natural awakenings of the ny capital district - may 2014

May 2014 | 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

FOOD & GARDENChanging the Way America Eats

SUPERHERBSFour Plants that Fight Off Disease

GLUTEN-FREEON-THE-GO

FRESH FOOD TRENDSRespecting Ourselvesand Our Planet

FREE

2 NY Capital District AlbanyAwakenings.com

3natural awakenings May 2014


Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District

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

AlbanyAwakenings.com

PublisherCarolyn Coogan

Editors S. Alison Chabonais

Martin MironJacqueline Wright

Contributing WriterColleen BrunettiJudith Fetterley

Contributing PhotographerPam Slotsky

Design & ProductionStephen BlancettHelene Leininger

Michele Rose

WebmasterLipera Web Design, Guilderland

Office CatRocky

Multi-Market Advertising469-633-9549

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© 2014 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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letterfrompublisher

Being musically inclined and a Broadway

aficionado, you will usually find me going about

my day humming a tune. As I prepared this issue

combining two of my favorite things, food and

gardening, two lines kept popping up: “Food,

glorious, food!” from Oliver!, and “It’s May, it’s May!

The month of ‘Yes you may,’” from Camelot. Both

capture the exuberance we all share in the returning

warmth with bonus opportunities to dig our hands

into the good earth again.

Have you ever thought of gardening as a spiritual experience? This month’s

Inspiration department offers an intriguing slant that has inspired a new way of

thinking for me, giving renewed personal meaning to my efforts and conscious

actions in the yard. I hope this issue has you singing a happy springtime tune of

your own and that it encourages you to seek out local, natural fare, perhaps even

trying your hand at growing something wholesome and delicious.

This month we highlight local markets committed to providing our

community with farm fresh and organic options. There is no shortage of

yumminess in our region. The healthful Eat Local movement has entered

mainstream consciousness thanks to you and nearly 4 million Natural Awakenings readers across the country that are joining with others attuned to their love of

vibrant flavors and devotion to sustainable communities. One such devoted

natural food expert, Melinda Hemmelgarn sheds light on this year’s top food

trends in our feature article. From foraging and fermentation to superherbs and

aquaponics, there’s something for everyone in this issue.

While I do have a deep affinity for food, shopping for it used to be one of my

least favorite errands. In an effort to overhaul several poor eating habits this year,

I’m happy to say that I have actually recently begun to look forward to the fun of

selecting ripe, tasty and nutritious fruits and veggies for my morning smoothies.

I particularly enjoy supporting local markets and selecting organic products. I

suspect I am not alone in anticipation as our outdoor farmers’ markets resume

operation this month throughout the region.

Admittedly, I wouldn’t refer to myself as the model of perfect all-around health

and wellness at the moment, but I do always aspire for improvement. With the

help of many of our amazing advertisers and the magazine’s monthly editorial, I continue to slowly transform my thoughts and actions in a multitude of areas. I’m so

glad you’ve joined me on this journey of awakening. Have you noticed changes of

your own along the way? How wonderful it is for us all to be able to share Natural Awakenings with a growing circle of natural living friends in our community.

Happy planting,

Carolyn Coogan, Publisher


HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 518-729-0099 or email [email protected]. Deadline for ads: the 5th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONSSubmit articles and news or health briefs online at: AlbanyAwakenings.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONSSubmit calendar events online at AlbanyAwakenings.com within the calendar submittal section.Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month.

REGIONAL MARKETSAdvertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 469-633-9549. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

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AlbanyAwakenings.com

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

1 3 eventspotlight

14 healthbriefs

15 ecotip

16 globalbriefs

19 community spotlight 22 greenliving 24 healingways 29 businessspotlight

30 marketspotlights

34 healthykids

36 fitbody

38 calendar

43 naturaldirectory

50 classifieds

14

15

34 34 36 36 38 38

16

20 GARDENING AS SPIRITUAL PRACTICE Cycles of Growth Cultivate Our Divinity by April Thompson

22 EVERY DROP COUNTS Reusing Rainwater Saves

Money and is Better for Plants by Brita Belli

24 SUPERHERBS Four Plants that Fight Off Disease

by Kathleen Barnes

26 FRESH FOOD TRENDSNatural Trailblazers

in Sustainable Eating by Melinda Hemmelgarn

32 GLUTEN-FREE ON THE GO Safe Eating Away from Home by Judith Fertig

34 SEVEN SIGNS OF FOOD SENSITIVITIES Action Plan For Parents by Pamela Bond

36 TWEET THOSE FITNESS GOALS Online Friends Help Us Stay on Track by Tamara Grand

26

32

22

34


newsbriefsMedical Thermography Associates Opens in Clifton Park

Medical Thermography Associates has opened

at 2 Chelsea Place, in Clifton Park, as a certified iScanHD medical imaging center, using infrared/ther-mal imaging (thermography) for medical diagnostics and to screen for cardiovascular issues, thyroid and endocrine system disorders, lymphatic congestion, musculoskeletal pain, hormonal imbalance and breast cancer. Medical thermography is a 100 percent safe, radiation-free diagnostic screening method that can be used by any person, of any age, size or shape. It is used for early detec-tion of medical conditions that if left unattended, can de-velop into a full-blown, potentially life-threatening condition. Howard Vics, president, states, “We are offering a 10 percent discount for anybody who books a thermography screening during the month of May and mentions that they found us in Natural Awakenings.”

For more information, call 518-983-6564 or visit MedThermography.com. See ad, page 22.

Look for JNB Natural Foods at the Altamont Fair

JNB Foods, in Albany, is all-natural specialty

food producer of salsas, sauces and other deli-cious items, committed to serving the freshest-tasting foods with a homemade flavor that’s just a little different from the norm. They will be exhibiting at the annual Altamont Fair from August 12 to 17, at the Al-tamont Fairgrounds. JNB shares delicious family recipes for those looking to better their lives through the simple pleasures of food ranging from bruschetta to apple corn salsa. JNB products are avail-able at Gade Farms, in Altamont, Fred The Butcher, in Clifton Park, Honest Weight Food Co-Op, in Albany, and Shop Rite (all Capital Region locations).

Tickets for the fair are available online and at the gate. For more information, visit AltamontFair.com and jnbfoods.com. See ad, page 31.

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Become a Massage Therapist

The Center for Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy is accepting enrollment in a full-time massage therapy training

program that begins June 17. Massage therapy is an increasingly attractive career, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment of massage therapists to grow 23 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all other occupations The School of Massage Therapy program offers comple-tion of training in less than one year; no classes on Friday,

Saturday or Sunday; many weeks have only three days of classes; financial aid is available for those who qualify; and lifetime job placement services are included.

Location: 3 Cerone Commercial Dr., Albany. For more information or to enroll, call 518-489-4026 or visit cnwsmt.com. See ad, page 21.

Patroon Land Farm CSA Complements Food Bank

The Regional Food Bank

of Northeastern New York operates the Patroon Land Farm CSA in a joint venture with the Patroon Land Foundation. Community supported ag-riculture (CSA) is a partnership between community members and a farm. The members buy a “share” of the farm’s harvest and then receive a weekly sup-ply of fresh, locally grown produce. The Patroon Land Farm’s mission is to grow fresh produce for the Regional Food Bank to feed the hungry. CSA members contribute to that mission while enjoying their own share of the farm’s harvest. The CSA season is early July through October. Each weekly share of produce is packed at the farm early on Thursday morning, and then delivered throughout the day to pickup sites in Al-bany, Colonie, Latham, Rensselaer, Troy and Voorheesville.

For more information, call Bob Baker at the Regional Food Bank of NENY at 518-786-3691 ext. 296 or email [email protected].

Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Forums

May is Lyme Awareness Month, so Dr. Ronald Stram, his integrative team and special guests Carsten Nicolaus, M.D., and Armin Schwarzbach, M.D., will

make a presentation from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 3, at The Linda, WAMC’s Per-forming Arts Center, in Albany, about the latest cutting-edge therapies to treat Lyme and tick-borne diseases. At 2:45 p.m., May 5, at Greenville High School Auditorium, in Greenville New York, Stram will be joined by Dr. Richard Horowitz, author of Why Can’t I Get Better? Solving the Mystery of Lyme and Chronic Disease; Holly Ahern, asso-ciate professor of microbiology at SUNY Adirondack; and Christina T. Fisk, director of the Lyme Action Network, to discuss the integrative approaches to persistent Lyme disease, including new treatment options. Stram helped draft a bill in the Vermont House of Representatives which al-lows a licensed physician to prescribe, administer or dispense long-term antibiotic therapy for the purpose of eliminating or controlling a patient’s Lyme disease or other tick-borne illness.

Admission is free. Location: 339 Central Ave. Register online at Tinyurl.com/Ly-meAwarenessMonth or call the Stram Center for Integrative Medicine at 518-689-2244. For Greenville information, call 518-239-4532.


newsbriefs

SHIFT NY Holistic Living and Spiritual Arts Fair

The SHIFT (Spiritual Ho-listic Integrative Festive

Transformation) New York Holistic Living and 10th an-nual Spiritual Arts Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 10 and 11, at the Hunt Union on the SUNY Oneonta College Campus. Co-chair

Diana Friedell explains, “People are shifting their awareness toward natural health and more meaningful spiritual lives. This fair is offering them some of the best complementary health practitioners, inspirational workshop presenters and spiritual intuitive teachers from the Northeast to guide them.” Co-sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, there will be metaphysical and spiritual gifts and crafts, alternative and complementary solutions for pain management and stress relief, as well as more than 22 free workshops by renowned spiritual teachers.

Tickets are $6 in advance or $8 at the door (under 10 free). Location: SUNY Oneonta College campus, Ravine Pkwy, Oneonta, NY. For more information, call Diana Friedell at 607-433-2089. Visit ShiftNewYork.com, Green Toad, Transi-tions Boutique or Green Earth, in Oneonta, for tickets.

Sanctuary Massage Opens Second Location in Schenectady

Sanctuary Massage has added a new Schenectady

location at 864 Burdeck Street. This new space will offer massage therapy and energy work services with space for wellness workshops and a small retail section featuring organic handmade herbal products. They will hold a grand opening and Mother’s Day event from 1 to 5 p.m., May 10. Sanctuary Massage owner Stephanie Cavoli, LM, special-izes in gentle restorative massage, using 100 percent natural herbal infused oils and aromatherapy. She states, “While massage is everywhere in Albany, residents of Schenectady, Rotterdam, Scotia and even Amsterdam now have an afford-able, professional location for these wellness services that is easy to get to. Our services cater to nearby residents as we offer an option for therapeutic, yet gentle massage incorpo-rating a body, mind and spirit connection in our approach. We are known for really listening to our clients to deliver the best possible service to meet their individual needs.”

The location at 747 Madison Ave., Albany, will remain open. For more information and appointments at either location, call 518-952-1161 or visit SanctuaryMassages.com.

Open House at Historic Wiawaka Center

The Wiawaka Center for Women will be hold-

ing an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 31. Visitors will be able to tour the property and

historical buildings, learn about upcoming programs, enjoy refreshments on the porch and meet new Executive Direc-tor Meaghan Wilkins and the summer staff. Wilkins says, “At the open house, guest can learn about the wonderful programs designed by and for women. Bring a picnic lunch and eat along the shore of Lake George.” Upcoming programs at Wiawaka include a Mothers with Au-tistic Children retreat, July 26; Dancing with Your Heart Art and Yoga retreat, from August 1 to 3; and a Mothers Healing Together retreat for mothers who have lost a child, from August 8 to 10. Wiawaka, created by and for women in 1903, is the oldest and longest continuously operating retreat center for women in America. It aims to enrich, inspire and celebrate the growth of women through unique and relevant program-ming by offering a restorative experience in a natural and peaceful setting.

Location: 3778 Rte. 9L, Lake George, NY. For more informa-tion, call 518-668-9690 or visit Wiawaka.org. See ad, page 31.

Stephanie Cavoli


Get Away to the Sagamore, Girlfriend

Girlfriends’ Getaway at the Adirondack Sagamore Hotel,

in Bolton Landing, is a women’s weekend filled with wellness workshops, fitness classes, demon-strations, fashion show, luncheon, shopping and dining, compli-mentary chair massages and door prizes. It’s a great opportunity for women to learn new skills at cop-ing with their busy and sometimes stressed lives while having fun and making new friends. Dr. Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell, known for their show on the Cooking Channel, The Fabulous Beekman Boys, will appear for a talk and book sign-ing. Beginning at 3:30 p.m. May 9, the two authors will speak and there will be a demonstration by a medium, followed by a welcome reception with entertainment and welcome bags. May 10 is a full day of workshops, classes, dem-onstrations, a fashion show and luncheon, ending with s’mores on the veranda at 9 p.m. May 11 features a hike led by the Lake George Land Conservancy from 10 a.m. to noon. The Sagamore is offering 25 percent off spa treatments and products, and reduced room rates. Many shops in town offer refreshments and discounts, and the restaurants make up a special three-course menu for $20.14.

Location: 110 Sagamore Rd., Bolton Landing, NY. Tickets can be purchased at 518-644-3831 or GirlfriendsGetawayBolton.com.


newsbriefs

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Nutrition Classes Available at Oliva!

Oliva! Gourmet Olive Oils & Vinegars, with

stores in Clifton Park and Albany, has introduced nutrition classes at both locations. Each class, led by dietitian Christine Sloat, includes a short cooking demonstration and samples to try. Classes are designed to be a casual evening of nutrition and fun, and attendees get 10 percent off all Oliva! products on the night of the class. Oliva! is a family-owned business offering an extensive selection of extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world that they import in bulk. Owner Kathy Connolly says, “Our products are available to try before you buy, so whether you are a gourmet cook, casual foodie, or your kids’ personal chef, please stop in and experience the world of true, extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars.”

Cost is $15. Locations: Clifton Park Center, 22 Clifton Coun-try Rd., Clifton Park (518-371-3866); Stuyvesant Plaza, 1475 Western Ave., Albany (518-482-3866). For class schedule and preregistration (required), visit OlivaEvoo.com. See ad, page 28.

Dancing with Scarves at Joy of Nia

Joy of Nia Movement, in Guilderland, has introduced

a new Friday night Nia Dance Party with a different theme each month—this month is Dancing with Scarves, from 7 to 8 p.m., May 9. Beth Foster, a Nia Instructor and owner of Joy of Nia Movement, says, “It’s a time to celebrate, connect to our bodies and dance. Let’s spread our wings, shimmy our hips, laugh in joy, free our spirits and do some dancing with scarves, Nia style.” Foster adds, “Nia conditions the body with exhilarat-ing and joyful movement; increases your flexibility, agility, strength and balance; reduces stress and calms the mind; burns fat and calories; and leaves you feeling great and lov-ing your body.” Upcoming themes include nights centered around a particular genre of music, fun-related accessories such as glow-in-the-dark jewelry, different styles of movement and other creative motifs.

Location: 3 Denny Rd. For more information, call Beth at 518-452-3679 or visit JoyOfNiaMovement.com. See ad, page 28.


News to share?Submit information online at AlbanyAwakenings.com

Submittal deadline is the 5th of the month.

Annual Open House at Albany Total Wellness

Albany Total Wellness is hold-ing an outdoor open house

from 6 to 8 p.m., May 28, for people to meet the healthcare professionals and learn about the services they offer. Guests will enjoy a DJ, food and bever-ages, a raffle, giveaways and kid-friendly activities. Other highlights include complimentary massage, Reiki treatments and nutrition and wellness mini-consults, plus chi-ropractic and acupuncture demonstrations.

Location: 130 Everett Rd., Albany. For more information, call 518-435-1280 or visit AlbanyTotalWellness.com and Face-book. See ad, page 20.

Satprem to Hold Summer Workshops

The mystic Satprem (“true love” in Sanskrit), an internationally known

teacher of 108 meditation techniques and Reiki master who is seventh in line from Dr. Mikao Usui, will con-duct a Divine Shamanic Healing Circle from 3 to 7 p.m., May 10, at IKIERA Divine Holistic Healing Arts, in Clifton Park. Satprem is opening her summer workshop season at the Zen garden under a blessed and feng shui-ed pyramid. A work-shop, Awaken your Inner Goddess, will be held May, 24; see website for details. Other events, including Tibetan meditation and an Inner and Outer Beauty Circle, are held regularly, along with full moon and new moon meditations. Satprem is a divine healer and certified therapist in acu-puncture, acupressure, prenatal healing and kyudo archery. She has been a therapist for 35 years with personal develop-ment groups, including The Inner Child, Mystic Rose and Sufi-Whirling, among others. ABC-TV is working on a documentary, The Path to inner Peace, featuring Satprem, that will be released in the fall. It reports on her transformation of lives using meditation and her work with Indigo Kids and seniors.

Location: 34 Cemetery Rd. For more information, call 518-788-7062, or visit IkieraHealing.com.

Satprem

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kudosAccording to the Schenectady Ac-cess Cable Council, Tune In To Wellness Today, a local televi-sion show that promotes natural wellness in the Capital District and surrounding area, is cur-rently receiving the most traffic/viewing of all the cable access shows on SACC.TV. It gives the opportunity for providers of natu-ral wellness modalities, services and products to educate the gen-eral public about them, and a way for the public to learn about the myriad natural wellness options available to them. The program, hosted by LisaMarie Tersigni, founder and owner of Inspir-ing Wellness Solutions, LLC, is filmed and aired twice a month, appearing on Schenectady Time Warner Channel 16, Verizon Channel 32, Albany Time Warner Channel 18, Schenectady Access Cable Council and sacc.tv (online).

For more information, call LisaMarie Tersigni at 518-292-8767 or visit InspiringWellnessSolutions.com. See ad, page 33.

Dr. Kerstin Medwin has opened a second location, Saratoga Wellness, at 376 Broadway, Suite 21, in Saratoga Springs, working in collaboration with Tyler

Fedigan, LMT, of Saratoga Springs Massage Therapy. Dr. Jaclyn Purcell has joined the team and will represent Medwin Chiropractic at the new location. After practicing in Albany for the last three years, Medwin realized how effec-tive massage and chiropractic are when combined together and decided to expand the benefits to the Saratoga area.

Dr. Medwin’s practice located inside Albany Total Wellness remains open at 130 Everett Rd., Albany. To schedule an appointment at either location, call 518-435-1280. For more information, visit MedwinChiropractic.com.

LisaMarie Tersigni (left) and Kathleen Vroman


eventspotlight

International spiritual master and leader of humanitarian efforts, Sai Maa, will be in Albany on May 10 for two events, giving

the public a chance to meet this charismatic, enigmatic and inspiring luminary. As part of The 2014 Passion Tour, a series of worldwide events exploring passion as the essential energy to fuel a life of purpose and fulfillment, an Introduction to Sai Maa’s Teachings will be offered from 6:30 to 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in Colonie. All are welcome to learn Sai Maa’s foundational teachings supporting practical spirituality and personal transformation.

Darshan, a Sanskrit word that literally translated means “in the sight of the divine,” will immediately follow from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Families especially will want to attend this sacred event. Partici-pants will go up individually to Sai Maa to experience a moment of oneness and divinity with a living enlightened master. In 2007, Sai Maa became the first woman in 5,000 years of exclusively male lineage in India to be recognized and honored as a jagadguru and is considered a living saint, given the title of Her Holiness. She holds a Ph.D. in spiritual-ity from the Open International University and is certified in

naturopathic, homeopathic and osteopathic therapies. Sai Maa teaches people how to master their own lives just as she has mastered hers. She works to eliminate pain and suffering through humanitarian relief and therapeutic practices for healing, personal transformation, and a renewed life. She is the author of Petals of Grace: Essential Teachings for Self-Mastery, and creator of the Journey of Profound Healing, the Transformational Healers Program, and many other educational programs. Sai Maa founded the nonprofit Humanity In Unity, Inc., to sup-port her humanitarian work around the world,

including projects to provide food, clothing, clean water and medical care to children and families and to support women in crisis. Current programs include the Just One Hunger Initiative and Cataract Surgery Program in Varanasi, India. Also in Varanasi, Sai Maa is planning to open the first-ever women’s empowerment center and domestic violence shelter, staffed and managed only by women, later this year.

There is no cost to attend either program. Location: 205 Wolf Rd. Preregister and learn more at SaiMaaAlbany.com.

Sai Maa to Appear in Albany

Sai Maa

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healthbriefs

DIY Projects Keep Seniors MovingThe British Journal of Sports

Medicine reports that a gener-ally active daily life that includes do-it-yourself activities and projects like gardening and car maintenance can cut the risks of heart attacks and strokes by as much as 30 percent and prolong life among adults 60 and over. These routine activities may be as beneficial as exercising for older adults because they decrease total sedentary time, the researchers say. Scientists in Stockholm, Swe-

den, tracked more than 4,000 men and women for an average of 12.5 years, start-ing at age 60. At the start of the study, regardless of exercise habits, high levels of other physical activity were associated with smaller waists and lower levels of potentially harmful blood fats in both sexes, and lower levels of glucose, insulin and clotting factor levels in men. Those with higher levels of other physical activity were also significantly less likely to experience metabolic syndrome, a first cardiovascular disease event, and early mortality from any cause. The same was true for individuals that undertook high levels of formal exercise, even if it wasn’t routine. Participants that both ex-ercised regularly and were often physically active in their daily life had the lowest risk profile of all.

Coconut Oil Manages Cholesterol, Shrinks WaistlinesReduced physical activity and increased consumption of carbohydrates and

saturated fats fuel increased rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance, plus abnormal lipid content in the blood. Although coconut oil is a saturated fat, its chemical composition appears to prevent it from generating nega-tive effects on lipid profiles, according to a growing body of research. In an earlier study published in Lipids, women that exhibited abdominal obesity consumed supplements of either coconut oil or soybean oil. Throughout the 12-week trial, both groups followed the same weight-loss diet. At the end, the coconut oil group presented a higher level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or protective cho-

lesterol, and smaller waistlines, while the soybean oil group showed lower HDL levels and an increase in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) plus a less desirable LDL-to-HDL ratio. In a

later study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, consumption of coconut oil was again associated with a beneficial lipid profile in pre-menopausal women.

Researchers that conducted a concurrent pilot study with male and female subjects found that

men also experienced shrinking waistlines when supplementing with coconut oil. They explain that coconut oil contains mainly medium-chain fatty acids, which rapidly convert into energy, thereby circumventing the cycle that makes

cholesterol and stores fat (Pharmacology).

Chemicals Harm Pets, TooThe nationwide health epidemic

of chronic diseases afflicting the human population is also showing up among companion animals. Accord-ing to a report by the Environmental Working Group, pets, like a canary in a coal mine, may be the environmen-tal sentinels that are now signaling a clear connection between disease and manmade chemicals. In a study that analyzed blood samples of dogs and cats, 48 of 70 industrial chemicals and pollutants were traced, many recording levels that were substantially higher than previously reported in national studies of humans. Dogs displayed double the concentration of perfluorochemicals (used in stain-proof and grease-proof coatings); cats evidenced 23 times the concentration of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) fire retardants and 5.4 times the amount of mercury. PBDE levels in hyperthyroid cats have been linked to eating canned cat food and to the increased use of PBDEs in consumer products during the past 30 years. In humans, high levels of flame-retardant chemicals are implicated in endocrine disruption, Type 2 diabetes and thyroid disease. Suggestions for minimizing exposure include avoiding chemical-laden household cleaners, furnishings and carpet; drinking carbon-filtered water; steering clear of food and bever-age containers made from or lined with plastic (including cans); and eating organic produce and free-range meat.


ecotip

Healthy Food at the Front DoorA growing trend is the ringing of a doorbell heralding the arrival of healthy food. In addition to the convenience and time savings, having a grocery delivery van make roundtrips to and from multiple customers’ doorsteps generates far less emissions than traditional shopping. Home deliveries of local and organic fresh fruits and vegetables have customers clamoring for more. After serving most of the New York metro area for more than a decade, online grocer Fresh-Direct (FreshDirect.com) began delivering in the Philadelphia metro area in October 2012 and expanded to other parts of Pennsylvania, plus New Jersey and Delaware, last fall. “Our hyper-local, farm-to-fork food systems result in healthy relationships between consumers, food and farm-ers,” says David McInerney, co-founder of FreshDi-rect. The company also supports hunger organiza-tions and provides nutritional counseling. Planet Organics (PlanetOrganics.com) serves the San Francisco Bay area. Beginning last fall, Instacart partnered with Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods and Costco to begin delivering food to homes in 13 neighborhoods in Chicago. Beginning in Colorado, where it’s based, Door to Door Organics (DoorTo-DoorOrganics.com) now provides its service in Michigan, plus metro areas of Kansas City, Chicago and New York. Green BEAN Delivery (GreenBeanDe-livery.com), based in Indianapolis, now also delivers organic and sustainable foods in Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio; Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky; and most recently, St. Louis, Missouri. Irv & Shelly’s Fresh Picks (FreshPicks.com) taps into 100-plus farmers within a day’s drive of its Niles, Illinois, center, to serve the Chicago and Milwaukee metro areas. “We’re able to concentrate on reaching people of all incomes and get deep into the communities,” says co-owner Shelly Herman. The eight-year-old company also partners with community groups, food pantries and schools. Going a step further, other companies are delivering prepared healthy meals. In one example, Power Supply (MyPowerSupply.com) recently part-nered with Mindful Chef to foster this connection with 50 yoga and other fit-ness facilities, as well as other businesses in the Washington, D.C., metro area.

VITAMIN E HOPE FOR CANCER CARE

Elusive anti-cancer ele-ments of vitamin E, natu-

ral tocopherols, have been identified by researchers

at Ohio State University as being able to deactivate an

enzyme essential for cancer cell survival. Although both alpha and gamma forms of natural tocopherols worked, the gamma was the most potent in shut-ting down the troublesome enzyme. Through manipulating the structure of the gamma molecule, the scientists were able to create an agent 20 times more effective than the original vitamin. In mice, this agent reduced the size of prostate cancer tumors. Over-the-counter vitamin E supple-ments are limited because many use syn-thetic forms that do not contain the natural gamma tocopherols. The study’s authors, led by Ching-Shih Chen, Ph.D., note that the human body cannot absorb the high dosages of natural vitamin E required to achieve the anti-cancer effect; their goal is to develop a safe pill that could be taken daily for cancer prevention.

LEGUMES IMPROVE BLOOD SUGAR, BLOOD PRESSURE

A cup of beans a day may keep

the doctor away. In a randomized trial published in the Archives of Internal Medicine of 121 par-ticipants diagnosed

with diabetes mellitus, daily consumption of approximately one cup of legumes (peas and beans) was found to improve glycemic control and reduce systolic blood pressure and heart rate, thereby reducing participants’ calculated risk score for coronary heart disease (CHD). Body weight, waist circumference and fasting blood glucose and triglyceride levels also decreased on the legume diet. Legumes appear to make dietary carbohy-drates digest more slowly and with a lower glycemic index, which has been associ-ated with reduced hypertension and fewer CHD events in pre-diabetic individuals.


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

Bikes-to-GoCycling Gains Ground at Colleges and in Cities

May is National Bike Month, and more universities continue to commit to bicycling as a sustainable, healthy and environmentally conscious transporta-tion choice. Recently, Harvard University joined Princeton and Yale as an official Bicycle-Friendly University (BFU), and the League of American Bicyclists desig-nated 14 new BFU members, expanding the program to 58 colleges in 30 states across the U.S. with more to come.

When New York City opened registration for a public bike-sharing program, Citi Bike, more than 5,000 people signed up within 30 hours. Similar demand for more cycling options is happening across the nation where shared bicycle pro-grams are taking root (see Tinyurl.com/Top50BikeFriendliestCities). The popular Washington, D.C., Capital Bikeshare program began operat-ing in September 2010, and is now the nation’s largest, with 200 locking docks able to accommodate more than 1,800 bright-red bicycles. As in many programs, people can sign up for a short-term stint or an annual membership using either a credit card online or at a station kiosk. Then they can unlock a bicycle and return it to any station within the system. All rides under 30 minutes are free, after which escalating fees kick in, encouraging people to make short trips and to keep more bikes available for other riders.

For more information, visit BikeLeague.org.

Solar SurgeGlobal Rise in Sun-Generated PowerLast year, the U.S. joined Germany, Italy, China and Japan in producing more than 10 gigawatts of solar production nationwide. Now, other countries have awakened to the opportunity and are on their way to catching up. The popular Scandinavian retailer IKEA has sold $10,000 solar panels in 17 British outlets. Peru recently started a National Photovoltaic Household Electrification Program to connect 2 million of its poorest residents with solar power. In the first phase, 1,601 solar panels were installed to power 126 impoverished communities. The plan is to install about 12,500 photovoltaic systems for 500,000 households at an overall cost of $200 million. Earth Hour India is helping citizens to switch to solar energy in villages that previously had no electricity. Woodlands stores, in partnership with World Wildlife Foundation-India, has launched a collection drive across the country, inspiring individuals to donate to help light up more than 100 households in three villages in Madhya Pradesh with solar power. The residents had traditionally depended on forest resources for their energy needs.


Information OverloadOrganic Food Labeling Causes ConfusionA recent Harris Poll of 2,276 U.S. adults showed that concern for the environment is growing, but Americans may not be ready to spend more for organic food. More than half think that labeling food or other products as organic is just an excuse to charge more. Yet more than half of respondents also believe that organic foods are healthier than non-organic. At the same time, only 23 percent know what the term “dirty dozen” means in regard to organic food; it’s the Environmental Work-ing Group’s annual list of foods consumers should always buy in organic form due to high pesticide levels in conventional farming.

Greening GarbageActivist Turns City Food Waste into Rural SoilJeremy Brosowsky had an epiphany at a Milwaukee, Wisconsin, greenhouse a few years ago that set him on a more sustainable path: “What if we could take our garbage and grow food in it?” He was in the Midwest to learn about urban agriculture at Growing

Power, the pioneering urban farm of McArthur Genius Fellow Will Allen, and was considering starting a rooftop agriculture business. Allen’s emphasis on the impor-tance and elusiveness of fertile soil intrigued him. “If you don’t dramatically improve the soil, you cannot grow food in cities,” Brosowsky realized. His solution was to create Compost Cab (CompostCab.com), a Washington, D.C.-based service that picks up and delivers urban food waste to local farms for composting. Nearly 100 cities already divert food waste from land-fills, but Brosowsky emphasizes, “Composting is not just about waste reduction. It’s about food production, education, jobs and creating social benefits.” He hopes to roll out Compost Cabs in other cities.

Sinking ReptilesWorld Turtle Day Sounds Alarm Since 2000, people around the globe have celebrated World Turtle Day, held this year on May 23, to increase respect for and knowledge of the world’s oldest creatures. Susan Tellem, co-founder with Marshall Thompson of American Turtle Rescue (ATR), states, “These gentle animals have been around for about 200 million years, yet they are rapidly disappearing as a result of the exotic food industry, habitat de-struction and the cruel pet trade.” They believe that turtles may be extinct within 50 years and suggest ways to increase their chances for survival for future generations:

n Never buy a turtle or tortoise from a pet shop; it increases demand from the wild.

n Never remove turtles or tortoises from the wild unless they are sick or injured.

n If a tortoise is crossing a street, pick it up and gently place it on the other side in the same direction it was headed.

n Write legislators about keeping sensitive habitats preserved.

n Report cruelty or illegal sales to a local animal control shelter.

n Report the sale of any turtle or tortoise less than four inches long, which is illegal throughout the U.S.

For more information, visit Tortoise.com or Facebook.com/AmericanTortoiseRescue.

Radical FuelThree Automakers Roll Out Hydrogen ModelsToyota has announced that it will market a hydrogen-powered car begin-ning with the 2015 model year, and Hyundai has also committed to roll-ing out its fuel-cell Tucson model next year. Honda has already begun leasing its hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity to customers in California. Each of these vehicles can travel about 300 miles without a refill (three times the range of the hybrid Chevy Volt in battery mode), and reach a top speed of about 100 miles per hour. A refill takes just a few minutes, and because the hydrogen is used to produce electric-ity, the cars drive without the roar of an internal combustion engine. The cost of hydrogen-fuel-cell vehicles is expected to continue to fall and eventually match that of conventional cars by 2023.

Forests PreserveTrees Rescue Urbanites from Dirty AirAccording to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, poor air quality can irritate the respira-tory system, reduce lung function, inflame and damage the cells that line the lungs, make lungs more susceptible to infection, aggravate asthma, aggravate other chronic lung diseases and cause permanent lung damage. U.S. Forest Service researchers have discovered that the urban forests in 10 cities across the country save on average one person a year from pollution-related death. In New York City alone, that num-ber increases to eight people per year. The scientists recommend that people everywhere plant more trees.

Source: AmericanForests.org


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communityspotlight

When people step into Saratoga

Botanicals, they step away from the stress-ors of everyday life. Upon entering this organic spa and retail store, clients will be treated to personalized care designed to uplift, balance and heal from the inside and outside. The vision of owner Franesa Pyle began years ago. She explains, “A cor-porate job, stress, anxiety and thyroid issues that doctors could not seem to help left me feeling depleted, and I knew that to find true healing I would have to go deeper. My journey led to energy work, dietary changes and watching closely what chemicals I put in my body and on it. This integrative work was highly effective and I have been symptom-free for several years.” Now, along with a team of intuitive and highly trained professionals, Pyle shares that same opportunity with others. One of the first things to notice when entering the storefront is the wide array of custom organic health and beauty products. The focus on organic is essential because we easily absorb at least 60 percent of what is put on our skin. A little research into standard body care products reveals a chemical soup of additives and preservatives, many of which are suspected or even known to contribute to endocrine disruption, reproductive issues or cancer. There is not a trace of such chemicals here, and customers will be able to pronounce and understand everything on the label, because a combination of natural products is carefully selected to provide optimal results with no risk to the user. Among the choices are products for bath and body, aromatherapy,

cosmetics and sk-incare. The com-pletely professional skincare line was co-developed by an in-house esthetician. Of particular note, the mineral makeup does not contain nanopar-ticles—very small bits that go into our lungs when we breath them, causing potential irritation and even damage. Most mineral

makeup on the market today contains these concerning nanoparticles and Saratoga Botanicals takes great care to exclude them. While the organic skincare items are impressive and client feedback during the short time they have been open has been immensely positive, Saratoga Botanicals is much more than just a store. Customers are also able to take advantage of a very wide range of personalized health and spa services, choosing from an array of à la carte services or combining them for the ultimate healing experience. Pyle’s vision for her business and for her clients is a powerful one. She says, “I wanted to bring about an awareness for people of what they put on and in their bodies. I want to edu-cate people about these things and help them transform their life. Just seeing the transformation is rewarding.” Services such as massage therapy, facials, acupuncture, medical consul-tation by Dr. Heidi Rasmussen, nutri-tional consultations, chakra balancing, herbalism, Reiki, Bach flower consulta-tions and private yoga all serve to help transform the client from a place of stress and dis-ease to one of deep relax-ation and inner healing. Each area of service, including acupuncture, ashiatsu barefoot massage,

shiatsu massage, nutritional counsel-ing, Reiki and aromatherapy is led by a practitioner with extensive training and knowledge whose primary focus is to as-sist in supporting the client on their own journey through relaxation and healing. Esthetician services include natural fruit peels, chemical peels, microderm-abrasion, oxygen treatments, photon color therapy, full-body and facial waxing, spray tanning, scalp massage, bridal and event makeup and eyelash and eyebrow tinting. In addition to all of these services, clients may choose from a variety of educational programs, each designed to spur them further toward their personal wellness and balance goals. Pyle explains that she wants people to love and appreciate the qualities they have for who they are. “I see it all the time; people go-ing from one place to the next, but missing that deeper connection with themselves and the world that they live in,” she says. “We aim to change that. It may be as simple as taking the first step; just taking time for your-self. For those desiring more trans-formation, it takes someone giving themselves space to stop and reflect, and go deeper, and that’s what our services really hope to provide.”

Saratoga Botanicals is located at 80 Henry St., in Saratoga Springs. For more information, call 518-306-4108 or visit SaratogaBotanicals.com. See ad, page 30.

Colleen Brunetti is a freelance writer in New Hartford, CT. Connect at ColleenBrunetti.com.

A Natural and Relaxing Blend at Saratoga Botanicals

by Colleen Brunetti

Franesa Pyle


“Gardening is not about having or taking; it’s about giving,” says Connecticut psycho-

therapist Gunilla Norris, author of A Mystic Garden: Working with Soil, Attending to Soul. “And in giving, the garden gives back to you.” She deems the art of practicing gratitude in the garden as an intentional path for cul-tivating spirituality.“Every day, go out and thank the ground. Life is burgeon-ing all around us, all the time,” she continues. “If we can just appreciate that, it’s a big deal.” It’s hard not to be humbled and awed by the miracle of life when we see a seedling push its tiny green head above ground, lean toward the sun and unfurl its first set of leaves. Each bit of plant life is simply fulfilling its mission to grow and be. “Gardening enhances our rela-tionship to the Earth. Through garden-ing, we are helping to heal the planet, which is part of the work we are all called to do,” remarks Al Fritsch, a Jesuit priest in Ravenna, Kentucky, and author of the e-book, Spiritual Growth Through Domestic Gardening (free at EarthHealing.info/garden.htm). Over his lifetime, Fritsch has helped turn a park-ing lot, a section of church lawn, and overgrown bottomland all into thriving gardens. In his view, “It gives us a sense of home, roots us in place.”

We can even discover our personal calling through cultivating a garden while gleaning endless spiritual lessons: Here dwells patience and an apprecia-tion for the natural order of things; no fertilizer can force a flower to bloom be-fore its time. Here resides mindfulness as we learn to notice changes in the plants under our care and discern what they need to thrive. Here abides interdepen-dence; we wouldn’t have carrots, corn or cherries without the bats, birds, and bees playing in the pollen. In a garden, we naturally accept the cycle of life, death and rebirth as we bid adieu to the joy of seasonal colors and let flowerbeds rest in peace, anticipating their budding and blooming again. Just as the fruits of growing a garden exceed the doing—the weed-ing and seeding and countless other tasks—so do the riches of tending a spiritual life surpass the striving. We do well to rejoice in the sacred space created, cherishing every spiritual quality nurtured within and reflected in the Divine handiwork. Breathing in the floral perfume carried by the breeze and reveling in the multi-hued textures of living artistry, we celebrate the fact that we too, are playing our part of the natural miracle of life.

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

Gardening as Spiritual Practice

inspiration

Cycles of Growth Cultivate Our Divinityby April Thompson


Sowing the Seeds of Inspirationby Judith Fetterley

Gardening offers us many opportunities to practice

our spiritual paths because it is always a co-creation, reminding us of our interde-pendence. We cannot begin to garden without knowing something about the place where one lives: what kind of soil do we have, what are the light conditions, how much water will the garden get? As Stanley Kunitz states it in his book, The Wild Braid, the garden always “ex-presses something of the character of the place itself,” and if we do not learn about and respect this character, our gardens are unlikely to thrive. Then when we come to planting, we must know something about each plant we choose; we must pay atten-tion. In essence, we must listen to our plants. What conditions will make them flourish? Are they the right plant for our place? Do we have what they need?

As we tend our plants, we require mindfulness. We also develop our nurturing skills. We learn to deal with disappointment as well, be-cause no matter how much we prepare, no matter how much we listen, no matter how much we tend, a plant will sometimes die. The deepest spiritual

lesson resides in our learning to love and let go. Gardening helps us accept this truth. When we garden, we enter into a fundamental compact with our environment, based on learning, listen-ing, nurturing and above all, respect. When we garden, we set our feet upon a path of spiritual growth. How far we take it is up to us.

Judith Fetterley, owner of Perennial Wis-dom, does design consulting for new and existing gardens in the Capital Region. Connect her at PerennialWisdom.net.


greenliving

Doug Pushard, an expert in rainwater catchment sys-tems who shares his know-how at HarvestH2O.com, believes that homeowners capture rainfall for two rea-

sons—either to make the most of a precious water resource in states with low seasonal precipitation or to control storm-water runoff in states with high precipitation. It’s also an easy way to make a dent in household water and sewer bills. Capturing and managing rainwater provides an environmentally sound alternative to wasting precious tap water pulled from diminishing underground reservoirs, and can replace some or all of a home’s water needs, depending on the system. Rainwater is also better for nourishing lawns, plants and gardens. “People want to use rainwater instead of city water in their yards because they understand that city water carries chlorine, which is not great for plants,” Pushard explains. The amount of water used by residential irrigation is significant. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Water Sense Program, an American family of four uses 400 gallons of water a day, including 30 percent of it outside. More than half of that outdoor water is used for lawns and gardens, with the rest sprayed on cars, in swimming pools and on sidewalks and driveways. Collectively, nationwide landscape irrigation totals more than 7 billion gallons per day.

Water CalculationsIn its simplest form, rainwater harvesting involves little more than placing rain barrels—with capacities from 55 gallons to several hundred gallons—under a home’s downspouts.

EVERY DROP COUNTSReusing Rainwater Saves Money and is Better for Plants

by Brita Belli


Popular models can be purchased from home improvement stores, or county extension classes teach how to make one from inexpensive parts. Online research shows the various styles available; most have a spigot at the base for attaching a hose or filling a watering can. The larger capacity, more sophisticated systems use storage cisterns than can hold thousands of gallons of water below ground. These employ pumps that move the water to sprinkler systems or other points of use. For these more complicated setups, Pushard recom-mends engaging professional help, adding that below-ground systems will capture excess water year-round, even in cli-mates where temperatures drop. “In northern New Mexico, where I live, we get almost one-third of our precipitation in the winter,” he says. “If you have a below-ground system, you can capture that; with an above-ground one, you can’t, because the tank or fittings would freeze and burst.” The formula for determining the maximum amount of water available to capture is related to roof size. Multiply the square footage of the roof times the local annual rainfall (found at Tinyurl.com/73enzjx), and then multiply the result by .623 gallons. That .623 factor is “how many gallons are in an area of one square foot by one inch deep of rainwater,” according to one of Pushard’s online tutorials. Not all roof materials are created equal. On the high end, tile, metal, concrete or asphalt roofs have a 95 percent runoff efficiency; gravel roofs, 70 percent; and grass roofs, 17 percent, so factor that in, too. Pushard recommends always going with a bigger tank, if possible, to avoid having to add more water storage later.

Think BigRainwater harvesting works as an effective irrigation device, but it needn’t be limited to outdoor use. One of the easi-est—and most useful—places to direct captured rainwater is toilets. Citing bathrooms as a home’s biggest water user, the EPA notes that a single toilet can use 27 percent of house-hold water. “It’s ludicrous that we use drinking water to flush toilets,” says Pushard. To use stored rainwater instead, run a new plumbing line to the rainwater storage tank and install a pump that activates when the toilet flushes. Rainwater can supply sink faucets, as well, but counting on rainwater to be the sole source of all household water requires a substantial investment and a filtration, purification and UV light system to make the water drinkable. When capturing rain for potable uses, roofing material becomes more important: Unpainted metal and tile are preferred, because these will not leach chemicals into the water that are difficult to remove. In terms of overall cost, the simplest rainwater collec-tion systems will cost a few hundred dollars (less than $100 per barrel), while a whole-house system will cost tens of thousands. However, Pushard points out, rainwater harvest-ing can be a lifesaver with water shortages becoming a new norm in many states.

Brita Belli is the editor of E-The Environmental Magazine and the author of The Autism Puzzle: Connecting the Dots Between Environmental Toxins and Rising Autism Rates.


SuperherbsFour Plants That Fight Off Disease

by Kathleen Barnes

Herbs, respected for their healing properties for millennia, have been widely used by traditional

healers with great success. Now clinical science supports their medicinal qualities. Pharmaceutical companies rou-tinely extract active ingredients from herbs for common medications, includ-ing the potent pain reliever codeine, derived from Papaver somniferum; the head-clearing antihistamines ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, from Ephedra si-nica; and taxol, the chemotherapy drug commonly used to treat several types of cancer, including breast cancer, from Taxus brevifolia. These are among the findings according to Leslie Taylor, a naturopath and herbalist headquartered in Milam County, Texas, and author of The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs. Even among an abundance of healing herbs, some stand out as nature’s “superherbs” that provide an array of medical properties, according to Rosemary Gladstar, of Barre, Ver-mont, the renowned author of Herbal

Remedies for Vibrant Health and related works. Two of these, she notes, are widely considered nuisance weeds. Plantain (Plantago major): Com-monly used externally for poultices, open wounds, blood poisoning and bee stings, it also helps relieve a wider variety of skin irritations. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology, this common “weed” fortifies the liver and reduces inflam-mation, which may reduce the risk for many kinds of chronic diseases. At least one study, published in the journal Planta Medica, suggests that plantain can enhance the immune system to help fight cancer and infectious diseases. “Plantain is considered a survival herb because of its high nutritional val-ue,” advises Gladstar, who founded the California School of Herbal Studies, in Sonoma County, in 1978. A new study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry confirms it’s an excellent source of alpha-tocopherol, a natural form of vitamin E and beta

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carotene that can be used in salads for those that don’t mind its bitter taste.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Like plantain, dandelion is one of the most powerful medicinal herbs on the planet. “Dandelion is revered wher-ever you travel, except in the United States, where it is considered noxious,” observes Gladstar. Americans should reconsider their obsession with eradication. Dandelion root is an effective treatment against several types of cancer, including often-fatal pancreatic and colorectal cancers and melanoma, even those that have proven resistant to chemotherapy and other conventional treatments, accord-ing to several studies from the Univer-sity of Windsor, in England. Traditionally part of a detoxification diet, it’s also used to treat digestive ail-ments, reduce swelling and inflammation and stop internal and external bleeding.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Tur-meric gives curry powder its vibrant yellow color. “Curcumin, turmeric’s most important active ingredient, is a wealth of health, backed by substan-tial scientific evidence that upholds its benefits,” says Jan McBarron, a medical and naturopathic doctor in Columbus,

Georgia, author of Curcumin: The 21st Century Cure and co-host of the Duke and the Doctor radio show. Several human and animal stud-ies have shown that curcumin can be an effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, both in prevention and to slow or even stop its progress. One Austra-lian study showed that curcumin helps rid the body of heavy metals that may be an underlying cause of the mem-ory-robbing disease. Scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that curcumin helped dissolve the plaques and tangles of brain mate-rial characteristic to Alzheimer’s. Curcumin is also known to be effective in lessening depression and preventing heart disease, some types of cancer and diabetes, says McBarron.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Primarily used for its considerable anti-

Herb: A plant or a part of a plant that is used as medicine or to give

flavor to food.

~ Merriam Webster

inflammatory properties, ginger makes a delicious and healing tea and an enticing spice in a variety of dishes. This herbal powerhouse has at least 477 active ingre-dients, according to Beyond Aspirin, by Thomas M. Newmark and Paul Schulick. Considerable research confirms ginger’s effectiveness against a vari-ety of digestive problems, including nausea from both morning sickness and chemotherapy. Research from Florida’s University of Miami also confirms its usefulness in reducing knee pain. “Ginger is a good-tasting herb to treat any type of bacterial, fungal or viral infection,” says Linda Mix, a retired registered nurse in Rogersville, Tennesse, and author of Herbs for Life! The health benefits of these four vital herbs are easily accessed by grow-ing them in a home garden or pot or via extracted supplements.

Kathleen Barnes is the author of Rx from the Garden: 101 Food Cures You Can Easily Grow. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.

Note: For referenced studies, check the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

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Fresh Food TrendsNatural Trailblazers in Sustainable Eating

by Melinda Hemmelgarn

There’s even a new term, “hyperlo-cal”, to describe produce harvest-ed fresh from onsite gardens at

restaurants, schools, supermarkets and hospitals—all designed for sourcing tasty, nutrient-rich foods minus the fuel-guzzling transportation costs. Adding emphasis to the need to preserve vital local food sources, the United Nations has designated 2014 as the Internation-al Year of Family Farming. Here are four thriving food trends resulting from shifts in Americans’ thinking and our growing love for all things local.

ForagingWhat could be more entertaining and economical than searching for and gath-ering wild foods in their natural habitat? From paw paws and persimmons in Mis-souri to palmetto berries in Florida and seaweed in California, Mother Nature provides a feast at her children’s feet. Commonly foraged foods include nuts,

mushrooms, greens, herbs, fruits and even shellfish. To learn how to identify regional native wild foods and cash in on some “free” nutritious meals, foragers need to know where and when to har-vest their bounty. Conservation depart-ments and state and national parks often offer helpful field guides and recipes. Jill Nussinow, also known as The Veggie Queen, a registered dietitian and cookbook author in Santa Rosa, California, characterizes foraging as “nature’s treasure hunt.” Nussinow says she forages for the thrill of it and be-cause, “It puts you very much in touch with the seasons.” On her typical foraging excursions through forests and on beaches, Nussi-now notes, “You never know what you might find: mushrooms, berries, miner’s lettuce, mustard pods or sea vegetables. It’s free food, there for the picking.” However, she warns, “You have to know what you are doing. Some wild foods can be harmful.”

For example, Nussinow advises getting to know about mushrooms before venturing forth to pick them. She recommends the book Mushrooms De-mystified, by David Arora, as a learning tool, and checking with local myco-logical associations for safe mushroom identification. She also likes the advice of “Wildman” Steve Brill, of New York City, who publishes educational articles at WildmanSteveBrill.com. “He knows more about wild foods than anyone I know,” she says. Vermont wildcrafter Nova Kim teaches her students not only how to identify wild edibles, but also how to harvest them sustainably. It’s critical to make sure wild foods will be available for future generations.

FermentationKefir, kimchi, kombucha and sauerkraut all owe their unique flavors to fermenta-tion. Sandor Katz, author of The Art of Fermentation: An In-Depth Exploration of Essential Concepts and Processes From Around the World, is a self-described “fermentation revivalist”. He explains how microorganisms, such as lactic acid bacteria that are universally present on raw vegetables and in milk, transform fresh food into preserved sustenance.

Katz recalls how his boyhood love for sour pickles grew to an “obsession with all things fermented.” An abun-dant garden crop of cabbage left him wondering, “What are we going to do with all that cabbage?” The answer came naturally: “Let’s make sauerkraut.” Subsequently, Katz has become an in-ternational expert on the art and science of fermentation from wine to brine and beyond, collecting recipes and wisdom from past generations (WildFermentation.com). He observes, “Every single culture enjoys fermented foods.” Increasing respect and rever-ence for fermented foods and related communities of beneficial microor-ganisms is a new frontier in nutrition and medical sciences. For example, several researchers at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics annual meeting last fall in Houston, Texas, described the connections between the trillions of bacteria living in the human gut, known as the “microbiota”, and men-tal and physical health. Kelly Tappen-den, Ph.D., a professor of nutrition and

Food experts have listed local, regional and sustainable foods among

the top food trends for 2014. Consumers’ heightened environmental

awareness and their love for fresh flavors are responsible.


gastrointestinal physiology with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Cham-paign, explained that gut bacteria play a variety of roles, including assisting in the digestion and absorption of nutrients; influencing gene expression; supporting the immune system; and affecting body weight and susceptibility to chronic disease.

Feed MattersThe popular adage, “We are what we eat,” applies to animals, as well. New research from Washington State Univer-sity shows that organic whole milk from pasture-fed cows contains 62 percent higher levels of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids compared to conventional, or non-organic, whole milk. The striking difference is accounted for by the fact that the U.S. Department of Agricul-ture’s national organic program legally requires that organic cows have access to pasture throughout the grazing season. The more time cows spend on high-quality pasture, which includes grass, legumes and hay, the more beneficial the fats will be in their milk. On the other hand, when ruminant animals, designed to graze on pasture, are fed a steady diet of corn and soy, both their milk and meat contain less beneficial fat.

Top 10 Food Trends for 2014

1 Locally sourced meats and seafood

2 Locally grown produce

3 Environmental sustainability

4 Healthful kids’ meals

5 Gluten-free cuisine

6 Hyperlocal sourcing (e.g. restaurant gardens)

7 Children’s nutrition

8 Non-wheat noodles/pasta (e.g. quinoa, rice, buckwheat)

9 Sustainable seafood

10 Farm/estate-branded items

Source: Restaurant.org


According to Captain Joseph Hib-beln, a lipid biochemist and physician at the National Institutes of Health, American diets have become deficient in omega-3 fatty acids over the past 100 years, largely because of industrial agri-culture. Hibbeln believes that consuming more omega-3s may be one of the most important dietary changes Americans can make to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health and enhance children’s brain and eye devel-opment, including boosting their IQs. Coldwater fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines provide excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, dairy and meat from animals raised on pasture can improve our intake, as well.

FaithHow might eating with the “creation” in mind influence food and agricul-ture trends? Barbara Ross, director of social services for Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri, be-lieves, “People’s common denominator is that we are all part of and integral to the creation.” She considers how “Food, agriculture, environment and economy are bound together in a way that requires we think, plan and act for the dignity of each person and the common good of the human family.” Ross explains that the choices we make in these vital areas affect the richness of our soils, the purity of our air and water and the health of all living things. Marie George, Ph.D., a professor of philosophy at St. John’s University, in Queens, New York, agrees, “The serious ecological crises we see today stem

from the way we think,” and “reveal an urgent moral need for a new solidarity” to be better stewards of the Earth and its creatures. For example, George sees it as contrary to human dignity to cause animals to suffer; that’s why she op-poses gestation crates and the push for cheap food that exploits animals and the environment in the process. Kelly Moltzen, a registered dietitian in Bronx, New York, shares a passion for addressing food justice and sustain-ability from her faith-based perspective of Franciscan spirituality. She believes that, “When we connect our spirituality with the daily act of eating, we can eat in a way that leads to a right relationship with our Creator.” By bridging spiritual-ity with nutrition and the food system, Moltzen hopes to raise awareness of how people can care for their body as a temple and live in right relationship with the Earth, which she perceives as “the larger house of God.” Fred Bahnson, director of the Food, Faith and Religious Leadership Initiative at Wake Forest University’s School of Divinity, in Winston-Salem, North Caro-lina, is the author of Soil and Sacrament: A Spiritual Memoir of Food and Faith. His book takes the reader on a journey to four different faith communities—Catholic, Protestant, Pentecostal and Jewish—to explore connections between spiritual nourishment and the cultivation of food. Bahnson speaks about sacred soil and the communities of mystical microorganisms that lie within and create the foundation for sustenance. He also describes the special power of communal gardens, which welcome all and provide nourishing food, yet come to satisfy more than physical hunger. Regardless of religious denomina-tion, Amanda Archibald, a registered dietitian in Boulder, Colorado, believes, “We are in a new era of food—one that embraces and honors food producers and food systems that respect soil, envi-ronment and humanity itself.”

Melinda Hemmelgarn, aka the “food sleuth”, is a registered dietitian and award-winning writer and radio host at KOPN.org, in Columbia, MO ([email protected]). She advocates for organic farmers at Enduring-Image.blogspot.com.

Hyperlocal Superstars

Food Corps is a national nonprofit with a mission to improve school food and thus children’s health and lifelong potential. Active in 15 states, it places teams of young teachers in limited-resource communities to establish school gardens, provide food-based nutrition education and supplement school meals with garden fresh pro-duce. Visit FoodCorps.org.


businessspotlight

The Short and Stout Specialty Tea

Shop started out in 2011 online, but owners Matt and Joyce Zacharewicz always envisioned it as a brick-and-mortar business. Matt states, “We’d been trying to push online store at first until we happened upon the Altamont Elementary School Craft Fair. That changed our focus because of the enjoyment and success we were having with the one-on-one interactions. It is great to meet so many people excited about tea. We started booking as many craft fairs, shows and expos we could in the Albany area. On October 1, we opened the doors in Guilderland.” Short and Stout Tea focuses on fun, exciting, fusion tea blends with a strong foundation of traditional teas.

With more than 100 unique whole leaf teas, there’s something for everyone, whether the customer wants traditional black tea, green tea, white tea or a blend of teas with flavors added. Matt and Joyce can blend teas on the spot. They also

offer a variety of tea infused pastries and craft teas, including their best-seller chai latte and their popular bubble tea. Their iced tea versions are a play on sangria and Thai iced tea. Joyce says, “Iced teas are going to be on everyone’s mind in the next two months, so we are revising our premium iced tea list.” In addition to tea, Short and Stout carries a wide variety of herbal tisanes. Short and Stout Tea features a retail section where customers can buy loose tea and tea accessories for

A Tea Shop with Benefitsby Martin Miron

Joyce and Matt Zacharewicz

brewing tea at home. The shop offers comfortable seating in three differently styled areas to enjoy tea and a sweet or savory pastry. There’s free Wi-Fi and a room that can be rented for private parties. An open (acoustic) mic night is the last Friday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m., and the couple hosts an educational talk on the second Tues-day of every month on different tea related topics.

Short and Stout Specialty Tea Shop is lo-cated at 1736a Western Ave., in Guilder-land. For more information, call 518-456-8327 or visit ShortAndStoutTea.com and Facebook for updates and giveaways.


marketspotlights

Four Seasons Natural Foods Retail

Store and Café was started in 1988 in Sara-toga Springs by Robert and Isabel Landes, and Richard Frank purchased the business in 1991. With a staff of 25 employees, Frank says, “They are the lifeblood of the business and do most of everything that needs to hap-pen here, from register, stock, cooking, cleaning and customer service.” Being a local, downtown mer-chant, he believes in being low-key and helpful, noting, “We try to be librarians of our field, helping people make the best choices for themselves. We also re-duce our waste stream and impact with composting, recycling, 100 percent green energy and solar hot water panels on our roof.” Four Seasons recognizes that they are competing in a world where volume and size equates to better buying power. Small is beautiful, but chain stores can buy at big discounts, so it makes it a challenge to stay competitive on price. Franks says, “True, we can offer a differ-ent experience, but in then end, I want

to feel good that we are giving reasonable value in addition to our other attributes. I think we do pretty well with it, and our ex-pansion will help us to do better.” The store is moving in May to to 120

Henry Street, while the café will be expanded at the present 33 Phila Street location. “We just introduced a way for our customers to be a part and help the effort—MovingDayFund.com. There, they can purchase gift cards to be used after we move and get 5 to 20 percent added on to the card, with no expiration or exclusions, to be used in the cafe or store. It will really help us, because we are spending a lot of money now and are happy to help with the added spend-ing money as a thank-you,” says Frank. “We care about the products,” says Frank. “It’s never been just about mak-ing money and hope it never will be.”

Four Seasons Natural Foods Store and Café is located at 33 Phila St., in Sara-toga Springs. For more information, call 518-584-4670 or visit FourSeasons NaturalFoods.com. See ad, page 22.

Four Seasons Natural Foods Store and Café


Green GrocerLocal, Fresh and Healthy

Moorfield’s Green Grocer, in Clifton Park, is a real mom-and-pop operation.

Owners Barbara Moore and Bjorn Loftfield started the store in 1995 and have been trying to “survive into the future and keep paying the bills,” as they joke, but there’s more to it than that. They bring a wide selection of retail natural foods, including organic produce, supplements, local foods, gluten-free, bulk, body-care and more to the Capital District. Moore notes, “Many things have changed in the last 19 years, but we’re proud to say that we are still here providing fresh organic produce, vitamins and supplements, quality health and beauty products, and of course, a great selection of natural and organic groceries.” A knowledgeable staff is ready to assist customers seven days a week, and a motivational or educa-tional health quote greets website visitors weekly. Those who buy a Green Grocer reusable shopping bag receive either 5 percent off on purchases or 10 percent off on supplements every time the bag is used in the store.

Location: 1505 Rte. 9, Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-383-1613 or visit TheGreenGrocer.com for specials. See ad, page 51.

Niskayuna Co-op Still Going Strong After All These Years

Niskayuna Co-op, a consumer-operated cooperative market with

65 employees, began in 1943 by Niskayuna residents that wanted to establish a convenient, neigh-borhood grocery store and save gas during war rationing. Open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, the store features locally produced products, an interna-tional deli, specialty cut butchers and organic/gluten-free products. Well-known local brands on hand include Gatherer’s Granola, Saratoga Peanut Butter Company, Earthly Remedies by Erin and Kanine Krunchies. Marketing Director Ben Wallach says, “We carry unique products and focus on customer service. Because we’re an independent market owned by our shoppers, we can stock many local grocery products and customer requests that are often missing or hard to find in large chain stores. We respond directly to special requests and bring in the products they want. We are not corporate and also keep profits in the community.” Members and non-member can shop at the Co-op. Lifetime member-ships are still $5, just as in 1943. Special member benefits include coupon incentives, discount pricing, membership specials and check-cashing privi-leges. The Co-op supports school and community activities such as Niska-yuna Day, high school student awards and sponsorship of many school and scouting events. At Niskayuna Co-op, winner of the 2013 Schenectady Chamber Award, every third Saturday is Super SAT Sampling day, so the next one is May 17.

Niskayuna Co-op is located at 2227 Nott St., in Niskayuna. For more infor-mation, call 518-374-1362 or visit NiskayunaCo-op.com. See ad, page 3.


consciouseating

Although following a diet with-out gluten has become easier due to increased availability

and labeling of gluten-free foods, we still need to know how to make sure which foods strictly qualify. We always have more control in our own kitchen, yet we’re not always eating at home. Natural Awakenings asked experts to comment on reasons for the demand and offer practical tips and tactics for healthy eating on the go. According to the Center for Celiac Research & Treatment, 18 million Americans are now gluten sensitive, 3 million more suffer from celiac disease, and the numbers continue to skyrocket, says Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurolo-gist and author of Grain Brain. Gluten, a naturally occurring protein in wheat, barley and rye, is prevalent in the mod-ern American diet. Perlmutter points to new wheat hybrids and increasing amounts of gluten in processed foods as exacerbating the problem. He particu-larly cites today’s overuse of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications as contributors to “inappropriate and excessive reactions to what might oth-erwise have represented a non-threat-ening protein like gluten.”

Solutions at WorkJules Shepard, a mother of two in Washington, D.C., and author of Free for All Cooking: 150 Easy Gluten-Free, Allergy-Friendly Recipes the Whole Family Can Enjoy who also shares reci-pes at Blog.JulesGlutenFree.com, re-members when going out for a gluten-free lunch was difficult. “The friendly

GLUTEN-FREE ON THE GOSafe Eating Away from Home

by Judith Fertig

lunch spots my coworkers and I used to enjoy on a weekly and sometimes even daily basis were no longer friendly for me,” she says. “There was nothing on the menu I could eat, and it seemed better for everyone if I simply stayed in the office. But it isolated me socially from my colleagues and deprived me of a much-needed midday break that had been such an enjoyable part of my routine.” Attending catered breakfasts or lunches for office meetings also pre-sented difficulties. Shepard learned that it’s best to be pre-pared and pack something, even if it’s only a snack. “Some of my favorites include fresh fruit, like apples or bananas with peanut or almond butter, washed berries, apple-sauce, coconut yogurt, hummus and red peppers, trail mix, dry cereals like granola, and nu-trition bars. I keep a variety of these bars in my purse and car year-round, so I’m never bored with my choices.” “Gluten-free instant oat-meal is a staple in my life,” advises


Shepard. She never leaves home with-out it, regardless of the length of the trip. “All you need is a cup or a bowl and some boiling water. Be sure to buy certified gluten-free oats, because regu-lar oats can be contaminated with glu-ten grains.” Shepard also recommends avoiding pre-sweetened varieties. Kate Chan, a teacher and mother of two in suburban Seattle, Washington, who has been following a gluten-free diet since 2000, has solved the problem of eating healthy at work another way: The family cooks extra the night before. “While cleaning up the kitchen, I just pack the leftovers for lunch. I like to vary the side dishes a bit if I pack side dishes at all, and toss in fruit and more vegetables,” she says. Chan likes to use a bento-style lunch box with several compartments, plus thermal containers, so she can enjoy a variety of gluten-free lunch options.

On the RoadIn Los Angeles, California, Kristine Kidd, former food editor at Bon Appé-tit, has recently returned to gluten-free eating. On her menu-planning and recipe blog, KristineKidd.com, and in her cookbook, Weeknight Gluten Free, she recommends whole, fresh foods from farmers’ markets that are naturally gluten-free. When she and her husband hike the Sierra Moun-tains, she carries homemade, high-fiber, gluten-free cookies to eat on the way up and packs gluten-free soups such as butternut squash and black bean, corn tortillas with fresh fillings, and fruit for a delicious lunch upon reaching the peak. Some gluten-free snacks can con-tain as many empty calories as other types of junk food, notes Registered Dietitian Katharine Tallmadge. “Many ‘gluten-free’ products are made with refined, unenriched grains and starches, which contain plenty of calories, but few vitamins or minerals.” She agrees with Kidd and others that choosing whole, natural, fresh foods, which are naturally gluten-free, makes for healthy eating wherever we go.

Judith Fertig blogs at AlfrescoFoodAnd Lifestyle.blogspot.com from Overland Park, KS.


healthykids

In recent years, Pe-diatrician William Sears has seen

many more cases of asthma and eczema in his San Clemente, California, office. Dairy and wheat remain the biggest cul-prits, but experts believe new factors may be contributing to the rise in food sensi-tivities, including synthetic addi-tives like partially hydrogenated oils, artificial col-ors and flavors and sweeteners, plus genetically modi-fied ingredients. Often un-diagnosed and untreated, food intolerances can cause long-term tissue damage, warns Sears, author of The NDD Book, which addresses what he calls nutri-ent deficit disorder without resorting to drugs. Increasingly, kids are developing formerly adult-onset diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, depression, cardiovascular disease and acid reflux, he says. If it seems that a child is having a dietary reaction, first look for clues. “A lot of parents already suspect the answer,” says Kelly Dorfman, a licensed nutri-

Action Plan for ParentsSeven Signs of

Food Sensitivitiesby Pamela Bond

tionist dietitian and author of What’s Eating Your Child? Become

a “nutrition detec-tive”, she suggests. Here’s how to assess conditions and find

solutions.

Spitting UpSuspects: Intoler-

ance to casein—a protein prevalent in dairy cow milk different from its form in breast milk that can get

into mothers’ milk or formula—tends to irritate an infant’s

gut lining, causing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and then

chronic ear infec-tions or constipation, says Dorfman.

Action: Remove dairy from the baby’s and nursing mom’s diet for at least a

week. For formula feeding, choose a brand made with predigested casein or whey. To heal baby’s damaged intestinal lining, give 10 billion CFU (colony form-ing units) daily of probiotic bacteria, mixed in a bottle or sprinkled on food.

Chronic DiarrheaSuspects: Intolerance to gluten (a

protein in wheat and other grains) or lactose (dairy sugar). Diarrhea, the gastrointestinal tract’s way of eliminat-ing problematic substances, plus gas and bloating, often accompany these intolerances. Lactose intolerance is usually a root cause and is present in nearly everyone that’s gluten intolerant, Dorfman says.

Action: Get a blood test to check for celiac disease, then eliminate gluten for at least a month. Although the diarrhea could end within a week, “You need a few weeks to see a trend,” counsels Dorfman. Consume fermented dairy products like cheese and yogurt, which have low lactose levels; cream dairy products may also test OK.

Chronic Ear InfectionsSuspects: Dairy intolerance and for many, soy sensitivity. Some research has shown that 90 percent of kids with recurring ear infections or ear fluid have food reactions, corroborated by Dorfman’s patients.

Action: Quit dairy and soy for several months to verify a correlation. Dorfman recommends eliminating soy milk, soy yogurt and tofu, adding that ultrasensitive individuals may need to avoid processed foods that contain soy byproducts.

Itchy SkinSuspects: Reaction to gluten, casein (in dairy products) and eggs plus oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons, straw-berries and pineapple.

Action: Because itchiness can suggest a histamine response, ask an allergist for an IgE radioallergosorbent (RAST) blood test to detect food sensitivities.

HyperactivitySuspects: Sensitivity to artificial colors or sugar. According to Sears, children’s underdeveloped blood-brain barrier increases vulnerability to the neuro-toxic effects of chemical food additives, including artificial colors and monoso-dium glutamate (MSG).

When possible, buy organic foods certified to contain no artificial colors.


Action: When possible, buy organic foods certified to contain no artificial colors. Otherwise, scrutinize food labels for the nine petroleum-based synthetic dyes in U.S. foods: Blue 1 and 2, Citrus Red 2, Green 3, Orange B, Red 3 and 40, Yellow 5 and 6. Avoid in-gredients like high-fructose corn syrup, sucrose, glucose, fructose, cane sugar and syrup—all added sugars.

CrankinessSuspects: Gluten sensitivity is tradi-tionally associated exclusively with digestive disturbances, but some recent studies have linked it to neu-rological symptoms, from moodiness and chronic headaches to ADHD and coordination loss.

Action: Eliminate gluten for a month to assess a potential connection between mood and food, possibly signaled by excessive eating of a certain food.

Stunted GrowthSuspects: Gluten sensitivity or zinc deficiency. Because gluten intoler-ance interferes with nutrient absorp-tion, suffering kids often fail to thrive. “Small size—height or weight—is a classic symptom of celiac disease,” Dorfman advises. Zinc could be another factor; it normalizes appetite and through its relationship with growth hormones, helps the body develop. If levels are too low, growth will be abnormally stunted. In such cases, a child may rarely be hungry, be a picky eater or complain that food smells or tastes funny, Dorfman says.

Action: Eliminate gluten consumption for a month. A blood test by a pediatri-cian can determine serum zinc levels, or buy a zinc sulfate taste test online. After sipping a zinc sulfate solution, the child will report either tasting nothing (indicat-ing deficiency) or a bad flavor (no de-ficiency). Zinc-rich foods include beef, chicken, beans, pumpkin seeds, cashews and chickpeas. To counter a deficiency, ask a family healthcare provider for an age-appropriate supplement dose.

Pamela Bond is the managing editor of Natural Foods Merchandiser.

Tiny Tots Tea Room is a café offering play for

children of all ages and abilities. Serving a large menu of espresso bever-ages, Tiny Tots teas, family-friendly foods and desserts, they offer a full menu of dishes that are free of gluten, dairy, egg, peanut and soy. All baking is done onsite with care and love. Special care is taken to avoid cross-contamination. Owner Sari Medick is president-elect of the Rotterdam Sunrise Rotary, and has been cooking and baking gluten-free and dairy-free for more than 15 years, ever since learning her youngest child is allergic. Offering open play six days a week, parents can drop off kids at specified days and times and they can receive dinner, drinks, dessert, crafts, baby sitting, play and more. Birthday parties for ages 1 to 16 are held on Saturdays and Sundays.

Medick says, “We pride ourselves on having our own tea line; over 25 varieties of yummy, healthy loose teas to choose from. We also carry Isagenix and Juice Plus in our facility—two very healthy options for the moms who are chasing after little ones. We also promote and offer as much ‘buy local’ as

possible. We network with many lo-cal businesses and use as much local product in our business as possible.” Tiny Tots Tea Room will host a fundraiser in May for Hannah’s Hope Foundation, in partnership with New England Nanny, and will be hosting their third annual Show Your Love for Tiny Tots Tea Room photo contest beginning in June.

Location: 1536 Crescent Rd., Plaza 8, in Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-348-1050 or visit TinyTotsTearoom.com. See ad, page 21.

Tiny Tots Tea Room Committed to Being a Safe Haven

from Food Allergensby Wesley Delanoy

Sari Medick


fitbody

Tweet those Fitness GoalsOnline Friends Help Us Stay on Track

by Tamara Grand

Humans are inherently social creatures. Most of us enjoy the company of others and

spend much of our waking time engag-ing in social interactions with col-leagues, friends and family. People that spend a lot of time together often adopt one another’s eating and exercise hab-its—sometimes for the better, but often for the worse. At least one positive side to wish-ing to conform socially is unexpected. Finding the right circle of friends—our own personal support group—can make sticking to an exercise schedule or diet easier. It’s a key factor in the popularity of organized weight-loss groups and exercise classes. Studies published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology and the Journal of Obesity demonstrate that just having a weight-loss or fitness support system in place results in better adherence to diet and exercise with more pounds shed and kept off over the long term. Researchers believe that in

addition to the motivation and account-ability supporters provide, benefits are also enhanced by learning through ob-serving; changing our behavior through watching the actions and outcomes of others’ behavior. If we don’t have physical access to a local support group, we can access one online or create our own, using one of the following social media platforms.

FacebookThe leading social networking web-site includes thousands of community and group pages devoted to weight loss, exercise and healthy living. Its search function helps find one that fits our needs. Make an introduction and join the discussion. Participating in a special challenge helps everyone stay motivated.

TwitterThis micro-blogging site is informal and fast-paced, providing nearly instanta-neous feedback. Use Twitter to identify


“It’s a matter of opening our hearts and minds to hearing their voices.

Let me take you on your spiritual journey”- Paula Marie

Angels Are All Around Us

Paula Marie Histed 239-370-7928

[email protected] www.paulamariehisted.com

Individual Spiritual Readings ~ Numerology ProfilesMeditation / Workshops ~ Phone Readings

Serving the Capital District and Beyond

friends with similar health and fitness goals. Follow links to motivational photos, low-calorie recipes and at-home workouts. Tweeting when feeling the urge to eat virtually guarantees that we’ll receive a helpful response in a minute or two. Twitter chats are also a fabulous way to connect with an estab-lished and helpful healthy living tribe.

PinterestA visual smorgasbord of clean-eating recipes, at-home workouts and inspira-tional photos keeps spirits up. Pinterest accesses photos throughout the Internet that we can grab and “pin” to a person-al online vision board. It’s also possible to create a visual cookbook, pinning recipes to, for example, clean eating, Paleo, pumpkin and oatmeal themed boards. It’s fun to connect with our favorite healthy living peeps and start following their boards for continuous injections of inspiration and motivation.

InstagramLove to take photos using a smartphone? Instagram provides a platform for sharing snippets of our day via pictures. Fitness fans regularly “Instagram” their meals and workouts, in part to remain account-able to their online followers, but also to help motivate themselves and others to make healthy choices each day.

YouTubeOur go-to resource for music videos is also home to hundreds of healthy living “channels”. Want to follow someone’s 100-pound weight-loss journey, learn how to cook quinoa or follow along with free, at-home workout videos? This is the place. Watch, share and com-ment on a favorite YouTube video to become part of its online community.

The key to using social media to improve our health and fitness is inherent in the name. It’s a friendly way to inter-act, participate and engage with others.

Tamara Grand, Ph.D., is a certified per-sonal trainer and a group fitness and in-door cycling instructor in Port Moody, British Columbia, in Canada. Her new book is Ultimate Booty Workouts. She contributes to Life.Gaiam.com and blogs at FitKnitChick.com.


calendarofeventsNOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and ad-here to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at AlbanyAwakenings.com (within advertising section).

SATURDAY, MAY 10

SATURDAY, MAY 10 – SUNDAY, MAY 11

SHIFT New York Holistic & 10th Annual Spiritual Arts Fair – May 10-11. 10am-5pm. Sat & Sun. Featuring over 22 free spiritual workshops, metaphysical gifts and crafts. 12 intuitive readers and transformative healing sessions. $6 advance. $8 door. Hunt Union at SUNY Oneonta Campus. Info: 607-433-2089. ShiftNewYork.com.

markyourcalendar

Day of Pampering – 11am-1pm or 2-4pm. Includes massage, facial, life reading and detoxing foot bath. $109. Limited space. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Am-sterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia. Register: 518-372-4706.Grand Opening & Mother’s Day Celebration – 1-5pm Celebrate the grand opening of Sanctuary Massage’s new Schenectady location. Raffles, teas, special pricing on Mother’s Day gift certificates. 864 Burdeck St, Rotterdam. 518-952-1161.

SATURDAY, MAY 10Introduction to Vinyasa Yoga – 2-3:30pm. The goal is to build strength, balance and flexibility. To achieve this objective, we’ll breakdown a series of beginner yoga poses always focusing on proper alignment and safety. Colleen McDonald HWY will answer questions. $20. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Register: 518-369-8325.

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Shamanic Healing Circle – 3-7pm. Brings one into the heart behind the heart. Release pains, traumas pressure and stress. Experience rejuvenation and bliss. IKIERA, 34 Cemetery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.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.Metaphysical Book Discussion Group – 6pm. Discussing Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal and Delight in Our Busy Lives by Wayne Muller. Hosted by New Thought New York. By donation. Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence St, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-423-3569.

SATURDAY, MAY 10Darshan with Sai Maa – 6-7pm, Intro to Sai Maa’s Teachings; 7:30pm Darshan. Darshan is an intimate experience of divine presence through a moment with an enlightened master. You will come up individually to Sai Maa to receive Darshan, awakening your divinity within where peace, love and joy reside. No charge; suggested donation $20. Holiday Inn, 205 Wolf Road, Col-onie. Info and registration: SaiMaaAlbany.com.

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THURSDAY, MAY 1CNW School of Massage Open House – 6-8pm. Learn about full and part-time massage therapy train-ing programs, life-long placement services, financial aid, meet alumni and currently enrolled students. Free. CNW School of Massage Therapy, 3 Cerone Commercial Dr, Albany. RSVP: 518-489-4026.Pure Essentials – 6-8pm. Offered by Dawn DuBois, LMT. Learn the benefits and how to integrate pure essential oils into everyday life. $10 material fee. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rte 9, Castle-ton. Register: 518-727-8626.

FRIDAY, MAY 2Retreat & Conversation for Healthcare Profes-sionals – 5pm-8:30/Fri-11am/Sun. Focus on reflec-tive practices as therapeutic tools in healthcare as well as in personal life with an emphasis on medi-tation. Peace Village, Haines Falls. Preregistration requested: 518-589-5000.Nia Dance Party: Dancing with Scarves – 7-8pm. Come dance, smile and play as we free our spirits while dancing with colorful scarves. $18. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. RSVP: 518-452-3679.

SATURDAY, MAY 3Considering Cloth Diapers? – 10-11am. Discussing the advantages of cloth diapering and why it makes sense to use them for babies and toddlers. $10. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Register: 518-274-2229.Community Kirtan – 7-9pm. Ecstatic chanting from the Indian Bhakti (devotional) tradition. Everyone sings together from their hearts, regardless of ability. Sing, dance or lie down and relax. No experience or special skill necessary. Kids welcome with supervi-sion. $15 donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.Lyme Forum – 11am-2pm. Hear the latest cutting-edge therapies to treat Lyme and tick-borne diseases. The Linda, 339 Central Ave, Albany. Registration/Info: 518-689-2244.

SUNDAY, MAY 4Spring Brunch – 10am-2pm. Capital District Com-munity Gardens' 27th annual event. Live music, buffet style brunch, shopping and silent auction. $25 advance; $30 door. Hudson Valley Community College, Siek Campus Center, 80 Vandenburgh Ave, Troy. Info: 518-274-8685.Theories of Atlantis – 12-2pm. With Brenda Jenks. Share in a summary of some of the main theories about the existence of, location of and the way of life in the ancient civilization. $45. Preregistration required. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Wring Out Winter, Twist in Spring –1-2:30pm. Genii Rutherford. Wring out old stuck stress and winter toxins, with this class of progressive asanas with twists that open the whole body to flush out

old energy, fluid and to allow new energy to flow in. $20 in advance. Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Lovingkindness in the Face of Adversity – 7-9pm. With Sharon Salzberg. Guided meditations, talks and time for Q & A. Free. First Unitarian Univer-salist Society, 405 Washington Ave, Albany. Info: 518-339-9443.

TUESDAY, MAY 6From Pill to Conception – 10am. Learn how to restore menstrual and fertility health coming off the pill, patch, shot or other hormonal contraceptives. $10 suggested donation. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. RSVP: Lisa Cartier 518-307-9810.Open Beginner Night of Nia Dance – 6-7pm. Learn the basic moves and begin connecting to joy and healing. No experience necessary. Space limited. $18. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. RSVP: 518-452-3679.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 7Inner & Outer Beauty Circle – 7-8:30pm. Like-hearted women, eager to become joyful beings. Discover how to create a beauty parlor at home. Say “Adieu” to cellulite and start spring without wrinkles. $27 facial treatment. IKIERA, 34 Cem-etery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.

THURSDAY, MAY 8Reiki Training Level 1 – May 8 & 15. 6:30-9:30pm. With Lynn Gelman. Crossroads Gifts and Wellness, 133 Jay St, Schenectady. Registration required. Pric-ing/info: 518-357-8366.Stop Painting Your Walls! American Clay Work-shop – 6-7:30pm. Learn a new “green” way to add color and texture at home with American Clay plasters. Learn how to apply the clay and leave with a self-made sample board. $20 supplies included. Green Conscience Home, 33 Church St, Saratoga Spgs. Reservations required: 518-306-5196.

FRIDAY, MAY 9Tea & Your Health – 6:30-8pm. Dr Qiong Wang takes participants on a journey into the world of teas. Discussing benefits and demonstrating the ancient art of tea-making. Special tea tastings included. Free. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.


WEDNESDAY, MAY 14Aromatherapy Workshop: Make Your Own Lotion – 6:30-8pm. Nicole Fellini, Certified Aromatherapist leads this class about essential oils, uses, dilution rates, carriers, safety and handling. Custom blend a lotion with a specially formulated aromatherapy blend. $35 includes materials. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.Full Moon Meditation – 7- 9pm. Enjoy the special energies of full moon in Scorpio, the sign of transfor-mation. Get a taste of consciousness, peace of mind and a look into one’s inner beauty with this ancient Tibetan meditation. $100 with initiation. IKIERA, 34 Cemetery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.

THURSDAY, MAY 15Spirit Connections – With Lee Ryan Intuitive Me-dium. Make contact with loved ones in spirit. 15-min $25. 30-min $40. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rte 9, Castleton. Appt required: 518-466-9695.

THURSDAY, MAY 15Natural Networking Night – 6-8pm. Gather with Natural Awakenings’ advertisers, readers and supporters. Celebrate the NY Capital District edition and network with the local wellness com-munity. RSVP: AlbanyNaturalNetworkingNight.Eventbrite.com.

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FRIDAY, MAY 16Potluck and Movie Night – 5:15pm dinner; 6pm movie. Join us for a screening of Happy, a documen-tary combining the real life stories of people from around the world and powerful interviews with the leading scientists in happiness research. Discussion following movie. By donation. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton. Info: 518-423-3569.Energy Balancing – 6-7:30pm. Given by Kathleen Fisk, SBS KYI Energy Worker. Schedule a 30-min ses-sion to align and feel alive. $30. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rte 9, Castleton. Appt: 518-272-1139.

FRIDAY, MAY 16Psychosynthesis Professional Training Pro-gram: Introductory Session: 7-8:30pm. Ex-periential and informational. Learn about psy-chosynthesis and upcoming training programs available. 200 Trillium Ln, Albany. Free. Regis-tration required: [email protected]. Info: SynthesisCenter.org/training.htm.

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SATURDAY, MAY 17Chronic Low Milk Supply – 10am. Unable to breastfeed baby due to low milk supply? Receive support from other moms. Free. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. RSVP: Kate, 518-926-0112.

SATURDAY, MAY 17 – SUNDAY, MAY 18

Lifestyle Expo NY – May 17-18. 10am-6pm. Exhibitors bringing together creative products, services and solutions related to sports, recre-ation and healthy living. Shopping, stage shows, food vendors, music, raffles and free samples. $7. Washington Avenue Armory, 195 Washington Ave, Albany. Info: LifestylExpo-NY.com.

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SATURDAY, MAY 17Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra – 2-4pm.With Kathleen Fisk, SBS, KYT Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra Guide and Energy Worker. Lie down, be guided into this ancient method of deep relaxation. Ignite the in-nate healing qualities available when listening. Be introduced to a meditation beyond meditation, a meditation of undoing in this doing world. $20. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Register: 518-369-8325.

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SUNDAY, MAY 18ART-Advanced Reiki Training – 9am-5pm. Take Reiki practice to a deeper spiritual level. Receive an attunement and master symbol, experience a moving meditation, practice Reiki and learn about crystal healing grids. Prerequisite: Reiki II certificate. $225. Preregistration and $75 deposit required. Art of Reiki. Troy. Joyce: 518-271-7802.Inner Leadership – 2-4pm. Create a life filled with more joy and discovery. Connect with purpose and direction. Break free from existing blockages. Sponsored by Capital District Brahma Kumaris. Free. Albany Hindu Temple Cultural Center, 450 Albany Shaker Rd. RSVP: 518-466-3904.Meditation for World Peace – 6:30-7:30pm. Observe as the universe is filled with energy of lightness, radiance and peace. Together, peace, love and care will be sent to our world. For new and experienced meditators alike. Free. Peace Village, Haines Falls. 518-589-5000.

MONDAY, MAY 19Rev Up Your Metabolism – 6-7pm. Monique Boulet, RD and holistic nutritionist leads this in-formational lecture. Gain a better understanding of one’s metabolism, why it often slows down with age and how to reverse a sluggish metabolism and increase energy. Free. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.Monthly Restorative Yoga – 6-7:30pm. A passive stretching that uses props like blankets, bolsters, pil-lows and blocks to support the body as very gentle poses are held. Unwind, restore, meditate and rejuve-nate. Space limited to 10. $15. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

Kirtan – 7-9pm. With Chandrika. Ecstatic chant-ing from the Indian Bhakti (devotional) tradition. Everyone sings together from their hearts, regard-less of ability. Sing, dance or lie down and relax. No experience or special skill necessary. Kids welcome with supervision. $15 donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.Spring Concert – 7:30pm. Capital Community Voices presents “Frontier Fantasies.” Collection of folk and popular songs exploring frontiers of the American West, space, the sea and love and romance. $10 general admission; $8 seniors and students. Genet Elementary School, 29 Englewood Ave, Rte 4, E Greenbush. Info: [email protected].

SUNDAY, MAY 11Open Mic Poetry and Prose – 2pm. Hosted by Nancy Klepsch and Dan Wilcox. One of the Capital Region’s best open mic venues for poetry and spo-ken word. Bring friends and prose for performance. Free. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Info: 518-273-0552.HOPE Pet Adoption Clinic – 1-4pm. Homes for Orphaned Pets Exist will be holding an Adoption Clinic. Wilton Mall, 3065 New York 50, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-428-2994.

TUESDAY, MAY 13Saratoga Stress Reduction Program Spring Session – Eight-week stress-reduction and pain management course taught by Dr Selma Nemer, Caroline Russell Smith and Pierre Zimmerman begins. Contact for cost and details; insurance is accepted. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Floor, Saratoga Spgs. Register: 581-3180 x307.Lifecyles in Balance – 9am-12pm. For those con-sidering conception, having fertility issues or going through the medical fertility process. Addressing un-derlying issues with the goal of optimizing fertility. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Info/appt required: Lisa Cartier, 518-307-9810.Spring into the New Possibility of You: Energy Tools to Create a Phenomenal Life – 6-7pm. Explore the possibilities that can be created to turn every-thing around that seems to be holding one back. $10. Community Massage, 255 River St, Lower Level, Troy. Registration required. Transformational Specialist Barbra Gilman: 929-777-0873.Sleep Workshop – 6-7:30pm. Led by Dr Cheryl Wong. Learn about normal sleep, how sleep affects health, how health issues may affect sleep and get-ting better sleep. Calming tea and a free acupuncture demo. Free. Green Conscience Home and Garden, 33 Church St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-5196.Attitude of Gratitude Workshop – 6:30-8:30pm. Living a life with an attitude of gratitude is a pow-erful way to experience peace and love. Interactive workshop. $25 preregistered. $35 door. Hosted by New Thought New York at the Pine Hollow Arbo-retum, Slingerlands, Preregister, Regina Wagner-Garhartt: 518-466-6846.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 7:45-8:45pm. Learn to make permanent changes in life and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other proven techniques used in a group setting. 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.


enhancement of healing, meditation, prayer and creativity. Learn circular breathing, the breath needed to play this sacred tool relieving sleep apnea, digestion, migraines and stress. BYO pen and paper. $20 advance. $25 door. Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.

SUNDAY, MAY 25

SUNDAY, MAY 25Learn the Celtic Ways of the Wise – May 24-25, June 21-22 and Aug 2. 9am-5pm. Five-days. Weekends only. Designed to start each participant on an ancient path to make a spiritual connection with their personal higher power. Discover the tools and rituals needed to develop one’s intuition, energy, power and intention. Full details/register: ClanOfTheDragon.com.

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MONDAY, MAY 26Memorial Day at miSci – 9am-5pm. Explore Gros-sology, a traveling exhibit about the (impolite) science of the human body; Notion of Motion, hands-on fun from San Francisco’s Exploratorium; MRI: Exam-ining the Human Body and more. $6.50 children 3–12; $8 seniors 65+; $9.50 adults 12+; add $5 for a Planetarium. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Ter Hts, Schenectady. Info: 518-382-7890.

TUESDAY, MAY 27Lifecyles in Balance – 9am-12pm. See May 13 for details. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Info/apt required: Lisa Cartier, 518-307-9810.

WEDNEDAY, MAY 28Making Lip Balms – 8am-5pm. Owner Franesa Pyle demonstrates how to make a lip balm. Work with different butters, waxes and oils to whip up an amazing moisturizing lip balm. $25 includes mate-rials. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.Albany Total Wellness Open House – 6-8pm. DJ, food and beverages, raffles, mini treatments, massage, demos, mini-consults, giveaways and kid-friendly ac-tivities. 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Info: 518-435-1280.New Moon Meditation – 7- 9pm. Share the new moon circle; find a peaceful mind with an ancient Tibetan meditation. $100 with initiation. IKIERA, 34 Cemetery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.

THURSDAY, MAY 29Reiki Training Level 2 – May 29 & June 15. 6:30-9:30pm. With Lynn Gelman. Crossroads Gifts and Wellness, 133 Jay St, Schenectady. Registration required. Pricing/info: 518-357-8366.Green Building and Design Mixer – 5-7pm. Food, drink and music. Mingle with builders, contractors, realtors, bankers, attorneys, designers, architects,

alternative energy providers, suppliers and educa-tors. Network and feel the energy of being around new ideas, concepts and products related to green building and design. Free. Sponsored by Empire Zero Waste. Green Conscience Home and Garden, 33 Church St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-5196.Spirit Connections – 6-7:30pm. See May 15 for details. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rte 9, Castleton. Appt: 518-466-9695.

SATURDAY, MAY 31Open House at Wiawaka Center – 11am-2pm. Tour the property, learn about upcoming programs, BYO bag lunch. 3778 Rte. 9L, Lake George, NY. Info: 518-668-9690.The Energetically Toxic House – 1-3pm. With Brenda Jenks. Learn to identify what may be caus-ing strange events and feelings in the environment. Learn solutions. Time for Q & A. $45. Preregistra-tion required. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

plan aheadTUESDAY, JUNE 3Massage School Exploration Evening – 6-9:30pm. Sample science class, self-care techniques, bodywork demonstration. Receive a gift certificate for a free massage in the Student Clinic. $40/ early. $50/same day. CNW School of Massage Therapy, 3 Cerone Commercial Dr, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

SATURDAY, JUNE 7Doula: A Bridge to End of Life Care – 1-4pm. For family, caregivers and community volunteers. Learn to avoid the 3 mistakes that children of baby boomers make which can create extra anxiety about end of life care for their parents. Presented by Su-zanne B. O’Brien RN, Hospice nurse. By donation. First Lutheran Church, 181 Western Ave. Albany. Info: SuzannebObrien.com.

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Third Annual Cancer Fundraiser: “Get Your Rack Back” – 6:30pm-12am. Proceeds support ACS HopeClub and Floydwarriors.com. Food, entertain-ment, silent auction and more. Hilton Garden Inn, 235 Hoosick Street, Troy. $65. Tickets: GetYour RackBack.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 8Bank of America Pride 5K – 8am/registration. Show pride while supporting the Pride Center of the Capital Region. Start/finish at Washington Park Lake House, Albany. Info/registration forms: 518-462-6138.

SATURDAY, JUNE 14Day of Pampering – See May 10 for details. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia. Register: 518-372-4706.Capital Pride Festival – 12pm/parade; festival fol-lows. Washington Park, Albany. Info: Pride Center of the Capital Region, 518-462-6138.

Women’s Health Workshop – 6:10-7pm. Topic: Balancing Hormones Naturally. Learn about strengthening the immune system to prevent illness and disease, handling stress and headaches and im-proving posture. Free. Ferguson Family Chiroprac-tic, 1783 Rte 9, Clifton Park. Info: 518-383-5595.

TUESDAY, MAY 20Nutritional Cleansing – 10am. Learn about cellular cleansing, which rids the body of unwanted toxins while providing essential nutrients. Free. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Reg-ister: Facebook Event Page. Dale: 518-755-6550.Massage Demonstration and Information Session – 6-7:30pm. Learn about massage therapy training pro-grams, life-long placement services and financial aid. Observe a chair massage demonstration and tour the school. Free. CNW School of Massage Therapy, 3 Ce-rone Commercial Dr, Albany. RSVP: 518-489-4026.

WEDNEDAY, MAY 21Pathways to Family Wellness Group Gathering – 10:30-11:30am. Educational outreach program connecting practitioners with families in the em-powering and emerging paradigm of holism and conscious choice which means making informed health choices that are right for the family. Kids welcome. Ferguson Family Chiropractic, 1783 Rte 9, Clifton Park. Info: 518-383-5595.Monthly Movie Night – 6-8pm. Louise Hay’s You Can Heal Your Life. Movie screening and discus-sion with the professionals at Vitality Health Center. $10 Donation. 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia. Registration: 518-372-4706.Inner & Outer Beauty Circle – 7-8:30pm. See May 7 for details. IKIERA, 34 Cemetery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.

THURSDAY, MAY 22Access Consciousness Energetic Coaching – 6-7pm. Change can be quick and fun; like deleting old files from the computer. Find out how with transformational specialist Barbara Gilman. $10. Community Massage, 255 River St, Lower Level, Troy. Registration required: 929-777-0873.

FRIDAY, MAY 23Earthly Remedies – 10am-1pm. Meet Erin Ethier, owner of Earthly Remedies. Product demonstrations, raffles and giveaways. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. Info: 518-534-3003.

SATURDAY, MAY 24Become an Access Consciousness Bars Practitio-ner – 10am-5pm. By touching 32 points on the head, limiting beliefs are released, like deleting old files off the computer and then allowing something new and wonderful to show up. Held in Saratoga Spgs. Call for details. Registration required: 929-777-0873.Awaken Your Inner Goddess Workshop – 3-7pm. Be liberated from ideas of beauty and status and still be cre-ative, successful and happy as female beings. Celebrate womanhood and dance inner goddess. $117. IKIERA, 34 Cemetery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.Spiritual Australian Didgeridoo Workshop – 7pm. With Phil Shiva Jones. Discover the use of breath and sound frequencies to connect with the Divine. Create a serene state of consciousness for


ongoingcalendarNOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at AlbanyAwakenings.com (within advertising section).

dailyLocal Art Show at Community Massage – Explore a continually changing exhibit of local artists’ works. Community Massage and Holistic Therapies, 255 River St, Troy. Info/times: 518-272-1400.New Beginnings Meditation Course – Albany/Schenectady area. Free. Info/appt: 518-466-3904.Tune In To Wellness Today TV Show – With LisaMarie Tersigni. Meet local wellness provid-ers and learn the benefits of natural wellness modalities, services and products available. View: 24/7, sacc.tv.Visit Peace Village – 9am-6pm. Experience self-discovery, relax, silence, solitude and find peace of mind. Meet others interested in integrating a spiritual dimension into life. Daily tours. Call ahead. Peace Village, 54 O’Hara Rd, Rte 23A, Haines Falls. Info: 518-589-5000.

sundayGuided Yoga and Meditation Practices – 8-9:30am. First Unitarian Society of Schenectady. Free. 1221 Wendell Ave, Schenectady. Info: 518-374-4446.Dharma Meditation – 9am. Weekly meditation followed up by short discussion. About 75-min. All contemplative traditions honored. $10 donation. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624.Dr Joe on the Radio – 12:45pm. Dr Joseph Guylas of Northeast Spine and Wellness gives his weekly radio show including tips for better health. Tune in to 101.3 FM.Yoga of 12 Step Recovery (Y12SR) – 3-5pm. 1st Sun. Group sharing circle and themed yoga class integrating wisdom of yoga and the practical tools of 12-step programs. $12-$16 donation. Shanti Yoga, 135 2nd St, Troy. Info: 518-365-5660.Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 4-5:30pm. Expand awareness, strengthen body, increase stam-ina and elevate consciousness through movement, asana, powerful pranayama and deep meditation. Drop-in classes. Heartspace Yoga, 747 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-712-9642.

mondayReflexology – 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.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.

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, 1736a Western Ave, Albany. Preregister/Info: 518-456-8327.Holistic Healthy Living Group Program – 6:30-8pm. For people ready to beat disease, become energized, lose weight, feel great and live well. Twice monthly for 3 months. Small class size. Info: 518-292-8767.E-Squared – 6:30-8:30pm. Thru June 3. Class based on Pam Grout’s New York Times’ Bestselling book. E-Squared Nine Do-It-Yourself Energy Experiments That Prove Your Thoughts Create Your Reality. By donation. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton, 518-423-3569.Hypnosis Workshop – 6:30-9:30pm. Find out more about hypnosis with NGH hypnosis instruc-tor, George Guarino. $12.50. Albany. Info: 518-256-6549.An Evening with the Docs – 7pm. 2nd Tues. Eve-ning of wine and cheese discussing current health care topics. Bring a friend. AAC Family Wellness, 402 Rowland St, Ballston Spa. Info: 518-363-0202.

wednesdayIntuitive Readings with Julie – 11am-2pm. By ap-pointment. $40/30-min. Crossroads Gifts and Well-ness, 133 Jay St, Schenectady. Info: 518-357-8366.Detox Flow – 4:15-5:30pm.With Colleen. Twists, massage and conscious breathing to assist the elimi-nation systems. Purge toxic thoughts. Experience a calmer mind and a clearer connection of body, mind and spirit. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 5:45-7:15pm. Expand awareness, strengthen body, increase stam-ina and elevate consciousness through movement, asana, powerful pranayama and deep meditation. Drop-in classes. Heartspace Yoga, 10 Second St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Info: 518-712-9642.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.

In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Meditation by Donation – 6-7pm. Basic meditation instruction and introduction to the format of Zazen practice. Two 20-30-minute sitting meditations, short walking meditation and chanting. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Register: 518-595-3067.

tuesdayBody Fat Screening/Blood Pressure Testing – 11am-2pm. Personal Trainer Jeff Grayson Miller has instruments to test body fat and blood pressure and the know-how to translate those numbers into healthy information. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. Info: 518-482-2667.Classical Hatha Yoga – 4:30-5:45pm or 6:30-7:45pm. Practice yoga in its purest state. Reduce stress and pain. $15/drop in or $70/6 classes. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia. Register: 518-372-4706.Pilates: Basic Mat Class – 5:30pm. Healing With Movement Pilates, 2021 Western Ave, Albany. $20/class. Penny: 518 669-9677.Lyme Support Group – 6pm. 2nd Tues. Share sto-ries, frustrations and achievements. Find support and


Tea and Qigong – 7-8:30pm. With Dr Wang. Chi-nese medicinal tea sampling and movement. $15. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518- 581-3180.

thursdayTai Chi – 9-10:30am. Thru June 26. Tai Chi is a mind and body fitness practice used by many to promote health and wellness, reduce stress and help cope with a variety of health issues. $10/drop-in. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Info: 518-273-0552.Discount Day – Thru May 31. Half price on Ion-Cleanse Detox Foot Bath, Rife Therapy, Live Cell Microscopic Viewing. 10% off store items. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd (Rte 5), Scotia. Info/hours: 518-372-4706.Breastfeeding Support Group – 10:30am-12pm. 1st Thurs. For moms, their breastfed babies and tod-dlers with a certified lactation counselor available to answer any questions or concerns. Anyone pregnant and thinking about breastfeeding welcome. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Info: 518-274-2229.Cancer Support Group – 12-1pm. Every other Thurs. Release feelings of isolation, confusion, anxiety, identity crisis and day-to-day uncertainties among people wanting to improve their quality of life. Donations welcome. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info/dates: 518-450-1624.Kid’s Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. Develop strength, coor-dination, density for growing bones, flexibility for muscle resilience and maximum nutrient absorption. Learn relaxation techniques and more. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Pilates: Intermediate Mat Class – 5:30pm. Heal-ing With Movement Pilates, 2021 Western Ave, Albany. $20/class. Penny: 518 669-9677.Meditation and Mindfulness Practice Group – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Thurs. All welcomed. All levels of experience welcome. Free. Solid Ground Center for a Balanced Life, 148 Central Ave, Albany. Info: 518-339-9443.Applying the Seven Spiritual Laws of Success – 6:30-8:30pm. Thru May 29. Learn about apply-ing the principles introduced by Deepak Chopra’s book into your life. $80/preregistered. $90/door. Sponsored by New Thought New York at Pine Hol-

low Arboretum, Slingerlands. Preregister, Regina Wagner-Garhartt: 518-466-6846.

fridayKundalini Yoga – 9:30-11am. Taught by Yogi Bha-jan, Kim Rossi. Donation. Lincoln Bath House at the Saratoga Spa State Park, front door entrance; walk to the rear of the 1st Flr, 39 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-321-5660.Family Yoga – 5pm. Families connect through yoga with storytelling and silly, songs, breathing tech-niques, family partner poses, healthy educational tips, creative sequences and meditation. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Parents’ Night Out at Tiny Tots Tea Room – 5:30-9pm. 3rd Fri. Monthly event includes babysitting, open play, food, crafts and drinks. $35 first child; $25 siblings. 1536 Crescent Rd, Plaza 8, Clifton Park. Info: 518-348-1050.Sound Meditation Group – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Friday. Sound is a powerful form of healing. Group experi-

ences the benefits of sound meditation by practicing mantras. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Journeying with the Goddess – 7pm. 3rd Fri. With Rev Angela Pace-Lunz. Be guided through ancient religions, forgotten traditions and untold stories of the goddess from all over the world. History, ceremony and healing while connecting with the divine feminine. BYO journal and pen. $13. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Preregister: 518-744-5565.Sacred Drum Circle – 7:30pm. 1st Fri. Gather in a circle, light a candle for one’s intention and let the heart be guided into the heartbeat rhythm. Drumming is healing and a powerful sound meditation. No experience necessary. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. RSVP: 518-744-5565.

saturdayHolistic Healthy Living Group Program – 10-11:30am. For people ready to beat disease, become energized, lose weight, feel great and live well. Twice monthly for 3 months. Small class size. Info: 518-292-8767.Chakra Yoga – 10am. Raise energy, improve well-being and expand consciousness through balancing the chakras in the body. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Hooping Saturdays – 12pm. Fitness, fun and great music. Learn basic hooping skills, tricks how to use this simple tool/toy. Strengthen the body, melt away calories and relieve stress. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 12:30-1:30pm. 3rd Sat. Make permanent life changes and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other proven 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.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.

monday

wednesday

thursday


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

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

All-natural care providing pain relief and wellness care through acupuncture, massage therapy, laser therapy and acupressure. Experience in women’s health, insomnia, stress, migraines and fibromyalgia. See ad, page 27.

CAITLIN ST. GEORGEDR. ANNA BURKYAt Saratoga Botanicals80 Henry St, Saratoga Springs518-306-4108 • SaratogaBotanicals.com

Pain reduction, stress and tension relief, increased energy levels and improved mood, stronger digestion, relief from addictions, greater sense of overall health and

well-being, facial rejuvenation. See ad, page 30.

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 20.

ART THERAPY

ANN SIMPSON-MCDOWELL, MA, LCATHaven of Hope Counseling Associates, LLC1471 Rte 9, Ste 201, Crescent Commons, Clifton Park • 518-982-5376HavenOfHopeCounseling.com

Licensed Creative Art Therapist. 18 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 of all ages.

ASTROLOGY

AVALON ASTROLOGYM. Lisa Verschoor1-800-224-1020 - NationwideAvalonAstrology.net

C o n s c i o u s l y s o r t o u t relationships, health, career and all life altering situations through the natal chart. Radio talk-show host, teacher and astrologer for over 25 years.

BODYWORK

ELENA AJDELSZTAJN, LMTAt Key 2 Joy, [email protected]

NYS licensed massage therapist offering craniosacral therapy, a bodywork modality to help you process and resolve deeply held tension in the body. Professional, peaceful environment.

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 moralities. See ad, page 37.

CEREMONIES

UNITED HEARTS CEREMONIESRev. Lisajo Kay, MS, CCC-SLP, OUnIInterfaith Minister and Lic. Wedding Officiant518-212-REVK (7385)UnitedHeartsCeremonies.com

Co-creating and officiating "union ceremonies of the heart, to match you, your life, your path." Getting to know couples personally to create a unique ceremony. Large/small, traditional/non-traditional, interfaith/non-denominational, or

civil. LGBT friendly.

naturaldirectoryCHIROPRACTIC

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 15.

DR. JOSEPH S. GULYASNortheast Spine and WellnessOffices in Albany & Clifton Park518-371-4800 • DrGulyas.com

A 25-year veteran of holistic health. Graduate of Skidmore C o l l e g e a n d N e w Yo r k Chiropractic College. Received Clinician of the Year during internship at Greenvale Outpatient Facility. See ad, page 27.

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 20.

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.


ENERGY HEALING

THE ART OF REIKIJoyce Willson, RN BSN251 River St, Troy, NY518-271-7802 • TheArtOfReiki.com

Joyce brings to her Reiki practice her knowledge and experience in dealing with chronic and acute health issues as well as her passion for focusing on the health and wellness of the individual. See ad, page 12.

ENERGY FOR HEALTH & HEALING, LLCJack Treiber, [email protected]

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 27.

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.

FAMLY FUN

TINY TOTS TEA ROOMSari Medick, Owner1536 Crescent Rd, Clifton Park518-348-1050 • TinyTotsTeaRoom.com

Open play for newborn to age 12, six days a week. Full-service café with gluten-, dairy- and peanut-free menu options. See ad, page 21.

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.

FITNESS

REBECCA RIFENBERG, M.ED. Inspiring Wellness Solutions518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Certified instructor of group fitness, Ballettone, Kettlebell and group cyc l ing . L i censed Zumba instructor. Two master’s degrees in education and extensive experience in designing fitness and exercise programs. See ad, page 33.

JOY OF NIA MOVEMENTBeth FosterOwner & Licensed Nia Instructor3 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 28.

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 23.

DR. HEIDI RASMUSSENAt Saratoga Botanicals80 Henry St, Saratoga Springs518-306-4108 • SaratogaBotanicals.com

Approaching medicine with a mindful dedication, taking the time for in-depth examination and healing practices. See ad, page 30.

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.


HEALINGSARA BEACHInspiring Wellness Solutions518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Licensed esthetician, certified medical esthetician and Reiki II practitioner who is experienced in manual lymphatic drainage, shiatsu facial massage techniques and ear candling. See ad, page 33.

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. See ad, page 37.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

DR. FREDERICK DREHER410 Rowland St, Ballston Spa518-885-6185NoMercDoc.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 25.

HOLISTIC HEALTH COUNSELING

LISAMARIE TERSIGNI, CHHC, AADPInspiring Wellness Solutions518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Certifi ed Holistic Health Counselor, American Association of Drugless Practitioners certified, nutrition specialist, Intuit and Reiki Master/teacher; specializing in disease prevention, disease reversal and healing. See ad, page 33.

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.

EMPIRE ZERO, LLCFood Waste Pick-Up/Composting164 Montgomery St, Albany518-472-0222 • EmpireZeroWaste.com

Br ing ing the Compos t ing Movement to the Capital Region, Empire Zero offers food waste compost pickup service for households, restaurants and i n s t i t u t i o n s . C o n v e n i e n t ,

affordable and locally owned.

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 fi nishes for walls, fl oors, counter tops. Showroom features natural and organic mattresses, and bedding. See ad, page 23.

GRIEF/LOSS

BERNARD A. AMYOT, MS, MA, LMHCHaven of Hope Counseling Associates, LLC1471 Rte 9, Ste 201, Crescent Commons, Clifton Park • 518-982-5376HavenOfHopeCounseling.com

Bernard has been working more than 18 years in the fi eld of grief, loss and life transition counseling. He assists in the ripple effects of these changes and in formulating new, healthy beginnings for his clients. Areas of focus: job loss/

change, divorce/separation, disease diagnosis, pet loss, depression, PTSD and sudden death loss.

GROCERY

GREEN GROCER1505 Rte 9, Clifton Park518-374-1362TheGreenGrocer.com

Fresh, local produce, gluten-free foods, organic bulk fruits, nuts, grains, beans, herbs, fl ours, coffees, vitamins, body products and more. Locally owned and operated since

1995. See ad, page 51.

NISKAYUNA CO-OP MARKET2227 Nott St, Schenectady518-374-1362NiskayunaCo-Op.com

Offering many organic, l o c a l , g o u r m e t a n d specialty items. Personal service and convenience.

Lifetime membership is $5. See ad, page 3.

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

SHANNON K KEYESKey 2 Joy, Inc145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie518-598-6968 • Key2Joy.net

Lose weight, stop smoking and release stress with hypnosis. Certified Hypnotist Shannon Keyes can help you get results now. See ad, page 11.

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 10.

INTUITIVE COUNSELING

READINGS FROM THE LIGHTPaula Marie [email protected]

Offering intuitive readings to deepen inspiration and divine guidance on your spiritual journey. Serving the Capital District and beyond. See ad, page 37.


LIFE COACH

BARBRA [email protected] • BarbraGilman.com

A simple, powerful and playful method to change any area of your life; allowing you to be and have more. Complementary initial mini session.

ANNIE GREGSONServing the Capital District and Beyond518-532-0275AnnieGregson.net

Personalized, inspirat ional coaching to joyfully move you in the direction of your dreams. Start living the life you want to lead today; because life is more than a four-letter word.

LIFE PURPOSE

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. See ad, page 12.

YOUR CREATIVE PURPOSEChristine Kidder518-421-2091Christine@YourCreativePurpose.comYourCreativePurpose.com

Scientifi c hand analysis is a system that can give you profound insight about yourself from the markings in your hands. See ad, page 8.

MASSAGE

ALBANY MASSAGEAt Albany Total Wellness130 Everett Rd, [email protected]

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 20.

ALBANY THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE & SPORTS PERFORMANCE CENTERPaul Jensen, Jr, MS, LMT17 Computer Dr East, Albany 518-366-4429 • PerformAtYourBestNY.com

Therapeutic massage, bodywork, energy work, personal training and life coaching. 16 years of experience helping clients eliminate pain, optimize recovery and maximize performance. See ad, page 9.

BALANCE MASSAGE STUDIO316 Delaware Ave, Ste 25, Delmar518-475-9999BalanceMassageStudio.comEst. 2001

Offering a variety of massage and energy healing modalities in a p e a c e f u l a n d s a f e

environment. Wellness packages, Young Living Oils, Aromatherapy Products. See ad, page 24.

MICHAEL E. CATELLIER JR.Inspiring Wellness Solutions518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

NYS licensed massage therapist, offering customized massage and body work for medical, sports, fi tness and therapeutic needs. See ad, page 33.

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 11.

REGINA M. EPP, LMT, E-RYTInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

NYS licensed massage therapist, registered yoga teacher, personal trainer and spinning instructor with years of successful experience in healing arts and fi tness. See ad, page 33.

SANCTUARY MASSAGEStephanie Cavoli, LMT Albany & Schenectady Locations 518-952-1161 • SanctuaryMassages.com

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

THE CENTER FOR NATURAL WELLNESS SCHOOL OF MASSAGE THERAPYThe Red Pines Training Center3 Cerone Commercial Dr, Albany518-489-4026 • cnwsmt.com

Offering NYS recognized Massage Therapy Training Programs. Full/Part t ime schedules. NYS Approved Continuing Education Classes. Quality learning environment. Student Clinic open to the public. See ad, page 21.

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 25.

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.

SAGE-FEMME MIDWIFERYKelly McDermott, CNM, LM527 Western Ave, Albany518-813-9290 • Sage-FemmeMidwifery.com

At Sage-Femme Midwifery, we believe women should be empowered to create their own birth experiences as well as be educated to be actively involved in decision making and self-care. Kelly has been serving the

Capital District since 1987.


To advertise or

participate in our

June edition, call

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Coming Next Month

BE INSPIREDThis Summer

Physically

Emotionally

Spiritually

NATURAL MATERNITY/BABY

NATURALLY GROWN282B River St, Troy518-274-2229NaturalGrownBaby.com

A natural, eco-friendly baby and momma boutique. Our mission is to support the natural growth of your child through high quality products and educational classes.

THE BUNDLE STORE35 Milton Ave (Rte 50), Ballston Spa 518-557-8809 • [email protected]

Eco-friendly baby and maternity boutique. Babywearing, toys

and gifts, maternity/nursing items, handmade, socially responsible inventory. Classes and events for parents and parents-to-be. See ad, page 30.

NATUROPATH

BACK TO NATURE FAMILY WELLNESSDr. Amy Cole, ND77 Troy Rd, Ste E, East Greenbush 160 Benmont Ave, Ste 30, Bennington, VT 518-701-4587 • [email protected]

P r o v i d i n g naturopathic consultat ion i n t e g r a t i n g

science and nature. Plans include nutrition, herbs, homeopathy and hydrotherapy. Exploring all aspects of a person including mind, body and spirit.

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.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

DAVID CIUCEVICH, MMClarinet and Recorder Instructor347-879-9440 [email protected]

30+ years’ professional experience as orchestral and solo clarinetist and instructor. David's students routinely score high at NYSSMA and play first-chair for ESYO. Dynamic, supportive, fun, healthy teaching. Accepting students beginner to adult.

MICHAEL WARDGuitar Instructor518-369-6365GuitarDreamer131@yahoo.comMikeWardGuitar.com

Professional, full-time instructor of 60+ students per week. Specializing in teaching kids ages 6 and up, and teenagers in various styles. Private and group lessons. Teaching at Patrizio Center for the Arts (Latham) & Rocky’s Music

Studio (North Greenbush). See ad, page 9.

MYSTIC

IKIERA DIVINE HOLISTIC HEALING ARTS518-788-7062 • [email protected] • IkieraHealing.com

With 35 years of experience in India, the Mystic Satprem created a place for your journey to holistic well-being. Meditation-Crystal-Reiki courses, Divine Healing (Reiki) Initiations – Energy

healing (Acupuncture-Acupressure-Prenatal-Crystal-Shamanic), Personal Development courses, Hand-Card-Eye Readings and Eclipse Astrology are provided one-to-one or in small groups. Explore a balanced Body-Mind and Soul.

NATURAL BEAUTY

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.

Look deep into nature, and then you will

understand everything better.

~Albert Einstein


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.

DAVID SPINA, RPH, CHHCInspiring Wellness Solutions518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Holistic health and nutrition coach with extensive experience in the health care fi eld. Specializing in the needs of men in mid-life and weight concerns for men and women. See ad, page 33.

ORGANIC SPA

SARATOGA BOTANICALS ORGANIC SPA & STORE80 Henry St, Saratoga SpringsBook spa appointments online or by phone.518-306-4108 • SaratogaBotanicals.com

Saratoga Botanicals is a health and wellness spa p r o v i d i n g m a s s a g e , acupuncture, skin care, osteopathy and Reiki. We sell our own personally

branded organic health and beauty products, too. See ad, page 30.

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 30.

PILATES

HEALING WITH MOVEMENT PILATESPenny Shure2021 Western Ave, Albany518-669-9677 • HealingWithMovement.com

Intimate, neighborhood studio, specializing in individual attention and fracture prevention. Class sizes limited to 10 people. Private or duet sessions also available by appointment. Penny is a Pilates Method All iance Cert i f ied

Instructor, Meeks Method Osteoporosis Exercise Specialist and Foot Management Professional.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

HAVEN OF HOPE COUNSELING AS-SOCIATES, LLC1471 Rte 9, Ste 201, Crescent Commons, Clifton Park • 518-982-5376HavenOfHopeCounseling.com

Licensed mental health practitioners providing counseling for all types of losses including sudden death, suicide/homicide, divorce & separation. Assisting in life transitions, anxiety, depression & self-esteem

issues. Individual and group session available.

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BRYON KOSHGARIAN, PHDInspiring Wellness Solutions518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Psychotherapist and spiritual counselor specializing in stress and anxiety disorders, PTSD, bereavement, depression and spiritual concerns. See ad, page 33.

RECOVERY

YOGA OF 12 STEP RECOVERY (Y12SR)Kathy Garner Greco, Certified Instructor518-365-5660 • [email protected]

Y12SR is a group sharing circle and themed yoga class that integrates the wisdom of yoga and the practical tools of 12-step programs. Classes meeting at Shanti Yoga in Troy.

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER

LUMINOUS ENERGY MEDICINEShari Parslow BS, LMTShamanic Healing and Intuitive Massage518-879-9365 • [email protected] LuminousEnergyMedicine.net

Through deep connection, healing, and honoring – our lives can be uniquely expressed with unlimited grace. Shari is a shamanic practitioner, licensed massage therapist and mentor with over 20 years of energy medicine and integrative bodywork

experience. Offering private healing sessions, workshops, and ceremonies. See ad, page 41.

SPECIALTY TEAS

SHORT & STOUT TEA COMPANY1736A Western Ave, Albany518-456-TEAS (8327)[email protected]

Over 70 premium loose teas and accessories for purchase and enjoyment in our tea café. Free Wi-Fi and private room available for parties.

SPIRITUAL CENTER

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.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

NEW THOUGHT NEW YORKRev. Joanne McFadden, Minister 2 Imperial Ln, [email protected]

Inner peace. Joy. Abundance. This spiritual community offers the tools and support to change your l i f e . C la s se s , workshops , meditation, book discussion groups and spiritual cinema.

SPIRITUAL MENTORING

A PLACE OF ONE-NESSAvis A. Burnett, PhD639 Riverview Rd, Rexford518-371-0579 • AvisBurnett.com

Your Spiritual Mentor for individual transformational counseling, energetic healing sessions and workshops. Using principles of quantum mechanics to shift patterns of thinking, behaving and feeling at the cellular level.

SUSTAINABLE FINANCE

SUSTAINABLE WEALTH ADVISORSHarry Moran, CFP, AIF112 Spring St, Ste 101, Saratoga Springs518-450-1755HMoran@PRG-Group.netSustainableWealthAdvisors.com

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.] See ad, page 7.

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 51.

MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY ASSOCIATES2 Chelsea Place, Clifton Park518-983-6564MedThermography.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 22.

WELLNESS

INSPIRING WELLNESS SOLUTIONS518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Corporate wellness programs, individual counseling and group nutrition coaching to support clients to live a healthy and fit lifestyle. Specializing in disease prevention and management. See ad, page 33.

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 27.

SOLID GROUND CENTER FOR A BALANCED LIFE148 Central Ave, Albany518-339-9443 • SolidGroundNY.org

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction classes, monthly walk-in meditation sessions, seminars and individual instruction. Teachers trained at the University of Massachusetts

with 20 years of experience.


WORKSHOPS/RETREATS

BONA FIDE BUTTERFLIES518-532-0275BonafideButterflies.com

Empowering workshops and re juvena t ing re t r ea t s fo r women. Unveil authentic self, explore dreams and create the joyful l i fe meant to l ive. Wo r k s h o p s h e l d i n t h e

Adirondacks or at one’s location.

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. See ad, page 32.

YOGA

HEARTSPACE 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 27.

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

Our Sacred Space embodies a compassionate environment that will empower your body, mind and spirit. Kripalu, Hot Warrior Yoga (85 degrees), Vinyasa, The 5 Tibetan Rites of

Rejuvenation, Yoga Basics, Detox Flow and Pre-Natal.

ANDIE KEENANInspiring Wellness Solutions518-292-8767Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Certifi ed vinyasa yoga instructor specializing in low impact yoga. In-home classes possible. See ad, page 33.

KEY 2 JOY, INC.145 Vly Road, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie518-598-6968 • Key2Joy.net

Registered yoga instructors offering: Hatha, Svaroopa, Gentle & Restorative, Tantra, and Bhakti yoga and medita-

tions for all levels.

KUNDALINI YOGA ALBANYClasses in Albany & TroySat Kriya Kaur • 518-712-9642 SatkKiyaKaur.com

Kundalini Yoga expands your awareness, strengthens your body, increases your stamina and elevates your consciousness through movement, powerful pranayam and deep meditation. No experience necessary/drop

in classes. Visit website for locations and class times.

SOLUNA YOGA STUDIO2317 Balltown Rd, Niskayuna518-429-1455 • SolunaYoga.com

Offering private and group yoga lessons for all abilities and ages. Soluna focuses on education, individual attention and providing a safe environ-ment to enhance each student’s personal and physical growth

in their yoga experience. See ad, page 24.

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

A welcoming, safe, healing space to nourish one’s whole being. Gentle to challenging yoga classes. Also Chair and Restorative

Yoga, Thai Yoga Bodywork, Goddess events, meditation, workshops, retreats.

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

HEALING

HEALING THROUGH DEEP LISTENING – Reiki, intuitive energy healing, aromatherapy & more. Ballston Spa & Latham. Mindy: 518-779-2663. MindfulHandsEnergy.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.

MASSAGE CLINICS

MASSAGE CLINICS – Receive massage from currently enrolled students. $40/hour; $35/age 65 and older or 18 and under. $30/students. CNW School of Massage Therapy, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Times/appt: 518-489-4068.

SALES OPPORTUNITY

LOOKING FOR HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS & ENTREPRENEURS – To be pioneers and launch our brand of Neal’s Yard Remedies (NYR) in the US. An award-winning, family-owned, ethical company with an established 32-year-old brand and reputation for excellence worldwide. To learn more, Lisa: 518-755-2170.

VOLUNTEER

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY – Volunteers needed at The Habitat ReStore, 70 Fuller Rd, Albany. 518-275-6638.

UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES – At The Arts Center in Troy. Alana: 518-273-0552 x 221.

WEB DESIGN

ROGER LIPERA WEB DESIGN & CONSULT-ING – Guilderland. 518-248-4175. Lipera.com.

TRANQUIL SPIRIT WELLNESS CENTER1744 Rte 9, Castleton 518-755-8377

A community gathering space offering various therapies, wellness classes, retail area showcasing local artisans, art gallery, fun retreats and events, along with a Sunday farmers’ market.

Garden as though you will live forever.

~William Kent


Prevention is the cure.Offering the highest standards in radiation-free

Breast and full Body Medical Thermography.Detect changes at a cellular level years before a

mammogram. Clearer results. fewer tests. Time for preventive measures.

Patricia Luccardi ctt, LMt, cNMt

A critical difference between thermography and mammography is the ability to detect problems early

enough to use preventive measures.

Offices in Delmar and Chatham NY 518-929-7579 www.btiscan.com

Image Zone Min Delta T(Min) Max Delta T(Max) Avg Delta T(Avg)

Left 1 29.67 2.90 30.59 2.91 30.25 3.04Left 2 26.77 27.68 27.21Left 3 29.58 2.28 30.25 1.74 29.97 2.26

natural awakenings of the ny capital district - may 2014

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