Bark Fest at Progressive Animal Hospital’s New White Plains Location

Dr. Andrew Frishman and staff at Progressive Animal Hospital

On Sunday, June 2, Progressive Animal Hospital in White Plains teams up with Best Friends Pet Care to present Bark Fest, featuring pet adoptions, discounted microchips, vendors and free giveaways. Bark Fest, which runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., will also offer first aid information for pets from the Red Cross, a demonstration from the Westchester County K-9 Police, doggy ice cream and free exams for all pet adoptions.

Dr. Andrew Frishman, owner of Progressive Animal Hospital in Somers, recently expanded his practice to include the White Plains location. As an integrative practitioner, Frishman combines the best of modern veterinary medicine with such proven holistic therapies as acupuncture and Chinese herbs. 

In addition to routine services such as wellness exams and vaccines, Progressive Animal Hospital provides advanced diagnostics, dental care, allergy testing, and orthopedic surgery. “One of our goals in the practice is to feature state-of-the-art medicine and diagnostic testing,” says Frishman. “We are pleased to offer ultrasound services and endoscopy as a means of providing a higher level of quality care to our patients.” Frishman and his staff also make house calls, keep specialists on call and offer free, on-line services. 

Progressive Animal Hospital is located at 110 S. Kensico Ave. (at Best Friends Pet Care) in White Plains, NY, and 149 Route 202 and Lovell St. in Somers, NY. For more information, call 914.461.3353 (White Plains) or 914.248.6220 (Somers) or visit Progressive-vet.com.

Shamanic Retreats, Environmental Training, Maternity Fair & body, mind and spirit Awaken Fair in Westchester

A Shamanic Retreat with Don Oscar Miro-Quesada at Wainwright House

The Center for Holistic Practices and Psychotherapy presents a weekend retreat entitled Caring, Curing & Community: Befriending the Three Muses of Shamanism, from April 19 through 21 at Wainwright House in Rye, New York. The event will be led by Don Oscar Miro-Quesada, a respected Peruvian teacher and master ceremonialist.

Organizers say that the weekend is designed to offer participants a heartfelt deepening of their shamanic life. Miro-Quesada is a respected Peruvian kamasqa curandero, or shaman, a UN Observer to the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, an OAS Fellow in Ethnopsychology and a member of the Birth 2012 Welcoming Committee convened by Barbara Marx Hubbard. He has dedicated his life to the revitalization of ethno spiritual wisdom traditions as a way to restore sacred trust between humankind and the natural world. Miro-Quesada’s work has been featured on CNN, Univision, A&E and the Discovery Channel. For more information about his Peruvian shamanism, visit Mesaworks.com.

All are welcome to Caring, Curing & Community: Befriending the Three Muses of Shamanism, and there are no pre-requisites. Participants can register online at CenterforHolisticPractices.com/Special-Events.html. The fee is $400 for the workshop and all meals. Lodging at Wainwright House is available for an additional cost.

 Wainwright House is located at 260 Stuyvesant Ave. in Rye, NY. For more information call 914.967.6080 or visit Wainwright.org.

Third Annual Sassy Ladies Shopping Night Out

Events to Remember (ETR) presents its third annual “Sassy Ladies Shopping Night Out™” on Friday, April 19, from 5:30 to 10 p.m. The event takes place at the DoubleTree Hotel in Tarrytown, New York, and offers a fashion show, stylist tips, food and wine samples, a cash bar and live DJ music.

“It’s the place to be for sassy, lively, bold and spirited women,” says ETR president Chereese Jervis-Hill. “There will be plenty of opportunities to shop from our wonderful vendors, lots of fun, and goody bags while they last for those who pre-register.”

Attendees will be eligible for complimentary raffle giveaways throughout the evening, and one Sassy Lady will win a Coach handbag. “We’re also donating a portion of the proceeds to two wonderful Westchester County nonprofits, Support Connection and the Lindenbaum Comprehensive Cancer Center at Hudson Valley Hospital Center,” Jervis-Hill says. Admission to Sassy Ladies Shopping Night Out is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets may be ordered at SassyLadiesTarrytown.eventbrite.com.

ETR plans social and corporate events, “green meetings” and expos for a variety of clients. Their largest expo is the York-town Festival and Street Fair, with 225 vendors and 25,000 attendees.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is located at 455 S. Broadway in Tarrytown, NY. For more information, visit EventsRemember.com, call 914.396.7664 or email EventsCJH@EventsRemember.com.

Training and Inspiring Tomorrow’s Environmentalists

The Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation (CELF) in Chappaqua, New York, is on a mission to educate students for the environmental challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. CELF Student Ambassadors (SAMs) train in sustainability issues, gain hands-on experience and develop interpersonal skills while making a difference in their own communities and around the globe.

SAMs discuss pressing environmental, economic and social issues and gain inspiration from such innovative real-world solutions as LifeStraw water filters. They build relationships within and across schools while representing CELF at local, regional and national events. Throughout April and May, SAMs will be giving presentations on the freshwater crisis, and demonstrations of LifeStraw filters, at numerous area school and community events. SAMs will also present at the annual conference of the Green Schools Alliance on April 20 in New York City, the Green Festival at the Jacob Javits Center on April 20 and 21 and the EPA P3 Sustainable Design Competition and Expo in Washington, DC, from April 19 to 21.

The CELF Student Ambassador program is free to all area high school students. Educators interested in learning how to use sustainability as a lens for teaching can get involved in the CELF Summer Institute: Education for Sustainability, held at Manhattanville College from July 15 to 18.

For more information, visit CELFEducation.org, contact katie@CELFEducation.org or call 914.238.4743.

Maternity Fair for Those Expecting and Those Considering

The Hudson Valley Hospital Center (HVHC) presents a Maternity Fair on Sunday, May 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The theme of this year’s event is “The Art of Having a Baby: Planning, Pregnancy and Parenting.” It features tours of the HVHC Maternity Department, workshops on pregnancy and parenting and financial planning advisers to counsel would-be parents and those expecting a baby.

“The Maternity Fair offers practical advice on the road to parenthood, even for those who are not yet pregnant, but just considering having a baby,” says HVHC marketing director Victoria Hochman. “Visitors can see the newest baby gadgets and meet wonderful obstetricians during our speed dating segment, ‘How to choose the best OB.’ We’ll also have a ‘What Not to Wear’ maternity fashion show.’”

HVHC is a recognized Baby Friendly USA hospital, encouraging breastfeeding and natural options for pregnancy and motherhood. Presenters at the Maternity Fair include the Northeast Doulas, the International Cesarean Awareness Network and HVHC’s acupuncturist Jillian Schwartz.

The Hudson Valley Hospital Center is located at 1980 Crompond Rd. in Cortlandt Manor, NY. For more information, call 914.734.3794 or visit the maternity page at HVHC.org. 

Rare Geodes at Rye Arts Center

Nature and art will come together at a rare geode exhibit opening April 20 at the Rye Arts Center. Curated by Gail Harrison Roman, PhD, “Nature’s Art: Geodes” will highlight natural and manmade pieces from the private collection of Robert R. Wiener. The exhibit will run through May 24.

Geodes—colorful crystalline structures that form inside a hollow spheroidal rock—are known for their natural beauty and prismatic color. Wiener says he chose to premiere the collection in spring to highlight its environmental context. “I collect because of the beauty of the objects and the joy they give me when I look at them,” he says. “I hope others will appreciate them as well.” An opening reception will be held at the Rye Arts Center April 20 from noon to 4 p.m.

The Center also will be displaying paintings and sculptures by local and international artists who use elemental materials and the earth itself as creative inspiration, including Katherine Dufault, Chen-Long Lin, Leigh Wen and William Holton.

The Rye Arts Center is located at 51 Milton Rd., Rye, NY. For more info, visit RyeArtsCenter.org.

Car Show in Mount Kisco Focuses on Energy-Efficient Future

New York State’s first fuel-efficient car show will be held April 28 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Grand Prix New York at the Park in Mount Kisco. Organized by Energize Bedford, a community-based energy efficiency program funded through state and federal grants, the Bedford 2020 Car Show will present the future of driving today. The show is free and open to the public.

The event is designed to show attendees the transportation revolution that is happening today, from fuel-efficient hybrids to electric cars and electricity sources that provide a future free from fossil fuels. Attendees will be able to drive the latest in electric, hybrid and electric/hybrid vehicles on the market, all in one place. Organizers hope visitors will leave the show with compelling information that will influence their next purchase decision toward an energy-efficient or alternative-energy vehicle.

The show will feature a Ride and Drive, where drivers can test drive new electric, hybrid and electric/hybrid vehicles; an Owner’s Corner, where current owners of these types of cars can discuss them with visitors; interactive demonstrations and displays of electric charging stations, solar carports, and conversion cars; and displays of cutting-edge municipal and corporate fleet vehicles, from electric to biofuel, with specific data about cost savings. The event will also feature music, food and entertainment.

The Grand Prix New York at the Park is located at 333 N. Bedford Rd., Mount Kisco, NY. For more info, visit EnergizeBedford.org.

Awaken Fair on Saturday, April 20, 2013, Offers Holistic Nourishment

Healers, speakers, readers, vendors and anyone in need of holistic nourishment are invited to feed their body, mind and spirit at the Awaken Wellness Fair, taking place Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel in Tarrytown, NY. The biggest such expo north of NYC, the Awaken Fair educates the public about advancements in complementary and holistic health, with a focus on personal growth and metaphysics.

According to event organizer Paula Caracappa, founder of PPC Group LLC, the Fair will feature an array of exhibitor booths offering crystal, gemstones, Reiki-infused jewelry, natural and botanical cosmetic products, and healthy foods and supplements. There will also be intuitive readings and Akashic Records reviews, tarot cards and crystal readings. “Appointments are already being booked for the ever-popular medium, Adam Bernstein,” Caracappa says. “Curious minds can take in lessons on pranic healing, exploring past lives, and how to create resilience both personally and within the family.” More than 20 lectures are scheduled for the hotel’s Speakers Rooms.

Guests can visit AwakenFair.com ahead of time to create a personalized itinerary based on lectures, healers and holistic exhibitors of particular interest to them. “Those who choose to pre-register online can also pre-book appointments with their favorite readers and healers,” Caracappa says. Admission is $10 online through April 17, or $15 at the door. 

 The Tarrytown Doubletree Hotel is located at 455 North Broadway. The first 500 attendees will receive a free, colorful, eco-friendly reusable shopping bag for holding goodies, information and coupons. Tickets are available online at AwakenFair.com; exhibitors can sign up at ThePractitioners.com.

Workshops on Shamanic Fundamentals and Healing Practices

Eileen O’Hare, a legacy carrier in Peruvian shamanism, is offering two shamanic teaching weekends this spring. First, O’Hare will offer “Fundamentals of Shamanism” from April 26 through 28 at The Healing House in Beacon, New York. The workshop will present the basic principles and practices of working with the world of living energies.

“We’ll cover clearing the energy of ourselves, our space and others, along with the Seven Directions, the Three Worlds, the Five Elements and shamanic journeying for totem animals and spirit guides,” says O’Hare, who also conducts private healing sessions and wedding ceremonies. The cost of the April retreat is $222 for commuters and $444 for those staying at The Healing House.

Over Memorial Day weekend, O’Hare will teach Andean Healing Practices in the Adirondacks. “This retreat is for all levels of shamanic experience and will include principles of Peruvian shamanism and core practices to assist people in healing body, mind and spirit,” she says. “These teachings assist and support anyone who has received the Munay Ki Rites of this powerful lineage.” The May retreat is being sponsored by The Community of The Crystal Heart at Adirondack Star Ridge in AuSable, New York. It begins with dinner on Friday, May 24, and ends after dinner on Sunday, May 26. The fee of $400 includes teachings and all meals. Lodging is an additional cost.

For more information and to register, call 845.831.5790 or email xoeolovemore@gmail.com.

A Certification Workshop for Intuition & Psychic Development

Lisa K. presents a new certification workshop for intuition and psychic development on May 4 and 5 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Tarrytown, New York. Developing Your Intuition presents information on how to go from having occasional intuitive experiences, or none at all, to developing intuition and psychic abilities that can lead to abundance, happiness, health and romance.

“I learned how to develop my psychic abilities as an adult, and I now do intuitive readings for people around the world,” says Lisa K. “Through extensive research and experience, I discovered the keys to developing strong intuitive and psychic skills, based in both science and metaphysics. I’ve since taught many people how to become proficient in using their intuition.”

The weekend workshop will explain the learning process of psychic development, help students discover their strongest inborn intuitive abilities and show them methods and techniques to make intuition happen at will. The class will also cover the science behind the psychic mind and body, and how to develop energy sensitivity, control and protection. Students will learn how to call on sources of divine guidance and practice exercises to increase clarity. All students will receive a detailed handbook and a Level One certificate.

 The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is located at 455 S. Broadway in Tarrytown, NY. For more information, call 914.432.7886, email angelreadings@LMK88.com or visit LMK88.com.

An Event for Fit and “Tough” Adults, Kids and Teens

Fitness enthusiasts young and not so young are invited to support the Toughman Half Iron and the Toughkid and Toughteen triathlons that will take place at Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson on Sept 7 and 8. Registration is now open for all who wish to participate in this swimming, biking and running event.

This year’s sixth annual Toughman Half Iron event is expected to draw more than 1000 athletes, 1,500 volunteers and 12,000 spectators over the course of the race weekend. The event has raised more than $700,000 for 56 charities in the last 5 years. A barbecue for all registered athletes will be held on Sunday starting at 12:30 p.m. at the Finish Line Festival. Additional tickets for family and friends will be available for $10.

The Toughteen race is also holding a championship event in which the high school that brings the most students to race will receive a $400 grant. The Toughkids triathlon series, which features races in Connecticut, New York, Indiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, will take place at Croton Point Park on Saturday, September 7. The event also features a health expo from 1 to 5 p.m., and opening ceremonies will begin at 6:30 a.m.

Croton Point Park is located at 1A Croton Point Ave. in Croton-on-Hudson, NY. For more information and to register, visit TOUGHMANTri.com, TOUGHTEENTri.com or TOUGHKidstri.com.

Yoga Classes for Teachers, Drumming, Quakers, Women’s Retreat and more, March 2013 in Westchester and Putnam NY

Event Briefs from Natural Awakenings Magazine – Westchester/ Putnam NY Edition.

For more great news and events, visit WakeUpNaturally.com

Continuing Education Programs for Westchester Yoga Teachers

Living Yoga, a vinyasa studio in Cold Spring, is launching a Teacher’s Advancement Program. The continuing education program is designed to provide an inspiring environment in which yoga teachers can further their training, ask questions and brainstorm with other teachers.

The first offering of the series is an Assisting Workshop for Yoga Teachers, providing guidance and refinement of hands-on assisting. It takes place on March 2 from 1 to 4 p.m. and the cost is $50. In April, program directors Richard Villella and Liz Schulman will offer a vinyasa intensive for yoga teachers from April 19 to 21 and April 27 and 28. “This two-weekend certification will teach current yoga teachers the skills of leading and sequencing a vinyasa class,” says Schulman. “They’ll also explore ways in which to incorporate vinyasa into their current style of teaching.”

In addition to these workshops, Living Yoga offers four Level 3 classes per week and a monthly level 3-plus class for area yoga teachers. Future workshops will feature guest teachers and asana clinics.

Living Yoga is located at 3182 Rt.9, just south of I-84, in Cold Spring, NY. For more information, email info@LivingYogaStudios.com, call 845.809.5900 or visit LivingYogaStudios.com. Find them on Facebook at LivingYogaStudios.

Quaker Quest Sessions to Inform at Scarsdale Friends Meeting

The Scarsdale Friends Meeting presents Quaker Quest Programs that invite the public to learn more about this spiritual community. The get-acquainted sessions take place on Sunday afternoons, March 3, 10, and 17, from 2 to 4 p.m., and childcare and light refreshments will be available.

Quaker Quest sessions will center on sharing personal journeys and contemporary Quaker beliefs with the community at large. Each program will feature presentations by Scarsdale Friends Meeting members on a set topic, followed by small group discussions and question-and-answer opportunities. Topics include Quakers and the Spiritual Quest (March 3), Quakers and Environmental and Social Activism (March 10) and Quakers and Parenting (March 17).  At the end of each session, guests will be invited to participate in a Quaker worship meeting.

“Quaker core values include simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and silence,” says member Ginny Blanford. “They lead both to a spiritual path for our time that is simple, radical, and contemporary, and to the daily challenge of seeking ways in which to live by these values.” Scarsdale Friends Meeting, which was founded in the early 1940s, sponsors a nursery school, outreach programs in local shelters, and a prison ministry. The Quaker Quest program will be repeated in April.

The Scarsdale Friends Meeting is located at 133 Popham Rd., just off the White Plains Post Road, in Scarsdale, NY. For more information, call 914.946.8722 or visit ScarsdaleFriendsMeeting.org. Also find them at Facebook.com/ScarsdaleFriendsMeeting.

Admissions Introductory Session and Camp Open House at Blue Rock School

Families interested in enrollment in grades K-8 are invited to visit Blue Rock School during the school’s Introductory Session at 10 a.m., March 9. Parents can tour the wooded four-acre campus, meet Blue Rock faculty and hear how the school’s vibrant, creative environment nurtures children’s natural curiosity and fosters a lifelong love of learning.

At 2 p.m. the same day, parents and their children ages 3½ to 12 will have an opportunity to learn about the school’s adventure-filled, five-week Summer Play Camp. Campus tours will be given including the new Arts & Nature Studies Annex and pool, and adults can meet camp personnel, while their children enjoy staff-led games and activities. Summer Play is open to the community. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Blue Rock is a progressive, independent day school, founded in 1987 with a mission to offer an experiential approach to education that enables children to follow their natural curiosity, develop as independent thinkers and grow in a dynamic learning community. Students engage in a challenging academic curriculum that fully integrates the arts and nurtures their innate desire to learn.

Location: 110 Demarest Mill Rd. (off Germonds Rd.), West Nyack, NY. Morning attendees: RSVP to Admissions Director Beverly Stycos, at bluerockschool@verizon.net or 845.535.3353. Afternoon attendees: RSVP to summerplaycamp@gmail.com or 845.627.0234. For more information, visit bluerockschool.org.

A Nurturing Retreat for Women to Enhance Possibilities and Support

Precious Sellars-Mulhern & Melinda Martin

Psychologist and coach Precious Sellars-Mulhern, PhD, presents Precious Possibilities For Women, an annual retreat designed to bring women together to nurture and support one another. The next retreat takes place on Sunday, March 24, at Wainwright House in Rye.

“Each year the retreat deals with different issues that are important to women,” says Mulhern. “What is unique about this retreat is that women walk away with tools that enable them to address those issues. The underlying premise is that women who are empowered and enjoying life have more to offer their families, friends and colleagues.”

An associate professor in the Counseling Center at Borough of Manhattan Community College, Mulhern has entitled this year’s retreat, “Re-Scripting Your Life: Tapping Yourself To Joy.”  It features, Melinda Martin, LCSW, an expert in Energy Psychology and Emotional Freedom Technique, a method of meridian tapping that helps people to free themselves from traumas, pain and limiting beliefs.

“Women will learn techniques that are accessible to them at all times,” says Mulhern. “They’ll also engage in activities with other women in an elegant environment overlooking Milton Harbor, and they’ll leave feeling energized with support, tools and friendships to lift their spirits and spring them into action.”

Wainwright House is located at 260 Stuyvesant Ave. in Rye, NY. For more information and to register for the retreat, visit PreciousHealthandBeauty.com or call 914.522.5276.

Eileen Fisher Leadership Institute Accepting Applications for Summer Program

Eileen Fisher Leadership Institute graduates

The Eileen Fisher Leadership Institute (EFLI) has opened the application process for the 2013 summer session. Now in its fourth year, EFLI promotes leadership in young women through self-empowerment, connection with others and activism in Westchester County.

This summer, EFLI will offer two sessions of the twelve-day Activating Leadership program for first year participants. The sessions begin on July 15 and August 5. “Last year, thirty-nine talented and courageous young women participated in the Activating Leadership program,” says Program Coordinator Aimee Aubin. “This year EFLI plans to reach an even larger population, and to continue our Leading for Impact sessions for returning participants.”

Aubin says that EFLI will also carry on the LIFE Fellowship, a summer internship program for a select group of recent high school graduates. ELFI began in 2010 with a dozen girls and has now reached more than 150 young women with the three programs. “We anticipate that 2013 will be our best year yet,” says Aubin. “We have an incredible lineup of facilitators, both old and new, and we’re really looking forward to building a team of diverse and powerful young women to join the team.”

Applications may be submitted online at EFLI-Life.org and are due by any of the following deadlines: March 1, April 5 or May 3.

For more information, call 914.487.3354 or email EFLI@EileenFisherLeadershipInstitute.com.

 

Fishkill Cares for Cats Event Benefits Animals in Need

Sound Earth, New York’s only manufacturer of natural, pet-safe cleaning products, presents their annual Fishkill Cares for Cats benefit on Saturday, March 30. The family-oriented event takes place from noon to 4:30 p.m. at the Dutchess Plaza Shopping Center in Fishkill and features food, music, face painting, raffles and humane education and demonstrations. Proceeds go to Furry Friends Pet Rescue, Inc. of Hopewell Junction, Katmarroon, Inc. of Newburgh and the humane efforts of Sound Earth.

In addition to the festivities, The Animal Rights Alliance, Inc., a mobile spay and neuter clinic for cats, will provide low cost health services to cats on site. The service benefits animal rescue organizations, individuals and families who have not, for financial reasons, been able to spay or neuter their pets. Feline drop-off services are by appointment only and take place from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m., with pick-up times from 4 to 4:30 p.m. For complete details, to sponsor a cat or set up an appointment, visit SoundEarth.com/fishkillcares or call Ann at 845.489.2378. The first 50 cats to be dropped off will receive a goodie bag.

Fishkill Cares for Cats attendees will receive a free raffle ticket when they donate an item from any rescue center wish list, and adoption applications will be accepted. Sound Earth, which is recognized as a cruelty-free company, offers customizable, scented products that are safe for people, pets and the planet.

The Dutchess Plaza Shopping Center is located at 1545 Rte. 52 in Fishkill, NY. For more information about Sound Earth and Fishkill Cares for Cats visit SoundEarth.com.

Yoga Meets Spinning for Fitness and Fun

Gersh Rosen

YogaSpin, a new hybrid of yoga and spinning, is now offered at Apogee Fitness and Wellness in White Plains. YogaSpin was created by Gersh Rosen, an experienced yogi and cyclist who teaches the class.

“Experienced spinners will be challenged by Alpine climbs, rolling hills and soaring sprints simulated with my vivid and inspiring visualization techniques,” says Rosen. “Yogis and yoginis will recognize the integrated yoga elements of the class, including pranayama, vinyasa and savanasa.”

Rosen says that pranayama, or yogic breathing, synchronizes the heart, lungs and body in movement, resulting in sustained energy and power and extended aerobic thresholds during the YogaSpin workout. “There’s also an optional, exciting sing-along during a simulated climb that demonstrates the effectiveness of this breathing, and the vinyasa flow strengthens muscles and hastens recovery in stretch periods,” Gersh adds, noting that the cool-down period includes a guided meditation for integration and relaxation.

“This mind-body class achieves the best of both yoga and cycling,” says Rosen. “There’s serious core and muscle strengthening, heart-healthy breathing, major calorie burns, and an endorphin high. It ends with a real sense of calm and purpose.” YogaSpin is offered Mondays at 8 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. and Friday and Sunday at 10 a.m.

Apogee Fitness and Wellness is located at 140 Mamaroneck Ave. in White Plains, NY.

 

Shop, Wear and Walk to Support Parkinson’s Research

Natural Awakenings is an enthusiastic sponsor of the One T @ a Time fundraising campaign for the Parkinson’s Unity Walk on April 27.  The campaign raises money for Parkinson’s research through sales of 100% organic cotton t-shirts with the message, “As One, We Heal.”

“The design on this T-shirt was created by me and Mary Keunecke, as we are both intimately affected by Parkinson’s disease in our families and we share a passion for health and wellness,” says Justine Kawas, founder of the One T @ a Time campaign. “Each shirt sold eliminates waste, maintains a low carbon footprint and benefits Parkinson’s research.”

Kawas is also leading the One T @ a Time Team at the Parkinson’s Unity Walk in New York City’s Central Park. “We want to support organic healing and uniting in the world,” she says. “People can participate by buying a fundraising t-shirt at GreenChanges.org, wearing the shirt and sharing pictures on social media via #AsOneWeHeal, #NaturalAwakenings or #Unitywalk.”

Those wishing to support the cause can also walk with the One T @ a Time Team by registering at UnityWalk.org, entering the team name in the search bar and joining the team.

For more information regarding the One T @ a Time campaign or Team, contact Justine@GreenChanges.org and visit GreenChanges.org.

 

A Starry Nights Café to Brighten a Winter Evening

StarVisions, Inc. presents an evening of spiritual comedy and musical entertainment on Saturday, March 2, at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Mt. Kisco. Starry Nights Café begins at 7:30 p.m. and the cost is $20.

The evening features a unique spiritual improvisation routine by writer, poet, past-life regressionist and medium Jessica Lawrence, who brings in personalities “from the other side of the veil” with her Brooklyn accent. Audience participation will be encouraged for her tag team improvisation skits. The event will be topped off by the adult contemporary music of Westchester’s own Porter Smith, accompanied by singers Megan Longwell and Meirav Eytan.

“StarVisions is all about community,” says president Peter Ferrio. “We provide spiritual seekers with opportunities to connect with like minded individuals, not only during the programs that we offer throughout the year, but at social events like this one.” Doors open at 7:15 p.m. for the Starry Nights Café, and healthy snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be available.

The Unitarian Universalist Church is located at 236 South Bedford Rd., Mt. Kisco, NY. For more information, visit StarVisionsCommunity.org or call 914.236.4503.

Massage, Full Moon Drumming and Visualization Circles in Yonkers

After taking nearly a year off to heal a broken leg, Donna Costa is practicing massage therapy again. Costa returns with a remodeled therapy room, several new programs and package deals for bringing the relaxation of massage to clients’ homes.

Costa has also studied Native American spirituality and healing methods for more than two decades with such indigenous elders as Wallace Black Elk, Sun Bear, Bear Heart, Beautiful Painted Arrow and Nicki Scully. “I incorporate these healing modalities into my massage therapy and in ceremonies to help those dealing with addictions and with healing the child within,” she says.

As of this month, Costa is also offering Full Moon Drumming Circles and facilitating a monthly sharing group. “This group is for conjuring our hopes, dreams and goals,” she says. “It’s a safe place to share, support, and fine-tune ideas and dreams to create the future that participants envision. I’ll call on everyone to pool our energies and share visualizations to achieve common and personal goals.” Costa says that her monthly groups will start with a heart circle, followed by a meditation focused on sending ideas and dreams “out into the universe” to assist participants in achieving their highest and deepest hopes.

Donna Costa Massage Therapy is located at 58 Wickes Ave. in Yonkers, NY. For more information, call 914.907.4485, email CoyoteQn@aol.com or visit DreamDancerHealingMassage.com.

 

 

Anniversary Event and Speaker Series, November 15, at Sun & Moon Spa in Somers, NY

Dawn Wan of Sun & Moon Spa in Somers, NY

Sun & Moon Health Spa, in Somers, is celebrating their six-month anniversary on Thursday, November 15, from 7 to 9 p.m. The free event features Dawn Wan, a co-owner and practitioner at Sun & Moon Health Spa, discussing healthy alternatives for holiday eating and the need to maintain a regular detoxification regimen.

Carolyn Moss, a Shaklee distributor and educator, will also be on hand to talk about Shaklee’s all-natural cleansing products and nutritional supplements. Everyone who attends can enter a drawing to win a free colon hydrotherapy session, valued at $110, along with other prizes. Healthy food and beverages will be served at the anniversary event, which takes place in the newly renovated spa space.

The spa is also presenting a new bi-monthly series, “Sun & Moon Health Spa Presents…” featuring guest speakers discussing and demonstrating holistic health facets and practices.

Sun & Moon Health Spa is located at 155 Route 202 (Lovell St.) in the Village Shopping Plaza in Lincolndale (a hamlet of Somers). GPS users should input 55 Mill St. in Somers. For more information, call 914.617.8555 or visit SunandMoonHealthSpa.com.

Training Program for Volunteer Environmental Educators at Sheldrake Center Begins October 18

The Sheldrake Environmental Center in Larchmont presents a Volunteer Environmental Educator Training Program this fall for those who want to help kids learn more about the natural world. The 12-session program begins on Thursday, October 18, 2012.

“Studies show that kids are physically and mentally healthier, calmer and more creative if they spend time outdoors in nature,” says Sheldrake Program Director Mary Davis. “We invite area adults to be a part of kids’ excitement and discovery as they walk our trails. Participants can learn how to lead field trips and hear kids say, ‘This is the most awesome field trip ever.’”

Davis says that the Volunteer Environmental Educator Training Program covers fascinating facts about plants and animals that are right in most people’s backyards. “These are things that they might never have noticed before, and our trainees will learn fun ways to share their new knowledge with elementary school children,” she adds. “They’ll also meet others who care about our planet, enjoy learning and want to make a huge contribution to our community.”

Class size is limited so pre-registration is recommended by calling Mary Davis at 914.834.1443 or emailing progdirector@sheldrakecenter.org.

The Sheldrake Environmental Center is located at 685 Weaver St. in Larchmont. For more information visit SheldrakeCenter.org.

 

Lower your Blood Pressure Naturally and Permanently; Free Dinner Lecture Thursday, October 11, 2012

Dr. George Gertner

A Natural Approach to Hypertension: Study Shows Positive Results

One out of every four adults suffers from hy­pertension or high blood pressure, as it’s more commonly called. If you have it – you might be completely unaware that you have it because there usually aren’t any obvious symptoms that alert you to the presence of this condition. That’s the reason why hy­pertension is often called the “silent killer.” Many people with hypertension don’t realize that anything is wrong until the disease causes a major complication, such as a heart attack or a stroke. There are some people, however, who experience headaches, blurred vision, and dizziness – symptoms that may lead them to their doctor’s office where the condition is diagnosed as a result of a routine blood pressure check.

The Journal of Human Hypertension, WebMD, Science Daily and a number of other media sources, including ABC News and Good Morning America, have reported the results of a study that was conducted by George Bakris, MD, director of the Hypertension Center at the University of Chicago Medical Center, and Marshall Dickholtz, Sr., DC, Chiropractic Health Center, Chicago.

A special type of chiropractic adjustment, known as an upper cervical correction, can significantly lower high blood pressure, a placebo-controlled study suggests.

“This procedure has the effect of not one, but two blood-pressure medications given in combination,” study leader George Bakris, MD, told WebMD. “And it seems to be adverse-event free. We saw no side effects and no problems,” added Bakris, director of the University of Chicago hypertension center.

Eight weeks after undergoing the procedure, 25 patients with early-stage high blood pressure had sig­nificantly lower blood pressure than 25 similar patients who underwent a sham chiropractic adjustment. Because patients can’t feel the technique, they were unable to tell which group they were in.

X-rays showed that the procedure realigned the atlas vertebra (the doughnut-like bone at the very top of the spine) with the spine in patients who received the proper procedure; however this was not the case in the sham-treated patients. The proper procedure called for adjustment of the C-1 vertebra, also called the Atlas vertebra because it holds up the head, just as Atlas held up the world in Greek mythology.

Compared to the sham-treated patients, those who got the real procedure saw an average 14 mm Hg greater drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure count), and an average 8 mm Hg greater drop in diastolic blood pressure (the bottom blood pres­sure number). None of the patients took blood pressure medicine during the eight-week study.

Patient Testimonial:

“After a recent visit with my cardiologist, it came to my attention that my blood pressure was extremely high.  At that time it was 233/119. I was alarmed and began to do some research on how to naturally correct this problem. I am 70 years old, not overweight, eat well, and walk for exercise daily.  On the first visit, Dr. Gertner did a thorough exam including x-rays and discussed my problem.  He was very optimistic that he could help me, and that gave me hope. In only a few visits I saw my blood pressure begin to decrease.  After several months of care it is now reduced to a very normal 110/70.  In addition, I have less muscle tightness and have more energy.  My experience at UCC has been very positive and I recommend it without reservation.” – Sheila B./ NYC

As a unique and gentle approach to spinal care, NUCCA has had tremendous results and docu­mented research over the past 50 years. “So when you get to the point where you’ve been everywhere and thought you’ve tried everything, you will want to find out about the natural approaches to good health with Upper Cervical Chiropractic of New York,” says Gertner.  “We at Upper Cervical Chiropractic of NY, welcome the opportunity to tell you more about NUCCA and our chiropractic services. Please call us for your consultation.”

Dr. Gertner is one of only 200 doctors worldwide that performs the NUCCA procedure. He is the Founder & President of Upper Cervical Chiropractic of New York, 311 North Street, Suite 410, White Plains, NY 10605. For more info, to register for dinner lectures or for a consultation, call 914.686.62000 and visit ucc-ny.com.

 

Free Lectures and Coaching for Healthy Eating with Yolanda Faustini Stone

Yolanda Faustini Stone

Nutrition coach and chef Yolanda Faustini Stone, who provides personalized wellness programs for people throughout Westchester, is expanded her services and offering two free lectures this month. The talks include Eating for Energy on Wednesday, October 10, at Gilda’s Club Westchester, and Building a Healthy Immune System on Wednesday, October 17, at St. John’s Riverside Hospital. Both talks focus on the special nutritional challenges of cancer survivors.

Stone’s new services include private home cooking parties, healthy food shopping tours, kitchen assessments and pantry makeovers. “Good health begins in the kitchen,” says Stone. “I want to help my clients remove the major obstacles that get in the way of their health goals and allow them to set the foundation for success. I’ve helped many clients restore their well-being and overcome health challenges through diet and lifestyle modification.”

Throughout October, Stone is offering Natural Awakenings readers a 20 percent discount on any customized wellness program when they mention this news brief.

For more information about wellness programs and the two free lectures, e-mail yolanda@LiveHealthyNewYork.com or visit LiveHealthyNewYork.com.

 

Open House for New Anti-Aging Program In Larchmont on Oct 11, 2012

WellSpring Holistic & Green Health Center in Larchmont presents an open house on Thursday, October 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. The event, which will spotlight the center’s new anti-aging program, includes light refreshments.

“When you take care of yourself, age is just a number, and what we prevent in midlife is preventable in late life,” says WellSpring founder Brigitte Shotiminrin, a nutritionist and health care professional. “Technically we begin to age from the day we’re born, but most people don’t give it much thought until they begin to notice the signs of aging such as wrinkles, weight gain, weak bones, low libido, arthritic conditions and sluggishness.”

Shotiminrin says that she and her fellow practitioners at WellSpring offer a holistic, personalized anti-aging regimen that features internal cleansing, therapeutic and beautifying treatments, whole food nutrition and a good maintenance program for proper balance and internal organ health. The center is offering free consultations and a 10 percent discount throughout the month of October.

WellSpring Holistic & Green Health Center is located at 1415 Boston Post Rd., Suite 5, in Larchmont. To make an appointment, call 914.341.1246 or visit WellSpringHHC.com.

 

Recharge Retreats Launches Awakened Life Yoga with Yoga Teacher Trainings in Exotic Location

Recharge Retreats, a personal development organization that offers restorative retreats, self-development intensives and yoga certification courses, has launched Awakened Life School of Yoga. Awakened Life will offer 22-day intensive yoga teacher trainings in exotic locations including Bali, Nova Scotia and Mexico, as well as the Hudson Valley.

“Awakened Life teacher trainings offer a unique way to teach students through a robust faculty of experienced yoga teachers, doctors and personal development experts,” says Liz Carey, who co-owns Recharge Retreats along with her husband, Chris Sabido. “The 22-day program is affordable and includes intensive work in yoga, meditation, anatomy, physiology, philosophy and personal transformation.” Awakened Life will offer its first 200-hour training in Candidasa, Bali, in November and December of this year. The program will be offered again next year in Bali, Nova Scotia and the Hudson Valley.

Recharge Retreats and trainings are designed to enhance participants’ overall well-being, recharge their life, and help them find more peace of mind, Carey says. “The retreats are held at carefully selected venues that promote relaxation, reflection, healing and connection with others,” she says. “Activities include meditation, yoga, hiking, eco-adventure, integrative health services, guided self-development and, of course, lots of de-stressing.” Recharge Retreats will offer a weekend Yoga Retreat October 19-21 with Adrea Robles of Liberation Yoga.

To find out more about Recharge Retreats or their upcoming events, visit RechargeRetreats.com or call 845.225.5192.

National Yoga Month Celebration Kicks Off September 2012,

Yoga studios, teachers and students are celebrating Yoga Month throughout the country with free classes and events during September. For the third year, Natural Awakenings is a sponsor of National Yoga Month. This grassroots healthy living campaign and national observance, hosts the One Week Free Yoga Card program with more than 1,600 yoga studios offering free classes to new students during September and October. Cards can be downloaded from YogaMonth.org and redeemed at participating studios throughout the United States.

Yoga Month Founder Johannes R. Fisslinger says, “Experience is a powerful teacher, so we decided to give people the opportunity to try yoga for themselves.” Hundreds of community yoga events are registered and searchable in the organization’s online yoga finder. The culminating event for the month-long campaign is The Time for Yoga, a global community practice on September 30. The Yoga Month campaign’s programs facilitate actionable guidance for individuals wanting to better their health through yoga.

Yoga Month is a campaign of The Yoga Health Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization with a mission to promote preventive health care and inspire a healthy lifestyle. In 2011 more than 25,000 cards for free yoga were printed and 650 events were posted on the organization’s website.

For more information and to find local Yoga Month events, visit YogaMonth.org.