Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District - March 2014

March 2014 | 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

Martin MironJacqueline Wright

Contributing WriterLauren Hittenger

Contributing PhotographersMother Powered Birth Photography

Pam Slotsky

Design & ProductionStephen BlancettHelene Leininger

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

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letterfrompublisherAs a proud publisher, I truly delight in the

privilege of sharing Natural Awakenings with

our growing healthy living community. In the

six months since the magazine’s birth in the NY

Capital District, I have been blessed to witness the

wonderful support of its arrival and first steps, not

unlike a new mother watching her child mature

and prosper. We’ve already achieved some

notable milestones.

The first distribution of 10,000 copies is now 18,000. Thanks to local

businesses that have welcomed readers in to pick up copies of the magazine,

distribution sites have doubled from 200 to more than 400 locations to date. A

heartfelt “Thank you,” goes out to each reader, advertiser, contributor, distributor

and other supporting presence for sharing this wondrous experience and

becoming an integral, cherished and active part of the family.

I am especially excited about this month’s Women’s Wellness issue, which we

will be passing out to introduce ourselves to new readers at the NY Women’s Expo

March 8 and 9 at Siena College. Beyond the cutting-edge content you’ve come to

expect, we’ve added a bonus with a special pre/postnatal resource guide in this

issue, as well. It resulted from an enthusiastic outpouring of support from the local

birthing community with valuable expertise to share. I trust you will enjoy getting

to know the practitioners we have featured there.

Judging from this month’s calendar and display ads detailing local classes and

events, there should be no lack of things to do as we welcome the arrival of spring

in the Capital District. Like me, I’m sure you are undoubtedly eager to get out in

your garden and lift your face to the sun in inner celebration. Spring is my favorite

time of year because of all the rebirthing that surrounds us and elevates our spirits.

I personally look forward to walking under my neighborhood’s budding trees and

listening to the birds singing a renewed tune. As you make your way through your

busy life, I hope you have made room in your plans for a little inspiration and

internal rebirth of your own.

Each month, our contributors share inspiring tools for personal growth and

creative expression to add to the lift. Why not make someone else’s day as well, by

thanking our advertisers for making this free publication possible and letting them

know it’s how you found them?

If you see me in the park sitting under a tree looking dreamy-eyed as

you’re picnicking this spring, it’s because I feel a bit like Alice in Wonderland,

immersed in a dream, envisioning all the ways that our community is

connecting in positive ways.

Cheers,

Carolyn Coogan, Publisher


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

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

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AlbanyAwakenings.com

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

6 newsbriefs

1 4 healthbriefs

16 globalbriefs

17 ecotip

18 inspiration 19 businessspotlight

20 wisewords 21 creativespotlight

22 consciouseating

28 healthykids

34 community spotlights 41 calendar

47 naturaldirectory

54 classifieds

17 SUSPECT SNIFFS Pleasing Aromas Harbor

Hidden Dangers

18 10 STEPS TO ABUNDANCE

by Carolyn Blakeslee

20 HOW UNCONDITIONAL LOVE HARMONIZES OUR WORLD Marci Shimoff Explores its Transformative Power by Judith Fertig

22 HEALTH RULESCrazy, Sexy, Savvy, Yummy

by Judith Fertig

24 NATURAL BEAUTY — HEAD TO TOE

A Holistic Guide to Looking Your Best by Frances Lefkowitz

28 BABY ON BOARD Preparing for Pregnancy & Motherhood

by Jessica Iclisoy

30 BIRTH OPTIONS FOR PARENTS-TO-BE by Pauline Nardella

33 SAGE-FEMME MIDWIFERY Offering a Comprehensive Menu of Birth-Related Services by Martin Miron

38 PRE/POSTNATAL GUIDE

28

20

22

24

15

17

19 20 21

16


newsbriefsSubjects Needed for Free Pain Treatment

Maccio Physical Therapy, the McKenzie Institute Interna-

tional and the Sage Colleges are co-sponsoring a McKenzie MDT Part B postgraduate course from April 11 to 13 at Sage College (Troy campus) in Gurley Hall, involving the cervical and thoracic spine. Individuals are needed to receive free MDT assessments, performed by MDT faculty, for this class. Mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT) is a classifica-tion system that diagnoses and treats patients with orthopedic impairments. It uses symptomatic and mechanical responses to repeated movement testing to classify patients into syndromes. During treatment, MDT focuses on centralization phenome-non (the reduction of pain further away from the origin of pain) through patients’ directional preference during movement and force progression. This system emphasizes patient education of self-management and prevention of recurrence of pain with avoidance of therapist dependence with minimal intervention. Individuals with pain that are interested in becoming a patient free of charge should call 518-273-2121 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, through April 11, or email [email protected].

For more information, call 518-273-2121 or visit MaccioPhysicalTherapy.com. See ad, page 16.

Kundalini Yoga Workshop

Sat Kriya Kaur, yoga teacher and founder of Kundalini Yoga

Albany, will present Conscious Communication: Find Your Voice, a kundalini yoga and meditation workshop, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., March 15, at Heartspace Yoga and Healing Arts, in Troy. The workshop will focus on

how we communicate, where we communicate from, where we receive communication from others and the practice of listening. It includes a discussion of these topics, a physi-cal kriya (set of exercises) specifically working on the fifth chakra, and several deep meditations to remedy our chal-lenges and help us recognize what we need to work on relat-ing to communication. Kundalini yoga expands awareness, strengthens the body, increases stamina and elevates consciousness through move-ment, powerful pranayam (extension of the life force) and deep meditation. No experience or registration is necessary.

Location: 10 Second St., second fl. For locations and class times, call 518-712-9642, email [email protected] or visit SatKriyaKaur.wix.com/kundaliniyoga. See ad, page 12.


Experience a Rejuvenating Energetic Facial LoveLift

Transformational Specialist Barbra Gil-man is offering a LoveLift class from

11 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 29, in Saratoga Springs for individuals to experience a new and exciting body energy process that is transforming people throughout Europe. Developed by energy healer and pioneer Gary Douglas, it’s a dramatic energetic facelift that rejuvenates and reveals the light within, erasing years of “frozen emotions”, smoothing wrinkles and turning back the clock at any age. By releasing trapped emotional frequencies and lifting these frequencies to allowance and self-love, the facial and neck muscles undergo a dramatic transformation. LoveLift allows people to present their most loving face to the world; a face that reflects peace, aliveness and beauty. There is also a LoveLift Club to do the LoveLift with a friend or two or meet other members to gift and receive the benefits of this dynamic process on a weekly basis. This is a brilliant addition for any beauty therapist’s business, and/or massage therapists wishing to extend it to their clientele.

Cost is $150. Preregister (required) at [email protected]. For more information, call Barbra Gilman at 929-777-0873 or visit BarbraGilman.com or MyLoveLift.com.

Bones, Posture and Balance Workshop for Women

Buffy Owens,

of Conscious Movements, will present a Feldenkrais Bones for Life work-shop entitled Bones. Posture. Balance., with special guest instructor Victo-ria Ahrensdorf, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., April 6, at The Center for Nia & Yoga, in Albany. Ahrensdorf studied directly with Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, the founder of the Feldenkrais Method, and with Ruthy Alon, the founder of Bones for Life. She is bringing her knowledge and experience to the Capital Region for the first time. The workshop is suitable for women of all ages, com-prising a day of gentle, weight-bearing movements that can support bone health, improve posture, enhance balance and impart a sense of lightness and ease that is unique to the Bones for Life and the Feldenkrais Method.

Cost is $90 before Apr. 1, $120 after. Location: 4 Central Ave. For more information, call 518-629-5664 or visit ConsciousMovements.com/bones. See ad, page 16.

Barbra Gilman


newsbriefs

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Make Life Changes with Divine Guidance

Paula Marie Histed, a spiritual intuitive with

more than 10 years of experience, has recently expanded her business in Naples, Florida, to New York’s Capital Region and is available for private read-ings in her studio in Delmar, from June through October and via telephone anytime. She uses her gifts to access the spiritual realm in order to aid clients in mak-ing higher choices in their lives. A reading will help shed light on the highest

potential for a client’s life in all areas, including relation-ships, health, prosperity and spiritual growth. Histed explains, “We are never alone; we always have the assistance of our angels and spirit guides. They come from a place of unconditional love and integrity. They want to help in all areas of our lives, we just need to ask and be open to their guidance. Our future unfolds from the ’now’ and we have free will to make choices in our lives, but a good reading can show you possibilities and pathways to live to our highest potential.”

For more information, call 239-370-7928 or email PaulaMarie444@ aol.com. Visit PaulaMarieHisted.com. See ad, page 17.

Learn About the Renewing Power of Tree Medicine

A Tree Medicine workshop will be held from 10 a.m.

to 4 p.m., April 5, at Powell House, in the Quaker Confer-ence and Retreat Center, in Old Chatham. It will focus on allowing nature to renew us and connect us with the Divine. Participants will learn practical tools for the chal-lenges of life. The presenters are Debra Burger, LMSW, from Albany Lifeworks Center, and Barbara Sinacore, from Albany Quaker Meeting.

Location: 524 Pitt Hall Rd. For registration, call Burger at 518-869-1974, ext. 2, or email [email protected]. Also visit PowellHouse.org for more information.


Great Gardeners Congregate at Symposium

The 11th annual Great Gardens and Land-scaping Symposium will take place on

April 4 and 5 at The Equinox Resort, in Man-chester, Vermont. Six dynamic lectures, a gar-dener’s marketplace, great food, door prizes and gifts will greet more than 200 gardeners from around the Northeast. A special Garden Design workshop from 1 to 4 p.m., April 4, is offered in addition to the symposium. Just some of the featured speakers, horti-cultural experts and notable authors include award-winning gardener David L. Culp, vice president of Sunny Border Nurseries; Thomas Christopher, an expert on sustainable garden-ing practices; Deborah Trickett, owner of The

Captured Garden; Adam R. Wheeler, propagation and new plant development man-ager for Broken Arrow Nursery; and Kerry Ann Mendez, owner of Perennially Yours. Informative, how-to lectures include 50 Perennials I Could Not Live Without; The Layered Garden: Design Lessons for Year-Round Beauty; A Backyard Revolu-tion; Celebrity Pots; Fun with Color—Variegated Foliage in the Garden; and Flashy New Perennials for 2014.

The Workshop is $55 with handouts and refreshments. Overnight packages and day rates are available beginning at $89. For more information and registration details, visit pyours.com/symposium. Also visit EquinoxResort.com.


newsbriefs

Super Sampling Saturday at Niskayuna Co-Op

The Niskayuna Co-Op will hold a Su-

per Saturday Sampling Event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 15, featuring eight local producers. Guests will be able to sample lo-cally produced cheese, granola, coffee, candy or pesto. The event is held on the third Saturday of each month, featuring different gourmet products available exclusively at the Co-Op. The Niskayuna Co-Op is a member-owned supermarket which has served Niskayuna and surrounding communities for more than 60 years with competitive prices and outstand-ing quality. A complete line of organic produce, kosher items and in-store baked goods, prepared fresh daily, are available. Lifetime membership costs $5 to receive discounts, but non-members may shop, as well.

Location: 2227 Nott St., Schenectady. For more information, call 518-374-1362 or visit NiskayunaCo-Op.com. See ad, page 55.

New Movie Night at Total Albany Wellness

Albany Total Wellness has added several

monthly wellness events recently, including a regular movie night, to be held at 7 p.m., March 28, with a screening of the documentary, Food

Matters. The film’s tagline is, “Good health makes a lot of sense, but it doesn’t make a lot of dollars.” Obesity is only one of the myriad ramifications of our industrialized food system. Doctors, scientists, naturopaths and nutritionists all weigh in to show the devastating effects of what we consume not only as “food” but as “medicine”. Of more importance, the types of changes we can make to improve not only our personal health, but also to effect change on a systemic level are highlighted. The practitioners of Albany Total Wellness are comprised of Vitality Acupuncture, Dr. Kerstin Medwin, DC, Albany Massage, Conscious Movements and Inspiring Wellness Solu-tions, LLC. Their goal is to inspire health and wellness within the community by offering regular wellness classes and health celebrations. It is also a drop-in site for Field-Goods.

Admission is free. For more information, call 518-435-1280 or visit AlbanyTotalWellness.com. See ad, page 34.

Healing With Movement Pilates Adds Qigong Class

Healing with Movement Pilates and Albany Qigong

have teamed up to provide a one-hour qigong standing prac-tice class at 9 a.m. on Mondays. The group class emphasizes a challenging health practice that is usually taught only in martial arts academies. The practice of qigong makes individuals stronger and healthier and accel-erates progress in other physical exercise programs. The standing meditation practice is considered to be the most important practice to learn and will be offered along with other complementary qigong practices. It is suitable for all ages and teaches how to manage stress, improve bone health and bring more happiness into life. As a form of gentle exercise, qigong is comprised of move-ments that are typically repeated, strengthening and stretching the body, increasing blood, synovial and lymph fluid movement and improving balance. Steve Cosimano, of Albany Qigong, says, “Those who maintain a consistent practice of qigong find that it helps one regain a youthful vitality, maintain health even into old age and helps speed recovery from illness.”

Cost is $20. Location: Healing With Movement Pilates, 2021 Western Ave., Ste. 106, Albany. For more information, call 518-698-2400 or visit AlbanyQigong.com.


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Experience a Total Transformation in Nine Weeks

A nine-week Total Transfor-mation Program is being

offered at Saratoga Botanicals Organic Wellness Spa & Store beginning April 9 through June 4. An informational meeting will

be held from noon to 1 p.m. and from 6 to 7 p.m., March 13. Benefits of the Total Transformation Program include weight loss or gain; improved digestion; improved memory and concen-tration; increased energy and motivation; and removal of ener-getic blockages and movement through difficult emotional issues. The program is led by Heidi Rasmussen, M.D., with Monique Boulet, a registered dietician, licensed acupuncturists Dr. Anna Burky, M.D., and Caitlin St. George, MS, Nini Gridley, a full spec-trum healing, kripalu teacher, Meredith Shorb, a Yoga Mandali teacher and program guides Franesa Pyle and Nicole Fellini. The Total Transformation Program includes a health evalu-ation, nutritional consultation, yoga package, chakra balancing and meditation work, a monthly massage, acupuncture, support and discounts of 20 percent off all Saratoga Botanicals products and services and specials from other participating vendors.

Location: 80 Henry St., Saratoga Springs. Registration (re-quired) must be completed by Mar. 26 (or Mar. 13 for early bird). For more information, call 518-306-4108 or visit SaratogaBotanicals.com/aboutttp. See ad, page 14.

Choose Investments with a Conscience

For socially and environmentally conscious individuals seeking to

understand how their financial invest-ments align with core personal values and beliefs, Sustainable Wealth Advi-sors, in Saratoga Springs, is offering a complimentary assess-ment of up to three investment holdings through April 15. Owner/Founder Harry Moran is a 27-year veteran of the financial advisory profession. He opened Sustainable Wealth Advisors in September 2011, and his goal is to have a positive impact in the lives of his clients, especially those who might otherwise be too busy to fully focus on their finances or who feel they might have to compromise their values to achieve financial security. Moran uses his extensive social research re-sources to educate clients about how their holdings mesh with their preferences in relation to the social and environmental issues they hold to be important. New clients will also receive a free copy of Investing with Your Values, by Hall Brill, Jack Brill and Cliff Feigenbaum, through April 15.

Harry Moran is a member of the Impact Investing Division of Portfolio Resources Group, Inc., member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB and SIFMA. For more information, call Moran at 518-450-1755 or visit SustainableWealthAdvisors.com. See ad, page 26.


newsbriefs

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Early Bird Registration Open for Yoga Retreat on Lake George

Pam Lunz Medina, E-RYT, and owner of The Yoga Lily of Clifton

Park, will be hosting a retreat from July 18 to 20 at Wiawaka Holiday House for Women, located on beautiful Lake George, New York. Replenish, Relinquish, Rejoice is the theme of this heavenly week-end of yoga, meditation, self-rever-ence and celebration. Discounted early bird registration has begun and continues through April 1. Medina is a spiritual activ-ist, yogini and soul adventurer. She will guide participants on a journey to nourish their bod-ies, remember who they are and relish their souls with restorative, yin, moderate and fluid dancing yoga workshops, journaling, a sacred fire ceremony, live music and special guest teachers. Walk through the labyrinth, hike nature trails, savor the lake or relax on a screened porch. Wiawaka Holiday House is a retreat center created for women by women, offering affordable respite time for woman to restore themselves from their busy over-worked lives.

Cost for the weekend w/meals and accommodations is $370/$170 w/o meals and accommodations. Early bird registration before Apr. 1 is $345/$145. For reservations, call 518-668-9690. For more in-formation, visit TheYogaLily.com/retreats.html and Wiawaka.org. See ad, page 36.

A Special Day of Renewal in Cohoes

Inspiring Wellness Solutions, LLC, will hold a daylong retreat—A day to Recharge & Rejuvenate—on April 6. This

delightful day begins with gentle vinyasa yoga and continues with a class on natural wellness through healthy nutrition and a delicious, nutritious lunch. Participants will discover how to infuse joy and satisfac-tion into their lives through the Circle of Life and learn what love language they speak. There will also be a Nia Move-ment dance class, chair massage by a licensed massage therapist, Reiki treatments by certified Reiki masters and a gift bag from Mary Kay.

Cost is $90 (limited to 10 participants). Location: The Lounge, The Lofts at Harmony Mills, 100 N. Mohawk St., in Cohoes. To register, call LisaMarie Tersigni at 888-581-5526. Visit InspiringWellnessSolutions.com. See ad, page 15.


Utilize Hypnosis for Weight Loss

Key 2 Joy is offering a free half-hour screening

to determine if hypnosis is the right solution for each individual and 30 percent off a customized weight-loss hypnosis package

during the month of March. Day, night and weekend hours are available. Key 2 Joy, Inc., specializes in hypnosis to help unlock the door to a life of balance, health and joy. They have been providing hypnosis services since 2008 and helped hun-dreds of people to lose weight and become healthier. Founder Shannon Keyes is a certified hypnotist, registered yoga instructor, Reiki master/teacher, certified tantric educa-tor, sound healer and ordained minister. She says, “Start now and meet summer in a swimsuit, comfortable and confident! Key 2 Joy specializes in hypnosis to aid you in the releas-ing weight easily. Hypnosis is a safe, effective way to release weight that holds you back from being the healthy vibrant person you were born to be. No shakes, no supplements, no surgery, no hassle!” Other services can stop smoking and release stress.

Location: 145 Vly Rd., Ste. 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. For an appointment, call Keyes at 518-598-6968. Visit Key2Joy.net. See ad, page 11.


healthbriefs MILK LINKED TO ACNETeens with acne might

consider cutting back on milk and other dairy products. Foods with a high-glycemic index (car-bohydrates affecting blood sugar levels) are the leading causes of acne at all ages, according to a meta-review of studies and clinical trials published in the Jour-nal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Now, researchers at New York University say milk’s natural hormones may additionally stimulate the acne-producing hormones present at puberty. “Milk is designed to grow things—namely babies—and in the case of cows’ milk, calves,” comments Dr. Mark Hyman, author of The Blood Sugar Solution. “It’s naturally full of muscle-building anabolic hormones… which [also] cause bad acne.” Hyman considers cows’ milk “nature’s perfect food only if you are a calf,” and warns of “60-some hormones in the average glass of milk; even organic, raw and bovine growth-hormone-free milk.”

Acupuncture Cools Hot FlashesA small, yet intriguing study published in

Acupuncture in Medicine found that tradi-tional Chinese acupuncture curbed the severity of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Fifty-three middle-aged, postmenopausal women were divided into two groups; one received such treatments twice weekly for 10 weeks, while the other experienced “sham” acupuncture with blunt needles that did not penetrate the skin. In both groups, levels of estrogen and other hor-mones were measured before the study began and before and after the last session. Menopausal symptoms—hot flashes, vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections and mood swings—were also measured before and after the treatments, using a five-point menopause rating scale (MRS) in order to assess their severity. At the end of the study, the women receiving

Chinese acupuncture scored significantly lower on the MRS scale, with hot flashes seeing the sharpest decrease. The researchers explain that acupuncture boosts pro-duction of endorphins, which may stabilize the temperature control system of the body. They say that more investigation is needed because the study was small, but note that its results seem promising, suggesting that traditional Chinese acupuncture could be an alternative for women unable or unwilling to use hormone replacement therapy to relieve menopausal symptoms.


Mindful Meditation Eases LonelinessSpecial

occa-sions and holidays can increase feelings of loneliness, especially for the elderly, and may pose an addi-tional risk factor for health problems such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s. A new study published in the journal Brain, Behav-ior, and Immunity, offers fresh evidence that mindfulness meditation reduces negative thoughts about being alone in older adults and also improves their physical health. The ancient practice dates back to the time of Buddha and focuses on creating an attentive aware-ness of the present moment. In the study, researchers at Carn-egie Mellon University, in Pennsylva-nia, recruited 40 healthy adults be-tween the ages of 55 and 85 that were interested in learning the technique. Subjects were assessed at the begin-ning and end of the study using an established loneliness scale, and blood samples were collected. After eight weeks of meditation training, partici-pants reported decreased feelings of loneliness, and new blood samples re-vealed reduced pro-inflammatory gene expression (manifestion of encoded information). Inflammation is thought to promote the development and pro-gression of many diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Lead researcher J. David Cre-swell reports, “Mindfulness meditation training is a promising intervention for improving the health of older adults. It’s important to train your mind like you train your biceps in the gym.”


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Bones. Posture. Balance.Feldenkrais Method & Bones for Life

4 Central Ave • Albany, NYconsciousmovements.com/bones

April 6, 2014 11am-6pmSpecial Guest Instructor

Victoria Ahrensdorf

Self-SufficiencyAmerica’s Best Community Garden CitiesWe don’t have to live in a rural area or even the suburbs to be a farmer these days. According to the Trust for Public Land, the 10 best cities for homegrown veggies from urban gardens are Seattle, Washington (a P-Patch program provides 68 gardens for residents throughout the city);

Portland, Oregon (its Produce for People program donates fresh produce to local hunger agencies); Long Beach, Cali-fornia (growing anything from sugar cane and lemongrass to sunflowers and tomatoes); St. Paul, Minnesota (17 community gardens—half run by nonprofits and half open to rent); Hono-lulu, Hawaii (1,254 plots for public use); San Jose, California (19 community gardens on 35 acres); Baltimore, Maryland (community gardens cover 11 acres throughout the city); Washington, D.C. (a Master Peace Farm program tends area gardens and mentors budding veggie growers at an adjoining middle school); Anchorage, Alaska (a city goal is enabling resi-dents to work together in harmony); and Louisville, Kentucky (Brightside’s community garden program, established 19 years ago, currently manages 10 of Louisville’s 16 gardens). These gardens not only extol the virtues of fresh, lo-cal and often organic foods, they also bring communities together. Some produce food for those in need, others have youth programs and some have even been credited with reducing local crime rates. Many community gardens accept new members in the fall; visit acga.LocalHarvest.org to find one nearby and reserve a space.

Source: TheDailyGreen.com


ecotip

Suspect SniffsPleasing Aromas Harbor Hidden DangersA special aroma may be pleasing to the senses and psyche, but some perfume fragrances contain danger-ous synthetic and toxic ingredients that can enter the body through the skin and lungs. Scientists at the Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, in Spain, found that about one in every 10 people will consequently suffer allergic reactions that include itchy, scaly, discolored, painful skin and asthma attacks. The European Union Scientific Committee on Cosmetic and Non-Food Products warns against their damage to the immune and endocrine systems, and Greenpeace cautions that the harmful ingredients can enter ecosystems. Consumers should check labels and avoid sulfates, phthalates, parabens, neomycin, galaxolide, limonene, linalool, bacitracin, cobalt chloride, tolu balsam (myroxylon pereirae), petrochemicals and propylene glycol, as well as anything referred to as “synthetic” or “artificial” fragrance. Instead, the Natural Perfumers Guild (NPG) promotes plant-based raw materials such as herbs, flow-ers, spices, leaves, bark and seeds; minerals, such as amber; essential oils; and tincture of vanilla. However, even excessive concentrations of natural ingredients like tea tree, lavender and citrus peel oils may trigger allergic reactions, according to the Environmental Working Group. Moderation is suggested. Look for makers that are members of the NPG or carry the Natural Products Associa-tion seal or organic certification by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or nonprofit NSF International.

Learn more at NaturalPerfumers.com or npaInfo.org.

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

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

Angels Are All Around Us

Paula Marie Histed 239-370-7928

[email protected] www.paulamariehisted.com

Individual Spiritual Readings ~ Numerology ProfilesMeditation / Workshops ~ Phone Readings

Serving the Capital District and Beyond


inspiration

Make a list of what you desire. List your desires—not wants or needs, which imply lack of, rather than abundance of, something. By saying/thinking/writing, “I desire [this] or some-thing even better now manifesting for the good of all concerned,” you create room for even greater possibilities.

Remember a situation of abundance. If you catch yourself wallowing in a bad memory or engaging in “stinkin’ thinkin’,” call up a contrasting memory

in which you felt rich, beautiful, accomplished, capable—whatever state of being you desire.

Align with your passions. By taking even a small step toward a passion or goal that nurtures you, you will

feel cleaner, clearer and more energetic, thus opening the way for progress. God has a plan for your life and His deep desire for His creation—you—is for you to flourish.

Look forward. List your most cher-

Take mental snapshots of

good times and tell yourself,

“Remember this.”

Steps to Abundance10

by Carolyn Blakeslee

ished dreams and immediate inten-tions. Better yet, pull pictures from a past happy time and cut out maga-zine pictures that represent the good things you desire in your future, and then paste them in a journal or on a poster board to refer to during mo-ments of reflection.

Streamline your life continually. Let go of situations and clutter that don’t support your aspirations.

Spend time with positive people. Don’t believe naysayers. You are work-ing to overcome your own limiting beliefs, so why listen to anyone else’s self-limiting negativity? Step away with kindness.

Select news sources carefully and set a time limit. Read only thought-ful, responsible journalism, which doesn’t include most TV news. You’ll avoid wasting time on nasty stories that engender negative feelings and harm-ful physiological responses. You’ll feel better for it.

Have the proverbial “attitude of grati-tude.” Count your blessings. Think often of all the good in your life. Say “Thank you,” more than once a day. Contemplate the areas of your life that are working well; take those skills and apply them to what you would like to improve.

Express gratitude. Thank others frequently, with thank-you cards, expressive emails, gestures of encour-agement and smiles. People always appreciate kindness and good man-ners, especially when civility seems in short supply.

Smile! When you answer the phone, put a smile on your face and in your voice. Welcome people into your life, even if it’s just for that moment. Al-low them to feel your warmth. When you catch yourself frowning with concentration during a task, pause to lift your brows, pull back your face and smile!

Carolyn Blakeslee publishes the North Central Florida edition of Natural Awak-enings (NaturalAwakeningsncfl.com).


businessspotlight

Pure Elements An Organic Salon and Wellness Shop offers

hair and nail services, facials, massage and waxing services in a chemical-free environ-ment using only organic and natural products. Their organic hair color is safe and non-toxic, so clients don’t have to worry about the fumes, stinging scalp, watery eyes or damage ammonia causes to the hair and body. The products have been certified safe for even pregnant women to use. Salon Owner Kristen Vesely, a certified organic color specialist, has taken many organic color and product classes with Organic Color Systems, Onesta, Eufora and John Masters. She is also trained in Vidal Sassoon hair cutting, Goldwell and Wella color and Redken hair cutting. Pure Ele-ments was voted Best Salon in 2013 by Capital Region Living Magazine and runner-up for Best Manicure and

Pedicure in 2011. Vesely recalls, “After working in the industry for 10 years, my personal health was deteriorating to the point that doctors told me I had to quit what I was doing due to the exposure of chemicals in hair color and hair care products. I absolutely love doing hair and didn’t want to give that up.

After a lot of research, I found organic hair color and products that work just as good, if not better than, traditional products. I decided to open an organic hair salon in April 2009 in Guilderland that provides a safe environment free of chemicals for my health and the health of my clients.” As an organic concept salon, Pure Elements does not expose their clients to the dangerous chemicals found in the typical salon hair color line, skin care products and nail polishes. The Wellness Shop stocks many organic beauty and personal care product lines

Pure ElementsProviding a Toxin-Free Beauty Experience

by Martin Miron

that are safe and effective. “Our biggest challenge is getting the word out about who we are, what we do and how we are different then your typical salon,” says Vesely. “The dangers in the beauty and cosmetic industry are not widely known or talked about, so people are not aware that they have a choice to continue their beauty routine without exposing their bodies to the dangerous toxic chemicals.”

Pure Elements Salon and Wellness Shop is located at 1724-1728 Western Ave., in Guilderland. For more information, call 518-608-5405 or 518-621-7984 or visit Pure-Elements-Salon.com. See ad, page 7.

Martin Miron is the editor of the NY Capital District edition of Natural Awakenings magazine.

Kristen Vesely


wisewords

A self-described “seeker from the get-go,” Marci Shi-

moff, is an expert at help-ing others effect greater personal fulfillment and professional success. The noted transforma-tional leader, speaker and author has written two bestselling books on hap-piness and unconditional love—Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out and Love for No Reason: 7 Steps for Creating a Life of Uncondi-tional Love, and co-authored six best-selling titles in the Chicken Soup for the Woman’s Soul series.

What is the old way of looking at love, versus the new paradigm shift you propose?We’ve been trained to think of love solely as energy between two people, usually experienced as conditional love—we feel love if the other person agrees with us, treats us a particular way or loves us back. But love is actu-ally the essence of who we are, and when we live in a state of uncondition-al love, what I call “love for no reason,” we experience our essence that is love, which doesn’t depend on another per-son, situation or romantic partner. It is the core of every spiritual tradition.

Why do our ways of loving often seem inadequate?We each have a “love set-point,” the upper limit of our ability to give and re-ceive love. We can’t feel more love by trying to change the outside—by relying on others to fill us up—because it will

How Unconditional Love Harmonizes Our WorldMarci Shimoff Explores its Transformative Power

by Judith Fertig

never work in the long run. We need to raise our love set-point higher; then we experience everything more through the eyes of love.

Do challenging economic times help us grow spiritually?We can use any life challenges to help us

grow and find fresh avenues of lasting fulfillment. Success and money don’t guarantee happiness, and I know that from my own wake-up call. In 1998, I had three of my Chicken Soup for the Soul books on The New York Times bestseller list at the same time. One day, I spoke to 8,000 people and autographed 5,432 books and felt like an author rock star. Yet when I returned to my hotel room that night, I burst into tears. All of the success was great, but it still hadn’t made me happy. That’s when I began my intensive study of happiness and love.

Does science support our capacity to daily experience and deepen a love for all things?Science is finding that there is a neuro-physiology of love. Studies by research-ers in major institutions worldwide show that we can do simple things like breathe more deeply, walk barefoot on earth, listen to uplifting music or prac-tice meditation that will support us in experiencing more unconditional love. These activities create greater heart rhythm coherence and new neural pathways in the brain.

How does having a heart that’s open to unconditional love benefit us?The Institute of HeartMath has discov-ered that the magnetic field generated by the heart—what’s measured on a magnetometer—is 5,000 times stronger than that of the brain. HeartMath re-search has also demonstrated that when we’re in a positive emotional state, our hearts beat in a coherent rhythm that causes all the other systems in the body—including the brain, immune system and hormones—to work more efficiently and harmoniously. Their research shows that experiencing this regularly leads to better health, slows the aging process and brings us greater creativity, resilience and happiness.

What are the seven doorways to practicing unconditional love revealed by your own research?I’ve interviewed hundreds of people that are living examples of unconditional love. I’ve found seven access points to experiencing more love: safety, being grounded and present; vitality, energy and well-being; unconditional self-love, feeling empowered; openness, being comfortable giving and receiving love; communication, listening and speaking with love; vision, seeing through the eyes of love; and oneness, feeling connected with the greater wholeness of life.

How does one person’s loving larger bless our families, communities and world?The more we experience love, the more we spread love to others. Our feelings are contagious. This idea is beautifully expressed in an ancient Chinese proverb: “When there is light in the soul, there will be beauty in the person.When there is beauty in the person, there will be harmony in the house.When there is harmony in the house, there will be order in the nation.When there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world.”

Connect with Marci Shimoff at HappyForNoReason.com.

Judith Fertig, of Overland Park, KS, is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.


creativespotlight

Jessica Lennon originally took up belly dancing to focus on herself and try something new after a long-

term breakup. Drawn to the art by a friend, Lennon searched for belly danc-ing in Albany, found a teacher, took her first class two days later and has been dancing ever since. That was 10 years ago, and Lennon has been teaching belly dancing for the past three years. “I am just drawn to the music, the culture and how chal-lenging the dance can be,” she says. “I love how the dance embraces women of all sizes and shapes, and that really anyone can do it.” Lennon learned the most from her local teacher, Habiba. “She didn’t just teach me how to do a shimmy or do an undulation, she taught me why you stand a certain way, depending on what move you are doing, why you wear certain types of costumes with certain music and that being a success-

ful dancer is so much more than having great technique,” says Lennon. “She taught me to respect the dance, where it came from and the culture behind it.” Now Lennon performs both as a troupe,

Jessica Lennon A Serendipitous Belly Dancer

by Lauren Hittinger

a duo and on her own in New York City and locally. Lennon teaches belly dancing at the Arts Center of the Capital Region, where students learn basic movements that include shimmies and hip and arm movements. She muses, “It’s called belly dancing, but you actually use all of your body.” Students with all levels of background in dance are welcome in the belly dancing class, because according to Lennon, it’s very different from any other form of dance, so every-one is really starting at the same point. While Lennon claims to not have other creative pursuits, saying “I have such a love for belly dancing that I focus most of my time on that,” she still plans on pursuing ballroom dancing one day.

For more information about classes and workshops, call 518-273-0552 or visit ArtsCenterOnline.org.


lead to allergies, arthritis, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, digestive disorders and cancer, according to Victoria Drake, Ph.D., of the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State Univer-sity, who culled the latest research (LPI.OregonState.edu/infocenter/inflammation.html). Creating an acid/alkaline balance. “Tilting the pH scale in the alkaline direction is easy with a diet filled with mineral-rich plant foods,” says Carr. It also means minimiz-ing meat, dairy, sugar, eggs, commercially processed foods, coffee and alcohol. Drinking produce. Green juices and green smoothies are ideal. “They are the most important part of my personal daily practice, one that I will never abandon,” Carr notes. Carr and her husband, Brian Fassett, whom she met when he edited her documentary, Crazy Sexy Cancer, share the juice and smoothie making responsibilities. “We make enough to have two 12-ounce servings of green drinks a day. Our recipes are often guided by what’s available in the fridge,” she advises. The secret is a three-to-one ratio of three veggies for every piece of fruit. Kale reigns in their home. The dark leafy superfood is especially suited for smoothies, salads and sautés. They like kale’s generous helping of vitamin K for maintaining strong bones. Carr’s Crazy Sexy Kale Salad is dressed with vinaigrette that includes flax oil, which she notes is high in omega-3s to promote healthy brain function. It’s also a well-known anti-inflammatory food. “Make sure to buy cold-pressed, organic flax oil in a dark bottle and store it in the fridge,” she ad-vises, “because light and heat may turn the oil rancid. I like Barlean’s brand, but there are many other quality flax oils available. Since it is sensitive to heat, I use it mostly in salad dressings and smoothies.” Carr maintains that, “By decreasing the amount of acidic inflammatory foods while increasing the amount of healthy and alkaline plant foods, you flood your body with vita-mins, minerals, cancer-fighting phytochemicals, antioxidants and fiber.” This supports the body in maintaining and re-pairing itself. She fur-ther points out, “Once your body repairs, it can renew. That’s big-healer medicine. You might as well get a business card that reads: self-care shaman.”

Award-winning cookbook au-thor Judith Fertig blogs at Alfresco-FoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.

Through the year, as different fruits, herbs and vegetables reach their various peak seasons, it makes sense to har-ness their power for the family’s benefit. “Some people

flock to plant-empowered living for better health, others be-cause of their spiritual beliefs, to support animal welfare, re-spect the environment or best of all, because it tastes great,” says wellness activist Kris Carr, a documentary filmmaker, New York Times bestselling author and the educational force behind KrisCarr.com. Carr joined the wellness revolution after being diag-nosed with a rare disease. It proved to be the incentive she needed to change her eating habits and find renewed power and energy. Her new book, Crazy Sexy Kitchen, with recipes by Chef Chad Sarno, celebrates the colors, flavors and pow-ers of plants that nourish us at the cellular level. Her main tenets include a focus on: Reducing inflammation. Inflammation is caused by what we eat, drink, smoke, think (stress), live in (environment), or don’t do well (lack of exercise). At the cellular level, it can

consciouseating

Health RulesCrazy, Sexy, Savvy, Yummy

by Judith Fertig

Wellness Activist Kris Carr


Easy Recipes “Many of my recipes have been influenced by cultural experi-ences, twists on favorite childhood meals or newly discovered ingredients,” says Chef Chad Sarno. “The strawberry smoothie is among Kris Carr’s favorites. Few dishes have proved to be as timeless and widely beloved as the kale salad.”

Strawberry Fields SmoothieEnjoy the nostalgic tastiness of strawberry milk sans moo juice or powdered junk. Strawberries are phytonutrient facto-ries, supplying the body with a bounty of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrients.

Yields 2 servings

3 cups cashew or nondairy milk of choice2 cups fresh strawberries1 Tbsp lemon zest1 small orange, peeled1 banana11/2 cups loosely packed spinach

Blend all ingredients until smooth in a high-speed blender.

Crazy Sexy Kale SaladKale is the king of leafy veggies and rules this prevention-rocks salad. Serve it solo with a favorite cooked grain, or wrapped in nori or a gluten-free tortilla. Crown this kale creation by adding chopped fresh herbs or favorite diced vegetables. To be fancy, serve the salad wrapped in a cucumber slice.

Yields 2 to 3 servings

1 bunch kale, any variety, shredded by hand

1 cup diced bell peppers, red, yellow or orange1/4 cup chopped parsley11/2 avocados with pit removed, chopped2 Tbsp flax oil11/2 tsp lemon juiceSea salt, to tastePinch of cayenne, to taste1 cucumber

Combine all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl. Massage and mix using both hands to “wilt” the kale and cream the avocado (takes just a minute or two). Then serve. For a fun touch, cut a thin lengthwise slice of cucumber and create a circle to outline each serving of salad, stitching the ends of the cucumber slice together with a toothpick. Place the salad in the cucumber ring and then serve.

Source: Adapted from Crazy Sexy Kitchen: 150 Plant-Em-powered Recipes to Ignite a Mouthwatering Revolution, by Kris Carr with Chef Chad Sarno.

Crazy Sexy Fridge Foods

Each week, Kris Carr stocks her fridge with what she con-siders “whole, plant-based deliciousness.” One of the big-gest secrets of eating healthy, she says, is being prepared. “Always keep a well-stocked arsenal of healthy ingredients at your disposal,” she advises. “At the very least, you’ll always be ready to whip up a green juice or smoothie.”

� Canning jars filled with ready-to-drink home- made smoothies and green juices

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Four SeasonsNatural Foods

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Is it true that, You’re only as pretty as you feel? Yes, says Alan Dattner, a New York medical doctor and pioneer in ho-

listic dermatology. “The most important thing that people can do for beauty,” he says, “is to come from peace, joy, appre-ciation and happiness inside, and let that radiate out on their faces.” Many experts agree: The secret to true beauty is to work from the inside out, as well as the outside in, reducing expo-sure to toxins of all sorts, including stress, and watching what we put in the body, as well as what we put on it. Here’s how Natural Awakenings’ panel of beauty pro-fessionals answered when asked how we can take good care of skin, hair and nails, and look our best, naturally.

SKINHow do I keep my skin resilient, clear and looking youthful?“Lifestyle issues, including stress, have a huge impact on skin,” advises Allison Tannis, a registered holistic nutritionist and author of Feed Your Skin, Starve Your Wrinkles. Before spending money on creams and treatments, look at your eating, sleeping, working, playing and exercising habits. “Stress, whether environmental or internal, increases the body’s production of free radicals, which leads to damage of cells, includ-ing skin cells,” Tannis explains. So, anti-stress activities, and just relaxing, boost your appearance. Adequate sleep is also crucial for cellular rejuvenation, which is why signs of sleep depriva-tion show up in the face immediately,

Natural Beauty — HEAD TO TOE

A Holistic Guide to Looking Your Bestby Frances Lefkowitz

ranging from pimples and puffiness to creases and dark, under-eye circles. A healthy skin diet is high in anti-inflammatory foods and antioxidants that fight free radicals. Tannis notes that, “Inflammation disorganizes the skin’s complex infrastructure that keeps it tight and strong.” Basically, a diet

that’s good for the body is great for the skin, as well, and comprises vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, such as olive oil. As for key foods, helpful antioxi-dants are found in berries and brightly colored fruits; Tannis especially likes kiwis and raspberries. Seeds and nuts have well-known anti-inflammatory properties, as well as minerals that form the building blocks of healthy skin and hair. Studies in the British Journal of Nutrition and elsewhere indicate that omega-3 oil, from borage, flaxseed, or fatty, saltwater fish like salmon can help hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness. According to research from the Uni-versity of Brussels, silica—present in cucumbers, rhubarb, bean sprouts and other veggies—seems to play a role in skin hydration, as well as the formation of healthy nails and hair. Because skin, nails and hair all need a range of nutrients to grow, repair, and rejuvenate, Tannis also suggests a good multivitamin supplement. Finally, drinking plenty of water is vital to keep-ing skin hydrated from the inside out.

HAIRLabels on my hair care products show a long list of unpronounceable ingre-dients. Is it possible to get great hair without dumping all these chemicals on it?It’s smart to be concerned about the ingredients in hair care and skincare products, because they are subject to little official regulation and may include


ingredients that are not only ineffective, but harmful to health and damaging to hair and skin. That’s why green liv-ing expert Renée Loux, author of Easy Green Living, makes environmentally friendly choices. “If it’s toxic for the Earth, it’s probably toxic for our bodies, too,” she believes. Complex ingredient lists often make it hard to know what we’re apply-ing. Fortunately, consumer advocates like Loux (ReneeLoux.com) and the Environmental Working Group (ewg.org) have done our homework for us. When choosing products, Loux’s rule of thumb is, “plants over petro-leum.” In other words, if the primary ingredients—listed in descending order by percentage in a shampoo, condition-er, gel, serum or mousse—are botanical or plant-derived ingredients, you and the planet are probably safe. Petroleum and petrochemicals—which are com-monly used in many hair care products and are derived from a non-renewable resource—don’t break down well into natural components in the environ-ment and may be harmful to human health. Loux also pays special attention to the, last few ingredients listed on the label because this is where innocuous-sounding toxins often hide, perhaps as a fragrance or colorant. In the shampoo category, Loux likes low-sudsing versions, because suds are typically created by synthetic-foaming agents called sulfates (sodium lauryl sulfate is common) that may ir-ritate skin and poison the environment. With hair color, look for a stylist that uses low-ammonia dyes, or buy them yourself in health food stores and natu-ral pharmacies; temporary colorants are safer than permanent dyes. “The deeper the color, the more important it is to look at the ingredients,” counsels Loux.

FACE With so many products and spa treatments to choose from, I’m confused about what my skin really needs to look its best. What are the basic necessities for a natural skincare routine? Cleansing (morning and night for oily skin, just at bedtime for dry skin) and

moisturizing (all skin types) are the basics of daily skincare, according to dermatology physician Jeanette Jacknin, author of Smart Medicine for Your Skin and founder of the J.J.M.D. Botanical Dermatology skincare line. She says that soaps are generally too harsh and drying for facial skin, so use a non-soap cleanser instead, pref-erably one that is pH balanced. Oily skin will need a toner after washing to control oil secretion, and then a mois-turizer, while dry skin can go straight

While the European Union has banned 1,100

chemicals from cosmetics, the United States has banned just 10. Only 11

percent of chemicals used in cosmetics in the United States have been assessed

for health and safety.

~ The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (SafeCosmetics.org)

to the moisturizer. “Men’s skin is actually thicker, rougher, and more oily and sweaty than women’s skin,” notes Jacknin. “Also, men have the special challenges of a beard. So, while a man may borrow his wife’s or girlfriend’s lotion, he may also want to find a skincare line made especially for him.” The next two steps in Jacknin’s natural skincare routine are exfoliation, to remove dead skin cells from the skin surface, and facial masks, which deep-clean, nourish and revitalize skin. These steps should be done once or twice a week, depending on skin type and the strength of the exfoliator or mask. Exfoliates come in two forms: abrasives, which physically rub off the dead skin cells; and chemical, which dissolve or peel away the surface skin layer. Natural abrasives include oatmeal and sugar granules, while fruit sugars and fruit acids, from pumpkin, apple or papaya, for example, provide natural chemical peels. Look for products with fruit-derived exfoliates or make your own (Jacknin recommends Skin-Care-Recipes-and-Remedies.com). Take ad-vantage of professional exfoliation and facial treatments by estheticians and


spas that use professional product lines with plant-based ingredients. The final step in any skincare rou-tine is sun protection. Wearing essential clothing, including hats, sunglasses and long sleeves, and staying out of the midday sun are dermatologist Dattner’s first choices for protecting skin from rays that can age and damage it. When in the sun, wear a mineral-based sun block such as zinc oxide, which stays on top of the skin, rather than getting absorbed, and forms a physical bar-rier to both UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays. Also, watch out for nano-minerals; these have been broken into particles small enough to be absorbed by the skin during the manufacturing process, with possibly harmful results, according to Dattner, Loux and other experts. Un-fortunately, the U.S. government does not require that nano-minerals be listed on labels, so consumers must do their own research. What about makeup? As Loux

“Give natural products a bit of time, and don’t be so hard on them,” she sug-gests. Her natural eyeliner requires reap-plying a few times a day, she says. “But I’m willing to do that for my health.” Her tips for making the transition: 1) Switch slowly; don’t dump all your old favorites all at once; 2) Go natural on the products you use every day, such as concealer and lipstick, which gets absorbed directly into the bloodstream when you eat or lick your lips; 3) Change your expectations, as natural makeup is not as long-lasting, inexpensive or easy-to-find as the more common, but toxic, stuff. The good news is when it comes time to remove it, all you need is raw coconut or sweet almond oil and a cotton ball. “Natural makeup just slides right off,” says Blades.

HANDSThe smell at the nail salon is noxious; should I be worried about what’s going onto my fingernails?

“If your eyes are watering, your nose is twitching and your lungs are seizing up, you should listen to your body,” says Loux. It is hard to get colors—especially

Each day, the average woman uses a dozen

products containing 160 chemicals, while men apply

about 80 chemicals to their bodies. However, 64 percent of beauty product users say they use at least

some “natural” items.

~ Not Just a Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry, by

Stacy Malkan

Naturally safe alternatives to commercial chemical

deodorants may be made with lavender, cypress or geranium essential oils, beeswax, baking soda or

rock crystal salts.

~ ehow.com

points out, the skin absorbs 60 percent of what goes on it, and many cosmet-ics are full of unregulated, untested petrochemicals. Does that mean you shouldn’t wear any makeup? Not at all. Makeup artist Jessa Blades, of Blades Natural

Beauty (BladesNatural Beauty.com), says that switching over to natural, safe, mineral- and plant-based cosmetics is easy, as long as you are realistic. In general, the fewer ingredients used, the safer the product.


bright, deep, rich, shimmering ones—to stick to nails; consequently, of all cos-metics, nail polishes tend to contain the most toxins. “Nail polish is one of the tougher products to find for someone who’s looking to go natural,” says Loux. But she points out that some brands are eliminating toluene, a petroleum-based solvent that the Environmental Protection Agency has linked to mild to severe problems with respiratory

Getting a good night’s rest is not only healthful, it induces others who see our well-rested faces to

perceive us as more healthy and attractive than those who are sleep-deprived, according to research by

the Karolinska Institutet, in Sweden. The study is the first to demonstrate that

the objective of getting our “beauty sleep” is the right

thing to do.

~ British Medical Journal

and nervous systems as well as kidney and liver functions. These less toxic polishes require more benign remov-ers than conventional noxious-smelling acetones. Always apply them outside or near an open window. Even better, achieve a smooth, clear shine without any polish using a nail buffer. It’s a quick, inexpensive way for men and women to sustain a natural, finished look.

FEET What can I do to get my winter-weary feet ready for sandals?In a word, exfoliate. Rub away calluses and thickened, cracked skin with an emery board, and then relax while soak-ing feet in Epsom salts to soften skin, and rub gently with a luffa or pumice stone. Foot scrubs containing salt or sugar granules invigorate and increase circu-lation, especially if they include pep-permint, rosemary or tea tree oil within a moisturizing Shea butter or organic foot oil. Exfoliating creams, similar to facial exfoliates, but stronger, also help peel away withered winter skin. Always be sure to apply a moisturizer to protect the newly exposed skin. Remember to soften elbows and knees, too.

Frances Lefkowitz’s new book, To Have Not, was named one of five Best Memoirs of 2010 by SheKnows.com. Connect at FrancesLefkowitz.net.

Bringing Nature to the Senses with

Essential Oilsby Elizabeth Gemlick

Many people

are looking for natural options, and Young Living Es-sential Oils, founded by D. Gary Young more than two decades ago, is providing them. The Young Living Essential Oils Everyday Oils kit contains 10 oils that are safe and of utmost purity to provide optimal health and well-ness properties for the whole fam-ily, including pets. When we stroll through a lavender field or a pine forest, our senses are instantly awakened by energizing aromas that envelop us to the height of well-being. Young Living celebrates this harmony be-tween nature, body, mind and soul and infuses it into everything they make, whether we want to fill our home with safe purifying products, strengthen our physical wellness, improve our physical wellness, improve our emotional balance or enhance our natural beauty. Young Living 100 percent pure therapeutic grade essential oils and essential oil-infused products can be ex-perienced by inhalation, topical application or ingestion.

Young Living Essential Oils will be on display at the NY Women’s Expo at Siena College on Mar. 8 and 9. Elizabeth Gemlick is a Young Living Essential Oils independent distribu-tor. Contact her at 518-229-6803 or [email protected].

~ADVERTORIAL~


Getting Ready for PregnancyStop taking birth control pills. If you’ve been using a hormonal method of birth control, your doctor may want you to take several months off before trying to conceive. Doing so allows your cycles to regulate and clears your body of any lin-

gering manmade hormones; use another form of non-hormonal birth control dur-ing this time.

Get your body in shape. According to Mairi Breen Rothman, a certified nurse-midwife with the M.A.M.A.S., Inc. home birth practice, in Takoma Park, Maryland, being in shape ensures a

BABY ON BOARDPREPARING FOR PREGNANCY & MOTHERHOOD

It’s vital for a woman of any age to physically prepare for pregnancy and motherhood, for the health of both the mother and the baby. Start by speaking with a trusted medical prac-titioner, and then consider the following practical advice, geared to keep everyone healthy and happy through every stage of the childbirth process.

by Jessica Iclisoy

healthykids healthier pregnancy. “Pregnancy is hard work, and the more strength you have, especially in your core, back and legs, the better you’ll feel during pregnancy,” she advises. Being in good physical shape before pregnancy can also make it easier to stay fit during the nine months that follow.

Start eating better. A balanced, organic diet provides the nutrients needed to raise a healthy developing baby. “During pregnancy, the baby is very much a part of its mother’s body,” says Rothman. “That means eating toxin-free foods, which cuts back on chemicals found in the mom’s body, will also limit chemical exposure to the baby.” Also remember to take a prenatal vitamin; a study by the MRC Epidemiology Resource Centre, at the University of Southampton, in the UK, found that only 5.5 percent of the 238 pregnant women monitored had taken the recommended 400 micrograms of folic acid each day prior to becom-ing pregnant.

Take care of chronic medical conditions. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma, for example, get it under control before becom-ing pregnant. Apprise your healthcare professional of any family health problems, so he or she can plan ahead once you conceive.

Having a Healthy PregnancyTake prenatal yoga. “Prenatal yoga not only promotes long, lean and supple muscles, it also helps with breathing, which is important during

Tell ‘em you saw it in Natural Awakenings

– of the NY Capital District!


labor and delivery,” counsels Rothman. Yoga also helps open the hip and pelvic joints and eases the aches and pains of pregnancy. The cat-cow pose, in particular, benefits the lower back, promotes circulation and even helps move the baby into the proper birth position.

Limit exposure to toxins. Examine the labels of prod-ucts you regularly use—especially skincare and cleaning products—and banish anything that contains a toxic soup of chemicals; if you can’t pronounce an ingredient, it’s prob-ably not good for you or your growing baby. Research from leading institutions such as the University of California–Berkeley and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has linked personal care and cleaning product ingredients to endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, devel-opmental and reproductive disorders and cancer. There are now plenty of easy-to-find, toxin-free product alternatives. Green cleaners are available at most grocery stores and CosmeticsDatabase.com offers helpful guidance on safe beauty products suggested by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group.

Research alternative therapies. Taking drugs for common medical problems such as headaches, colds and muscle pain isn’t always the best approach. Speak with your midwife or obstetrician about options like acupuncture, massage and homeopathy. According to a study published in Acta Ob-stetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, Swedish research-

ers found acupuncture to be effective in relieving back and pelvic pain during pregnancy; of the 1,500 pregnant partici-pants, 60 percent of those who tried acupuncture reported substantial pain relief.

Natural Mothering StrategiesBreast is best. Although breast-feeding isn’t super easy, it’s the healthiest option. “Human milk is meant for human babies, so it’s exactly formulated to be just what babies need and what they can easily digest,” notes Rothman. Breast-feeding gives babies an immunity boost, so that they tend to get sick less often and receive just the right nutrition; it also provides a sense of comfort, warmth and security that bottle feeding can’t match.

Use natural remedies for illness. Aromatherapy and homeopathy remedies work to reduce mothers’ and babies’ exposure to over-the-counter drugs. For instance, eucalyptus makes a good natural decongestant; simply add a few drops into the bath, a diffuser or even onto a cotton ball that can be placed on a bedside table, for a soothing scent. Be sure to talk with your doctor about any natural measures that you are taking to support family health.

Jessica Iclisoy, a holistic mother and founder of California Baby natural baby care products, writes about natural living from Beverly Hills, CA. Connect at [email protected].


Having a baby is one of the most important, life-changing events in

a woman’s life. Many expectant parents seek out childbirth classes to educate and prepare themselves and also to help reduce fears and uncertainties around giving birth and parenting. Childbirth classes can vary greatly, and there are many different philosophies, methods and techniques. Here are some of the op-tions available to expectant families.

Birthing From Within: This is a holistic model of birth education based on the concept that childbirth is a profound rite of passage, rather than a medical event. The focus of these classes is on self-discovery. They include practical information, but also use multi-sensory exercises—art, journaling, singing lullabies and intro-spection—to gain self-knowledge in preparation for birth. Women practice different coping techniques to handle pain in labor and are encouraged to develop ideas about what birthing from within means to them (four to six classes). BirthingFromWithin.com.

BirthWorks: This is based on the premise that there is no “right” way to give birth, and that women need to develop confidence in their own ability to have a baby. These classes are more a process than a method, as women are encouraged to participate actively in decisions about their care. Mothers are also encouraged to express their thoughts and fears about pregnancy and birth through journaling, painting and art (six to eight classes). BirthWorks.org.

Bradley Method: This holistic child-birth method is specifically for women

fact, taught by a teacher certified by Lamaze International. The Lamaze mission is to “promote normal, natu-ral, healthy and fulfilling childbirth experiences for women and their families through education, advocacy and reform.”

Focusing on the breath and using breath-ing patterns is only one of many tools taught. Classes cover normal labor and birth, labor and birth options, strategies to facilitate good progress and communica-tions skills. They provide information on medical procedures and pain medica-tions to help couples make informed choices. Most educators also cover breastfeeding, postpartum and newborn issues, as well as adjusting to parenthood (four to six classes). Lamaze.org.

Online Classes: Some expectant fami-lies consider using an at-home child-birth course, either online or on DVD. These classes can provide information in easy chunks on your own time. The drawback with this type of class is that often you cannot get the personal feed-back from a childbirth instructor.

To find local childbirth classes, visit national websites and view the local in-structors. BirthNet is an online resource for the Albany area (BirthNetNewYork.org). Also, ask a friend, doctor or mid-wife or contact a local hospital.

Pauline Nardella is a mother of three and a maternal child health nurse. She has been teaching childbirth and parenting classes for more than 17 years and is an adjunct clinical nursing professor for Dominican College. Con-nect at BirthingWisdom.com.

that would like to gain information about achieving a natural childbirth. It has a strong belief base that healthy moms have healthy and safe labors. The husband or partner is trained to “coach” and support the laboring wom-an physically, mentally and spiritually. Many relaxation techniques for labor are discussed and practiced at length. Bradley classes also focus on pregnancy nutrition, exercise, positive communi-cation, no separation of healthy babies from mothers and breastfeeding (eight to 12 classes). BradleyBirth.com.

HypnoBirthing – The Mongan Method: This is a unique method of relaxed, natural childbirth education, enhanced by self-hypnosis techniques. HypnoBirthing provides the missing link that allows women to use their natural instincts to bring about safer, easier and more comfortable birthing. The philosophy is that fear is a major factor in causing pain during labor. Controlling fear through deep relax-ation, self-hypnosis and visualization can allow a mother to experience a more comfortable birth, although fully aware and conscious. Birth planning, nutrition, exercises, breastfeeding and much more are covered in this com-prehensive childbirth class (four to five classes). HypnoBirthing.com.

Lamaze: Because “Lamaze” has become a generic term for childbirth preparation classes, it is important to make sure that the class is, in

Birth Options for Parents-to-Beby Pauline Nardella



Homebirth – Safe, Satisfied, Sage-FemmeHelping Women And Couples Explore What They Value Most For Their Birth Experience

Sage-Femme Midwifery • Kelly McDermott • 518-813-9290 527 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 12203 • www.sage-femmemidwifery.comwww.sage-femmemidwifery.com

• Care and support during active labor & birth • Fewer interventions & unnecessary Cesarean births

• Certified Midwife & Birth Assistants

Providing Full Care For All Three Phases Of Pregnancy: • Prenatal • Labor & Birth Attendance • Postpartum Care for Mother & Baby

Midwives Make a Difference in Hospital DeliveriesHaving an

obstetri-cian is not the only option when giv-ing birth in a hospital. Capital Re-gion Midwifery, LLC, (CRM) is the first midwife-owned group in the area to practice in the hospital. The midwives who own the practice include Margaret Holcomb, CNM, Pamela Platis, CNM, and Linda Balles, CNM, and they work with Nurse Practitioner Jill Martin. In March, they will be joined by Mau-reen Murphy, CM. The midwives were formerly with Seton prior to establishing CRM. One of the biggest reasons women seek their care is that they want to have their baby in the hospital, yet want to maintain some autonomy and some alternatives during pregnancy and at birth. CRM sees women of all ages for gynecol-ogy, and their nurse practitioner pro-vides well-woman and primary care. Late transfers are always welcome, and evening hours start this month. While there are several excel-lent home birth practices in our area, CRM is the only midwife-owned practice that provides 24/7 midwifery care in the hospital. “For some women, the hospital is where they feel safe. Feeling safe is para-mount to having a normal labor. We are there for those ladies, providing the care they seek and encouraging them to be a member of their own health team,” says Platis.

Location: 2109 15th St., Troy; 930 Albany-Shaker Rd., Latham. For more info, call 518-326-1620 or visit CapitalRegionMidwifery.com.

Choosing the Right Equipment for Babywearingby Amber Chaves

Many people believe that babywearing is a trend that started in the last 15 or

20 years, but the truth of the matter is that people have been wearing their babies for thousands of years all over the world. It is only here in the United State that we have seen a resurgence in wearing our littlest bundles as we go about daily activities, social commitments and many times, work responsibilities. It is wonderful to see so many par-ents connecting with their babies through the natural experience of babywearing. Research shows that infants that are worn cry up to 51 percent less than babies that are not, and this positively affects wellness for both baby and parent. Plus, healthy babywearing using the correct carrier sup-ports the healthy development of a baby’s spine and hips, stimulates the neural system and aids the digestive system. But with so many babywearing products on the market and many parents that have lingering questions about safety, the healthy practice of babywearing can seem intimidating. It makes sense to take pause, especially because not all babywearing products are made with the healthiest development of a baby in mind or the best ergonomics for the wearer. Those choosing a baby carrier should consider several key features, in-cluding that the carrier supports the baby’s hips in a spread squat position; the carrier supports the baby’s neck and head and supports them snug along the sides of the torso; the carrier is comfortable and allows the baby to be worn at the center of gravity of the wearer; and the carrier promotes the natural move-ments of the baby. It is best to always wear the baby facing the parent. For more information and education about babywearing, contact a certified babywearing educator.

Amber Chaves is a pediatric occupational therapist, certified babywearing ed-ucator and owner of The Bundle Store, located at 35 Milton Ave., in Ballston Spa. Call her at 518-557-8809 or visit TheBundleStore.com. See ad, page 45.


Midwifery Care Encompasses Total Wellnessby Heidi Ricks

Many women know health care as a search for potential problems with their reproductive

organs, but the midwifery model of care is rooted in preventative health care and healing based on the best evidence practices. Midwives educate, encour-age and empower women to take responsibility for their own health by helping them to make informed decisions for themselves and their families. In countries with the best outcomes for moth-ers and babies, such as Netherlands, UK and Canada, midwives are the primary care providers for women and babies. It has been proven in studies worldwide that educated, empowered women lead to healthier communities and nations. In the U.S., midwives can provide continuity of care throughout a woman’s life. Their scope of practice includes gynecological care, contraceptive care and preconception, prenatal, birth and postpartum care. Midwives attend births in hospitals, birthing centers and at home. By choosing midwifery care, women are creating ripples that will affect the health of their families in positive ways for years to come. Women and their midwives are challenging cultural norms by affirming the power and strength of women and the importance of their health and well-being.

Heidi Ricks, LM, is co-founder of Heartspace Midwifery, located at 406 Fulton St., Ste. 513, in Troy. Contact her at 518-588-7122 or HeartspaceMidwifery.com. See ad, page 29.

The Benefits of Prenatal Yogaby Pam Giuliano

Prenatal yoga is specifically designed to link yoga postures with breath that will

lead to new discoveries, bringing awareness to the mind, body and spirit. This program helps to strengthen the uterus and pelvic floor muscles, improve circulation, aid in digestion, exercise the spine and provide overall comfort. It will alleviate nausea, constipation, varicose veins, swelling, back pain and sciatica. Yoga keeps stress levels in check and

focusing on breathing can help us decompress. Breathing helps us see that we don’t always have to react so quickly and realize that there is a time for everything. Yoga in pregnancy can help improve sleep, decrease nausea and help prevent complications such as pregnancy-induced diabetes and high blood pressure. Yoga helps us make special time to connect with our baby without outside distractions. This bond between mother and baby will be everlasting. The benefits of prenatal yoga are many, regardless of the stage of pregnancy or how flexible we are.

Pam Giuliano, RN, is a prenatal yoga instructor at In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St., Cohoes. Contact InHarmonyYoga137@gmail or 518-369-8325 for schedule. Also visit InHarmonyYoga.org.


Sage-Femme Midwifery provides sup-port for all phases of pregnancy, as well as primary care and well woman

care. Owner Kelly McDermott is a licensed midwife and certified nurse midwife.

Founded in 2010, McDermott relates, “Sage-Femme is the culmination of lessons learned from the many wise women in my life and a humble commitment to carry on this tradition. As a midwife and provider of women’s health care since 1987, I have learned much from the women and babies I have cared for. Among the most impor-tant things I’ve learned is that true healing and quality health care requires a time investment. It calls for listening deeply and getting to know those we serve. It demands individualized care. This is not a model fostered by traditional medical care, but it is the model of the wise woman!” Sage-Femme is French for “wise woman” and also means “midwife”. McDermott believes in the philosophy that a wise woman knows that with support and nourishment women can heal…can be healthy; a wise woman seeks to empower; a wise woman takes the time to be a guide and knows that maintaining health is a lifelong journey; and a wise woman encourages women and their families to create their own best birth experiences. For new patients, a values-clarifying and decision-making session is offered to help women and couples explore what they value most for their birth experience. Preconception care is a critical component of health care for all women of reproductive age, both before a first pregnancy and between pregnancies. With a minimum staff of a midwife and an RN birth assis-tant and equipment for monitoring and supporting mom and baby throughout the labor and birth process, birth at home allows the process to unfold organically and without interfer-

Sage-Femme MidwiferyOffering a Comprehensive Menu of Birth-Related Services

by Martin Miron

ence. A specially trained birth companion that provides labor support, a doula is an advocate for mothers to provide complete informational, physical and emotional support. She is there prenatally, during and just after birth. McDermott offers hospital-based birth care with the personal approach of the homebirth midwifery model, with admit-ting privileges at the birthing center in the Burdett Care Center, in Troy, New York. For women that choose or need a hospi-tal birth at a hospital other than Burdett, Monitrice care can provide them with a personal care provider to transition from home to hospital and advocate for them

prenatally and during labor. Well woman care and GYN health services include regular pap tests and exams; birth control prescriptions and referrals; health screening; treatment of infections; and care for menstrual irregularities. Primary care options cover as-sessment and diagnostic services, holistic and pharmaceuti-cal treatment and referrals. “To truly be with women is to recognize, respect, and trust the wisdom that is integral to each woman and her baby, and to support them in teaching us how we can best meet their needs,” says McDermott. “This is what we offer to every woman.”

Sage-Femme Midwifery is located at 527 Western Ave., in Albany. A satellite office is located at 200 Main St., in Greenwich. For more information, call 518-813-9290 or visit Sage-FemmeMidwifery.com or Facebook.com/sagefemme-midwifery. See ad, page 31.

Martin Miron is the editor of the NY Capital District edition of Natural Awakenings magazine.



communityspotlightsCreate A True Ceremony of the Heart

There are many special moments associated with the birth of a child, and traditional church-based ritu-

als are not the only option for observing rites of pas-sage. Founded in 2010 by Rev. Lisajo Kay, an ordained interfaith minister, licensed wedding officiant, licensed speech-language pathologist and certified special educa-tion teacher, United Hearts Ceremonies will officiate at weddings, baby naming, blessings, welcoming ceremo-nies, new home blessings, ceremonies and rituals for all life events. She is also a certified thanatologist (specialist in death, dying and bereavement). As an interfaith minister, Kay can create custom ceremonies that incorporate personal religious, spiritual, cultural and/or family traditions if desired. Kay notes, “There are not many officiants (or celebrants) outside of a religious context that are available to help you share the joy of your new baby and welcome him or her into your family and community.” She wants couples and individuals to feel their ceremony is a true reflection of them, so she listens and works with each client to create a true ceremony of the heart.

For more information, call 518-212-7385 or visit UnitedHeartsCeremonies.com.

A Passion for Motherhood

Kelli L. Patenaude, DC, through her practice, the Schuyler Creek Chiropractic Center, is dedicated to

providing family wellness chiropractic care. She states, “In 2006, after working for another chiropractor, my husband, who is also a chiropractor, and I realized that we wanted a family-centered practice, so we made one ourselves.” Patenaude is a Webster-certified chiropractor, and is also certified through the International Chiroprac-tic Pediatric Association. Although she offers chiropractic for all ages and stages of life, Patenaude says, “I really like to work with pregnant moms and babies. Having the opportunity to support a mom to meet her goals of a natural birth is a

passion of mine.” As a mother of three, she has experience as a parent and knows what moms want and need to know to help their children grow happy and healthy. The doctor takes time to get to know her patients and focus on restoring func-tion to the body. She explains, “Our goal is to help them achieve a state of well-ness, which does not mean being a quick fix when someone is in pain. We want to help our patients live a healthy lifestyle.” Patenaude notes, “I think that we have succeeded because we have taken the time to listen to our patient’s needs and concerns. I really think that it is that simple. We are accommodating and always have time to fit someone in if they are in need or just need a question answered. We are real with our patients and I think they appreciate that approach.”

Schuyler Creek Chiropractic Center is located at 781 Hudson Ave., in Stillwater. For more information, call 518-664-4525 or visit SchuylerCreekChiro.com.

Rev. Lisajo Kay

Dr. Kelli L. Patenaude


Baby Boot Camp Helps Moms Get Fit

Baby Boot Camp is an innovative stroller fitness program that helps moms regain

or enhance pre-pregnancy fitness levels and meet the physical challenges of parenting by emphasizing strength training in a supportive environment. Founded by Kristen Horler in 2001, today Baby Boot Camp franchises are located all across the United States.

StrollFit, a 60-minute stroller fitness class for mom and baby, is Baby Boot Camp’s most popular event. It caters to all fitness levels: pregnant moms, ne w moms recovering from pregnancy and conditioned moms with one or two stroller-aged children. Cardio drills, strength training exercises and stretching increase overall fitness, and the ab assault at the end of class delivers a total body workout. Exercise modifications can be made for prenatal clients, particularly after the first trimester, new moms that are six to 16 weeks postpartum and active moms ready for an additional challenge. To participate in StrollFit classes, moms must be at least six weeks postpartum (eight weeks for a Caesarean section) and have received verbal clearance from their physician to resume physical exercise. Britta Hogue is the owner of Baby Boot Camp of the Capital District and is a personal trainer certified through the National Exercise and Trainers Association as well as certified in prenatal and postnatal exercise.

The first class is free. For class times and locations, call 518-222-5642. Baby Boot Camp will be at the Saratoga Baby Toddler Expo in April.

Albany Doula Provides a More Natural Birth Support Option

Cara Del Favero, owner of Albany Doula, provides childbirth coaching, as well as pregnancy concierge

services (birth doula). She says, “I am a family ’s walking ‘birth wiki’ that can provide them with up-to-date infor-mation and guidance in pregnancy and labor to facilitate healthy choices.” She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and is a certified lactation counselor, certified postpartum doula, BabyFriendly Trainer and OSHA-certi-fied placenta preparer. Del Favero stays with the mother around the clock, providing families with emotional and physical assistance to reduce birth interventions that may not be needed. She offers birth and postpartum doula support for both home and hospital births, placenta pill preparation, breast-feeding assistance, evidence-based childbirth education, belly casting and Baby-Friendly classes for maternity professionals, as well as doula support packages for Cesarean birthing families. Studies show a huge decrease in the risk of emergency C-sections (up to 40 percent) and epidural requests (28 percent), and overall increases in health for mom and baby. Del Favero says, “I truly believe that all families not only need access to doulas, but that they deserve access to real information to make educated choices.”

For more information, call 518-542-5475 or visit AlbanyDoula.net or Facebook.com/motherschoice.

Cara Del Favero


Safety and Service for Parents On the Go

Binx provides modern services for parents that make life with a baby easier, including Hygeia breast pump

rentals, sleep consulting services, car seat installations, gear cleaning (car seats, strollers) and more. Owner Ilissa Goman is certified by Safe Kids Worldwide as a child pas-senger safety technician, and certified by The Family Sleep Institute as a child sleep consultant. Car seat inspections are offered for free by appointment. Goman says, “One of our most popular services is our sleep consulting. We custom tailor a plan to fit your family’s needs to get everyone the sleep they deserve. We also offer other services like baby-proofing assessments, gift registry consultations and more. A part of our company that is loved by the community is our blog, where we feature the latest and greatest in the baby gear industry.” A special Gear Cleaning Day event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 22, at The Bundle Store, in Ballston Spa.

For more information, call 518-309-2469 or visit BinxBaby.com. Email [email protected] to register for the event.

communityspotlightsFull-Service Guidance for New Mothers

Erica DeBie, a certified doula and BANI (Birthing as Nature Intended) educator, as well as the owner of Erica’s Doula &

Newborn Care Services, offers home and hospital doula services and birth and postpartum care, as well as childbirth education. She states, “I enjoy helping women achieve the births they dream of and deserve. Working with families is extremely rewarding.” DeBie notes that numerous clinical studies have found that a doula’s presence at birth tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications; reduces negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience; reduces the need for pito-cin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction; and reduces the requests for pain medication and epidurals,

as well as the incidence of Cesareans.

To reach Erica, call 518-527-4127 or email [email protected]. For more information, v isit DoulaErica.webs.com or Facebook.com/doulaerica.

Erica DeBie

Ilissa Goman


YOGAsoluna

Variety of classes and levels:• Gentle• Prenatal• Chair• Yoga 101• Yin Yoga

Gift Certi�cates Available200 Hr. Teacher Training

O�ering private and group yoga lessons for all abilities and ages.

Let us bring compassion, peace and a sense of well-being into your life.

www.solunayoga.com

518-429-1455

2317 Balltown RoadNiskayuna, NY12309

• Warm • Qigong• Meditation• Pilates• Power Vinyasa

Grow Your Baby Naturally

Naturally Grown is a brand-new natu-ral, eco-friendly baby and momma

boutique. Owner Dr. Alison Brown is a chiropractor who specializes in pregnancy, pediatrics and postpartum rehab, practicing with her husband in Schodack and at Sage Femme Midwifery, in Albany. Naturally Grown offers cloth diapers and accessories, baby carriers, eco-friendly toys, nursing wear and bras, locally made products and eco-friendly baby products. They also offer classes for the community including Kindermusik, baby sign language,

breastfeeding support, infant massage, cloth diapering and more to come. A Breastfeeding Support Group meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon, March 6, and breastfeeding educational classes begin from 6:30 to 7 p.m., March 12. A cloth diapering informational session will be held at 10 a.m., March 22. Infant Massage class begins in April.

Brown states, “Being a chiropractor, I have a deep appreciation for natural means of supporting natural development and healing. I think this helps me offer advice and guidance when you come to the store looking for the right products for your family. I am also a mom. The products carried at Naturally Grown are prod-ucts that I have firsthand experience with.”

Location: 282B River St., Troy. For more information, call 518-274-2229 or visit NaturalGrownBaby.com. Find Naturally Grown, LLC on Facebook for events and updates.

A Home in the Country for Natural Birth Care

Local Care Midwifery, PLLC, offers women’s health care and planned home birth service. Midwife, Biodynamic

Craniosacral Therapist and owner, K. Michelle Doyle, RN, CNM, NYS LM, BSCT, MSN, founded the business in 2009 as the first licensed midwifery practice in the Capital District to offer planned home birth services. In addition to high-quality, individualized midwifery care, planned home birth services include pre-conceptual consults, prenatal care, ordering lab tests, ultrasounds and medications as needed, attending labor and birth, postpartum care, including lactation support with visits both at home or of-fice. Hour-long appointments allow time for clients’ needs to be known, comfort to be nurtured and pregnancy to blossom. Well woman care includes annual ex-ams, primary care visits, tests and prescriptions as needed. Biodynamic Craniosa-cral therapy (BCST) is available as a standalone therapy appointment or integrated into a prenatal visit, labor support or postpartum visit. A grand opening and annual LCM spring open house is planned from 1 to 5 p.m., May 4, for visitors to see their new digs, have some good food, share smile, stories and hugs, and take a stroll around LCM’s beautiful 10-acre property. A par-ent support group, LCM Moms & More, meets there from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month. BANI (Birth as Nature Intended) childbirth preparation classes, with Doyle and Suzanne Cardinal, will begin in the spring, along with monthly movie nights.

Location: 35 Dearstyne Rd., Troy. For more information, call 518 238-3469 or visit LocalCareMidwifery.com.

K. Michelle Doyle

Dr. Alison Brown


AROMATHERAPYYOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILSElizabeth GemlickIndependent Distributor #1275630518-229-6803 • [email protected]

Gentle Baby is a blend designed by Young Living specifically for expectant mothers and newborn babies. It may help relieve stress during pregnancy and many find it beneficial during the birthing process.

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

Ceremonies of the heart, for all life events; including baby naming, w e l c o m i n g a n d b l e s s i n g ceremonies. As an interfaith minister Rev. Kay customizes and co-creates ceremonies with you that can incorporate your desired

religious, spiritual, cultural and/or family traditions.

BRADLEY METHODGINA DICKERSON, AAHCCBradley Method Instructor512-944-2256 • [email protected]/ginadickerson

Interested in natural childbirth? Join Gina’s next class starting in May. Class topics include: exercise, nutrition, labor & birth, relaxation, labor rehearsals and much more.

BREAST PUMP RENTALBINX518-309-2469BinxBaby.com • [email protected]

Binx provides parents with the services they need to make life with a baby easier. Breast pump rentals, sleep services, car seat installs, and more.

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

As a chiropractor and holistic health proponent with over 25 years’ experience, Dr. Gulyas is skilled in taking care of moms and mothers-to-be. Specialized offerings in the area of pre and post natal care: gentle chiropractic

work, nutritional guidance, and whole family wellness education. See ad, page 10.

DR. KELLI L. PATENAUDESchuyler Creek Chiropractic Center781 Hudson Ave, Stillwater518-664-4525 • SchuylerCreekChiro.com

Schuyler Creek Chiropractic is a family wellness based practice. Dr. Kelli has many years of experience and further training to support women through pre/postnatal times in their lives.

DOULASERICA DEBIE, CD (DONA)518-527-4127• [email protected]/doulaerica DoulaErica.webs.com

Erica is an experienced doula, offering a complete list of services including childbirth education, birth doula, postpartum doula and Baby Nurse/Newborn specialist care.

ALBANY DOULA518-542-5475 • [email protected]/motherschoiceAlbanyDoula.net

Providing the Albany region with childbirth coaching, postpartum doula support, breastfeeding assistance, natural birth classes, placenta pills and more.

MOTHER POWERED DOULA SERVICESChristy Douglas & Rose [email protected] or 413-230-6805MotherPowered.com

Christy and Rose provide birth and postpar tum doula support , lactation counseling and prenatal, birth and newborn photography services in the Capital Region.

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

For expecting women, Buffy offers private Feldenkrais sessions and m o n t h l y Wo m b - t o - Wo r l d workshops. For the new mom, Buffy offers private sessions and classes for developing babies. See ad, page 34.

FERTILITYLIFE CYCLES IN BALANCELisa Cartier, Birth and Natural Fertility Coach518-307-9810LisaCartier.com

Programs to offer help and support for those struggling to conceive; ensuring pregnancy success for natural conception and for those undergoing fertility treatments.

GREEN NURSERYGREEN CONSCIENCE HOME33 Church St, Saratoga Springs 518-306-5196Green-Conscience.com

Providing information and interior products that will make your babies’ nursery a safe haven. Non Toxic cribs, mattresses, bedding, wall and floor finishes. See ad, page 55.

INFANT MASSAGEPEACEFUL BEGINNINGSMelissa Whipple, LMT518-253-0645PeacefulBeginnningsDaily@gmail.comPeacefulBeginningsdaily.com

Melissa is a certified prenatal massage therapist, infant massage instructor, birth doula, and prenatal yoga instructor. Her hope is for every new life to begin with peace.

LACTATION SUPPORTLYNN COUGHLIN518-456-4246BreastFeedingFirstSteps@gmail.comBreastFeedingFirstSteps.com

Lynn is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant o f f e r i n g p r i v a t e i n - h o m e breastfeeding consultations. Her service provides mothers and their babies skilled breastfeeding assistance and information,

specific to their needs.

DR. LORELEI’S HEALTHY BEGINNINGSBREASTFEEDING MEDICINEAlbany • 518-763-3312DLHBbreastfeedingmed.com

Dr. Lorelei’s Healthy Beginnings (DLHB) is a physician-based private medical specialty practice devoted solely to breastfeeding mothers and babies; covered by most health insurance plans, and able to see both mother and child as

patients for their breastfeeding needs.

pre/postnatalguide


LAMAZEHEALTHY BIRTH CHOICESDebra Mcallister, Rn, [email protected]

In-home, private classes to support you on your personal journey through pregnancy and birth. Debra focuses on labor coping ski l l s and evidence based education. $15/hour.

MIDWIFERYCAPITAL REGION MIDWIFERY, PLLC2109 15th St, Troy930 Albany-Shaker Rd, Latham518-326-1620 • CapitalRegionMidwifery.com

Hospital based midwifery p r a c t i c e ; c o m m i t t e d t o providing individualized care. Births offered at Burdett Care Center and Bellevue Hospital. Also accepting new clients for gynecology, family planning,

contraception, and wellness care.

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.

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

Local Care Midwifery, PLLC is an independent midwifery practice offering quality women's health care and planned home birth services. Considering home birth? Call us for a free consult.

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

At Sage-Femme Midwifery, we be l ieve 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. See ad, page 31.

THE FAMILY LIFE CENTER20 Elm St, Albany • 518-465-0241Info@AlbanyFamilyLifeCenter.orgAlbanyFamilyLifeCenter.org

The Capital Region’s longest standing independent childbirth suppor t cen te r, o ffe r ing homebirth midwifery, doula support, childbirth education,

support groups and more.

NATURAL MATERNITY/BABYNATURALLY GROWN282B River St, Troy518-274-2229 • NaturalGrownBaby.com

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

products and educational classes.

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

Eco-friendly baby and maternity boutique. Babywearing, toys and gifts, maternity/

nursing items, handmade, socially responsible inventory. Classes and events for parents and parents-to-be. See ad, page 45.

ORGANIC MOM/BABY BODYSARATOGA BOTANICALS ORGANIC SPA & STORE80 Henry St, Saratoga Springs518-306-4108 • SaratogaBotanicals.com

Saratoga Botanicals’ organic bath and body products include a cocoa but te r s t re tch mark prevention stick affectionately ca l l ed “The Booty Ba lm” formula ted to be sa fe for expectant Moms. See ad, page 44.

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

NYR Organic’s ultra-gentle mother and baby lines are made with pure, certified organic ingredients to gently nourish delicate and expanding skin and to protect your precious bundle of joy.

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

Back pain is a common before and after childbirth. The McKenzie Method has been proven to be invaluable in identifying and correcting the cause of these conditions. See ad, page 16.

PRE/POSTNATAL FITNESSBABY BOOT CAMP OF THE CAPITAL DISTRICTBritta.Hogue@BabyBootcamp.com518-222-5642BabyBootcamp.com/ny-capital-district.aspx

Baby Boot Camp is an innovative stroller fi tness program that helps moms regain or enhance pre-pregnancy fi tness levels and meet the physical challenges of parenting by emphasizing strength

training in a supportive environment. First class is free.

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

Allow special time and sacred space to connect with your baby without outside distractions. Prepare your body mind and baby for labor and delivery while maintaining a peaceful

pregnancy and an everlasting bond.

SOLUNA YOGA2317 Balltown Rd, Niskayuna518-429-1455SolunaYoga.com

Prenatal yoga provides a special time for moms to learn yoga poses, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques that will be useful for labor and delivery. All levels are welcome. See ad, page 37.

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

Support your body and your birth during this sacred time of growing a new life. Deeply connect with your baby through

breath and mindfulness. Stretch and strengthen to prepare for your special day. Learn breathing techniques to help you through your labor. See ad, page 36.

Whoever is happy will make others happy too. ~Anne Frank


Publish a Natural Awakenings Magazine in Your CommunityShare Your Vision and Make a Difference

• Meaningful New Career• Low Initial Investment• Proven Business System• Home Based Business• Exceptional Franchise

Support & Training

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you can enjoy learning about healthy and joyous living while working from your home and earn a good income doing something you love!

No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.

To determine if owning a Natural Awakenings is right for you and your target community, call us at:

239-530-1377 or visitNaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 88 markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Natural Awakenings is now expanding into new markets across the U.S. OR

you may purchase an existing magazine.

• Birmingham,AL

• Huntsville,AL

• Mobile/Baldwin,AL*

• LittleRock/HotSpgs.,AR*

• Phoenix,AZ

• Tucson,AZ

• EastBayArea,CA

• SanDiego,CA

• Denver/Boulder,CO

• FairfieldCounty,CT

• Hartford,CT

• NewHaven/Middlesex,CT

• Washington,DC

• Daytona/Volusia/Flagler,FL

• NWFLEmeraldCoast

• Ft.Lauderdale,FL

• Jacksonville/St.Augustine,FL

• Melbourne/Vero,FL

• Miami&theFloridaKeys*

• Naples/Ft.Myers,FL

• NorthCentralFL*

• Orlando,FL*

• PalmBeach,FL

• PeaceRiver,FL

• Sarasota,FL

• Tampa/St.Pete.,FL

• FL’sTreasureCoast

• Atlanta,GA*

• ChicagoN.Shore,IL

• Indianapolis,IN

• BatonRouge,LA

• Lafayette,LA

• NewOrleans,LA*

• Boston,MA

• WesternMA*

• AnnArbor,MI

• EastMichigan

• WesternMI

• WayneCounty,MI

• Minneapolis,MN

• Asheville,NC*

• Charlotte,NC

• LakeNorman,NC

• Triangle,NC

• Central,NJ

• HudsonCounty,NJ

• MercerCounty,NJ

• Monmouth/Ocean,NJ

• NorthNJ*

• NorthCentralNJ

• SouthNJ*

• SantaFe/Abq.,NM

• LasVegas,NV

• Albany,NY

• CentralNY

• LongIsland,NY

• Manhattan,NY

• Rockland/Orange,NY

• Westchester/PutnamCo’s.,NY

• CentralOH

• Cincinnati,OH

• Toledo,OH

• OklahomaCity,OK

• Portland,OR*

• Bucks/MontgomeryCounties,PA

• Harrisburg/York,PA

• Lancaster,PA

• LehighValley,PA

• Pocono,PA/WarrenCo.,NJ

• RhodeIsland

• Charleston,SC

• Columbia,SC

• GrandStrand,SC*

• Greenville,SC

• Chattanooga,TN

• Knoxville,TN*

• Memphis,TN

• Nashville,TN*

• Austin,TX*

• DallasMetroplex,TX

• Dallas/FWMetroN

• Houston,TX*

• SanAntonio,TX

• Richmond,VA

• VA’sBlueRidge

• Seattle,WA

• Madison,WI

• Milwaukee,WI

• PuertoRico

*Existingmagazinesforsale


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).

plus $15 for materials. Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Info: 518-273-0552.FREESkin Conditions: Causes of Hormone Bal-ance, Stress Digestive Health – 6:30-8pm Lecture by Dr. Heidi Rasmussen. Discussion of common skin conditions including what causes outbreaks, rashes and eruptions, role hormones play, impact of stress and more. Esthetician, Tara Allen addresses skin care treatments, routines, products and what to avoid in them. Space limited. Free. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.

THURSDAY, MARCH 6Makeover Your Medicine Cabinet – 11am. Learn how therapeutic oils can replace over-the-counter medicines. $10 donation. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Register: Jaime, 518-312-2766.Holistic Moms Network: Baby Signing – 6-8pm. Rebecca of Happy Babble will present on baby signing. Kids welcome but be mindful of the presenter and others’ experiences. Saratoga Spgs Public Library, Dutcher Room, 49 Henry St. Info: [email protected].

SATURDAY, MARCH 8

SATURDAY, MARCH 8 - SUNDAY MARCH 9

NY Women’s Expo 2014 – Mar 8-9. 10am-6pm/Sat; 10am-4pm/Sun. The ultimate shopping and entertainment experience for women with over 150 exhibits showcasing the best of the Capital Region's salons, spas, boutiques, fashion, health, nutrition, fi tness, fi nancial planning, career build-ing, home decor, education and more. Seminars and demonstrations from the area experts. $5. Siena College, Marcelle Athletic Complex, Loundonville. Info: NYWomensExpo.com.

markyourcalendar

Lymphatic Facilitation for Head, Neck & Face – 9am-6pm. Explore the A&P of the lymph system and its relationship to other body systems. Learn tech-niques appropriate for treatment of many lymph related pathologies. $200. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.3rd Annual Play Room on the Plaza – 10am-5pm. Join Miss Sari of Tiny Tots Tea Room for the 2014 Hannaford Kids Expo. Let the kids out of the stroll-ers to stretch their legs while mom’s rest theirs. Free. Empire State Plaza, Albany. Info: 518-348-1050.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28Open House at Community Massage Holistic Therapies – 5-7pm. Meet the practitioners, learn about variety of services available and explore the comforting space. Offering chair massage and a raffl e. Featuring photography by John O’Neill. Free. Part of Troy Night Out. 255 River St, Troy. Info: 518-272-1400.Movie Night – 7:30pm. Curious about mindfulness? Grab a cushion and explore the world of mindfulness through the eyes of 35 world-renowned medical and mental health experts in the fi lm, The Mindfulness Movie. Free. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Info: 518-435-1280.

SATURDAY, MARCH 1Aromatherapy and Massage for Athletes – 9am-5pm. Learn how to use aromatherapy combined with massage to make a marked difference in the way the body responds to preparation and recovery of athletic events and workouts. $140. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.Weight Loss Seminar – 12-1pm. Learn how to eat better and lose weight without starvation. A proven program of healthy weight loss without drugs or surgery. Free. Northeast Spine and Wellness, 1741 Rte 9, Clifton Park. RSVP: 518-371-4800.Envisioning Your Dreams Coming True: Vision Boarding Workshop – 1-4pm. Develop and real-ize individual’s vision for 2014. Start with guided visualization to clear blockages and clarify, then create a vision board, a physical representation of one’s vision. Given by Shannon Keyes and Janet Tanguay. $45. Preregistration required. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, MARCH 2Movement for Musicians Workshop – 11am-6pm. This Feldenkrais Method and Musical Mastery work-shop is perfect for both amateur and professional musicians. $120. Hosted by Conscious Movements. Info: 518-629-5664.Accessing Morphic Fields – 2-4pm. Learn the basics of Matrix Energetics that can help to make life more productive and fun. $20 suggestion dona-tion. Numinous, Shenendehowa Adult Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park. Register: 518-424-0406.Metaphysical Book Discussion Group – 6pm. Discussing Rescuing the Bible from Fundamental-ism by John Shelby Spong. Hosted by New Thought New York. By donation. Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence St, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-423-3569.

MONDAY, MARCH 3American Red Cross Blood Drive – 11:30am-5:15pm. Donation types: double-red cells, blood. Colonie Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Rd, Loudonville. Info: 800-733-27677.

TUESDAY, MARCH 4Self Care for Bodyworkers: Treating Hand, Wrist & Forearm Pain – 5:30-8:30pm. Learn a variety of ergonomically safe soft tissue techniques while expanding awareness of treatment and prevention of pain. $75. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.Open Beginner Night of Nia Dance – 6-7pm. Learn the basic moves to get started and begin connecting to joy and healing. No experience necessary. Space limited. $18. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. RSVP: 518-452-3679.Stop Painting Your Walls: American Clay Work-shop – 6-7:30pm. Learn a new “green” way to add color and texture to the home with American Clay plasters. Learn how to apply the clay and leave with a self-made sample board. $20. Supplies included. Green Conscience Home, 33 Church St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-5196.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5Introduction to SoulCollage: For Writing and Self-expression – 1-4pm. With trained facilitator, Carol Coogan. Attracted to images? Collect magazines and don’t know what to do with them? Longing to express creatively and access inner wisdom? $198 six sessions

Publish a Natural Awakenings Magazine in Your CommunityShare Your Vision and Make a Difference

• Meaningful New Career• Low Initial Investment• Proven Business System• Home Based Business• Exceptional Franchise

Support & Training

As a Natural Awakenings publisher, you can enjoy learning about healthy and joyous living while working from your home and earn a good income doing something you love!

No publishing experience is necessary. You’ll work for yourself but not by yourself. We offer a complete training and support system that allows you to successfully publish your own magazine.

To determine if owning a Natural Awakenings is right for you and your target community, call us at:

239-530-1377 or visitNaturalAwakeningsMag.com/mymagazine

Natural Awakenings publishes in over 88 markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Natural Awakenings is now expanding into new markets across the U.S. OR

you may purchase an existing magazine.

• Birmingham,AL

• Huntsville,AL

• Mobile/Baldwin,AL*

• LittleRock/HotSpgs.,AR*

• Phoenix,AZ

• Tucson,AZ

• EastBayArea,CA

• SanDiego,CA

• Denver/Boulder,CO

• FairfieldCounty,CT

• Hartford,CT

• NewHaven/Middlesex,CT

• Washington,DC

• Daytona/Volusia/Flagler,FL

• NWFLEmeraldCoast

• Ft.Lauderdale,FL

• Jacksonville/St.Augustine,FL

• Melbourne/Vero,FL

• Miami&theFloridaKeys*

• Naples/Ft.Myers,FL

• NorthCentralFL*

• Orlando,FL*

• PalmBeach,FL

• PeaceRiver,FL

• Sarasota,FL

• Tampa/St.Pete.,FL

• FL’sTreasureCoast

• Atlanta,GA*

• ChicagoN.Shore,IL

• Indianapolis,IN

• BatonRouge,LA

• Lafayette,LA

• NewOrleans,LA*

• Boston,MA

• WesternMA*

• AnnArbor,MI

• EastMichigan

• WesternMI

• WayneCounty,MI

• Minneapolis,MN

• Asheville,NC*

• Charlotte,NC

• LakeNorman,NC

• Triangle,NC

• Central,NJ

• HudsonCounty,NJ

• MercerCounty,NJ

• Monmouth/Ocean,NJ

• NorthNJ*

• NorthCentralNJ

• SouthNJ*

• SantaFe/Abq.,NM

• LasVegas,NV

• Albany,NY

• CentralNY

• LongIsland,NY

• Manhattan,NY

• Rockland/Orange,NY

• Westchester/PutnamCo’s.,NY

• CentralOH

• Cincinnati,OH

• Toledo,OH

• OklahomaCity,OK

• Portland,OR*

• Bucks/MontgomeryCounties,PA

• Harrisburg/York,PA

• Lancaster,PA

• LehighValley,PA

• Pocono,PA/WarrenCo.,NJ

• RhodeIsland

• Charleston,SC

• Columbia,SC

• GrandStrand,SC*

• Greenville,SC

• Chattanooga,TN

• Knoxville,TN*

• Memphis,TN

• Nashville,TN*

• Austin,TX*

• DallasMetroplex,TX

• Dallas/FWMetroN

• Houston,TX*

• SanAntonio,TX

• Richmond,VA

• VA’sBlueRidge

• Seattle,WA

• Madison,WI

• Milwaukee,WI

• PuertoRico

*Existingmagazinesforsale


Feng Shui for Beginners – 12:30-4pm. Learn how to utilize Feng Shui for better living. Make positive changes in one’s environment to improve health, wealth and love life through placement of objects, color, light and intention. $45. Preregistration re-quired. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Matrix Energetics Sessions – 1-3pm. Practitioners of Matrix Energetics will be available for transfor-mational sessions. Donation. Still Point Interfaith Retreat Center, 20 Still Point Rd, Mechanicville. Info: 518-587-4967.Divine Harmony Spiritualist Church Service – 4pm. Services include music, healing, laughter, great energy and messages from Spirit, followed by a social hour. Children’s Lyceum activities held during the service. Niskayuna Reformed Church, Fellowship Hall, 3041 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Niskayuna. Info: 518-213-4724.Community Kirtan – 7-9pm. Ecstatic chanting from the Indian Bhakti (devotional) tradition. Everyone sings together from their hearts, regardless of ability. Sing, dance or lie down and relax. No experience or special skill necessary. Kids welcome with supervi-sion. $15 donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, MARCH 9Sit Breathe Pray – 9:30am-12:30pm. Join De-varshi/Steven Hartman to explore practices cultivat-ing heightened awareness and the fundamentals of meditation. $18. Hindu Cultural Center, 450 Albany Shaker Rd, Loudonville. Info: 518-542-3068.HOPE Pet Adoption Clinic – 1-4pm. Homes for Orphaned Pets Exist will be holding an Adoption Clinic at the Wilton Mall, 3065 New York 50, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-428-2994.Open Mic Poetry and Prose – 2pm. Hosted by Nancy Klepsch and Dan Wilcox. One of the Capital Region’s best open mic venues for poetry and spo-ken word. Bring friends and prose for performance. Free. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Info: 518-273-0552.

TUESDAY, MARCH 11Clifton Park Chabad Purim Celebration – 1-2pm. Join Leah Rubin as the members of the Clifton Park Chabad celebrate Purim in the princess room. Crafts, stories, food and games. Free admission to celebration. $8/open play, $4/siblings. Tiny Tots Tea Room, 1536 Crescent Rd, Plaza 8, Clifton Park. Info: 518-348-1050.Butterfly Lecture – 7pm. Learn about sensors that were inspired by the iridescent scales of the Mor-pho butterfly wings with Dr Radislav Potryrailo, Principal Scientist at GE Global Research. $5-$10 donation. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Ter Hts, Schenectady. 518-382-7890.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12Breastfeeding Informational Sessions – 6:30-7pm. Series of five 30-minute sessions designed to provide the most up-to-date information to help achieve a successful breastfeeding relationship. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Register: 518-274-2229.Community Class: Easier Sitting – 6-7:30pm. This Feldenkrais class instructs how to explore dif-ferent aspects of sitting and how to most effectively

use one’s body and movement while sitting. Free. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. RSVP: 518-435-1280.Healthy Meals in a Flash – 6-8:30pm. With Tamara Flanders. Learn how to make nutritious meals in no time. $65. Different Drummer’s Kitchen, Stuyvesant Plaza, Albany. Preregister: 518-459-7990.

THURSDAY, MARCH 13Total Transformation: Information Meeting (Day) – 12-1pm. For those interested in the nine weeks to Total Transformation Program. Overview of the program includes: benefits, program costs and insurance reimbursement. Total Transformation Team members will be on hand to answer questions. Special program discount offered to those signing up for this meeting. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.Cancer Support Group – 12-1pm. Release feelings of isolation, confusion, anxiety, identity crisis and day to day uncertainties among people with similar wishes to improve the quality of life. Donations welcome. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624.American Red Cross Blood Drive – 1-6pm. Donation types: double-red cells, blood. Presby-terian Church, 585 Delaware Ave, Delmar. Info: 800-733-27677.Total Transformation: Information Meeting (Evening) – 6-7pm. For those interested in the nine weeks to Total Transformation Program. Overview of the program includes: benefits, program costs and insurance reimbursement. Total Transformation Team members will be on hand to answer questions. Special program discount offered to those signing up for this meeting. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.

FRIDAY, MARCH 14

FRIDAY, MARCH 14 - MONDAY, MARCH 17

St Patty’s at Tiny Tots Tea Room – Mar 14-17. During regular business hours. Special green food and drinks, face painting and sales. $8/open play, $4/siblings. Tiny Tots Tea Room, 1536 Crescent Rd, Plaza 8, Clifton Park. Info: 518-348-1050.

markyourcalendar

SATURDAY, MARCH 15Foot Reflexology Training Level 1: (class 1 of 4) – 8:30am-8pm. Learn how to give a complete 60-90 minute foot reflexology session to stimulate points that correspond to all parts of the body. $650. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.Feldenkrais 101 – 9:30am-12:30pm. Workshop is a practical introduction to the fundamentals that underlie the Feldenkrais Method; an excellent first step towards mastering awareness and developing skillful movement. $45. Conscious Movements, Albany. Register: 518-629-5664.Chronic Low Milk Supply – 10am. Unable to breastfeed baby due to low milk supply? Join other moms for support. Free. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Register: Kate, 518-926-0112.Flamenco Workshop – 11am-1pm. Learn every-thing needed to get started in this incredibly emotive dance form. $25 new guests. $35 returning guests. Nataraja Center for Movement Arts, Clifton Park. Register: 518-336-5506.Super Saturday Sampling Event – 11am-2pm. Sample locally produced cheese, granola, coffee, candy or pesto. Open to the public. Niskayuna Co-Op, 2227 Nott St, Schenectady. Info: 518-374-1362.Weight Loss Seminar – 12-1pm. See Mar 1 for details. Northeast Spine and Wellness, 1741 Rte 9, Clifton Park. RSVP: 518-371-4800.Change Your Thinking; Change Your Life Work-shop – 1-4pm. Reach goals and embrace the life desired by beginning to use the mind to one’s advan-tage. Interactive workshop examines how thoughts and beliefs create reality. Offered by New Thought New York by donation. Preregistration is required. Limited space. Pine Hollow Arboretum, Slingerlands, Preregister: Regina Wagner-Garhartt, 518-466-6846.Tribal Fusion Workshop – 2-4pm. Explore the pow-er and beauty of modern belly dance. $25 new guests. $35 returning guests. Nataraja Center for Movement Arts, Clifton Park. Register: 518-336-5506.Discovering the Sacredness of Breath Sound– 7-9pm. With Phil Shiva Jones. An interactive spiritual sound and breath meditation workshop and chanting performance. Learn meditation and simple breathing techniques with the Australian didgeridoo. $20 early registration. $25 same day. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, MARCH 16Introduction To Quantum Touch –2-4pm. Ac-celerate healing through resonance, entrainment and breathing techniques. $20 suggestion donation. Numinous, Shenendehowa Adult Community Cen-ter, 6 Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park. Register: 518-424-0406.Empowering the Self with Ease – 2-3:30pm. Learn to connect with the power which is within the self all the time. Change habits and make posi-tive choices for one’s life. Free. The Hindu Temple Cultural Center, 450 Albany-Shaker Rd, Albany. Info: 518-466-3904.Potluck and Movie Night – 5:15pm/dinner; 6pm/movie. If curious about the New Thought move-ment or want to know more about its history and current evolution, come and see the movie Unlikely Friends Followed by discussion. By donation. New


Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.Potluck Sacred Fire Ceremony – 6pm. Facilitated by Shari Parslow of Luminous Energy Medicine. Donation. Still Point Retreat Center, 20 Still Point Rd, Mechanicville. RSVP: 518-879-9365.Journeying with the Goddess – 7pm. With Rev Angela Pace-Lunz. Be guided through ancient religions, forgotten traditions and untold stories of the goddess from all over the world. History, ceremony and healing while connecting with the divine feminine. BYO journal and pen. $13. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Preregister: 518-744-5565.

SATURDAY, MARCH 22Night of the Lion Planetarium Show Opens – Thru Apr 19. Celebrate the start of spring and explore Leo, the lion, a constellation visible in the spring night sky, in this fun and informative live exploration of the planets, stars and constellations. Admission plus $5. Museum of Science and Innova-tion, 15 Nott Ter Hts, Schenectady. 518-382-7890.Considering Cloth Diapers? – 10-11am. Discuss the advantages of cloth diapering and why one might want to cloth diaper baby or toddler. $10. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Register: 518-274-2229.Reclaiming Your Inner Magician: Energy Tools to Create a Phenomenal Life – 11am-1pm. What possibilities could one create if able to turn every-thing around that seems to be holding them back and to claim, own and acknowledge the advantages individuals actually possess? Hosted by Transforma-tional Specialist Barbra Gilman. $35. Held in Sara-toga Spgs. Registration required: 929-777-0873.Divine Harmony Spiritualist Church Service – 4pm. See March 8 for details. Niskayuna Reformed Church, Fellowship Hall, 3041 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Niskayuna. Info: 518-213-4724.Equinox Celebration – 4pm. Welcome spring with sound, ceremony and gentle movement. Facilitated by Elizabeth Woodbury Kasius and Shari Parslow. By donation. Heartspace Yoga, 10 Second St, 2nd Flr, Troy. RSVP: 518-512-3390.

SUNDAY, MARCH 23Frozen Shoulder: A Connective Tissue Perspec-tive – 9am-6pm. Learn the basic protocol and application for frozen shoulder, bicep tendonitis and tension headaches by using connective tis-sue techniques. $200. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.Become an Access Consciousness Bars Practi-tioner – 10am-5pm. By touching 32 points on the head, limiting beliefs are released, like deleting old files off the computer and then allowing something new and wonderful to show up. $200. Saratoga Spgs. Registration required: 929-777-0873.

MONDAY, MARCH 24Monthly 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. Unwind, restore, meditate and rejuvenate. Space limited to 10. $15. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Monty Python’s Life of Brian – 7pm. Part of the MVP Health Care Premier Movie Series, catch the 1979 religious parable that probably offends every denomination equally. Brian Cohen is a young boy born on the same day as and next door to, Jesus. Rated PG. $5 adults, $3 child. The Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave, Albany. Info: 518-465-3334.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26Elegant Entrée Salads – 6-8:30pm. Chef Larry will pair delicious fresh ingredients with some unexpected accompaniments that will transform everyday salads into culinary works of art. $69. Different Drummer’s Kitchen, Stuyvesant Plaza, Albany. Preregister: 518-459-7990.Spiritual Living Circle – 7pm. Discussion of the March issue of Science of Mind magazine. Ask about a free 60-day online subscription to Science of Mind magazine. Love offering. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton. Info: 518-423-3569.

Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton. Info: 518-423-3569.

SUNDAY, MARCH 16

SUNDAY, MARCH 16Meditation for the World – 5:30-7:30pm. Con-nect with an international network of individuals who give value to the importance of generating peaceful, loving thoughts and feelings. All welcome. No meditation experience necessary. Peace Village, 54 O’Hara Rd, Rte 23A, Haines Falls. Info: 518-589-5000.

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TUESDAY, MARCH 18Beginner Signing Smart Play Class – 10:45-11:30am. A five week series providing a playful environment where parents or caregivers and their hearing children learn ASL signs and Signing Smart Strategies while playing and interacting. Ideal for children 6-24 months. $95 new families. $85 previ-ous beginner class participants. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Register: 518-274-2229.Access Consciousness Energetic Coaching – 7:15pm. What if change could be quick and fun; like deleting old files from the computer? Hosted by Transformational Specialist Barbra Gilman. $10. Joy of Yoga Studio, 376 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Registration required: 929-777-0873.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 7:45pm. Learn to make permanent changes in life and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other proven techniques used in a group setting. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19Pathways to Family Wellness Group Gathering – 10:30am. Learn truthful answers and share great dialogue on health issues for the whole family. Top-ics: starting the year in a healthy way, ultrasounds and autism, fertility and the mind-body connection. Ferguson Family Chiropractic, 1783 Rte 9, Clifton Park. Info: 518-383-5595.Green Building and Design Mixer – 5-7pm. Food, drink and music. Mingle with builders, contractors, realtors, bankers, attorneys, designers, architects, alternative energy providers, suppliers and educa-tors. Network and feel the energy of being around new ideas, concepts and products related to green building and design. Free. Hosted by Green Con-science Home and Garden, 33 Church St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-5196.Stress Anxiety: Physiological Impacts on the Body Nervous System – 6:30-8pm Lecture given by Dr. Heidi Rasmussen. Discussing the impacts of stress and anxiety on the body; looking at stress factors, pathologies and stress reduction methods. Time for QA. Space limited. Free. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.

FRIDAY, MARCH 21Exploration of Subtle Healing Energy – 5-9:30pm. Learn how to detect unbalanced energies in clients and how to initiate an impulse toward rebalancing and healing. $100. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone


Sacred Vibrational Healing Circle – 7-9pm. A mystical evening of sound and vibrational healing. Release deeply rooted stress and entrain one’s brain while sitting in the coherent energy fi eld generated by an advanced technology. No experience neces-sary. Benefi cial for all. $20. The Mandala Room, 596 New Loudon Rd, Newton Plaza, behind Starbucks, Latham. Info: 303-589-7208.

SATURDAY, MARCH 29Medical/Functional Massage: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome – 9am-5pm. Learn the A&P of the shoulder and neck and the applications of orthopedic medical evaluation tests for Thoracic Outlet Syn-drome. $135. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.Womb to World: Finding Support – 9:30am-1pm. Are you expecting? Discover what it means to truly take support and go deeper inside to connect, explore, process and embrace what it means to move into motherhood. $45. Conscious Movements, Albany. Register: 518-629-5664.EarthStone Hot Poultice Massage – 10am-7pm. Learn to use herbs with heat and pressure to relax and relieve tight, sore muscles. $210. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.LoveLift Class – 11am-3pm. Experience a dramatic energetic facelift that rejuvenates and reveals the light within, erasing years of “frozen emotions,” smooth-ing wrinkles and turning back the clock at any age. $150. Saratoga Spgs. Registration required. Transfor-mational specialist, Barbra Gilman: 929-777-0873.

SUNDAY, MARCH 30EarthStone Hot Stone Massage 2: Advanced Skills for Stoneworkers – 9am-6pm. For those who already practice hot stone massage and want to deepen their work and effectiveness of using hot stones. $210. Red Pines Training Center, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026.Energy of Belief – 2-4pm. Change the energetic patterns of limiting belief in your body that keep you stuck. $20 suggestion donation. Numinous, Shenen-

dehowa Adult Community Center, 6 Clifton Com-mon Court, Clifton Park. Register: 518-424-0406.The Power of YES – 2-4pm. Learn to say ‘yes’ from the heart and understand the value of dialogue in re-lationships. Peace Village Learning Retreat Center, Haines Falls. RSVP: 518-589-5000.

plan aheadFRIDAY, APRIL 4

FRIDAY, APRIL 4 – SATURDAY, APRIL 5

11th Great Gardens and Landscaping Sym-posium – Apr 4-5. 9am-4pm. Six dynamic gar-dening lectures by nationally known speakers, gourmet luncheon buffet, handouts, garden gifts, door prizes and a Gardeners Marketplace. Day only and overnight symposium packages starting at $89/pp. The Equinox Resort, Manchester, VT. Preregistration required. Info: 207-502-7228 or pyours.com/symposium.

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SATURDAY, APRIL 12

SATURDAY, APRIL 12 - SUNDAY, APRIL 13

Tapping Stress Reduction Workshop – General Public 9am-5pm/Sat; Professionals 9am-5pm/Sun. Learn simple “Touch and Breathe” tap-ping techniques to fi nd immediate physical and psychological relief by interfacing mind and body with conscious breathing. Day 2 for pros to learn to use with clients. Bring a friend and save $25 off every session! $125/175. Mandala Room, 596 New Loudon Road, Newton Plaza, Latham. Info and registration: MarySise.com.

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SATURDAY, MAY 10

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

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SATURDAY, MAY 31Inner & Outer Beauty Expo – 10am-5pm. Meet people who offer premium holistic well-being services. Readings, hand-crafts, organic cosmetics, herbs, oils, snacks, raffl es and kids’ activities. Holiday Inn Express, 400 Old Loudon Rd, Latham. Info: 518-788-7062.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27Infant Massage – 10am. Learn some specialized techniques that have bonding benefits for both baby and parent. $10 donation. Sage-Femme Mid-wifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Register, Suzi: 518-813-9290.Cancer Support Group – 12-1pm. See Mar 13 for details. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624. Dream Circle for Healing and Self Awareness– 7:30-9pm. Explore one’s dream-life and use its messages to improve life and to connect with soul. Janine DeTillio Cammarata leads participants through the Lightening Dream Process. Ages 15 and up. $10 one week in advance. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565. Rhythm of the Dance – 8pm. Featuring traditional Irish step dancing, songs, instruments and brilliant costumes. $15. Proctor’s Theatre, 432 State St, Schenectady. Tickets: Proctors.org.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27 Level 2 Reiki with Lynn Gelman – Mar 27 and Apr 3. 6:30-9pm. $175/new students. $145/Lynn’s Level 1 Students. Crossroads Gifts Wellness, 133 Jay St, Schenectady. Register: 518-357-8366.

FRIDAY, MARCH 28Open House at Community Massage Holistic Therapies – 5-7pm. Meet the practitioners, learn about variety of services available and explore the comforting space. Offering chair massage and a raffl e. Featuring photography by John O’Neill. Free. Part of Troy Night Out. 255 River St, Troy. Info: 518-272-1400.Community Movie Night: Food Matters – 7-8:30pm. Documentary examines how the food we eat can help or hurt people’s health. Nutritionists, naturopaths, doctors and journalists weigh in on topics like organic food, food safety, raw foodism and nutritional therapy. Free. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd. RSVP: 518-435-1280.


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

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

sundayGuided Yoga and Meditation Practices – 8-9:30am. First Unitarian Society of Schenectady. Free. 1221 Wendell Ave, Schenectady. Info: 518-374-4446.Dharma Meditation – 9am. Weekly meditation fol-lowed up by short discussion. About 75-min. All contem-plative traditions honored. $10 donation. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624.Sunday Morning Nia Dance – 10-11am. Start the week off energized and refreshed with a joyfully free spirit and move with passion. Connect to body through the movement of dance. $18/class. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. Info: 518-452-3679.Medium, Psychic or Animal Communication Readings – 12-5pm.Walk-ins welcome but ap-pointments suggested. Peaceful Inspirations, 384 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. Info: 518-439-7039.Dr Joe on the Radio – 12:45pm. Dr Joseph Guylas of Northeast Spine and Wellness gives his weekly radio show including tips for better health. Tune in to 101.3 FM.Young Audience Planetarium Show: The Sky Above Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood – 1pm. Explore the wonders of the sky. For preschool audiences. Ad-mission plus $5. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Ter Hts, Schenectady. Info: 518-382-7890.Yoga of 12 Step Recovery (Y12SR) – 3-5pm. 1st Sun. Group sharing circle and themed yoga class integrating wisdom of yoga and the practical tools of 12-step programs. $12-$16 donation. Shanti Yoga, 135 2nd St, Troy. Info: 518-365-5660.Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 4-5:30pm. Expand awareness, strengthen body, increase stam-ina and elevate consciousness through movement, asana, powerful pranayama and deep meditation. Drop-in classes. Heartspace Yoga, 747 Madison Ave, Albany. Info: 518-712-9642.

tuesdayChronic Low Milk Supply Support Group – 10am. 4th Tues. Challenged with breastfeeding due to chronic low milk supply? Talk with other moms to receive and provide support. Free. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. Register: Sage-Femme’s Facebook Event Page.Body Fat Screening/Blood Pressure Testing – 11am-2pm. Personal Trainer Jeff Grayson Miller has instruments to test body fat and blood pressure and the know-how to translate those numbers into healthy information. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. Info: 518-482-2667.Pilates: Basic Mat Class – 5:30pm. Healing With Movement Pilates, 2021 Western Ave, Albany. $20/class. Penny: 518 669-9677.Belly Dancing – 5:30-7pm. Thru Apr 8. Low-impact workout. Beginners-all ages. Wear comfortable clothing. BYO socks/soft dance shoes or dance barefoot. $66 members; $72 nonmembers. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Info: 518-273-0552.Lyme Support Group – 6pm. 2nd Tues. Share sto-ries, frustrations and achievements. Find support and guidance. All welcome. Free. The Stram Center for Integrative Medicine, 388 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. Register: 518 689-2244.Tea Talk – 6pm. 2nd Tues. New topics each month. Samples of the featured tea served. $5. Short and Stout Tea, 1736a Western Ave, Albany. Preregister/Info: 518-456-8327.Our Path to Forgiveness Class – 6:30pm. Apr 1-22. Experience spiritual growth through forgiveness. Discover powerful healing taking place through this journey. Experience freedom from the past. By donation. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton. Register: 518-423-3569.Awareness Through Movement: For EveryBODY – 6:30-7:30pm. Discover gentle movement sequenc-es to create immediate improvements in personal awareness, posture, balance and flexibility. $15.

Restorative Yoga Workshop – 7-8:45pm. Last Sun. Receive the support of pillows, bolsters, blankets and loving hands while resting in healing yoga postures. Regenerate, repair and recover. $25. Paid one week in advance. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.

mondayBaby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 9-10am. All fitness levels: pregnant moms, those recovering from pregnancy and those with stroller-aged children. Cardio drills, strength training exercises and stretch-ing. First class free. Clifton Park. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Baby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 9:30-10:30am. All fitness levels: pregnant moms, those recovering from pregnancy and those with stroller-aged chil-dren. Cardio drills, strength training exercises and stretching. First class free. Loudonville. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Tai Chi – 5:30-7pm. Thru May 5. Tai Chi is a mind and body fitness practice used by many to promote health and wellness, reduce stress and help cope with a variety of health issues. $10/drop-in. The Arts Center of the Capital Region, 265 River St, Troy. Info: 518-273-0552.Hot Warrior Yoga – 6pm. 50 plus posture practice combining hot hatha and hot vinyasa in an 85-degree room. A physical and psychological challenge. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Baby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 6-7pm. All fitness lev-els: pregnant moms, those recovering from pregnancy and those with stroller-aged children. Cardio drills, strength training exercises and stretching. First class free. Loudonville. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Meditation by Donation – 6-7pm. Basic meditation instruction and introduction to the format of Zazen practice. Two 20-30-minute sitting meditations, short walking meditation and chanting. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Register: 518-595-3067.

Publisher Carolyn Coogan was recently a guest on Tune In To Wellness Today, a

regular Schenectady Access TV show hosted by LisaMarie Tersigni of Inspiring Wellness

Solutions, LLC. View episodes online at sacc.tv.


Conscious Movements, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Register: 518-629-5664.Holistic Healthy Living Group Program – 6:30-8pm. Begins Mar 11. For people ready to beat disease, become energized, lose weight, feel great and live well. for three months. Info: 518-880-6707.Hypnosis Workshop – 6:30-9:30pm. Find out more about hypnosis with NGH hypnosis instructor, George Guarino. $12.50. Albany. Info: 518-256-6549.An Evening with the Docs – 7pm. 2nd Tues. Eve-ning of wine and cheese discussing current health care topics. Bring a friend. AAC Family Wellness, 402 Rowland St, Ballston Spa. Info: 518-363-0202.

wednesdayBaby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 9-10am. See Monday for details. Clifton Park. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Awareness Through Movement: For Moms and More – 9:30-10:30am. Gentle movements designed to help one feel better and to provide breathing space needed as an active mother. $15. Conscious Movements, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Register: 518-629-5664.Baby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 9:30-10:30am. See Monday for details. Loudonville. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Living Healthy NY: Community Workshops – 9:30am-12pm. Thru Apr 9. A series on chronic disease self-management. Free. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave, Delmar. Info: Com-munity Caregivers, 518-456-2898.Intuitive Readings with Julie – 11am-2pm. By ap-pointment. $40/30-min. Crossroads Gifts and Well-ness, 133 Jay St, Schenectady. Info: 518-357-8366.Detox Flow – 4:15-5:30pm.With Colleen. Twists, massage and conscious breathing to assist the elimi-nation systems. Purge toxic thoughts. Experience a calmer mind and a clearer connection of body, mind and spirit. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 5:45-7:15pm. Expand awareness, strengthen body, increase stam-ina and elevate consciousness through movement, asana, powerful pranayama and deep meditation. Drop-in classes. Heartspace Yoga, 10 Second St, 2nd Flr, Troy. Info: 518-712-9642.Family Support Group: for Caregivers of Loved Ones with Mental Illness – 6:30-8pm. 1st and 3rd Wed. SUNYA School of Public Health, 1 University Pl, Rensselaer. Info: 518-588-6949.Tea and Qigong – 7-8:30pm. With Dr Wang. Chi-nese medicinal tea sampling and movement. $15. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518- 581-3180.

thursdayBreastfeeding Support Group – 10:30am-12pm. 1st Thurs. For moms their breastfed babies and toddlers with a certified lactation counselor available to answer any questions or concerns. Anyone pregnant and thinking about breastfeed-ing welcome. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Info: 518-274-2229.Awareness Through Movement: For Chronic Pain

– 12-1pm. Designed for those experiencing chronic pain. Gentle movement sequences, mindfulness practices and a supportive community. Limited to five participants. $15. Conscious Movements, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Register: 518-629-5664.Kid’s Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. Develop strength, coor-dination, density for growing bones, flexibility for muscle resilience and maximum nutrient absorption. Learn relaxation techniques and more. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Pilates: Intermediate Mat Class – 5:30pm. Heal-ing With Movement Pilates, 2021 Western Ave, Albany. $20/class. Penny: 518 669-9677.Baby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 6-7pm. See Monday for details. Loudonville. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.The Compassionate Brain – 6-8pm. Thru Mar 6. Eight-part lecture/discussion series. Audio presenta-tion followed by a discussion and instruction in a related meditation practice. Register for individual sessions or entire series. Donations welcomed. Solid Ground Center for a Balanced Life, 148 Central Ave, Albany. Register: 518-339-9443.Holistic Healthy Living Group Program – 6:30-8pm. Begins Mar 13. For people ready to beat disease, become energized, lose weight, feel great and live well. Twice monthly for three months. Info: 518-880-6707.Meditation and Mindfulness Practice Group – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Thurs. All welcomed. All levels of experience welcome. Free. Solid Ground Center for a Balanced Life, 148 Central Ave, Albany. Info: 518-339-9443.E-Squared Class – 7-9:30pm. Thru Apr 3. Shape personal reality with creative thoughts. Class based on Pam Grout’s #1 New York Times Bestseller list book E-Squared Nine Do-It-Yourself Energy Ex-periments That Prove Your Thoughts Create Your Reality. Offered by New Thought New York by donation. Limited space. Pine Hollow Arboretum, Slingerlands, Preregister: Regina Wagner-Garhartt, 518-466-6846.

fridayBaby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 9-10am. See Monday for details. Clifton Park. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Baby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 9:30-10:30am. See Monday for details. Loudonville. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Kundalini Yoga – 9:30-11am. Taught by Yogi Bha-jan, Kim Rossi. Donation. Lincoln Bath House at the Saratoga Spa State Park, front door entrance; walk to the rear of the 1st Flr, 39 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-321-5660.Family Yoga – 5pm. Families connect through yoga with storytelling and silly, songs, breathing tech-niques, family partner poses, healthy educational tips, creative sequences and meditation. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Hot Warrior Yoga – 5:30pm. See Monday for details. $15. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Parents’ Night Out at Tiny Tots Tea Room – 5:30-9pm. 3rd Fri. Monthly event includes babysitting,

open play, food, crafts and drinks. $35 first child; $25 siblings. 1536 Crescent Rd, Plaza 8, Clifton Park. Info: 518-348-1050.Sound Meditation Group – 6:30-8pm. 2nd Friday. Sound is a powerful form of healing. Group experiences the benefits of sound meditation by practicing mantras. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Chat it Up – 7-8pm. Begins Mar 9. Explore solu-tions for life’s challenges through group co-shared experiences and insight and guidance by LisaMarie, Holistic Health Counselor and Reiki Master. $8. Info: 518-880-6707.Sacred Drum Circle – 7:30pm. 1st Fri. Gather in a circle, light a candle for one’s intention and let the heart be guided into the heartbeat rhythm. Drumming is healing and a powerful sound meditation. No experience necessary. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. RSVP: 518-744-5565.

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. Info: DelmarMarket.org.Holistic Healthy Living Group Program – 10-11:30am. Begins Mar 15. For people ready to beat disease, become energized, lose weight, feel great and live well. Twice monthly for three months. Info: 518-880-6707.Chakra Yoga – 10am. Raise energy, improve well-being and expand consciousness through balancing the chakras in the body. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Medium, Psychic or Animal Communication Readings – 10am-6pm. Walk-ins welcome, but appointments suggested. Peaceful Inspirations, 384 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. Info: 518-439-7039.Planetarium Show: More Than Meets the Eye – 11am and 2pm. Explore planets and deep-sky objects with binoculars and four or eight-inch telescopes. Includes a live segment about the current seasonal sky. Admission plus $5. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Ter Hts, Schenectady. Info: 518-382-7890.Hooping Saturdays – 12pm. Fitness, fun and great music. Learn basic hooping skills, tricks how to use this simple tool/toy. Strengthen the body, melt away calories and relieve stress. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.The 5 Tibetan Rites of Rejuvenation – 12-12:30pm. System handed down from Tibetan lamas. Five pos-tures with ancient breath repeated 21 times. Reputed to strengthen the body, enhance energy, regenerate body and mind and stem the aging process. $8. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 7:45pm. 3rd Sat. Make permanent life changes and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other proven techniques used. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.


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

ACUPUNCTURE

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

All-natural care providing pain relief and wellness care through acupuncture, massage therapy, laser therapy and acupressure. Experience in women’s health, insomnia, stress, migraines and fibromyalgia. See ad, page 10.

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

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

well-being, facial rejuvenation. See ad, page 44.

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 34.

ART THERAPY

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

Ann uses Therapeutic Art to subdue mood, elevate self-esteem, and give voice to children and adults shut down but deeply trying to express themselves. She has over 18 years of experience counseling for grief, trauma and life change. Ann offers sand tray work as

another avenue of artistic and symbolic expression to assist clients of all ages.

ASTROLOGY

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

Radio talk-show host, teacher and astrologer for over 25 years. Consciously sort out relationships, health, career and all life altering situations through the natal chart.

BODYWORK

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

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

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

Bodywork Professionals are sk i l l ed , ded ica ted , ca ree r therapists who specialize in the art and science of effective soft tissue massage therapy and a variety of bodywork moralities. See ad, page 15.

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.

naturaldirectoryCEREMONIES

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

Rev. Kay joyfully co-creates and officiates ceremonies for all loving and committed partners; taking the time to get to know you, what's important to you, and how you envision your event; whether large/small, traditional/non-traditional,

interfaith/non-denominational or civil. LGBT friendly.

CHIROPRACTIC

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

The “Chiropractor for your family”. With 10 years of pediatric/family wellness care experience, Dr. John is committed to healthy lifestyle changes for the family. See ad, page 9.

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 10.

DR. KERSTIN MEDWIN, DCAt Albany Total Wellness130 Everett Rd, Albany518-435-1280 • MedwinChiropractic.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 34.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

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

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


ENERGY HEALING

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

Joyce brings to her Reiki practice her knowledge and experience in dealing with chronic and acute health issues as well as her passion for focusing on the health and wellness of the individual. See ad, page 28.

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 21.

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

Lynn is a certified fitness instructor, healing touch practitioner and Reiki II practitioner. She also teaches energy yoga classes. See ad, page 15.

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 32.

FENG SHUI/SPACE CLEARING

BRENDA C. JENKS518-321-5940FengShuiBCJ.com

Brenda will assess physical and non-physical influences in your home or business and then suggest appropriate adjustments to ensure your environment supports you physically, emotionally and financially. 18 plus years serving the Capital District and beyond.

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 15.

JOY OF NIA MOVEMENTBeth FosterOwner & Licensed Nia Instructor3 Denny Rd, Guilderland518-452-3679 • JoyOfNiaMovement.com

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

studio open to all fitness levels. See ad, page 36.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

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

Functional Medicine is a dynamic approach to assessing, preventing and treating complex chronic disease. It is science-based and patient-centered. See ad, page 29.

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 55.

GRIEF/LOSS

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

Bernard has been working over 18 years in the field of grief, loss and life transition counseling. He assists in the ripple effects of these changes and in formulating new, healthy beginnings for his clients. Areas of focus: job loss/change, divorce/separation, disease diagnosis, pet

loss, depression, PTSD, and sudden death loss.

GROCERY

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

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

1995. See ad, page 6.

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 55.

HEALING

HANDS THAT HEAL – PRANIC HEALING2 Stanton St, Ste 401, Troy • [email protected]

Pranic Healing is a no-touch, no-drug healing modality. Experience healing for physical, emotional, psychological, financial, and relationship issues. Learn a powerful meditation on twin hearts. See ad, page 12.


HOMEOPATHY

JEROME MICHAEL PINDELLNiskayuna, Clifton Park & [email protected]

J e r o m e M . P i n d e l l u s e s homeopathy, hypnosis, jin shin jyutsu, and intuit ive based counseling in a comprehensive wholistic healing practice. He is also a poet and author of Training Tracks, poems by implosion, available through Amazon.com.

HYPNOSIS

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

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

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

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

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

menopause, low testosterone, thyroid and adrenal disorders, fi bromyalgia/chronic fatigue, irritable bowel. See ad, page 11.

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 17.

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 9.

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 15.

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.

LIFE COACH

BARBRA [email protected]

Offering the energy tools of Access Consciousness; easy, fast and fun. Learn how to shift any area of your life; allowing you to be more. Complementary initial mini session.

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

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

LIFE PURPOSE

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

Coaching women to effectively discover strength and wisdom to support the body, mind and spirit; especially during life changes including retirement, divorce, chronic illness, grief and loss. See ad, page 17.

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 6.

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 34.

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched — they must be felt with the heart.

~Helen Keller


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 18.

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 36.

MICHAEL E. CATELLIER JR.Inspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Michael is a NYS licensed massage therapist offer ing customized massage and body work for medical, sports, fi tness and therapeutic needs. See ad, page 15.

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 p rofess iona l and peacefu l atmosphere, enhanced with local art and natural foliage. Relax and

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

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 15.

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

Offering NYS recognized Massage Therapy Training Programs. Full/Part t ime schedules. NYS Approved Continuing Education Classes. Quality learning environment. Student Clinic open to the public.See ad, page 25.

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.

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

Local Care Midwifery, PLLC is an independent midwifery practice offering quality women's health care and planned home birth services. Considering home birth? Call us for a free consult.

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

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

Capital District since 1987. See ad, page 31.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

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

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

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

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

Studio (North Greenbush). See ad, page 37.

MYSTIC

IKIERA DIVINE HOLISTIC HEALING ARTS518-210-0402 • [email protected] • IkieraHealing.com

The Mystic Satprem is a meditation Master and healing Teacher with 40 years of therapeutic training in India. Her experiences help you in fi nding your true nature, achieving enhanced holistic well-being,

awakening you to higher consciousness, and encouraging you to lead a joyful life. Individual and group sessions are available.

NATURAL BEAUTY

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

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


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 9.

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 15.

ORGANIC SALON

ADRIANE BALLAt The Beauty Society123 Dunning St, Malta518-222-1007

Providing an all-natural, organic salon experience using ammonia free, non-toxic hair color & products. Revive the natural beauty of your hair by calling Adriane today. See ad, page 35.

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 7.

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 44.

PERMANENT MAKEUPL. SprattAt Rumors, Latham518-786-1777 • AwakeUpWithMakeup.com

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

NATURAL MATERNITY/BABY

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

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

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

Eco-friendly baby and maternity boutique. Babywearing, toys

and gifts, maternity/nursing items, handmade, socially responsible inventory. Classes and events for parents and parents-to-be. See ad, page 45.

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.

Coming Next Month

To advertise or

participate in our

April edition, call

518-729-0099

Green Living

Starts atHome

Local natural-health and sustainability advocates show

us how.


A Few Drops Can Change Your Life!

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OSTEOPATHIC & FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

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

Dr. Rasmussen approaches m e d i c i n e w i t h a m i n d f u l dedication, taking the time for in-depth examination and healing practices. See ad, page 14.

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 13.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

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

The McKenzie Method is an active patient involvement and education system for back, neck and extremity pain. Its methodology is backed by therapists/doctors worldwide. See ad, page 16.

PILATES

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

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

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY

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

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

issues. Individual and group session available.

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 15.


RECOVERY

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

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

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER

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

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

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

SOMATIC PRACTITIONER

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 34.

SPECIALTY TEAS

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

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

SPIRITUAL CENTER

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

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

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

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

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

SPIRITUAL MENTORING

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

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

SUSTAINABLE FINANCE

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

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

SIPC, MSRB, SIFMA. Office of Supervisory Jurisdiction (OSJ): 800 Brickell Ave, Ste 903, Miami, FL.] See ad, page 26.

THERMOGRAPHY

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

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

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 15.

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 10.

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

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

with 20 years of experience.

WORKSHOPS/RETREATS

BONA FIDE BUTTERFLIES518-532-0275BonafideButterflies.com

Empowering workshops and 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.


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

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. See ad, page 17.

YOGA

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

Heartspace is a community-oriented studio offering yoga and healing arts from a range of traditions. Instruction for all levels, daily drop-in classes, workshops, special events, and yoga teacher training programs

in Albany and Troy. See ad, page 12.

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

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

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

ANDIE KEENANInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Andie is a certifi ed vinyasa yoga instructor specializing in low impact yoga. In-home classes possible. See ad, page 15.

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

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

tions for all levels.

KUNDALINI YOGA ALBANYClasses in Albany & TroySat Kriya Kaur • 518-712-9642 SatKriyaKaur.wix.com/kundaliniyoga

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

in classes. Visit website for locations and class times.

SOLUNA YOGA STUDIO2317 Balltown Rd, Niskayuna518-429-1455SolunaYoga.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 37.

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

A welcoming, safe, healing space to nourish your whole being. Gentle to challenging yoga classes, as well as Chair and

Restorative Yoga, Thai Yoga Bodywork, Goddess Events, Meditation, Workshops and Retreats. See ad, page 36

DONATIONSNEEDED – Coats, jackets, blankets, hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, bedding, wash clothes, towels, toi-let paper, diapers and more. LITD Warehouse Min-istry, 5 Catherine St, Schenectady. 518-334-2347.

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

HELP WANTEDADMIN – Friendly, organized, person for PT Ad-ministrative Assistant position in small functional medicine practice. May also do some work from home. Guilderland. Anita Burock Stotts, MD. 518-355-2060.MASSAGE THERAPY FACULTY – Mildred Elley, Albany, NY. Details, requirements and how to apply: Mildred-Elley.edu/careers.MUST LOVE PETS – Professional Lead Pet Sit-ter. Must be at least 21 and live in Schenectady or Niskayuna. [email protected].

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

MASSAGEFREE MASSAGE DEAL – Buy 1 hour/$68, get second hour/FREE. Love & Gratitude Therapeutic Massage, Madison Ave, Albany. 518-475-2805.

RELATIONSHIPSSEEKING SPIRITUAL LADY – Troy, NY. 33, SM for open minded SF; let’s share meditation, laughter and love. 518-419-2765.

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

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

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

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

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Documents

Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District - March 2014