natural awakenings of the ny capital district - april 2014

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

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Special Edition

Green Living

April 2014 | NY Capital District Edition | AlbanyAwakenings.com

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Eco-Cleaning RECIPESKeep Your Home Naturally Clean

BACKYARD WILDLIFENative Habitats Draw

Critters and Delight Kids

Budget-Savvy& Green

Five Life ChoicesWe Can Make Now

2 NY Capital District AlbanyAwakenings.com

3natural awakenings April 2014


Natural Awakenings of the NY Capital District

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

AlbanyAwakenings.com

PublisherCarolyn Coogan

Editors S. Alison Chabonais

Martin MironJacqueline Wright

Contributing WriterWesley Delanoy

Contributing PhotographerKatie Duff

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letterfrompublisher

This month’s special Green Living issue

is dedicated to our community and our

planet. We’ve packed it with empowering

tips and inspiring information to aid us all in

thoughtfully and lovingly embracing a more

Earth-friendly and sustainable lifestyle.

On April 22, more than one billion

people will be honoring Earth Day, making

it the largest civic observance in the world. If you’re wondering how you can

get involved, be sure to check out the local community events we spotlight on

page 18.

Spring is a great time to begin composting if you aren’t already. This month’s

Business Spotlight article on Albany-based Empire Zero Waste can help you get

started. Whether it’s composting, recycling or simply bringing your own bags to

the grocery store, by taking one new step at a time, we can all make decided

changes that we feel good about. Every one adds up in helping to preserve a

livable planet for generations to come.

From cover to cover, Natural Awakenings strives to honestly represent its

mission as a true healthy living magazine aligned with sustainable principles.

Few people realize the environmental impact of glossy magazines. Toxic volatile

organic compounds (VOC) are typically used in their production and emitted

as harmful gases. Natural Awakenings’ family of over 90 magazines across the

country are leading the way to what industries refer to as “best practice” printing

on 100 percent recycled, uncoated, non-glossy paper using only soy ink. We are

different and proud of it!

Because healthy living is green and green living is healthy, we have infinite

opportunities to keep growing together. Good health and harmony throughout

life results from honest self-examination in an era when most of us major in self-

justification to excuse bad habits. Today is a perfect moment to choose to start

feeling better. Natural Awakenings stands ready to connect you with the integrative

doctors and healing practitioners that can help. This month, we are particularly

happy to introduce everyone to the wise counsel of Amy Cole, a doctor of

naturopathy in East Greenbush.

May this issue inspire you to get outside, connect with Earth’s bounty and

continue on a daily path toward a greener, healthier and happier life experience.

Here’s to a month full of promise for us all,

Carolyn Coogan, PublisherCarolyn Coogan, Publisher


17

18 CELEBRATE EARTH DAY 2014

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle to Renew the Health of Our Planet

20 EARTH MUSIC Saving Nature’s Wild Symphony by Bernie Krause

22 GOOD RIDDANCE TO BAD VIBES Escaping Electromagnetic Exposure by Priscilla Goudreau-Santos

24 LIVE GREEN, SAVE BIG

Five Eco-Friendly Life Decisions that Can Actually Save Us Money by Crissy Trask

27 HOMEMADE ECO-CLEANERS DIY Recipes Keep Your Home Naturally Clean by Lane Vail

30 BACKYARD BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES Native Habitats Draw Critters and Delight Kids by Avery Mack

32 JUNGLE GYM Moving Like Animals Can Wildly Improve Fitness by Debra Melani

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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

14 healthbriefs

16 ecotip

17 globalbriefs

20 inspiration

21 community spotlight 22 healingways 26 nonprofitspotlight 27 greenliving 29 businessspotlight

30 healthykids

32 fitbody

34 calendar

39 naturaldirectory

46 classifieds

that Can Actually Save Us Money30

24

27

15

16

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newsbriefsCancer Support Group at One Big Roof

A cancer diagnosis can be shocking and traumatic,

and survivorship requires many skills to navigate the journey toward well-being. A cancer support group is a safe place to explore common physical, financial, emotional, cognitive, developmental, familial and spiritual issues. At One Big Roof, in Saratoga Springs, a group facili-tated by Pierre Zimmerman meets every other Thursday. Visit the website calendar for updates and postings. Skills of resiliency, empathy and being seen and under-stood are addressed, as are inter-connectedness, intimacy and new attitudes and possibilities cultivated to face and release feelings of isolation, confusion, anxiety and day-to-day uncertainties in a group of people with similar wishes to improve the quality of their lives. Zimmerman has been working for 12 years with people that have cancer, leading support groups, mindfulness-based stress reduction programs and spiritual retreats. He is also is a survivor of stage 4 cancer, diagnosed in 2001 and given a few months to live. He says, “Many people affected by a cancer diagnosis and its treatments are looking for support, resources and resilience in the midst of illness.”

Location: 433 Broadway, Ste. 302, Saratoga Springs. Contact Zimmerman at 518-450-1624 or for more information, visit OneRoofSaratoga.com.

First Anniversary Celebration at Troy’s ‘Urban Oasis’

Community Massage & Holistic Therapies, in Troy, is celebrating its

first anniversary in April. An open house event will take place during Troy Night Out from 5 to 8 p.m., April 25, with free chair massage, a raffle prize draw-ing and light snacks and refreshments. Guests can learn about the variety of healing therapies available and how they can provide pain relief and deep relaxation to feel better now. Owner Kathleen Vroman, NYS, LMT, is providing special offers and discounts throughout the month, including customer appreciation discounts, loyalty rewards and referral bonuses. She says, “You will have an opportunity to meet our practitioners, explore the comforting space we’ve created, and enjoy beautiful local art from one of our many talented community artists.”

Location: 255 River St. (lower level). For more information, call 518-272-1400 or visit TroyCommunityMassage.com. See ad, page 8.

Dr Emu’s Rx for Pain, STOPS PAIN PLUS, has been reported to give relief from:

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Shop online for this and other natural products at:NAWebstore.com or call: 888-822-0246Wholesale pricing available for stores and practitioners


Jack Treiber

Classes on Energy for Health and Healing

Jack Treiber is a personal

energy advisor and certified energy practitio-ner in practice as Energy for Health & Heal-ing, LLC, in downtown Sara-toga Springs and Clifton Park. This month, he will present two sessions of the class, Introduction to Energy for Health & Healing: Practical Tips for Taking Charge of Your Health. The first takes place from 6:30 to 9 p.m., April 7, where stu-dents will learn about the energy system and why it’s so important to health, as well as a powerful and practical acupressure tapping technique. Treiber will demon-strate how to use energy to test the compatibility of foods with our system, and will demonstrate an energy assessment of some volunteers. Cost is $11. Register by calling the Saratoga Springs School District Continuing Educa-tion at 518-583-4782. The class will also be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m., April 28, at 5 Chelsea Place, in Clifton Park. Cost is $12. Register by calling Shenendehowa Community Edu-cation at 518-881-0444. Treiber says, “Energy is the vital life force that activates every function and drives every process in the human body. Stu-dents will learn about our energy system and why it is so important to our physical, emotional and spiritual health.”

For more information, call 518-225-4692 or visit EnergyForHealthandHealing.com. See ad, page 20.


newsbriefsKathleen Vroman LMT, NCTMB - Owner

518.272.1400 www.TroyCommunityMassage.com

Looking for...• Pain relief?• Stress relief? • Quiet relaxation?

Welcome to your

Urban Oasis!

• Discover effective therapies for pain relief, deep relaxation and healing • Experience therapeutic massage, myofascial bodywork, reflexology, craniosacral therapy, aromatherapy and paraffin treatments, all in a comforting and slow-paced atmosphere • Enjoy local art and natural foliage in a unique gallery setting

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DermaClear will simply feel good putting it on. Cooling and soothing, the Calcium Montmorillonite/Calcium Bentonite clay penetrates pores and open areas of the skin and pulls out toxins and inflammation.

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Order Online Today atNAWebstore.com

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4-oz jar-$29.99+ $5 shipping-up to 5 jars

Wholesale Pricing Available to Stores and Practitioners

Dharma Talk with Sharon Salzberg

Sharon Salzberg, a master teacher of meditation for more than 30 years, co-

founder of the Insight Meditation society, the Forest Refuge and the Barre Center for Buddhist studies, will deliver a dharma talk, Lovingkindness in the Face of Ad-versity, from 7 to 9 p.m., May 4, at First Unitarian Universalist Society, in Albany. Salzberg sees mindfulness prac-tices as key to controlling the damage from the ups and downs of daily life. In particular, developing and expanding our capacity for loving kindness and compassion are strengths in the face of adversity. She stresses that these two qualities serve to build happiness and contentment when dealing with issues such as physical illness, emotional upheaval, negativity from oth-ers or unfairness in how we are treated. Rather than being viewed as passive or submissive states, loving kindness and compassion allow for thoughtful action and inner resilience. Organizers, Solid Ground Center for a Balanced Life and Organizing Mindfulness of the Capital Region (OM), note that the evening will consist of guided meditations, talks and time for questions and answers.

Admission is free. Location: 405 Washington Ave. For information and questions, call 518-339-9443 or email [email protected].

Sharon Salzberg

Learn the Celtic Ways of the Wise

Reverend Lady Tiamat will host a five-day weekend-only spiri-

tual workshop from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 24, 25, June 21, 22 and August 2, in Guilderland. This experiential time is designed to start participants on an ancient path, encouraging spiritual connec-tion to the divine power within, and offering tools and rituals for future use. It will provide a safe and nurturing environment to work with intuition, energy, power and intention. Students will learn energy techniques such as grounding and shielding for personal empowerment; learn to create and cast a sacred space; learn basic ritual techniques; and con-nect with spirit helpers, guides, guardians and a like-minded community of practitioners.

For registration, location information and additional classes, call Ruth Brown at 518-256-4933, email [email protected] or visit ClanOfTheDragon.com.


Retreats for Female Veterans at Peaceful Acres

Peaceful Acres Horses (PAH) will

be offering three Wellness and Reju-venation Retreats for women veterans at its 156-acre wellness sanctuary for people and horses between June and October. Through a collaborative effort with the Stratton VA Women’s Center, other orga-nizations serving women veterans and charitable contributions, PAH will hold restoration weekends that include yoga, guided meditation, nature walks, Reiki, nutritious meals and Equine Guided Experiential Learning activities. Expanding wellness programs at Peaceful Acres Horses has been a focus for two years. After receiving seed money to fund the first retreat from a “giving circle” of philanthropic women, female veterans will now be served.

Location: 3740 Rynex Corners Rd., Pattersonville. Email Nanci Beyerl, MSW founder and executive director, at [email protected] to inquire about referrals or sponsoring a veteran into the program. Female vet-erans should email Amy Provencher at [email protected] to register for a retreat or visit PeacefulAcresHorses.com. See ad, page 3.

Watch Out for Wonder Woman Syndrome

A free community class, Wonder Woman Syndrome: The Power of the Nervous System and Women’s

Health, will be held from 6 to 7 p.m., April 9, at Albany Total Wellness. Dr. Kerstin Medwin, owner of Medwin Chiropractic, will discuss how the nervous system affects women’s health and how they can learn to harness the power of their bodies to become stronger and healthier. Medwin will teach students how to diagnose what she calls the “Wonder Woman Syndrome”, and how it af-

fects different health issues that women face.

Location: 130 Everett Rd., Albany. To RSVP, call 518-435-1280. For more informa-tion, visit MedwinChiropractic.com. See ad, page 22.

Michael Ward’s Students Prepare for Mini Jam

Michael Ward, a guitar instructor at

Rocky’s Music Studio, in North Greenbush, and the Patrizio Center for the Arts, in Latham, specializes in rock, blues and jazz for chil-dren ages 6 and up. For Ward’s new and existing students at Rocky’s, preparations begin this month for performances at their annual Summer Mini Jam concert from 4 to 6 p.m., June 7. Students of all ages and levels get to take the skills they have been working on in lessons and put them to use in a performance with other students. “It’s really exciting for everyone,” shares Ward. “We film and record the concert and put it out on CDs and DVDs afterwards. We also setup professional lighting so that the students feel like they are performing at a real concert.”

Concert location: Woodland Hill Montessori School, 100 Montesorri Pl., Rens-selaer. To enroll a child in classes with Ward, call 518-369-6365, email or visit MikeWardGuitar.com. The first lesson is free. See ad, page 36.


newsbriefs

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

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

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

Patricia Luccardi ctt, LMt, cNMt

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

enough to use preventive measures.

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

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

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

Day of Pampering at Vitality Health Center

Vitality Health Center, in Scotia, will host

its fourth “day of pam-pering” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 to 4 p.m., April 5, for anyone that needs a break from a hectic life. The event has become so popular that it is now offered every month. More pamper-ing dates are scheduled for May 10 and June 14. Participants will enjoy a relaxing massage, be treated to a luxurious facial, have fun with an insightful life reading and have toxins removed during a relaxing IonCleanse foot bath. Healthy foods, smoothies and cheer are also included. Vitality Health Center is a full-service wellness destination comprised of a growing specialty food, herb and pharmaceu-tical-grade supplement department, ongoing yoga classes, massage therapy appointments and nutritional and detoxifi-cation services. Owners Anne J. DeRocher, CN, and Susan Brown, MS Eng, BS, CN, combine their years of education and experience to help people to reach their innate ability to heal themselves through the power of herbs and whole foods.

The cost is $109 (over $199 in value). Location: 3441 Am-sterdam Rd. (Rte. 5), Scotia. For more information, call 518-372-4706 or visit GetVitalHealth.com.

Celebrate with Crossroads Gifts & Wellness

Crossroads Gifts & Wellness is observ-

ing their first year on Jay Street, on the pedestrian walkway in downtown Schenectady, with an anniversary and Earth Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., April 19 and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., April 20.

The shop originally opened in 2007 in Duanesburg before its relocation to Schenectady last year. Elisabeth Rolfe, proprietress, says, “Our new space has allowed us to expand the selection of our unique spiritual, wellness and locally made gift and food items.” The added square footage has also allowed for more special events and classes, Reiki sessions and Reiki training. Crossroads’ Facebook page contains more information about free tree seedlings, live music, food samplings, faerie hair, artist meetups, tea and kombucha sampling and more planned for the two-day celebration.

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


News to share?Submit information online at AlbanyAwakenings.com

Submittal deadline is the 5th of the month.

Help Prevent Heart Attacks with EndoPAT Testing

Healthy Endeavors Medicine, PC, the functional medicine

practice of Anita K. Burock Stotts, M.D., has begun offering EndoPAT (peripheral arterial tone) testing, a non-invasive, office-based test to assess the health of the endothe-lium, the lining of the arteries.

The endothelium is the gateway to cardiovascular health. When it functions well, arteries are more able to relax and less likely to accumulate plaque. The test gives a baseline and can be measured again after changes in lifestyle, medi-cation or supplements are initiated to determine the effect Before opening Healthy Endeavors Medicine in 2010, Stotts had a long career as a conventional primary care inter-nist, urgent care physician and a hospitalist, all in the Capital District. Her own healing journey led her to functional medi-cine first as a patient and then as a practitioner, because, “It expands the toolbox available to a medical practitioner and enhances the power of conventional medicine to help patients improve health and optimize vitality,” says Stotts.

Location: 2592 Western Ave. Ste. 102, Altamont. For more infor-mation, call 518-355-2060 or visit HealthyEndeavorsMED.com. See ad, page 19.

Meet Erin Ethier, Maker of Earthly Remedies

Erin Ethier, owner of Earthly Remedies by

Erin, will be at the Sche-nectady Greenmarket at Proctor’s Theatre (open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

April 6 and 20, and May 4 and 18 for the public to view all her products and test them out. Earthly Remedies by Erin products are now available at Honest Weight food Co-op, in Albany, and at the Niska-yuna Co-op Market. Big sellers are the regular and sensitive deodorant, Baby’s Butt Cream with coconut oil, eczema creams, hand salves, herbal tinctures and new lip balms. Ethier often visits both locations for product demonstrations; see website for details.

For more information, call 518-534-3003, email or visit EarthlyRemediesByErin.com. See ad, page 20.

Anita K. Burock Stotts, M.D.


newsbriefs

Experience Darshan with Her Holiness Sai Maa

The Sai Maa Center of Albany is hosting the spiritual luminary Sai Maa and her teachers as part of the

2014 Passion Tour, a worldwide series of events that explores passion as the essential energy to fuel a life of purpose, alignment and fulfillment. The free program called Darshan, a Sanskrit word that means “in the sight of the Divine,” will be held on May 10, in Albany. There is an introduction to Sai Maa’s teachings from 6:30 to 7 p.m. and the Darshan begins at 7:30 p.m. More than a blessing, Darshan is a calling forth of divinity. Being “seen” by a living master is a powerful way to raise the vibration of our own being; awaken-ing us to peace and joy—qualities already within us,

just dormant. Sai Maa’s mission is this global enlightenment, encouraging practi-cal spirituality and personal transformation. “When we are awakened, we serve by putting more love on the planet and supporting others to awaken to the light within themselves,” says the master.

Admission is free. Location: Holiday Inn, 205 Wolf Rd., Albany. Registration strongly encouraged at Sai-Maa.com/thepassiontour. See ad, page 17.

Gong Lab Experience Available in Three Locations

Nick Pavoldi, the owner of Bodywork Professionals in

Latham and Saratoga Springs, is now offering regular Gong Labs. Upcoming events include 4 p.m., April 4, at Hot Yoga Saratoga; 6:15 p.m., April 5, at Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts; and 7 p.m., April 18, at Pilates Principle. A Gong Lab gong bath is an hour of relaxation and meditation in a sonic environment. Using large gongs, metal and crystal singing bowls and other instru-ments, it takes the individual through a sonic landscape that often leads to explorations of in-ner space, and is a great beginner meditation experience. The Gong Lab team is comprised of Diane Simpson and Gong Brothers Nick and Jim Pavoldi. Gong baths are an extraordi-nary experience, and first-timers say they find it unlike anything they’ve ever done before. Nick says, “A gong bath is both very relaxing and leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalized, almost like every cell in your body is vibrating and alive.”

Locations: Hot Yoga Saratoga, 75 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs; Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts, 10 2nd St., Troy; and Pilates Principle, 578 New Loudon Rd., Latham. For more information, call 518-389-2200 or visit GongLab.com and BodyworkProfessionals.com. See ad, page 33.

Sai Maa


healthbriefs TOMATOES PREVENT AND EVEN TREAT LIVER DISEASETomatoes are

widely known for their outstand-ing antioxidant content, anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties, plus benefits to heart health. Now, research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Hu-man Nutrition Re-search Center, at Tufts University, in Boston, Massachusetts, has found that consuming tomatoes—particularly their lycopene content—can also help prevent and even treat both liver disease and cancer of the liver. The researchers combed through 241 studies and scientific papers to connect the dots. They report that lyco-pene up regulates the sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) protein, meaning it increases the number of receptors on cell surfaces, thereby increasing cellular response to it. SIRT1 activation is recognized to protect against obesity-induced inflam-mation and degeneration of the liver, explain the study’s authors. Lycopene was found to protect against fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis and the formation of cancer in the liver and lungs. Multiple studies have shown cooked tomatoes and tomato sauce offer increased bioavailability of healthful lycopene.

Home Renovations Aggravate Childhood Asthma

New research suggests that renovation planning should involve more than just picking the right

colors and styles; doing it right may help prevent child-hood respiratory conditions. Researchers from St. Louis University, in Missouri, linked home renovations with increased wheezing, asthma and chronic coughing among children living in the home. The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, followed 31,049 children between the ages of 2 and 14 years old from seven Chinese cities over a two-year period.

Previous research has also reached a similar conclusion, identifying some specific materials responsible for increased childhood respiratory disorders. A Russian study of 5,951 children ages 8 to 12 found that increased asthma and wheezing were related to recently completed painting, as well as the installation of new linoleum flooring, synthetic carpets, particleboard and wall coverings. That study, published in the same journal states, “Exposure levels are the highest during and shortly after painting, but low levels of exposure may remain for several months. Wooden furniture, as well as painted or varnished and new furniture, is likely to emit chemical substances.” A 2002 study of New York children published in the Journal of Urban Health found similar results.


Orange Oil Calms Kids in Dental ChairsFor centuries, aromatherapy using

orange oil has been heralded in traditional herbalism for its ability to alleviate anxiety. Research published in the journal Advanced Biomedi-cal Research now finds that aroma-therapy using the same ingredient can significantly reduce a child’s anxiety at the dentist’s office. The study, conducted at Iran’s Isfahan University of Medical Sci-ences and published in the peer-re-viewed journal Advanced Biomedical Research, tested 10 boys and 20 girls between 6 and 9 years old. In this crossover design study, participants were assigned randomly into two groups. Half the children were treated with water instead of any essential oil (control) initially and received orange aroma in the second session (intervention). Another 15 children re-ceived treatment under orange aroma in the first encounter (intervention) and were treated without any aroma the second time (control). When the children were given orange oil aro-matherapy, they experienced signifi-cantly reduced heart rates and lower salivary cortisol levels compared with those not receiving it. The results corroborate findings from a 2000 study from the University of Vienna, in Austria, published in Physiology and Behavior.

Olive Leaf Outperforms Diabetes DrugOlive leaf may provide nature’s answer to diabetes treatment.

A recent study from the University of Auckland, in New Zealand, suggests that olive leaf extract can help reduce insu-lin resistance and increase insulin production by beta cells in the pancreas. The researchers tested 46 middle-aged, obese adults at risk for developing met-abolic syndrome-related Type 2 diabetes. In the double-blind, placebo-controlled study, olive leaf extract outperformed the diabetes drug metformin and “significantly improved insulin sensitivity and pancreatic beta-cell secretory capacity,” according to the researchers. Insulin helps escort glucose into the body’s cells.


ecotip

Heirloom HomeA Fresh Look at Furnishings that LastWhy not expand on the spring tradition of home cleaning by appraising existing home furnishings and décor to see how rearrangements can freshen the whole presentation? Employing a few basic cre-ative strategies will yield long-lasting beauty, cost savings, health benefits and utility, all adding up to enhanced sustainability. Secondhand items readily spruce up interiors when they are thoughtfully selected. Look for gently used, new-to-you items—ranging from furniture and lamps to accent pieces like pottery and wall art—at antique and thrift shops, yard and estate sales or via online forums such as CraigsList.com and Freecycle.org. Seeking out fair trade items helps support a fair wage for artisans around the world. Plants enliven and beautify any space while cleaning indoor air, according to a recent study by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and As-sociated Landscape Contractors of America. Plants cited as especially effective in removing formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide from the air include bam-boo palm, Chinese evergreen, English ivy, gerbera (African) daisy, chrysanthemum and peace lily. Pot them in used jars or other repurposed containers to conserve materials and add character and more personality to home décor. Overall balance is key. “An imbalanced room has large furniture grouped together at one end and lightweight furniture and bare walls at the other,” says pro-fessional designer Norma Lehmeier Hartie, author of Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify & Energize Your Life, Your Home & Your Planet. “The effect is like being on a tilting boat in a storm.” Furniture arrangements are best when they allow light to flow through spaces with ample allowance for moving about the room. The ideal setup facili-tates worktable projects and small-group conversations. Round tables help make everyone feel like they belong, according to green living expert Annie Bond. Sustainable kitchen wares are often the classiest. Sturdy pots, pans and kettles, like Le Creuset and Picquot Ware, may offer replacement parts and lifetime guarantees; Bialetti and Bodum coffee makers and Littala glassware are durable and long-lasting. While some may cost more upfront, their longevity saves money over time. Then there’s always grandma’s iron skillet.

Additional sources: GreenPages.org and GreenAmerica.org


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

Pick-Me-Up BooksMailbox Libraries Gain WorldwideAlice Mills smiles as she looks at the box that sits on her lawn in Hutchin-son, Kansas, an act of kindness for neighbors and the community. Inside the box is a miniature library. Books sit on two shelves; the bottom with short stories for children and the top with novels for adults. After her children grew up and moved away from home, they took the books they wanted with them. The rest sat on a bookshelf collecting dust. “If they’re here, they’re not being read,” Mills says. The concept for the Little Free Library began in 2009 to promote literacy and the love of reading, as well as to build a sense of community, according to LittleFreeLibrary.org. They are now popping up around the world in the United States, Bul-garia, Germany, Italy, Pakistan, Spain, Turkey and the Congo. A recent Pew Internet & American Life Project survey shows that Americans strongly value the role of public libraries in their communities, both for providing access to materials and resources and for promoting literacy and improving the overall quality of life. More than half used a public library in a one-year period, and 72 percent say they live in a “library household”. Most Americans say they have only had positive experiences at public libraries and value a range of library resources and services. National Library Week begins April 13.

Contributing source: HutchNews.com

Trees are TryingForests Have Limited Powers to Save UsForests have a finite capacity to soak up atmospheric carbon di-oxide, according to a recent study from Northern Arizona University. Results published in the online journal New Phytologist illustrate how today’s rising atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) might alter the carbon and nitrogen content of ecosystems.

In contrast to expectations, research over an 11-year period showed that ecosystem carbon uptake was not sig-nificantly increased by high CO2. While plants did contain more carbon in the presence of higher CO2 levels, the soil lost carbon content due to microbial decomposition. These factors essentially canceled each other out, signifying that nature cannot entirely self-correct against climate change.


Whether already an activist or still struggling to sort recyclables, we all have a

prime opportunity during the week of April 22 to renew our individual and collective pledge to tread more lightly on the planet. “Environmentalism touches every part of our lives, from what we eat to what we wear to what we breathe,” says Earth Day Network President Kathleen Rogers. “Learning about where our food comes from or how a product is made can be fun,” she con-tinues, “and awareness is the founda-tion for action.” More than a billion citizens have already registered their acts of green through the organization’s website; this year, the campaign seeks to engage a billion more. Suggestions range from the personal, such as pledging to stop using disposable plastic, to the political, in calling our congressional representa-tives to reestablish a tax credit program for renewable energy. With an estimated two out of every three people on Earth expected to be living in cities by 2050—strain-ing water, energy and transportation systems—Earth Day Network has cho-sen Green Cities as this year’s theme. Advocates are calling upon cities to invest in smart grids, overhaul outdat-ed building codes and increase public transportation options. U.S. success stories helping to lead the way include Chicago’s Solar Express program, using incentives to drive

Celebrate Earth Day 2014Reduce, Reuse and Recycle to Renew the Health of Our Planet

solar installations, and New York City’s pedestrian plazas, designed to replace urban gridlock with open space. Den-ver’s low-income South Lincoln neigh-borhood is also getting a makeover with its green public housing community that boasts a platinum-certified Leader-ship in Energy & Environmental Design building. Its energy efficiency and water reuse systems are reducing resource consumption by up to 40 percent. Plus, bicycle lanes in roads and expanded access to city bus and tram systems decrease traffic-related pollution.

Visit EarthDay.org to pledge a per-sonal act of green, find a volunteer opportunity or learn more about the re-greening of urban communi-ties around the world. Help the NY Capital District celebrate its progress toward sustainability at these local Earth Day 2014 events.

SATURDAY, APRIL 19Earth Day in the Pine Bush – 9am-12pm. A variety of conservation activities suitable for all ages will be taking place. All equipment will be provided. Please dress appropriately for the weather and out-side working conditions and bring drinking water. Lunch will be provided for all volunteers. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. Registration required: 518-456-0655.Spring Work Day – 9am-1:30pm. Bring your small gar-den tools (pruners, rakes, etc.), and containers for refuse. Dress for comfort. Work until 1 and then stop for snacks and fellowship. Donations accepted. Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. Info: 518-875-6935.

John Muir’s Gifts: Earth Day Guided Walk – 10am-12pm. Celebrate Earth Day and the 176th anniversary of the birth of John Muir, noted natural-ist and founder of the Sierra Club. Saunter through the woods and be inspired by Muir’s writings. Wash your spirit clean. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. Info: 518-475-0291.Science Zone: Rock Eater – 1-2:30pm. Discover how acid rain affects calcium carbonate in limestone rock at this fun hands-on activity. Free with admis-sion. Museum of Science and Innovation, 15 Nott Ter Hts, Schenectady. Info: 518-382-7890.

TUESDAY, APRIL 22Arbor Day Presentation – 6-8pm. Internationally-certified arborist Fred Breglia, with over 25 years in the “green industry,” will be speaking on the most current good practices in pruning and mulching. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Library, 475 Moe Road. Info: 518-371-8622.

SATURDAY, APRIL 26Go Green Day – 8am-2pm. A family friendly Reduce, Reuse & Recycle event for all ages. Farnsworth Middle School, 6072 State Farm Road, Guilderland. Info: 518-765-2692.

earthdayevents

Kids and adults can enjoy activities, demonstrations,

cleanups, and talks available at many Capital District

nature areas. The following are locations that have held

Earth Day related events over the last few years. Contact

them directly for 2014 details.

Saratoga National Historical Park, Stillwater

NPS.gov/sara

Hudson Crossing Park, Schuylerville

HudsonCrossingPark.org

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, Gansevoort WiltonPreserve.org

Up Yonda Farm Environmental Education Center, Bolton Landing

UpYondaFarm.com


inspiration

We may be drawn to the sounds of waves or woodland streams or beguiled by the

subtle winds and creature voices of the desert or mountains. Whatever captures our imagination, as we actively listen, something in a wild animal’s repertoire will cause us to catch our breath. Nature teems with a vigorous resonance that is as complete and expansive as it is delicately balanced. Every place on the planet populated by plants and wild animals is a concert hall, with a unique orchestra performing an unmatched symphony. Each resident species possesses its own preferred sonic bandwidth—to blend or contrast—akin to how stringed, woodwind, brass and percussion instruments stake out acous-tic territory in an orchestral masterpiece. Into Earth’s daily round are embed-ded the dawn and daytime, evening and nighttime choruses. Whatever the purpose of a creature’s aural signal—

mating, protecting territory, capturing food, group defense, play or social contact—it must be audible and free from human acoustical interference if the species is to successfully function. During the last half of the 20th cen-tury, I recorded the wild sounds of more than 15,000 species and 4,500 hours of natural ambience. Nearly 50 percent of these land, sea and sky habitats have since then become seriously compro-mised, if not biophonically silent. The loss of representative habitats due to human presence and noise has resulted in declines in the density and diversity of creatures large and small that contribute to healthy natural soundscapes. Fortunately, in the absence of human habitation, these places can become lively again. Fellow British soundscape ecologist Peter Cusack wrote of the restoration of wildlife 20 years after the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear catastrophe in the Ukraine: “Animals

Earth MusicSaving Nature’s Wild Symphony

by Bernie Krause

and birds absent for many decades—wolves, moose, white-tailed eagles, black storks—have moved back, and the Chernobyl [human] exclusion zone is now one of Europe’s prime wildlife sites. The species-rich dawn chorus is one of Chernobyl’s definitive sounds… its night-time concerts equally spectacular.” In 1968, 45 percent of the old-growth forests in the contiguous United States were still standing; by 2011 it was less than 2 percent. Before the forest echoes die, we may want to step back for a moment and listen carefully to the chorus of the natural world where rivers of sound flow, ranging from crickets, frogs and insects to wrens, condors, cheetahs, wolves—and us. Otherwise we are denying ourselves the fullest experience of that which is essential to our spiritual and psychological health. The whisper of every leaf and crea-ture’s song implores us to love and care for the delicate tapestry of the biophony that was the first music our species ever heard. It told us that we are part of a single, fragile biological system; voices in an orchestra of many, with no more important cause than the celebration of life itself.

Adapted excerpt from The Great Animal Orchestra, by Bernie Krause, used with permission of Little, Brown and Company. Listen in at WildSanctuary.com and learn more at NatureSounds.org and WorldListeningProject.org.


communityspotlight

Dr. Amy Cole is a kind and passionate natu-ropathic doctor with

offices in East Greenbush, New York, and Bennington, Vermont. After undergoing a series of health issues as an adolescent, with doctors telling her that she would need several medica-tions and probably not be able to conceive children, she went to a local food co-op looking for alternative solutions and found an ad for an herbalist. The Chinese herbs and advice from the herbalist not only helped her get healthy, but just over a year ago, she became a mom. The herbalist also guided her toward the field of naturopathy. “I explained to her that I was [a] pre-med [student] and my ideas about how medicine should be, and she said, ‘What you are describing is a naturopathic doctor,’” explains Cole. “Of course, upon returning home, I looked up naturopathic doctors and I was stunned to see the six main philosophies of naturopathic medicine being exactly what I had been wanting to do all along. I immediately changed my focus and applied to naturopathic medical school.” Cole earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with two concentrations in chemistry and biology at Hartwick College, in Oneonta, New York, and a degree in naturopathic medicine at the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine, in Connecticut, one of only five accredited naturopathic schools in the U.S. Naturopathic physicians work with patients in both preventative and maintenance healthcare. Nutrition counsel-ing, herbal medicines, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, physical medicine, exercise therapy and lifestyle counseling are some of the many areas they cover. Cole’s special interests are aller-gies, blood sugar balance/diabetes, chronic disease, digestive issues, hormonal conditions, high cholesterol, high blood

pressure, mood disorders, chronic skin disease support, women’s and men’s health, pre-conception counseling, prenatal and postnatal support, weight loss and nutritional counseling, Lyme disease, thyroid and other endocrine disorders, chronic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic yeast infections, MTHRF Gene issues and infertility. Education about naturo-pathic healthcare is part of Cole’s plan, “I want to get the word out there about naturopathic medi-cine so more people know about

it and can choose to go to a naturopathic doctor if that resonates with them,” she states. Cole tells her patients on the first visit that she doesn’t want them to have to rely on any medication or natural supplement for the rest of their lives. Instead, she notes, “My goal is to get my patients back into balance so their bodies are able to function properly and they don’t have the issues they have been dealing with anymore.” Cole maintains a blog on her website where she offers ar-ticles on keeping a balanced and healthy lifestyle that include tips on herbal remedies. She recently shared an article on how lavender helps a baby sleep and wrote another titled, “How to Make a Home Homeopathic Kit for Your Family.” The doctor offers many classes on healthy eating, shopping at the super-market and strategies for eating out in the real world.

Back to Nature Family Wellness is located at two locations, 77 Troy Rd. (US 4), Ste. E, East Greenbush, NY; and 160 Ben-mont Ave., Ste. 30, Bennington, VT. For more information, call 518-701-4587 or visit AmyColeND.com.

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

Dr. Amy Cole Promotes Naturopathic Wellness

by Kim Steele

A naturopathic physician can provide answers and positive change in a patient’s life while avoiding many medications. Their approach is different than a general doctor because they work with the physical, the mind and the spirit within. Instead of ceding control to the phar-maceutical industry, a simple lifestyle change may be all that is needed to get healthy.


Good Riddance to Bad Vibes

We crackle with energy. Natural electromagnetic fields within us regulate how our bodies

work. Plus, we continually encounter many outside energy fields from Wi-Fi, cell phones and towers, power lines, mi-crowave ovens, computers, TVs, security devices and radar. A growing number of experts see these surrounding frequencies as an increasing danger to our well-being. Applying modalities like acupunc-ture, Reiki, Touch for Health and Eden Energy Medicine can help us maintain a healthy energy balance internally. They work to harmonize the body to protect against stress, trauma and associated illness. Phyllis Traver, owner of Safe & Sound Home, in Boston, is certified by the International Institute of Building-Biology & Ecology to detect, measure and counter in-home electromagnetic activity. “The institute usually finds that when a patient doesn’t respond to treatment by an energy healer, it’s because of the environment. I try to neutralize its effect to help the body regulate properly,” Traver says. While protection in highly occu-pied family areas is important, providing protection in bedrooms is especially vi-tal, due to the amount of time we spend there for rest and restoration. Traver’s diagnoses sometimes suggest remedia-tion measures that involve an electrician

healingways

grounding currents and adding selective shielding materials to block frequencies flowing from electronic devices. “Mag-netic fields from outside the house are hard to control, but 98 percent of what I find can be fixed,” she advises. When Terry Mollner, 69, was having trouble sleeping, he contacted Traver, who receives client referrals from energy healers. “The conclusions were stunning,” Mollner says. “The detector’s measurements went off the charts in the bedroom. It wasn’t the flat screen TV at the foot of my bed, but how the room’s wiring was done. The electri-cian installed a relay so I can switch off the power on that side of the house at night. Now, I sleep six or seven hours,” which he characterizes as “a profound change.” He also suggests turning off and moving cell phones away from beds. Mollner then hardwired the com-puters in his home, eliminated Wi-Fi and rearranged the electronic equip-ment in his home office. Kim Cook, an energy practitioner in Mission Viejo, California, specializes in Eden Energy Medicine and Emo-tional Freedom Techniques (EFT). Cook decided not to buy a house she was initially interested in because it was in a hot spot. When Cook used her meter to chart frequencies at home, it also prompted her to move her bedroom

Escaping Electromagnetic Exposureby Priscilla Goudreau-Santos


“Just because someone isn’t feeling symptoms

from exposure to electronic technology, that doesn’t mean

that it’s not having an effect on DNA.”

~ Camilla Rees

clock radio to a different bureau. “It’s no longer sitting right at our heads,” she notes. Plus, “I don’t put my cell phone on my body and it bothers me that my son puts his in his pocket.” An overarching observation from Cook’s professional practice is that in-creasing numbers of people in pain are interested in energy medicine because they’re so frustrated with Western medi-cine. She observes, “Pain is blocked energy, and people are learning how to unblock it naturally.” The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the International EMF Project in 1996 because of rising public health concerns due to the surge in EMF sources. After reviewing extensive research and thousands of articles, the organization can’t confirm—or deny—the existence of health consequences from exposure to low-level EMFs. But in 2011, the WHO Interna-tional Agency for Research on Cancer classified the electromagnetic ra-diation from cell phones as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on increased risk for glioma, a malignant brain cancer. Lloyd Morgan, a senior researcher with the nonprofit Environ-mental Health Trust and lead author

of the internationally endorsed report, Cellphones and Brain Tumors, goes further, unequivocally stating, “Cell phone radiation is a carcinogen.” In our own environment, we can regulate EMF, says Iowan Camilla Rees, founder of the educational petition website ElectromagneticHealth.org and Campaign for Radiation Free Schools on Facebook; she is the co-author of Public Health SOS: The Shadow Side of the Wireless Revolution and Morgan’s cell phone report. Says Rees, “You can buy a meter, avoid using cordless phones and baby monitors, and change your cell phone behavior. The harmful effects of cell phones decrease with distance; just by holding the cell phone six inches from your head, there is a 10,000-fold reduc-tion of risk.”

Priscilla Goudreau-Santos is a free-lance writer and owner of Priscilla Goudreau Public Relations & Market-ing, in Charlotte, NC.

Find more helpful information at Tinyurl.com/CellPhoneRadiationDanger, Tinyurl.com/CellPhoneUsageTips and Tinyurl.com/EMF-ProtectionTips.


Every pivotal life decision, from choos-ing where we live to eating healthier, can support our best interests en-

vironmentally, as well. The good news is that it is possible to afford a sustain-able way of life. Eco-friendly choices for housing, vehicles and food—generally perceived as expensive for the average individual or family—often are not only attainable when pursued in a thought-ful way, but can actually save us money compared to maintaining the status quo.

1. Buying a HomeWhen considering a move to a new place, we often find out how much house we can manage and then pro-ceed to invest to the hilt. But if hitting our spending limit will leave a deficit in the amount of green and healthy home features and furnishings we can achieve, we could end up with a resi-dence that makes neither financial nor ecological sense, and isn’t good for our

health. A solution is to scale back on costly square footage. Spending 25 to 40 percent less than we think we can on a smaller home provides more possibilities when planning the renovation budget, enabling us to create a home that is more deeply satisfying. Nicole Alvarez, an architectural designer with Ellen Cassilly Architect, in Durham, North Carolina, who blogs at IntentionallySmall.com, says that if we value quality over quantity, place over space and living more intentionally in every aspect of our lives, we are ready for a small home. Occupying less space has profoundly influenced her daily life and happiness. Alvarez has found, “When space is limited, everything has a function and a purpose. Everything has to be intentional. Over time, as you grow in the home, you make small modifications to personal-ize it more to adjust to your routine. You grow a strong bond with your home.”

Securing a much smaller dwelling than what we originally had designs on can lead to a lifetime of savings. With less space to furnish, heat, cool, light, clean and maintain, we can enjoy greater financial freedom, less stress and more time for fun.

2. Deciding Where to LiveUrban, suburban or rural, where we live incurs long-term repercussions on the natural environment. Choosing an established community within or close to an urban center tends to be more protective of air, water and land quality than living in a distant, car-dependent suburb, yet many families feel either drawn to or resigned to the suburbs for the lower housing prices. But as Ilana Preuss, vice presi-dent at Washington, D.C.-based Smart Growth America, explains, “There is more to housing affordability than how much rent or mortgage we pay. Trans-portation costs are the second-biggest budget item for most families. In loca-tions with access to few transportation choices, the combined cost of housing and transportation can be more than 60 percent of the total household budget. For families with access to a range of transportation choices, the combined cost can be less than 40 percent.” In most suburbs, where the only practical transportation choice is a personal vehicle, dependency on a car takes a toll on us financially and physi-cally. Driving a personal vehicle 15,000 miles a year can cost about $9,122 annually in ownership and operating expenses, according to AAA’s 2013 Your Driving Costs report, and hours spent daily sitting behind the wheel being sedentary is eroding our health. Lack of transportation options is a lead-ing detriment to the nation’s collective wellness, according to the federal agency Healthy People. Sustainable cities provide many transportation options, including public buses and trains, car-sharing services and all forms of ride sharing; and perhaps most importantly, they are bike- and pedestrian-friendly. Choos-ing communities that make it possible to reduce driving and even go car-free much of the time can save us money, reduce stress and improve our health.

LIVE GREEN, SAVE BIG

Five Eco-Friendly Life Decisions that Can Actually Save Us Money

by Crissy Trask


3. Choosing a CarWe know two primary facts about cars: They are expensive and those with inter-nal combustion engines pollute during operation. Still, many of us need one. Reducing the total impact and burden of owning a car can be as simple as prioritizing fuel efficiency. It helps that fuel-sippers now come in more sizes than just small, yet small subcompacts remain a good place to start our research because of their budget-friendly prices and high fuel economy. A subcompact that averages 32 miles per gallon (mpg) and has a sticker price below $15,000 can save us so much money compared with a top-selling com-pact SUV—upwards of $16,000 over five years, according to Edmunds.com—that if we need a larger vehicle on occasion, we can more easily afford to rent one. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), both small and midsized, can be an even better choice, averaging 41 mpg. Cost comparisons show that an HEV can save a heavily travelling city driver nearly $1,000 in fuel costs annually versus a comparably sized conventional gasoline-powered car. Although a 2014 midsized HEV has an average suggested retail price of $28,431, the category has been around long enough to create a market

Eco-friendly choices for housing, vehicles and

food—generally perceived as expensive for the average individual or

family—often are not only attainable when pursued in a thoughtful way, but

can actually save us money compared to maintaining

the status quo.

in previously owned vehicles. A used hybrid that is just two years old can cost up to 25 percent less than a new one.

4. Buying American According to Consumer Reports, many shoppers prefer to buy products made in the USA, but with more than 60 percent of all consumer goods now produced overseas, finding American goods is not always easy. The good news is that buying American doesn’t mean only buying American made. We back the U.S. economy and jobs when we purchase used items that have been renewed or repurposed by enterprising citizens. Creative reuse supports new and exist-ing businesses that collect, clean, sort, recondition, refurbish, remanufacture, update, refinish, reupholster, repair, tailor, distribute and sell used parts, materials and finished goods. Sarah Baird, director of outreach and communications of the Center for a New American Dream, an organi-zation working to shift consumption away from wasteful trends, loves the history of used items. She says, “An item that has already lived one life has a story to tell, and is infinitely more interesting than anything newly manu-factured.” Another reward is the big savings afforded by previously owned durable goods; not even America’s big-box discount retailers can beat these genuine bargains. Of course, not everything is avail-able in the used marketplace, but when it makes sense, we can proudly know that our purchases support American ingenuity and workers.

5. Getting Healthy Going green is healthy in innumerable ways. In addition to driving less, ban-ning toxic products from our house-hold cupboards and dinner plates is another solid place to start on the road to improved well-being for ourselves and the planet. Toxic consumer products pollute the planet, from manufacture through use and disposal. They aren’t doing us any favors. The U.S. Environmental Pro-tection Agency reports that the average human body now contains an estimated 700 industrial compounds, pollutants

and other chemicals due to exposure to toxic consumer products and industrial chemicals. After researching proper local disposal of such hazards, replace them on future shopping forays with safer choices. It’s an investment in our health that can save untold pain and money and pay off big time in avoiding health problems ranging from cancer, asthma and chronic diseases to im-paired fertility, birth defects and learn-ing disabilities according to the Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families Coalition. To reduce exposure to the toxins that are commonly sprayed on conventional crops, select sustainable and organic ver-sions of foods to prepare at home when-ever possible. Such choices help keep both our bodies and the environment healthy and can be surprisingly affordable compared with eating out and consuming prepackaged convenience foods. By substituting whole foods for prepared foods, cooking more meals at home and practicing good eat-ing habits—like eating less meat and downsizing portions—the average person can enjoy high-quality food for $7 to $11 per day. This matches or falls below what the average American daily spends on food, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Consider-ing that diet-related diseases can cost afflicted families thousands of dollars a year, better food choices can make us not only healthier, but wealthier, too. Crissy Trask is the author of Go Green, Spend Less, Live Better. Connect at CrissyTrask.com.

The newest hybrids have been around for more than a decade, and the batteries have held up extremely well, lasting 150,000 to 200,000 miles in some cases.

~ CNN.com


Peace VillageLearning and Retreat Center

by Wesley Delanoy

they are able to retreat at any time within their own self, feeling calm and empowered, even in the midst of the many challenges of today’s world. Upcoming events include Inner Peace, Inner Power: April 4 to 6; Free-dom from Attachments: April 25 to 27; Managing Anger: April 25 to 27; Hope In Healthcare (a weekend retreat and con-versation for healthcare professionals): May 2 to 4; Journey into the 11th Step Through Meditation (for those in a 12-step program): May 2 to 4; The Dreamgiv-er: June 13 to 15; and The Healing Power of Meditation: June 13 to 15. Peace Village’s main reason for being is to spread a message which can improve the quality of life, bringing more peace love and joy into our world. Peace Village is run by volunteers and operates entirely on voluntary contribu-tions. To find out more about cost and the suggested contribution amount for a weekend, call Peace Village. Nationally, the BKWSO has been teaching Raja Yoga meditation since 1978 and now has 26 centers throughout the United States. Established in 1937, the or-ganization maintains a network of 8,500 centers in more than 130 countries.

Peace Village Learning & Retreat Center is located at 54 O’Hara Rd. at Rte 23A, in Haines Falls, NY. For more information, call 518-589-5000 or visit PeaceVillageRetreat.org. See ad, page 32.

Peace Village is a retreat center of the Brahma

Kumaris World Spiritual Organiza-tion (BKWSO). The Haines Falls, New York, campus, one of 15 retreat centers operated interna-tionally, is housed in five buildings on 300 acres of woods and streams in the Catskill Mountains, about two-and-a-half hours North of New York City and one hour south of Albany. Nonprofit Peace Village opened its doors in 1999 and since then, thou-sands of people from around the world have visited as part of their own jour-ney. The work of the Brahma Kumaris is inspired by the vision of a world where every individual can develop to their full potential and live in harmony with others and the natural world. Peace Village offers weekend spring, summer and fall retreats in meditation and self-development to learn inner peace, vegetarian cook-ing, conquering anger, self-esteem, and more. There are retreats for profession-als, family retreats, women’s retreats, silence retreats and outdoor retreats, as well as group meditations, courses and workshops for those that live close by. Peace Village gives spiritual explorers the opportunity to immerse

themselves in spiritual teach-ings and a tranquil atmosphere for an extended period of time. Most retreats at Peace Village take place from Friday to Sunday. Residing at the Village for the weekend allows

the participant to experience deeper aspects of the self, often leading to re-alizations and personal transformation. A faculty of 25 seasoned facilitators leads the retreats. Peace Village was created with the purest heartfelt intentions to share peace and spiritual understanding. They know that through sharing pure feelings from the heart, others have been touched, lives have been changed and they in turn have brought friends and family to Peace Vil-lage. Peace Village is very different from any other retreat center. It is only when people come and experience for them-selves that they understand and can then share the experience with their friends. The space is available to anyone to come and experience their spirituality, no matter what culture, religion, age or profession. Peace Village is like an oasis in a world which is lacking the spiritual resources of peace and power. Once individuals visit, gain spiritual experi-ences and learn how to bring it home,

nonprofitspotlight


greenliving

Americans use 35 million pounds of toxic household cleaning products annually. According

to the Children’s Health Environmen-tal Coalition, in Los Angeles, traces of cleaning chemicals can be found throughout the human body within seconds of exposure, posing risks like asthma, allergies, cancer, reproductive toxicity, hormone disruption, neurotox-icity and death. Equally sobering is the decades of research suggesting a relationship be-tween the overuse of powerful disinfec-tants and the rise of antibiotic-resistant super bacteria like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), as well as concerns over these toxins entering water supplies and wildlife food chains. Cleaning product labels lack transparency, says Johanna Congleton, Ph.D., a senior scientist for the Envi-ronmental Working Group, because “manufacturers aren’t required to specify ingredients.” One approach to assure safe ingre-dients is do-it-yourself (DIY) products. For Matt and Betsy Jabs, the authors of DIY Natural Household Cleaners who blog at DIYNatural.com, creat-ing homemade cleaners is a rewarding exercise in sustainability and simplicity. “We’re cutting through all the market-ing and getting back to basics,” says

Matt. Affordability is another benefit: The Jabs’ homemade laundry detergent costs five cents per load, compared with 21 cents for a store brand. Annie B. Bond, a bestselling author and pioneering editor of the award-winning Green Guide, dispels a DIY myth: “What’s time-consuming isn’t making the cleaners; it’s making the decision to switch and figuring it all out,” she says.

Nine Basics Find these multitasking ingredients in local groceries and health stores or online.

White vinegar effectively cleans, deodorizes, cuts grease and disinfects against bacteria, viruses and mold.

Castile soap in liquid or bar form serves as a biodegradable, vegetable-based surfactant and all-around cleaner (avoid mixing with vinegar, which neu-tralizes its cleansing properties).

Baking soda cleans, whitens, neutral-izes odors and softens water. It’s an ex-cellent scrubbing agent for bathrooms, refrigerators and ovens.

Borax, a natural mineral, improves the effectiveness of laundry soap. Although classified (as is salt) as a low-level health hazard that should be kept away from

ECO-CLEANERSDIY Recipes Keep Your Home Naturally Clean

by Lane Vail

HOMEMADE


children and animals, borax is non-carci-nogenic and isn’t absorbed through skin.

Washing soda, a caustic chemical cousin of baking soda, softens water and removes stains. Bond advises, “It’s a heavy duty cleaner as powerful as any toxic solvent,” so wear gloves.

Hydrogen peroxide is considered an effective disinfectant and bleach alter-native by the Environmental Protection Agency. Use it to whiten grout and remove stains.

Essential oils derived from plants in-fuse cleaners with fragrance and boost germ-fighting power. Tea tree, eucalyp-tus and lavender oils all boast antibac-terial, antiviral and antifungal proper-ties. The Jabs advise that although they can be pricy, “The investment will pay for itself many times over.”

Lemon juice or citric acid cuts through grease, removes mold and bac-teria and leaves dishes streak-free.

Coarse kosher salt helps soften dishwasher water and acts as a scour-ing agent.

Home FormulasAll-purpose cleaner: Homemade Cleaners: Quick-and-Easy Toxin-Free Recipes, by Mandy O’Brien and Dionna Ford, suggests combin-ing one cup of vinegar, one cup of

water and 15 drops of lemon oil in a spray bottle. Use it anywhere, includ-ing glass and mirrors. For serious disinfecting, follow with a hydrogen peroxide spray.

Foaming hand/dish soap: Shake one cup of water, a quarter-cup of castile soap and 15 drops of essential oil in a foaming dispenser. Use in bathrooms and kitchens.

Dishwashing detergent: DIYNatural recommends mixing one cup of borax, one cup of washing soda, a half-cup of citric acid and a half-cup of coarse kosher salt. Leave it uncovered for several days, stirring often to prevent clumping. Cover and refrigerate. Use one tablespoon per load with a half-cup of citric acid in the rinse to combat streaks.

Laundry detergent: Combine one cup of borax, one cup of washing soda and one 14-ounce bar of grated castile soap. Use one tablespoon per load, adding a half-cup of lemon juice to the rinse cycle. Prior to washing, use hydrogen peroxide as a stain remover (test first; it may lift color).

Bathroom soft scrub: Bond recommends creating a thick paste with liquid castile soap and a half-cup of baking soda. Scour tubs, showers and stainless steel surfaces with a sponge, and then rinse.

Toilet bowl cleaner: Sprinkle one cup of borax into the toilet at bedtime and then clean the loosened grime with a brush the next morning, advises Bond. Wipe outer surfaces with the all-purpose spray.

Wood polish: Bond recommends mix-ing a quarter-cup of vinegar or lemon juice with a few drops of olive and lemon oil.

Hard floor cleaner: Environmental Working Group’s DIY Cleaning Guide suggests combining a half-gallon of hot water with one cup of white vinegar in a bucket to mop.

Carpet cleaner: Freshen rugs by sprin-kling baking soda at night and vacuum-ing in the morning, suggests Bond. For deeper cleaning, combine one cup of vinegar and two-and-a-half gallons of water in a steam cleaner.

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

More than 95 percent

of “green” products

manipulate labels by

providing irrelevant

information (declaring

a product is free of an

already illegal chemical),

being vague (masking

poisons as natural

ingredients), outright

lying (claiming false

endorsements) and

other maneuvers.

~ TerraChoice Group

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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


Phil Holloway

businessspotlighttruly love what we do.” Building from a pilot program last summer with the town of Bethlehem, Empire Zero will be growing their residential program through the region. Starting with what they are calling the Electric City pilot in April, covering the Schenectady and Niskayuna area, a pi-lot for the Town of Colonie, in May, and a program for Saratoga Springs, begin-ning in June, Empire Zero’s residential program consists of weekly or biweekly food waste pickup, including all meat products, dairy products, soiled paper and greasy paper. There is also a monthly compost exchange in which once a month, the empty bucket is taken away and a new full bucket of compost is delivered to the doorstep. Check Empire Zero's website for more details or to partici-pate in a pilot program. Empire Zero will be helping the Go Green Day 2014 event in Guilder-land this year compost all of their food waste and have a table at the Delmar Farmers’ Market all summer. Follow Empire Zero on Facebook for updates.

Empire Zero is located at 164 Mont-gomery St., in Albany. For more information, call 518-788-7423 or visit EmpireZeroWaste.com.

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

Composting Becomes Mainstream

with a Little Helpby Martin Miron

Tyler Quinn Holloway

Empire Zero is on a mission to redefine waste by of-fering commercial and

residential food waste recycling, including a customized compost-ing plan for businesses and flexible and afford-able food waste pickup for individual residences. All of the food waste they collect is brought to local composting facilities, turning previously unwanted discards into a beneficial local soil amendment.

Having grown up composting, Presi-dent and co-founder Tyler Quinn Holloway sought composting op-tions for his University while attending SUNY Geneseo. When he found no one offered this service, he saw a business opportunity. Leveraging his father Phil’s national ex-pertise in food waste diversion, the pair launched Empire Zero in 2012. Both men saw the need for a food waste recycling

service in the Capital Region and since then, the company has expanded to

serve the Hudson Valley and Berkshire County, as well

as servicing schools, municipalities, hospitals, homes and more. It was just Phil and Tyler in the office until

they hired Kelsie Harris as their public relations

manager in 2013 and Kyle Lanzit as residential program

manager to develop the residential program in 2014. Empire Zero current-ly partners with University at Albany and the Empire State Plaza to compost material coming out of their cafeterias and dining halls. Empire Zero places customer sat-isfaction first with training and signage programs for each customer to assist in the change into a composting program. Along the same lines, Empire Zero is a resource for anyone interested in learn-ing about the benefits of composting. As with all sustainability efforts a big challenge is awareness. Harris states, “Many people don’t know what composting is, how it works, or that there is a business out there that wants to help you do it in an easy and afford-able way.” Tyler adds, “We have the flex-ibility to work with and respond to our client's needs and to share with them our passion for compost. We

“Many people don’t know what composting is, how it

works, or that there is a business out there that wants

to help you do it in an easy and affordable way.”


healthykids

Creating a backyard wildlife habitat pro-vides valuable teach-

ing moments. With plan-ning and care, birds, bats, butterflies and bunnies can view yards as safe havens and sources for food, water and shelter, providing end-less fascination. Josh Stasik, a father of three and owner of Sweet-Seed.com, in Syracuse, New York, sees firsthand how feeding winged won-ders can be an inexpensive way to start a new family activity. “My mom taught me about flowers and bird feeders. I hope my kids will someday pass the informa-tion along to their chil-dren,” he says. Habitat plantings and available foods determine what creatures will visit.

Backyard Birds and ButterfliesNative Habitats Draw Critters

and Delight Kidsby Avery Mack

“Native plants attract native bugs that are eaten by native birds and bats,” observes Stasik, noting that staff at extension services and garden centers can provide helpful advice. Based on his own re-search, Stasik knows, “Bird species have definite tastes in food. Bluebirds love mealworms. Hummingbirds like floral nectars. Orioles look for citrus fruit. Butter-flies are eclectic sippers of both floral and citrus.” Hummingbirds pose particular appeal for kids and adults because they appear always on the move. Hummingbirds.net/map.html follows their migration sites. Videographer Tom Hoebbel, owner of TH Photography, outside Ithaca,

New York, builds birdhouses and nesting boxes with his kids. They also participate in the annual Christmas bird count for the Audubon Society (Birds.Audubon.org/Christmas-bird-count). The Great Back-yard Bird Count, a joint project between nonprofits Audubon and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, follows in February (gbbc.BirdCount.org). “In our yard, we have five nest-ing boxes made from reused wood. Once or twice a week, we check to see who lives there and how many eggs there are,” says Hoebbel. “So far, we’ve seen bluebirds, chickadees and house wrens.” He laments the rapid decline of bats in the Northeast due to pesticides kill-ing bugs, the main course for birds and bats. “In the winter, bats live in caves, so we put one-by-one-foot boxes in the yard for their summer homes.” Warm evenings on the patio are more enjoy-able when bats clean up the mosquito population; a single bat can eat as many as 1,000 in an hour. The monarch butterfly population is another favorite species in decline, with the spectacular annual migration on the verge of disappearing due to illegal deforestation, climate change, expansion of crop acreage and imposi-tion of genetically modified plants that reduce the growth of native species. “You can help them by planting peren-nial milkweed in your garden,” advises Brande Plotnick, founder of Tomato Envy, in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. Milkweed is the food of choice because it makes the caterpillars and butterflies toxic to birds and other predators. Also consider planting garden phlox, cone-flower and lantana. Migrating monarchs

live about nine months and fly up to 30 miles per hour. Plot-nick also suggests planting an herb garden

Hummingbird Nectar RecipeMeasure one part ordinary white sugar to four parts water (no unhealthy red dye needed). Boil the water first, and then mix the nectar while the water is hot; the sugar will easily dissolve.

Source: TomatoEnvy.com

bird photos courtesy of Susan Gottlieb, of Venice, California


that includes parsley. “Swallowtail butterflies will lay eggs on parsley, caterpillars hatch and feed on it, and eventually create a chrysalis,” she says. “You’ll be able to see the entire but-terfly life cycle.” Rabbits add another dimension to backyard wildlife. Just as birds and butterflies need trees, bushes and plants to land on and hide in, bunnies need ground cover. The Virginia Department of Game and Fisheries counsels that brush piles should start with a base of large limbs, logs or stones to raise the floor above ground and create tunnels and escape routes, plus a home base. Top with smaller branches and maybe a recycled Christmas tree or dead plants. Encourage structural density and per-manence with live vines. The resulting brush pile should be igloo-shaped and about six to eight feet tall and wide. Visit Tinyurl.com/BunnyShelters. City ordinances or subdivision regulations might prohibit brush piles in ordinary yards. Find out how to gain certification as a wildlife habitat through the National Wildlife Federation at Tinyurl.com/CertifiedWildlifeHabitat. Rabbits can have as many as seven babies per litter, depending on the spe-cies. Make sure their space is sufficient. Before attracting bunnies to the yard, be aware of local predators—hawks, owls, coyote, dogs and stray cats. The brush pile may also attract other animals like skunks, raccoons and reptiles. A wildlife habitat is a fun, ongoing

Habitat TipsRecognize the basic needs of all wildlife; food, water, cover and safe places to raise young.

� Determine the most desirable species to attract and learn their specific needs.

� Evaluate current yard habitat conditions for missing elements.

� Develop a plant list; select for wildlife value, emphasizing native plants suitable for the region.

� Realize that habitat will grow larger and mature.

� Certify the family’s backyard wildlife habitat through the National Wildlife Federation.

Source: Education Department at Cal-laway Gardens, Pine Mountain, GA

learning experience. It calls on math skills for bird counts, geography to follow mi-gration maps and woodworking to build homesites and feeding spots. It becomes a lesson in local ecology and the roles of native plants and animals. When children comprehend they can help save wildlife, it’s also a lesson in hope.

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


fitbody

Jungle GymMoving Like Animals Can

Wildly Improve Fitnessby Debra Melani

Fitness seekers across the country are finding their wild sides by crouching like cougars, leaping

like leopards and crawling like crabs. Although it might seem like they’ve let silliness encroach on their fitness goals, these adventurous types might be on the right track, realizing more of the rippled muscles and exceptional agility of our four-legged complements. “It’s getting people back into their own bodies,” says Mike Fitch, creator of Animal Flow, one of sev-eral fitness programs offered in health clubs around the country that enable participants to make the most of their inner beast. “People are tired of being injured and doing the same old work-outs. They need a more well-rounded, holistic approach to their health.” Fitch, founder of Global Bodyweight Training, in Miami, Florida, incorpo-rates fluid movement (including park-our, break dancing and gymnastics) in his routines. Animal-related workouts are proving to be a fun form of natural bodyweight training—named a top fitness trend for 2013 by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Men and women are mimicking

animals to attain stronger, leaner and more agile bodies that perform better in life. Whether building arm strength by swinging their lower bodies side-ways, feet-to-hands, like a gorilla, or toning thigh muscles by stalking forward inches from the ground like a panther, animal workout converts are toning their bodies in challenging ways without the use of heavy weights or equipment. “The bear crawl is another good example,” advises David Nordmark, author of Animal Workouts: Animal Movement Based Bodyweight Training for Everyone. With hands and feet on the ground and rear end raised in the air, the bear crawl involves scrambling quickly forward and backward—a popular high school football and karate agility drill for years. He contends, “Even if you think you are in shape and do it for a minute, you’ll be amazed at how much more of a workout your arms get.” Neal Pire, a New Jersey-based strength trainer and ACSM fellow, agrees the movements are intense and strength building, but wonders if an evolved, two-legged animal is meant to mimic four-legged species. “It’s a


very tough workout,” says Pire. “You’re loading muscles where typically you don’t have very much leverage, so your muscles are doing all of the work; yet some moves might be overloading to certain people’s joints.” Fitch claims the overall result is increased muscle endurance. He cites a study published in the journal Applied Physiology Nutrition and Metabolism of women that found whole-body, aerobic resistance training like what’s applied in his program supplies a cardiovascular workout similar to endurance training, but with the added benefits of in-creased balanced muscle strength and perceived enjoyment. “I call it body balance, working your body as a unit,” Nordmark says, citing pushups, which activate specific muscle groups, as a more traditional ex-ample. He notes, “I think it gives people a more natural and attractive look than bodybuilding, more like dancers or even martial artists or gymnasts.” Working out like animals keeps human cores activated, especially when combining the exercises together for a sustained routine. In addition to tightened abdominal muscles, it boosts calorie consumption and leads to en-hanced core and overall strength. Fitch points to a relevant study of college football players that demonstrated the strength connection, published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. Pire concurs that sustained exercises at a moderate range, as with animal workouts, is an effective calorie burner. Firming up a flabby middle also works to improve balance, as another study in the same journal showed, involving sedentary women performing fitness ball exercises. Moving the body in many direc-tions in intense, but flowing, almost dance-like workouts, naturally im-

proves stability, agility, flexibility and balance, as exhibited in the animal kingdom. “Challenging the body as it moves in all directions uses the body the way it was intended to be used,” maintains Fitch. Nordmark also points to similarities in yoga poses resembling animal postures that have contributed to physical and spiritual health for millennia. Nordmark and Fitch believe that animal themes provide many more bodyweight movements that can keep workouts fresh and be mastered for life, keeping bodies strong and func-

“Even if you think you are in shape and do it for a

minute, you’ll be amazed at how much more of a

workout your arms get.”~ David Nordmark on

“the bear crawl” exercise

tional as people age. “If you meet an old bear in the woods, he’s not walk-ing around with a walker,” Nordmark observes. “He’s still a formidable ani-mal, and you don’t want to mess with him.” Plus, adds Fitch: “The workouts are great fun.”

Watch animal moves in action at Tinyurl.com/AnimalFlowVideo.

Freelance journalist Debra Melani writes about health care and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at DebraMelani.com or [email protected].

“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


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).

Shamanic Healing Circle – 4-8pm. Bring one into the heart behind the heart. Release pains, traumas pressure and stress. Experience rejuvenation and bliss. Starting at $50. IKIERA, 34 Cemetery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.Gong Lab – 6:15pm. An hour of relaxation and meditation in a sonic environment. Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts, 10 2nd St, Troy. Info: 518-389-2200.Kirtan: with Chandrika – 7-9pm. Ecstatic chant-ing from the Indian Bhakti (devotional) tradition. Everyone sings together from their hearts, regard-less of ability. Sing, dance or lie down and relax. No experience or special skill necessary. Kids welcome with supervision. $15 donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.

SUNDAY, APRIL 6Metaphysical Book Discussion Group – 6pm. Discussing Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Joe Dispenza. Hosted by New Thought New York. By donation. Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence St, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-423-3569.

MONDAY, APRIL 7Introduction to Energy for Health & Healing: Practical Tips for Taking Charge of Your Health – 6:30-9pm. Learn about energy system and a powerful acupressure tapping technique to help one feel better. See how energy sensitivity can be used to assess health and check the compatibility of foods. $11. Saratoga Springs Continuing Education. Register: 518-583-4782.

TUESDAY, APRIL 8Open 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.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9Wonder Woman Syndrome: The Power of the Nervous System & Women’s Health – 6pm. Dr. Kerstin Medwin will discuss harnessing the power of women’s bodies; teaching participants how to diagnose what she calls “Wonder Woman Syn-drome.” Free. Albany Total Wellness, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. RSVP: 518-435-1280.

TUESDAY, APRIL 1Family Home Remedies – 10:30am. Discuss dangers of OTC and prescription medications. Dis-cover alternative methods to have a healthy family. Free. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. RSVP: Facebook event page or Dr. Shade: 518-477-5000.Massage Demonstration and Information Session – 6-7:30pm. Learn about massage therapy training programs, life-long placement services and financial aid. Observe a chair massage demonstration and tour the school. Free. CNW School of Massage Therapy, 3 Cerone Commercial Dr, Albany. RSVP: 518-489-4026.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2Inner & Outer Beauty Circle – 7-8:30pm. Like-hearted women, eager to become joyful beings. Discover how to create a beauty parlor at home. Say “Adieu” to cellulite and start spring without wrinkles. $27/product samples. IKIERA, 34 Cem-etery Rd, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.

THURSDAY, APRIL 3Holistic Moms Network: Gardening & Compost – 6pm. Group discussion. Bring your favorite seed catalogs, books, websites, and experiences, both good and bad. Kids welcome but be mindful of the presenter and others’ experiences. Saratoga Spgs Public Library, Dutcher Room, 49 Henry St. Info: [email protected].

FRIDAY, APRIL 4Gong Lab – 4pm. An hour of relaxation and medita-tion in a sonic environment. Hot Yoga Saratoga, 75 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-389-2200.Inner Peace, Inner Power Retreat – 5-8:30pm Fri thru 11am Sun. A weekend for authentic spiritual seekers on the path of self-discovery. Experience 8 spiritual powers that can be applied directly to real life situations. Peace Village, Haines Falls Pre-registration requested: 518-589-5000.

Nia “Glow in the Dark” Dance Party – 7-8pm. Come dance, smile and play as we free our spirits while dancing with glow in the dark jewelry. $20. Joy of Nia Movement, Guilderland. RSVP: 518-452-3679.

SATURDAY, APRIL 5Saratoga Baby & Toddler Expo – 10am-2pm. Booths for everything needed to learn about hav-ing and caring for a baby or a toddler including birth options, choosing a pediatrician, preschool decisions and how to lose the pregnancy weight. Free. Saratoga Independent School, 459 Lake Ave. SaratogaBabyExpo.comDay of Pampering – 11am-1pm or 2-4pm. Includes massage, facial, life reading and detoxing foot bath. $109. Limited space. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Am-sterdam Rd (Rte 5), Scotia. Register: 518-372-4706.Energetic Protection – 1-4pm. With Brenda Jenks. Recognize when one's personal energy field is compromised, how to first cleanse/remove intrusive energy and how to set up protective energies to prevent further interference. $45. Preregistration required. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.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, Fellow-ship Hall, 3041 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Niskayuna. Info: 518-213-4724.


TUESDAY, APRIL 15Making Herbal Salves Workshop – 6:30-8pm. Learn the process of making herbal infusions, complete an herbal materia medica, learn the proper ratios for carrier oils and hard waxes and more. $35 including materials. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.

Law of Attraction Workshop – 7-9pm. This is an interactive workshop looking at how our thoughts create our reality. $25. Sponsored by New Thought New York at Pine Hollow Arboretum, Slingerlands. Register: 518-466-6846.Reclaiming Your Inner Magician: Energy Tools to Create a Phenomenal Life – 7:15-9pm. What pos-sibilities could one create if able to turn everything around that seems to be holding them back and to claim, own and acknowledge the advantages indi-viduals actually possess? Hosted by Transformation-al Specialist Barbra Gilman. $35. Held in Saratoga Spgs. Registration required: 929-777-0873.

Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 7:45-8:45pm. Learn to make permanent changes in life and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other proven techniques used in a group setting. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16Monthly Movie Night – 6-8pm. Hungry for Change. Movie screening and discussion with Certi-fied Nutritionists. Learn from the experts how we are starving ourselves into disease and the power of eating a whole food diet. $10 donation. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd (Rte 5), Scotia. Registration: 518-372-4706.Pathways to Family Wellness Group Gathering – 6:30-7:30pm. Educational outreach program con-necting practitioners with families in the empower-ing and emerging paradigm of holism and conscious choice which means making informed health choices that are right for the family. Kids welcome. Ferguson Family Chiropractic, 1783 Rte 9, Clifton Park. Info: 518-383-5595.Inner & Outer Beauty Circle – 7-8:30pm. See April 2 for details. IKIERA, 34 Cemetery Road, Clifton Park. Info: 518-788-7062.

THURSDAY, APRIL 17Healing Waters of Saratoga: Digestion – 12-1:30pm. Join Aime “Trent” Millet as he talks about the health and history of the healing springs of Saratoga Springs. He will focus on the springs that have been known to help with digestive health. Free. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.

FRIDAY, APRIL 18Gong Lab – 6:15pm. An hour of relaxation and meditation in a sonic environment. Pilates Principle, 578 New Loudon Rd, Latham. Info: 518-389-2200.

SATURDAY, APRIL 19Chronic Low Milk Supply – 10am. Are you a mother unable to breastfeed your baby due to low milk supply? Join other moms for support. Free. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. RSVP: Kate at 518-926-0112.

SATURDAY, APRIL 19 – SUNDAY, APRIL 20

Anniversary & Earth Day Celebration – 10am-6pm Sat; 11am-3pm Sun. Free tree seedlings, live music, food samplings, faerie hair, artist meetups, tea and kombucha sampling and more. Info: Crossroads Gifts and Wellness, Schenectady. 518-357-8366 or Crossroads’ Facebook page.

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SUNDAY, APRIL 20Meditation for World Peace – 6:30-7:30pm. Observe as the universe is filled with energy of lightness, radiance and peace. Together, peace, love and care will be sent to our world. For new and experienced meditators alike. Free. Peace Village, Haines Falls. 518-589-5000.

MONDAY, APRIL 21Raising Healthier Children While De-stressing Your Life – 6:30-7:30pm. Dr. John Ferguson will explore the potential physical, chemical and emo-tional sources of stress for parents and children and healthy ways to address their cause, allowing for proper development and optimal quality of life. Parents only. Ferguson Family Chiropractic, 1783 Rte 9, Clifton Park. Info: 518-383-5595.

TUESDAY, APRIL 22SlingBabies – 10am. Bring your own carrier to get tips, look at babywearing options, check out one from lending library (small fee). Free. Sage-Femme Midwifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. RSVP Face-book event page or call Katie at 518-669-8620. 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.

THURSDAY, APRIL 104th Annual “Canstruction” – Thru April 24. First Giving is striving to collect 50,000 cans and $50,000 for The Food Pantries for The Capital District. NYS Museum, 4th Flr, 260 Madison Ave, Albany. Nata-sha: 518-458-1167.

FRIDAY, APRIL 11Modern Cloth Diapering 101 – 10am. How to use/wash/care for the various types, cost analysis, how to diaper a newborn. $10 donation. Sage-Femme Mid-wifery, 527 Western Ave, Albany. RSVP: Facebook event page or Suzi at 518-813-9290.

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” tapping tech-niques to find immediate physical and psycho-logical 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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Awaken Your Inner Goddess Workshop – 4-8pm. Be liberated from ideas of beauty and status and still be creative, successful and happy as female beings. Celebrate womanhood and dance your inner goddess. $117. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Sara-toga Spgs. Info: 518-788-7062.Community Kirtan – 7-9pm. Ecstatic chanting from the Indian Bhakti (devotional) tradition. Everyone sings together from their hearts, regard-less of ability. Sing, dance or lie down and relax. No experience or special skill necessary. Kids welcome with supervision. $15 donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. 518-598-6968.Intro Dance Workshops – 11am-1pm/Intro to Fla-menco, 2-4pm/Intro to Tribal Fusion Belly Dance. $25 new guests. $35 returning guests. Nataraja Center for Movement Arts, Clifton Park. Register: 518-336-5506.

SUNDAY, APRIL 13HOPE 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.Potluck and Movie Night – 5:15pm dinner; 6pm movie. Join us for a screening of Wayne Dyer’s The Shift: From Ambition to Meaning. Followed by discussion. By donation. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton. Info: 518-423-3569.


SATURDAY, APRIL 26Massage School Exploration Day – 9am-1pm. Sample science class, self-care techniques, body-work demonstration. Receive a gift certificate for a free massage in the student clinic. $40/early registration, $50/same day. CNW School of Mas-sage Therapy, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. Register: 518-489-4026Become 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.Divine Harmony Spiritualist Church Service – 4pm. See April 5 for details. Niskayuna Reformed Church, Fellowship Hall, 3041 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Niskayuna. Info: 518-213-4724.

SUNDAY, APRIL 27LoveLift Class & Club – 10am-2pm. Experience 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. $150. Saratoga Spgs. Registration required. Transformational specialist, Barbra Gil-man: 929-777-0873.Tree Trek – 1-2pm. Explore the importance of trees and the different species in the Pine Bush. 1.0 mile hike over rolling terrain. Ages 7 and up. $3/pp, $5/family. Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Rd, Albany. Registration required: 518-456-0655.Shen Yun – 7:30pm. Humanity’s treasure was nearly lost, but through breathtaking music and dance, Shen Yun is bringing back this glorious culture. Proc-tor’s Theatre, 432 State St, Schenectady. Tickets: Proctors.org.

MONDAY, APRIL 28Introduction to Energy for Health & Heal-ing: Practical Tips for Taking Charge of Your Health – 6:30-9pm. Learn about your energy system as well as a powerful acupressure tapping technique to help you feel better. See how energy sensitivity can be used to assess health and check the compatibility of foods. $12. Shenendehowa Community Education, Clifton Park. Register: 518-881-0444.Monthly 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.Spiritual Living Circle – 7pm. Discussion of the April issue of Science of Mind magazine. Ask about a free 60-day online subscription to Science of Mind magazine. By donation. New Thought New York, 2 Imperial Ln, Charlton. Info: 518-423-3569.

plan aheadTHURSDAY, MAY 1CNW School of Massage Open House – 6-8pm. Learn about full and part-time massage therapy training programs, life-long placement services, financial aid, meet alumni and currently enrolled students. Free. CNW School of Massage Therapy, 3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany. RSVP: 518-489-4026.

SUNDAY, MAY 4Lovingkindness in the Face of Adversity – 7-9pm. With Sharon Salzberg. An evening of guided medita-tions, talks and time for Q & A. Free. First Unitarian Universalist Society, 405 Washington Ave, Albany. Info: 518-339-9443.

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, Colonie. Info and registration: SaiMaaAlbany.com.

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SUNDAY, MAY 25

SUNDAY, MAY 25Learn the Celtic Ways of the Wise – 9am-5pm May 24-25, June 21-22, Aug 2. Five-day, weekend-only workshop with small circle led by Rev. Lady Tiamar. Learn and grow in your own spiritual practice. Experience ritual techniques and methods in a safe and support-ive environment. Full details and register: ClanOfTheDragon.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 cosmet-ics, herbs, oils, snacks, raffles and kids’ activities. Holiday Inn Express, 400 Old Loudon Rd, Latham. Info: 518-788-7062.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23Digestive Health Workshop: Digestive Health and its Role on the Immune System and Systemic Health – 6:30-8pm. Lecture led by Dr. Heidi Rasmussen, MD. Free. Saratoga Botanicals, 80 Henry St, Saratoga Spgs. RSVP: 518-306-4108.

THURSDAY, APRIL 24Green 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.Mental Illness/Substance Abuse – 6:30pm. Presen-tation by Gail Moore, LMSW. Free. SUNY School of Public Health, 1 University Place, Rensselaer. Register: NAMI Rensselaer County: 518-588-6949.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 Bar-ney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.

FRIDAY, APRIL 25Freedom from Attachments Retreat – 5-8:30pm Fri thru 11am Sun. A weekend retreat for the spiritual explorer covering a range of topics including karmic relationships and karmic bondages, and spiritual con-cepts around the soul and God. Peace Village, Haines Falls Pre-registration requested: 518-589-5000.

FRIDAY, APRIL 25Community Massage 1 Year Anniversary: Open House Celebration – 5-8pm. Discover your urban oasis during Troy Night Out. Meet the practitioners and learn how a variety of therapies can help you feel better. Light snacks and refreshments, free chair massage, raffles, and beautiful artwork by community artists. Door prizes, specials, and discounts. 255 River Street, Troy. Info: 518-272-1400 or TroyCommunityMassage.com.

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

dailyLocal Art Show at Community Massage – 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 followed up by short discussion. About 75-min. All contemplative traditions honored. $10 donation. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-450-1624.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.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.Restorative Yoga Workshop – 7-8:45pm. Last Sun. Receive the support of pillows, bolsters, blankets and loving hands while resting in healing yoga

Pilates: Basic Mat Class – 5:30pm. Healing With Movement Pilates, 2021 Western Ave, Albany. $20/class. Penny: 518 669-9677.Lyme Support Group – 6pm. 2nd Tues. Share sto-ries, frustrations and achievements. Find support and 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. Thru Apr 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, 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. Conscious Movements, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Register: 518-629-5664.Holistic Healthy Living Group Program – 6:30-8pm. Ready to beat disease, be energized, lose weight, be happy, make sustainable changes and live well? Intimate: 8 per class max. Info: 518-880-6707.Hypnosis Workshop – 6:30-9:30pm. Find out more about hypnosis with NGH hypnosis in-structor, George Guarino. $12.50. Albany. Info: 518-256-6549.An Evening with the Docs – 7pm. 2nd Tues. Evening 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.

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 preg-nancy and those with stroller-aged children. Cardio drills, strength training exercises and stretching. First class free. Clifton Park. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.Baby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 9:30-10:30am. All fit-ness levels: 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.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.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 Well-ness, 130 Everett Rd, Albany. Register: 518-595-3067.

tuesdayBody Fat Screening/Blood Pressure Testing – 11am-2pm. Personal Trainer Jeff Grayson Miller has instruments to test body fat and blood pressure and the know-how to translate those numbers into healthy information. Free. Honest Weight Food Co-Op, 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany. Info: 518-482-2667.Classical Hatha Yoga – 4:30-5:45pm or 6:30-7:45pm. Practice yoga in its purest state. Reduce stress and pain. $15/drop in or $70/6 classes. Vitality Health Center, 3441 Amsterdam Rd (Rte 5), Scotia. Register: 518-372-4706.


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.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 tod-dlers with a certified lactation counselor available to answer any questions or concerns. Anyone pregnant and thinking about breastfeeding welcome. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Info: 518-274-2229.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.Cancer Support Group – 12-1pm. Every other Thurs. Release feelings of isolation, confusion, anxiety, identity crisis and day-to-day uncertainties among people wanting to improve their quality of life. Donations welcome. One Big Roof, 433 Broadway, 3rd Flr, Saratoga Spgs. Info/dates: 518-450-1624.Kid’s Yoga – 4:30-5:30pm. Develop strength, coor-dination, density for growing bones, flexibility for muscle resilience and maximum nutrient absorption. Learn relaxation techniques and more. $88 eight weeks; $17 drop-in. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Info: 518-744-5565.Pilates: Intermediate Mat Class – 5:30pm. Heal-ing With Movement Pilates, 2021 Western Ave, Albany. $20/class. Penny: 518 669-9677.Baby Boot Camp: Strollfit – 6-7pm. See Monday for details. Loudonville. RSVP: Britta, 518-222-5642.New Beginnings Meditation Course – 6-7:30pm. Thru April 24. Learn to see and experience life filled with only positive energy like peace and love. Bring happiness back, no matter what is happening. Es-tablish and strengthen a relationship with the source of all goodness. Free. Peace Village, Haines Falls. Pre-registration requested: 518-589-5000.Holistic Healthy Living Group Program – 6:30-8pm. Ready to beat disease, be energized, lose weight, be happy, make sustainable changes and live well? Intimate: 8 per class max. 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.Applying The Four Agreements to My Life – 7-9:30 pm. 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1. A powerful interac-tive workshop series looking at ways to apply the four agreements (from Don Miguel Ruiz’s book, The Four Agreements) into our lives. $80.Pre-registration required. Space is limited. Sponsored by New Thought New York at Pine Hollow Arboretum, Slingerlands. Register: 518-466-6846.

fridayKundalini Yoga – 9:30-11am. Taught by Yogi Bha-jan, Kim Rossi. Donation. Lincoln Bath House at the Saratoga Spa State Park, front door entrance; walk to the rear of the 1st Flr, 39 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Spgs. Info: 518-321-5660.Infant Massage – 10-11:30am. Thru May 1. In this 5 wk series, you will learn specific techniques of how to massage your baby as well as ways to con-nect and listen to baby. Birth-six months. Naturally Grown, 282B River St, Troy. Info: 274-2229.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 experi-ences the benefits of sound meditation by practicing mantras. $15 suggested donation. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.Journeying with the Goddess – 7pm. 3rd Fri. With Rev Angela Pace-Lunz. Be guided through ancient religions, forgotten traditions and untold stories of the goddess from all over the world. History, ceremony and healing while connecting with the divine feminine. BYO journal and pen. $13. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. Preregister: 518-744-5565.Chat it Up – 7-8pm. Explore solutions for life’s challenges through group co-shared experiences. Insight and guidance by LisaMarie, certified holistic health counselor, Reiki master/teacher $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. Drum-ming is healing and a powerful sound meditation. No experience necessary. The Yoga Lily, 1 Barney Rd, Ste 222, Clifton Park. RSVP: 518-744-5565.

saturdayHolistic Healthy Living Group Program – 10-11:30am. Ready to beat disease, be energized, lose weight, be happy, make sustainable changes and live well? Intimate: 8 per class max. 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.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 postures with ancient breath repeated 21 times. Reputed to strengthen the body, enhance energy, re-generate body and mind and stem the aging process. $8. In Harmony Yoga, 137 Remsen St, Cohoes. Info: 518-369-8325.Releasing Weight Group Sessions – 12:30-1:30pm. 3rd Sat. Make permanent life changes and become empowered to be healthier and happier. Hypnosis and other proven techniques used. Topics include: emotional eating, stress, exercise, goals and habits. $20. Key 2 Joy, 145 Vly Rd, Ste 6, Shaker Pine Plaza, Colonie. Info: 518-598-6968.

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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 16.

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 35.

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 22.

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

C o n s c i o u s l y s o r t o u t relationships, health, career and all life altering situations through the natal chart. Radio

talk-show host, teacher and astrologer for over 25 years.

BODYWORK

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

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

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

Bodywork Professionals are sk i l l ed , ded ica ted , ca ree r therapists who specialize in the art and science of effective soft tissue massage therapy and a variety of bodywork moralities. See ad, page 33.

CEREMONIES

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.

naturaldirectoryCHIROPRACTIC

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

The “Chiropractor for your family”. With 10 years of pediatric/family wellness care experience, Dr. John is committed to healthy lifestyle changes for the family. See ad, page 15.

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

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 16.

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 22.

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.

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

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


ENERGY HEALING

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

Joyce brings to her Reiki practice her knowledge and experience in dealing with chronic and acute health issues as well as her passion for focusing on the health and wellness of the individual. See ad, page 14.

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 20.

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 23.

FENG SHUI/SPACE CLEARING

BRENDA C. JENKS518-321-5940FengShuiBCJ.com

Brenda will assess physical and non-physical infl uences in your home or business and then suggest appropriate adjustments to ensure your environment supports you physically, emotionally and fi nancially. 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 fi tness levels. See ad, page 27.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

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

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

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

Ear th ly Remedies makes all-natural hand sa lves , l ip ba lms, h e r b a l t i n c t u r e s ,

deodorants, baby products, pet products and more; all made locally with only the best organic ingredients. See ad, page 20.

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

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

affordable and locally owned.

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

Specializing in green home renovation for families and businesses. Supplier of non-toxic interior fi nishes for walls, fl oors, counter tops. Showroom features natural and organic mattresses, and bedding. See ad, page 19.

GRIEF/LOSS

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

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

loss, depression, PTSD, and sudden death loss.

GROCERY

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

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

1995. See ad, page 13.

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 2.

HEALINGSARA BEACHInspiring Wellness Solutions1-888-581-5526Info@InspiringWellnessSolutions.comInspiringWellnessSolutions.com

Sara is a licensed esthetician, certifi ed medical esthetician and Reiki II practitioner who is experienced in manual lymphatic drainage, shiatsu facial massage techniques and ear candling. See ad, page 15.


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 33.

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.

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

Pranic Healing is a no-touch, no-d r u g h e a l i n g m o d a l i t y. Experience healing for physical, emotional , psychological , fi nancial, and relationship issues.

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 7.

HOLISTIC HEALTH COUNSELING

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

LisaMarie helps clients to be healthy and live a fulfi lled life. Combining education and experience in nutrition, counseling, coaching and healing with 25 years of specifi ed health care, she digs to the root of issues, helping clients make

sustainable natural dietary and lifestyle changes. 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.

HOMEOPATHY

JEROME MICHAEL PINDELLNiskayuna, Clifton Park & NYC518-374-5492 • [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.

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 16.

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 13.

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 22.

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 7.

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 28.


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.

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

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

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

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

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 19.

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.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

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

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

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

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

Studio (North Greenbush). See ad, page 36.

MYSTIC

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

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

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

NATURAL BEAUTY

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

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


NUTRITION COACH

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

David is a holistic health and nutrition coach with extensive experience in the health care fi eld. Specializing in the needs of men in mid-life and weight concerns for men and women. See ad, page 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 22.

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 35.

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 35.

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 38.

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.

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

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

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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 10.

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 14.

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.

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.

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 15.

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 22.

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 9.

THERMOGRAPHY

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

Detect changes at the cellular level years before a mammogram. Clearer results, fewer additional tests, allowing for dietary and lifestyle changes. See ad, page 10.

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 16.

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.

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

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


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

WORKSHOPS/RETREATS

BONA FIDE BUTTERFLIES518-532-0275BonafideButterflies.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Experience the tranquility of weekend retreats, vegetarian food and special day events for the Capital District. Learn to meditate, be open to life-changing experiences and find inner peace and power. Relax, refresh and renew. See ad, page 32.

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 31.

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

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

Rejuvenation, Yoga Basics, Detox Flow and Pre-Natal. See ad, page 27.

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, Niskayuna518-429-1455 • SolunaYoga.com

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

in their yoga experience. See ad, page 28.

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.

DONATIONS

NEEDED – Blankets, quilts, sheets, and towels for animal rescue organization. Call/text: 518-269-2447.

HEALING

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

HELP WANTED

CARPENTER – See ad, page 43.

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

SPA SALES ASSOCIATE – Massage Envy, Slingerlands: 518-478-0900.

MAIL ORDER

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

MASSAGE

LOVE & GRATITUDE Therapeutic Massage – Head, Neck, & Feet Special: $55 for one hour. 747 Madison Ave. Albany. 518-475-2805.

SALES OPPORTUNITY

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

SPACE AVAILABLE

GUILDERLAND – Seeking acupuncturist, refl ex-ologist, holistic practitioner or nutritionist to join established, quiet, relaxed massage/skin care offi ce. Utilities, ample parking, shared lobby/waiting room. Kim: 518-688-1490

VOLUNTEER

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

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

WEB DESIGN

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


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