of analytical laboratory tests to measure the airborne spread of TB from contagious patients. They also identified 32 active air-borne compounds within the essential oil of eucalyptus and studied the impact of the interaction of multiple components in artificial mixtures. The researchers undertook the study because “the rapid emergence of exten-sively and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis has created a pressing public health problem… and represents a new constraint in the already challenging disease management of TB.”

Legumes, Nuts and Corn Cut Risk of Breast CancerA Harvard Medical School study con-

cluded that eating more peanut butter, corn, nuts and beans, including lentils and soybeans, during adolescence significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer later on. The researchers followed 9,039 young women that were between 9 and 15 years old when the study started in 1996, hav-ing the subjects complete diet question-naires every year through 2001, and also in 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2010. When the women were ages 18 to 30, the number of benign breast diseases that had developed was recorded. The statistics associated a

daily serving of nuts and legumes at age 14 with a 66 percent reduction in the risk of developing breast cancer. Just a single serving of peanut butter once every three days at the age of 11 was associated with a 44 percent reduction of breast cancer risk. Intake of at least one serving of corn every three days was correlated with a 39 percent reduction in the disease. Earlier studies by Harvard researchers found that eating pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, soybeans, tofu and other vegetable fats also reduces breast cancer risk.


SECONDHAND SMOKE DAMAGES CHILDREN’S HEARINGResearchers from São Paulo’s School

of Medical Sciences of Santa Casa have found that secondhand smoke negatively affects a child’s hearing. The researchers tested 145 students between ages 8 and 10 that showed normal hearing in standardized tests. Their secondhand smoke exposure was measured by the level of a nicotine metabolite in the children’s urine. The 60 youngsters that had been exposed to secondhand smoke showed signifi-cantly lower responses to certain fre-quencies in both ears when compared to the others that weren’t exposed to the smoke. Researchers suspect that the affecting mechanism may be the acrolein gas that forms from burning tobacco cigarettes. The chemical was found to damage ear cells in a study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology. A 2012 study of diesel exhaust, which likewise produces acrolein gas, by the Republic of Korea’s Dongguk Univer-sity, also showed damage to middle ear cells. Supporting these results, a study published in the American Medical Association Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery journal found that smoking during preg-nancy almost triples the risk of low-

frequency hearing loss in the child. The study tested 964 adolescents between ages 12 and 15, of whom 16 percent were exposed to

prenatal smoking.

PHOTOTHERAPY REDUCES KNEE PAINResearch from Brazil’s Universidade Nove de Julho has confirmed that pulsed lasers and LED therapy applied during treatment can significantly reduce knee pain. The 86 patients that participated in the study were divided into two groups; one received 12 treatments using super-pulsed red laser and in-frared LED phototherapy and the control (placebo) group received 12 treatments using non-therapeu-tic phototherapy instruments.

The patients given therapeutic phototherapy reported feeling significantly less pain, beginning with and continuing after the tenth treatment through a one-month follow-up visit, and showed improved quality of life compared with the study’s placebo group.

YOGA BREATHING HELPS ILL KIDS’ LUNGSResearchers from Brazil’s University of São Paulo have

found that hatha yoga breathing exercises can signifi-cantly improve lung function in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a disease that often ends in premature death from respiratory failure. The average age of the 26 children that completed the study was 9-and-a-half years old. Participants were taught how to perform hatha yoga breathing exercises and instructed to per-form them three times a day for 10 months. The research-ers performed spirometry [breathing] tests before, during and after the study period. At the end of the 10 months of practice, the scientists found the breathing exercises improved both the children’s forced vital capacity (the vol-ume of air that can forcibly be blown out after full inspiration) and forced expira-tory volume in one second (the volume of air that can forcibly be exhaled in one second after full inspiration).

healthbriefs


globalbriefsNews and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.

Pristine ProtectionAmerica’s Huge New Underwater ParkThe Pacific Remote Islands National Marine Monument—about 470,000 square miles of ocean surrounding a couple of remote U.S. Pacific islands—is now officially set aside to protect its pristine habitat from deep-sea mining and com-mercial fishing. Although smaller than the nearly 800,000

square miles of its original plan, the park is still twice the size of Texas. In a final compromise, fishermen will have access to the waters around half of the islands and atolls, while the other half remains protected. Only 2 percent of the entire Pacific enjoys similar protection.

Water CartonsPaper Can Easily Replace PlasticThe Boxed Water is Better company was launched in 2009 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to provide a more sustainable alternative to the ubiquitous plastic contain-ers that are made from petroleum products, have big carbon footprints and clog U.S. landfills. Boxed Water containers resemble milk cartons and are far more sustainable because about 75 percent of the box comes from a renewable resource—trees in certified, well-managed forests—and are completely recyclable. The company uses reverse osmosis and carbon filters for its purified drinking water from the municipal source at the location of their filling plant, and then ships the product to retailers via the shortest route to curtail the transportation footprint. Boxed Water has partnered with 1% for the Planet to help with world water relief, reforestation and environmental protection projects, benefiting both human-itarian and environmental efforts.

For more information, visit BoxedWaterIsBetter.com.

Smart SolarJapan Floats New Nuclear AlternativeTwo companies in Japan will begin building two huge new solar power islands that will float on reservoirs, fol-lowing the inception of the Kagoshima floating solar plant as the country’s larg-est, which opened in late 2013 just off the country’s southern coast. The new direction comes as Japan looks to move on from the Fukushima atomic disaster of 2011 and meet the energy needs of its 127 million people without relying on nuclear power. Before the incident, about 30 percent of the country’s power was generated by nuclear plants, but Fukushima destroyed public confidence, and with earthquakes highly likely in regions containing reac-tors, Japan is looking for alternatives. Solar islands could also be a solu-tion for other countries where space or nuclear concerns are an issue. It’s pos-sible that one day a significant portion of Europe’s power could come from use of the technology; experts believe the en-gineering challenges can be surmounted.

Source: DailyGalaxy.com


ecotip

Super SudsScore Healthy and Eco-Friendly Points at PartiesFor healthy eaters, Super Bowl parties’ bent toward rich, cal-orie-laden foods compete with our desire to shed some holiday pounds and return to regular diet regimens. Whether supplying eco-beer selections for guests or bringing re-freshments to a gathering, armchair players can score green points both in terms of natural ingredients and supporting the domestic economy and environment. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company’s plant in Chico, California, uses 10,000-plus solar panels and a large on-site water treatment facility for recycling and conserving water. “It’s the number one ingredient in brewing,” says Sustainability Manager Cheri Chastain. “You can generate more energy, but you can’t make water.” Other American microbrews deploy varied eco-solutions. Dave’s BrewFarm, in Wilson, Wisconsin, for instance, obtains most of its energy via a wind-powered generator. Goats “mow” the grass outside the Anderson Valley Brewing plant in Boonville, California. Odell Brewing Company, in Fort Collins, Colorado, practices waste reduction and recycling and uses renewable energy sources. The 100 percent wind-powered brewery also encourages employees to bike to work and/or carpool, and uses biodiesel-powered delivery trucks (the biodegradable fuel emits 78 percent less CO2 than standard fuel). Five of the 2014 Good Food Awards’ winning beers—exceeding

the criteria of recycling water, local sourcing and banning genetically modified ingredients—are Port City Brewing Co., Alexandria, Virginia; Deschutes Brewery, Bend, Oregon; Bear Republic Brewing Co., Healdsburg, California; Victory Brewing Co., Downingtown, Pennsylvania; and Ninkasi Brewing Co., Eugene, Oregon (GoodFoodAwards.org). ChasingGreen.org offers informa-tion on many other U.S. craft breweries that operate in sustainable ways, includ-ing the Brooklyn Brewery, Brooklyn, New York; New Belgium Beer, Fort Collins, Colorado; and the Great Lakes Brewing Co., Cleveland, Ohio. If none of these brews is yet a current favorite, seek them out at a specialty beverage retailer that stocks from multiple regions in order to score a touchdown for us and the Earth. Some just may become part of local fans’ first-string beverage “team” after the game is over.


Capital Roots Empowers Community Food Resources

by Wesley Delanoy

meat, dairy and value-added products. Capital Roots delivers online orders to childcare centers, convenience stores, restaurants and individuals that find it difficult to access fresh, local food.

n The Urban Grow Center provides social, economic and physical benefits for the entire region. An onsite produce market sponsored by MVP Health Care makes fresh, affordable food available for visitors to the building and residents of the surrounding neighborhood. A volunteer center sponsored by First Niagara provides a space for residents to get involved in the work that Capital Roots does. The building is handicap-accessible, making it possible for Capi-tal Roots to fully involve persons with disabilities. The building’s gardener resource room sponsored by SEFCU is open to the community

Residents can attend Capital Roots’ organic gardening and culinary classes or access a collection of gardening texts. The produce distribution cen-ter sponsored by McCarthy Charities will enable Capital Roots to triple the amount of fresh food it is distributing throughout the region. Local food pro-ducers from 10 counties throughout the Capital and Hudson Valley Regions will distribute their food through Capital Roots’ hub. The Urban Grow Center’s second phase of development includes the creation of a commercial kitchen which will be available to small food-based businesses, and six greenhouses that will serve as a job training site for hard-to-employ adults.

Capital Roots has raised 80 percent of the $2.8 million needed to fund the Urban Grow Center’s first phase of development. To donate, visit Tinyurl.com/DonateCapitalRoots. Capital Roots is located at 594 River St., in Troy. For more information, call 518-274-8685 or visit CapitalRoots.org.

Capital District Community Gar-dens has changed its name to Capital Roots and opened the

Urban Grow Center, a regional food hub that will enable the organization to distribute 1 million pounds of fresh food to 300,000 residents each year. This 40-year-old nonprofit nourishes healthy communities by providing ac-cess to fresh food and green spaces for all residents throughout Albany, Rensse-laer, Schenectady and southern Sara-toga counties. Capital Roots oversees several programs.

n 50 Community Gardens enable 4,000 residents to grow their own organic food. The nationally renowned Veggie Mobile and Veggie Mobile Sprout produce markets are traveling markets, with which Capital Roots de-livers fresh, affordable produce to inner-city neighborhoods, senior residences and childcare centers.

n The Produce Project is a year-round job and life skills training program for underprivileged youth. Students are given a stipend and a harvest share to bring home to their families in exchange for growing crops on three acres of urban farm land and selling them at local markets.

n Healthy Stores makes fresh food available at urban convenience stores, where inner-city residents shop every day.

n Squash Hunger is a food rescue ini-tiative through which Capital Roots col-lects fresh food from farmers, gardeners and supermarket shoppers and orga-nizes volunteers to deliver it to pantries, shelters and soup kitchens.

n The Taste Good Series is a six-week nutrition education program for inner-city children, aged preschool through second grade. Capital Roots’ educator uses samples, games and age appropri-ate lessons to encourage young chil-dren to try new fruits and vegetables.

n Through Urban Greening initia-tives, Capital Roots beautifies cities by planting trees on commercial and residential properties and organizing public landscaping projects.

n Veggie Rx is a fresh food prescrip-tion program. Capital Roots partners with local physicians to provide diabetic and hypertensive patients with coupons that are redeemable on the Veggie Mobile produce market.

n The Virtual Veggie Mobile is an online marketplace where dozens of local food producers list their produce,

Capital Roots works to

reduce the impact of poor

nutrition on public health in

New York’s Capital Region.


Does it sometimes feel like if we can’t do something perfectly, why should we bother doing it at all?

Perfectionism feeds on such an all-or-nothing approach in following rigid self-imposed rules that can sabotage relationships, health and happiness. Instead, try adopting a “better than perfect” mindset that embraces life’s imperfections without guilt or shame. A clean enough house or a good enough job is in many ways better than perfect. Here are helpful approaches to reframe the internal discussion. Remember what matters. In planning a big birthday party for her husband, one wife was so stressed trying to manage every detail that she had to stop and ask herself: What is most im-portant—having everything look perfect, or having a fun party they would enjoy and remember for the rest of their lives? Thinking about our values keeps things in perspective and perfectionism in check. Perfection isn’t likable. We often try to be perfect to gain other people’s attention and approval, but no one wants to be around a person trying to be someone they aren’t. No one’s life is perfect. Social media often present idealized versions of people’s lives. Few post about fighting with their partner or coping with an unhappy infant; we most often hear about vacation

adventures and baby’s first word or step. We can avoid feelings of dissatisfaction by avoiding comparisons with others. It’s not failure, it’s data. Rather than personalize a perceived failure, take it on as an opportunity. If a New Year’s resolution to work out more isn’t kept, ask why: Is the exercise location too far away or is the class schedule inconvenient? It feels better to adopt a more successful strategy than to beat ourself up about falling short. Perfectionism is a treadmill. People often think, “I’ll be happy when I weigh this or achieve that,” always seeking the next level of self-improve-ment. Appreciating who we are right now is a path to happiness. Perfectionism is a learned be-havior, and anything learned can be unlearned at any age. As we continue to strive for excellence, we can learn to embrace what’s good.

Take a perfectionist self-assessment quiz at Tinyurl.com/PerfectionismQuiz.

Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and the author of Better than Perfect: 7 Strategies to Crush Your Inner Critic and Create a Life You Love plus A Happy You: Your Ultimate Prescription for Happiness. Connect at ElizabethLombardo.com.

inspiration

New Year, New YouWhen ‘Good Enough’ Is Perfect

by Elizabeth Lombardo

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At this time of year, losing weight is always at the top of the list of resolutions, and it is no wonder, be-

cause it can be very exciting to drop into a smaller clothing size after completing a weight-loss program. There are the obvious health benefits to losing weight, such as better mobility, improved cardiovascular health, improved respiratory health and lower chances of chronic diseases such as diabetes or cancer, but there are also won-derful, unexpected benefits. The benefits of weight loss can reach into relationships, career and overall quality of life. When a person feels good about themself, it affects how they relate to and are perceived by others. Many studies show that people that are fit earn more money, get better positions at work and appear to be happier in their lives. This may be the result of social perceptions, but it is also the result of the individual feeling more confident and relating in a more positive way to themselves and others. A synergetic effect does result when, by losing weight, a better overall quality of life is often gained.

The question then becomes, how can we lose weight in a fun and easy way? Hypnosis provides the key for many because it can make learning the tools to achieve and maintain a healthy weight seamless. A program that is going to succeed in the long term needs to ad-dress eating the right foods, in the right amount, at the right time, exercise moti-vation, drinking plenty of water, improv-ing the quality of rest and appropriately handling stress. Used properly, hypnosis can help

people naturally feel like making the right choices to effect change. Results are unique to each person, but because getting healthy can dramatically improve overall mental, physical, and emotional health, hypnosis for weight loss is an avenue worth exploring.

Shannon Keyes Ciucevich is the owner of Key 2 Joy, Inc., located at 145 Vly Rd., Ste. 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, in Colonie. To find out more about losing weight through hypnosis, call 518-598-6968 or visit Key2Joy.net. See ad, page 11.

Hypnosis For Weight Loss For a New You in the New Year

by Shannon Keyes Ciucevich


wisewords

Louise Hay on Loving Yourself

to Ageless Healthby S. Alison Chabonais

A renowned leader of the self-help movement from its early days, Louise Hay is celebrated world-

wide for teaching—by personal example and through her bestselling book, You Can Heal Your Life—how each of us can transform our mind, body and spirit by changing the way we think. Her positive philosophy has sparked an industry and her Hay House publishing group. Nourishing mind and body, loving life, learning and growing, giving back and moving ahead—these comprise Hay’s program for creating health, happiness and longevity. At 88, she continues to travel for business and pleasure, embracing vital, joy-filled days with a thankful smile. Her new book, Loving Yourself to Great Health, co-au-thored with Ahlea Khadro and Heather Dane, explains how she’s taking all she knows to the next level.

Why does first applying love and forgiveness to yourself make a happy, healthy and long life possible?Loving yourself is the foundation for living the life you want. A healthy and happy life is rooted in self-love, and forgiveness is an act of self-love. It all comes down to how you think and treat your-self. What we give out we get

back, so it all starts with us. Remember, no matter what the problem is, there is only one answer: loving yourself. Start with small steps and be gentle. If you start there, magical things will happen.

How do you manage to engage in a stream of loving affirma-tions 24/7?Practice, practice, practice! Slowly, bit-by-bit, start each day with a loving act towards yourself. Loving affirmations and worrying about things take up the same amount of time; you still get the same things done along the way, but worrying creates stress, while affirma-tions will brighten your life. It can be ex-hausting if you fight the shift and make it difficult. If you make kindness to yourself and others a simple part of everyday life,

it isn’t exhausting at all.

What are some key elements to crafting a life experience that supports and nourishes

ageless being? Choose thoughts that bring love

into your life and laugh a lot. Say yes to life and

the magic it brings. I trust that life

will bring me exactly what I need,

and part of that is realizing

that I don’t need to know everything, because life

brings me people like Ahlea and Heather.

A third of our life is spent eating, and


it’s essential that we know the best way to do this. Start your day with water and an act of self-love. Eat real food; seasonal, organic, natural foods are a positive affirmation to your body. Poop every day, figuratively and literally. Learn to listen to your body and its wisdom. Choose exercise that you love and that makes you feel good. Also, go on a media diet. Filter out from your consciousness any messages that say you are not good enough or that separate you from the beautiful and lovable person you are. Surround your-self with like-minded people that share good news and love to laugh.

The core belief founding your lifework is that every thought we have is creating our future. Is scientific research now supporting that?When I began teaching people about affirmations, there wasn’t any science to support it, but we knew it worked, and now studies verify that. I particularly love Bruce Lipton’s scientific research showing that we are not controlled by our genes because the genetic blueprint can be altered through positive changes in our beliefs. I hear reports every day of how people are healing their lives by changing their thoughts through cultivating self-love and personal affirmations. They are seeing healing of autoimmune diseases, obesity, addictions, post-traumatic stress and many other so-called incurable ill-nesses. It’s amazing what happens when you are kind and loving to yourself.

What is your secret to aging gracefully through the years?It’s simple. It’s about getting your thoughts and food right and having fun along the way. If you are thinking positive thoughts but feeding yourself processed, unnatural or sugary foods, you are sending yourself mixed messages. Feed yourself nourish-ing foods and think loving thoughts. Any time you don’t know what else to do, focus on love. Loving yourself makes you feel good, and good health comes from feeling good.

S. Alison Chabonais is the national content editor for Natural Awakenings magazines.

Daily Affirmations from Louise HayI open my heart to sing the joys of love.

I feel glorious, dynamic energy. I am active and alive.

Wellness is the natural state of my body.

I am worth loving. There is love all around me.

I am grateful for my healthy body. I love life.

My mind and body are in perfect balance. I am a harmonious being.

My life is joyously balanced with work and play.

I love every cell in my body.

My day begins and ends with gratitude and joy.


Andrea Fortuin

communityspotlight

Yoga and a Brother’s Loveby Sandra Yeyati

Andrea Fortuin, the owner of Orenda Yoga & Healing Arts, was 6

years old when she first tried yoga in 1972. Her babysitter took her and her 8-year-old brother, Brian, to the park where a group of hippies liked to congregate and perform the ancient practice. Fortuin remembers these carefree visits fondly: “I thought yoga was neat because it felt like gymnastics to me. Everybody was so nice. I liked being around people that were good to me and my brother.” Fortuin had a tough upbringing in foster care, bouncing from home to home. Luckily, she had her brother by her side through all the ups and downs. “He was always my care-giver—the one constant in my life,” she recalls. Yoga also played a stabiliz-ing role during the rough spots. In her teenage years, when she was placed in a group home for children, she joined a yoga group instead of gym class. “I thought yoga was peaceful, and I liked it better than weight training and dodge ball,” she says. “It was like an island where I could find myself.” Fortuin remembers practicing yoga when she was pregnant with her first child at age 18, and later through her other two pregnancies. After her last child was born, she began to share her knowledge with some of the other moms. They met in each other’s homes and formed what Fortuin describes as a

tive restoration, or iRest yoga nidra, a research-based practice of deep relax-ation and meditative inquiry which has been shown to reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxi-ety, insomnia, chronic pain and chemi-cal dependency. She has since taught this type of yoga in her own studio, as well as at several rehabilitation centers and chemical dependency programs. In 2009, she was invited to work at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in a program delivering complementary wellness practices to military personnel suffering from PTSD. During an iRest yoga nidra session, Fortuin’s students lie on a mat while she guides them into a deep, meditative state. “We experience different things in life which are compacted in our body. iRest provides a facilitated rest where you can release these things. The practice can be adapted to any demographic. I’ve given yoga nidra classes to high school students, elementary students, military, homeless, sick people and well people.” Fortuin loves to teach yoga. “It’s part of who I am,” she says, adding that her favorite part is when a student awakens to a new realization or ability. “It’s a beautiful thing. It’s like when your child learns to walk. There’s such a wonder in it, and it makes me feel good to see them achieving.” In 2009, Fortuin founded the non-profit Soldiers Hope to assist veterans suffering with PTSD. By offering alter-native wellness strategies, she hopes to help people find the peace in their lives that provides fulfillment and avoid tragedies like her brother’s. Orenda Yoga & Healing Arts offers classes in yoga, meditation, Reiki and belly dancing, as well as massage thera-py, nutritional counseling, life coaching and sessions with a spiritual intuitive. In the coming year, Fortuin will be part-nering with a couple that owns an inn in northern Belize to offer yoga retreats there in the winter.

Location: 457 Rte. 146, in Guilderland Center (12085). For more information, call 518-861-5714 or visit OrendaYoga.org and Soldiers-Hope.org. See ad, page 45.

Sandra Yeyati is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

playgroup. “We’d stretch and do some acrobatic-type yoga. I showed them what I knew, like how to quiet the mind.” Deepening her commit-ment to the practice, Fortuin completed a two-year pro-gram at Maria College for alternative and complemen-tary therapies in 2002, which

included yoga instruction. Upon completing the

course, she began teaching yoga profes-sionally at wellness centers, as well as in her home. Meanwhile, her brother Brian strug-gled. After a troubled stint in the military, he fell into drug abuse, going in and out of rehabilitation facilities and struggling with homelessness on several occasions. Yoga and meditation were a source of comfort and peace for him, too, but they could not stop the downward spiral. In 2003, just months after his 40th birthday, he committed suicide. “I was absolutely grief-stricken when my brother died, as most people would be when they lose a sibling,” Fortuin says. “For me, it was extremely profound because he was the keeper of my past. He was the only person that was there in my childhood.” Afraid to be consumed by sorrow, she decided to spin her devas-tating loss into a positive by opening Orenda Yoga & Healing Arts in 2004. A few years later, in 2007, Fortuin began to study and work with Richard Miller, Ph.D., the creator of integra-


EASING EARTH’S RISING FEVERThe Right Steps Now Can Avert the Worst of It

by Christine MacDonald

leaders believe that we can still reverse the dangerous current course. “These next few years are going to tell the tale about the next 10,000 years,” says well-known global environ-mental activist Bill McKibben, author of Eaarth: Making a Life on a Tough New Planet. “We’re not going to stop global warming; it’s too late for that. But we can keep it from getting as bad as it could possibly get.”

On the Energy FrontMcKibben’s grass-roots group, 350.org, opposes the planned Keystone XL pipe-line that, if built, is expected to transport Canadian tar sands oil across the United States to refineries along the Gulf of Mexico. Increasing fossil fuel infrastruc-ture, he says, is impractical, and we’d be better off investing in clean and renewable energies such as wind, solar and geothermal. It’s a theme also sounded by Frances Beinecke, president of the New York City-based Natural Resources Defense Council and author of Clean Energy Com-mon Sense. With the failure of the U.S. Congress to enact climate legislation, her group, encompassing 1.4 million online members and activists, is pressing the Obama administration to live up to its pledge to regulate the carbon dioxide emitted by power plants. The leading culprits for climate-changing gases, they contribute 40 percent of the country’s carbon emissions. “It’s time to act, and we have to act now,” Beinecke says.

On the Water FrontSandra Postel agrees. “Water, energy and food production: These things are tightly linked, and all are affected by climate change.” From Los Lunas, New Mexico, she leads the Global Water Policy Project, a group also focused on the climate conundrum, as well

Renowned climate sci-entist Richard

Somerville, Ph.D., uses simple lan-guage and sports analogies to help us understand climate change and the risks ahead. A distinguished professor emeri-tus, researcher at California’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography and author of The Forgiving Air, he likens greenhouse gases to a scandal that’s rocked major league baseball in recent years. “Greenhouse gases are the ste-roids of the climate system,” he says. Although we can’t link them to any single weather event, we can see them in the statistics at the end of the sea-son, Somerville says. With the bases loaded, “Look out, because Mother Nature bats last.” To explain how we could confront the problem, he turns to another sport, skiing. If we were serious about avoiding a worst-case scenario, we would have

opted for the “bun-ny slope” approach, a leisurely descent from the ubiquitous use of climate-changing fossil fuels. Unfortunately, greenhouse gases would have had to peak two years ago

and now be in decline in order to take the easy way out. Instead, the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere shot past 400 parts per million last May, a level that most scientists agree the planet hasn’t experienced since long before the arrival of modern humans. “Science tells you, you can put this much carbon dioxide into the atmo-sphere, but no more,” without changing the planet’s climate too dramatically, Somerville says. “Mother Nature tells you, you cannot wait 50 or 100 years to solve this. You have to do it in five to 10 years. There’s been a general failure to connect the dots.” The bit of good news is that time has not yet completely run out. He and other pioneering thought

Frances Beinecke

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Bill McKibben

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“We’re not going to stop global warming; it’s too late for that. But we can

keep it from getting as bad as it could possibly get.”

~ Bill McKibben


as National Geographic’s Change the Course national freshwater conservation and restoration campaign. Competition for water is increasing in several parts of the country, she says, and will only get worse as dry conditions increase demands on groundwater. Endan-gered sources detailed in her extensive re-lated writings include the Ogallala Aquifer, vital to agricultural operations across much of the Great Plains, and Califor-nia’s Central Valley, the nation’s fruit and vegetable bowl. In the Colorado River Basin, which provides drinking water to some 30 million people, water demands already exceed the available supply—and that gap is expected to widen with changes in the region’s climate. In other regions, the problem is too much water from storms, hurri-canes and flooding, a trend that Postel and other experts say will also worsen

as the world continues to warm and fuel weather extremes. Beyond the loss of lives and property damage, this “new normal” holds stark implications for communities. “We’ve built our bridges, dams and other infrastructure based on 100-year records of what’s happened in the past,” advises Postel. “In a lot of ways, how we experience climate change is going to be through changes in the water cy-cle. If the past isn’t a good guide to the future anymore, we’ll have to change our water management.” (See nrdc.org/water/readiness by city and state.)

On the Ocean FrontThe world’s oceans are being trans-formed by climate change in ways we are only beginning to understand. Since the Industrial Revolution, oceans have absorbed a significant portion of the carbon dioxide generated, experienc-ing a 30 percent rise in acidity; that’s expected to reach 100 to 150 percent above pre-industrial levels by the end of this century, according to the nonprofit National Academy of Science (NAS), in Washington, D.C. “Thank good-ness for the oceans, but they are paying a tremendous price,” says Oceanographer Dawn Wright, Ph.D. She’s chief scientist of Esri, in Redlands,

Sandra Postel

Dawn Wright

“Tell politicians that you care about this. We’ve

got to get countering climate change high on

the priority list.”~ Richard Somerville

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California, that analyzes geographic system relationships, patterns and trends. The higher acidity levels are “taking a toll on shellfish such as oysters, clams and sea urchins, as well as coral reefs, where much aquatic life is spawned,” Wright explains. Climate change may have other devastating impacts on the ocean food chain—and eventually us—that scientists are only beginning to discern. As just one of myriad im-pacts: Ocean acidification threatens the country’s $3.7 billion annual wild fish and shellfish industry and the $9.6 billion slice of the global tourism business that caters to scuba divers and snorkelers, ac-cording to a recent NAS study.

The Way ForwardWe can be grateful for some hopeful developments in the call to act. Wright, who has advised President Obama’s National Ocean Council, is overseeing her company’s ocean initia-tive, which includes building an ocean basemap of unparalleled detail. While less than 10 percent of the world’s oceans’ underwater realms are mapped today, Esri is compiling authoritative bathymetric data to build a comprehen-sive map of the ocean floor. Public and private sector planners, researchers, businesses and nonprofits are already

using this map and analysis tools to, among other things, conduct risk as-sessments and provide greater under-standing of how onshore development impacts oceans’ natural systems. Municipalities are also taking action. New York City plans to restore natural buffers to future hurricanes, while Philadelphia and other cities are restoring watersheds, replanting trees in riparian areas, adding rain gardens, lay-ing permeable pavement and revamp-ing roofs and parking lots to reduce stormwater runoff. Investing in such “green infrastructure” is less costly than expanding “grey infrastructure” such as underground sewer systems and water purification plants. Increasingly, local authorities are relocating communities out of flood zones to allow rivers to reclaim wetlands, an effort which also creates new rec-reation and tourism spots. Floodplains buffer against extreme flooding and drought, plus filter stormwater runoff, removing farm and lawn fertilizers and other chemicals that otherwise enter waterways, creating deoxygenated “dead zones” where aquatic life can’t survive, as exemplified by parts of Lake Erie, Chesapeake Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

“These solutions are unfolding here and there,” Postel notes, while also remarking that too many locales are rebuilding levees at their peril and allowing people to return to areas that

flood repeatedly. “An amount of cli-mate change is already locked in. We will have to adapt, as well as mitigate, simultaneously.” Somerville, who helped write the 2007 assessment by the Nobel Prize-winning International Panel on Climate Change, labels it “baloney” when politicians say there’s not enough time or it’s too expensive to address the problem. “It’s very doable,” he main-tains. “First, inform yourself. Second, tell politicians that you care about this. Then raise hell with those who don’t agree. We’ve got to get countering cli-mate change high on the priority list.” McKibben recommends that the country gets serious about putting a price on carbon emissions. Meanwhile, he’s encouraged by the people-powered regional successes in blocking frack-ing, a controversial method of extract-ing natural gas, and credits grassroots groups for holding the Keystone pipe-line project at bay. “We’re cutting it super-close” and need to change the trajectory of climate change, according to McKibben, who says we can still have good lives pow-ered by wind and solar, but will have to learn to live more simply. “I don’t know where it will all end and won’t see it in my lifetime. But if we can stop the combustion of fossil fuels and endless consumption, then there’s some chance for the next generation to figure out what the landing is going to be.”

Christine MacDonald is a freelance journalist in Washington, D.C., who specializes in health, science and environmental issues. Learn more at ChristineMacDonald.info.

“Water, energy and food production: These things are tightly linked, and all are affected by

climate change.”~ Sandra Postel

“Thank goodness for the oceans, but they are paying

a tremendous price.”~ Dawn Wright


Energy EngineHumankind has sought for centuries to harness the sun because the cu-mulative energy of 15 minutes of its rays shining on Earth could power the world for a year. Following the invention of the solar collector in 1767, a slow, yet steady evolution of other breakthroughs in the quest have included the photovoltaic (PV) effect, observed in 1839, invention of the first solar cell in 1954 and a solar-powered communications satellite in 1958. Solar summits in 1973 and 1977 led to the inception of the Solar Energy Research Institute (now the National Renewable Energy Laboratory), part of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Organization Act signed by then-Presi-dent Jimmy Carter. Making the most of the “alchemy of sunlight” that Pulitzer Prize-winning author Daniel Yergin writes about in The Quest: Energy, Security, and the Remaking of the Modern World, has

required a global village of inventors, visionaries, scientists and engineers. Pioneering companies have produced technological advancements and re-duced manufacturing costs that expand the sun’s services to the world. Today, thanks to solar power, many of the re-motest villages in developing countries have electricity. “Without solar photovoltaics on satellites and those powering the uplink transmitters, downlink receiv-ers and associated equipment on the ground, the isolated residents of de-veloping countries can’t join the mod-ern world,” explains Neville Williams, author of the recently released book, Sun Power: How the Energy from the Sun is Changing Lives Around the World, Empowering America, and Saving the Planet. As founder of the guerilla non-profit Solar Electric Light Fund (SELF.org), Williams led the charge for elec-trifying households in 12 developing

The Sun’s Electrifying Future

Solar Power is a Worldwide Eco-Goldmine

by Linda Sechrist

“I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power!

I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.”

~ Thomas Alva Edison in 1931


countries for 17 years, beginning in 1990, using solar panels and systems funded by grants. “While we were cost-effective and decisive, the results were due to the honest, hardworking and dedicated people we found there,” he advises. Williams initiated his pioneering advocacy of solar energy as a media specialist with the DOE during the Carter administration and served as the national media director for Green-peace, in Washington, D.C. In 1997, he co-founded the solar installation company SELCO-India, which has sup-plied solar home systems to more than 150,000 families in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam and South Africa. In 2005, he founded the solar solutions supplier Standard Solar Inc., of Rock-ville, Maryland.

Economic EngineThe U.S. currently has an operating capacity of 13,000-plus megawatts of cumulative solar electricity—enough to power more than 2.2 million aver-age American homes. As the indus-try grows, so does its impact. The Solar Foundation’s Solar Job Census 2013 reported nearly 143,000 solar workers in the U.S.—a 20 percent increase over 2012—at 6,100 busi-nesses in 7,800 locations encompass-ing every state. According to Yergin and Wil-liams, the increasing value of nation-wide solar installations has “electri-fied” the U.S. economy. In 2013, do-mestic solar electric installations were valued at $13.7 billion, compared to $11.5 billion in 2012 and $8.6 billion in 2011. The top 10 states for annual additions of photovoltaic capacity in residential and commercial applica-tions are California, Arizona, New Jersey, North Carolina, Nevada, Mas-sachusetts, Hawaii, Colorado, New York and New Mexico. Currently, there are more than 550 major solar projects underway national-ly. Under the Obama administration, 16 of these have been permitted on federal lands and will provide 6,058 megawatts of generating capacity. The two experts expect solar energy to be a major catalyst of global political and economic change. Williams con-

tends that now is the time to fully access this cheapest form of unlimited energy. “If millions of poor families in developing countries can get their elec-tricity from the sun, why can’t Ameri-cans do the same?” he queries. In a 2002 National Public Radio Planet Money podcast, Yergin, president of Cambridge Energy Research Associ-ates, in Massachusetts, addressed the concerns of everyone that sees the com-mon sense of relying on solar energy. “Technology will be central to solutions for our energy challenges,” he says.

“What needs to be done is very, very large, as are the risks and challenges. What we have going for us is the greatest resource of all—human creativity—and for the first time in history, we are going to see it employed on a global scale.”

To learn more, visit SunPowerBook.com and DanielYergin.com.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Visit ItsAllAboutWe.com for Neville Williams’ recorded interview.


localfood

All For One and One For All at Honest Weight Food Co-op

Back in the olden days, an unscrupulous merchant in a country store might pad the profit by holding his thumb on the scale to increase the weight of the goods

being purchased. It’s a meme that has traversed the decades and emphasizes the importance of the name chosen for the Honest Weight Food Co-op, in Albany, because truth and transparency in all things is their watchword. Their mission is to promote more equitable, participatory and ecologically sustainable ways of living. The local, food cooperative is basically a grocery store that’s cooperatively owned by its 11,000 members, specializing in natural and organic foods in the Capital Region since 1976. Back then, a handful of people were seeking access to healthy, organic foods and found that by pooling their resources and ordering larger quantities, they were able to purchase them at a substantially lower price. The number of local growers and producers (and diversity of local products) is growing, with products from more than 290 local farms and 320 local sources. The co-op offers more than 5,000 local products, with an emphasis on or-ganic and natural items. There is a full-service meat department, in-house café and an unparalleled selection of fine and local cheeses. They strive to provide shoppers

with the highest quality products pos-sible, without artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. With more than 900 dif-ferent products sold in bulk, customers can buy just as much or as little as they like. Not only do they offer the freshest seasonal produce possible, the meat department is locally sourced, as well. Honest Weight knows that buying locally and knowing what’s in our food is becoming more and more impor-tant to shoppers. They even put out a quarterly publication online, the Coop Scoop, to keep members (and the pub-lic) up-to-date on improvements and special events such as free cooking and educational classes.

Honest Weight Food Co-op is located at 100 Watervliet Ave., in Albany. For more information, call 518-482-2667 or visit HonestWeight.coop. See ad, page 21.


consciouseating

Our body’s hormones work like an orchestra. When one instru-ment is out of tune, the entire

production struggles to maintain har-mony. Each plays a part in influencing the others and determining how well the whole concert works. Fortunately, our body has master-ful conductors, including the endo-crine system, which coordinates all of the glands and the hormones they produce. “Players” include the adre-nal, hypothalamus, pancreas, pineal, pituitary, reproductive and thyroid/parathyroid glands. “A healthy endocrine system is essential to making hormones in ap-propriate amounts throughout our life,” says Theresa Dale, Ph.D., a naturopath-ic doctor who practices as a traditional naturopath and clinical nutritionist in Oxnard, California, and has authored Revitalizing Your Hormones. “For example, when the ovaries shut down after menopause, the adrenal glands continue producing progesterone and other essential hormones.” Dale, dean and founder of the California College of Natural Medicine, further assures that contrary to asser-tions from some conventional medicine reports, the body is able to produce necessary hormones throughout our entire life. Hormones function as chemical messengers that commute through the bloodstream as part of the information

superhighway that connects the brain to the DNA managers of the body’s cells. “Hormones communicate with chemicals produced by the brain called neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which greatly influence energy levels, moods and other bodily functions such as moving memories from short- to long-term storage,” explains Dale. For 20 years, she has seen patients with critical hormonal imbalances respond to her recommended three-month, endocrine-rebuilding diet, com-prising three daily meals of steamed, sautéed and raw foods, fish, whole grains, legumes, seeds, nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, plus two raw vegetable or seed snacks. The regimen strives to balance metabolism, cleanse the body, restore immune function and revitalize the endocrine system. Kokomo, Indiana, resident Sylvia Egel, national director of coaching and education for Metabolic Balance, a personalized nutrition plan to balance metabolism and hormones, optimize health and increase energy at any age, agrees that hormones can be restored and balanced via proper food selec-tions. “Our lifestyle and dietary choices strongly affect our metabolism and hormonal health, as do stress levels and sleep patterns. Eating at the wrong time, in the wrong place or in the

wrong order, and even poor combina-tions of healthy foods, can be almost as problematic as eating junk food,” says Egel. She also warns against snacking, emotional eating, eating on the go, skipping breakfast and waiting too long between meals. Diana Hoppe, author of Healthy Sex Drive, Healthy You, an obstetrician and gynecologist in San Diego, Cali-fornia, who leads clinical trials related to women’s health at the Pacific Coast Research Center, also sees firsthand how what we eat directly affects our hormones. She attests that our bodies need a balance of three macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein and fat. “But for 20 years, we have been advised to decrease fat intake in favor of fat-free options that have been detrimental to us, because we need fat to produce hormones and maintain healthy hor-mone function. Certain fatty acids and cholesterol serve as building blocks in hormone production and cellular function, especially the reproductive hormones of estrogen and testoster-one,” says Hoppe. Food can be medicine for hor-mones. One of the most important hormone-balancing fats is coconut oil, which heals skin, increases metabolism and supplies a quick source of energy. Egg yolks are a good source of choline and iodine, essential to the produc-tion of healthy thyroid hormones, plus are rich in vitamins A, D, E and B-complex vitamins. Avocados have lots of healthy fat that helps absorb and utilize nutrients. Nuts and seeds, olive oil and salmon are all rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids that help stabilize hormone levels. Eating the right foods and incorporating healthy fats into meals increases overall energy, reduces hormonal fluctuations and helps us feel more balanced. Says Dale, “The majority of individuals are surprised to learn that hormone health doesn’t depend on age, but rather on a complex of factors, like the air we breathe, the water we drink, the quality of our diet, good sleep and adequate exercise, plus the relative health of our relationships and emo-tional life—and that’s just for starters.”

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings.

Hormone-Happy FOODSThe Right Choices Make Our Bodies Hum

by Linda Sechrist


greenliving

Truly good flooring is beautiful, practical and eco-friendly. The best choices may change from

room-to-room, as well as with geogra-phy, depending on family needs. Here are some key factors to consider for an optimum installation.

Added Value–HardwoodWood comes in many colors, polished to a high gloss or textured, and can be refin-ished when styles change. “Timber used to float downriver to the sawmill and not all of it arrived. We salvage logs from the bottom of the Penobscot River for flooring and other products,” says Tom Shafer, co-owner of Maine Heritage Timber, in Millinocket. “Our wood is as fresh as the day it was cut decades ago.” Cold water preserves the resource and adds a natural patina. Removal of the estimated 700,000 cords of underwater wood will help re-store the waterway’s natural eco-system. Note: Wood can scratch or dent and be susceptible to water damage. Even recycled wood might not be eco-friendly. “Wood reclaimed from manufacturing plants can contain machine oils, harsh chemical residue, lead paint or asbestos,”

explains Shafer. “Know where it came from; follow the chain of evidence.”

High Traffic, Pets, Long Life–Linoleum Linoleum is made from linseed oil, wood powder, resins and ground lime-stone. Mineral pigments provide rich color throughout, which prevents paler worn spots. A personalized pattern may include borders using linoleum sheets or tiles. It’s long-lasting, durable, fire-resistant, biodegradable, has no harmful volatile organic compounds (VOC) and repels dirt and dust. Note: Vinyl, made from unnatural chlorinated petrochemicals, won’t wear as well or last as long as linoleum.

Long-Lasting–Tile Bottles recycled into glass tile reflect light, brightening smaller rooms like the bath. Long-lasting ceramic or porcelain tile has no VOCs, is easy to clean and won’t host germs, bacteria or dust mites. Note: Look for lead-free glazed tile. Glass tile may be cost-prohibitive for larger spaces. Most tile can be slick when wet; texturing increases safety.

ECO-FRIENDLY FLOORSSustainable Beauty Underfoot

by Avery Mack


Child-, Pet- and Elder-Friendly, Warm and Comfy–Cork Cork is lightweight, flexible and can mimic stone, granite, tile, marble and wood, while providing comfortable cushioning. “Cork assumes the ambi-ent temperature in the room, keep-ing feet warmer. It holds up to dogs, too,” says Tim Tompkins, a Portuguese Cork Association committee member in Greenville, South Carolina. “Cork is both healthy for the consumer and sustainable for the environment.”

Note: Due to its cushioning nature, heavy furniture or high-heeled shoes may make indentations.

Wood-Like and Sturdy–Bamboo Bamboo generally regrows in three to five years, is twice as hard as red oak and can be stained almost any color. Edge-grained bamboo, banded together, turns flooring into a statement. Note: “It’s shipped from Asia and may have formaldehyde glues and

durability problems, so shop carefully,” advises David Bergman, a New York City green architect and author of Sus-tainable Design: A Critical Guide.

Long-Wearing Classic Look–Stone Travertine, limestone, granite, slate and marble are all stone flooring options. Stone can increase home value, has a classic look and is a piece of history that adds to any décor, although it’s not a renewable resource. Cork or non-petroleum-based laminated floors can give the look of stone without destroy-ing an in-situ natural resource. Note: Large blocks of stone are cut at quarries and transported to processing plants, cut into slabs and transported to a processor to be cut again, shaped and polished before being shipped to the store—a big carbon footprint.

The Great Imitator–Concrete Easy-to-clean, durable concrete never needs to be replaced. Small repairs

can be patched. Large repairs, such as a broken pipe beneath the surface, may require refinishing the entire floor to match the stain color. Some homeowners have created a faux rug using other stain colors to disguise the repaired area. Finishes can make concrete look like hardwood, painted tile, carpet, marble or granite, includ-ing terrazzo options. For an entryway, homeowners can design a custom welcome mat, perhaps incorporating a family crest, monogram or motto. Finishes can be textured to varying degrees to increase foot traction. Note: Ensure the structure is sturdy enough to bear the extra weight of con-crete. It feels cold underfoot in winter and cool in summer. Epoxy coatings don’t let concrete breathe, so any mois-ture emanating from the concrete slab will be trapped. Test for the moisture-vapor emission rate; problem areas can include sections covered by furniture.

Avery Mack is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect via [email protected].

A number of sustain-able flooring options

exist, including hard-wood, cork and woolen carpeting. Like many other naturally sourced products, sustainable flooring provides a num-ber of unique advantages. One of the more common options for sustainable flooring is bamboo. A fast-growing grass, bamboo can be fash-ioned into a flooring that is twice as hard as oak. Bamboo is available either as a solid wood, engineered, or as a strand-woven flooring, which is produced under intense pressure. Composed of interwoven and glued strands of bam-boo fiber, this third option provides an extremely strong, durable floor. Another attractive option for sustain-

able flooring is reclaimed lumber, which provides a unique aesthetic for each floor, because the harvested wood has aged in singular ways during its prior usage. Taken from bleachers, resawn timbers and antiquated

structures, a variety of hardwoods can be repurposed. Douglas fir, yellow pine, longleaf heart pine, and southern pine are just a few of the species of wood that can be recycled for flooring. For those seeking a patterned or tile floor, cork provides an interesting option. Quite possibly the greenest flooring of all, cork is manufactured from the bark of the cork oak tree. Only the bark is harvested, in a process that allows the tree to continue to thrive.

This bark replenishes itself each de-cade, making cork an eminently renew-able resource. Cork can be greatly compressed while still retaining its shape, giving rise to a subtle cushioning effect underfoot. It also exhibits numerous beneficial properties for heat retention, sound insulation and fire resistance. Due to the application of a unique and natural wax, it possesses allergenic properties, as well. Renewable carpeting is most often produced from wool and natural fibers. Wool’s inherent resistance to flammability allows this carpeting to be manufactured in a highly non-toxic fashion. Employing wool fiber, par-ticularly when untreated and undyed, greatly reduces indoor pollutant levels, while its natural structure inhibits retention of dirt and allergens.

Karen Totino is the owner of Green Conscience Home, in Saratoga Springs. For more information, call 518-306-5196 or visit Green-Conscience.com. See ad, page 16.

Alternative Flooring Options Abound

by Karen Totino


Stress saps energy, and Americans feel stressed more than ever, with 20 percent of us experiencing “extreme

stress” at least weekly, according to the American Institute of Stress. Could late- night TV and the ubiquitous presence of electronic devices be the culprits? Partly, according to information pub-lished by Harvard Medical School. While all light stimulates the brain, the blue light from electronic devices and some eco-light bulbs disrupt circadian rhythms, prevent production of melatonin and block deep, healthful, restorative sleep. Fortunately, there’s an easy remedy, say Harvard experts: Seek abundant exposure to bright natural sunlight, and then turn off all electronic devices an hour before bedtime. Some experts even suggest wearing orange-colored goggles for the last two waking hours to neutralize the energy-sucking blue rays. Here are a few more energy thieves and ways to neutralize them.

Avoid Energy VampiresProblem: We all know someone that exhausts us, according to Dr. Judith Orloff, Venice Beach, California, author of the new book, The Ecstasy of Sur-render. Maybe he or she talks endlessly about personal matters, is incessantly negative, a gossip or a guilt-tripper.

healingways

Solution: “Take control. Get in the driver’s seat,” advises Orloff. “Create a circle of positive people around you. Stay calm and centered. Distance your-self from energy vampires and if they’re family, limit time spent with them and establish boundaries.”

Recognize Time LeechesProblem: We fall into the black hole of Facebook or cute kitten videos. Hours pass and we fall behind in more pro-ductive activities and then feel drained and groggy.

Solution: Time management is essen-tial to preserving energy, says Orloff. Limit time spent on social media. Check email once or twice a day in-stead of every 15 minutes. “The Internet is addictive, almost like a drug,” explains Orloff. “When you’re online, your energy is cut off and you become a zombie; you’re not in your body. Take a technology fast. Talk to your mate. Make love. Go for a walk in the woods. See your best friend.”

Get Rid of ClutterProblem: We all have way too much “stuff,” says Linda Rauch Carter, author of Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life. “If you don’t have room, you shut

ENERGY BOOSTERSFour Ways to Recharge

by Kathleen Barnes


yourself off from the flow of energy in your home and become exhausted,” says the Tustin, California, feng shui expert. “When I ask a client to take half of the stuff off a shelf and then ask how it feels, they almost always take a deep breath. The clutter literally chokes off breath and vitality.”

Solution: “Clear out what isn’t need-ed,” counsels Carter. “Keep a balance by making it a habit when bringing new things into a home or work environ-ments to let go of a comparable number of old things at the same time.” Beware of clutter creep, the slow accumulation of energy-sapping clutter, she says. “I believe the lack of energy so many of us experience is a nearly undetectable, chronic energy drain that seems slight, yet over time becomes a big problem.”

Stop Electromagnetic PollutionProblem: We are all surrounded by energy-draining electromagnetic fields (EMF) from myriad electronic devices and systems in homes and offices, plus cell phone towers and transmission lines. All of these operate on frequen-cies that can be major energy drains, says Carter. Japanese research physician Ryoichi Ogawa found that 80 percent of his chronic fatigue patients were frequent users of electromagnetic tech-nologies (Omega-News).

Solution: Minimize indoor exposure to EMFs by using land lines with corded phones, power strips and shutting off elec-tricity to nonessential appliances when not in use. “I’ve been preaching this for 20 years,” says Carter. Protecting sleep space is a primary consideration. “Make sure no beds are near electrical outlets and cell phones. Get rid of cordless phones, which are like mini cell towers, right there in the house,” she adds. The easiest solution, Carter says, is to put bare feet on bare earth for 15 to 20 minutes a day. “It will pull some of that excess EMF charge right off of you.”

Kathleen Barnes is the author of numer-ous natural health books and publisher at Take Charge Books. Connect at [email protected].

More Ways to RechargeTake a walk. A brisk 10-minute walk gets the cobwebs out and neutralizes the four o’clock energy slump, says Dr. Judith Orloff. Just spending time outside is a simple, time-tested way of boosting energy. Recent Scottish research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine confirms the energy-enhancing power of nature in general, noting that people that live near trees have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Just Say No. “’No,’ is a complete sentence,” says Orloff. “You don’t have to be mean or angry about it; just firmly say ‘No,’ when someone asks you to do something you don’t want to do or because you already feel overcommitted or overwhelmed. You don’t have to explain or make excuses.” A commitment isn’t necessarily final either, remarks Orloff: “If you dread it and can’t delegate it, renegotiate the earlier agreement.”


calendarofeventsNOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 5th of the month and ad-here to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at AlbanyAwakenings.com (within calendar section).

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1Put 2014 Behind You and Create Your Vision for 2015 – 5-8pm. 3 hours of guided visualization, journaling, and meditation. Louise Finlayson, Ph.D., 1525 Western Avenue, Ste 1, Albany. Register: 518-218-0707.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3Svaroopa Yoga – Jan 3, 10, 24 & 31. 10:30-12pm. Back, neck or shoulder pain? Svaroopa Yoga is the answer! It’s gentle and effective. Space is limited, reserve early. $20 walk-in. $69 series. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info/preregister: 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4Restorative Yoga – 1-3pm. With Pam Lunz Medina, E-RYT. Receive the support of pillows, bolsters, blankets and loving hands as each participant rests deep in healing yoga poses. Euphoric practice to regenerate body, mind and soul. $20 advance. $25 door. Early registration suggested. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Register: 518-744-5565.Put 2014 Behind You and Create Your Vision for 2015 – 12-3pm. 3 hours of guided visualization, journaling, and meditation. Louise Finlayson, Ph.D., 1525 Western Avenue, Ste 1, Albany. Register: 518-218-0707.New Year Multi-Faith Kirtan – 6pm. Celebrate the new year with ecstatic chant and guided meditation. Unity’s “One Song” music team provides inspiring and uplifting music from various faith traditions along with readings and reflections from various sa-cred sources and a time for guided meditation. Unity Church, 21 King Ave, Albany. Info: 518-453-3603.

MONDAY JANUARY 5Yin Yoga – 6:30pm. Increase flexibility in the con-nective tissue of the body. Postures are held between 3-5 minutes. $10. Space is limited, reserve early. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info/preregister: 518-598-6968.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 6Medical Thermography – 5:30-6:30pm. Learn about its applications to medicine. Be empowered with early detection for preventive health care. Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, 28 Clinton St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-983-6564.LGBTQ and Allied Professionals Networking – 6-8pm. Wolff’s Biergarten, 165 Erie Blvd, Sche-nectady. $10 suggested donation. Info: Pride Center of the Capital Region, 518-462-6138.Beginners Yoga Series – 6:30-8:30pm. Four-week class suitable for all levels of ability, regardless of experience or background. $80 series. Register on-line. Namaste Yoga, 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-222-7470.Living the Happiness the Universe Intends for You – 6:30-8:30pm. Eight-week class. As we peel away everything that is unlike our true nature which is love; begin to live a life of joy, oneness with all creation and thankfulness. $160 series. Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton, Register: 518-423-3569.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 6Achieve Vibrant Health: Ayurveda 101 – Jan 6-27. 7-8pm. Four weeks. Bridgette Kinder will begin with the basics. Find out what one’s body type is and why knowing this vital information will lead to feeling and looking better than ever, no matter at what age. $140. Must preregister. Namaste Yoga 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga Spgs. Info/register online or: 518-222-7470.

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7Medical Thermography – 5:30-6:30pm. Learn about its applications to medicine. Be empowered with early detection for preventive health care. 2 Chelsea Pl, Clifton Park. RSVP: 518-983-6564.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 8Breastfeeding Café – 10:30am-12pm. For moms, their breastfed babies and toddlers with a certified lactation counselor available to answer any ques-tions or concerns. Anyone pregnant and thinking about breastfeeding welcome. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Info: 518-274-2229.Book Discussion Group – Jan 8, Feb 15, Mar 15. 1-3:30pm. Discussion of Tibetan Book of the Dead. $25. Patron Fee. $15 program fee. Shambhala Medi-tation Center of Albany, 747 Madison Ave, Flr 2. Register: 518-729-4055.Pure Essentials – 6-7pm. Learn the benefits and how to integrate pure essential oils into everyday life. Raffles, gifts and fun. Free. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rte. 9, Castleton. Details: 518-727-8626.New Year Clean Eating – 6-8:30pm. With Tamara Flanders. Jump-start New Year’s resolutions with several easy, healthy and refreshing recipes. Learn how to begin a new routine of clean and delicious cooking. $65. Different Drummer’s Kitchen, Stuyvesant Plaza, Rte 20/Western Ave, Albany. Preregistration required: 518-459-7990.

FRIDAY JANUARY 9Sound Meditation Group – 6:30-8pm. Sound is a powerful form of healing. Group experiences the benefits of sound meditation by practicing mantras. $15 advance. $20 door. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10Yoga/Live Music/Crystal Singing Bowls & Pyra-mids – 9:15-10:30am. Develop strength, balance and flexibility while fusing Hatha Yoga (asana, pranayama, meditation) with sound therapy. Hear Native American flute and crystal singing bowls and leave feeling rejuvenated and at peace. $15 walk in. $10 students. The Woman’s Club of Albany (men welcome too), 725 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-810-7646.Open Athletic Nia – 10-11am. Energizing and con-ditioning the body while increasing one’s physical fitness. Infusing the movement forms of martial arts, dance arts and healing arts. $20. Joy of Nia Move-ment, Guilderland. Info: 518-452-3679.Free Info Day at Reiki Rocks! – 10am-12pm. Stop in to learn about upcoming intuitive development classes. Learn about series that teaches practical intuition in everyday life. Taught by Brandon Russ, Certified Spiritual Counselor. Also information about upcoming Reiki and crystal workshops given by Toni Craft. 3 Computer Dr W, Ste 106, Albany. Info: 518-248-0995.Introduction to Feng Shui – 10am-12:30pm. With Brenda Cary-Jenks. Feng Shui literally means wind and water. Learn how to create harmony in personal life and home using Feng Shui principles. Bring photos, blueprints or drawings of personal space along with a notebook and pencil. $50. Registra-tion required before Jan 5. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Register: 518-744-5565.


SATURDAY, JANUARY 17The Quest for the Cure Continues: The Truth About Cancer – 9am-4pm. Jan 17 & 31. Join the professionals at Vitality Health Center for a life-saving docu-series. $159 in advance. $179 door. Lunch provided by New World Catering included. 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia/Glenville. Info: 518-372-4706.

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Match Your Spiritual Intentions with Financial Resolutions – 9:30-11:30am. With Laurie Bonser. Learn how to match spiritual intentions with New Year’s financial resolutions and gain skills to ap-proach this process with confidence and success. $15. Still Point Interfaith Retreat Center, 20 Still Point Rd, Mechanicville. Preregistration required by Jan 14: 518-312-7980.Albany Symphony Orchestra: Mendelssohn’s Scottish – 7:30pm. The Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave, Albany. Pricing/tickets: 518-465-3334.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18Snowshoe Adventure – 1-2:30pm. Get started with this fun sport and take a 0.9 mile hike on snowshoes. Explore the frozen landscape of the Pine Barrens and learn the basics of snowshoeing. Snowshoes provided to participants. Ages 7+. $3/pp. $5/family Preregistration required. Albany Pine Bush Discov-ery Center, 195 New Karner Rd, Albany. Register: 518-456-0655.Martin Luther King Day Film Event – 1:30-4pm. In the documentary, Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North, filmmaker Katrina Browne and nine family members explore their unspoken legacy as descendants from largest slave-trading family in US history and gain powerful new perspectives on the black/white divide and their understanding of racism and privilege. Q & A following with James DeWolf Perry, a family member who appears in the film. Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St. 518-584-7860.

Svaroopa Yoga – 10:30-12pm. See Jan 3 for details. $20 Walk In, $69 Series. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Bubba the Reading Dog – 11am. A special ap-pearance, helping kids strengthen their reading skills. Troy Public Library, 100 Second St. Info: 518-274-7071.Spiritual Saturday – 11am-4pm. Explore. Uncover. Discover. Aura photography, vibroacoustic harp therapy, card, rune and angel readings, divination sessions, Reiki, aromatherapy and much more. Tranquil Spirit Wellness, 1744 Rte 9, Castleton. Info: 518-336-4468.Food For Thought Discussion – 11:30am-12:30pm. Concerned about food sustainability is-sues? Considering chucking it all in and starting a farm? Wonder what’s in that processed cheese slice? This month’s discussion is Pandora’s Lunchbox: How Processed Food Took Over the American Meal by Melanie Warner. Free. Saratoga Farmer’s Market Lincoln Baths location in Saratoga Spa State Park. Info: 518-584-7860.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 12:30-1:30pm. Learn to make changes in life and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other tech-niques used. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10Pregnancy Project Gathering – 1pm. A casual potluck and social gathering of the maternal minds. Celebrate the launch and receive cop-ies of Natural Awakenings’ 2015 Pre/Postnatal Guide. Network with local families and birth and baby professionals in the Capital Region. A Space To Grow, 216 River St, Flr 2. Troy. RSVP: troyppgathering.eventbrite.com

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Divine Harmony Spiritualist Church Service – 4pm. Services include music, healing, laughter, great energy and messages from Spirit followed by a social hour. Children’s Lyceum activities held during service. Niskayuna Reformed Church, Fellowship Hall, 3041 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Niskayuna. Info: 518-213-4724.Community Kirtan – 7-9pm. Ecstatic chanting from the Indian Bhakti (devotional) tradition. Ev-eryone sings together from their hearts, regardless of ability. No experience or skill needed. Sing, dance or lie down and relax. Kids welcome with supervision. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 11Healing The Pain Of Loss – 1-4pm. With Brenda Jenks and Shannon Keyes Ciucevich. Loss can be painful, especially when its unresolved and affect-ing daily life. Using EFT, hypnosis and Brenda’s special ability to bridge the gap between worlds, heal the pain of loss. $77 advance. $87 door. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Music Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm. Healer April Hannah will lead a one-hour meditation with the sweet acoustic musical accompaniment of Dennis Dominick vibroacoustic therapist. $15. Namaste

Yoga, 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga. Info/preregister: 518-222-7470.

MONDAY JANUARY 12Incorporating Essential Oils Into Daily Life – 6-7:30pm. Discover how to use essential oils during cold and flu season. Already using essential oils? That’s great! Sample different oils, learn some new applications and share experience of using essential oils. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13Saratoga Stress Reduction Program – Jan 13-Mar 3. 5:15-6:45pm. Eight-week pain reduction and stress management classes begin. Note: All-day retreat (required) on Sun, Mar 1: 10:15am-2:45pm. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Ste 302, Saratoga Spgs. Preregistration required. 518-581-3180 x307.Open Beginner Night of Nia Dance – 6-7pm. Learn-ing the Nia 52 moves, connecting to joy and healing, while dancing to soul-stirring music. $20. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. Info: 518-452-3679.Finding Power, Spirit & Joy in Your Female Body – 6:30-8pm. Considering parenthood, a new mom or struggling with fertility issues? If so, then join in on an evening workshop about reclaiming one’s feminine power. Free. A Space To Grow, 216 River St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Register: 518-307-9810.

THURSDAY JANUARY 15Pathways to Family Wellness Group Gather-ing – 10:30am. Dr John Ferguson discusses how to start the year in a healthy way. Ferguson Family Chiropractic, 1783 Rte 9, Clifton Park. Info: 518-383-5595.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 6:45-7:45pm. Learn to make changes in life and become empow-ered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other techniques used. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

FRIDAY JANUARY 16Yoga Nidra – 6:30-8pm. Yoga nidra or “yogic sleep” is a sleep-like state which is among the deepest possible states of relaxation while still maintaining full consciousness. $15 advance. $20 door. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

SATURDAY JANUARY 17Saratoga Stress Reduction Program – Jan 17-Mar 7. 8:30-10am. Eight-week pain reduction and stress management classes begin. Note: All-day retreat (required) on Sun, Mar 1: 10:15am-2:45pm. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Ste 302, Saratoga Spgs. Preregistration required. 518-581-3180 x307.Nine Keys to Abundance & Prosperity Workshop – 9am-12pm & 1-4pm. With Brenda Jenks and Shan-non Keyes Ciucevich. De-clutter, remove blockages from (and create space within) the chakras using hypnosis, EFT and Feng Shui. Stop blocking and start attracting abundance and prosperity. Receive Feng Shui abundance kit and hypnosis recording. $137 advance, $147 door. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.


small MELT hand and foot treatment balls to reduce inflammation and pain. Eliminate stuck stress before it accumulates causing chronic aches and pains. $45 series. $20 walk-in, Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25The Science of Climate Change – 2-3:30pm. Dr. Mimi Katz will provide an overview of data and evidence that shows changes in climate and greenhouse gases through the early 21st century. East Greenbush Community Library, 10 Com-munity Way. Info: 518-477-7476.

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Foundations of Breastfeeding – 3-4:15pm. A breastfeeding class meeting two consecutive Sundays to help mom and partner learn the basics of having a successful breastfeeding relationship. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Info: 518-274-2229.Capital Area Music Awards “CAMMYS” – 5pm. The 2015 awards night features live performances from six of the areas hottest bands and musicians, a multimedia projection show and official pre-show sushi dinner reception and after-party. $12.50 ad-vance, $15 door. The Linda: WAMC Theatre, 339 Central Ave, Albany. Info: 518-465-5233.

MONDAY, JANUARY 26Lactation Love – 10-11am. Pregnant or breastfeed-ing? Join Lactation Counselor, Erin Cabral for tea and a chat. Children welcome. Free. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Register: 508-837-0139.Soul Café Albany Community Meal – 6-8pm. Intended to bring together diverse neighborhoods and build strong relationships in the community.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20Medical Thermography Open House – 5:30-pm. Come meet the people behind Medical Thermogra-phy Associates and learn about thermography and its use for preventive health care. 2 Chelsea Pl, Clifton Park. RSVP: 518-983-6564.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21So You Wanna Have a Baby?: The Ultimate Childbirth Course – 6:30-7:15pm. Learn how to achieve an ideal pregnancy, birth and how to care for one’s new baby. Ferguson Family Chiropractic, 1783 Rte 9 Clifton Park. RSVP required by Jan 19: 518-383-5595.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22Change Your Life From The Inside Out: Wellness Workshop Series – Jan 22, Feb 26, & Mar 26. 7-8pm. With Life Coach Teri Tomas. Workshop series will be held monthly for three months. Orenda Yoga & Healing Arts, 457 Rte 146, Guilderland Center. Register online. Info: 518-861-5714.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23Acupuncture Open House – 3-7pm. Ashley Wells, LAc will be giving free consultations and relaxation treatments in the quiet, community acupuncture setting. Free. 518 Acupuncture, 632 Plank Rd, Ste 202, Clifton Park. Info: 518-416-1846.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24Yoga/Live Music/Crystal Singing Bowls & Pyra-mids – 9:15-10:30am. Develop strength, balance and flexibility while fusing Hatha Yoga (asana, pranayama, meditation) with sound therapy. Hear Native American flute and crystal singing bowls and leave feeling rejuvenated and at peace. $15 walk in. $10 students. The Woman’s Club of Albany (men welcome too), 725 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-810-7646.Svaroopa Yoga – 10:30-12pm. See Jan 3 for details. $20 walk-in, $69 series. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Healing The Healer: A Yoga Intensive for Helping Professionals – 11am-5pm. With Loretta Pyles and Andrea Fortuin. $75 includes vegan lunch. Orenda Yoga & Healing Arts, 457 Rte 146, Guilderland Center. Info/register: 518-861-5714.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25MELT Workshop Series – Jan 25, Feb 1 & Feb 8. 12-1pm. Using specialized soft body rollers and

Suggested donation $5 adults. $3 kids. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 85 Chestnut St, Albany. Info: 518-605-4223.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 30Preview of the Beginner Signing Smart Play Class – 10:30-11am. Class offers a sample of several of signs, songs and parent strategies that participants will learn throughout the six-week series. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Info: 518-274-2229.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31The Quest for the Cure Continues: The Truth About Cancer – 9am-4pm. See Jan 17 for details. 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia/Glenville. Info: 518-372-4706.Svaroopa Yoga – 10:30-12pm. See Jan 3 for details. $20 walk-in, $69 series. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Winter Festival – 1-4pm. Annual Winter Festival with tons of fun for all ages in the snow, typically including ice skating, guided snowshoe hikes and a snow/ice luge and sled run. Live animal demonstra-tion, local vendors and much more. Huyck Preserve & Biological Research Station, 5052 Delaware Turnpike, Rensselaerville. Details: 585-797-3440.Paint Your New Year’s Stemware – 6-8pm. Be led step-by-step in choosing a design and then creating an original painted stemware or go crazy and paint one’s own design! Facilitated by Sarah Glover of Enlightened Easels. $25. Preregistration required. Tranquil Spirit Wellness, 1744 Rte 9, Castleton. 518-364-9432.

plan aheadSATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28 - SUNDAY, MARCH 1

NY Women’s Expo 2014 – Feb 28 & Mar 1. 10am-6pm/Sat; 10am-4pm/Sun. The ultimate shopping and entertainment experience for women with over 150 exhibits showcasing the best of the Capital Region. Seminars and demon-strations. Siena College, Marcelle Athletic Com-plex, Loudonville. Info: NYWomensExpo.com.

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ongoingcalendarNOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 5th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at AlbanyAwakenings.com (within calendar section).

sundayDharma Meditation – 9-10am. With Pierre Zim-merman. Weekly meditation followed up by short discussion. All contemplative traditions honored. $10 donation. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Sara-toga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624.Sutra Sunday Sadhana – 9:30-11am. Vinyasa flow class bringing perfect balance of spirituality and sweat. No better way to start the day or week. $20 drop-in. Yoga Mandali, 454 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-584-0807.Schenectady Winter Market – 10am-2pm through April. More than 70 vendors who produce every-thing they sell. Local musicians perform. Held every Sunday, except Easter. Inside Proctor’s Theatre, 432 State St, Schenectady.HOPE Pet Adoption Clinic – 1-4pm. 2nd & 4th Sun. Homes for Orphaned Pets Exist will be holding an adoption clinic. Wilton Mall, 3065 New York 50, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-428-2994.Kids Yoga – 3:30-4:45pm. Ages 4-9. Encouraging creativity, teamwork and imaginative thinking. Pro-motes improved concentration and breath awareness. $10-$12/class. YANA Yoga & Healing Arts, 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Ste 42, Malta. 518-522-5472.Multi-Faith Music & Meditation – 6pm. Featuring chants and songs from various faith traditions: Sansksrit chants, non-denominational chants, spiritual and gospel songs and original songs by Unity music team led by Roger Mock. Readings and reflections from various sacred sources and a time for guided meditation. Unity Church, 21 King Ave, Albany. 518-453-3603.Meditation for World Peace – 6:30-7:30pm. 3rd Sun. Observe as the universe is filled with energy of lightness, radiance and peace. Together, peace, love and care will be sent to the world. For new and experienced meditators. Free. Peace Village, Haines Falls. 518-589-5000.

mondayJazz/Contemporary Dance – 10:45-11:45am. A fun-filled mix of “old school” jazz dance technique, with Broadway and contemporary/expressive movement styles. All levels. $12/class, Albany Dance & Fitness, 1197 Central Ave, Albany. 518-573-3631.Reflexology – 2:30-5:30pm. A method of using simple, time-tested methods of pressing, pulling and massaging for the purpose of providing pain relief. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. Info/appt time: 518-482-2667.Gentle Yoga & Meditation – 4:45pm. A beautiful blend of gentle and kind yoga poses to release ten-sion and discomfort leading into healing meditation practices (both seated and supine). Lead by Pam Lunz Medina, E-RYT. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Registration required: 518-744-5565.

Ashtanga Yoga – 5:30-6:45pm. With Jo Page. A powerful and meditative expression of yoga. $15 drop-in. Yoga Bliss on the Blvd, 140 Erie Blvd, Schenectady. Info: 518-894-7086.Hot Warrior Yoga – 6pm. 50 plus posture practice combining hot hatha and hot vinyasa in an 85-degree room. A physical and psychological challenge. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Prenatal Yoga – 6:15-7:45pm. Designed to improve the pregnancy and after birth experience by strength-ening the pelvic, abdominal and hip muscles as well as improving breath and mind control to help with labor and delivery and the challenges of caring for a newborn. No yoga experience necessary. $12-$15/class. YANA Yoga & Healing Arts, 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Ste 42, Malta. 518-522-5472.Overeaters Anonymous Support Group – 7:30pm. St. George Episcopal Church, 1912 Rte 146, Clifton Park. No meetings on holidays. Info: 518-384-1619.

tuesdayQiGong – 8:15-9:15am. With Deborah Guilfoyle. Feel energized and peaceful at once in this practice of moving meditation. $15 drop-in. Yoga Bliss on the Blvd, 140 Erie Blvd, Schenectady. Info: 518-894-7086.Chair Yoga – 9:30am. With Kathleen McDermott. Orenda Yoga & Healing Arts, 457 Rte 146, Guilder-land Center. Register online. Info: 518-861-5714.Children’s Creative Yoga – 10-11am. Ages 4-6. A unique blend of yoga and art class focusing that exuberant energy and creating a more balanced mind, body and spirit. $12 drop-in. $45 monthly. A Healing Art Sanctuary, 154 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa. Register: 518-530-2122.Body Fat Screening/Blood Pressure Testing – 11am-2pm. Testing body fat and blood pressure to then translate those numbers into healthy informa-tion. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Waterv-liet Ave, Albany. Info: 518-482-2667.Relax/Renew/Rejuvenate – 12:15-1pm. Series of gentle wellness and self-care exercises designed

to nurture, balance and revitalize body, mind and whole being. $10/class, Albany Dance & Fitness, 1197 Central Ave, Albany. 518-573-3631.Five Element Qi Gong – 12:30-1:30pm. Energize and regulate the body while creating a tranquil state of mind. Limit five per class. $15 or discount with registration of four classes. 518 Acupuncture, 632 Plank Rd, Ste 202, Clifton Park. Info/register: 518-416-1846.Mommy & Me Yoga – 2-3pm. For new moms and their pre-walking babies. Special time with mom and baby enjoying playful, gentle poses, baby massage, simple song and postures. $12-15/class. YANA Yoga & Wellness. 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Ste 42, Malta. 518-522-5472.Kids’ Yoga – 4:45pm. Children are by nature natural yogis. Class designed to keep them flexible, develop strength, build healthy posture, have fun and learn stress management techniques. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Registration required: 518-744-5565.Detox Yoga – 5:45-7pm. Twists, massage and con-scious breathing will assist all elimination systems, circulatory, digestive and lymph. Also purge toxic thoughts by moving awareness from chaos to present moment for a calmer mind. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Vinyasa Flow – 5:45-7pm. With Monika Ostrowidzki. Vinyasa means to “place in a special way”. Continuous moving meditation linking breath with movement for rejuvenation, clarity and harmony. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Lyme Support Group – 6pm. 2nd Tues. Share sto-ries, frustrations and achievements. Find support and guidance. All welcome. Free. The Stram Center for Integrative Medicine, 388 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. Register: 518 689-2244.Tea Talk – 6pm. 2nd Tues. New topics each month. Samples of the featured tea served. $5. Short and Stout Tea, 1736 Western Ave, Albany. Preregister/Info: 518-456-8327.Awareness Through Movement – 6:30-7:30pm. Feldenkrais class is a series of gentle movement sequences that enhance personal awareness, posture, balance and flexibility. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Register: 518-545-4606.Learn Hypnosis – 6:30-8:30pm. With NGH Hyp-nosis Trainer. Practice hypnosis skills, learn new hypnosis skills or satisfy a curiosity about hypnosis and how it can complement current work. Albany. Info/location: 518-256-6549.Living the Happiness the Universe Intends for You Class – 6:30-8:30pm through Feb 24. Eight-week class. As we peel away everything that is un-like our true nature which is love; begin to live a life of joy, oneness with all creation and thankfulness. $160 series. Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton, 518-423-3569.Taiji (Tai Chi) – 7pm. With Renjie Song. Learn the basic Yang style postures, movements and internal energy development. $15. One Big Roof, 433 Broad-way, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624.Intermediate Hatha Yoga – 7:30-8:45pm. Work with skillfully sequenced practices that will include various levels of asana, pranayama and meditations. Focus on the proper alignment of the body in order to obtain the maximum benefit and uniting move-ment with breath. Lilananda Yoga, 585 Saratoga Rd, Glenville. Register online or: 518-470-5240.


wednesdayIntuitive Readings – 11am-2pm. With Julie. $40/30-min. Crossroads Gifts and Wellness, 133 Jay St, Schenectady. Info/appt: 518-357-8366.Gentle, Slow Yoga Class – 12-1pm. With Diane Simpson. Perfect for beginners, those new to yoga and people wanting to deepen their yoga practice in a slow, mindful class. Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts, 10 2nd St, Troy. Drop-ins welcome. Info: 518-283-6706.Children’s Creative Yoga – 5-6pm. Ages 7 and up. A unique blend of yoga and art class focusing that exuberant energy and creating a more balanced mind, body and spirit. $12 drop-in. $45 monthly. A Healing Art Sanctuary, 154 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa. Register: 518-530-2122.The Quest for the Cure Continues: The Truth About Cancer – Jan 7-Mar 18. 6-8pm. Join the pro-fessionals at Vitality Health Center for a life-saving docu-series running for 11 consecutive weeks. $10/week. $99 series. 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia/Glenville. Info: 518-372-4706.Family Support Group: for Caregivers of Loved Ones with Mental Illness – 6:30-8pm. 1st and 3rd Wed. SUNYA School of Public Health, 1 University Pl, Rensselaer. Info: 518-588-6949.Five Element Qi Gong – 7-8pm. Energize and regu-late the body while creating a tranquil state of mind. Limit fi ve per class. $15 or discount with registration of four classes. 518 Acupuncture, 632 Plank Rd, Ste 202, Clifton Park. Info/register: 518-416-1846.40 Day Inner rEvolution – Jan 28-Mar 11. 7:30pm.

Six-weeks of unlimited yoga and meditation classes and once weekly group meetings lead by yoga trainer Pam Lunz Medina, E-RYT. Develop healthy living practices; cultivate motivation, positive thinking and more. Discover a more balanced way of being in the New Year. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Registration required: 518-744-5565.

thursdayMindful Moments for Parents – 9:30-10:30am Meditation and mindful movement practices for busy parents. Nourish and strengthen mind, body and spirit. Relax, renew and refresh. Healthy parents, healthy families, peaceful homes. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, Troy. Register: 518-545-4606.Cancer Support Group – 12-1pm. Every other Thurs. Release feelings of isolation, confusion, anxiety, identity crisis and day-to-day uncertain-ties among people wanting to improve their quality of life. Donations welcome. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Preregistration required. Info/dates: 518-450-1624.Belly Dance – 3-4pm. With Sarah Best. Celebrate joy of dancing and let that inner goddess shine. $15 drop-in. Yoga Bliss on the Blvd, 140 Erie Blvd, Schenectady. Info: 518-894-7086.Kripalu Yoga to Awaken Your Heart – 5:30-7pm. With Rita Grand. Strengthen the body, increase fl ex-ibility and quiet the mind. Promotes self-acceptance, inner wisdom, peace and authenticity. Drop-ins welcome, $15.One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. 518-450-1624.

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classifiedsFor fees and info on placing classifieds, email [email protected]. Deadline is the 5th of the month.

Holistic Moms Network – 6pm. 1st Thurs. Con-nect with like-minded moms and dads and catch the excitement of the holistic community. Monthly topics and discussions. Kids welcome at meetings but be mindful of the presenter and participants. Community Room at Clifton Park Center Mall, 22 Clifton Country Rd. Info: 518-664-6116.Meeting of Albany Holistic Nurses Society, Inc – 6pm. 2nd Thurs. Support and information for nurses and interested individuals. Monthly meetings and top-ics. Details/location, Sandra Marnell: 518 875-6050.Zumba – 6-7pm. Workout combining Latin and international music with dance moves. No dance experience necessary. $7/class or $60/10 classes. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rte 9, Castle-ton. Info: 518-269-0975.Yoga for Brest Cancer – 6:15-7:30pm. Ease pain, fatigue and depression among women battling breast cancer. Improve range of motion, pain management, releasing scar tissue and building, restoring muscle elasticity and movement, calming the mind and re-newing the spirit. YANA Yoga & Healing Arts, 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Ste 42, Malta. 518-522-5472.Makeup Class – 6:30pm. 3rd Thurs. New topic each month. $20. bloom. Salon and Makeup Bar, 5 Maple Ave, Voorheesville. RSVP required: 518-655-0043.Classical Hatha Yoga – 6:30-7:45pm. Practice in its purest state. Reduce stress and pain. $15 drop-in. $70 six classes. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia. Register: 518-372-4706.Mom’s Night Out/Breastfeeding Support – 6:30-8:30pm. 3rd Thurs. Join Dr Jess and Lori Kohler, RN, CLC for a relaxing evening of conversation around breastfeeding and other holistic health top-ics. Bring baby and questions needing answers. Tea and gluten/dairy free snacks provided. Offi ce of Jessica Davis MD, 781 Hudson Ave, Stillwater. Info: 877-664-6116.Salon de Consciousness: What Else is Possible? – 7-8:30pm. 3rd Thurs. We are all miraculous creators and being conscious of how we create and what we create is an art. Learn to create oneself moment by moment then see how the world miraculously changes. Discover how to master this art through yoga, discussion and yoga nidra. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.

Poetry Night – 7:30pm. 3rd Thurs. Open mic for com-munity poets. $3 suggested donation. Social Justice Center, 33 Central Ave, Albany. Info: 518-482-0262.

fridayKundalini Yoga – 9:30-11am. Taught by Yogi Bhajan, Kim Rossi. Donation. Lincoln Bath House at the Saratoga Spa State Park, front door entrance, to the rear of the 1st Flr, 39 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-321-5660.Parents’ Night Out at Tiny Tots Tea Room – 5:30-9pm. 3rd Fri. Monthly event includes babysitting, open play, food, crafts and drinks. $35 fi rst child; $25 siblings. 1536 Crescent Rd, Plaza 8, Clifton Park. Info: 518-348-1050.

saturdayHooping – 8am. Tone the body, loosen the hips and free the mind. Learn how to keep the hoop up, do funky tricks and dance with the sacred hoop to great music. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Registration required: 518-744-5565.Saturday Shake-Up – 9-10am. A different dance or fi t-ness class each week. For teens and adults only. Includ-ing Barre, PiYo, Dance Fitness, Jazz and more. Contact us for the schedule. . $5-$12/class. Albany Dance & Fitness, 1197 Central Ave, Albany. 518-573-3631.Wake Up Warm Power Flow – 9:30-10:45am. In a warm room we will focus on alignment, building strength and conscious breath to move through the poses and fi nish in Savasana. Great for beginner and intermediate students. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Live Music Saturday Brunch – 10am-12pm. Alternat-ing weeks. Good food, music and vibes. Good Morning Breakfast Café, 2100 Doubleday Ave, Ballston Spa. Dates/info: Facebook page. 518- 309-3359.Children’s Healing Crafts– 11am-12pm. Ages 7 and up. Let the imagination go and leave the elec-tronics at home! A wonderful opportunity for young ones to let their creativity abound using different artistic mediums with an emphasis on recycling and healing Mother Earth. $12 drop-in. $45 monthly. A Healing Art Sanctuary, 154 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa. Register: 518-530-2122. Gong Lab – 4-5:30pm. 1st Sat. Relaxation and meditation in a sonic environment. By donation. Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts, 10 2nd St, Troy. Info: 518-389-2200.Holistic Moms Network – 6:30-8:30pm. 2nd Fri. Troy Chapter Monthly Meeting: A non-profi t group connecting parents who are interested in holistic health and green living. Monthly topics posted online. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, Troy. Info: Chapter Leader Erica Svatek, 518-225-7243.

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.

~Martin Luther King, Jr.

CONTRIBUTIONS NEEDED

PEACEFUL ACRES HORSES – This beloved sanctuary is raising funds for new shelters needed for its rescued horses. Contribute through PayPal via PeacefulAcresHorses.com or mail checks to 3740 Rynex Corners Rd., Pattersonville, NY 12137.

GREEN CLEANERS

SHAKLEE – Earth friendly cleaners since 1960. Always safe, always work, always green! Evan Lawrence, Independent Distributor. 518-677-5662, healthyevan.myshaklee.com.

HELP WANTED

HEALTHY LIVING MARKET – Many open positions at the Wilton store. Apply online: HealthyLivingMarket.com.

MAIL ORDER

AZUREGREEN.NET – Herbs, books, mortars and pestles, bumper stickers, jewelry, incense, gift items, gemstones, amulets, statuary. 8,000 items. Wholesale and retail.

SINGERS WANTED

CAPITAL COMMNUNITY VOICES – Join this SATB community chorus, meeting weekly for rehearsals leading to a May, 2015 concert. Rehears-als and performance in East Greenbush. Contact: [email protected].

VACATION RENTAL

TREASURE BEACH, JAMAICA – Don’t be left out in the cold this winter! Group rates available in this beautiful villa by the sea. Info: 518-432-0736 or AvitaVilla.com. See ad, page 6.

VENDORS WANTED

2015 NY WOMEN’S EXPO – 2/28-3/1. Reserve your space today for this highly anticipated event held at Siena College. 518-479-3976 or NYWom-ensExpo.com. See ad, page 2.

VOLUNTEER

FRANKLIN COMMUNITY CENTER – Com-plete a volunteer application online to be considered for Saratoga Springs after-school programs, Project Lift or distribution center hours. Visit FranklinCom-munityCenter.org or call Jaime: 518-587-9826.

WEB DESIGN

ROGER LIPERA WEB DESIGN & CONSULT-ING – Guilderland. 518-248-4175. Lipera.com. See ad, page 46.

WEIGHT LOSS

ALBANY – Hypnosis helps with weight loss, smok-ing cessation, stress reduction, releasing worries and fears, sleep issues, negative emotions. Info: AlbanyHypnosisCenter.com. See ad, page 46.


Connecting you with local businesses and experts in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Natural Directory, email [email protected].

ACUPUNCTURE

518 ACUPUNCTUREAshley Wells, LAc., MS, MA632 Plank Rd, Ste 202, Clifton Park518-416-1846518acu.com

A high-quality, affordable clinic that strives to be accessible for the g r e a t e r C a p i t a l R e g i o n . C o m m u n i t y a c u p u n c t u r e appointments: $20-40. Private appointments, Chinese massage, qigong, herbal recommendations, facial rejuvenation, dietary therapy

also available. Free consultations.

VICTOR TULCHINSKY, D.O.Family Physician/Medical Acupuncture255 Lark St, Albany518-482-1570DrVictorTulchinsky.com

Family medicine and Japanese/Chinese classical acupuncture for health and wellness. Treating chronic disease, TMJ, migraines and other conditions not treated by western medicine. Available by appointment. Off-street parking. See ad, page 22.

VITALITY ACUPUNCTURE Michele Dolan L.Ac, AcupuncturistAt Albany Total Wellness130 Everett Rd, Albany 518-435-1280MicheleDolanLAc.com

Acupuncture and herbal therapy are an all-natural alternative to improving well-being, preventing illness and resolving some of the most common health issues. See ad, page 9.

ART THERAPY

ANN SIMPSON-MCDOWELL, MA, LCAT1471 Rte 9, Ste 201, Crescent Commons, Clifton Park • 518-982-5376HavenOfHopeCounseling.com

Licensed Creative Art Therapist. 20+ years’ experience in grief work , a l l losses , and l i fe change adaptation. Offering compassionate counsel ing, therapeutic art and sand tray work for all ages.

BODYWORK

BODYWORK PROFESSIONALSNick PavoldiStructural Integration Practitioner, Proprietor578 New Loudon Rd, Latham • 518-389-220079 Washington St, Saratoga Springs • 518-389-2083BodyworkProfessionals.com

Bodywork Professionals are sk i l l ed , ded ica ted , ca ree r therapists who specialize in the art and science of effective soft tissue massage therapy and a variety of bodywork modalities. See ad, page 35.

CHIROPRACTIC

DR. JOHN M. FERGUSONFerguson Family Chiropractic1783 Rte 9, Clifton Park518-383-5595 • ForLifetimeWellness.com

The “Chiropractor for your family”. With 10 years of pediatric/family wellness care experience, Dr. John is committed to healthy lifestyle changes for the family. See ad, page 7.

DR. TERRY DHANJAL-GARCHAFamily Chiropractic & Wellness56 Clifton Country Rd, #104, Clifton Park518-357-3262 • DrGarchaChiropractic.com

Over 20 years of experience in medical/alternative health care. Holistic approach to wellness. Specializing in instrumental spinal adjustment, rehabilitation, ZYTO body scan, cold laser, color glass therapy, supplements and detoxification.

DR. KERSTIN MEDWIN, DCAt Albany Total Wellness130 Everett Rd, Albany518-435-1280 • MedwinChiropractic.com

Over 9 years’ experience working as a chiropractor. Establishes car ing and compass iona te relationships with each and every patient. See ad, page 9.

naturaldirectory DR. JACLYN PURCELLSaratoga Chiropractic376 Broadway, Ste L4, Saratoga Springs518-435-1280 • SaratogaChiropractic.com

Chiropractic for people of all ages. From pain to maintaining optimal health. Helping clients heal naturally and improve quality of life.

CHILDREN’S HEALING ARTSA HEALING ART SANCTUARY154 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa • [email protected] Facebook: ahealingartsanctuary

Inspir ing heal ing through eclectic and artistic venues. O f f e r i n g a r t , y o g a a n d aromatherapy for all ages. Seniors welcome too. Birthday

parties available. Retail shop includes: jewelry, stones, original art, Native American art, inspirational signs, essential oils and more.

COACHINGLOUISE M. FINLAYSON, PH.D.1525 Western Ave, Ste 1, Albany518-218-0707 LouiseFinlayson.com

Helping clients focus their attention on what they want to create in their lives; guiding them to discover their WHY, their passions, their purpose, to let go of self-limiting beliefs and to step into effective action to create

fulfillment and meaning in their lives.

MY TRUE PLACETRANSFORMATION COACHINGElana Davidson, TK413-259-4369 • MyTruePlace.com

Transform whatever stops you or holds you back from creating an amazing life. When you embrace yourself fully, what else is possible for you and your life? Let's find out. Serving the Hudson Valley, Berkshires and beyond.

WOMEN’S HEALTH & HEALINGCarol Gardner, RN, [email protected] • 518-312-8791WomensHealthAndHealing.com

Coaching women to effectively discover strength and wisdom to support the body, mind and spirit; especially during life changes including retirement, divorce, chronic illness, grief and loss.


ENERGY FOR HEALTH & HEALING, LLCJack Treiber, BS518-225-4692EnergyForHealthAndHealing.com

Over 20 years of energy healing experience. Using advanced, deep and powerful techniques to help clients feel better and achieve balance. Practicing in Clifton Park and Saratoga See ad, page 35.

SLEEPING DRAGON REIKIElisabeth Rolfe, RP IARPCrossroads Gifts & Wellness518-357-8366

Reiki and intuitive energy sessions by appointment at Crossroads Gifts & Wellness on Jay Street in Downtown Schenectady.

THE ART OF REIKIJoyce Willson, RN, BSN, RMT, IET251 River St, Ste 401, Troy, NY 12180518-271-7802 • TheArtOfReiki.com

Bringing passion, experience and knowledge with Reiki and Integrated Energy Therapy (IET) plus 30+ years of nursing experience to focus on wellness as well as health issues of each individual.

THE REIKI PATHBob Weissberg, Usui Reiki Master518-390-0299

Reiki gently promotes relaxation, pain relief, healing, wellness and deep spiritual connection. Offering traditional Usui Reiki treatment since 1999, teaching since 2004.

FENG SHUI/SPACE CLEARING

BRENDA C. JENKS518-321-5940FengShuiBCJ.com

Assesses physical and non-physical influences in a home or business and suggests appropriate adjustments to ensure environment s u p p o r t s o n e p h y s i c a l l y, emotionally and financially. 18+ years’ experience serving the Capital District and beyond.

FINANCIAL HEALTH

CHANGING TIMES PLANNINGLaurie Bonser, CFP, CPA, CoachLaurie@ChangingTimesPlanning.com518-312-7980ChangingTimesPlanning.com

I n n o v a t i v e p l a n n i n g a n d information for financial health, wellness, and fitness through all life transitions, changes, and goals. Available for clients nationwide. See ad, page 12..

FITNESS

ALBANY DANCE & FITNESSGail Tassarotti, Owner/Instructor1197 Central Ave, Albany518-573-3631 • AlbanyDanceFitness.com

Relieve stress and feel positive about yourself as you get fit. Offering a variety of classes for all ability levels (adults and teens only). See ad, page 13.

JOY OF NIA MOVEMENTBeth FosterBlack Belt Nia Teacher & Owner 3 Denny Rd, Guilderland518-452-3679 • JoyOfNiaMovement.com

Exper ience the energe t ic , expressive and joyful way to exercise. Free your spirit and move with passion as you connect to your body through the movement of Nia. Small, year-round classes in a comfortable

studio open to all fitness levels. See ad, page 11.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

HEALTHY ENDEAVORS MEDICINE, PCANITA BUROCK STOTTS, MD2592 Western Ave, Ste 102, Altamont518-355-2060 • HealthyEndeavorsMED.com

Functional Medicine is a dynamic approach to assessing, preventing and treating complex chronic disease. It is science-based and patient-centered. See ad, page 19.

GREEN BUILDING/DESIGN

GREEN CONSCIENCE HOMEKaren Totino33 Church St, Saratoga Springs 518-306-5196 • Green-Conscience.com

Specializing in green home renovation for families and businesses. Supplier of non-toxic interior finishes for walls, floors, counter tops. Showroom features natural and organic mattresses, and bedding. See ad, page 16.

COUNSELING

BERNARD A. AMYOT, MS, MA, LMHC1471 Rte 9, Ste 201, Crescent Commons, Clifton Park • 518-982-5376 HavenOfHopeCounseling.com

20+ years’ experience in grief/loss and life transition counseling. Focus on sudden death loss, d ivorce/separa t ion, family relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. Using CBT and companioning counseling model.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

K. MICHELLE DOYLE, BCST, RN, NYS LM35 Dearstyne Rd, Troy • 518-238-3469 [email protected]

Biodynamic craniosacral therapy is a subtle yet deeply relaxing form of body work that employs light touch. Offering BCST to infants, children, and adults.

DETOXIFICATIONSUSAN BROWN, MS, CNAt Vitality Health Center3441 Amsterdam Rd (Rte 5), Scotia518-372-4706 • GetVitalHealth.com

Combining traditional remedies using whole foods, herbals and Reiki with modern detoxification therapies such as detoxifying foot baths, Rife machine and Live Cell microscopy to support our innate healing abilities. See ad, page 3.

ENERGY HEALING

TONI CRAFTAlbany-Saratoga3 Computer Dr W, Ste 106, Albany518-248-0995 • ToniCraft.com

Offering Reiki, which is spiritually guided energy balancing for body mind and spirit. Working on

both people and animals. Home or barn visits available. Crystal gridding for home and business. Reiki classes and crystals for sale.

EMOTIONAL HEALING WITH ENERGY THERAPYMelinda Lippert, BA, CECP, CYTServing the Capital District and beyond518-380-2031 • MelindaLippert.com

Gentle yet powerful techniques to release emotional baggage and heal emotional trauma. Emotion Code, EFT tapping, yoga, and more. Specializing in heart walls, infertility, and chronic illness.


GREEN LIVINGEARTHLY REMEDIES BY ERINErin Ethier, Owner518-534-3003Info@EarthlyRemediesByErin.comEarthlyRemediesByErin.com

The Capital District’s source for all-natural hand salves, lip balms, h e r b a l t i n c t u r e s ,

deodorants, baby products, pet products and more; all made locally with only the best organic ingredients.

HERBS

JEAN'S GREENSHerbal Tea Works & Herbal Essentials1545 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack518-479-0471 • JeansGreens.com

Gifts from the Earth for you and yours. Offering quality organic and wild-crafted herbs, teas, tinctures, essential oils, books, gifts , and bath and beauty products, as well as a variety of supplies for making your own

products. Free catalog available.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

DR. FREDERICK DREHER410 Rowland St, Ballston Spa518-885-6185 • NoMercDoc.com

Combining a holistic approach that treats the teeth and the mouth, realizing the connection between dental health and whole-body wellness. Safe mercury removal. See ad, page 10.

HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE

GUILDERLAND HOMEOPATHIC CLINICLarry Malerba, DO • Mary Malerba, RN2592 Western Ave, Guilderland518-357-4210 • DocMalerba.com

Safe, FDA-approved, holistic medical care for body, heart, mind & soul. 25 years’ experience treating all types of medical conditions in children and adults.

HOMEOPATHY

JEROME MICHAEL PINDELLNiskayuna, Clifton Park & NYC518-374-5492 • [email protected]

Using homeopathy, hypnosis, jin shin jyutsu, and intuitive-based counseling in a comprehensive wholistic healing practice. Poet and author of Training Tracks,poems by implosion, available through Amazon.com.

HYPNOSIS

ALBANY HYPNOSIS CENTERDeborah Nettles, CH251 New Karner Rd, Albany518-275-7388 AlbanyHypnosisCenter.com

Hypnosis services to lose weight, stop smoking, gain confidence, release worries, stress and fears. Providing private sessions, seminars and

stage performances. Free screening appointment is available to learn about hypnosis. See ad, page 46.

SHANNON KEYES CIUCEVICH Key 2 Joy – Hypnosis145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie518-598-6968 • Key2Joy.net

Lose weight, stop smoking and release stress with hypnosis. Rece ive a f r ee hypnos i s sc reening and learn how hypnos i s c an a s s i s t you discovering the Key 2 Joy within you. See ad, page 11.

GEORGE GUARINO, CH, CINGH Certified Hypnotist & InstructorAlbany • Delmar • Clifton Park518-256-6549 • HypnosisWorksWell.com

Feel good, feel well and be happy. Change old habits and smile. Discover why hundreds of happy clients now say, "hypnosis works well." Individual and group sessions. Hypnosis certification training available. Free phone consultation. See ad, page 30.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

CAPITAL REGION PROGRESSIVE MEDICINE AND LONGEVITY PRACTICE, PLLC1873 Western Ave, Ste 101, Albany518-452-4910 • DrErner.com

Board-certified internist treating patients with a holistic, integrative approach to preventive health and wellness. Specialties: weight loss, age management,

menopause, low testosterone, thyroid and adrenal disorders, fi bromyalgia/chronic fatigue, irritable bowel. See ad, page 34.

JESSICA DAVIS, MD781 Hudson Ave, Stillwater518-664-6116 • [email protected]

"The New Mom's Family Doctor." Holistic primary care focusing on women's and children's health, especially newborns and new moms. Integrative, holistic and functional medicine approach.

INTUITIVE

JEANNIE THOMMAIntuitive [email protected]

Offering intuitive readings for greater clarity, focus and happiness. Inspiring action and pathways for creating meaningful life changes through private guidance. Serving the Capital District and beyond. See ad, page 20.

RICHARD LYONSIntuitive Readings631-827-5525

A personalized reading gently sheds light on the unspoken questions of the heart as we travel our individual p a t h s t o w a r d s p i r i t u a l transformation. “There is a message waiting just for you.”

LIGHT THERAPY

JANE S. GRAY, LMT, CLTAt Healing Path Massage670 Franklin St, Schenectady518-374-8654 • [email protected]

Using the exciting new advances in Light Energy technology to increase circulation and decrease pain and infl ammation. Red, blue and infrared lights enhance healing on many levels.

MASSAGE

ALBANY MASSAGEAt Albany Total Wellness130 Everett Rd, Albany518-915-1788 • [email protected] AlbanyMassage.com

The Capital District’s standard in therapeutic massage. Providing the latest in clinically proven therapies and delivering the highest level of quality service to our clients. See ad, page 9.

BODYWORKS WELLNESS CENTERLinda Addario, LMT, CEO17 Computer Dr E, Albany518-459-4325 (HEAL)TheBodyworksWellnessCenter.com

14 years of experience in bodywork with a background in physical therapy. Office mission: “We believe an organic component of supporting client wellness goals means offering the highest level of manual skills and conducting

business with consciousness and integrity.”


SAFE PASSAGE MIDWIFERYKathleen Breault, CNM, LMCapital Region • Central NY • North Country 518-944-1637 • SafePassageMidwifery.com

An artisanal midwifery practice (usually by hand or using tradition-al methods, small).

Providing well woman care and birth services in the comfort and privacy of home. Serving clients in the Capital Region, Central New York and the North Country.

NATURAL BEAUTY

BEAUTYCOUNTERJennifer Quinn, Independent Consultant 518-461-9318 • [email protected]

Beautycounter offers safe, effective and beautiful skincare and cosmetics. Shop one on one, or host a social to get rewards. Learn to make safer choices for personal and whole family health.

NYR ORGANICLisa Small, Independent Consultant/Leader518-755-2170 • [email protected]/Shop/LSmall

Certifi ed organic, non-GMO Project Verifi ed, Fair Trade skin and body care, cosmetics, essential oils, massage, aromatherapy, home fragrance, unique gifts and more. Products for the entire family. Discover organic.

NEW AGE RETAIL

CROSSROADS GIFTS & WELLNESS133 Jay St, Schenectady518-357-8366Find us on Facebook or CrossroadsGallery.com

Divine Inspiration for mind, body, spirit and senses. Locally crafted, fair trade and spiritual gifts, Local all-natural food items, coffee, tea, health and body care products, crystals and stones, essential oils and much more.

NUTRITIONANNE J DEROCHER, CNAt Vitality Health Center3441 Amsterdam Rd (Rte 5), Scotia518-372-4706 • GetVitalHealth.com

Certifi ed nutritionist and medical intuitive for 20+ years, using whole foods and herbs to reprogram and empower our innate wisdom to unravel toxicities to attain vital health. See ad, page 3.

COMMUNITY MASSAGE & HOLISTIC THERAPIESKathleen Vroman, NYS LMT255 River St, Troy 518-272-1400 • TroyCommunityMassage.com

Offering therapeutic massage, myofascial bodywork, craniosacral t he rapy, and r e f l exo logy. Individually customized in a p rofess iona l and peacefu l atmosphere, enhanced with local art and natural foliage. Discover

Troy’s “Urban Oasis.” See ad, page 19.

DAWN DUBOIS, LMT, CTPAt Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center 1744 Rte 9, Castleton518-727-8626 • DawnDuboisLMT.com

Massage for women 50+, massage 65+, massage for disabled and E L D E R C A R E m a s s a g e . Appointments on Sunday and Wednesday at Tranquil Spirit or free consult in homes, facilities, senior centers and disabled centers.

Young Living Essential Oils independent distributor.

SANCTUARY MASSAGEStephanie Cavoli, LMT 864 Burdeck St, Rotterdam/Schenectady 518-952-1161 • SanctuaryMassages.com

Nourish your body; feed your soul. Specializing in gentle techniques inspired by traditional Swedish and Temple Lomi massage. Herb-al infused oils enhance every session.

MIDWIFERY

HEARTSPACE MIDWIFERYHeidi Ricks, LM 518-588-7122Maureen Murphy, CPM 518-229-6541406 Fulton St, Ste 513, Troy HeartspaceMidwifery.com

Empowering women through knowledge, experience and heart. Offering gynecology, preconception counseling, homebirth midwifery services and lactation counseling. See ad, page 10.

LOCAL CARE MIDWIFERY, PLLCK. Michelle Doyle, CNM, NYS LM35 Dearstyne Rd, Troy518-238-3469 • LocalCareMidwifery.com

An independent midwifery prac t ice o ffe r ing qua l i ty women’s heal th care and planned home birth services. Considering home birth? Call for a free consult.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

MACCIO PHYSICAL THERAPY1 New Hampshire Ave, Troy518-273-2121MaccioPhysicalTherapy.com

The McKenzie Method is an active patient involvement and education system for back, neck and extremity pain. Its methodology is backed by therapists/doctors worldwide. See ad, page 26.

SOMATIC PRACTITIONER

CONSCIOUS MOVEMENTSBuffy Owens, Feldenkrais MethodAt A Space to Grow, 216 River St, Troy518-629-5664 • ConsciousMovements.com

Offering group classes and private sessions for those interested in meditation & mindfulness, women moving through pregnancy and for families who have children with special needs & extraordinary gifts. See ad, page 40.

SOUND HEALING

ALL ENERGY HEALING, YOGA, SOUND THERAPYCheryl Beckmann, E-RYT, Daniel Roy518-810-7646 • AllEnergyHealing.com

Experience emotional, physical and spiritual healing with the beautiful vibrations of crystal singing bowls and Native American flute. Group and private sessions available in studios, wellness centers or in-home throughout the Capital Region. View schedule online.


THERMOGRAPHY

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY INTERNATIONALPatricia Luccardi, LMT, CNMT, CTTChatham and Delmar518-929-7579 • Btiscan.com

Detect changes at the cellular level years before a mammogram. Clearer results, fewer additional tests, allowing for dietary and lifestyle changes. See ad, page 34

MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY ASSOCIATES2 Chelsea Place, Clifton Park518-983-6564 • MedThermography.com

Setting the standard. Medical thermography reveals physiological function and changes. Detects ca rd io-vascu la r p rob lems , hormonal imbalance, lymphatic congestion, and more. Used for early detection/prevention and

breast cancer screening. See ad, page 8.

WELLNESS

NORTHEAST SPINE AND WELLNESS1741 Rte 9, Clifton Park1873 Western Ave, Albany518-371-4800 • DrGulyas.com

Offering evaluation, education and solutions to chronic health concerns where others believe nothing else can be done. Helping to navigate the “storm” of ill health with the 3 Ms: Meal,

Movement and Mind. See ad, page 25.

SPIRITUAL CENTERS

DIVINE HARMONY SPIRITUALIST CHURCHRev. Kelly M. Ballard, Minister518-213-4724Pastor@DivineHarmonyChurch.comDivineHarmonyChurch.com

An Independent Spiritualist Church serving the Capital Region. Service dates/times are available online. Healing and mediumship included in all services.

UNITY CHURCH OF ALBANYRev. Jim Fuller, [email protected] • UnityAlbany.org

Offering practical and positive sp i r i tua l p r inc ip les and teachings, honoring each person and the spiritual path which they follow. Sunday morning services at 9 & 11am plus Wednesday even ing medi ta t ion and metaphysical classes.

SUSTAINABLE FINANCE

SUSTAINABLE WEALTH ADVISORSHarry Moran, CFP, AIF112 Spring St, Ste 101, Saratoga Springs518-450-1755 • [email protected]

Comprehensive financial planning and highly customized asset management strategies for socially and environmentally conscious investors. Serving the greater Capital Region. [Securities offered through Portfolio Resources

Group, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB, SIFMA. Office of Supervisory Jurisdiction (OSJ): 800 Brickell Ave, Ste 903, Miami, FL.]

WORKSHOPS/RETREATS

ONE BIG ROOF433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Springs518-450-1624 • OneRoofSaratoga.com

A spacious retreat and workshop center in the heart of Saratoga. Attend mind, body, spirit events for improved health and

well-being. See schedule online.

PEACE VILLAGE LEARNING & RETREAT CENTER54 O’Hara Rd (at Rte 23A), Haines Falls, NY518-589-5000 [email protected]

Experience the tranquility of weekend retreats, vegetarian food and special day events for the Capital District. Learn to meditate, be open to life-changing experiences and find inner peace and power. Relax, refresh and renew.

YOGAHEARTSPACE YOGA & HEALING ARTS747 Madison Ave, Albany 10 2nd St, Troy • 518-512-3390HeartspaceAlbany.com

With locations in Troy and Albany, Hear tspace i s a community-oriented yoga studio offering daily drop-in classes for all levels, workshops and special events. See ad, page 12.


IN HARMONY YOGA137 Remsen St, Cohoes518-369-8325 • [email protected]

Our Sacred Space embodies a compassionate energy that will empower the body, mind and spirit. Kripalu, Hot Warrior Yoga (85 degrees), Vinyasa, Detox

Flow, Personalized Yoga, Corporate Yoga and Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra.

KEY 2 JOY – YOGA145 Vly Road, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie518-598-6968 • Key2Joy.net

Unlock the Key 2 Joy within you through yoga and meditation. Offering: hatha, chair, Svaroopa, gentle,

restorative, tantra, and Bhakti yoga, yoga nidra, and meditation. Private and group sessions for all levels.

LILANANDA YOGA585 Saratoga Rd (Route 50), Glenville518-470-5240LilanandaYoga.com

Yoga and Pilates studio serving Glenville, Burnt Hills and the surrounding areas. An inviting space to come learn, expand and explore with yoga.

NAMASTE YOGA SARATOGA2 Franklin Sq, Ste F2, Saratoga Springs518-222-7470NamasteYogaSaratoga.com

Offering community based classes by donation. Calming and restorative Hatha yoga s tudio jus t 1 b lock off Broadway. All are welcome.

ORENDA YOGA & HEALING ARTS457 Route 146, Guilderland Center, [email protected] • OrendaYoga.org

Specializing in therapeutic and structural yoga practices. S m a l l c l a s s s i z e s a n d undivided attention from our teachers and practitioners,

offering yoga for everybody. See ad, page 45.

THE YOGA LILYPam Medina, Founder, E-RYT1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park518-744-5565 • TheYogaLily.com

A welcoming, safe, healing space to nourish well-being. Gentle to challenging classes, as well as chair and restorative yoga, Thai yoga

bodywork, goddess events, meditation, workshops/retreats and yoga teacher training programs.

YANA YOGA & WELLNESS100 Saratoga Village Blvd, #42Malta Commons, Malta518-522-5472 • YanaYoga.net

Committed to its clients for over 6 years, Yana Yoga & Wellness offers a variety of yoga classes including Prenatal, Kid's,

Mommy & Me, Gentle, Breast Cancer Recovery, Restorative and Vinyasa. See ad, page 7.

YOGA BLISS ON THE BLVD140 Erie Blvd, Schenectady518-894-7086YogaBlissBlvd.com

A safe and sacred space where one can inquire within. Dedicated under the guiding principles of love, grace and gratitude. Yoga Bliss offers a space to choose and practice happiness.

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