Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District - December 2013

December 2013 | NY Capital District Edition | AlbanyAwakenings.com

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Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District

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

AlbanyAwakenings.com

PublisherCarolyn Coogan

Editors S. Alison Chabonais

Randy KambicLauressa Nelson

Tisha Temple

Contributing WritersWesley Delanoy

Kim SteeleLoreanna Thomas

Contributing PhotographersElla Duff

Adrienne Money

Design & ProductionStephen BlancettHelene Leininger

Michele Rose

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letterfrompublisherDear Santa, It’s been a while since I’ve written you a list, and I hope that you will check this one twice. Forgive me if I’m slightly channeling the holiday favorite, Grown-Up Christ-mas List as I gather my thoughts, but that is actually quite fitting because its heartfelt sentiments echo my own recent inspiration to focus on a much more meaningful wish list this year. My first wish is that we place selfish wants aside and

come to better value one another, honoring all those we encounter with dignity, respect and kindness. “It’s a big world with a lot of people. The best I can do to help humankind is to be all I know to be in my little corner of the world—to be kind to those I meet and to the environment,” reflects Linda Mix, author of Medici-nal Herbs for Life. This leads to my second wish, that as keepers of the Earth, we awaken to the realization that, because what we do today and what we set in motion tomorrow will affect the generations ahead, we intentionally work toward a gentler future de-signed to sustain all life on this planet. It’s why social accountability and environ-mental responsibility are part of our mission at Natural Awakenings. As Margaret Mead simply stated, “We won’t have a society if we destroy the environment.” Speaking of society, my third wish is that as conscience world citizens we learn to put aside our differences, refocus on humanity’s common concerns and work toward lasting economic and spiritual healing. I always give a thumbs up to cars sporting the “Coexist” bumper sticker, and I wonder if your sleigh boasts one as well. Too often we seem fixated on the conflict end of an issue, forgetting that love is the solution in all things. Yes, we could all use more love in our stockings this and every year, Santa. One of my favorite authors, Neale Donald Walsch, writes, “There are only two emotions—only two words in the language of the soul: love and fear. Fear wraps our bodies in clothing; love allows us to stand naked. Fear clings to and clutches all that we have; love gives all that we have away. Fear holds close, love holds dear. Fear grasps, love lets go. Fear rankles, love soothes. Fear attacks, love amends.” This sums up my final wish perfectly, that we may all fully realize the meaning and capacity of pure love and, in choosing and expressing it over all else, experience a refreshing new reality. Santa, it’s a miracle how you fulfill so many wishes every year. As a token of my appreciation, I plan to set out something to fuel your journey that is sweet, wholesome and inspired by this issue’s healthy holiday baking feature. I’ll also leave out a copy of Natural Awakenings for you to enjoy; please share it with Mrs. Claus. This month we are highlighting the health benefits of giving, which your family, elves and reindeer understand well. Since even Santa’s workshop may be looking for ideas, I hope you’ll take note of our special Conscious Giving Guide (pages 21 to 23) where our kindly advertisers (all on your Nice List, of course) offer a wealth of good options. I trust that after the holidays you’ll be more than ready to unwind with a yoga class or well-deserved massage too.

Wishing you a magical holiday season and joyous 201 4 filled with love,

Carolyn Coogan, PublisherCarolyn 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.

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16 ‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE WISE A Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity by Lane Vail

20 LOCAL GUIDE TO CONSCIOUS GIVING

by Wesley Delanoy

24 DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD The Helping – Health – Happiness Connection

by Lisa Marshall

28 TOO MUCH TOGETHERNESS? Exercise Helps Keep Family Holidays Merry by Sarah Todd

30 HEALTHY HOLIDAY BAKING

A Cornucopia of Delicious Treats

34 HUMANITY’S ETERNAL QUEST Eckhart Tolle on the Kingdom of Heaven Within by Eric Nelson

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6 newsbriefs

1 2 healthbriefs

14 globalbriefs 16 healingways

19 therapyspotlight

23 practitioner spotlight 27 community spotlight 28 fitbody

33 creativespotlight 34 wisewords 36 eventspotlight

37 calendar

42 naturaldirectory 47 classifieds

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newsbriefs

Lucky 13 Celebration for Balance Massage Studio

Balance Massage Studio, Inc., will celebrate the

start of its 13th year of busi-ness in Delmar with an an-nual Holiday Open House gathering from 4 to 8 p.m., December 6. Guests will enjoy holiday shopping bargains with 2001 pric-ing for gift certificates and aromatherapy products.

Visitors that bring a non-perishable food or sundry item to benefit the Bethlehem Food Pantry will receive a mini-mas-sage. Refreshments will be served. Balance Massage Studio offers massage and energy healing services in a peaceful and relaxing environment. The professional staff of eight state-licensed massage therapists is available to customize sessions. The studio is open seven days a week and was honored by inclusion in the massage category of Capital Region Living magazine’s Best of 2013 edition.

Location: 316 Delaware Ave., Ste. 25, Main Square Shops, Delmar. For more information, call 518-475-9999 or visit BalanceMassageStudio.com. See ad, page 17.

Seasonal Menu Offered at Akanomi Japanese Restaurant

Akanomi Japanese Restaurant, in Al-

tamont, will be making seasonal specials avail-able through December. Offerings include lem-ongrass chicken veggie soup, fruit lobster roll with kiwi and mango, crispy shrimp with sweet

chili sauce and coconut shrimp soup. Co-owners Vivian and Tony Wang opened Akanomi two-and-a-half years ago, and the cozy dining spot quickly be-came a community favorite due to its wide array of Japanese dishes such as miso soup, gyoza, California roll, tuna roll and hibachi shrimp. Sushi lovers will delight in the countless creative options. The Wangs are also committed to providing an expansive offering of gluten-free and vegan-friendly menu offerings to meet the growing requests from diners.

Location: 2568 Western Ave., Altamont (corner of Rte. 20 and Rte. 146). For more information, call 518-357-0888 or order online at AkanomiSushi.com. See ad, page 11.

Bundle Store Carries Eco Non-Toxic Wooden Toy Line

The Bundle Store, in Ballston Spa, has expanded its inventory

of ecological, non-toxic playthings made by Plan Toys. The newest additions, including toddler-sized rocking horses, tea sets, fire trucks, memory games and stacking bears, inspire imagination and promote children’s physical and intellec-tual development while promot-ing socially and environmentally responsibility. “The toys are dyed with soy and water-based colors, so there are no issues with chipping paint, and they’re safe for chewing on,” says owner Amber Chaves. “The line has been a favorite with shoppers, so I’m thrilled to be expanding the offerings.” The Bundle Store specializes in baby-wearing and features eco-friendly baby and maternity clothing and gifts. Regular events to educate parents and parents-to-be are held onsite. In addition to being a mother herself, Chaves is a pediatric occupational therapist with more than 10 years of experience and a certified infant massage therapist with special training through the Babywearing Institute.

Location: 35 Milton Ave. (Rte. 50), Ballston Spa. For more information, call 518-557-8809 or visit TheBundleStore.com.

Family Holiday Tea Party

Tiny Tots Tea Room, in Clifton Park, will host a

night of family holiday fun featuring dinner, dessert and dancing, beginning at 6 p.m., December 6. This will be a unique opportu-nity to get dressed up with the little ones and enjoy a formal-style holiday dinner in a child-friendly environment. The menu will include loaded baked potato soup, salad with mandarin balsamic dressing and craisins, grilled chick-en with steamed veggies and a surprise dessert. Everything served will be made simply, and diners won’t even realize these items are naturally gluten- and dairy-free. Tiny Tots will ensure that all items are also free of peanuts.

Cost: $41.99 per each adult/child pair; only 10 tables avail-able. To make reservations, visit TinyTotsTeaParty2013-eorg.eventbrite.com. For more information, call Sari at 518-348-1050 or email [email protected]. See ad, page 21.


23rd Annual North Country Festival of Trees

The North Country Festival of Trees

will be held from De-cember 5 to 8 at the Queensbury Hotel, in Glens Falls. Event proceeds will benefit the Prospect Child & Family Center, a nonprofit agency for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Guests will enjoy a wonderland of holiday decorations, beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, centerpieces, stockings, gingerbread houses and more from local artisans. The Children’s Wonderland features games and crafts for younger visitors and Santa will be available for pictures in his chalet. The center stage will feature entertainment and holiday music for all ages through-out the festival.

Fees: $7 adults/$5 seniors/$3 children 12 and under. Location: 88 Ridge St., Glens Falls. For more information, including an event schedule, call 518-798-0170 or visit ProspectCenter.com.

Dharma Meditation at One Big Roof

One Big Roof, a sanctuary

for holistic health and wellness in Saratoga Springs, is offering a weekly Dharma Meditation from 9 to 10:15 a.m. on Sundays in its spacious studio. Led by ordained Buddhist Chaplain Pierre Zim-merman, the meditation is followed by a short discussion. One Big Roof honors all con-templative traditions and focuses on enhancing compassion and wisdom for everyone through a variety of modali-ties including meditation, yoga, Reiki and stress reduction classes.

Suggested donation: $10. Location: 433 Broadway, 3rd Fl., above Putnam Market, Saratoga Springs. For more information, call 518-450-1624 or visit OneRoofSaratoga.com.


newsbriefs

Dr. Amy Cole Personalizes Communication

Back to Nature Family Wellness, the office

of Naturopath Dr. Amy Cole, now offers patients a personalized client website. This secure resource allows patients to work se-curely and directly with Cole, privately recording goals and health reminders. Personalized articles and video uploads are regularly added to the website. “When I initially meet with a patient at my office, the first visit may be upwards of an hour or more, because we fully discuss all aspects of a person’s well-being, including the mind, body and spirit,” says Cole. “I then use the portal to hone in on the areas of interest and concern, and it also serves as an efficient way of following up between office visits.” A graduate of the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine, Cole maintains offices in East Green-bush and Bennington, Vermont. She designs individualized health plans by collecting a comprehensive medical history and applying the principles of naturopathic medicine to pro-mote the restoration of system balance and the body’s ability to heal itself.

Locations: 77 Troy Rd., Ste. E, East Greenbush, NY; 160 Benmont Ave., Ste. 30, Bennington, VT. For more informa-tion or to make an appointment, call 518-701-4587 or visit AmyColeND.com.

Troy Victorian Stroll Returns for the Holidays

The streets of historic downtown Troy will come alive with holiday

splendor as the city marks the 31st anniversary of its Victorian Stroll from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., December 8. Attracting more than 20,000 visitors annually, this beloved event features more than 100 attractions. Artisans and food vendors from around the region line the streets and courtyards along River Street serving hot chocolate, cider and doughnuts and other holiday treats. Visitors can take in local acts such as The Lustre Kings, The Pokingbrook Morris Dancers and the RPI Jazz Band at a variety of venues throughout the day and enjoy entertainment from the many costumed attendees, performers and decorated storefronts that make the event especially festive.

Admission and parking are free. For a full schedule of events, visit VictorianStroll.com. See ad, page 41.


Holiday Open House at Jean’s Greens

Jean’s Greens Herbal Tea Works & Herbal Essentials will host its annual Holiday Open House from 10

a.m. to 3 p.m., December 7, in Schodack. Shoppers can enjoy refreshments, meet the staff and enter to win a holiday gift basket loaded with Jean’s Greens’ goodies. “We always look forward to the event because it’s our chance to showcase the many new, locally hand-crafted holiday items we add to our inventory especially for the season,” says owner Holly Applegate. “It’s also a great way to say thank-you to our loyal customers.” Jean’s Greens is known for herbal blends, teas, local honey, organic body products and a large selection of unique, handmade gifts. Additional offerings for the holidays include an expanded jewelry line, candles, greeting cards and one-of-a-kind ornaments.

Location: 1545 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack. For more information, call 518-479-0471 or visit JeansGreens.com. See ad, page 12.

16th Annual First Night Saratoga 5K Run

Beginning and ending on the beautiful Skidmore Col-lege campus, the 16th annual First Night Saratoga

5K Run will once again offer a healthy, social and fun way to end the year. The race, on a moderately challenging course including hills and downgrades, will start at 5:30 p.m., December 31, at the college’s athletic complex. Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female finishers and top three male and

female finishers in each five-year age division. All race finishers are awarded a commemorative First Night Saratoga medal. All registered runners will receive a limited edition First Night Saratoga long-sleeved T-shirt and a $5 discount on the purchase of First Night buttons when they are purchased while registering for the race. Due to the overwhelming popularity of the event and the limit of 1,500 runners, all registrations must take place prior to December 31.

Fee: $30/runner. Entry fees are nonrefundable and non-transferable. Register on-line at Saratoga-Arts.org/FirstNight/5KRun. See ad on back cover.

Local Shop Expands Organic Tea Line

In an expansion of its organic offerings, Schenectady-based Crossroads Gifts and Wellness now offers purple tulsi tea.

A traditional tea and spiritual plant in Asia and India for thousands of years, loose-leaf tulsi contains both the leaves and the small stems and branches that contribute to its restorative qualities, and a rich flavorful blend of peppery basil and cinnamon. Customers have the option to pur-chase this and other blends at Crossroads by the cup or by the ounce. In addition to the large selection of organic teas, Cross-roads stocks local gourmet, all-natural food items and cof-fees. The shop is filled with locally crafted fair trade and spiritual gifts such as cards, candles, crystals, books, music, drums and ritual items. The store also hosts regular events such as intuitive readings and healings.

Location: 133 Jay St., Schenectady. For more information, call 518-357-8366 or visit CrossroadsGallery.com.

coverartist

Bearing GiftsWill Bullas

Combining award-winning artistic skills with a humorous point of view, Will Bullas makes fine art fun. The whimsi-cal birds and other animals that popu-late many of his watercolors reflect the artist’s ebullient sense of sparkle and mischief; plus, he often titles the quirky wildlife works with zany one-liners. Bullas has been drawing since he was a youth. His first professional pieces were pencil portraits of fellow soldiers in Vietnam sent to loved ones back home. Returning from military duty, he enrolled in the Brooks Institute of Fine Art, in Santa Barbara, California, and graduated with a degree in oil painting. Today, Bullas is a signature mem-ber of the American Watercolor Society and the National Watercolor Society; in 1986 he was also elected to member-ship in the Knickerbocker Artists of New York. His art currently enlivens a wide range of products, including high-fash-ion T-shirts, note cards and coffee mugs, and his books, A Fool and His Bunny and A Fool Moon, include introductions by fans Clint Eastwood and Doris Day. When asked about the source of his inspiration, Bullas replies, “Abso-lutely everything—books, music, televi-sion… even listening to friends tell sto-ries can evoke some kind of imagery for me. Life is a bottomless well of ideas.”

View the artist’s portfolio at WillBullas.com.


newsbriefs

Corrections

We apologize for an error in the previously published arti-cle, "Energy Healing Comes of Age." Donna Eden founded

the Energy Medicine Institute, not Energy Medicine University. Also, we apologize for the misspelling of Michele Dolan's name in our November Albany Total Wellness article.

HeartSpace Midwifery Favors Quality Over Quantity

HeartSpace Midwifery, based in Troy, is dedicated to the ever-expanding bellies

of its clients. With the aim of supporting women and families that want to take full responsibility for their healthy pregnancies, HeartSpace keeps its number of clients de-liberately low to ensure they are offering the highest level of service. “We act as a safety net, sounding board and sometimes, a nudge for our clients,” shares co-founder and Licensed Midwife Heidi Ricks. “We want to be available and not stretched too thin, so we strategically choose and schedule the number of women and families we can work at during a given time.” HeartSpace offers a variety of services, including GYN, preconception counseling, holistic pregnancy, birth, postpartum support services, homebirth midwifery, hospital labor support, lactation counseling and menopause support. “We believe the best model of health care for a woman and her family is a con-tinuous and compassionate partnership,” adds Ricks.

Location: 406 Fulton St., Ste. 513, Troy. For more informa-tion, visit HeartSpaceMidwifery.com. See ad, page 29.

New Year’s Eve Camp-In at Museum of Science

The Museum of Science and Innovation (MiSci), in Schenectady, will host a special

New Year’s family camp-in night, beginning at 8 p.m., December 31, and ending at 8 a.m., January 1. The event includes a scavenger hunt, planetarium show, hands-on activities and plenty of time to experience and explore the exhibit hall. Dinner is included and campers will enjoy a light breakfast the following morning. “The event is most appropriate for kids ages 7 to 10,” says MiSci Education Program Manager Jennifer Sumner. “Bring all necessary toiletries and sleeping gear to be com-fortable on the museum floor.” For those with younger chil-dren, MiSci will host special activities of a Mini-Camp-In that will conclude at 1 a.m.

Tickets: $96 per child or $50 per child for Mini-Camp-In participants. Location: 15 Nott Terrace Heights. For more information or to register, call 518-382-7890, ext. 237.

Divine Harmony Hosts Special Holiday Service

The Divine Harmony Spiri-tualist Church will present

a Christmas Service at 4 p.m., December 14, in the Fellow-ship Hall at the Niskayuna Reformed Church. The service will be filled with holiday cheer, positive energy, uplift-

ing music, healing, laughter and the energy of Spirit. An independent spiritualist church practicing and teach-ing unconditional love, asserting no dogma or creed, Divine Harmony is a safe and sacred place for everyone to freely discover and develop an individual spiritual path, purpose and spiritual nature. The church practices and promotes prayer, meditation and mediumship as ways to connect more deeply with divinity and the spirit world. Children ages 3 to 12 are welcome to attend Children’s Lyceum during the service where the little ones will talk about the Christmas Spirit, love and angels. A social hour featuring hors d’oeuvres, live holiday music and fellowship will follow.

Location: 3041 Troy Schenectady Rd., Niskayuna. For ser-vice times and schedule, visit DivineHarmonyChurch.com.

New Organic Store and Spa Opens in Saratoga

Saratoga Botanicals is now open at 80 Henry Street, in

Saratoga Springs. In addition to making and selling its own brands of organic skin and body care, organic mineral makeup, specialty teas and a wide variety of herbs, the store doubles as an elegant boutique spa, with a professional staff providing spa services that include massage, authentic Thai shiatsu, acupuncture, osteopathic and function medicine, Reiki, energy healing, aromatherapy, organic skin care treat-ments and makeup applications. “We wanted to bring to the area mindfully made health and beauty products that were pure, organic and environ-mentally friendly,” says Franesa Pyle, who cofounded Sara-toga Botanicals with Nicole Fellini. “We’re focused on creating a healing spa where people can also find the beauty inside themselves,” adds Fellini. The store can accommodate private parties and create custom ladies’ night out packages and offers gift baskets, boxes and certificates for the perfect holiday gift option.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 518-306-4108 or visit SaratogaBotanicals.com. See ad, page 16.


inmemoriam

John R. Voell

John R. Voell, father, author and visionary co-founder of Natural

Awakenings Publishing Corpora-tion, has served as a mentor to our family of publishers for 15 years. During John’s time with us, the Universe responded to his faithful living of the principle to love God, one’s self and others by providing fertile soil for the big ideas he rel-ished nurturing. His books, Cancer: How to Heal It—How to Prevent It and Cancer Report, as well as his latest development project, United We Can, were just a few of the ways that John allowed himself to be an instrument of the Divine in helping humankind. John was passionate about the success of our magazine, pleased and proud that the now 90-strong family of Natural Awakenings franchise publishers touch the lives of millions of readers each month. He’s known around here for saying, “I don’t know what your spiritual beliefs are, but I believe that when I leave this world, I’m going to somehow measure my success by those I’ve helped along the way.” Those that knew and worked with him would say that he more than succeeded—he soared.


healthbriefs

Protecting Children from Cellphone RadiationBecause cellphones have become commonplace and are re-

garded as fun and cool, most children, especially pre-teens and teens, want one or think they need one. While the devices can potentially save lives in emergencies, among the costs and risks associated with them is the fact that cellphones emit a significant amount of electromagnetic radiation. Although the cellphone industry tries to downplay them, the number of scientific studies linking the electromag-netic radiation from cellphones to deleterious health effects has grown strong enough to warrant the addition of a warning statement on cellphone packages. For parents that feel that they can no longer hold out, or those with children that already have cell-phones, here are some strategies for reducing exposure to the radiation.

n Keep some distance. Never put the phone in contact with the head or other delicate body parts. Do not carry it in a pocket. The radiation dose increases dra-matically as the phone comes closer to the body.

n Use speakerphone or an air tube headset, but do not use an in-ear Bluetooth de-vice. The wireless technology adds a second source of electromagnetic radiation.

n Choose a phone with a low SAR value (0.9 or less), a rating that shows how much radiation the head will absorb. By law, the SAR value must be stated in the product literature.

n Limit talk time. Only use cellphones for emergencies and quick, short calls. Use a landline for everything else.

n Add shielding to the phone. Products that reduce the body’s exposure include shielded skins, holsters, cases and docks.

n Avoid using the phone when the signal is weak because the phone will boost its radiation power to connect with the tower.

n Wait for the call to connect before putting it near the head. Cellphones emit the most radiation when they are connecting to the tower.

Resource: Less EMF, Inc. 776B Watervliet Shaker Rd., Latham. 518-608-6479. LessEmf.com. See ad, page 7.

MEDITATION HELPS HEAL TRAUMATIZED VETERANSTranscendental Meditation (TM)

has a dramatic healing effect on people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and can also result in lower blood pressure, according to two new studies. TM—a technique to avoid distracting thoughts, decrease stress and promote a state of relaxed aware-ness—reduced PTSD symptoms in combat veterans by as much as 50 percent in just eight weeks, according to a study from Georgetown University, in Washington, D.C., published in the journal Military Medicine. The veterans also reported decreased depression and improved quality of life, with a greater ability to come back to their civilian lives after returning from duty. Vietnam War vets randomly as-signed to TM sessions at a Denver Veterans Center also experienced greater reductions in alcohol usage, insomnia and depression than those in conven-tional counseling. At the conclusion of a landmark three-month study, 70 percent of the meditating veterans felt they no longer required the services of the center. A separate American Heart Association report on the general U.S. population showed that the practice of TM generally reduced systolic blood pressure in subjects by five points and diastolic by three points, enough to put many of them into normal range. Previous clinical trials have shown that lower blood pressure through TM practice is associated with significantly lower rates of death, heart at-tack and stroke. TM is usu-ally practiced for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day by sitting comfortably and focusing on an individually selected word or series of words.


Sprinkle Cinnamon to Avert Alzheimer’sCinnamon is known as an excellent antiox-

idant that improves fasting blood sugar levels and prevents heart disease. Now new research offers yet another benefit and reason to add this potent spice to our daily diet. Researchers at the University of California, Santa Bar-bara, have confirmed that cinnamon helps protect against Al-zheimer’s disease. They found that the cinnamon compounds cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin help stop the formation of “tangles” of tau protein in the brain, hallmarks of the memo-ry-robbing neurodegenerative disease. The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, says these powerful antioxidants that give cin-namon its potent flavor and scent defend mental function in a unique way. “Take, for example, sunburn, a form of oxidative damage,” explains Roshni Graves, of the univer-sity’s Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology. “If you wore a hat, you could protect your face and head from oxidation. In a sense, this cinnamaldehyde is like a cap,” protecting against tau proteins. The findings suggest that sufficient cinnamon consumption might stop the progression of Alzheimer’s or even prevent it.

CRANBERRIES SUPPORT HEALTHY CIRCULATION

Regularly drinking cranberry juice may help control blood pressure, according

to new findings presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions. Cran-berry juice, the researchers note, is rich in antioxidants—naturally occurring mol-ecules that have been associated with the

blood pressure-lowering benefit. U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers discovered a moderate systolic pressure reduction—about three points—for people that drank two eight-ounce glasses of cranberry juice every day for eight weeks. Because of the sugar calories in juice, consider the alternative of a whole-food cranberry supplement.


globalbriefs

Genuinely GreenwashedSix Ploys to Avoid in Eco-PurchasesA report by TerraChoice Environmental Marketing exposes these six “greenwashing” marketing ploys to watch out for when shopping:1. Hidden Trade Off: A refurbished plasma TV might reduce the need of buying new at first, but new or not, such TVs are energy hogs.2. No Proof: Can a third party verify claims such as “organic” or “all-natural”?3. Vagueness: Beware of products claiming to be “chemical-free” or “no hormones added”.4. Irrelevance: Claims that have no relationship to the product or might be made with any other product in the same category, such as [chlorofluorocarbon] CFC-free shaving gel.5. Fibbing: A falsehood that can’t be backed up, such as “certified organic” for products for which no such certification exists.6. Lesser of Two Evils: An attempt to put a green twist on a product that’s inherently harmful to humans and the environment, such as organic cigarettes.

Escalating ThirstEndangered Western Tree HabitatsA team of scientists at the University of Grenoble, in France, have isolated ultrasonic pops 100 times faster than what a human can hear in slivers of dead pine wood bathed in a hydrogel to simulate the conditions of a living tree. They exposed the gel to an artifi-cially dry environment and listened for the noises that occurred as air bubbles built up, blocking water uptake, similar to what occurs to trees during drought. As leaves on a tree collect carbon dioxide, they open their pores, a process that leaves them particularly vulnerable to water loss. Douglas firs and pine trees can re-pair this damage as frequently as every hour, says Katherine McCulloh, a plant ecophysiologist at Oregon State Univer-sity. However, the bubbles are deadly for other species. Today, the typical forest in the often thirsty American West contains an unnaturally high density of 112 to 172 trees per acre. Besides intercept-ing rain and snow that would otherwise enter the groundwater supply, such an overabundance threatens native species. “Deprived of [the effect of] low-intensity, naturally occurring fires, aspen, lupine, sequoia and fireweed can’t reproduce,” notes Jamie Workman, of the Environ-mental Defense Fund. “Deer lose edge habitat. Threatened owls and raptors can’t navigate through increasingly dense thickets.” Workman argues that thinning out small trees is the answer.

Contributing source: Utne.com

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

Sustainable SolutionsCompetition Launched to Measure Ocean AcidificationAs part of their mission of “making the impossible possible,” organizers of the XPrize, a global leader in incentivized competitions, have launched the $2 mil-lion Wendy Schmidt Ocean Health XPrize contest. Schmidt is president of the Schmidt Family Foundation, which strives to advance the development of clean energy and support wiser use of natural resources. The program aims to spur innovators to transform our understanding of ocean acidification—a grave problem associated with the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide—via breakthroughs in ocean pH-sensing technologies de-signed to monitor and sustain ocean health.

For information and to register, visit xprize.org or Facebook.com/xprize.


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WORKING TOGETHERTO MAKE THE WORLD

A BETTER PLACE

Intuitive GenerositySpontaneity Sparks AltruismWhat makes people put “we” ahead of “me”? To find out, a group of Har-vard University research-ers enrolled thousands of people to play a “public good” game in which subjects were divided into small groups, given some money and the choice to keep it or contribute it to a common pool that would grow and benefit the entire group. Researchers discovered that those that made their decisions quickly were more likely to contribute to the common good. Taking it a step further, the researchers applied time pressure to the decision-making process. They then found that those faced with making a quick decision most often chose the “we” option, while those that spent more time deliberating ended up giving less money to the group kitty. The Massachusetts research team, which tested thou-sands of online worldwide participants, concluded that spontaneity and intuition guide people into rapid acts of kindness.


‘Tis the Season to Be WiseA Prime Time to Rejuvenate and Birth Creativity

by Lane Vail

For California acupuncturist Dan-iela Freda, counseling patients that grapple with low energy during

winter is routine. “They’re often con-cerned something is wrong, since our society expects us to feel the same way year-round,” says Freda, who maintains a private practice in San Francisco. “But in fact,” she adds, “everything is right.” According to a study published in Psychiatry Research, only 4 to 6 per-cent of Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by a predictable seasonal pattern of major depressive or bipolar disorder. For the vast majority of the population, a slight seasonal variance in mood and

behavior is normal, confirms Kathryn Roecklein, Ph.D., a clinical psycholo-gist and prominent SAD researcher at Pennsylvania’s University of Pittsburg. Practitioners of Traditional Chi-nese Medicine (TCM), like Freda, view decreased energy in nature’s winter-time as a reflection of the season’s energy. In this philosophy, rising (yang) and falling (yin) energies cycle as the seasons turn. Winter is governed by quiet, slow, introspective and creative yin energy. As winter yields to spring, the bright, fast, expansive and extro-verted yang energy gains momentum to peak in summer. “Nature expresses universal ener-

gies in a big way,” says research psychol-ogist and mind-body medicine expert Joseph Cardillo, Ph.D., author of The Five Seasons. Who can ignore a blos-soming spring or an abundant autumn? “Those same energetic cycles,” says Car-dillo, “are mirrored in the microcosmic human body and human experience.”

Chill Out Although the December 21 winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, temperatures in most of the U.S. continue to fall through February. Cardillo advises embracing winter’s chill because it diverts our attention from daily activities so that we pause to consider what’s important. “The effect is similar to splashing cold water on our face,” he remarks. As the cold draws animals into hibernation and plants into dormancy, it also beckons us to enjoy extra sleep, notes Freda, as we follow the sun’s path: Earlier to bed; later to rise. She encourages her clients to incorporate restorative activities into daily routines. “Intentionally set aside time to connect with the breath and quiet the mind,” she counsels. Try gentle yoga or t’ai chi,

healingways Spring is a time for new beginnings, summer a time

for growth, autumn for gathering abundance and winter for introspection.

~Joseph Cardillo


listen to relaxing music, curl up with a cozy book or take nature walks, flush with fresh sensory experiences. Cardillo explains that slowing down naturally creates space for the contem-plative and creative qualities of yin en-ergy to rise. Meditating, visualizing and journaling promote access to one’s inner wisdom. “Winter is a perfect time to examine the myriad ideas you’ve dreamt up and assemble them into a new you,” says Cardillo. “Now you are prepared to use the robust energy of spring to scatter those ideas abroad.”

Reflect on WaterIn TCM, the element of water, symboliz-ing focus and purity, is closely associat-ed with winter. Highly adaptable, water can be solid, liquid or formless vapor; it can flow over, under, around or through obstacles with ease; and it can be still and contained. Contemplating the power of water in any of its forms can help synchronize one’s consciousness with the season’s gifts. “When your mind is unstuck and flowing like water, your dreams start becoming real to you, simply because you’re in the flow, the present moment,” observes Cardillo, who also authored Be Like Water. He suggests looking to water for guidance in creating solu-tions, sharpening focus or moving ef-fortlessly on to the next step.

Find Balance Freda points out that within the strong yin energy of winter, “There are yang moments, celebratory moments, to keep us going.” An imbalance can occur when the slowness of winter is completely counteracted by too much high-energy socializing, working or rushing through the day. “An excess of yang during the winter,” counsels Freda, “rather than a glimpse of it, can deplete us,” contributing to stress, fatigue and depression. Conversely, for those with an already predominantly yin personal-ity (quiet, introverted, low energy) that overindulge in the yin energy of winter, an attempt at restoration and quietude can lead to lethargy and isolation. “I see this clinically,” says Freda. “Instead of embracing a little extra rest and re-laxation, some people become exhaust-

Rituals Reverse Winter’s BluesUnpleasant winter memories can affect one’s emotional experience of the season every year like clockwork, says Dr. John Sharp, a physician, psy-chiatrist and author of The Emotional Calendar. Fortunately, it is possible to take a personal inventory, be aware of such behaviors, innovate on tradi-tions and create a new experience. Holistic Psychologist Joseph Car-dillo goes further, suggesting that we create a “personal prescription” to mindfully manage difficult emotions during wintertime. He encourages activating the senses and combining two or more sensory experiences to amplify the effectiveness. Appealing options include:

n Light scented candles or diffuse essential oils (citrus brightens; laven-der soothes)

n Invite bright colors into living spaces (reds excite; greens, blues and whites calm)

n Nourish the palate with winter vegetable stews

n Create a playlist of soothing nature sounds or uplifting music

n Warm up near a cheery fire after spending time in the frosty outdoors

ed and lose their motivation altogether. They become stuck in the yin.” Cardillo recommends that such individuals engage in mood-brighten-ing outdoor activities to help restore balance. Roecklein agrees, noting that SAD sufferers undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy (which emphasizes positive thinking and beneficial behav-iors) likewise are encouraged to par-ticipate in physical and social activities that bring joy and meaning.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer in South Carolina. Connect at WriterLane.com.


We all need iodine, yet most of us don’t get enough of it through our diet. A study in

the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that iodine deficiency in the developed world has increased fourfold in the past 40 years and now affects nearly three-quarters of all adults. Numerous U.S. practicing physicians quoted widely in the media estimate that the incidence of hypothyroidism in our adult population may be between 30 and 70 percent.

Thus, we can’t efficiently produce the thyroid hormones that serve as chemical messengers triggering nearly every bodily function. The pres-ence or absence of iodine affects our every cell.Be Aware of Hypothyroidism Symptoms

Low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, is the most recognized and obvious indicator of low iodine intake because the thyroid gland contains more concentrated iodine than other organs.

Symptoms can range from extreme fatigue and weight gain to depression, carpal tunnel syn-drome, high blood pressure, fibrocystic breasts and a variety of skin and hair problems.

Hypothyroidism can further cause infertility, joint pain, heart disease and stroke. Low iodine levels also have been associated with breast and thyroid cancers. In children, insufficient iodine has been strongly linked with mental retardation, deafness, attention deficient and hyperactivity disorder and impaired growth, according to studies by Boston University, China’s Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and France’s National Academy of Medicine. The answer is simple: Taking the right kind of iodine in the right dosage can rebalance thyroid function and restore health to the thyroid and the whole body.

Reasons Behind Iodine DeficiencyRadiation: Almost everyone is routinely exposed to iodine-depleting radiation emitted by cell phones, Wi-Fi, microwave ovens and other electronic devices. Iodized table salt: The human body cannot utilize the iodine added to this product. Low-sodium diets: Failure to use healthy salts to fulfill sodium requirements, plus over-use of zero-nutrient table salt in foods, leads to iodine depletion.Bromine: This toxic chemical overrides iodine’s abilities to nourish the thyroid, adrenal and other hormone-producing glands. A known carcinogen, it is used as an anti-caking ingredient found in almost all baked goods, unless the ingredients specifically cite unbromated flour. Iodine-depleted soils: Due to poor farming techniques, iodine and other minerals in soil have declined, so most foods today are devoid of naturally occurring iodine. Proper iodine supplementation with a high-quality product like Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine can prevent harm by protecting the thyroid and other endocrine glands and restoring proper hormone production.

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therapyspotlight

Rolfing Structur-al Integration is a soft tissue

approach to re-establishing natural alignment. Dr. Ida Rolf, the innovator of this process, held that when a body is in alignment, it works properly. Rolfing is based on the premise that the human body is orga-nized around a central vertical axis, which Rolf called “The Line”, a refer-ence point for movement and a guide to alignment upon which to meditate when standing or sitting. Rolfing Structural Integration is a hands-on myofascial approach, mean-ing practitioners use muscle and con-nective tissue as the media of change. Fascia is the glue that holds everything together, providing shape, support and reinforcement to muscle, bone and movement. From a practitioner’s standpoint, the goal is to make the body less com-plicated, using the simplicity of The Line as a guide. Injury and repetitious patterns can cause aberrations from ideal functioning as the fascia gradually shortens, tightens and adjusts to accom-modate misalignments. The process is classically done in 10 sessions. The first seven focus on the structural phase and the final three are the integrative sessions. Clients can expect to participate in a way that differs from a traditional massage. A practitio-ner may call for movement or conduct parts of the session seated or standing. Because bodies are designed for living, a Rolfing session often moves off the table. The Rolfing practitioner will systematically work on body parts and their relationships to create a balanced body that feels organized. When the front and back, sides, top

Rolfing Structural Integration Restoring Natural Alignment to Create Fluid Movement

by Nick Pavoldi

and bottom are all working together, the body feels fluid, capable and in a way, fearless. The experi-ence can be plea-surable; however, sometimes clients that seek this work

when they have pain or discomfort in their body may feel that the process is painful. Here, pain may be a misnomer, because it implies causing harm or injury. While pain is never the goal or purpose, a Rolfing Structural Integration session can be dramatic. Bodies have an extraordinary systemic compensa-tory system. Uncomfortable places may lurk undetected in the body until a mirror is held to them. Acute pain or discomfort in an area may not be the culprit, just the loudest victim. Each person’s experience may differ, but the outcome is often similar. A Rolfed body feels fully inhabited, capable, fluid and comfortable. Pat-terns, emotions and injury tell the story of our lives and can be held in tissue, imprinted by trauma or repetition. What the body does, the mind will follow, and vice versa; fluid movement and thinking are hallmarks of Rolfing Structural Integration. While the pro-cess may be transformative, it is more akin to a re-emergence, the discovery of something wonderful that’s been there all along.

Nick Pavoldi has been practicing bodywork since 1996. After studying at the Guild for Structural Integration, he opened Bodywork Professionals, which now has two locations: one in Latham, at 578 New Loudon Rd. (518-389-2200), and another in Saratoga Springs, at 79 Washington St. (518-389-2083). See ad, page 7.

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We know it as the most won-derful time of the year, yet too often the holiday season

pushes wellness to the back burner and quick, convenient holiday consumer-ism trumps efforts to purchase healthy and sustainably produced gifts. To give mindful readers more opportunities to choose gifts that satisfy their good intentions, Natural Awakenings has compiled a list of unique offerings from a few of our favorite local businesses. To make gifting even simpler, pair our suggestions with creative themes that initiate new traditions. Try the four-gift rule with kids: one thing they want, one thing they need, one thing to wear and one thing to read. Suggest exchanging locally crafted items with out-of-town family members, so every-one receives a unique gift they might not encounter otherwise. Perhaps shift from packaged products altogether and instead purchase gift certificates or pre-paid memberships or make charitable donations in the name of loved one. More inspiring gift ideas for kids, pets, relatives and friends can be found at the Natural Awakenings web store, NAwebstore.com. Enjoy practicing con-scious consumerism with these ideas for gifts of wellness and sustainability.

Keepsakes To Enhance Well-BeingArtique provides a unique and creative place to shop for art, crafts, antiques and collectibles, mainly locally pro-duced, that enhance the body, mind and spirit. It is also home to a special product line called Lucid Light, which provides eco-friendly solutions for the

Local Guide to

by Wesley Delanoy

mind, body and home. This unique and stylish selec-tion of inspira-tional gifts, décor and fashion acces-sories made with recycled, reused and natural mate-rials are a favorite

with shoppers. Lucid Light is available at Artique’s Clifton Park location, 1536 Crescent Rd. (518-724-0750) or visit Artique at Colonie Center, Albany. ArtiqueShopping.com.

Jean’s Greens Herbal Tea Works and Herbal Essentials stocks herbs, teas, essential

oils and bath and body products that make ideally thoughtful gifts to comfort and soothe. It’s also a reward-ing feeling to support the local crafters who create goods that are sold in the gift shop. 1545 Columbia Tpk., Schodack. 518-479-0471. JeansGreens.com.

The Cross Eyed Owl, a locally female-owned business with close to 20 years as a leading gift provider in our community, has endless aisles of possibilities for

even the most difficult people to buy for. Look for the all-natural favorite “Naked Bee” brand of lotions as well as “Tree Free Greetings” made with post-consumer recycled paper. 3143 U.S. Hwy. 9, #8, Valatie, NY 12184. 518-758-6755. CrossEyedOwl.com.

Peaceful Inspirations sells handcraft-ed, fair trade and conscious-ly made jewelry, accessories

and gifts that are sure to delight. Most jewelry pieces are one-of-a-kind and include crystal or gemstone accents. Books, artwork, candles and inspiration-al gifts are plentiful within the shop that also takes an active role in giving back to the community by regularly collecting goods for the local food pantry. 384 Kenwood Ave., Delmar. 518-439-7039. PeacefulInspirations.net.

Presents That PamperPure Elements An Organic Salon and Wellness Shop provides

products and services that are non-toxic and eco-friendly. Gift certificates are available. 1724-1728 Western Ave., Albany. 518-608-5405 or 518-621-7984. Pure-Elements-Salon.com.

Saratoga Botanicals sells custom-made Saratoga Botanicals- brand skin care and cosmetics that

contain their own proprietary blend of herbal infused oils, essential oil blends, and botanical extracts. 80 Henry St., Saratoga Springs. 518-306-4108. SaratogaBotanicals.com.

Albany Massage, part of the wellness cooperative Albany Total Wellness, prioritizes relaxation and features therapeutic, sports and performance


massage, as well as shiatsu and pregnancy massage. Off-site massage is also avail-able. 130 Everett Rd., Albany. 518-915-1788.

AlbanyMassage.com.

Albany Therapeutic Massage & Sports Performance Center is a healing and rehabilita-tion center that helps people with post-physi-

cal therapy injuries and sports perfor-mance using the tools of coaching, personal training, massage therapy, bodywork and energy balancing. 17 Computer Dr. E., Albany. 518-366-4429. PerformAtYourBestNY.com.

Balance Massage Studio specializes in hot stone

massage, as well as other specialty modalities, including deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point, lymphatic facilitation, Thai yoga and shiatsu. Energy healing and aromather-apy are also available. 316 Delaware Ave., Ste. 25, Delmar. 518-475-9999. BalanceMassageStudio.com.

Community Massage & Holistic Therapies is unique in offering several facial massage modalities, such as acupressure and cold

marble; the company also specializes in techniques for hands and feet, such as hydrotherapeutic soaks and reflexology. Hot herbal compresses and paraffin treatments penetrate stiff joints with heat. 255 River St., Troy. 518-272-1400. TroyCommunityMassage.com.

For Furry Family MembersThe Pampered Pet offers doggie day care, boarding and grooming services in a safe environment with plenty of love,

where dogs are not confined to cages or kennels. Holistic dog food is also sold onsite. 415 U.S. Hwy. 9, Schodack Landing. 518-732-2724. KiraPamperedPet.com.

Charitable Gifts Give Back

Peaceful Acres Horses seeks donors to sustain its work in feeding and fostering rescued horses.

Its website lists regularly needed supplies. Anyone that makes a cash donation of $100 or more receives a pair of Peaceful Acres Horses earrings. Contributions may be made to Peace-ful Acres Horses, Inc., and mailed to 3740 Rynex Corners Rd., Patterson-ville, NY 12137. 518-887-3178. PeacefulAcresHorses.com.

Regional Food Bank donations make a generous and thought-ful gift. Consider a gift in honor of family, friends, and business associates. For a

donation of $5 or more per gift, the Food Bank will provide a card acknowledging that a financial gift to feed the hungry has been made in the name of the recipient. To make a donation to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, visit DonateNow.Network-ForGood.org/1415634.

Gifts That Preserve Good Health

Less EMF, Inc., sells products, such as computer and cellphone shields, that protect the body from the penetrat-

ing effects of electromagnetic fields. 776B Watervliet Shaker Rd., Latham. 518-608-6479. LessEMF.com.

Advanced Purifica-tion is a local, inde-pendent distributor of Water Bright, a new stainless steel, in-home water purifier that requires no cartridge

changes. As a gift, Water Bright contin-ues to give gallon after gallon of delicious drinking water all year long, eliminating the need for bottled water. 518-423-4092.


Celebrate With Creative Movement Options

Conscious Movements, a part of the wellness cooperative

Albany Total Wellness, offers classes that use the Feldenkrais Method, an innovative form of movement educa-tion. 130 Everett Rd., Albany. 518-629-5664. ConsciousMovements.com.

Joy of Nia Move-ment blends the precision of the martial arts, the creative joy of dance arts and the restor-

ative energy of healing arts into an expressive, fun way to exercise. 3 Denny Rd., Guilderland. 518-452-3679 or JoyOfNiaMovement.com.

Healing with Movement Pilates is a specialized healing center

that teaches exercise, lifestyle modifica-tions and postural awareness through internal alignment and strengthening. Approaches include Pilates, Meeks Method, Internal Alignment Awareness, qigong and t’ai chi. 2021 Western Ave., Albany. 518-669-9677. HealingWith Movement.com.

Soluna Yoga hosts all levels of yoga classes in styles that include yoga nidra, yin, chair, gentle, prenatal, ashtanga, Vinyasa and Vinyasa

flow, as well as classes in Pilates, qigong and meditation. 2317 Balltown Rd., Niskayuna. 518-429-1455. SolunaYoga.com.

In Harmony Yoga offers yoga special-ties such as prenatal, Vinyasa, detox flow, hot warrior, Kripalu and Five Tibetan

Rites of Rejuvenation. 137 Remsen St., Cohoes. 518-369-8325 or InHarmonyYoga.org.

Key 2 Joy, Inc., specializes in hatha and tantric yoga styles, guided visual-

ization, hypnosis and meditation, as well as Reiki, Healing Touch, Quantum Touch, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and sound healing, 145 Vly Rd., Ste. 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968. Key2Joy.net.

Something Special for Children

The Bundle Store is full of eco-friendly and

consciously made gifts for babies and toddlers. From handmade organic cotton baby blankets to wooden toys crafted with soy and water-based ink, its products have been carefully selected so that we can spend less time reading labels and more time enjoying our little ones. 35 Milton Ave. (Rte. 50), Ballston Spa. 518-557-8809. TheBundleStore.com.

Michael Ward offers guitar instruc-tion for kids ages 6 and up. Music lessons are a creative and potentially life-changing

experience for children. 518-369-6365. MikeWardGuitar.com.

Decking the Halls in a Sustainable Home

Green Con-science Home strives to be the leading source of sustainable

building materials, natural home goods and skilled artisans to help customers create healthy and beautiful spaces. From eco-friendly home improvement products, such as paint, plaster, flooring and countertops to organic mattresses, Green Conscience Home has everything needed to make it a green new year. 33 Church St., Saratoga Springs. 518-306-5196. Green-Conscience.com.

Wesley Delanoy is a contributing writer for Natural Awakenings magazine who lives in Albany.


practitionerspotlight

Growing up in New York City, Dr. Stuart Erner was deter-mined to be a piano prodigy,

not a medical doctor. He started playing television theme songs on the piano at age 5. At 8, he auditioned at The Juilliard School, where he was told that if he continued on the same path, he would be accepted into the prestigious institution. Yet, he also had a tremendous interest in medicine, reading textbooks about the human body when he visited the library starting at age 7. When he realized after some time that he didn’t want to practice piano four hours per night, the transition to seriously study-ing biology was easy. His passion for intensive study inspired him along a remarkable path. Erner’s interest took him to the State University of New York at Stony Brook, where he graduated magna cum laude with a degree in biology/pre-med in 1972. By 1976, he had earned his medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, in Boston. After completing his resi-dency training in internal medicine at Berkshire Medical Center, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, he began his career with a large internal medicine prac-tice, in Albany. Erner eventually started his own practice with a focus on bariatrics, the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity. “I had a desire to help those struggling with weight and eating disorders,” he recalls. “My practice was multidimensional; we utilized psychologists, nutritionists and more to get results.” After several years, he incorporated primary care back into the practice. Although his concentration was traditional medicine, he had a keen

interest in nutraceuticals and herbal formulations. He conducted numer-ous clinical studies in the areas of men’s health, obesity management and osteoarthritis and won two awards from the Scripps Clinic, in California: one for a study on a formulation for prostate health and the other for an osteoarthri-tis formulation. After a hospital acquired his prac-tice in 1996, Erner stayed for four years before embarking on a new journey. “I was seeing 40 to 60 patients per day once the hospital took over,” he explains. “I was spending very little time with my patients and did not enjoy going to work.” He says his patients noticed the changes. “They told me I wasn’t the same doctor, but I had no choice; it was the system.” In 2001, Erner made what he calls his best move ever, launching Capital Region Progressive Medicine and Longevity Practice, in Albany, which offers a holistic, integrative and personalized approach to health and wellness. During an initial consulta-tion, Erner spends nearly two hours with each patient, which includes a comprehensive medical history. “This

practice is all of the things I envi-sioned when I first started in medi-cine,” he notes. “I have a devoted and happy group of patients, and most importantly, I can spend time educat-ing and informing them about preven-tive health care.” Over the years, Erner attended many conferences and joined a va-riety of organizations that prepared him for the break from the traditional model of medicine. “I try to look at all systems of healing,” he states. “I still prescribe meds if it’s the best ap-proach, but I consider all approach-es.” He believes patient education is crucial, and discusses in detail the various treatment approaches for each identified medical problem. “We want them [patients] to understand everything we do,” he explains. “It is all evidence-based, but if they have questions, we are happy to answer them. I’m here as their advocate for prevention, health and wellness.” Erner’s services encompass weight control, age management and comple-mentary medicine, with specialties that include the management and treatment of menopause, andropause (low testos-terone), chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, thyroid and adrenal disorders and toxicity issues. “It’s so rewarding be able to help patients that are frustrated with tra-ditional medicine; they aren’t seeing results; they aren’t feeling well, but they don’t know why,” Erner comments. “I’m there to solve the problem. I have the time and the energy—I’m working hard on their behalf.”

Capital Region Progressive Medicine and Longevity Practice is located at 1873 Western Ave., Ste. 101, Albany. For more information, call 518-452-4910 or visit DrErner.com. See ad, page 8.

DR. STUART ERNER’S PATIENT-CENTERED PRACTICE

by Beth Davis

Dr. Stuart Erner


Growing up on Long Island, New York, young Stephen Post often received an unusual prescrip-

tion from his mother when he was feeling grouchy or under the weather. “She’d say, ‘Why don’t you go out and help someone?’” he recalls. “I’d go out and help Mr. Muller rake leaves or help old Bobby Lawrence fix his boat. Then, I’d come back feeling better, and feeling better about life.” Decades later, Post—a professor of preventive medicine at New York’s Stony Brook University—is among a grow-ing contingent of researchers exploring just how such acts of generosity and the feelings (empathy, compassion, altruism) that prompt them may actually improve our mental and physical health. Recent studies have shown that people that volunteer live longer, suf-fer less chronic pain, have bolstered

immune systems, are more likely to recover from addiction, and experience an in-the-moment sense of calm akin to that which people experience during and after exercise. Scientists have yet to fully understand what the physiological underpinnings are of such health ben-efits, but early studies credit a cascade of neurobiological changes that occur as we reach out to help a loved one, or (in some cases) even cut a check to a stranger in need. Could generosity be the missing, of-ten overlooked ingredient to a prescrip-tion for better health? Perhaps, says Post, author of The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times. “This is a young science, but what we have begun to discover is that there is something going on, physiologi-cally, in this process of helping others

that seems to make people feel happier and report greater health.”

Helping Hands Live LongerWe’ve all felt it: That blush of inner-warmth we get after we bring a plate of healthful, steaming food to a sick relative, volunteer to read to kids at a local preschool or help sort donations for a shelter. According to a 2010 survey of 4,500 Americans by United Healthcare, 68 percent of those that volunteered in the previous year reported that doing it made them feel physically healthier; 73 percent noted that it lowered their stress levels. Meanwhile, 29 percent of volun-teers that suffered from a chronic illness claimed that giving of their time helped them to better manage the illness. Other studies, by researchers at Boston College, found that when chronic pain sufferers volunteered to help others with similar conditions, they saw their own pain and depression levels decrease. At least seven studies have shown that people that regularly volunteer or give of themselves live longer—especially if they do it for genuinely altruistic reasons. Cami Walker, 38, of Denver, has experienced firsthand the physical benefits of being generous. After one sleepless night, lying awake and, “feel-ing sorry for myself,” due to a flare-up of her multiple sclerosis, she decided to take the advice of a spiritual teacher that suggested she, “Give something away each day for 29 days.” On day one, she called a sick friend to offer her support. On day two, she dropped $5 in a hat for some street performers. Another day, she treated a friend to a foot massage. By day 14, she recalls, “My body was stronger and I was able to stop walking with my cane. After months of being too sick to work, I was able to go back part-time.” Walker subsequently wrote the bestselling 29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life. It has inspired a global giving movement, with participants blogging about their experiences at 29Gifts.org. As she recently explained to The New York Times, “It’s about stepping outside of your own story long enough to make a connection with someone else.”

The Helping – Health – Happiness Connection

by Lisa Marshall

DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD


The Helper’s HighUniversity of Michi-gan researcher Sara Konrath, Ph.D., has found that people engag-ing in acts that benefit others tend to have more calming hormones like oxytocin and progesterone coursing through their bodies. If presented with a tough situ-ation later, they are likely to react with a muted stress response, churning out fewer harmful stress hormones, such as cortisol and norepinephrine, and main-taining a calmer heart rate. Konrath is studying whether altruistic thoughts and behavior might also be associated with an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. “Just thinking about giving seems to have a beneficial physiological impact,” says Post. For instance, a late 20th-century study by then Harvard Psychologist David McClelland found that when people watched a film about Mother Teresa’s work with orphans in Calcutta, levels of immunoglobulin A (a marker of immune strength) shot up. A more recent study found that people had higher levels of oxytocin in their blood after they had watched a moving film about an ill 4-year-old boy. Some research further suggests that the act of giving may release natural opiates, such as endorphins, into our system. One landmark analysis of 1,700 people published in Psychology Today found that more than 68 percent experienced a “helper’s high” when physically helping another person, and 13 percent reported a decrease in aches and pains afterward. It’s a concept that’s been documented many times since. Meanwhile, new brain-imaging research has shown that acts of giving (including making a charitable dona-tion) stimulate “reward centers” in the brain. This includes the mesolimbic pathway by which natural dopamine is released, leaving us feeling euphoric. On the flip side, “We found that people that are high in narcissism and

low in empathy have higher cortisol levels,” advises Kon-rath. “They walk around with high stress reactivity, which is

really hard on the body.”

One other clear example of the health benefits of helping lies

in the field of addiction research. Recent studies by Maria

Pagano, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at Case Western Reserve Uni-

versity School of Medicine, found that recovering addicts

that volunteer to help other addicts stay sober are twice as likely to remain so themselves. That’s because narcissism and self-absorption are often at the root of addiction, and generosity is an anti-dote to narcissism, Pagano says. “The founders of AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) figured it out,” Pagano continues, noting that a primary focus is on serving others. “They figured out that this selfish root is there before the illness develops, and is sustained unless you treat it. This is treatment; it is a way of continually weeding out the narcis-sism that made you sick.”

Born to GiveStephanie Brown, Ph.D., an associ-ate professor of preventive medicine at Stony Brook, is the daughter of an evolutionary psychologist and a pioneer in the study of altruism’s neurobio-logical roots. In sharp contrast to what she describes as the long-held “self-interested” assumption about human nature (that we help others only to help ourselves), she suggests that humans are biologically wired to be empathetic and generous. “It makes more sense from an evolutionary perspective for us to sup-press self-interest,” for the benefit of the whole sometimes, she says. New research from the University of Wash-ington suggests that babies as young as 15 months old exhibit fairness and empathy. So, why don’t we always stop to help? Our anxious, busy, modern-day lives get in the way, suggests Brown. “It could be that our natural, default state is to help when we see need, but what prevents that is our stress response.” That is, stress often gets in the way:

Maybe we pass a stranded motorist on the road, but drive on by because we’re on a timetable. Perhaps our instinct is to offer a helping hand to a homeless person, but we fear that more will be asked of us than we are prepared to give. We wish to bring a meal to a dy-ing relative, but are apprehensive about what to say when we visit. Brown’s recent federally funded studies show that at least some of the calming hormones and quietness of heart often seen in habitual givers may actually precede and enable their acts of selflessness by interrupting their potential stress response before it stalls their helping hand. “I am suggesting that when you see helping going on, something beneficial has already hap-pened to the giver’s body,” says Brown. When givers perceive a need, in-stead of fretting and fleeing, they calmly stop to help. In the end, everyone walks away feeling a little more generous.

Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.


How to Up Our Generosity Quotient

Focus on someone else for a change, whether it’s looking a store clerk in the eye or refraining from shouting at a referee at a sporting event. “People can become more empathetic if they just practice taking someone else’s

perspective,” says University of Michigan researcher Sara Konrath. “When encountering a homeless person, for example, our inclination may be to not go there psychologically, because it is painful to imagine. Allow yourself to try.” n Do something for nothing. “This idea that everything has to be paid back hangs over our lives,” says Stephen Post, author of The Hidden Gifts of Helping. “Just be generous and expect nothing in return. Pay it forward.”

n Don’t reserve your generosity for people you know. Do something nice for someone you don’t know or will never meet.

n Be consistent. “Don’t think you can be kind in one domain and dastardly in another,” says Post.

n Do something that you feel called upon to do, or that you are good at.

n Slow down, take a deep breath and look around. Need abounds. Stop to help a stranger in some small way, even if you are in a hurry.

n Don’t help just to get healthy, impress your friends or get a tax deduction. “Mo-tivation matters,” says Konrath. “If you are volunteering just for self-interested reasons, research shows you aren’t going to live any longer than someone who doesn’t volunteer at all.”

n Volunteer for a cause you really believe in, or help a person you truly care about.


communityspotlight

Soluna Yoga, centrally located in Niskayuna, reflects the philosophy of its owner, Lisa Alexander, to

keep the chaos of life at the door and create a place of peace where inner quiet can be regained. The waiting area is simple and comforting, adorned with beautiful photos of yoga poses; it is a place to shed not only coats, but also daily stresses. Alexander discovered yoga when a friend invited her to a class. “After that first class, I knew I would practice yoga for the rest of my life,” recalls the former a dancer and lifelong sports enthusiast. Alexander started her career as a Spanish teacher for grades seven to 12, and later became an adjunct profes-sor at St. Rose College. “I was at a crossroads as to what to do professionally, and through a very winding path, I realized above all else I was a teacher and that I loved teaching, and I also loved yoga. That’s when I de-cided to become a yoga teacher,” says Alexander, who earned her 200-hour teaching certificate from the Kripalu Center in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, and holds many other training certifi-cates, including a 100-hour certifica-tion in yin yoga granted by its founder, Paul Grilley. Alexander began teaching yoga

at the Grace Lutheran Church while establishing Soluna Yoga. “The pastor at the time, Jo Page, who now is also a yoga teacher at Soluna, and the parish-ioners were incredibly welcoming and excited to offer yoga at their place of worship,” Alexander shares. In 2006, after teaching at Grace Lutheran for two years, Alexander completed her studio, where every detail was designed with yoga students in mind. From the floor-ing to the soothing honey hues; from the height of the sconce lighting to the minimal décor, the studio was designed to be a tranquil space for the practice yoga and mindfulness of the inner self. “The next milestone after opening the studio was opening a school,” notes Alexander. Soluna Yoga School began its first 200-hour teacher training this year on September 27. Alexander brings a special dedi-cation to whole health that is both focused and enthusiastic. She wants people to be healthy and to understand how empowering yoga can be; she feels confident that she can help people. “At Soluna, we strive to provide the student with an environment that will enhance their personal and physical growth in their yoga experience,” she explains. The entrepreneur continues to develop educational programs for those aspiring

to become yoga teachers and current instructors that want to continue their education. Alexander also wants to open a holistic wellness center for yoga and health. She regularly participates in health fairs and fundraisers and has volunteered to teach the women that lived at the City Mission, in Schenect-ady, and participated in the Freedom Academy program. “When a student walks in the door, whether brand-new to yoga or a continuing student, I want them to feel comfortable, welcomed and safe,” re-marks Alexander. Every class at Soluna Yoga lasts an hour and ends with a meditation. Levels range from begin-ner to the advanced and styles include yoga nidra, yin, chair, gentle, prenatal, ashtanga Vinyasa and Vinyasa flow. The studio also hosts Pilates, qigong and meditation classes.

Soluna Yoga is located at 2317 Ball-town Rd., in Niskayuna. For class descriptions, schedule and more infor-mation, call 518 429-1455, visit SolunaYoga.com or find it on Face-book. See ad, page 19.

Kim Steele is a contributing writer for Natural Awakenings magazine who lives in Guilderland.

Lisa Alexander of Soluna Yoga Creating Tranquility & Well-Being

Through A Passion for Yogaby Kim Steele


fitbody

Too Much Togetherness?Exercise Helps Keep

Family Holidays Merryby Sarah Todd

Given family hopes and often unrealistic expectations that everything will go perfectly,

holiday gatherings can sometimes be a recipe for untoward stress. One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the-sea-son tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move sup-ported by research findings at Princeton University. Other experts suggest that from practicing a favorite Eastern mo-dality to taking a natural spin around the neighborhood, we all have instant access to foolproof tactics for staying relaxed, healthy and more even-keeled among kin this winter. To mend nerves frayed by debates at the dinner table, slip into a nearby bedroom for a calming yoga work-out. Yoga’s emphasis on controlled breathing makes it ideal for treat-ing family dynamics straight out of Silver Linings Playbook. The Mayo Clinic reports that deep breathing increases the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream, easing headaches, mus-cular tension and chest tightness. Yogic breath-ing patterns also are shown to lower resting heart rates, which helps practitioners stay composed in the face of any intra-family disagree-ments or other stressors. For a quick, relaxing yoga rou-tine, begin with a

few breathing exercises before moving into a sun salutation—a sequence of full-body poses, or asanas, performed in a smooth, continuous flow. Begin standing, palms pressed together in the tadasana, or mountain, pose. Then move through a series of motions that sweep the arms over the head, ex-panding the chest, before dipping into downward dog and plank poses, which help increase flexibility and strength. End lying down in the shavasana, or resting, pose with eyes closed and let the quiet settle in. Resistance-training exercises are another option. Release pent up ten-sion by pushing against a wall. Stand

about three feet away, lean in and push. Position feet at an angle so

that a straight body line forms the hypotenuse of a triangle with the wall and floor. This activity drains the limbs of tightness and stretches

out hamstrings and calf muscles, enabling us

to walk away feeling light and limber. While some

people can happily greet and maintain cheerfulness

throughout holiday family times, others may feel a bit

anxious. For a sure-fire endorphin boost, try

a cardiovas-cular workout

like running, which German researchers

published in Cerebral Cortex confirm produces a flood of euphoria on cue. A quick jog or spirited walk outside helps elevate mood while strengthen-ing the immune system, helping to keep feelings of melancholy at bay. Before heading for the door, those stretching their legs outside in colder climates need to dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer than the thermometer reads. This helps prevent the body from overheating, especially after being sed-entary for an extended period. To get the blood flowing beforehand, do some simple stretching or take a few trips up and down the stairs.

Exercisers that prefer to stay sheltered from wintry weather entirely have a solid alternative; an indoor car-diovascular workout can mimic jogging’s mood-lifting effects. Try alternating 12 reps of jumping jacks, lunges, squats and crunches to get the heart pump-ing. Consider a second series for a higher intensity workout. All of it will give muscles that often go slack dur-ing holiday loafing a chance to flex. Because these moves don’t require any equipment, such electives are as portable as a travel hair dryer during holiday visits anywhere. After one or more of these solo workouts, many revelers may be ready to up the ante on family togetherness. For a healthy dose of quality time, round up the gang and enlist them in a high-energy outdoor activity like hik-ing, sledding or even Ultimate Frisbee. Participating in friendly family competi-tion is healthy fun and gives everyone something else to talk about later.

Sarah Todd is a freelance writer in Brook-lyn, NY. Connect at SarahToddInk.com.

One of the best ways to keep potential ’tis-the-season tensions under control is to carve out some time for exercise, a move supported by research findings at Princeton University.


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photos by Stephen Blancett

There’s nothing so comforting as the scent and taste of home-baked treats. To fill a home with

cheer, try these delectably healthy recipes. Some are gluten- or dairy-free, others pack less butter and sweeteners (thus fewer calories) than their typi-cal counterparts, and a few are vegan (containing no animal products, includ-ing honey). All are perfect for holiday celebrations, hostess gifts or exchanges.

Gluten-Free Apricot SconesThese scones freeze well and taste even better the next day, warmed for 30 seconds in a microwave. Serve with apricot jam or honey.

Yields 8 servings (342 calories per serving)

11/2 cups brown rice flour1/2 cup tapioca flour1/3 cup potato starch21/2 tsp baking powder21/2 tsp xanthan gum1/4 cup natural cane sugar1/2 tsp salt1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cubed5 eggs (divided)1/2 cup plus 1-2 Tbsp plain low-fat yogurt3/4 cups dried apricots, finely chopped1/2 tsp vanilla extract1 tsp almond extract

1 Tbsp water1/4 cup turbinado sugar

Preheat oven to 350° F. Sift together first 7 ingredients (brown rice flour through salt). Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse meal. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, yogurt, apricots and extracts. Add to flour-butter mixture. Mix until just combined.

Dust work surface with brown rice flour. Turn out scone mixture and pat into a nine-by-nine-inch square. Cut scones into desired shape or use a bis-cuit cutter. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Whisk remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush mixture over scones. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden.

Apple-Walnut Coffee CakeHere’s a favorite yummy treat for festive brunches. Guests and family will never guess that this decadent indulgence contains much less butter and sugar than a typical coffee cake.


consciouseating

1/4 cup light brown sugar2 tsp ground cinnamon2¼ cups whole-wheat pastry flour (divided)1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter at room temperature1 cup maple sugar2 eggs1/4 cup plus 1 Tbsp low-fat buttermilk (1 percent)2 tsp vanilla extract1 tsp baking soda1/2 tsp salt2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Butter pan sides and top of parchment.

In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, cinnamon and ¼ cup flour. Cut in ¼ cup cold butter until mixture becomes crumbly and resem-bles a streusel topping. Refrigerate until ready to use.

In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together ½ cup room-temperature but-ter and maple sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Beat in buttermilk and va-nilla. Sift remaining 2 cups flour, baking soda and salt into egg-butter mixture. Mix until just combined.

HEALTHY HOLIDAY BAKINGA Cornucopia of Delicious Treats


Fold in apples and walnuts. Pour batter into prepared pan and sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cool before releasing from pan.

Vegan Trail-Mix CookiesThese crunchy-chewy cookies are perfect for snowshoe hikes or cross-country ski trips.


3/4 cup all-purpose flour3/4 cup whole-wheat pastry flour1 cup carrot, shredded11/2 cups unsweetened coconut, shredded11/2 cups natural cane sugar11/2 cups rolled oats1 tsp baking powder1/2 tsp salt1/2 cup water1/2 cup canola oil1 Tbsp vanilla extract1 cup grain-sweetened chocolate chips1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted1 cup cherries, dried

Preheat oven to 350° F. Mix together flours, carrot, coconut, sugar, oats, bak-ing powder and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together water, oil and vanilla. Add wet mixture to dry. Mix to combine. Fold in chocolate chips, pecans and cherries.

Scoop batter by 2 tablespoons each onto a baking sheet, pushing in any stray pieces.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until light-ly golden. Cool for 2 minutes and then remove to a rack to cool completely.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice MuffinsThese lightly sweetened, butter-free muffins evoke the scents and tastes of the holidays. With fewer carbs and calories than regular sugar, the concen-trated fruit-juice reduction also adds moistness; look for all-natural options, such as Wax Orchards’ Fruit Sweet.


1 cup all-purpose flour1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour1 tsp baking soda1/2 tsp salt1/2 tsp ground nutmeg1 tsp ground cinnamon1/2 tsp ground ginger1/2 tsp ground allspice1 cup pumpkin purée2/3 cup fruit-juice reduction (or light agave nectar)1/2 cup canola oil1/4 cup coconut milk1/2 cup unsweetened coconut, shredded1 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted3/4 cup dried cranberries

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with baking cups.

Sift together flours, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and allspice in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together pumpkin purée, fruit-juice

reduction or agave, oil and coconut milk. Stir wet mixture into dry

until just incorporated (do not overmix). Fold in

coconut, walnuts and dried cranberries.

Divide batter evenly among muffin tins. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until an inserted toothpick

comes out clean.


Healthy Red Velvet CupcakesThese moist cupcakes use spelt flour for a lighter texture, more protein and fewer calories than wheat flour. Avoid artificial colors by using vegeta-ble-based food coloring, or make your own.

Yields 8 to 10 servings (352 calories per serving)

Cupcakes11/2 cups white spelt flour1 tsp baking powder1/4 tsp salt1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed)1/2 cup natural cane sugar1/2 cup melted coconut oil (or safflower oil)2 eggs at room temperature3/4 cup buttermilk at room temperature2 tsp vanilla extract2 tsp lemon juice3 tsp natural red food coloring

Agave Cream-Cheese Frosting8 oz Neufchâtel (reduced-fat) cream cheese at room temperature3 Tbsp plus 1 tsp agave nectar1 tsp vanilla extract2 tsp cornstarch

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a muffin tin with 8 to 10 cupcake liners or coat with cooking spray.

Place flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Sift cocoa powder into the bowl. Whisk until well blended.

Place sugar, oil and eggs in a separate large bowl. Whisk until smooth. Add buttermilk,

vanilla, lemon juice and food col-oring. Whisk lightly until combined.

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredi-ents and stir just until mixture comes together. Do not overmix.

Gently spoon batter into muffin cups. Bake 10 minutes and test with a tooth-pick. If it doesn’t come out clean, turn pans and bake another 3 to 5 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on rack for 2 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely before frosting. (Or store in an airtight contain-er until ready to frost. Do not refriger-ate, which dries them out.)

Beat cream cheese, agave and vanilla together. Sift cornstarch over mixture and blend until smooth. Frost cupcakes just before serving.


creativespotlight

Local guitar in-structor Michael Ward’s inter-

est in music began at a family get-together when he was about 12 years old. His cousins were playing in the basement—one on drums; the other on guitar. Ward was fascinated and admittedly thought it was “so cool” that he knew he wanted to learn. After moving from Pennsylvania to New York at age 14, Ward began taking private guitar lessons, which he contin-ued throughout high school. His initial goal was to make it as a performer, but he also started teaching his peers on the side. After high school, he attended the University at Albany, where he received a bachelor’s degree in communication and music and began to realize that teaching was his true passion. When Ward took a full-time job giving lessons in East Greenbush, his first student was also his first experience teaching a child. Instructing the 7-year-old boy confirmed that he had found his calling. “When that student started, he couldn’t play one note, now he’s 13 and in a band,” shares Ward. The opportunity to witness the joy kids get from playing prompted Ward to start building his business. Today, he gives lessons at Rocky’s Music Studio, in North Greenbush, and at the Patrizio Center for the Arts, in Latham. He teaches about 60 students per week that are mostly ages 6 to 16, although he has a few adult clients, as well.

Specializing in rock, jazz and blues, Ward strong-ly believes lessons can—and should—be both fun and educational. “It’s important to know the fundamentals, such as how to hold your hand the right way and how to sit properly, but that’s not always fun. I try to strike a balance between skills and working

on music the student likes.” Ward explains that younger students often are initially interested in playing songs, as opposed to work-ing on skills such as music reading, theory and technique. However, as they progress and mature as musicians, they begin to recognize how these aspects contribute to their performance and focus more on improving them and on creating their own music. They also gain the ability to learn songs on their own. “These acquired skills allow musicians to express them-selves more fully and understand and appreciate the music they enjoy on a deeper level,” Ward states. “They also allow a musician to learn to play the music they enjoy with more fluidity and greater ease.” Without learning or sharpening some of these skills, Ward says, students can become stuck in a rut. While his general teaching phi-losophy remains the same with every student, Ward recognizes that each per-son is different, so he makes individual adjustments based on the student’s skill level and interests. “There is always

something to work on; something that you can get better at,” notes Ward. According to Ward, guitar play-ers are notorious for not reading music because they have a special system of musical notation called guitar tabla-ture, or tab. Using guitar tabs, a guitar-ist can play a wide variety of music without ever having to learn how to read standard sheet music. However, Ward thinks learning to read music is an essential skill, especially for younger students and teenagers that want to get serious about a career in the music industry. “Kids don’t know what their future entails; what interests them now may change in a few years,” he comments. “For example, they may develop a taste for different types of music, like jazz. So now, maybe they want to play in a jazz band, but there are no tabs in jazz bands,” he continues. “If they want to learn a new instrument, it will be easy if they can read a chart. It’s like learning a new language. It can be boring, but we work on reading skills a little each week. Eventually, they can read any-thing. It’s very empowering.” Empowerment is just one of the numerous benefits of learning to play music, according to Ward. “Kids learn how to set and achieve goals; manage their time, especially if they are older students involved in extracurricular activities; and to be persistent,” he re-marks. “They also develop confidence and self-esteem.” Although most of his lessons are private, Ward provides group instruction for ages 9 to 13. He also repairs guitars and teaches classes in basic guitar care and maintenance for beginners. Twice a year, he helps host a concert for students through one of the studios where he teaches, providing the opportunity for students to perform together. “I never get tired of seeing kids become really great musicians,” he quips. “They go from no confidence to having this really great skill they can hang their hat on. I’ve seen kids make amazing transformations.”

For more information, call 518-369-6365 or visit MikeWardGuitar.com. See ad, page 26.

Michael Ward Spreads the Joy of Playing Music

by Beth Davis

Michael Ward


wisewords

To listen to Eckhart Tolle is to be remind-ed that anything is

possible—for anyone. We’re not talking about living a life of lei-sure, filled with expensive cars, beach homes and extravagant vacations, but an experience brimming with the kind of spiritual insights that make this life not only worth living, but decidedly more fulfilling. The problem is that when people hear the words “spiritual insight”, there’s often an assumption that it’s about something too ethereal to be practical or too elusive to be achieved in this lifetime. This is exactly the point that Tolle, one of the world’s most well-known spiritual teachers and authors, rebuffed during a talk earlier this year at Califor-nia’s Stanford University. “Some people awaken spiritu-ally without ever coming into contact with any meditation technique or any spiritual teaching,” he said. “They may awaken simply because they can’t stand the suffering anymore.” He went on to cite examples of those that have either been told they have a short time to live or have been given an exceptionally long prison sentence. In both cases, any thought of a future has been effectively dashed, forcing these individuals into what Tolle describes as an intense awareness that there is only the present moment, with no more future to escape into mentally. The result is a lot less suffering. “That is the real spiritual awaken-ing, when something emerges from within you that is deeper than who you thought you were,” says Tolle. “So, the

Humanity’s Eternal QuestEckhart Tolle on

the Kingdom of Heaven Withinby Eric Nelson

person is still there, but one could almost say that something more powerful shines through the person.” The good news, ac-cording to Tolle, is that in order to experience this awakening, “You don’t have to wait for the diag-nosis by the doctor or to be put in prison… nor do you have to do 30,000 hours of meditation or

live in an ashram for 20 years. Once you get a glimpse of it, you can invite it into your daily life.” For a growing number of people, it’s this understanding of the always present “spiritual you” shining through that has led to significant improvements in their lives, not the least of which is better health. This would seem to indi-cate that these kinds of spiritual insights aren’t the least bit ethereal or elusive, but decidedly practical. “Spirituality and religion belong in the healing paradigm,” writes Airdre Grant, Ph.D., of Australia’s Southern Cross University, in a study published in the Journal of the Australian Traditional- Medicine Society. “They are determi-nants of health and they are factors in recovery, well-being and longevity.” So where do these insights come from? Is it simply a matter of wishful thinking? Or is it perhaps something more reliable, more effective than that? “Jesus said, ‘The kingdom of heaven is within you,’” observes Tolle, implying that this health-inducing understanding may be a lot closer than we thought. “I think if he lived nowadays, instead of ‘kingdom’, he would have said, ‘dimen-sion’. And ‘heaven’ refers to a sense of vastness or spaciousness. So if we re-

phot

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Dav

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lling

sen


translate the words of Jesus into modern terms, [it would be] ‘the dimension of spaciousness is within you.’” “And then Jesus said—when they asked him, ‘Where is the kingdom of heaven and when is it going to come?’— he said, ‘The kingdom of heaven does not come with signs to be perceived. You cannot say, ah, it’s over there or look, it’s over there, for I tell you the kingdom of heaven is within you.’” How comforting it is to be re-minded that the proverbial “kingdom of heaven” we’ve been hearing about for at least two millennia—this “dimension of spaciousness”, or what might be char-acterized as the understanding of our true spiritual identity—is “within you.” It’s within us all, here and now. All that remains is the willingness—and the hu-mility—to put this insight into practice.

Eric Nelson is a Christian Science healing practitioner from Los Altos, CA, whose articles on the link between spiritual consciousness and health appear regularly in national online publications. Connect at norcalcs.org.


eventspotlight

Dr. John Foldy, Ph.D., a professor at State University of New York–Al-

bany, and Numinous founder, Bethany Gonyea, MS, are co-researchers on a historic experiment to discover if a col-lective intention of peace is correlated with a lower rate of aggravated assaults in Albany, compared against the past five years. All residents are invited to participate as study subjects. Foldy and Gonyea will analyze crime data to determine the relationship.

Before the study begins, regis-trants will be updated via video blogs about its progress. The study begins at 1 p.m., January 1, with a Catch the Wave concert at Unity Church in Al-bany. The project ends on January 31 at the same location with a closing concert, where participants can share how the study influenced them.

Meditations will be filmed live at Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region and emailed daily in January so that registered participants can do them at home. In her book The Intention Experi-ment, investigative journalist Lynne McTaggart cites research demonstrat-ing that holding peaceful intentions for oneself and others has positive effects on the meditator that include lower-ing blood pressure and pain levels,

increasing optimism and enhancing relationships. Several research stud-ies performed by Maharishi University suggest that when a relatively small group of individuals holds a meditative space, there is often a corresponding calming response on the entire popu-lation. The positive effects reportedly become more robust with a larger number of meditators, so researchers of the Albany Peace Project hope that many citizens will participate. Upon registration, participants are eligible to receive four free gifts: an intentional meditation download; a song inspired by the study and written by singer/songwriter Mark Shepard; a special report entitled, Not All Medi-tations Are Equal: Choose The Right Meditation For You; and a free copy of Foldy’s book, The Primacy Model of Consciousness.

To register, visit AlbanyPeaceProject.com.

Albany Peace Project to Commence on New Year’s Day


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

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29Trains & Toys Holiday Exhibit Opens – 9am. The model trains are back at MiSci this holiday season. In addition to the trains, play a favorite song on the huge walk-on piano, build a giant playhouse out of Lego-like bricks, and lots more. Free with admission. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. 518-382-7890.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3038th Annual Craft Marketplace – 10am-4:30pm. Over 100 crafters offering unique creations includ-ing pottery, stained glass, quilts and much more. All proceeds benefit the Saratoga Center for the Family. $4. Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Craft Fair Chair, Ann: 518-587-7244.Tribal Fusion Belly Dance Introductory Work-shop – 11am-1pm. Fun and power-packed intro to a modern style of belly dance. Learn the basics, explore new dimensions in movement and discover muscles. Women only; beginners welcome. $15. Nataraja, 1471 Rte 9, Ste 102, Clifton Park. Must pre-register online. 518-336-5506.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18th Annual Chocolate Expo & Holiday Gift Mar-ket – 11am-4:30pm. Indulge that sweet tooth, stroll through the galleries featuring a selection of locally crafted chocolates, confections, specialty foods, jewelry, body products and more. $3 (cash only). 222 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-474-5877.Metaphysical Book Discussion Group – 6pm. Discussion of The Art of Being by Dennis Merritt Jones. Hosted by New Thought New York and of-fered on a love offering basis. Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs. 518-423-3569.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2New Beginnings Meditation Course – 6-7:30pm. Learn to see and experience yourself filled with the positive energy of peace and love. Bring happiness

back into life, no matter what is happening. Establish and strengthen a relationship with the source of all goodness. Free. Peace Village, 54 O’Hara Rd (at Rte 23A), Haines Falls. 518-589-5000.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3Open Beginner Night of Nia Dance – 6-7pm. Learn the basic Nia moves to get started and begin connecting to the joy and healing of Nia Dance. No experience necessary. Relaxed, comfortable studio. Space limited. $5. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. RSVP to Instructor, Beth Foster: 518-452-3679.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5Holistic Moms Network: Holiday Crafting Night – 6pm. Crafting for the holidays or need a couple more hours to finish those gifts? Enjoy a holiday craft night and some chatting with other like-minded moms. Kids are always welcome at meetings, but please be mindful of the presenter and others’ ex-periences as well. Saratoga Springs Public Library (Dutcher Room), 49 Henry St, Saratoga Springs. [email protected] Prowl – 6:30-8pm. Enjoy a night hike and learn about the habits of these nocturnal birds while listen-ing for their calls. Remember to dress warmly and be prepared for a 1-mile hike over rolling terrain. For all

ages. $3/person, $5/family, free/5 and under. Arrive early to purchase tickets. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Rd, Albany. 518-456-0655.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6Annual Open House – 4-8pm. Balance Massage Studio in Delmar celebrates the start of its 13th year in business with a one-night sale and refreshments. Donate a non-perishable food item and receive a complimentary massage. Proceeds benefit the Bethlehem Food Pantry. Balance Massage Studio, 316 Delaware Ave, Ste 25, Delmar. 518-475-9999.Family Holiday Tea Party – 6pm. Includes dinner, dancing, dessert, pictures and more. Only 10 tables are available for this special event. Tiny Tots Tea Room, 1536 Crescent Rd, Clifton Park. Register: Sari; 518-348-1050.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 – SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Leading from the Heart Retreat – Explore the rich resources at the core of your being and turn these resources into new patterns of action. With a deeper awareness of the self, take the courageous steps of living your beliefs and val-ues. Peace Village, 54 O’Hara Rd (at Rte 23A), Haines Falls. Peace Village operates entirely on voluntary contributions. Call for more details: 518-589-5000. PeaceVillageRetreat.org

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7Holiday Open House at Jean’s Greens – 10am-3pm. Kickoff holiday shopping at Jean’s Greens. Enjoy refreshments, meet the staff, and enter to win a gift basket full of goodies. 1545 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack. 518-479-0471.Masters, Saints & Angels – 1-4pm. Brenda Jenks, Instructor, will hold an intimate meeting with higher beings that are working for your well-being. Learn about what their role is and receive a personal mes-sage from one or more. $45. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.2nd Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater 5K Run – 8:30-11:30am/10am run. All proceeds benefit Gateway House of Peace, a charitable hospice. First 100 pre-registered participants receive a T-shirt. Pre-Register $25/$30 day of race. Town of Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd, Ballston Spa. Questions: Anna Stanko; 518-884-9425.


SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8Troy Victorian Stroll – 11am-5pm. The streets of historic downtown Troy will come alive with holi-day splendor for this annual festival. Enjoy a day of shopping, dining, family activities, music and more. Details: VictorianStroll.com.Holiday Open House at Community Massage & Holistic Therapies – 12-5pm. Stop in for chair massage, hot mulled cider and snacks, and a raffle. 255 River St, Lower Level Troy. More information: Kathleen at 518-272-1400.Potluck and Movie Night – 5:15pm dinner/6pm movie. Enjoy the delightful Spiritual Cinema flick Nativity, followed by discussion. Offered on a love offering basis. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton, 518-423-3569.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9Natural Remedies for Stress Relief & Winter Blues – 6:30-7:30pm. Learn how naturopathic modalities (including nutrition, herbs, homeopathy and more) may help with stress and depression with Dr. Amy Cole, Naturopathic Doctor. Karen Defazio LVT, LMT, will also be presenting on essential oils that may be used to ease anxiety and beat the winter blues. Free. The Fitness Coach, 43 Mall, West Sand Lake. RSVP 518-791-4587.New World Holiday with Ric Orlando – 6:30-7:30pm. Chef Ric will share his flair for fusion cooking and a love of global cuisine to bring a new twist to holiday classics like potato latkes, Chipotle applesauce and Figgy pudding. $69. Different Drum-mer’s Kitchen, Stuyvesant Plaza, Rte 20/Western Ave, Albany. Pre-registration required: 518-459-7990.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10Tea Talk – 6pm. Learn about different types of tea and how to brew the perfect cup. Special samples for participants. $5. Short & Stout Tea, 1736 A Western Ave, Albany. Registration required: 518-456-TEAS (8327).Spiritual Living Circle – 6:30 pm. Join for a dis-cussion on the November and December issues of Science of Mind magazine. A love offering basis. Ask about a free 60-day online subscription to Sci-ence of Mind magazine. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton. 518-423-3569.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13Sound Meditation Group – 6:30-8pm. Sound (vibration) is a powerful form of healing. In a group

setting, experience the benefits of sound meditation by practicing mantras from various traditions. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13Sacred Vibrational Healing Circle –7-9pm. Experience the new Yoga of Sound to awaken the master within. Facilitated by Henrik Cervin & Cynthia Peters. You’re invited to this evening of inspirational sharing, ancient Mayan movements, holographic sound healing and light body activa-tions. $20. The Mandala Room, 596 New Loudon Rd, Newton Plaza, Latham, (behind Starbucks). More info: 720-273-7390.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14Christmas Service at Divine Harmony Spiritual-ist Church – 4:30-6pm. Special Christmas service including music, healing, laughter and spirit mes-sages followed by a festive social hour. Children’s activities will be held during the service; family friendly congregation. Divine Harmony meets at the Fellowship Hall of the Niskayuna Reformed Church, 3041 Troy Schenectady Rd, Niskayuna. Rev. Kelly M. Ballard; 518-213-4724.Kirtan with Chandrika – 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 is needed. Sing, dance or lie down and relax, allowing the waves of song to wash over you. Kids welcome with supervi-sion. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15Open Mic Poetry & Prose – 2pm. Hosted by Nancy Klepsch and Dan Wilcox, this is one of the Capital Region’s best open mic venues for poetry and spo-ken word. Bring friends and prose for performance. Free. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. For details: 518-273-0552.Spirit Cafe: A Gathering for Spiritual Practice – 4:30-6pm. Gather with others for the purpose of seeking truth. This can involve meditation, listen-ing to or reading spiritual texts or teachings, and speaking or singing mantras and prayers. All faiths embraced. $10. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. 518-450-1624.Meditation for World Peace – 6:30-7:30pm. Fill the universe with the energy of lightness, radiance and peace. Together, send peace, love and caring to the entire world. For new and experienced medita-tors alike. Free. Peace Village, 54 O’Hara Rd (at Rte 23A), Haines Falls: 518-589-5000.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16Feng Shui Class – 7-10pm. Instructor, Laura Lee Ross talks about how to balance the energy of your home or other space, and in turn how to balance the energy of your life. Bring a floor plan or ideas. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. 518-482-2667.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17Releasing Weight Monthly Group Sessions – 7:30-8:30pm. Learn how to make permanent chang-es in life and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other proven techniques are used in a group setting. Topics such as emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits are also ad-dressed. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd ,Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18Shop and Sip – 4-7pm. Get shopping done in time for the holidays while enjoying a cup of tea at Short & Stout. Gift baskets, jewelry and accessories from Stella & Dot, cosmetics and wellness products from Arbonne, and photography by Joe Johnson and Theresa Smolen. Short & Stout Tea, 1736 A Western Ave, Albany. 518-456-TEAS (8327).Winter Solstice Celebration – 6:30-8:30pm. Take a break from the busy holiday season and enjoy an eve-ning of drumming and healing. Renew yourself while welcoming in the winter season. Presented by Zelda Ho-taling. Space is limited. RSVP required: 518-479-0471. Jean’s Greens, 1545 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21Breakfast with Santa – Thru Sun Dec 22. 9am-12pm each day. Join Santa for a delicious farmhouse-style breakfast at Goold Orchards and tell him what you’d like under the tree. The bakery will be open offering cider donuts, pies and home-made breads. Be sure to bring a camera. $9/adults, $4/4-11yrs, and free/children under 3yrs. Goold Orchard, 1297 Brookview Station Rd, Castledon. Reservations are required: 518-732-7317.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 23American Red Cross Blood Drive – 1-6pm. Do-nation types: double-red cells, blood. Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 400 Old Loudon Rd, Latham.1-800-RED-CROSS.An American Christmas – 7:30pm. Capital Com-munity Voices, a four-part (SATB) choral ensemble directed by Julie Panke, presents its annual holiday concert. Genet School, 29 Englewood Ave, East Greenbush. General Seating. $10 Adults/$8 Students & Seniors.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 30Monthly Restorative Yoga – 6-7:30pm. Restor-ative yoga is passive stretching that uses props like blankets, bolsters, pillows and blocks to support the body as very gentle poses are held. This is a great way to unwind, restore, meditate and rejuvenate. Space limited to 10. $15. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31First Night Saratoga – 5pm-12am.The largest New Year’s Eve event in New York State outside of NYC. Fun for the whole family. $15/button. Visit Saratoga-Arts.org for complete schedule. Saratoga Arts at 518-584-4132.New Year’s Eve Camp-In at MiSci – Dec 31, 8pm thru 11am, Jan 1. Family fun including a scavenger hunt, planetarium show, hands-on activities and exhibit hall access. Bring all necessary toiletries and sleeping gear to be comfortable on the museum floor. Tickets: $96/child. Museum of Innovation & Science, Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. Reg-istration required: 518-382-7890 x 237.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12Reiki Level I Class – 9am-5pm. Learn this won-derful lifetime-healing technique that decreases stress and maintains health and wellness. Class limited to 6 students. $175 plus $20 for manual. The Art of Reiki, 251 River St, Ste 401. Regis-tration and advanced deposit required: Joyce, 518-271-7802.

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

dailyLocal Art Show at Community Massage – 11am-7pm, Mon-Fri (call for Sat hours). Explore a con-tinually changing exhibit of local artists’ works in a peaceful and unique gallery setting. Community Massage & Holistic Therapies, 255 River St, Troy. Kathleen: 518-272-1400.Visit Peace Village – 9am-6pm. Peace Village is where relaxation comes easily. People visit to learn new things about themselves, enjoy silence and solitude, and fi nd peace of mind. Meet others interested in integrating a spiritual dimension into life. Tours available daily. Peace Village, 54 O’Hara Rd (at Rte 23A), Haines Falls. Please call ahead: 518-589-5000.

sundayGuided Yoga & Meditation Practices – 8-9:30am. First Unitarian Society of Schenectady, Free. 1221 Wendell Ave, Schenectady. More info: 518-374-4446.Dharma Meditation – 9am. Meditation followed up by a short discussion every Sunday morning for about 75 mins. All contemplative traditions are honored. $10 suggested donation. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. 518-450-1624.Young Audience Planetarium Show: Visit to the Moon – 10am & 1pm. Have you ever looked at the full moon and wondered? Wondered what it was made of and what it looked like up close? This intro planetarium program guides young visitors on an exploration of the Moon. Recommended for young audiences. Admission plus $5. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. 518-382-7890.Sunday Morning Nia Dance – 10-11am. Start the week off energized and refreshed as you joyfully free your spirit and move with passion, connecting to your body through the movement of Nia Dance. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. $18/class. Call Beth: 518-452-3679.Dr. Joe on the Radio – 12:45pm. Dr. Joseph Guylas of Northeast Spine & Wellness gives his weekly radio show including tips for better health. Tune in to 101.3 FM. Medium, Psychic or Animal Communication Readings – Walk-ins welcome but appointments

suggested. $45/30 mins, $90/60 mins. Peaceful Inspi-rations, 384 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. 518-439-7039.

mondayHot Warrior Yoga – 6pm. This 50+ posture practice combines the best of hot hatha and hot Vinyasa in an 85-degree room to challenge you physically and psychologically to be at one with your inner warrior. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. 518-369-8325.Meditation by Donation – 6-7pm. Basic medita-tion instruction and introduction to the format of Zazen practice. Includes two 20-30-minute sitting meditations, a short walking meditation and chant-ing. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd. Albany. Register: 518-595-3067.

tuesdayHappy Babble Baby Signing – 10am. Thru Dec 10. This class provides a playful environment where parents or caregivers and their hearing children learn ASL signs and research-proven Signing Smart Strategies while playing and interacting. Ideal for children 6 to 24 months. Drop- ins welcome for $15/class + $40 for materials. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Register: 518-813-9290.Body Fat Screening/Blood Pressure Testing – 11am-2pm. Personal Trainer Jeff Grayson Miller has the necessary instruments to test body fat and blood pressure and the know-how to translate those numbers into information about your health. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. 518-482-2667.Lyme Support Group – 6pm, 2nd Tues. Share stories, frustrations, achievements while fi nding sup-port and guidance. Family and friends are welcome. Free. The Stram Center for Integrative Medicine, 388 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. Register: 518 689-2244.Awareness Through Movement® for EveryBODY – 6:30-7:30pm. Each class guides you through a series of gentle movement sequences that create immediate improvements in personal awareness, posture, balance and fl exibility. $15. Conscious Movements, 130 Everett Rd. Albany. Registration required, 518-629-5664.Hypnosis Workshop – 6:30-9:30pm. Ever wonder

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how hypnosis can help you? Would you like to hyp-notize? Find out more with NGH hypnosis instruc-tor, George Guarino. $12.50. Albany, 518-256-6549.

wednesdayAwareness Through Movement for Moms & More – 9:30-10:30am. Gentle movements designed to help you feel better and give you the breathing space you need as an active mother. $15. Conscious Movements, 130 Everett Rd. Albany. Registration Required: 518-629-5664Detox Flow with Colleen – 4:15-5:30pm. Twists, massage and conscious breathing will assist your elimination systems – circulatory, digestive and lymph. Also purge toxic thoughts by moving aware-ness from chaos to present moment for a calmer mind. Enjoy a clearer connection of body, mind and spirit. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. 518-369-8325.Family Support Group for Caregivers of Loved Ones with Mental Illness – 6:30-8pm, 1st & 3rd Wed, SUNYA School of Public Health, 1 University Pl, Rensselaer. Information: Mary Beth Honsinger, National Alliance on Mental Illness-Rensselaer County: 518-588-6949.Guided Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Practice and experience the deep state of meditation. These sessions serve as an introduction for beginners as well as a practice for experienced individuals in the cultivation of clarity and mindfulness. Free. The Stram Center for Integrative Health & Healing, 388 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. 518-689-2244.

thursdayHealth Coaching – 11am-2pm. Health Coach Edith Murray encourages and empowers you to take re-sponsibility for overall health and well-being. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. 518-482-2667.Awareness Through Movement For Chronic Pain – 12-1pm. This class is designed specifically for those who experience chronic pain. Complete with a series of gentle movement sequences, mind-fulness practices, and a supportive community. Space limited to five participants. $15. Conscious Movements, 130 Everett Rd. Albany. Registration Required: 518-629-5664.

fridayKundalini Yoga – 9:30-11am. Taught by Yogi Bhajan, Kim Rossi. Classes offered by donation. Lincoln Bath House at the Saratoga Spa State Park. Enter through front door and walk to the rear of the first floor. 39 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs. 518-321-5660.Hot Warrior Yoga – 5:30pm. This 50+ posture practice combines the best of hot hatha and hot Vinyasa in an 85-degree room to challenge you physically and psychologically to be one with your inner warrior. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. 518-369-8325.Free Reiki – 6pm. 1st Fri. Energy healers and Reiki practitioners work together to help balance and

regenerate those that attend. Free. Venture Inward, 568 Columbia Trpk, East Greenbush. 518-477-6566.Open Message Circle – 7:30pm. Many people receive messages, impressions and communications from spirit loved ones and friends. $10. Doors close at 7:35pm. Holistic Studies Institute, 1510 Central Ave, Ste 375, Albany. 518-464-6200.Sacred Drum Circle – 7:30pm, 1st Fri. Gather in a circle, light a candle for your intention, and let your heart guide you into the heartbeat rhythm. Drum-ming is very healing and can be a powerful sound meditation. No experience necessary. The Yoga Lily,

1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. RSVP to Pam: 518-744-5565.

saturdayDelmar Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. Indoors Nov-May. Local, organic and natural farm products, baked goods, local and fair trade crafts and music. Bethlehem Central Middle School, 332 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. DelmarMarket.org.The 5 Tibetan Rites of Rejuvenation – 12-12:30pm. A potent system handed down from Tibetan lamas. Five postures with ancient breath repeated 21 times each are reputed to strengthen the body, enhance energy, regenerate body and mind, and stem the aging process. $8. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. 518-369-8325.Feature Planetarium Show: ’Tis the Season – 2pm. Light up the cold, dark winter with a bright holiday show which traces the history and develop-ment of holiday customs and cultural celebrations. This show includes a live presentation about the winter night sky. Admission plus $5. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. 518-382-7890. Medium, Psychic or Animal Communication Readings – Walk-ins welcome, but appointments suggested. $45/30mins, $90/60mins. Peaceful Inspi-rations, 384 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. 518-439-7039.

A n individual has not started living until he can rise above

the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the

broader concerns of all humanity.

~ Martin Luther King Jr.


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

ACUPUNCTURE

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

All-natural care providing pain relief and wellness care through acupuncture, massage therapy, laser therapy and acupressure. Experience in women’s health, insomnia, stress, migraines and fi bromyalgia. See ad, page 13.

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 36.

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 moralities. See ad, page 7.

GOOD MEDICINE: MYOFASCIAL BODYWORKAbi’l-Khayr, [email protected]

Myofascial Bodywork is a gentle and effective form of hands-on therapy. This technique provides profound relaxation, and relief from most forms of chronic pain. Locations in Albany, Troy & Malta. See ad, page 13.

CHIROPRACTIC

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

Dr. Gulyas is a 25-year veteran of holistic health. A graduate of Skidmore College and New York Chiropractic College, Dr. Gulyas received the dist inction as Clinician of the Year during his internship at Greenvale Outpatient Facility. See ad, page 13.

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

Dr. Medwin has been working as a chiropractor for over nine years and has established caring and compassionate relationships with each and every one of her patients. See ad, page 36.

ENERGY HEALING

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

Joyce brings to her Reiki practice her knowledge and experience in dealing with chronic and acute health issues as well as her passion for focusing on the health and wellness of the individual. See ad, page 11.

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

Over 20 years of energy healing experience. Jack uses among the most advanced, deep and powerful techniques in the area to help clients feel better and achieve balance. Practicing in Clifton Park and Saratoga. See ad, page 14.

naturaldirectory LYNN NEALInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Lynn is a certifi ed fi tness instructor, healing touch practitioner and Reiki II practitioner. She also teaches energy yoga classes. See ad, page 26.

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

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

FAMLY FUN

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

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

FITNESS

REBECCA RIFENBERG, M.ED. Inspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Certified instructor of Group Fitness, Ballettone, Kettlebell and Group Cycling. Licensed Zumba instructor. Rebecca maintains two master’s degrees in education and has extensive experience in designing fitness and exercise programs. See ad, page 26.

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 ages and levels. See ad, page 26.


GREEN LIVING

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

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

affordable and locally owned.

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

Specializing in green home renovation for families and businesses. Supplier of non-toxic interior finishes for walls, floors, counter tops. Showroom features natural and organic mattresses, and bedding. See ad, page 32.

LUCID LIGHT AT ARTIQUE1536 Crescent Rd, Clifton Park131 Colonie Center, Albany518-724-0750 • ArtiqueShopping.com

Lucid Light at Artique Co-op prov ides eco - f r i end ly solutions for the mind, body and home. Unique and s t y l i s h s e l e c t i o n o f inspirational gifts, décor and

fashion accessories made with recycled, reused and natural materials. See ad, page 31.

GROCERY

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

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

1995. See ad, page 15.

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

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

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

HEALING

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

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

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

C e r t i f i e d H e a l i n g To u c h 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.

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 12.

HOLISTIC HEALTH COUNSELING

LISAMARIE TERSIGNI, CHHC, AADPInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

LisaMarie unites her education in nutrition, counseling and healing arts with 25 years of workers’ compensa t ion hea l th ca re experience to develop sustainable multidisciplinary wellness and fitness programs. Specialties:

cancer patients, perimenopause and weight concerns; men and women. See ad, page 26.

editorial calendar2014JANUARY

health & wellness plus: health coaches

FEBRUARYrethinking heart health

plus: stress relief

MARCHfood & garden

plus: gluten-free foods

APRILgreen living

plus: healthy home

MAYwomen’s wellness

plus: bodywork

JUNEinspired living

plus: men’s wellness

JULYfood watch

plus: natural medicine cabinet

AUGUSTtransformative education

plus: children’s health

SEPTEMBERconscious caretaking

plus: yoga

OCTOBERsustainable communities

plus: chiropractic and acupuncture

NOVEMBERpersonal empowerment

plus: beauty

DECEMBERawakening humanityplus: holiday themes


INTUITIVE COUNSELING

READINGS FROM THE LIGHTPaula Marie [email protected]

Offering intuitive readings to deepen inspiration and divine guidance on your spiritual journey. Serving the Capital District and beyond. See ad, page 35.

LIFE COACH

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

Personalized, inspirat ional coaching to joyfully move you in the direction of your dreams. Start living the life you want to lead today; because life is more than a four-letter word. See ad, page 7.

LIFE PURPOSE

WOMEN’S HEALTH & HEALINGCarol Gardner, RN, MSCarolGardner.whh@gmail.com518-312-8791WomensHealthAndHealing.com

Coaching women to effectively discover strength and wisdom to support the body, mind and spirit; especially during life changes including retirement, divorce, chronic illness, grief and loss. See ad, page 25.

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.

HYPNOSIS

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

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

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 8.

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

Scientifi c hand analysis is a system that can give you profound insight about yourself from the markings in your hands. See ad, page 32.

MASSAGE

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

The Capital District’s standard in therapeutic massage. Providing the latest in clinically proven therapies and delivering the highest level of quality service to our clients. See ad, page 36.

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

Therapeutic massage, bodywork, energy work, personal training and life coaching. 16 years of experience helping clients eliminate pain, optimize recovery and maximize performance. See ad, page 11.

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

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

environment. Wellness packages, Young Living Oils, Aromatherapy Products. See ad, page 17.

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

Offering therapeutic massage, myofascial bodywork, craniosacral t h e r a p y a n d r e f l e x o l o g y, individually customized in a profess iona l and peacefu l atmosphere, enhanced with local art and natural foliage. Relax and

renew at your urban oasis. See ad, page 8.

Hit the high notes.

Mozart

GREAT MUSIC


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

Regina is an NYS licensed massage therapist, registered yoga teacher, personal trainer and spinning instructor with years of successful experience in healing arts and fi tness. See ad, page 26.

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 29.

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

At Sage-Femme Midwifery, we believe women should be empowered to create their own birth experiences as well as be educated to be actively involved in decision making and self-care. Kelly has been serving the Capital District since 1987.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

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

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

Studio (North Greenbush). See ad, page 26.

NATURAL BEAUTY

NYR ORGANICLisa Small, Independent Consultant/[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.

WAKEUP WITH MAKEUPLaura Spratt518-688-1490AwakeUpWithMakeup.com

Permanent makeup using organic, hypo-allergenic pigments. Areola pigmentation and scar camoufl age. Eyebrows, eyeliner, lips. Now you can have the confidence of knowing you look your very best every morning, without having

done a thing. See ad, page 35.

NATURAL MATERNITY/BABY

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

Eco-friendly baby and maternity boutique. Babywearing, toys

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

NATUROPATH

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

P r o v i d i n g n a t u r o p a t h i c consultation integrating science and nature. Plans include nutrition, h e r b s , h o m e o p a t h y a n d hydrotherapy. Exploring all aspects of a person including mind, body and spirit.

NEW AGE RETAIL

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

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

PEACEFUL INSPIRATIONS384 Kenwood Ave, Delmar518-439-7039PeacefulInspirations.net

Your local, holistic and wellness store dedicated to enriching the spirit, mind and body. Gifts for all ages, workshops and Psychic, Crossover (Medium) and Intuitive Animal Communication readings available by appointment. See ad, page 34.

NUTRITION COACH

DAVID SPINA, RPHInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Holistic health, lifestyle and nutrition coach with extensive experience in the pharmacy fi eld. Specializing in the needs of men in mid-life and weight concerns for men and women. See ad, page 26.


SPECIALTY TEAS

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

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

SPIRITUAL CENTER

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

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

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

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

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

PILATES

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

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

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY

BRYON KOSHGARIAN, PHDInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Bryon is a psychotherapist and spiritual counselor specializing in stress and anxiety disorders, PTSD, bereavement, depression and spiritual concerns. See ad, page 26.

SOMATIC PRACTITIONERS

CONSCIOUS MOVEMENTSBuffy Owens, Feldenkrais MethodAt Albany Total Wellness130 Everett Rd, Albany518-629-5664ConsciousMovements.com

Offering group classes and private sessions for those interested in meditation & mindfulness, women moving through pregnancy and for families who have children with special needs & extraordinary gifts. See ad, page 36.

ORGANIC SALON

PURE ELEMENTSAN ORGANIC SALON & WELLNESS SHOP1724-1728 Western Ave, Albany518-608-5405 or 518-621-7984Pure-Elements-Salon.com

Providing a healthy alternative to the traditional salon and spa experience using only the highest quality natural and organic products in our services. Let us help you look beautiful and feel your best while nurturing your health. See ad, page 3.

ORGANIC SPA

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

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

branded organic health and beauty products, too. See ad, page 16.

PET CARE

THE PAMPERED PET415 US Hwy 9, Schodack Landing 518-732-2724 • [email protected]

We love pets and are certain your cat or dog will leave our salon happy, healthy and looking great. Holistic pet food also available. See ad, page 29.


classifiedsFor fees and info on placing classifieds, email [email protected]. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

THERMOGRAPHY

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY FOR HEALTHPatricia 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.

WELLNESS

INSPIRING WELLNESS SOLUTIONS1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Specializing in disease prevention and management, Inspiring Wellness Solutions offers Corporate Wellness Programs, Individual Counseling and Group Nutrition Coaching to support their clients to live a healthy and fit lifestyle. See ad, page 26.

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

Full-service wellness facilities offering non-drug solutions for your health care concerns. Our practitioners each have over 25 years experience in the field of holistic health. See ad, page 13.

WORKSHOPS/RETREATS

BONA FIDE BUTTERFLIES518-532-0275BonafideButterflies.com

Empowering workshops and rejuvenating retreats for women. Unveil your authentic self, explore your dreams and create the joyful life you were meant to live. Workshops held in the

Adirondacks or at your location. It’s time to spread your wings.

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

One Big Roof is a spacious retreat and workshop center in the heart of Saratoga. Join others at tending or

leading mind/body/spirit events for improved health and well-being. See ongoing 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.

YOGA

IRENE (RENIE) CRONINInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Renie is a certified yoga instructor who teaches beginner and exper ienced yoga c lasses , specializing in alignment and mind, body, spirit principles. See ad, page 26.

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. See ad, page 36.

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

Registered yoga instructors offering: Hatha, Kundalini, S w a r o o p a , G e n t l e & Restorative, Tantra, and

Bhakti yoga and meditations for all levels.

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

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

in their yoga experience. See ad, page 19.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITYDISTRIBUTORS WANTED – Rapidly growing company seeks ambitious individuals to locally distribute the new stainless steel, in-home purifier, Water Bright. Direct from the West Coast, this revolutionary product promotes green living by eliminating the need for bottled water. Be your own boss and enjoy huge earning potential. Call Beradene: 518-423-4092.

FIREWOODFIREWOOD – Hardwood, seasoned. Free delivery in the Capital District. $110/face cord. 518-391-5294.

HELP WANTEDDÉJÀ VU, COLONIE – Hiring Sales Associates. Must be 18 or older. Wolf Road Shoppers Park, Albany. 518-459-6495.

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

PET CAREHOMEMADE DOG TREATS – Healthy ingredients from chicken and beef broth to carrots and apples. 518-379-8514. JessicasHomemadePetTreats.weebly.com..

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

SPACE FOR RENTRECENTLY RENOVATED RETAIL SPACE FOR LEASE – Open floor plan. Located in prime location at busy intersection near Crossgates Mall in Guilderland. 1726 Western Ave, Albany. Tom Carins: 518-466-0726.

VACATION RENTALADIRONDACKS VACATION LOG CABIN RENTAL – 3 bed, 2 bath, fully equipped. Centrally located to Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid or a day trip to Montreal. 1-800-715-1333 x 3292.

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

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – Peaceful Acres Horses needs volunteers to prepare for winter months. Nanci: at 518-887-3178.

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

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Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District - December 2013

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