Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District - November 2014

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November 2014 | NY Capital District Edition | AlbanyAwakenings.com

Midday Pick-Me-UpWell-Planned NapsBoost Brain Power

Cellulite ShrinkersFive Simple Exercises

to Smooth Thighs

Integrative MedicineAn Interview witn Dr. Andrew Weil

2 NY Capital District AlbanyAwakenings.com

3natural awakenings November 2014


Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District

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

AlbanyAwakenings.com

PublisherCarolyn Coogan

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letterfrompublisherAutumn’s splendid colors herald the arrival of the Thanksgiving season—a celebration of gratitude for blessings, joyous family gatherings and delicious food. Collectively, the year’s harvest prompts sweet remind-ers of all the good that continually surrounds and supports us. At any moment, a blessing may arrive in the form of a stranger’s kindness, an incredibly painted sky, uplifting birdsong, a found penny or the laughter of friends. We always have wonders to be thankful for. As the days become crisper and the nights cooler, I often find myself cozied up inside, warm with ap-preciation for my home and our community. I love

working on this magazine, aided by my home office cat, Rocky. With a cup of warm apple cider in hand, dressed in soft, fuzzy socks and a purring kitty snuggled on top of my feet, I can’t say who is more content. Did you know? Experts observe that an attitude of gratitude in and of itself can lead to personal growth, help restore balance and invite even more good things into our life. How encouraging it is that each positive choice and selfless contri-bution we make ripples out to benefit the whole. Everyone can appreciate writer Frank Jude Boccio’s inspiring reminder this month, “Grounded in Gratitude,” which speaks to the miracles poised to pour forth from individual practices of hav-ing a thankful attitude. What a brilliant sentiment to move us forward during this holiday season of gratitude and giving. This month, we are privileged to have New York Times bestselling author and pioneering integrative medicine advocate Dr. Andrew Weil gracing our pages. I am in awe of Weil’s insights and ability to articulate how the best medicine is not suppressing symptoms with drugs and surgery, but instead using complementary treatments that work hand-in-hand with the body’s natural defenses to combat the causes of illness and create health. His words are a perfect tie-in with this issue’s Alternative Goes Mainstream theme. While most Americans are still influenced primarily by conventional medicine, a professional consultation from an integrative practitioner can offer an education on therapies that support a whole-systems approach to wellness. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated daily by many of the practitioners that have become familiar faces in our magazine. This month, we introduce you to the wise counsel of Dr. Anita Burock Stotts, a functional physician with a practice named Healthy Endeavors Medicine, in Altamont. Dr. Stuart Erner, of Albany’s Capital Region Progressive Medicine & Longevity Practice, has also contributed further perspective on the value of integrative medicine and its continuing evolution. My hope is that this issue stimulates your desire to try nontraditional therapies and experience firsthand how a gentler, more effective way of treatment can help solve health challenges. How fortunate we are that alternative and complementary health care is making inroads in collective consciousness.

To happy, healthy and grateful living,

Carolyn Coogan, Publisher


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

6 newsbriefs

14 actionalert

1 5 healthbriefs

16 globalbriefs

18 localinsight

19 consciouseating

2 1 community spotlight

22 healingways

27 practitioner profile

30 healthykids

32 localfood

34 fitbody

35 calendar

39 classifieds

41 naturaldirectory

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16

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19 BEAUTY FOODS Kimberly Snyder Shows How to Eat for Radiant Skin, Eyes and Hair by Judith Fertig

22 MIDDAY PICK-ME-UP Well-Planned Naps Boost Brainpower by Lane Vail

24 ALTERNATIVE GOES MAINSTREAM Today’s Complementary Trends Support Natural Health Care

by Kathleen Barnes

28 DR. ANDREW WEIL on America’s Evolution into Integrative Medicine by Andrea Schensky Williams

30 BRING BACK THE MAGIC Give Kids the True Gifts of the Season by Meredith Montgomery

34 CELLULITE SHRINKERS Five Simple Exercises to Smooth Thighs by E.C. LaMeaux

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24

19


Dr. Amy Cole

newsbriefs

Usui Reiki Now Available in Troy

Bob Weissberg, owner of The Reiki Path, LLC., has been a Usui Reiki teaching master since 2004 and has practiced Reiki since

1999, originally incorporating it as part of his integrative medical practice in the Capital Region. Weissberg sates, “Reiki is a spiritual energy healing prac-tice, developed and taught in Japan in the early 1920s by Mikao Usui. It is a gentle, elegant, but powerful hands-on practice which promotes and supports healing and well-being wherever needed.” Weissberg offers a traditional, but up-to-date, “full strength” form

of training in levels I and II, and will also consider master training for the properly prepared and motivated student.

Sessions in traditional Reiki and Reiki training for the general public are available with Weissberg at The Harmony Building, 1813 5th Ave., in Troy. For more infor-mation, call 518-390-0299.

Naturopath Joins Albany Total Wellness-

Dr. Amy Cole, a naturopath

who provides pa-tient consultations integrating science and nature, has relocated Back to Nature Fam-ily Wellness, her Capital Region practice, from East Greenbush to Albany Total Wellness, located at 130 Everett Road. Cole works with nutrition, herbs, homeopathy, hydrotherapy and more, exploring all aspects of a patient’s mind, body and spirit. Albany Total Wellness is a well-known wellness collaborative that houses chiropractic, acupuncture, massage and wellness services under one roof. Cole’s pres-ence allows for easier collaboration between practitioners and provides new services to clients. Cole’s specialties include allergies, blood sugar imbalances and diabetes, children’s health, chronic illnesses and disease, digestive issues, hormonal condi-tions, cholesterol, blood pressure and mood disorders, skin issues, preconcep-tion wellness, prenatal and postnatal sup-port, weight loss and nutritional counsel-ing, endocrine disorders, chronic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome and more.

Cole’s second office at 160 Benmont Ave., Ste. 30, in Bennington, VT, re-mains open. For appointments at either office, call 518-701-4587. For more information, visit AmyColend.com. See also AlbanyTotalWellness.com. See ad, page 7.

Krishna Das Comes to the Capital Region

Krishna Das, known as yoga’s “rock star”, will present An Evening of Kirtan at 8 p.m., November 14, at the

cultural center in the Albany Hindu Temple. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Kirtan is a concert-like gathering with call-and-response chanting performed in India’s bhakti de-votional traditions. Yoga Mandali, a Saratoga-based yoga studio owned by Karen Score, is sponsoring the event. To experience kirtan is different from other concerts; the vibrational sounds created through the music and collective voices leave participants with a sense of peace and openness. The sacred, collective quality of this ex-perience is also unique in that it creates a renewing and transformative energy that opens the heart and allows us

to reconnect to the divine grace that resides within. It is not necessary to know the names or participate in the chanting to feel its meditative qualities.

Location: 450 Albany Shaker Rd., Loudonville. Admission is $35 at the door. Advance tickets are $30 at Yoga Mandali, 450 Broadway, above the Downtown Marketplace, in Saratoga Springs, or online at Tinyurl.com/KrishnaDasTickets and Tinyurl.com/AlbanyKrishnaDas. For more information, call 518-584-0807 or visit YogaMandali.com. Also visit KrishnaDas.com.

Krishna Das


Cheese Please at Honest Weight Food Co-Op

Honest Weight’s new Cheese Manager Jonathan Milks is up-ping the co-op’s local cheese game. He welcomes shoppers

to the department by saying, “Stop by for a bite! Everyone loves cheese and supporting local farms every day at Honest Weight.” Since his arrival, Milks has noticeably turned the focus of the department to locally produced cheeses such as gouda, moz-zarella, chevre and nokkelost made mostly of raw or whole milk from local, sustainably-raised cows, goats and sheep. Milks has been involved with the dairy industry in some way for almost his entire life. “My dad sold dairy equipment for a now-defunct company called Starline,” he notes. “I used to spend a lot of time going out with him to different farms.” Milks has a personal relationship with the producers of the local cheeses that he sells; he knows the families and their histories, and that connection is something very important to him. Honest Weight is a member-owned and operated consumer cooperative market that is committed to providing the community with affordable, high-quality natural foods and products for healthy living. Its mission is to promote more equi-table, participatory and ecologically sustainable ways of living.

Location: 100 Watervliet Ave., Albany. For more information, visit HonestWeight.coop. See ad, page 17.

Hypnosis Can Help with Holiday Survival

NGH Certified Hypnotist and instructor George Guarino will teach participants a powerful,

four-session hypnosis process on November 10, 13, 17 and 20, designed to keep holiday stress under control, limit compulsive buying and curb overeat-ing, quickly and easily. Guarina states, “Individuals that complete the program will find themselves able to say, ‘No,’ to temptation, and, ‘Yes,’ to enjoying the true spirit of the season, projecting a renewed, calm, comfort-able self with family and friends.” Each hour-long session is easy and fun, with benefits that can last a lifetime. “We all need to feel good, feel well and be happy,” adds Guarina.

Cost is $49 per session; register before Nov. 9 and pay $147 for all four sessions. Location: A Peaceful Place, 1733 Rte. 9, Clifton Park. For more information, call Guarino at 518-256-6549 or visit HypnosisWorksWell.com. See ad, page 17.

George Guarino


newsbriefsHoliday Festivities at Jean’s Greens

Jean’s Greens is hosting three special events to

celebrate the holidays. A wreath-making workshop will be conducted from 1 to 3:30 p.m., November 28, where participants can make either a green wreath or a pinecone wreath to decorate their space. The cost is $20 for materials and reservations are required. A Holiday Open House will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 6. Owner Holly Applegate says, “Take a deep breath and enjoy the sense of the season with us.” Shoppers can sample teas, enjoy refreshments and experi-ence the many gifts and herbal treasures that Jean’s Greens has to offer. A Winter Solstice Celebration will take place at 6 p.m., December 17, with a ceremony of drumming and reflection, guided by Zelda Hotaling. This is an opportunity to step away from the busyness and hustle-bustle of the season to mark the change of seasons—in the world and in our hearts. Admis-sion is free, but reservations are required.

Location: 1545 Columbia Turnpike, just off exit 10 from I-90, in Schodack. For more information, call 517-479-0471 or visit JeansGreens.com. See ad, page 35.

Key 2 Joy Hosts Music Talks

David Ciucevich, BM, MM, will pres-ent two musicology talks: Exploring

Beatles For Sale by the Beatles, from 7 to 9 p.m., November 17, and One of the Three Finest Things Ever Made: Mo-zart’s Don Giovanni, from 7 to 9 p.m., November 24, at Key 2 Joy, A Wellness Community Center. Ciucevich is a classical musician with more than 35 years of experience as an orchestral and solo clarinetist, operatic tenor and musicologist. Now in his fifth year as lec-turer of clarinet and music history at the College of St. Rose, Ciucevich performs regularly with the Saint Rose Camerata faculty ensemble. He has also performed locally with the Berkshire Opera, Opera Saratoga, Hubbard Hall Opera, and at Troy Music Hall and Proctors Theatre. Ciucevich maintains an active private music teaching studio, gives regular monthly musicology talks, teaches medi-tation and sees clients as a certified hypnotist and certified tantric educator at Key 2 Joy.

Location: 145 Vly Rd., Ste. 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. To register, call 518-598-6968 or visit Key2Joy.net. See ad, page 13.

David Ciucevich


Acupuncture Open House

To celebrate his seventh anniversary, Dr. Victor Tulchinsky, a family physician and medical acu-

puncturist, will hold a grand reopening and open house from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., November 8, at 255 Lark Street, in Albany. Participants will learn how Japanese and Chi-nese classical acupuncture can improve health by treating allergies, asthma, back pain, joint pain and mental health, including GI disturbances and smok-ing and other addiction cessation.

Off-street parking is available. RSVP by calling 518-482-1570. See ad, page 33.

Make Holidays Brighter with Essential Oils

A special Holiday Craft Party will be held from noon to 3 p.m., December 13, at Tranquil Sprit Wellness

Center, in Castleton. Participants will learn how to make holiday gifts for loved ones with pure essential oils and how to use essential oils in holiday cooking. There will be refreshments, sampling, raffles and more. The class will be led by Dawn DuBois, a licensed massage therapist and Young Living Essential Oil dis-tributor, who specializes in many different massages that use her essential oils. She has taken classes to help

her educate the public about essential oils and offers essential oil classes, home parties and talks. Dubois offers regular Pure Essential Oil classes on the first Thursday evening of every month at Tranquil Spirit. In the ongoing classes at the center, students experience the beauty of 100 percent pure essential oils, learning what they are, how they are made, where they come from and how to use them.

Holiday class cost is $20 and includes materials for four gifts to take home. Preregistration is requested. Location: 1744 Rte. 9, Castleton. For appointments and more information, call DuBois at 518-727-8626 or visit DawnDuBoisLMT.VibrantScents.com.

Dr. Victor Tulchinsky


newsbriefs

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Science Festival at miSci

Visitors will enjoy wall-to-wall sci-

ence with more than 45 presenters at the Science Festival of the Capital Region, to be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., November 7 and 8 and noon to 5 p.m., November 9 at the Museum of Innovation and Science (miSci), in Schenectady. A special kick-off event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m., November 6, and there will be a bonus Dudley Observatory Skywatch Lecture and Star Party from 7 to 9 p.m., November 7. The Science Festival of the Capital Region offers a chance for people to discover hands-on fun with science from the area all in one place. Daily stage shows in the festi-val tent include It’s Not Magic…It’s Science!, San Francisco’s Exploratorium; Bubble Trouble, Jeff Boyer; Wildlife Education Show with Bernie, and special planetarium shows, including some shows in Spanish on Sunday.

Festival events are included in miSci admission and free for miSci members. Location: 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Sche-nectady. For a full schedule of events, call 518-382-7890 or visit miSci.org. See ad, page 7.

Choose a November Spiritual Adventure

Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Ad-ventures workshops this month

include help to get people through the holidays in Attitude of Gratitude, on November 13, and Forgiveness is Freeing, on November 20. November 18 marks the begin-ning of The Essential Ernest Holmes class, which mixes meditation with an exploration and application of the basic truth principles of the Science of Mind and Spirit, as taught by founder Ernest Holmes. The teachers are Rev. Joanne McFadden, an ordained Science of Mind minister and licensed practitioner, and Regina Wagner-Garhartt, a licensed Science of Mind practi-tioner. As Buddhist teacher Jack Kornfield put forth, “Spiri-tual community is the sustenance of awakening.” Being in spiritual community with others and taking the time to foster one’s own spiritual growth are essential pieces in deepening spiritual awareness and living a fulfilled life.

Locations: workshops at Pine Hollow Arboretum, 16 Maple Ave., Slingerlands; Roots class at 2 Imperial Lane, Charlton. For details, call Rev. Joanne McFadden at 518-423-3569 or visit NewThoughtNewYork.org. See ad, page 32.


Free Paleo Lifestyle Nutrition Talk

CrossFit Soulshine will present Kathryn Kos, NTP, and owner of Primal Bliss Nutrition,

with a talk, What is the Paleo Lifestyle? at 7 p.m., November 12. Kos will discuss her personal journey to health, discuss the paleo lifestyle and dispel some common myths regarding ancestral health theory. Kos states, “Our ancestors hold the key to our vitality and health. Learn how to make nutritional

and lifestyle changes to live more like early our ancestors in a modern world.”

Admission is free. Location: CrossFit Soulshine, 165 High Rock Ave., Saratoga Springs. To register, call Kos at 518-260-9749 or visit PrimalBlissNutrition.com. See ad, page 9.

Movie Night at Vitality Health Center

Vitality Health Center continues its monthly movie night series with the Louise Hay film, You Can

Heal Your Life, from 6 to 8 p.m., November 19, fol-lowed by a discussion with nutritionists Anne DeRo-cher and Susan Brown, co-owners of the center. Par-ticipants will have the opportunity to ask questions and reflect upon the themes of Hay’s inspiring film. The series is part of the center’s commitment to community outreach and education about the ben-efits of making better food and lifestyle choices for healthy living. Patrons can be assured that everything at Vitality Health Center is “real food”. DeRocher says, “We have searched for more then 25 years for

companies that have not compromised their ingredients for profit.” Clinical nutri-tionists are on hand for personal consultation appointments, as well as to enhance the shopping experience.

Suggested donation is $10. Location: 3441 Amsterdam Rd. (Rte. 5), Scotia. To reserve a seat, call 518-372-4706. For more information, visit GetVitalHealth.com.


newsbriefsSalon de Consciousness at In Harmony Yoga

Transformational specialist Barbra Gil-man and certified kripalu yoga instructor

Kathleen Fisk are teaming up to offer Salon de Consciousness, The Creation of The New Pos-sibility of You, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at In Harmony Yoga, in Cohoes. In Harmony studio is a sacred and safe environment in which to learn the powerful energy tools of Access Consciousness. Gilman states, “We are all miraculous creators, and be-ing conscious of how we create and what we create is an art. This salon will assist you in mastering that art through yoga, discussion and yoga nidra. Once you learn the art of creating yourself moment by moment; then wait and see how the world miraculously changes around you!” Gilman is the author of The Unofficial Guide for Living Successfully on Planet Earth. She has more than 35 years of experience as a therapist and coach and is the founder of Success Strategies For Life. Fisk is a certified kripalu yoga instructor, energy worker, divine sleep yoga nidra guide and co-owner of In Harmony Yoga. A student of Edgar Cayce materials, she has also studied with Deepak Chopra, Donna Eden, Eckhart Tolle and numerous shamans.

Cost is $20 and preregistration is requested. Location: 137 Remsen St., Cohoes. For more information, visit InHarmonyYoga.org.


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The board of directors of the Niskayuna Co-Op, New York state’s oldest consumer-run coopera-tive, established in 1943, has selected Jennifer Felitte as their new general manager. She plans to support and strengthen the staff, sustain and grow the customer base and enhance community relations. Her roots in the local co-op community are deep and her relationships with local producers and vendors is strong She brings more than 12 years of leadership expe-rience in the co-op community, previously rising through the organization at Honest Weight Food Co-Op, in Albany, to operations manager.

For more information or a membership application, call 518-374-5463 or visit NiskayunaCoop.com. See ad, page 2.

Albany VegFest Demonstrates a Kinder Way of Living

The eighth annual Al-bany VegFest will take

place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., November 15, at the Polish Community Center, in Albany. Visitors will learn about the benefits of a vegan diet for personal health, the environment and the animals. There is something for everyone and all are welcome to at-tend that are curious about the lifestyle. Albany VegFest

provides a fun day of vegan products and food, educational information and connecting with the vegan community in a ballroom full of vendors selling vegan food and products, as well as animal rescues and educational organizations. There will be cooking demonstration and samples of vegan food, fitness demonstrations and opportunities to ask questions re-lated to diet and lifestyle. Speakers will be active throughout the day, talking about veganism. Children’s activities include arts and crafts, book reading and a puppet show by The Pup-pet People.

Admission is free, but a $5 donation is suggested. Location: 225 Washington Ave. Ext., Albany. For more information, visit AlbanyVegan.org and Meetup.com/albanyveg. See ad on back cover.

Jennifer Felitte


actionalertCurb Walmart Supercenter Construction in the Town of Ballston

Smart Growth Ballston (SGB), a nonpartisan grassroots organization

dedicated to the promotion of smart growth in Ballston and the surround-ing communities, wants to mobilize the community in protesting the construc-tion of a 137,000-square-foot Walmart Supercenter at the intersection of routes 50 and 67. They want the town to follow the Comprehensive Plan that was devel-oped to address these specific issues. An SMG spokesperson comments, “The Town Board should be a strong advocate for the values articulated in the Comprehensive Plan. The last Town Board in 2011 failed to follow the Compre-hensive Plan by allowing Walmart back into the community. It is up to the com-munity now to ensure the planning board addresses all community impacts and downsizes or blocks the project if the impacts cannot be mitigated. “It really is very easy for Walmart to comply. They could build a smaller store that fits our town and provides a grocery store. They could develop a store that doesn’t need to be a regional pull and further aggravate traffic. That is what we are fighting for, to protect the town and village through the Smart Growth philosophy.” SMG states that Walmart has been sending out mailers and conducting spe-cially designed “push polls” to change the results of previous surveys. SGB urges residents to keep pressure on the Town Board by calling and emailing them with their concerns. An earlier effort nearly a decade ago to build a store on Route 50 south of the village of Ballston Spa ran into strong opposition and the store wasn’t built.

To participate, email [email protected] or visit SmartGrowthBallston.org to sign an online petition.


healthbriefs

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TREADMILL DESKS BOOST JOB PERFORMANCEIn addition to improving fitness,

University of Minnesota research-ers found that treadmill walking at the desk also boosts productivity and morale. The study tested 40 adults that used treadmills for a year. Self-assessments, combined with supervi-sor assessments, found that treadmill walking while working increased performance levels. Work perfor-mance improved by an average of 11 percent based on supervisor assess-ments, and 7 percent based on the employee self-assessments. A study from Rutgers University tested 66 adults while they walked on treadmills set for low intensity versus when they were seated at desks, with two days separating the tests. Mea-surements of reading comprehension, attention span and response speed skills and performance show these were unimpeded by treadmill walk-ing when compared with sitting.

Looking at Beautiful Art Bumps Up Brain Activity

Researchers from Japan’s Oita University have found that aesthetic appreciation of paintings may be linked

to altering activities in specific areas of the brain. Mag-netic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 39 people were taken as they looked at slides of still life and landscape paintings by 19th-century French painters and slides of photographs that closely replicated the paintings. While the subjects considered both the paintings and the photographic analogs to be beautiful during the experiment—with no significant differences between them—the most beautiful paintings were rated signifi-

cantly higher than their corresponding photographic analogs in the pre-experimental phase. The researchers cite this as evidence of feeling greater pleasure from the paintings. The MRIs showed that during the experiment, portions of the brain’s frontal lobe related to emotions, memory, learning and decision making were activated. However, when the researchers compared the positive effects of aesthetic appre-ciation of the art paintings versus the photographs, they noted significantly more activity at the back of the subjects’ brains, specifically the bilateral cuneus, a part of the occipital lobe responsible for basic visual processing; and the left lingual gyrus, or ridge, associated with vision, encoding visual memory, logical ordering and dreaming. The findings suggested that these neural structures are associated with the aesthetic appreciation for paintings.

ALGAE-BASED COSMETICS MAY WARD OFF INFLAMMATION AND CANCERAlgae extracts added to natural cosmetics may help pre-

vent cancer. A recent review of research from Taiwan’s Kaohsiung Medical University found marine algae extracts help protect skin cells by reducing oxidative stress, which has been linked to both inflammation and cancer. The review covered the major algae types of red algae, brown algae (such as kelp), green algae and blue-green algae (such as spirulina). A host of compounds in these extracts were found to provide protection against free-radical damage. In one study, phloroglucinol, a phenol derivative from brown algae, inhibited inflammation among human tissue sarcoma cells.


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

Cash MobsCollective On-the-Spot Buying Revives Local BusinessesIn most areas of the country, small, locally owned retail businesses are the lifeblood of local economies, but the rising costs of doing business often means they cannot compete with the lower prices of big-box retail giants that negotiate in vol-ume. For several years, the growth and frequency of cash mobs have been breathing new life into strug-gling mom-and-pop businesses. Like a flash mob performing a dance or social protest, a cash mob gathers people together to have a tremen-dously positive effect on hometown businesses that may have served them and their families for decades. Most cash mobs agree to meet on a particular day, with each participant committing to spend a specified amount, typically $20 or more. The benefits for local busi-nesses far exceed a one-day influx of cash—new customers are found, previous customers become active ones again and a new apprecia-tion for businesses that fuel a local economy is realized. Participants can also have a little fun while further benefiting their communities as many cash mobs gather with old friends and new after a shopping frenzy at a local establishment for food and drinks.

Source: CashMob.com

Golden YearsSenior Roommate ServiceCombats LonelinessAARP, Inc., estimates that about 8,000 baby boomers turn 65 every day. With longer and healthier life expectancies, many are divorced or widowed and need roommates to have company and chat with; to share living costs and chores; and for emotional support. Women-only Roommates4Boomers.com founder Sarah Venable says, “I went online to find a service that helps women over 50 find

roommates, and found to my dismay that there were plenty of sites for finding roommates in their 20s and 30s, but nothing for boomer women.” For a $30 fee, the site uses a detailed algorithm to match women not only by location, but by interests, tastes, lifestyles, education, personal preferences and a host of other factors; much like a successful dating website.

Tomato LacquerNon-Toxic Can Lining in DevelopmentBecause fresh food spoils quickly, many packaging and preservation innovations have helped to extend transpor-tation hardiness and shelf life. Now, a new bioresin made from tomato plant byproducts could make it safer to eat ubiquitous canned goods. Led by the Stazione Sperimentale per l’Industria delle Conserve Alimentari (Experimental Station for the Food Preserving Industry), in Parma, Italy, the BIOCOPAC (biocopac.eu/en) consortium is developing a bio-based thermosetting lacquer. Most metal food packaging has a BPA-filled liner or chemical-based lacquer to prevent corrosion. While these keep the can intact, they have been linked to deleterious effects on the food inside.

Source: Inhabitat.com


Ka-ChingTime Is Money, So Bank ItTime banking is an updated, Web-savvy version of barter that allows users to accumulate the time they work and then “spend” it elsewhere. Unlike traditional bartering, it’s not limited to an individual transac-tion. The medium is so fluid that it can be exchanged many times as a form of currency. Most people do a variety of tasks that others may not want to do or are incapable of doing themselves, such as writing, preparing taxes, babysit-ting, housecleaning, plumbing or even dentistry. For example, an hour of gardening equals an hour of child care, dentistry, home repair or teach-ing someone to play chess. The idea is that people trade for what they need and do what they’re good at. Everyone gets what they need by exchanging their expertise. Time banking works for groups, too. Organizations, agencies, churches and businesses can all become mem-bers of TimeBanks USA, formed in 1995, and contribute time, energies, skills and resources.

Source: TimeBanks.org


localinsight

Integrative MedicineCurrent and Future Perspectives

by Dr. Stuart Erner

The key differences between conventional medicine and integrative medicine are in the way physicians ap-proach patient care. Integrative physi-cians typically spend more time with their patients, both during the initial consultation and follow-up visits. They put a strong emphasis on prevention and are at ease and knowledgeable about using nutraceuticals and herbal formulations as needed. They are apt to make a referral to a chiropractor, acupuncturist or massage therapist, and tend to work with their patients using a team approach to health care. Most integrative practitioners learn their craft through attending confer-ences offered by medical organizations devoted to the integrative model, with online fellowships and by reading ap-propriate journals. However, this will change in the years ahead as the number of medical schools offering appropriate coursework increases. More hospitals continue to add integrative therapies to their treatment plans, but mainstream medical practices still predominate. Some patients have devised their own supplement programs, but have not been monitored for potential harm-ful interactions with other supplements or drugs they’re taking. They may be taking several formulations contain-ing similar ingredients that could pose a potential problem if the dosage of a particular component is too high. These types of issues will fade away as more physicians learn how to use an integra-tive approach to their patients’ health. In the future, health care will be very broadly based, utilizing a wide range of safer treatments and practi-tioners of varied backgrounds, all to each patient’s benefit. This exciting, evolving approach will hopefully be-come the paradigm for state-of-the-art medical care for everyone.

Dr. Stuart Erner is a board-certified in-ternal medicine M.D. His office, Capi-tal Region Progressive Medicine and Longevity Practice, is located at 1873 Western Ave., Ste. 101, in Albany. For more information, call 518-452-4910 or visit DrErner.com. See ad, page 34.

Integrative medicine is poised to be the predominant method of medical practice in the future as more physi-

cians learn about this holistic, patient-centered approach to wellness and disease prevention using a pluralistic, multi-focal health care model. More than 20 years ago, a land-mark study by D. Eisenberg, et al, reported that 33 percent of Americans were using alternative therapies such as chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, relaxation techniques and nutritional supplements. Notably, these therapies were rarely recommended by physi-cians, so they were in effect, self-directed. In addition, most patients didn’t inform their physicians about using these alternative therapies.

Over the next two decades, we’ve seen more of a trend toward high-tech, expensive and often impersonal health care. Patients frequently are seeing mul-tiple specialists and receive test after test and prescription after prescription. They often wonder if any of their many doctors are even communicating with each other. While these changes in medicine have occurred, alternative medicine has continued to evolve, commonly known now as integrative medicine, by which the hope is that mainstream medi-cine can be transformed, resulting in improved outcomes, better safety and reduced costs to the healthcare system. Most importantly, patient satisfaction would increase dramatically.


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Wise food choices that optimize digestion and pro-mote natural, ongoing detoxification can help us attain red-carpet shape, professes nutritionist and

beauty expert Kimberly Snyder, New York Times bestselling author of The Beauty Detox Foods. She aims for optimum health as the basis for achieving a desirable outward glow. Snyder says she once struggled with several beauty issues. In seeking wellness on the way to becoming a nutri-tionist, she found that her daily energy level improved after she started making shifts in her diet. She then lost weight, her hair got healthier and her formerly troubled facial skin became clear and smooth. Blogging about her gradual transformation and lifestyle philosophies attracted media attention and a celebrity clien-tele by word of mouth. “I never looked for clients; they found me,” she says. Today, Snyder counts entertainers Fergie and her actor-husband Josh Duhamel, Kerry Washington, Chan-ning Tatum and Drew Barrymore among the many celebrities she has helped get into better camera-ready shape. Early into her personal transformation, Snyder realized that digestion holds the key. “I never linked my constipation issues with my acne,” she says. “It’s a tremendous amount of work to digest food. It’s no wonder that eating a fast-food sandwich

with gluten bread, animal protein and cheese with casein pro-duces a mid-afternoon slump. They are hard to digest together and all at once, taxing body energy,” she explains. “Then, when you feel the inevitable drop in energy, you might turn to caf-feine or sugary soda, but that only brings on another slump.”

Good AdviceSnyder, who is now a vegan, suggests simplifying meals and starting them with whole, raw, plant-based foods like salads. She advises her clients to start the day with lemon juice in warm water. If they don’t feel like breakfast, she advises, “Don’t force yourself. Listen to your body, it knows best.” When hunger hits, Snyder blends a Glowing Green Smoothie—what she calls, “the star of the whole Beauty Detox program,” in her book. A batch of three to four servings requires seven cups of chopped spinach; six cups of chopped romaine lettuce; one-and-a-half cups of chopped celery; one banana; an apple and a pear, both peeled, cored and chopped; two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and two cups of filtered water. She claims that drinking this smoothie can make a difference in just three days. She also lists 50 plant-based foods for specific body benefits because they are naturally alkaline-forming during digestion and assimilate more effectively than acid-forming animal protein, dairy, caffeine, alcohol and sugar. By improv-ing digestion, we end up feeling more energetic.

Timely EatingCarefully timed consumption is another key in Snyder’s beauty regimen. She recommends starting the day with a light smoothie, eating foods based on whole plants throughout the day, and then eating a raw salad and a vegetarian meal or some animal protein as an earlier dinner. Eating fruit by itself on an empty stomach helps it digest better than when com-bined with other foods that take longer to process. On hun-grier days, Snyder suggests turning to whole grains such as oats or quinoa, which are high in fiber and lower in fat, or fibrous chia seeds. When energy is low, she advocates supplementing with bee pollen or a protein smoothie. She stresses, “Progress, not perfection,” as her mantra, advising that it’s better to take small steps and keep moving forward rather than try to change everything all at once. She believes that experiencing higher energy and beauty benefits provides effective incen-tives to continue instead of trying to stick to a strict, numbers-based plan that doesn’t take into account energy or digestion.

Ongoing Cleansing“The metaphor I use for healthy digestion is a waterfall versus a stagnant pond,” says Snyder. “You want your system to be moving, dynamic.” To keep digestive “sludge” out of our body’s systems, Snyder recommends a proven detox approach of drinking liquid only between meals to help foods digest easier. She particularly recommends her own Probiotic & En-zyme Salad, made with four cups of shredded cabbage; one inch of fresh ginger, cut into strips; one teaspoon of caraway seeds; and cold, filtered water, all left to naturally ferment in a jar at room temperature for about five days—or refrigerated

Beauty FoodsKimberly Snyder Shows How to

Eat for Radiant Skin, Eyes and Hair

by Judith Fertig


raw sauerkraut from a health food store—to help flush out toxins. She also emphasizes supplementing with probiotics, such as her unique formula made from soil-based organisms. Infrared sauna treatments can also help leach heavy metals out of body fat and decrease cellulite. “These techniques have been around for a long time be-cause they work,” says Snyder. “As I always say, outer beauty is a reflection of inner health.”

Connect at KimberlySnyder.com.

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

For Beautiful SkinYouthfulRed bell peppersCoconut (fresh, milk, oil)AvocadosSpinach

RadiantWatercressFigsSweet potatoesCucumbersAcai

SoftPineappleAlmondsWalnutsFlaxseed

Unlined, wrinkle-freePearsCabbageTurmeric

Clear, blemish-freeFermented vegetables (e.g., sauerkraut)

ArugulaOnionsRaw apple- cider vinegarGarlicLemon

For Beautiful HairPumpkin seedsDulse (a type of seaweed)CarrotsRadishesNutritional yeast

For Beautiful EyesBright eyesPapayaBeetsBlueberriesApples

Eliminating dark circles and puffinessCeleryCollard greensAsparagusBananas

For a Beautiful BodyFluid body movementBroccoliBrussels sproutsSesame seedsRomaine lettuce

Cellulite-freeFresh cilantro and parsleyBuckwheat and oat groats (whole oats)

Toned bodyKaleHemp seedsQuinoaMilletChia seeds

For an Inner GlowBee pollenSunflower seedsSproutsSpirulina (dried blue-green algae) or chlorella (high chloro- phyll algae)

Top 50 Beauty Detox Foodsby Kimberly Snyder

These foods work to improve specific body areas while promoting whole-body wellness. Such plant-based foods also improve digestion and raise energy levels.


communityspotlight

Less than a year ago, the salon that em-ployed stylist and makeup artist Allison Tulio closed its doors, and the 28-year-

old found herself at a crossroads. What should she do next, look for another job or take a huge leap and open her own salon? Bolstered by the encouragement of friends and family, Tulio followed her dream and opened bloom. Salon & Makeup Bar in January. “I have a real passion for the envi-ronment and for makeup, and I knew that I could tie everything together,” she says. With the help of two other young stylists that she employs, Tulio offers haircuts, color, perms, styling and makeup services, as well as an exemplary commitment to the envi-ronment and healthy living. bloom. Salon & Makeup Bar partici-pates in the Green Circle Salons program (GreenCircleSalons.ca), which recycles hair, foils, leftover chemicals and color tubes. The salon has separate bins for each of the items for day-to-day collection, and once a month they ship the materials to a facility in Chica-go to be processed and repurposed. The hair is used to make absorbent mats for soaking up oil spills, foils are cleansed and recycled, and the leftover chemicals are turned into “clean energy,” according to Tulio. bloom. Salon & Makeup Bar also recycles their paper and plastic through Albany County’s waste management system. “Humans can make such an impact, positively or negatively,” says Tulio. “Recy-cling is so easy and it helps out so much. My goal when I opened the salon was to inspire people to think twice about where their waste is going, and also what they’re putting on their body as far as hair care and makeup products. I’m trying to inspire the people around me with information about what they can do, while giving them color and cuts and beautiful makeup.” Through careful research, Tulio has found three product lines to use and sell at the salon that produce wonderful results and meet her rigorous environmental and health standards. “I won’t sell anything that I don’t believe in,” she says. For makeup, Tulio uses 100% Pure products, which are made of fruit and vegetable dyes and contain no synthetic

chemicals, artificial fragrances, petrochemi-cals or chemical preservatives. She likes Eu-fora for hair color, which uses a 100 percent organic, pharmaceutical-grade aloe as its base. For hair care, Use Me offers a vegan, organic and sulphate- and paraben-free alternative. Its BPA-free plastic containers are refillable at the salon, so when clients run out of shampoo or conditioner, they can come in and replenish their supply. Tulio, a sought-after makeup artist for weddings and other special events, offers individual and group makeup lessons, as well as a monthly one-hour class with a live model in which she demonstrates products and tech-niques. Each month she tackles a new topic, such as creating an everyday look or smoky eyes. “It’s a really positive, fun, carefree night for people to have a lesson and try the makeup themselves,” she says. Growing up, Tulio’s mother motivated her to become the best version of herself. “My mom was a very put-together lady. She always looked flawless. Her makeup was al-ways done, so my mom inspired me to learn about and do my own makeup. In high school, I would study magazine pictures and try to recreate the looks on myself. It would take me hours. I started doing some on my friends, and it just became something that was so much fun I decided to make a career out of it and go to hair school after I finished high school. Miraculously, I ended up here with a business 10 years later.” Tulio graduated from the Orlo School of Hair Design and Cosmetology in 2005 and regularly takes makeup classes to learn new tricks and keep up with the latest trends. She loves what she does, saying, “What better job is there where you get to talk to people and make them feel good about themselves?”

bloom. Salon & Makeup Bar is located at 5 Maple Rd., in Voorheesville. For more information, call 518-655-0043, email [email protected] or visit BloomSalonAndMakeupBar.com. See ad, page 22.

Sandra Yeyati is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Makeovers for People and the Environmentby Sandra Yeyati

Allison Tulio


Sleep, along with nutrition and exercise, shapes the backbone of overall health, yet 40 percent of

Americans get an insufficient amount, according to a recent Gallup survey, and the potential health risks are con-siderable. “Sleep deprivation affects every organ system and disease state,” and is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obe-sity, cancer and mortality, says Michael Breus, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in Scottsdale, Arizona, and founder of TheSleepDoctor.com. “It’s best to get seven to eight hours of sleep in one big block at night-

healingways

time,” counsels Breus. Yet the circadian rhythm dictates two peaks of sleepiness every 24 hours—one in the middle of the night and another 12 hours later, says Dr. Lawrence Epstein, director of the sleep medicine program at Bos-ton’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Interacting with the circadian rhythm is the homeostatic rhythm, which causes greater sleepiness the longer we’re awake. Both circadian and homeostatic sleepiness elevate by mid-afternoon, resulting in the familiar 4 p.m. slump. Siesta cultures split sleep, notes Epstein, slightly reducing nighttime sleep, but devoting time midday to nap.

“Naps are a double-edged sword,” observes Epstein. While they help relieve short-term sleepiness, poorly planned naps can perpetuate an un-healthy cycle of daytime sleepiness and nighttime wakefulness. Stepping outside for 10 minutes of sunlight and fresh air can stamp out sleepiness, says Breus, which is much healthier than reaching for a caffeine jolt or sugary snack.

Be a Better NapperA study published in the Journal of Sleep Research suggests that merely falling asleep may initiate memory processing and cognitive consolidation, helping explain why German scientists found even six-minute naps to be reju-venating. If substantial daytime sleep is needed to overcome a deficit, strive for 90 to 110 minutes, the length of time needed to complete a full sleep cycle. Here are other practical tips. Reflect on the rationale. “Bore-dom, laziness or avoiding work are the wrong reasons to nap,” says Amanda Chan, managing editor for healthy living at The Huffington Post, which in-stituted two cozy nap rooms in its New York headquarters after founder Arianna Huffington collapsed from exhaustion several years ago. A quick pick-me-up

Midday Pick-Me-UpWell-Planned Naps Boost Brainpower

by Lane Vail

“Sleep is never a waste of time if it’s helpful.”

~ Dr. Michael Breus


to boost mental agility and mood is a reasonable excuse to snooze. Plan a prophylactic nap. Fore-stall late afternoon fatigue by napping between 1 and 3 p.m. Waiting until early evening to nap can interfere with nighttime sleep, advises Epstein. Embrace darkness, coolness and quietude. Melatonin, “the key that starts the engine of sleep,” is suppressed by even the slightest amount of light, so wear eyeshades, suggests Breus. Keep a blanket and earplugs handy. Lie down. If a bed or couch is unavailable, try napping on a yoga mat on the floor. A chair should be reclined to support the lower back and avoid straining the neck from “bobblehead” syndrome, says Breus. Power down. Setting an alarm for 10 to 25 minutes allows time for only the first two sleep stages: falling asleep and light sleep. Breus explains that sleeping longer than 25 minutes triggers deep sleep, from which waking results in sleep inertia, or grogginess, that impairs mood, decision-making and motor skills.

Napping at WorkWhile many progressive businesses such as Google, Apple and Zappos permit or even promote workplace nap-ping, most companies are still skeptical. “We live in a culture that minimizes the importance of sleep,” comments Epstein. “We prize productivity and

think it shows worker loyalty to put in excessive amounts of time.” Ironically, mounting research suggests that napping may boost the brainpower needed to function at peak performance. A recent study found that nightshift air-traffic controllers that napped for 19 minutes showed better vigilance and reaction times than non-nappers. Other documented benefits include better concentration, memory and creativity. Seek out a sleep sanctuary at work, such as an office with the door closed and blinds drawn, an unused confer-ence room with a couch, or a first-aid office cot, suggests Chan. Another option is to nap in the car, but Breus in-sists that nappers tell colleagues where they’re going as a precaution. Better yet, bond with a “nap buddy” willing to read nearby during snooze time. “You’re very vulnerable when you’re asleep,” he says. “Be safe.” If sleeping is not currently condoned in the workplace, consider approaching the human resources department with information on the positive effects of ap-propriate napping on work performance, says Epstein. Suggest implementing a sleep wellness program, which can offer education on sleep deprivation, tech-niques to improve sleep and individual screening for sleep disorders.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blog-ger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.

relax


Haven’t we all at some time shifted to more healthy foods, enjoyed a massage, consulted with a chiro-

practor or naturopath, popped a vitamin C supplement or attended a yoga, Tai chi, qigong or Pilates class? Many of us also meditate regularly and pray for sick friends and relatives. If we’ve engaged in any of these activities, we are among the nearly two-thirds of Americans that use complementary and alternative medi-cine (CAM) therapies each year. While these approaches to wellness have been practiced for millennia, it’s only been in the past decade or so that they have begun to move from the U.S. alternative fringe into the American mainstream. The widespread use of CAM therapies is due to a confluence of

three trends: a growing body of cred-ible scientific research that supports their effectiveness; popular demand for these natural, non-invasive and effective therapies; and growing recognition by conventional practitioners that healing is accomplished through holistic treatments that address body, mind and spirit.

Signs of the TimesToday, even the staid American Medical Association recommends a multivita-min supplement for virtually everyone; you can find a yoga class in almost any YMCA or community college; presti-gious medical schools have departments of complementary and alternative medi-cine; and some hospitals are encourag-ing their staff to become proficient in en-ergy medicine and healing techniques.

The U.S. government established the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) in 1992, under the auspices of the National Institutes of Health, to investigate and evaluate promising unconventional medical practices. In the 21st century, it’s been picked up more widely under the concept of integrative medicine, in which conventional medical and more natural therapies are used to comple-ment one another. This encouraging development also reflects current trends among major categories of therapies that take body, mind and spirit into account.

Acupuncture/Traditional Chinese MedicineUnderstanding Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) requires a dramatic mental shift away from symptom-related modalities of Western medicine. Here, one’s wellness and illness is based on managing the flow of energy, or chi (pronounced CHEE), through the body. TCM has been used in China and others parts of Asia for 5,000 years. Its core concept requires that the practitioner treat the underlying causes of disease, rather than just the symptoms. TCM has now become foundational in modern thinking as well, prompting an understanding that the entire organism—body, mind and spirit—must be ad-dressed in order for healing to take place. “Homotoxicology is the most exciting trend in TCM today,” says Jonathan Wald, an acupuncture physi-cian and academic dean of East West College of Natural Healing, in Sarasota, Florida. He explains: “It’s a blend of homeopathy, acupuncture and herbal medicine, with allopathic diagnostic techniques.” Homotoxicology (some-times called biopuncture) applies herb-al and homeopathic solution injections at specifically related energy meridian points to relieve various disease condi-tions or pain and rebalance the body. Another promising development is use of the Ryodaraku machine that measures electrical resistance to identify diseases in their beginning stages, afford-ing early treatment. “I think of Ryodaraku almost as a TCM form of a blood test,” says Wald. “It helps us see what’s going on and we can often correct it with a little electrical stimulation pen.”

ALTERNATIVE GOES MAINSTREAMToday’s Complementary Trends

Support Natural Health Careby Kathleen Barnes


Today, TCM and Western allopath-ic medicine are being considered in concert more often as practitioners find practical common ground in hospitals and clinical settings throughout the United States.

Energy TherapiesCurrent energy therapies comprise a broad range of hands-on healing modalities, ranging from Reiki, Heal-ing Touch and Emotional Freedom Techniques (tapping), to an increasing array of hybrids. The Energy Medicine Institute (EnergyMed.org), in Ashland, Oregon, notes that energy medicine can employ a variety of non-invasive methods intended to trigger the body’s natural healing powers, working to acti-vate energies that have become weak-ened, disturbed or unbalanced. According to the institute, flow, balance and harmony can be restored and maintained within an energy system by tapping, massaging, pinching, twisting or connecting specific energy points (known as acupoints) on the skin; tracing or swirling the hand over the skin along spe-cific energy pathways; exercises or postures designed for specific energetic effects; focused use of the mind to alter specific energies; and/or surrounding an area with healing energies (one person’s energies impact another’s). Nicolas Ortner, founder of The Tapping Solution, calls this Emotional Freedom Techniques-based energy modality, “…a combination of ancient Chinese acupressure and modern psychology.” By tapping on meridian points of the body while repeating cer-tain helpful affirmations about health or emotional situations, energetic blockages can be removed, allow-ing profound physical and emotional changes to take place. Ortner is excited about the grow-ing awareness of self-guided healing through energy modalities, including his technique. “We had 350,000 people at our online Tapping World Summit last year,” he says. “That says something about the need that we are fulfilling.”

HerbalismHerbalism is widely practiced world-wide to heal body and mind, and herbs and other plants are sometimes used in spiritual healing. Herbs are commonly prescribed by conventional physicians in Europe. In 1978, the German Commission E published a list of more than 300 herbs, noting research attesting to their safety and effectiveness, as well as possible side effects and drug interactions. The United States has lagged in its acceptance of herbal interventions. Still, Susun Weed, founder of the Wise Woman Center, in Woodstock, New York, and author of four herbal books, including Healing Wise, points out that drug companies have been quick to

isolate various herbal medicine components and market them as prescription drugs.

“In the ’60s, I discovered that the weeds in my garden were bet-ter medicinal plants than the ones I intentionally planted,” recalls Weed. “Back then, there was a general belief that these alternative systems weren’t ‘real’ medicine.” But it’s more a matter of the Western world catching up with the rest of the world, she notes. “The World Health Organization says that 90 percent of the health care given on this planet is given by women in their own homes, using local plants.” Weed reports that across the United States, attendance at herbal conferences has soared. Herbalism is a big idea whose time has come again, and is now being rewoven into family life. “I call it re-weaving the healing cloak of the ancients,” she says. “This is evolutionary medicine.”

HomeopathyHomeopathy, operating on the prin-ciple of “like treats like,” involves the use of highly diluted substances to trigger the body’s natural process of healing. According to The Society of Homeopaths, “A substance which causes symptoms when taken in large doses, can be used in small amounts to treat those same symptoms.” For example, drinking too much coffee can cause sleeplessness and agitation. Thus, when caffeine is made into a homeopathic medicine, it could be used to treat people with these symptoms. Dana Ullman, author of The Homeopathic Revolution and Everybody’s Guide to Homeopathic Medicines, notes that the trend in homeopathy in the United States has its debunkers. He attributes this to establishment fears that, “If homeopa-thy is true, then everything about mod-ern medicine and science is false.”

But, he adds, “The homeopathy deniers ignore or downplay the

substantial body of verifying evidence from basic science and clinical research—from

outcome studies, cost-effectiveness studies and epidemiological evidence.”

Meditation and Related TherapiesThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that 90 percent of all doctor office visits are related to stress. Meditation, breath work, guided imagery and some yoga disciplines are effective ways to slow down the mind, relieve stress and bring body , mind and spirit into balance. More than 1,000 pub-lished studies have linked various types of meditation as well as contemplative yoga to changes in metabolism, blood pressure, brain activation, stress relief and pain reduction. Angela Wilson, assistant director of the Institute for Extraordinary Living (IEL), affiliated with the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, in Lenox, Massa-chusetts, reports burgeoning interest in these therapies. “Doctors have become very interested in any practice that can help people slow down and calm down,” observes Wilson.


A 2007 NCCAM study found that 9.4 percent of U.S. adults, more than 20 million people, had practiced medita-tion in the previous year. Some of the latest IEL research provides scientific proof that Kripalu yoga (often called “meditation in motion”) can act as a buffer, “…helping people to face daily challenges without get-ting rocked off their feet or off their center,” says Wilson. She is also excited about a recent Massachusetts General Hospital study. It showed that in just eight weeks of practicing meditation, subjects experi-enced physiological changes in the part of the limbic system that relates to fear, resulting in less stress and anxiety.

NaturopathyNaturopathic medicine, a general system of natural medicine, includes nutrition, herbalism, homeopathy, acupuncture and energy medicine. Its goal is to holistically address the entire organism—body, mind and spirit. In general, naturopathic physicians are those that work to support our in-nate healing abilities. They universally encourage adoption of lifestyle changes

that promote optimal health. In states where naturopathic doctors (ND)

are licensed, practitioners are re-quired to graduate from a four-year

residential naturopathic medical school and pass a board examina-tion. In states that do not license them, people that successfully complete online courses can call themselves a naturopath. Make sure that any consult-ing naturopathic doctor has

graduated from a residential program approved by the

American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (Naturopathic.org). Carl Hangee- Bauer, current presi-

dent of the national association and a doctor of

naturopathy with San Francisco Natural Medicine, has long been a proponent of licensing. He observes, “Currently, 16 states license naturopaths, and the trend is toward more licensing states and inclusion in federal programs, as well as loan forgiveness.” He believes this will bring more qualified students to the profession. Economics is among the many incentives driving consumers to a greater awareness of the benefits of pursuing wellness, as they come to understand how major, long-term medical bills might be reduced by applying common sense, healthy lifestyle practices and other do-able steps toward preventing illness in the first place. “Our practice is growing every year. People are willing to pay for quality health care,” remarks Hangee-Bauer.

NutritionNutrition comprises the time-tested foundation of health and includes foods and vitamin and mineral supplements, as well as herbs and spices. Important-ly, core values about nutrition vary from culture to culture. In the United States, the Standard American Diet (SAD) has been off-track for long enough that it has resulted in a widespread health crisis. The problem is that, contrary to the counsel of nutrition experts, many of us have become heav-ily dependent upon high-fat, high-sugar, heavily processed foods. The typical American’s diet is severely lacking in recommended vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

“The health crisis isn’t limited to the United States,” states Joshua Rosen-thal, founder of the Institute for Integra-tive Nutrition, in New York City. “Fast food and processed foods have invaded other traditional cultures, as well. To-day’s chronic diseases that plague our own population now constitute a world health crisis.” Rosenthal is encouraged by the growing awareness of healthy eating, as taught by 19,000 graduates of his school, providing services in all 50 states and 82 countries. “We are at the beginning of a revolution,” he says. “By 2020, people will see that the quality of our food affects everything. Awareness and education are at the forefront of this revolution, and move-ments like ours are among the major catalysts for change.”

Looking ForwardOverall, today’s trends in CAM thera-pies are positive, hopeful and helpful. Conventional medicine seems to be be-coming more open to a broad range of therapies it once peremptorily relegated to the scientific dustbin. New research and long-term evidence proves that many of these non-invasive therapies are effective and can work hand-in-hand with conventional therapies. Individually and in combination, they can result in healings and cures once unimaginable to traditional practitioners.

Kathleen Barnes has written 18 books, most of them on natural health and healthy living, and owns the publishing company Take Charge Books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.


practitionerprofile

Doctors that are both science-based and

patient-centered are the hallmark of func-tional medicine. Dr. Anita Burock Stotts, of Healthy Endeavors Medicine, in Al-tamont, is one of few certified functional medicine practitio-ners in the Capital region who is also an allopathic (traditional) medical doctor. She started out as a primary care physician, then progressed to working with patients in hospitals, and after spending years as a hospital-ist working directly with patients and doing research and conferences, found herself feeling unusually run down and tired. “I loved my job, but ultimately had to take time off, figuring I was over-worked and needed to rest,” she recalls. After a few months went by with no sign of the fatigue improving, and her doctors did not provide all the answers she needed so, Stotts began researching her symptoms and discov-ered that many of them were aligned with celiac disease. When test results came back positive and she made her diet gluten-free, Stotts returned to work part-time, only to feel that her symp-toms were not improving as much as she had hoped. She then sought out Dr. Mark Hyman’s Ultra Wellness Center, in Lenox, Massachusetts, where she saw Ardis Fisch, M.D., and Nutritionist Kathie Swift, and was tested more ex-tensively. There, it was discovered she was lacking many of the vitamins and minerals needed to function properly. Stotts finally gained hope, and with a new regimen that includes sup-plements and more diet changes, she

began to find balance and started feeling better than she had in years. She shares, “I feel better at the age of 60 than I did in my 30s!” She still contin-ues her daily routine of supplements to keep feeling great, along with a proper diet and exercise, but Stotts is living proof of what one person can achieve with the proper medical guidance.

Stotts immediately knew that she wanted to change her career path so that she too, could help others like herself live a healthy life without pain and discomfort. She completed the coursework at the Institute for Function-al Medicine and became certified as a functional medicine practitioner with her own practice. “I spent many years with my symptoms building slowly, and ignored them while assuming it was just the way it is,” says Stotts. She wants others to know that there are ways to eliminate symptoms by addressing their causes to feel better than they have ever felt. “I know many people walk around with those same thoughts; that their symptoms are inescapable. I want them to know they have a choice to change their lives and feel healthy.” Functional medicine practitioners are guided by a few core principles codified by the Institute of Functional Medicine, including an understanding of the biochemical individuality of each human; awareness of the evidence that supports a patient-centered, rather than a disease-centered, approach to treat-ment; searching for a dynamic balance among the internal and external factors in a patient’s body, mind and spirit;

familiarity with the interconnections of internal physiological factors; identifi-cation of health as a positive vitality—not merely the absence of disease; and enhancing the health span, not just the life span, of each patient.

A Functional Medicine Pioneer at Healthy Endeavors

by Kim Steele

Dr. Anita Burock Stotts

The first visit is normally a lot longer than a

routine visit, because I want to know everything

about my patient and allow them plenty of time

to tell their story.

~ Dr. Anita Burock Stotts

New patients learn quickly that working with Stotts is a far more thor-ough process than they will experience in a general medical practice. A com-prehensive history is taken that covers medical, personal, nutritional and family history. Stotts emphasizes the impor-tance of knowing every aspect the ques-tionnaire covers and says, “The first visit is normally a lot longer than a routine visit, because I want to know everything about my patient and allow them plenty of time to tell their story.” She follows up by reiterating their story back to them. “After we begin this process together, we can work as a team to build a new story together. I want my patients to live with-out pain and to understand that simple lifestyle changes can very easily change their entire lives.” Stotts is a kind and compassion-ate soul who combines her knowledge as a medical doctor with the new knowledge she acquired as a functional medicine practitioner to help prescribe positive health outcomes for each of her patients.

Healthy Endeavors Medicine is located at 2592 Western Ave., Ste. 102, in Al-tamont. For more information, call 518-355-2060 or visit HealthyEndeavors Med.com. See ad, page 8.

Kim Steele is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine.


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N atural Awakenings had the op-portunity to pose progressive healthcare-related questions

to Dr. Andrew Weil, world-renowned author, founder and director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medi-cine and clinical professor of internal medicine at the University of Arizona, on the eve of the sixth biennial Sym-posium of Integrative Medicine Profes-sionals, that was held in October, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was the keynote speaker.

Dr. Andrew Weil on America’s Evolution

into Integrative Medicineby Andrea Schensky Williams

You frequently speak to the topic of integrative health and happiness. How does your book, Spontaneous Happiness, reflect that?For a long time, I’ve wanted to see an integrative movement start in psychol-ogy and psychiatry. It’s another field that has become dependent on drugs and is not functioning all that well to help people. There are so many more things that people need to know about maintaining emotional wellness, I think the wisdom of taking an integra-tive approach here is obvious.

Your presentation will take place soon after the recent passing of actor and comedian Robin Williams, which may bring about a more informed awareness of mental health. Why do you think there is such an increase in the incidence of depression? There are many reasons for it, includ-ing changes in diet and a breakdown in communities that has greatly increased social isolation and disconnection from nature. Another factor is the rise in infor-mation technology, all the new media. Plus, pharmaceutical companies have been highly successful in convincing people that ordinary states of sadness are matters of unbalanced brain chemistry that need to be treated with medication.


With diet being such a major component in affecting our emotional state of mind, what role does an anti-inflammatory diet play?There is a new body of research linking inflammation with depression that I find fascinating. The fact that the main-stream diet promotes inflammation is why I believe there may be a dietary correlation with the rise of depression in our population.

If someone suffers from depression, would you say the steps recommended in Spontaneous Happiness are a proactive approach or an addition to management through medication?I share information about how to wean off of medication. I’d say the book is primary; for people with mild-to-mod-erate depression, I would follow the information there first. For people with severe depression, it may be necessary to give antidepressant drugs, but I think that they should be used for a limited period, a maximum of one year. You should then be working to find other ways to manage the depression. There is specific information about what to do if you are on medication and how to wean off of it carefully and start these other methods.

Do you feel that the increase in diabetes in the U.S., particularly its onset in early childhood, is another major problem? Yes, it’s a big concern. I think this is mostly due to the way we’ve changed the food we eat; diet is a hugely in-fluencing factor, especially the greatly increased consumption of sugar, sweet-ened beverages and products made with flour and refined carbohydrates.

How can integrative medicine lower Americans’ healthcare costs?Integrative medicine can help reduce costs in two ways. First, by shifting the focus of health care onto health promo-tion and prevention, rather than disease management. Most of the diseases we

are trying to manage today are lifestyle related. This is where integrative medi-cine shines. Second, by bringing into the mainstream treatments that are not dependent on expensive technology, and I include pharmaceutical drugs in this category. I think we’re going to be forced to change our dysfunctional approach by economic necessity, because the cur-rent healthcare system is not sustain-able. Integrative medicine is in a perfect position to do that because of its em-phasis on lifestyle medicine. Integrative medicine is also teaching healthcare practitioners to use inexpensive, low-tech methods of managing common diseases. Both economic drivers will help reshape mainstream medicine.

What influence can the public have in supporting such a shift?Our dysfunctional healthcare system is generating rivers of money flowing into very few pockets. Those are the pock-ets of big pharmaceutical companies, medical devices manufacturers and big insurers; interests that control legisla-tors. So, I don’t think any real change is going to come from the government. The only real change will come from a grassroots movement to change the politics of all of this. Demand that insurers cover the treatments you want. Seek out integra-tive practitioners. Tell health practi-tioners you work with that integrative education is available and urge them to get up to speed in those areas. Raise your own awareness of the extent that the powerful lobbies now influence the system and why we need to see a sweeping political change.

You offer several programs through the University of Arizona such as a four-year degree, a two-year fellowship for medical doctors and pro-grams for nurse practitioners and physician assistants. What are the benefits of adding integrative medicine to one’s practice?I think it’s what patients want and it makes the practice of medicine much

more enjoyable. Many practitioners realize that they don’t have the knowl-edge their patients want; for instance, informed counsel about diet or uses of alternative medicine. This is a way they can gain knowledge they didn’t get in their conventional medical train-ing. We’ve graduated more than 1,000 physicians over 10 years, supporting a robust and growing community of like-minded practitioners that stay in touch and support each other. We’re eventually hoping that we can get integrative training into all residencies. Whether you go to a dermatologist, pediatrician, gastroen-terologist or psychiatrist, that doctor will have had basic training in nutri-tion, mind/body interactions, herbal medicine and all the rest that is now left out. We’ve also begun a program in lifestyle medicine that’s open to all kinds of practitioners, from registered dietitians to psychologists.

What reforms would you like to see in the current U.S. healthcare system? We need to change priorities for reimbursement that favor integrative medicine. At the moment, we happily pay for drugs and tests. We don’t pay for a doctor to sit with and counsel a person about diet or teach them breath-ing exercises. I would like to see a new kind of institution come into being that I call a healing center, where people could go for lifestyle education and management of common illnesses—somewhere between a spa and a clinic. Stays in these would be reimbursed by insurance, similar to how it’s done in Europe. Beyond that, I think it’s un-conscionable that the richest nation on Earth can’t provide basic coverage to all of its citizens.

Dr. Andrew Weil will be spearheading the 12th annual Nutrition & Health Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, on May 4 through 6, 2015. Learn more about integrative medicine at IntegrativeMedicine.Arizona.edu and DrWeil.com.

Andrea Schensky Williams is the publisher of Natural Awakenings of Northern New Mexico.


According to a poll by the Center for a New American Dream in 2005, three out of four Americans wish the holidays were less materialistic. Traditionally rooted in

family, faith and joy, the season can be marred by commercial-ization. Instead, inspire the whole family to take a “buy less, get more” approach so that everyone can experience the essence of what many consider the most wonderful time of the year.

Raise AwarenessThe Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood (CCFC) reports that U.S. companies now spend about $17 billion an-nually marketing to children, up from $100 million in 1983. Many kids are formulating wish lists year-round, due to the continual bombardment of alluring commercials. CCFC As-sociate Director Josh Golin attests that the holiday season is a perfect time to start discussing the power of advertising and the techniques used. Teens are especially sensitive to the no-tion of being manipulated by adults. For children under 8 that can’t yet comprehend the persuasive intent of commercials, limit screen time with all devices. Golin advises that the scope of commercialism has changed radically. “It’s no longer just television commercials, but also Internet, cell phones and video games. Plus, chil-dren’s media characters are placed on every type of product imaginable. Think about limiting commercialism in all forms; you can’t just turn off the TV.”

Manage ExpectationsStart before the holidays. “Talk to kids about how you’ll celebrate the holidays in your own home, noting that it might be unique. Focus on aspects that aren’t gift-related,” suggests Golin. Plan food-focused traditions such as baking together and special group meals. Generate excitement around

BRING BACK THE MAGIC

Give Kids the True Gifts of the Season

by Meredith Montgomery

healthykids spiritual aspects of the season or visits from out-of-town family members. When shopping together for gifts, make a plan and stick with it, letting everyone know its purpose beforehand. Resist impulsive purchases trumpeted by store promotions.

Connect with KidsNew American Dream’s Simplify the Holidays guide at Tinyurl.com/SimplifyTheHolidays encourages families to reconnect by participating in meaningful activities such as neighborhood caroling, building a gingerbread house, preparing gift boxes for the homeless, taking a nature hike or making a feeder for backyard birds. Explore volunteer projects as a family, letting the chil-dren’s interests lead. If kids are attracted to water, pick up litter along a shoreline. In the spirit of the season, donate gently used clothing, books and toys to a shelter. For animal lovers, contribute time or materials to a local animal rescue or rehabilitation center. Attend community events such as musical perfor-mances, plays and art exhibits. Seek out inexpensive or free local activities. Kids are often enthralled by a simple tour of neighborhood Christmas lights.

Gift BuyingMake gift purchases consistent with the family’s values. Golin suggests resisting the temptation to buy the season’s “hot” products. “Resist buying what’s advertised the most. We have power as parents and as part of a larger culture to believe there’s no such thing as a must-have toy or holiday gift.” Instead, search for timeless, high-quality items that are eco-friendly and fair trade. Try wooden toys for babies and toddlers or a bamboo skateboard for teens. Ads can make a toy look appealing because it’s brand-new and ready-to-use, but homemade gifts can be a more meaningful alternative. New American Dream suggests constructing a rope swing or wooden sandbox for little ones. Given a comfortable timeframe, children can gift grownups homemade green cleaning products or re-potted herb and houseplant clippings. All ages can give away the last book they read and kick off a year-round book exchange. Forego more tangible items by gifting experiences like a zoo mem-bership, bowling gift cards or movie tickets, or make a chari-table donation to a cause that the recipient supports. Let friends and family make shopping easier by inviting them to create such a gift registry at SoKindRegistry.com.

UnplugAlways plan for quiet time. It reduces exposure to holiday marketing, creates opportunities for family bonding and fosters independent children. Golin observes, “We can all be better about trusting our kids to entertain themselves. When reducing screen time, we don’t necessarily need to suggest activities to kids. Give them the space to be bored for a min-ute and be amazed at what they come up with on their own.”

Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Mobile/Baldwin, AL (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).



localfood

Stefano Zumbo remembers when he decided to go vegetarian. “It was about 35 years ago,” he recalls.

“I overdid it as a youngster. After high school, I started to realize that I didn’t look my age and needed to do something.” Going vegetarian turned into a lifelong passion for Zumbo, expressed for the last 18 years in the form of a largely vegetarian Italian restaurant called Antipasto’s Bistro and Wine Bar, in Clifton Park. Antipasto’s consistently wins recogni-tion in the Capital Region as the area’s best vegetarian restaurant. This year, Metroland recognized Antipasto’s as a “delicious Italian vegetarian-friendly menu with all the Italian favorites with a vegetarian twist and arguably the best pizza in Saratoga County.” In its citation, Capital Region Living said, “Eating at Antipasto’s is a healthy and delicious adventure.” Among Antipasto’s many dishes are a veggie chicken Parm Florentine; veggie chicken topped with spinach, marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, served with a side of pasta; and others named after famous men, like the Thomas Jefferson, a stack of eggplant and roasted red pep-pers topped with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce, with onions, squash, broccoli, carrots, chickpeas, artichoke hearts and olives, or the Albert Einstein, baked eggplant Par-mesan topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, with a side of pasta. But even with the carefully chosen vegetarian menu, Zumbo says meat eaters vastly outnumber vegetarians among his regular patrons. “If I took a show of hands on a packed Friday night, I might be the only vegetarian in the restaurant,” he notes. “I’m guessing that 95 percent of my clientele is not vegetarian.” For those clients, Antipasto’s offers regular meat-balls and pepperoni.

So what keeps hordes of carnivores coming to a vegetarian restaurant? Zumbo said that his finely tuned wine selection and comfort food is what keeps his 34-table bistro filled. “I want my restaurant to be a haven for fine wines and vegetarian cuisine done in the old Italian style,” Zumbo says. “The mainstream might think that vegetar-ian is tie-dye and bean sprouts, but I’ve always thought that vegetarian should be more comfort food.” Zumbo grew up in the restaurant and spirits business. His mother is a Panetta, the owners of an regional landmark Italian

restaurant that flourished from 1924 through 1967. His father owned a liquor store where Zumbo worked as a youngster. In the 1980s, Zumbo worked at racetracks as a groomer, but as he says, “I always had my foot in the door in the wine and restaurant industry.” Today, Zumbo travels to New York City 12 to 15 times a year for wine tastings and says that his customers are eager to pay $12.50 a glass so they can sample a $50 bottle of wine. Typically, he says, his regulars don’t ask for a wine menu, but instead ask him, “What’s drinking good?” “What we do here is try to target the discriminating diner, not the person who just goes out to stop the belly from grumbling,” says Zumbo. “We’re targeting people who understand that dining is not just getting the job done. It is an experience.”

Antipasto’s Bistro and Wine Bar is located at 1028 Rte. 146, in Clifton Park. For more information, call 518-383-1209 or visit Antipastos.com.

Phil Gutis is a writer, editor and contributor to Natural Awak-enings magazine. Connect at [email protected].

Antipasto’s Bistro and Wine BarA Vegetarian-Friendly Delight

by Phil Gutis



fitbody

Unsightly cellulite, which is com-prised of fat deposits just be-neath the skin, appears as lumps

or dimples, usually near the buttocks and upper thighs, and is most common in women. Building muscle can make cellulite harder to notice and help burn more calories. While cellulite deposits might not be eliminated, burning body fat will make them shrink and be less visible. Here are five top exercises to blast stubborn cellulite.

Cardiovascular ExerciseAs long as we’re expending more calories than we’re taking in, we will begin burning the body’s fat deposits. As cardio workouts burn calories, they can reduce overall body fat, which also makes cellulite harder to see. Any exercise such as walking, running, hiking or cycling can help in the overall battle to burn calories and blast cellulite.

Stair ClimbingStair climbing burns at least 10 calo-ries a minute, according to the non-profit National Wellness Institute, that promotes healthy lifestyles worldwide. Plus, stair climbing has the added ben-efit of working all the muscle areas that tend to get hit with the greatest amounts of cellulite.

Leg LiftsJanet Wallace, Ph.D., professor of ki-nesiology at Indiana University-Bloom-ington, advises that leg lifts are the best exercise for toning the outer thighs.

Lie on the floor on your side, plac-ing one elbow on the ground and prop your head up with that same hand. Place the other hand on the floor be-side your waist. With legs straight and toes pointed, lift the top leg up as far as it will go, then slowly lower it back down. Do 10 to 15 reps, and then turn over and work the other leg.

Back KicksAn MSNBC health segment recommend-ed this fat-busting move to target all the areas that are most susceptible to cellu-lite. While kneeling on hands and knees, lift a leg up behind you until it’s pointed upward at a 45-degree angle. Slowly bring the leg back down and repeat the movement with the other leg. Start with 15 reps and work up from there.

SquatsStand comfortably with feet about a foot apart. Slowly bend the knees to lower your body until both thighs are parallel to the floor. Then gradually stand back up, squeezing gluteal and back-of-the-thigh muscles as you rise. If performed consistently, this exercise will increase muscle strength in the thighs and buttocks, which also helps burn fat, according to the Mayo Clinic. Less fat equals less noticeable cellulite. As with the other exercises, start with 15 repetitions per session and work up to more.

E.C. LaMeaux posts a body of work at Gaiam Life (Life.Gaiam.com), from which this was adapted.

Cellulite ShrinkersFive Simple Exercises to Smooth Thighs

by E.C. LaMeaux


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

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1Holiday Survival: Be Well & Stay Well through the Holiday Season – 9am. Discussing pre-holiday preparation, shopping tips, healthy nutritious choices for dinner plates and traveling tips. Learn tools to de-stress before the holidays and how to stay stress-free during this time of year. $45. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Preregistra-tion requested: 518-435-1280.Chakra Animals – 1-3pm. With Brenda Jenks. Each chakra has different qualities, represented by different animals that relate to messages from the animal kingdom. Participants discover their animal combo. $45. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Trash to Treasure – 1-3pm. Featuring an art proj-ect using manufacturing mistakes and materials destined for the landfill. Free. NYS Museum, 222 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-474-5877.Community Kirtan – 7-9pm. Ecstatic chanting from the Indian Bhakti (devotional) tradition. Ev-eryone sings together from their hearts regardless of ability. No experience or special skill needed. Sing, dance and lie down and relax. Kids welcome with supervision. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2Vendor/Craft Fair – 11am-4pm. Benefiting The Relay for Life American Cancer Society. Village of Colonie Rec Center, 3 Thunder Rd, Albany. Info: Joe, 518-365-7409.MELT Workshop – 12-1pm. Nov 2, 9 & 23. Using specialized soft body rollers and small MELT Hand and Foot Treatment Balls to reduce inflammation and pain. Eliminate stuck stress before it accumu-lates causing chronic aches and pains. $45/all or $20 walk-in. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Capital Region Wind Ensemble Concert –3pm.

Capital Region Wind Ensemble performs. $8 adults, $6 students. SCCC Taylor Auditorium, 78 Washing-ton Ave, Schenectady. Info: 518-381-1200.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3Introduction to Energy for Health & Healing: Practical Tips for Taking Charge of Your Health – 6:30-9pm. Learn about energy system and a power-ful acupressure tapping technique to help one feel better. See how energy sensitivity can be used to assess health and check the compatibility of foods. Cost/register, with Saratoga Springs Continuing Education: 518-583-4782.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4Lama Lhanang Rinpoche – 7-9pm. Lama returns to Saratoga to hold a Chod which is a spiritual practice found primarily in Tibetan Buddhism also known as “Cutting Through the Ego.” By donation. Namaste Yoga, 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-222-7470.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5Stop 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.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6Pure Essentials – 6-7pm. Learn the benefits and how to integrate pure essential oils into everyday life. Raffles, gifts and fun. Free. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rt. 9, Castleton. Details: 518-727-8626.Fall Farm to Table – 6-8:30pm. With Jillian Naveh, Chef of 9 Miles East Farm in Schuylerville. Learn ways to use up the apple bushels sitting on the kitchen floor. Menu includes: apple tartine, apple cider fritters; and apple scones made in a healthier way. $45 plus $15 materials fee. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Preregistra-tion required: 518-273-0552.Digestion and Detox Wellness Workshop – 7-8pm. With Health Coach Kelly Pickering. Learn some of the essentials for proper digestion and tools for safe detoxification. Orenda Yoga, 461 State Rte 146, Guilderland Center. Register online. Info: 518-861-5714.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7 – SUNDAY NOVEMBER 9

Science Festival of the Capital Region – Nov 7-9. 9am-5pm/Fri & Sat, 12-5pm/Sun. Discover wall-to-wall science with more than 45 present-ers. Explore nanotechnology, robotics, natural sciences, chemistry, astronomy and more. Com-plete schedule: miSci.org.

markyourcalendar

Get Your Glow On – 6-8:30pm. Learn about foods that nourish the skin, experiment with facial massage techniques and create customized skincare blends to use at home. $30. Register with a friend and save $5 each. Delmar Massage. Registration required: 518-588-8597.Sound Meditation Group – 6:30-8pm. Sound is a powerful form of healing. Group will experience the benefits of sound meditation by practicing mantras. $15 advance. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Sacred Drumming – 7:30pm. Light a candle, be free, dance, drum, sing, just be. By donation. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.


TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11Femme Vitale Conditioning Workshop: Day 2 – 2-4pm. Join performer/choreographer Spinal Flex-ibility & Abdominal Fitness Expert Julia Kulacova for this two-day workshop (Day 1 on Nov 9). Day 2 focuses on dance. Build body awareness creating natural beauty from the inside out. $55. $95 both days. Namaste Yoga, 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga Spgs. Register online. Info: 518-222-7470.Candle Making – 6-8pm. Customize a personal essential oil blend for different effects. Work with soy and beeswax. Therapeutic qualities and origins of essential oils will be covered. $35 includes ma-terials. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP required: 518-306-4108.Grounded – 7pm. The Capital Region tour is being produced by Women Against War in conjunction with The Theater Institute at Sage College. Directed by Russell Sage College Teaching Artist Leigh Strimbeck and features Katelyn Burrello. Free. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Info: 518-273-0552.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12Cloth Diaper Info Night – 6-8pm. Learn washing routine, about choosing diapers, fabric differences and more. Bring questions and chat one-on-one with Vikki, owner of Sonrise Diaper Service 2009-2014. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Register: 518-274-2229.Tasty Thanksgiving Sides and Appetizers – 6-8:30pm. With Chef Larry Schepici. Learn to make some delicious gourmet updates for Thanksgiving dinner. $69. Different Drummer’s Kitchen, Stuyves-ant Plaza, Rte 20/Western Ave, Albany. Preregistra-tion required: 518-459-7990.Get Out of Your Way…So You Can Change the World! – 6:30-7:30pm. Often a daydreamer, asking for more, wishing to be more and looking for that “something” we know is possible? What if that “something” is our self? What if being our own person will change everything in life and will offer far greater possibilities than ever imagined? $20. Tranquil Spirit Wellness 1744 Rte 9, Castelton. Registration required: 929-777–0873.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13Breastfeeding Support Group – 6:30-8pm. Monthly drop-in gathering at the office of Jessica Davis MD, with Lori Kohler RN, CLC. Tea and gluten/dairy free snacks. Free. 781 Hudson Ave, Stillwater. Info: 518-664-6116.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14Freedom in Relationships Retreat – Nov 14-16.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8Yoga/Live Music/Crystal Singing Bowls & Pyra-mids – 9:15-10:30am. With All Energy. Unique hatha yoga class infused with Native American flute, guitar and crystal singing bowls. Leave feeling rejuvenated and at peace. $15 drop-in. $10 students. Open to men and women. The Woman’s Club of Albany, 725 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-810-7646.Athletic Nia – 10-11am. Energize and condition the body, taking physical fitness to a higher level. Infus-ing martial arts, dance and healing arts. $18. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. RSVP: 518-452-3679.Transformative Circle – 10am-12pm. For people who are interested in deepening their connection to their deepest self. Shared lunch following. By do-nation. Still Point Interfaith Retreat Center, 20 Still Point Rd, Mechanicville. Register: 518-587-4967.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8Grand Reopening Open House – 11am-3pm. Celebrate the seventh year anniversary of Dr. Tulchinsky’s private practice. Meet the doctor and learn about his approach and application of Japanese/Chinese classical acupuncture. 255 Lark St, Albany. RSVP requested: 518-482-1570.

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The Perfect Chaturanga – 2-4pm. Promoting her new book, Jennilee Toner will bring her enthusi-asm and energy to Heartspace Troy this fall. Learn alignment and strengthening techniques to safely move and flow in a dynamic vinyasa sequence. $25 advance. $30 door. Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts, 10 2nd St, Troy. Register: 518-512-3390.Spirit of Didgeridoo – 7:30pm. With Phil Shiva Jones. A journey to deeply experience the spirit of our own breath. Learn how to play, circular breath-ing, the healing benefits, get inspired and receive meditation techniques using this sacred tool. Didg-eridoos provided for workshop and available for purchase. $15 advance. $20 door. The Yoga Lily, 1

Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. RSVP requested: 518-744-5565.Shamanic Sound Journey Expansive – 7:30-10pm. With Rich Goodhart. An extended version of this past summer’s event. Go deeper within the realms of self for a healing. $42/50 advanced pay-ment and registration required. Held in Duanesburg. Details given upon registration. Crossroads in Schenectady: 518-357-8366.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9Femme Vitale Conditioning Workshop: Day 1 – 2-4pm. Join performer/choreographer Spinal Flex-ibility & Abdominal Fitness Expert Julia Kulacova for this two-day workshop (day 2 on Nov 11). Day 1 includes postural, joint opening and toning exercises specific for female problem areas. $55. $95 both days. Namaste Yoga, 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga Spgs. Register online. Info: 518-222-7470.Streams of Buddhism: Vipassana, Zen and Tibetan Wellness – 3-5:30pm. Join Pierre Zimmerman, MS and Matthew Ostrow, PhD as they explain the different schools of Buddhism introduced in the USA since early 1900. No experience necessary; a short meditation will be provided. $25. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Preregistration required: 518-450-1624.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10Surviving the Holidays with Hypnosis – Nov 10-20. 6:30-8:30pm. A four-session hypnosis process designed to change the way one moves through the holidays. Say ‘no’ to temptation and say ‘yes’ to feeling a renewed calm, comfortable satisfaction en-joying the true spirit of the season. Complete process before Thanksgiving. $49/session. (save 25 percent before Nov 9). Register/details: 518-256-6549.Introduction to Energy for Health & Healing: Practical Tips for Taking Charge of Your Health – 6:30-9pm. Learn about the energy system and a powerful acupressure tapping technique to help one feel better. See how energy sensitivity can be used to assess health and check the compatibility of foods. Shenendehowa Central School Continuing Education: 518-881-0611.


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.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 169 Keys to Abundance & Prosperity Workshop – 9am-12pm & 1-4pm. With Brenda Jenks and Shan-non Keyes Ciucevich. De-clutter, remove blockages from (and create space within) the chakras using hypnosis, EFT and Feng Shui. Stop blocking, start attracting abundance and prosperity. Receive Feng Shui abundance kit. $137 advance, $147 same day. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Preregistration required: 518-598-6968.Reiki Level II Class – 9am-5pm. Step up one’s heal-ing abilities to the next level, receive a Reiki level II attunement, learn the Reiki symbols, distance heal-ing and give and receive full body Reiki sessions. Limited to four students. $175. Registration and $75 deposit required. Troy Joyce: 518-271-7802.Multi-Faith Kirtan with One Love – 6-7:30pm. Ithaca’s One Love band leads ecstatic chanting from many spiritual traditions, including Sufism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity and more. Uplift-ing and participatory musical celebration of global prayer. Free. Unity Church, 21 King Ave, Albany. Info: 518-453-3603.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17Mindful Eating for the Holidays – 6-7pm. With Kelly VanAllen-Braswell, RD and diabetes educator. Learn to bring balance to one’s life through nutri-tion and pick up helpful hints on how to manage stress and appetite while enjoying the richness of the season. Tranquil Spirit Wellness, 1744 Rte 9, Castleton. Preregistration required: 518-339-8344.Introduction to Energy for Health & Healing: Practical Tips for Taking Charge of Your Health – 6:30-9pm. Learn about the energy system and a powerful acupressure tapping technique to help one feel better. See how energy sensitivity can be used to assess health and check the compatibility of foods. Guilderland Central School Continuing Education: 518-861-8591.What is the “paleo” lifestyle? – 7pm. Nutritional Therapist, Kathryn Kos will talk about her personal journey to health, discuss the paleo lifestyle and dispel some of the myths one may have heard about paleo. Free. CrossFit Soulshine, 165 High Rock Ave, Saratoga Spgs. Preregistration requested: 518-260-9749.Exploring “Beatles For Sale” By The Beatles – 7-9pm. Join clarinetist, singer, musicologist and Beatles specialist David Ciucevich to explore the Beatles, this album and the music that changed the world. $20 advance. $25 door. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Are Relationships Puzzling You? – 7:15-8:30pm. Take a different perspective and learn some dy-namic tools for breakthroughs in relationships with transformational specialist Barbra Gilman. $20. Joy of Yoga Studio, 376 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Registration required: 929-777-0873.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18Open Beginner Night of Nia Dance – 6-7pm. Learn

5-8:30pm/Fri-11am/Sun. Clear blockages, leave the bondages, release burdens in life and experience spiritual love. It is easy to tell others what they have to do but hard for us to hear what we have to do. Everything begins with the self, including relation-ships. Peace Village, Haines Falls Pre-registration requested: 518-589-5000.Open Mic at A Natural Way Café – 5:30-7:30pm. Share talent: singing, playing, poetry, comedy and more. Hosted by Vicki and Mike from 2Late. A Natural Way Café, 2568 Western Ave, Guilderland. Info: 518-621-0347.Restorative/Acupuncture Class – 6:30-8:30pm. Join yoga teacher Susan Cuda and acupuncturist Bridgette Kinder for a restorative yoga combined with acupuncture class as the ultimate way to release stress. $95. Namaste Yoga, 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga Spgs. Register online. Info: 518-222-7470.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14Krishna Das Performs – 8pm. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see Krishna Das for An Evening of Kirtan. $35 door. Albany Hindu Temple, 450 Albany Shaker Rd, Loudonville. Info: 518-584-0807.

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15Massage School Exploration Day – 9am-1pm. Sample science class, self-care techniques, bodywork demonstration. Receive a gift certificate for a free massage in the Student Clinic. $40 advance. $50 same day. CNW School of Massage Therapy, 3 Cerone Commercial Dr, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.The Sacred Pulse of Yoga: An Asana & Philosophy Workshop – 10am-12pm. Yoga asanas, pranayama, yoga nidra, meditation, bandhas, chakras, mudras and sacred teachings. $25. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Preregister: 518-744-5565.Holiday Open House – 10am-5pm. Special day of holiday shopping at Eileen’s Basic Foods. Sampling and raffles held all day. 585 Saratoga Rd, Glenville. Info: 518-399-2742.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15VegFest – 10am-6pm. Albany VegFest brings together the global health benefits of green sus-tainable living, environmental awareness and compassion for animals and all beings. Sponsored in part by Natural Awakenings Magazine of the NY Capital District. Free admission; suggested $5 donation. Polish Community Center, Washington Ave Extension, Albany. Details: AlbanyVegan.org.

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Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 12:30-1:30pm. Learn to make changes in life and become empow-ered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other techniques used. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Film Screening: Girl Rising – 2:30pm. Film fo-cuses on the social injustices faced by females in the developing world. Appropriate for ages 14 and up. Multipurpose Rm, East Greenbush Library, 10 Community Way. Info: Wendy, 518-286-3535.

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.Crystal Workshop – 7-8:30pm. Join Talyah Alpern for an informative workshop exploring the world of crystals. $20. Namaste Yoga, 2 Franklin Sq, Saratoga Spgs. Register online. Info: 518-222-7470.Money Isn’t The Problem! – 7:15-8:45pm. With Barbra Gilman. There is no such thing as a money is-sue, only an issue of what one is willing or unwilling to receive. Learn to de-construct the reality/energy around money. $20. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Registration required: 929-777-0873.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19Monthly Movie Night – 6-8pm. You Can Heal Your Life. Movie screening and discussion with the professionals at Vitality Health Center. $10 donation. 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia. RSVP required: 518-372-4706.Monthly Restorative Yoga – 6:30-8pm. With Lisa Mary. Passive stretching that uses props like blankets, bolsters, pillows and blocks to support the body as very gentle poses are held. Unwind, restore, meditate and rejuvenate. Space limited. $15. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20Advanced Reiki Chakra Class – 6:30-8:30pm. For level 2 and above Reiki students. Learn how to read the body’s energy system with a pendulum. $50. Advanced payment and registration required. BYO pendulum. Register: 518-357-8366.Forgiveness is Freeing Workshop – 6:30-9pm. This holiday season give oneself the gift of for-giveness. It frees one from the past allowing life in the present. Experience the holidays in a totally new way. $30 preregistered; $40 door. Hosted by Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures at the Pine Hollow Arboretum, Slingerlands. Preregister, Re-gina Wagner-Garhartt: 518-466-6846.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 6:45-7:45pm. Learn to make changes in life and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other tech-


FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28Wreath Making Workshop – 1-3:30pm. Make either a green wreath or a pinecone wreath at this festive workshop. $20 includes materials. Jean’s Greens, 1545 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack. Res-ervations required: 517-479-0471.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29Get Up! A Celebration of Living, Eating & Moving – 10am. Family-friendly event packed full of great ways to take steps toward better health. Don’t miss our headliner, Robin Quivers (cohost of the Howard Stern Show), discussing and signing copies of her book, The Vegucation of Robin. Proctor’s Theatre, 432 State St, Sche-nectady. Details: Proctors.org/events/get-up.

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plan aheadTHURSDAY, DECEMBER 4Pure Essentials – 6-7pm. Learn the benefits and how to integrate pure essential oils into everyday life. Raffles, gifts and fun. Free. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rt. 9, Castleton. Details: 518-727-8626.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5Crystalline Meditation & Crystal Singing Bowls/Flutes – 6:30-8pm. With All Energy. Heal from within, stimulate the cells and learn how to program a crystal to one’s intention in this unique meditation and healing session. Includes crystal, meditation, healing and tea social. $20. Good Karma Studio, 3 Vatrano Rd, Albany. Info: 518-810-7646.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6Holiday Open House – 10am-3pm. Sample teas, enjoy refreshment and a holiday atmosphere while shopping the many unique gifts available. Jean’s Greens, 1545 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack. Info: 517-479-0471.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 13

SATURDAY DECEMBER 13Holiday Craft Party – 12-3pm. With Dawn Dubois. Make four different holiday gifts all us-ing 100 percent pure essential oils. $20 materials included. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rt. 9, Castleton. RSVP required: 518-727-8626.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17Winter Solstice Celebration – 6pm. With Zelda Hotaling. Ceremony of drumming and reflection. Free, but reservation required. Jean’s Greens, 1545 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack. Info: 517-479-0471.

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Jivayate: A Restful Practice for Stressful Times – 1:30-4pm. During seasonal change and hustle and bustle, this is a gift of a restorative yoga. Learn prac-tical techniques, based on yoga and ayurveda bring-ing more balance and renewal to winter days. $30 before Nov 4. $35 after. Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts, 10 2nd St, Troy. Register: 518-512-3390.CD Release Performance – 8pm. Join Judy Wyle and special guest artists to celebrate the release of her newest CD, “The Girl in the Silver Leaves.” Tickets: BrownPaperTickets.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23MELT Your Pain Away – 2:30-4pm. With Genii Rutherford. Learn the technique that has been proven to help free oneself from pain in just a few minutes a day. Finish off class with a little bit of yoga suitable for everyone. $20 advance. $25 door. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Preregister: 518-744-5565.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 “One of the Three Finest Things Ever Made:” Mozart’s Don Giovanni – 7-9pm. Join clarinetist, singer and musicologist David Ciucevich to explore what is, for many people, the greatest opera ever written. $20 advance. $25 door. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

niques used. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Reiki Share – 7-8pm. With Christine Brown Ushi Reiki Master. Learn more about and experience Reiki energy in a group setting. Orenda Yoga, 461 State Rte 146 Guilderland Center. Register online. Info: 518-861-5714.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21Visual Journaling – 6-8:30pm. With Judith Prest. For those who love journaling or would like to. Writing meets art in this class with local artist and published author. $40. Advanced payment and reg-istration required. BYO favorite writing instrument. Register: 518-357-8366.Crystal Bowl Sound Journey Meditation & Healing – 7-8:30pm. With All Energy. Heal from within and stimulate the cells and body tissues in this unique meditation and healing session. Native American flute and guitar. BYO mat or blanket. $15 drop-in. $10 students. Open to men and women. The Woman’s Club of Albany, 725 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-810-7646.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22Become 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. Saratoga Spgs. Registra-tion required/details: 929-777-0873.Healing The Healer: A Yoga Intensive for Helping Professionals – 11am-5pm. A day long yoga retreat full of self-care and self-discovery and with Loretta Pyles and Andrea Fortuin. $75 includes vegan lunch. Orenda Yoga, 461 State Rte 146 Guilderland Center. Register online. Info: 518-861-5714.Training Awareness with Breath – 1-2:30pm. Using breath as a tool to train awareness. Become more aware of the body and mind and experience a deep relaxation in this meditation. $15 advance. $20 door. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.


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

FOR SALE

CAPITAL REGION – Portable Massage Table: $200. Healing Touch International Manuals 1-3: $35. Finger Lakes School of Massage 1-4 Manuals: $125. Postage extra. More bodywork related items available. Contact [email protected] for complete list.

HELP WANTED

DISTRIBUTION/DRIVERS – Wanted to distrib-ute Natural Awakenings in Delmar, Slingerlands & Voorheesville. Two days per month. Per stop pay. Inquiries: [email protected].

GREEN CLEANING – Local residential & com-mercial cleaning service seeks individuals who are passionate about the environment & natural living; have an eye for details & a strong team work ethic. Full & PT available. Letters of interest & resumes to Green Genies, [email protected].

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.

MASSAGE SPECIAL

ALBANY – Complimentary 15-minute facilitated stretching session with massage session purchase be-fore 11/1/14 with Linda Addario. Must be used at the same time as qualifying session, no cash value and cannot be transferred. Appointments: Bodyworks Wellness Center, 518-459-4325 (HEAL).

PRACTITIONERS WANTED

TROY – Seeking holistic and healing arts practitio-ners to collaborate and share space in an established, downtown office. Info: 518-272-1400.

VENDORS WANTED

2015 NY WOMEN’S EXPO – 2/28/15-3/1/15. Reserve your space today for this highly antici-pated event held at Siena College. 518-479-3976 or NYWomensExpo.com.

WEB DESIGN

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

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

sundayDharma 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.Sutra Sunday Sadhana – 9:30-11am. Vinyasa flow class bringing perfect balance of spirituality and sweat. No better way to start the day or week. $20 drop-in. Yoga Mandali, 454 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-584-0807.Earthly Remedies – Nov 2, 16, 30. 10am-2pm. Meet Erin Ethier, owner of Earthly Remedies. Product demon-strations, raffles and giveaways. Schenectady Green Mar-ket inside Proctor’s, 432 State St. Info: 518-534-3003.GE Kids in Free Days at miSci – 12-5pm. Children 12 and under receive free museum and planetarium admission when accompanied by a paying adult on Sundays through Jan 4, 2015, courtesy of GE. Museum of Innovation and Science, 15 Nott Terrace Hts, Schenectady. Info: 518-382-7890.Magic of Nature Through The Eyes of a Child – Nov 2, 9, 16. 12:30-2:30pm. With Zelda Hotal-ing. Children ages 8-18. Open their imagination to learn tools to strengthen self-esteem. Expand their intuition and to touch their connection to Mother Earth and what nature has to offer. $20/class. $55 for all. Tranquil Spirit Wellness, 1744 Rte 9, Castleton. Preregistration required: 518-732-7440.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.HOPE Pet Adoption Clinic – 1-4pm. 2nd & 4th Sun. Homes for Orphaned Pets Exist will be holding an adoption clinic. Wilton Mall, 3065 New York 50, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-428-2994.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. Info/loca-tion: 518-365-5660.Kids Yoga – 3:30-4:45pm. Ages 4-9. Encouraging cre-ativity, teamwork and imaginative thinking. Promotes improved concentration and breath awareness. YANA Yoga & Healing Arts, 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Ste 42, Malta. Pricing/register online: 518-522-5472.Multi-Faith Music & Meditation – 6pm. Featuring chants and songs from various faith traditions: Sansksrit chants, non-denominational chants, spiritual and gospel songs and original songs by Unity music team led by Roger Mock. Readings and reflections from various sacred sources and a time for guided meditation. Unity Church, 21 King Ave, Albany. 518-453-3603.Meditation for World Peace – 6:30-7:30pm. 3rd Sun. Observe as the universe is filled with energy of lightness, radiance and peace. Together, peace, love and care will be sent to the world. For new and experienced meditators. Free. Peace Village, Haines Falls. 518-589-5000.

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.Gentle Yoga & Meditation – 4:45pm. With Pam Lunz Medina, E-RYT. Half-hour of easy, soothing yoga followed by a half-hour or seated or supine meditation (personal choice). Perfect for stress relief, pain management and some well-deserved self-love. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Registration required: 518-744-5565.Hot Warrior Yoga – 6pm. 50 plus posture practice combining hot hatha and hot vinyasa in an 85-degree room. A physical and psychological challenge. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Prenatal Yoga – 6:15-7:45pm. Designed to improve the pregnancy and after birth experience. No yoga experience necessary. YANA Yoga & Healing Arts, 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Ste 42, Malta. Pricing/register online: 518-522-5472.

tuesdayQiGong – 8:15-9:15am. With Deborah Guilfoyle. Feel energized and peaceful at once in this practice of moving meditation. $15 drop-in. Yoga Bliss on the Blvd, 140 Erie Blvd, Schenectady. Info: 518-894-7086.Kripalu Yoga – 9am & 4:15pm. The yoga of compassion. Experience ancient postures, unique breathing techniques and quiet relaxation in a mind-ful manner that will allow release, relaxation and rejuvenation. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Body Fat Screening/Blood Pressure Testing – 11am-2pm. Testing body fat and blood pressure to then translate those numbers into healthy informa-tion. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Waterv-liet Ave, Albany. Info: 518-482-2667.


guided meditations. Drop-in. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Info: 518-545-4606.Intuitive Readings – 11am-2pm. With Julie. $40/30-min. Crossroads Gifts and Wellness, 133 Jay St, Schenectady. Info/appt: 518-357-8366.Adaptive Yoga – 5:30-6:45pm. With Kathleen McDermott. Perfect for those with physical chal-lenges. Gentle and joyful class filled with modifica-tions to meet individual needs. $15 drop-in. Yoga Bliss on the Blvd. 140 Erie Blvd, Schenectady. Info: 518-894-7086.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.Balletone – 6:45-7:30pm. Discover ballet moves and exercises to strengthen, tone, align, improve balance and stretch the entire body. No Ballet experi-ence required. $10/class, Albany Dance & Fitness, 1197 Central Ave, Albany. 518-573-3631.Joyful Yoga for Beginners – 7-8:15pm. Basic in-troduction to yoga class. Gentle, slow moving class focusing on breath and alignment in fundamental postures. $15 drop-in. Yoga Bliss on the Blvd, 140 Erie Blvd, Schenectady. Info: 518-894-7086.Qigong – 7-8:30pm. With Dr Wang. $15. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518- 581-3180.

thursdayBreastfeeding Café – 10:30am-12pm. 1st Thurs. For moms, their breastfed babies and toddlers 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.Body Boost Yoga – 6pm. A fusion of Ashtanga Bi-kram, Baptiste and Kripalu styles. Warm the body, progress into invigorating sun salutations, peak with a balancing asana and backbends, enjoy cooling forward bends and twists. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Meeting of Albany Holistic Nurses Society, Inc – 6pm. 2nd Thurs. Support and information for nurses and interested individuals. Monthly meet-ings and topics. Details/location, Sandra Marnell: 518 875-6050.Zumba – 6-7pm. Workout combining Latin and international music with dance moves. No dance experience necessary. $7/class or $60/10 classes. Tranquil Spirit Wellness Center, 1744 Rte 9, Castle-ton. Info: 518-269-0975.Makeup Class – 6:30pm. 3rd Thurs. New topic each month. $20. bloom. Salon and Makeup Bar, 5 Maple Ave, Voorheesville. RSVP required: 518-655-0043.Classical Hatha Yoga – 6:30-7:45pm. Practice in its purest state. Reduce stress and pain. $15 drop-in. $70 six classes. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd, Rte 5, Scotia. Register: 518-372-4706.

Meditation and Mindfulness Practice Group – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Thurs. All levels of experience welcome. Free. Solid Ground Center for a Balanced Life, 148 Central Ave, Albany. Info: 518-339-9443.Salon de Consciousness: What Else is Possible? – 7:30-9pm. 3rd Thurs. We are all miraculous creators and being conscious of how we create and what we create is an art. Learn to create oneself moment by moment then see how the world miraculously changes. Discover how to master this art through yoga, discussion and yoga nidra. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.

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

saturdayHooping – 8am. Tone the body, loosen the hips and free the mind. Learn how to keep the hoop up, do funky tricks and dance with the sacred hoop to great music. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Registration required: 518-744-5565.Saturday Shake-Up – 9-10am. A different dance or fitness class each week. For teens and adults only. $5-$12/class. Contact us for the schedule. Albany Dance & Fitness, 1197 Central Ave, Albany. 518-573-3631.Movement & Meditation – 9:30-10:30am. Interested in meditation but can’t sit still? Class combines the benefits of awareness through move-ment and mindfulness meditation based practices. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Info: 518-545-4606.Wake Up Warm Power Flow – 9:30-10:45am. In a warm room we will focus on alignment, building strength and conscious breath to move through the poses and finish in Savasana. Great for beginner and intermediate students. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Ayurveda Yoga Practice – 10am-12pm. Long pose holds break up the density in the body and allows the prana to move and activate the subtle energy system called nadi. Suitable for intermediate to advanced yoga students $20 suggested donation. Namaste Yoga, 2 Franklin Square. 2nd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-222-7470.Live Music Saturday Brunch – 10am-12pm. Alternating weeks. Good food, music and vibes. Good Morning Breakfast Café, 2100 Doubleday Ave, Ballston Spa. Dates/info: Facebook page. 518- 309-3359.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.

Wellness Workout – 12:15-1:15pm. Create a healthy integrated state of wellness, fitness and balance for the body, brain and whole being. $10 drop-in. Albany Dance & Fitness, 1197 Central Ave, Albany. 518-573-3631.Kids’ Yoga – 4:45pm. Children are by nature natural yogis. Class designed to keep them flexible, develop strength, build healthy posture, have fun and learn stress management techniques. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Registration required: 518-744-5565.Yoga Nidra for Preconception – 5-6:30pm. Quiets the mind and promotes the discovery of true nature within which has the power to lead to an empowered birth. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Register: 518-545-4606.Detox Yoga – 5:45-7pm. Twists, massage and con-scious breathing will assist all elimination systems, circulatory, digestive and lymph. Also purge toxic thoughts by moving awareness from chaos to present moment for a calmer mind. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Lyme Support Group – 6pm. 2nd Tues. Share sto-ries, frustrations and achievements. Find support and guidance. All welcome. Free. The Stram Center for Integrative Medicine, 388 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. Register: 518 689-2244.Tea Talk – 6pm. 2nd Tues. New topics each month. Samples of the featured tea served. $5. Short and Stout Tea, 1736a Western Ave, Albany. Preregister/Info: 518-456-8327.Awareness Through Movement – 6:30-7:30pm. Discover gentle movement sequences to create immediate improvements in personal awareness, posture, balance and flexibility. A Space to Grow, 216 River St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Register: 518-545-4606.Learn Hypnosis – 6:30-8:30pm. With NGH Hyp-nosis Trainer. Practice hypnosis skills, learn new hypnosis skills or satisfy a curiosity about hypnosis and how it can complement current work. Albany. Info/location: 518-256-6549.The Essential Ernest Holmes Class – Begins Nov 18. 6:30-8:30pm. 10-session course mixing medita-tion with an exploration and application of the basic truth principles taught by Science of Mind and Spirit founder, Ernest Holmes. Uncover ways to make the power of this teaching come alive in his/her life. Suggested donation $20/class. Required workbook $20. Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures, Charl-ton, Register: 518-423-3569.Taiji (Tai Chi) – 7pm. With Renjie Song. Learn the basic Yang style postures, movements and internal energy development. $15. One Big Roof, 433 Broad-way, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624.Intermediate Hatha Yoga – 7:30-8:45pm. Work with skillfully sequenced practices that will include various levels of asana, pranayama and meditations. Overall approach to yoga in this class is focused on the proper alignment of the body in order to obtain the maximum benefit and uniting movement with breath. Lilananda Yoga, 585 Saratoga Rd, Glenville. Register on-line or: 518-470-5240.

wednesdayMeditation by Donation – 8-9am. A meditation hour divided into four, 15-minute segments of


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

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

Family medicine and Japanese/Chinese classical acupuncture for health and wellness. Treating chronic disease, TMJ, migraines and other conditions not treated by western medicine. Available by appointment. Off-street parking. See ad, page 33.

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 7.

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 for all ages.

BODYWORK

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

Bodywork Professionals are sk i l l ed , ded ica ted , ca ree r therapists who specialize in the art and science of effective soft tissue massage therapy and a variety of bodywork modalities. See ad, page 11.

CHIROPRACTIC

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

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

DR. 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 7.

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

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

COACHING

BARBRA [email protected] • BarbraGilman.com

Learn a simple, powerful and playful method to change any area of your life; bringing ease, joy and glory effortlessly into your daily existence. Complementary initial mini session.

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

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

naturaldirectory 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

TONI CRAFTAlbany-Saratoga3 Computer Dr W, Ste 116, Albany518-248-0995 • ToniCraft.com

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

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

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

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

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

Over 20 years of energy healing experience. Using advanced, deep and powerful techniques to help clients feel better and achieve balance. Practicing in Clifton Park and Saratoga See ad, page 46.


FINANCIAL HEALTH

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

I n n o v a t i v e p l a n n i n g a n d information for fi nancial health, wellness, and fi tness through all life transitions, changes, and goals. Available for clients nationwide. See ad, page 14.

FITNESS

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

Relieve stress and feel positive about yourself as you get fit. Offering a variety of classes for all ability levels (adults and teens only). See ad, page 38.

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 fi tness levels. See ad, page 37.

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 8.

GREEN BUILDING/DESIGN

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

Specializing in green home renovation for families and businesses. Supplier of non-toxic interior fi nishes for walls, fl oors, counter tops. Showroom features natural and organic mattresses, and bedding. See ad, page 17.

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. See ad, page 36.

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

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

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 35.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

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

Combining a holistic approach that treats the teeth and the mouth, realizing the connection between dental health and whole-body wellness. Safe mercury removal. See ad, page 11.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAMLY FUN

CANVAS CORKS AND FORKS402 Union St, Schenectady 12305518-332-6854CanvasCorksAndForks.com

A new and unique way to un-cork that inner artist. Create a masterpiece while enjoying music, wine and craft beer, root beer and

orange cream soda floats along with CCAF’s signature mac n' cheese bar.

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 12.

FENG SHUI/SPACE CLEARING

BRENDA C. JENKS518-321-5940FengShuiBCJ.com

Assesses physical and non-physical infl uences 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 fi nancially. 18+ years’ experience serving the Capital District and beyond.


HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE

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

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

HOMEOPATHY

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

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

HYPNOSIS

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

Lose weight, stop smoking and release stress with hypnosis. Rece ive a f r ee hypnos i s sc reening and learn how hypnos i s c an a s s i s t you discovering the Key 2 Joy within you. See ad, page 13.

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

Feel good, feel well and be happy. Change old habits and smile. Discover why hundreds of happy clients now say, "hypnosis works well." Individual and group sessions. Hypnosis certification training available. Free phone consultation. See ad, page 17.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

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

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

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

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

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

LIGHT THERAPY

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

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

MASSAGE

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

The Capital District’s standard in therapeutic massage. Providing the latest in clinically proven therapies and delivering the highest level of quality service to our clients. See ad, page 7.

BALANCE MASSAGE STUDIO316 Delaware Ave, Ste 25, Delmar518-475-9999 • BalanceMassageStudio.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 14.

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

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

business with consciousness and integrity.” See ad, page 31.

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 47.

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

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

Young Living Essential Oils independent distributor.

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

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

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 18.

Advertise with us and reach thousands of healthy living individuals in the Capital Region who are looking for services like yours.

Call Today!518-729-0099 AlbanyAwakenings.com

Gr o w your Businessr o w your


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. See ad, page 31.

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.

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. See ad, page 31.

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.

PRIMAL BLISS NUTRITIONKathryn Kos, NTPAt Living Well Spa18 Low St, Ballston Spa 518-260-9749 • PrimalBlissNutrition.com

Nutritional therapy services. Specializing in healing digestion, balancing blood sugar and hormones. Addressing autoimmune conditions and their dietary connection. See ad, page 9.

MIDWIFERY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 6.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

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

Licensed mental health practi-tioners providing counseling for all types of losses including sudden death, suicide/homicide, divorce and separation. Assisting in life transitions, anxiety, depression and

self-esteem issues. Individual and group sessions available.

RECOVERY

SANDRA MARNELL, RN, MA Duanesburg & [email protected]

Certifi ed Healing Touch Practitioner, Addiction Counselor, Recovery Coach and Trainer. Support for withdrawal from alcohol and other drugs. Immune system strengthening. Healing and pain relief. Decrease depression and anxiety.

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.


STRESS REDUCTION

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.

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 23.

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 28

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

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

breast cancer screening. See ad, page 8.

SOMATIC PRACTITIONER

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

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

SOUND HEALING

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

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

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 CENTERS

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

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

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

Offering practical and positive sp i r i tua l p r inc ip les and teachings, honoring each person and the spiritual path which they follow. Sunday services at 9 & 11am plus M u l t i - F a i t h M u s i c a n d Meditation Sundays at 6pm.


WELLNESS

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

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

Movement and Mind. See ad, page 28.

WORKSHOPS/RETREATS

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

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

well-being. See schedule online.

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

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

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

With locations in Troy and Albany, Hear tspace i s a community-oriented yoga studio offering daily drop-in classes for all levels, workshops and special events. See ad, page 14.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Offering community based classes by donation. Calming and restorative Hatha yoga s tudio jus t 1 b lock off Broadway. All are welcome. See ad, page 12.

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

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

offering yoga for everybody. See ad, page 36.

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

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

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

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

Committed to helping people build strength from the inside out, creating strong minds, strong bodies and strong spirits.

Offering prenatal, kids', gentle yoga, and yoga for breast cancer recovery. Pilates, Reiki, personal training, bodywork and more.

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

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


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Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District - November 2014