Putnam Women’s Way & Men Features Inspirational Speakers

Dana Boulanger, Natural Awakenings co-publisher and owner, is the featured guest speaker at the monthly meeting of Putnam Women’s Way & Men on September 25, 2013, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The meeting will be held at Le Fontane Ristorante in Katonah, NY, where Boulanger will inspire the group with her thoughts and observations on “How to Mind your Own Happiness: Easy ways to find more joy and success daily.”

Putnam Women’s Way & Men was established in 2013. Co-founder Burdette Rocco says the organization was created in an attempt to help people achieve their goals and support each another. “Each month, a special guest dedicates his or her time at a different location to share their outstanding experiences with success and achievement,” says Rocco. “We meet on the last Wednesday of each month to gain knowledge and wisdom about business and health accomplishments, and people of all ages are welcome, but never obligated, to attend.”

The fee for each event is $10 per person, excluding an optional dinner and cash bar. To learn more and attend the September 25 meeting, email putnamwomensway@yahoo.com.

Le Fontane Ristorante is located at 137 Rt. 100 in Katonah, NY.

 

FREE YOGA CLASSES in Westchester & Putnam NY

FREE YOGA CLASSES

During Natural Awakenings Yoga Week

September 12-18, 2011,

in Westchester & Putnam Counties, NY

During Natural Awakenings Yoga Week

An exciting array of yoga studios throughout Westchester and Putnam are opening their doors and allowing students to try yoga for free during Natural Awakenings Yoga Week. Take that first yoga class, experiment with a new style, or find a new favorite teacher from Monday, September 12 to Sunday, September 18.

Enjoy!

Monday, September 12, 2011

Relaxing the Body to Calm the Mind Yoga – 9am. A Vinyasa style class with some restorative and yin influences. Free for new students. The Rose Center, 17 Purdy Ave. Rye. Register: rosecenterny.com.

Align & Strengthen Yoga – 9-10:15am. w/ Lara Azzarito Ward, Director, Lotus Gardens Yoga School. Free for new students. Pre-registration Required: 860.354.6241. Jewish Community Center of Sherman, 9 Rt. 39 North, Sherman, CT.

Multi-level Class for Adults – 9-10:30am. Must pre-register. One free class only, at YogaShine during Yoga Week, for new students. YogaShine, 7-11 Legion Dr. Valhalla. Info: 914.769.8745.

Core Abs Yoga – 9:30am. Free for new students. Westchester Yoga Arts, 82 Center Ave. New Rochelle. Info: 914.632.1101; westchesteryogaarts.com.

Intro to Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – 9:30-11am. Free for new students. Golden Temple Yoga.232 Katonah Ave. Katonah. Register: 914 232 3473. Info: goldentempleyoga.com

Hatha Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. w/Catie. Free for new students. Hudson Valley Health & Tennis Yoga Studio, 100 River St. Hastings on Hudson. Info: 914.478.4400; hudsonvalleytennis.com.

Beginner Yoga – 11:30am. Free for new students. SageYoga @ The Gym, 99 Business Park Dr. Armonk. Pre-register: 914.393.6517. Info: armonkyoga.com.

Hot Power Yoga Level 1 – 5:30pm. Free for new students. 245 Rt. 100, Somers. Info: 914.401.9140; sacredspaceyoga.info.

Beginner/Intermediate Yoga for Teens – 7-8:15pm. Ages 12 $ up. Catherine Riedel leads a this Hatha Yoga class, that relieves stress and improves focus for teens. Free. Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Ave. Ossining. OssiningLibrary.org. Register: 914.941.2416 x 336.

Vinyasa Flow Class – 7:30pm. w/ Phoebe Kelly. Free for new students. YogaWorks, 50 S. Buckhout St. Irvington. Info: 914.591.9642.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Gentle Hatha – 8:45am. Free for new students. 245 Rt. 100, Somers. Info: 914.401.9140; sacredspaceyoga.info.

Vinyasa Flow – 9-10am. w/Caryna Free for new students. Hudson Valley Health & Tennis Yoga Studio, 100 River St. Hastings on Hudson. Info: 914.478.4400; hudsonvalleytennis.com.

Open Level Vinyasa Style Class – 9:30am w/ with Karen. Free for new students. Drop-ins welcome. Be True Yoga, 14 Harwood Court, Suite 326, Scarsdale. 914.723.5900.

Mixed Level Yoga – 9:30am. Free for new students. Westchester Yoga Arts, 82 Center Ave. New Rochelle. Info: 914.632.1101; westchesteryogaarts.com.

Hot Power Yoga Level 1-2 – 11:30am. Free for new students. 245 Rt. 100, Somers. Info: 914.401.9140; sacredspaceyoga.info.

Gentle Beginner Yoga Class – 4:30pm. Free for new students. 979 Route 6/202/22 Brewster. Info: avayoga.com. Preregister: 845.278.2331.

Kundalini Yoga – 7-8:30pm. w/ Siri Chand Kaur. Free for new students. The Yoga Co-op is located at The Garrison Golf Club, 2015 Rt. 9 at Snake Hill Rd. 845.224.9909; garrisonyoga.com.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Core Abs Yoga – 9:30am. Free for new students. Westchester Yoga Arts, 82 Center Ave. New Rochelle. Info: 914.632.1101; westchesteryogaarts.com.

Level 2-3 Yoga – 9:30am. Free for new students. SageYoga @ The Gym, 99 Business Park Dr. Armonk. Pre-register: 914.393.6517. Info: armonkyoga.com.

Vinyasa Flow 1-2 – 9:30-10:45am. w/ Colleen Breeckner. Free for new students. Quest Yoga Arts, 11 Main St. 2nd floor, Mt. Kisco. Info: 914.241.9642; questyogaarts.com.

Power Hour – 12:30-1:30pm. w/ Jane. Free for new students. O2 Living. 792 Rt. 35, Cross River. Info: 914.763.6320; o2living.com.

Vinayasa Flow – 4-5pm. w/Chrissy Free for new students. Hudson Valley Health & Tennis Yoga Studio, 100 River St. Hastings on Hudson. Info: 914.478.4400; hudsonvalleytennis.com.

Gentle Hatha – 4:30pm. Free for new students. 245 Rt. 100, Somers. Info: 914.401.9140; sacredspaceyoga.info.

All Level Yoga – 7-8:30pm. w/ Ellen Forman. Free for new students. The Yoga Co-op is located at The Garrison Golf Club, 2015 Rt. 9 at Snake Hill Rd. Info: 845.224.9909; garrisonyoga.com.

Open Level Flow – 7:30pm. Free for new students. 900 S. Lake Blvd, Mahopac Info: LiberationNY.com; 845.803.8389.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Vinyasa Level 1 – 9:30am. Free for new students. 245 Rt. 100, Somers. Info: 914.401.9140; sacredspaceyoga.info.

All Levels Yoga Class – 9:30-11am. w/ Basil Jones. Free for new students. Basil Yoga, 2 Keeler Lane, North Salem. Info: basilyoga.com.

Viniyoga – 11am. Open class, all levels welcome. Free for new students. Yoga on Lake Rippowam, South Salem. Info: 914.763.2548; rippowamyoga.com.

Hot Power Yoga Level 1-2 – 11:30am. Free for new students. 245 Rt. 100, Somers. Info: 914.401.9140; sacredspaceyoga.info.

Vinyasa Basics – 4:30pm. Free for new students. 900 S. Lake Blvd, Mahopac. Info: LiberationNY.com; 845.803.8389.

Gentle Beginner Yoga Class – 7pm. Free for new students. 979 Route 6/202/22 Brewster. Info: avayoga.com. Preregister: 845.278.2331.

Meditation & Pranayama Class – 7-8:15pm. With Dan Benanav. Free for new students. The Yoga Co-op is located at The Garrison Golf Club, 2015 Rt. 9 at Snake Hill Rd. 845.224.9909; garrisonyoga.com.

Multi-level Class for Adults – 7-8:30pm. Must pre-register. One free class only, at YogaShine during Yoga Week, for new students. YogaShine, 7-11 Legion Dr. Valhalla. Info: 914.769.8745.

Fertility Yoga – 7:30-8:45pm. w/ Beth Gibney-Boulden. All women open to conception are welcome to attend.  Free for new students. Full Circle Family Care, 1241 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains. Register: 914.421.1500 x 0. Info: FullCircleFamilyCare.com.

Friday, September 16, 2011

All levels Yoga – 8am. w/ Cat Guthrie. Free for new students. The Yoga Co-op is located at The Garrison Golf Club, 2015 Rt. 9 at Snake Hill Rd. 845.224.9909; garrisonyoga.com.

Adults with Special Concerns/Seniors, Super Gentle –  9:10-10:10am. Must pre-register. One free class only at YogaShine during Yoga Week, for new students.  YogaShine, 7-11 Legion Dr. Valhalla. Info: 914.769.8745.

Teen Yoga (ages 13 – 18 yrs) – 4:30-5:30pm. Free for new students. Hudson Yoga, 5 Old Post Rd. South, Croton on Hudson. Registration limited, call: 914.319.4010.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Vinyasa Level 1-2 – 9:30am. Free for new students. 245 Rt. 100, Somers. Info: 914.401.9140; sacredspaceyoga.info.

Open Level Vinyassa Class – 10am. Outdoors, bring a mat and water. Free for new students. At PepsiCo Campus located at 700 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase. Pre-Register: Lori 917.209.1783; meet at visitor’s booth.

Weekend Warrior Workout – 10-11:20am. A fun and high energy yoga class that works the entire body and suitable for all levels. Free for new students. The Center. 71A Croton Ave. Ossining. Info: 646.228.4002; e-sensualdance.com.

All Level Yoga – 10:30-11:45am w/ Dyanna Kozloski. Free for new students. The Yoga Co-op is located at The Garrison Golf Club, 2015 Rt. 9 at Snake Hill Rd. 845.224.9909; garrisonyoga.com.

Destress & Renew – 12:15-1:30pm. Free for new students. The Center. 71A Croton Ave. Ossining. Info: 646.228.4002; e-sensualdance.com.

Viniyoga – 12:30pm. Open class, all levels welcome. Free for new students. Yoga on Lake Rippowam, South Salem. Info: 914.763.2548; rippowamyoga.com.

Introduction to Meditation – 1-1:45pm. Drop-ins are welcome. Free for new students. Yoga Shivaya, 15 N. Broadway, 2nd Floor, in Tarrytown. Info: 914.584.1647.

Indigo Kidz Yoga – 2-2:45pm. Free for new students. The Center. 71A Croton Ave. Ossining. Info: 646.228.4002; e-sensualdance.com.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Gentle Healing Yoga – 10-11:10am. Free for new students. The Center. 71A Croton Ave. Ossining. Info: 646.228.4002; e-sensualdance.com.

Yoga Open Level – 10-11:15am. w/ Joelle Van Sickle. Free for new students. The Living Room, 103 Main St., Cold Spring. Info: 845.270.8210; coldspringlivingroom.com.

Alignment Flow – 10:30-11:45am w/ Julian Paik. Free for new students. The Yoga Co-op is located at The Garrison Golf Club, 2015 Rt. 9 at Snake Hill Rd. 845.224.9909; garrisonyoga.com.

Free Mommy & Me Yoga – 11am-12noon. w/ Beth Gibney-Boulden. Babies 6 weeks old up to crawling are welcome, with moms who have been cleared for exercise after birth. Free for new students. Full Circle Family Care, 1241 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains. Register: 914.421.1500 x 0. Info: FullCircleFamilyCare.com.

Level 2 Vinyasa Yoga – 6:30pm. Free for new students. Westchester Yoga Arts, 82 Center Ave. New Rochelle. Info: 914.632.1101; westchesteryogaarts.com.

 

Farmers Markets in Westchester and Putnam NY: Listings & Updates for Summer 2011

Natural Awakenings Farmers Markets Guide

Farmers Markets offer the opportunity to sample many farms in one place, and meet some neighbors in the process.

The John Jay Homestead

A new market opened in Katonah this summer, and it’s creating a buzz in the local food world. The John Jay Homestead Farm Market features local produce and dairy from such small farms as Amba Farm in Bedford Hills, JD Farm in Brewster, I & Me Farm and Cabbage Hill in Mount Kisco, Burren Farm in Katonah, Mobius Fields in Waccabuc, North Winds Farm in Pawling, and Hudson Milk Company in Shrub Oak.

Three area Farmers Markets did not reopen this summer, including the Mount Kisco and Mamaroneck market that was run by Community Markets, and the small Kent/Lake Carmel market at the Lake Carmel Recreation Center Parking lot. The Hartsdale Market, which was operated by Community Markets last year, is now run by Westchester Greenhouse for the town of Greenburgh.

Here’s a list of the many local Farmers Markets that are ripe for picking this summer:

Bedford Corners: Daisy Hill Farm Stand – Fridays and Saturdays, 9am-6pm; Sundays, 10am-4pm. 214 West St. (between Guard Hill & Rt. 172) Bedford Hills. Info: 914.244.1132.

Brewster Farmers Market – 9am-2pm, Wednesdays & Saturdays, through Nov 19. Rain or shine. 208 E. Main St. at the bottom of Peaceable Hill Rd. (the Borden Bridge, Rts 22 & 6).

Bronxville Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm, Saturdays, through Nov. 19. Rain or shine. Balanced variety of vendors with plenty of parking. Stone Place at Paxton Ave. Bronxville. Info: 914.479.2246.

Chappaqua Farmers Market – Saturdays 8:30am-1:30pm. Chappaqua Train Station, downtown Chappaqua. Info: chappaquafarmersmarket.org.

Cold Spring Farmers Market – 8:30am-1:30pm, Saturdays through Oct 29. Butterfield Hospital , Rt. 9D & Paulding Ave., Village of Cold Spring. Info: csfarmmarket.org.

Croton-on-Hudson Farmers Market – 1:30am-6:30pm, Wednesdays, through November 17. Rain or shine. Municipal Lot on Municipal Pl. and Riverside Ave. (Street Address: Across From 1 Municipal Pl.) communitymarkets.biz.

Dobbs Ferry Farmers Market – 10am-4pm, Fridays through Oct. Cedar and Main streets. Info: 914.231.8502; dobbsferry.com.

Hartsdale Farmers Market – 8am-3pm, Saturdays through November 19. Hartsdale Train Station. Info: 914.693.2935; Westchester Greenhouses & Farms.

Hastings Farmers Market – 8:30am-2pm. Saturdays through Nov. 19. 7 Maple Ave. (in the library parking lot, but parking is suggested in the Metro-North commuter lot). 914.478.8068. Hastings-on-Hudson Library Parking Lot 7 Maple Ave. Info: hastingsfarmersmarket.org.

Irvington Farmers Market – 3:30-7:30pm, Wednesdays. at the Main Street School Parking Lot. Irvington. irvingtonfarmersmarket.net

Katonah: John Jay Homestead Farm Market – 9am-1pm, Saturdays through Oct 15 (rain or shine, 400 Jay Street, Katonah. 914.232.5651, Ext. 108, johnjayhomestead.org.

Larchmont Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm, Saturdays, through December 17. Metro North Parking Deck #3 off Chatsworth Ave. (Street Address: Near 1 Railroad Way.) Info: communitymarkets.biz.

New Rochelle Farmers Market – 8:30am-3pm, Fridays. through November 18. Rain or shine. Sponsored by Library Green, Huguenot Street and Lawton Street (Street Address: Near 264 Huguenot Street.) Info: communitymarkets.biz.

Ossining Farmers Market – 8:30am-2pm, Saturday, through December 17. Rain or shine. Corner of Main and Spring Streets, Street Address: Ossining Post Office, 100 Main St. Info: communitymarkets.biz.

Pawling Farmers Market – 9am—12pm, Saturdays through September 24. Charles Coleman Blvd, Pawling. Info: pawlingfarmersmarket.org.

Peekskill Farmers Market – 8:30am-2:30pm, Saturdays. through November 19. Bank Street/ Downtown Peekskill Between Main Street (Rt. 6) and Park Street. Free parking. Info: 914.737.2780; downtownpeekskill.com.

Pelham Farmers Market – 8:30am-2pm, Saturdays, through November 19. Rain or shine. Corner of Harmon Avenue & Fifth Ave. Street Address: Near 85th Ave. Info: communitymarkets.biz.

Pleasantville Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm, Saturdays, through December 17. Rain or shine.  Memorial Plaza off Manville Road. (Street Address: Across From 42 Memorial Plaza.) Info: communitymarkets.biz.

Pound Ridge – 11am-4pm, Sundays, Scotts Corner, Pound Ridge. Info: Joan Silbershir 914.764.0015.

Purchase Farmers Market at PepsiCo – 10am-4pm, Tuesdays, through Nov. 800 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase.

Putnam Valley Farmers Market – 3-7pm, Fridays, through Sept 30. Tompkins Corner Methodist Church 729 Peekskill Hollow Rd.  Info: putnamvalleyresidents.com; 845.528.0066.

Rye Farmers Market – 8:30am-2pm, Sundays, through December 18. Rain or shine.  Parking Lot 2 on Theodore Fremd Ave. Behind the Purchase St. Stores. (Street Address: Directly Behind 73 Purchase St.) Info: communitymarkets.biz.

Scarsdale Farmers Market – 9am-1:30pm, Saturdays, through Nov. 26. Village Hall, lower level parking lot. 100 Post Rd, Scarsdale. Info: 914.456.9744.

Somers at Muscoot Farm – Sundays. 10am-3pm. Muscoot Farm, Route 100, Somers. Info: 914.864.7282.

Tarrytown Farmers Market – 8:30am-1pm, Saturdays, through November 19. Patriot’s Park on Route 9. (Street Address: Adjacent to Tarrytown Public Library, 121 N. Broadway) Info: communitymarkets.biz.

White Plains Farmers Market – 8am-4pm, Wednesdays through Nov. 23. Corner of Court and Quarropas streets. Info: 914.422.1336.

Yonkers St. John’s Church Farmers Market – 8-4pm. Thursdays, through early Nov. Outdoor farmers’ market in the courtyard and a Flea Market in the churchyard. St. John’s Church Courtyard, Getty Square, 1 Hudson St. & S. Broadway, Yonkers. Info: 914.963.3033.

Yorktown Heights at Hilltop Hanover Farm Stand – 10am-4pm, Fridays & Saturdays  through the end of October. 1271 Hilltop Hanover Farm, 1271 Hanover St. Yorktown Heights. Info: 914.962.2368, hilltophanoverfarm.org.

 

 

Support Local Farmers and Enjoy Summer’s Bounty in Westchester & Putnam NY

Natural Awakenings’ guide to buying fresh food straight from the farmer at their farm stands.

A scene from the Daisy Hill Farm Stand in Bedford Corners

When it comes to healthy eating, summer can’t be beat for ripe fruit, juicy berries, and fresh vegetables. Fortunately, Westchester and Putman Counties are full of farms overflowing with delicious and nutritious food, and eating local is as easy as visiting their farm stands and markets. Read on for details about where, when and what to buy this season.

Amawalk Farm

Location: 42 Wood Street in Katonah, NY

U-Pick organic raspberries, fancy summer squash in many varieties, and specialty radishes including Pink Beauty and French Breakfast; Garlic Scapes, a perennial delicacy, and Swiss Chard for the cutting.

Owned and operated by: Marian and Larry Cross

Contact/Info: 914.245.2319; AmawalkFarm.org.

Farm Stand: open July 2 through mid-October on Saturdays from 11am to 6pm (call Hotline at 914.245.2319 for confirmation) and Sundays from 2 to 6pm (if not picked out)

Back to the Garden @ Kitchawan Farm

Location: 716 Kitchawan Road, Ossining, NY

Vegetables and leafy greens like kale, collards and chard, garlic, and cut flowers. Not certified organic, but everything is organically grown.

Owned and operated by: Linsay Cochran.

Contact/Info: 914.941.0096. Check the weekly harvest list on Linsay’s blog: KitchawanFarm.com/backtothegarden

Farm Stand: in a little store called the Stuga from May to November on Tuesdays and Fridays from 2:30 to 6:30pm

Cascade Farm

Location: 124 Harmony Road, Patterson, NY

Cascade is a farm stand, CSA and Farm School with sustainable practices. Features baby goats, lambs, chicken, piglets, vegetables, herbs, honey, maple syrup, and eggs.

Owner/contact info: Margaret 845.878.3258

CascadeFarmSchool.org

Farm Stand: in the main building from July 9 through October on Saturdays from 8am to 12pm

Daisy Hill Farm Stand

Location: 214 West Patent Rd. Bedford Corners, NY

Features organic produce, farm fresh eggs, cut flowers, farm animals, and more.

Owner: Gwenn Brant

Contact: 914.244.1132

Farm Stand summer hours: Thursdays and Fridays from 9am to 6pm; Saturdays from 9am to 5pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard

Location: 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY

The former location of Outhouse Orchards, this new farm is a NOFA member that’s started the process of becoming certified organic. Vegetables and vegetable plants, local honey, fruits, maple syrup, and Green Mountain Coffee are available.

Contact/Info: Robert Covino, HarvestMoonFarmandOrchard.com; 914.485.1210.

Farm Stand: Open seven days a week from 8am to 6pm

Hemlock Hill Farm

Location: 500 Croton Avenue,

Cortlandt Manor, NY

The lambs, goats, and cattle continually graze on more than 100 acres of pasture, and the chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys are also free-range. Pigs, rabbits, Guinea fowl, pheasants, and quail may also be spotted at Hemlock Hill. The animals are never given hormones or antibiotics and, when they’re not grazing outside, they’re eating all natural grains.

Owned and operated by: The De Maria Family

Contact/Info: 914.737.2810; HemlockHillFarm.com

Farm Store: Open 7 days a week; Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5:30pm and Sunday from 9am to 2pm

Hilltop Hanover Farms

Location: 1271 Hanover Street, Yorktown Heights, NY

All produce is grown on the farm without the use of pesticides, synthesized fertilizers or herbicides.

Contact/Info: 914.962.2368 ext. 2; HilltopHanoverFarm.org

Farm Stand: open Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm; U-Pick on Saturdays from 10am to 4pm

The Meadows Farm

Location: 329 Underhill Avenue, Yorktown Heights, NY

Features 20 acres of organic crops, including many vegetables, watermelon and herbs. Corn is picked daily—sometime twice—for the sweetest, freshest corn.

Owned and operated by:  Richard Woodard

Contact/Info: 914.962.4306; MeadowsFarmMarket.com

Farm Stand: open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Sunday from 9am to 5pm

Ryder Farm

Location: 400 Starr Ridge Road, Brewster, NY

Certified Organic Grower and CSA producing flowers, herbs, and vegetables for wholesale, retail and custom orders. Delivers on Wednesdays to Westchester and Fairfield Counties.

Owned and operated by: Betsey Ryder

Contact/Info: 854.279.4161; RyderFarmOrganic.com

Farm Stand: Roadside Farm Stand is open daily

Seedswell Vegetable Farm at Tanrackin Farm

Location: 284 Guard Hill Road, Mount Kisco, NY

This new farm grows vegetables without the use of synthetic herbicides or pesticides, and uses cover cropping, crop rotation and compost to build soil life. They offer fresh vegetables, herbs, cut flowers and eggs.

Owned and operated by: Ashley Frost

Info: Seedswell.com

Farm Stand: open June to December on Tuesdays from 9am to 12pm, Thursdays from 3 to 6pm and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm; look for signs on where to park.

Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture

Location: 630 Bedford Road,

Pocantico Hills, NY

The farm stand is open three days a week, but Stone Barns Center is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm, year-round.

Salad mixes, vegetables, strawberries, herbs, lamb and pork, whole chickens, turkey cuts, and eggs are available for purchase.

Contact/Info: 914.366.6200; StoneBarnsCenter.org

Farm Stand: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from1 to 4pm through mid-November

Stuart’s Farm

Location: 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY

The county’s oldest working farm features 200 acres of apple orchards, pumpkin fields and vegetable crops. Some organic produce is available.

Owned and operated by: the Stuart Family

Contact/Info: 914.245.2784; StuartsFarm.com

Farm Stand: Opens the first weekend in August with daily hours from 9am to 6pm

Sundial Farm

Location: 1311 Kitchawan Rd., Ossining, NY

Organic vegetables like kale, peas, Swiss chard, and squash are available now. Heirloom tomatoes such as Brandywine, eggplant and peppers will follow. Also available are annuals, perennials, bulbs, grasses, herbs, roses, flowering shrubs, and fruit trees, as well as local honey, maple syrup, preserves, pickles, chutneys and biscotti. Visitors are welcome to walk through the home gardens for inspiration and methods for outwitting deer.

Owned and operated by: Penny and Bill Hawkey

Contact/Info: 914.391.5965; SundialFarm.us.

Farm Stand: Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Three Feathers Farm

Location: 371 Smith Ridge Road, South Salem, NY

Grass fed beef is available, and a huge selection of vegetables, fruits, flowers, eggs, and maple syrup. Coming soon: chicken meat. Not all products are organic certified, but everything is pesticide-free, naturally grown, grass fed/pastured, and either raised, grown or made by them.

Owned and operated by: Jeanine and Joe Haberny

Contact: 914.533.6529

Farm Stand: open daily from 8am to 5pm

Hammond Museum Hosts World Tai Chi Day Festival Saturday, April 30, 2011

Lion Dance Hammond Museum

By Sifu David Cunniff

Tai Chi and Chi Kung (also known as Qigong) are ancient systems of exercise so beneficial to the mind and body that they are considered integral parts of Traditional Chinese Medicine. They feature slow, controlled breathing combined with gentle stretching movements that together harmonize the body, mind and spirit, producing a sense of well-being. Tai Chi has been proven to reduce stress and alleviate many ailments and injuries, while promoting balance and healing.

The public is invited to experience the powerful benefits of both ancient exercises on April 30, when the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden in North Salem, New York hosts the 11th annual World Tai Chi and Qigong Day (WTCQD) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WTCQD, officially recognized by the World Health Organization and The United Nations, is celebrated in 65 nations, educating millions worldwide about the medical, wellness and mental health benefits of practicing Tai Chi and Chi Kung. The event begins at 10 a.m. in the earliest time zones and continues around the world as Tai Chi is performed at 10 a.m. in each time zone throughout the day.

In North Salem, Master Phil Sant and his students from the Hall of the Gathering Dragons will start the WTCQD festival at 9:15 a.m. with a Chi Kung exercise workshop. There will be a performance of the Tai Chi form at 10 a.m., followed by a display of internal and external martial arts forms and weapons demonstrations.

Also appearing at the festival will be the abbot of the Chuang Yen Monastery in Carmel, New York, discussing the health benefits of meditation. There will also be a number of other special guests and artists, a traditional lion dance and Chinese ribbon dance, a Chinese musical presentation, and a performance featuring a collection of Tibetan singing bowls. For children, there will be a craft area where visitors can make dragon puppets and learn origami, Kirigami, paper folding, and paper cutting.

Top Five Reasons for Practicing Tai Chi & Chi Kung:

Reason 5: It increases flexibility. By performing the repetitive movements each day, you keep your muscles limber and stretched. One of the keys to staying young is keeping the cells from constricting, and the daily regimen of a Tai Chi workout guards against this.

Reason 4: It boosts lung capacity. The slow, controlled breathing exercises ensure that the lungs get the exercise and stretching they need to continue to work properly.

Reason 3: It enhances circulation of blood and chi. Slow, controlled breathing also produces chi, your energy force, which is essential to increasing oxygen in the blood. The cleaner your blood is, the healthier your entire body will be. Chi Kung is like Roto-Rooter for your bloodstream—it clears the toxins out.

Reason 2: It improves balance. The graceful, flowing movements, combined with the focus of training, promotes a more conscious and attentive mindset, which creates better awareness and improved balance.

Reason 1: It is fun! Tai Chi form is like dancing. It’s fun to do, it can be done anywhere and any time, and it requires only you.

The Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden is located at 28 Deveau Rd., North Salem. Contact the museum at 914.669.5033, or visit it online at HammondMuseum.org. For more information about this event, contact Master Phil Sant of the Hall of the Gathering Dragons, Brewster, NY, at 845.278.6449; contact Sifu David Cunniff of In Balance Tai Chi Studio, Katonah, NY, at DaveCunniff@comcast.net or 914.262.1478; or visit WorldTaiChiDay.org.

Diana Cooper to Visit Awakenings in April, 2011

In April, spiritual author and internationally known angel expert Diana Cooper will be at Awakenings in Katonah, NY, to lead an evening seminar based on her book “Keys to the Universe” and a day-long lecture based on her book “2012 and Beyond.”

During the CD/book signing and seminar, set for April 8 from 7 to 9 p.m., Cooper will share her understanding of the secrets of birds and angels, time and speed, sacred geometry and more. Attendees will practice some of the sounds that activate these keys. On April 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Cooper will discuss the significance of the year 2012 and the spiritual opportunities due to occur during that year. She will also explain what is expected to happen worldwide to the climate as well as economically, politically and spiritually during the following 20 years of transition.

“Diana will connect attendees with forces that can help prepare them for the higher energies coming in,” says Sherrill Zucker of Awakenings. “She can help them maximize their potential and flourish through 2012 and beyond.” Because space is limited, pre-paid registration is required for both events.

Awakenings, a metaphysical book and gift shop, is located at 215 Katonah Ave. To register or for more info, contact Zucker at 914.232.0382 or Sher0703@gmail.com. Visit Awakenings online at AwakeningsKatonah.com.

Natural Awakenings’ Last-Minute Gift Guide

Still looking for a special present for that hard-to-please person on your list? Our gift guide can help. We looked in local shops and found plenty of unique, easily available gifts that are also good for the body, the spirit or the planet. So shop on. This holiday season you can feel extra good about giving.

Tibetan Spinning Ring – Sterling silver ring inscribed with the protection prayer: “Om Ma Ni Padme Hum.” It’s said that every spin of the ring sends this mantra to the heavens! $24

To buy: Available at Opal Moon Wellness Center & Unique Gifts, 2037 Albany Post Rd. (Rte. 9A), Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520

 

Glass Water Bottle – Finally, a safe water bottle with no funky metallic taste! Lifefactory’s 16- and 22-ounce glass bottles are sturdy, with screw-top lids and protective silicone sleeves. They’re easy to clean, work well with ionized water—and are stylish, too, coming in a variety of colors. $18.95-20.95

To buy: Visit BonniesHerbals.com or call 914.923.4346

 

Spa Treatment at o2 living – What woman over 30 wouldn’t love a deluxe facial treatment? The Opulence Brightening 60-minute facial at o2 living evens and brightens skin tone on the face and neck by using hyperbaric oxygen technology that delivers a high dose of vitamin C and skin-brightening botanicals for a lasting, luminous glow. Gift card $180 per treatment

To buy: Available at o2 living, 6 Yellow Monkey Village, Cross River, NY 10518, or order by phone at 914.763.6320 or online at o2living.com

 

Dinner for Two at Flying Pig on Lexington – Give the gift of local food at this casual farm-to-table restaurant. It’s the ideal location for unwinding after the holidays with a friend. Just hope they take you! Gift card, various denominations

To buy: Available at Flying Pig on Lexington, 251 Lexington Ave., Mt. Kisco, NY 10549, or order by phone at 914.666.7445. Info:  FlyingPigOnLex.com

 

“Peace on Earth” Massage – Both relaxing and therapeutic, massage is the perfect gift for the nurturers on your list—you know, the ones who are there for everyone else but don’t have time for themselves. This 75-minute session incorporates a special, calming aromatherapy blend and hot stones to melt away stress and winter chills. Gift card $150

To buy: Available at Organic Day Spa, 434 White Plains Rd., Eastchester, NY 10709, or order by phone at 914.652.7111. Gift cards can be e-mailed or mailed out same day.

 

Publisher’s Book Recommendation

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path – Author Charlotte Sophia Kasl applies Buddhist wisdom to modern love and life, with a playful twist. Also by Kasl:  If the Buddha Got Stuck: A Handbook for Change on a Spiritual Path and If the Buddha Married: Creating Enduring Relationships on a Spiritual Path. Paperback $14

To buy: Available at Awakenings, 215 Katonah Ave., Katonah, NY 10536.

Info: AwakeningsKatonah.com.

 

Pilates Gift Card – Give the gift of fitness. You know that Pilates creates a longer, leaner, sexier body, but you may not know that it also increases flexibility and joint mobility, improves posture, balance and coordination, and boosts bone density. Gift card $90 per private session; $25 per drop-in class

To buy: Available at Premier Pilates & Yoga, 200 North Ave., Ste. 6, New Rochelle, NY 10801, or order by phone at 914.235.1250

 

 

Bennington Candles – The perfect holiday gift for your honey or your hostess, Bennington’s all-natural aromatherapy candles come in three sizes and a variety of scents, including Romance, Relaxation, Prosperity, the natural elements Earth, Air, Fire and Water, and many more. $1.99-16.95

To buy: Available at Awakenings, 215 Katonah Avenue, Katonah, NY 10536. While you’re there, browse their New Age book section for some inspiration for yourself! Info: 914.232.0382

 

 

Crystal Globe – Illuminated, hand-blown crystal sphere. When non-illuminated, it shows an environmental or physical map; magically, when illuminated, it shows country boundaries. Features vary by style. Crystal globes $300-600; smaller (14-16 inch), acrylic globes $150-600

To buy: Available at Earth Lore, 2 Fairway Dr., Pawling, NY 12564. It’s worth the drive just to see these beautiful illuminated globes in Earth Lore’s incredible holiday window displays. Extended holiday hours, call for info: 845.855.8899

 

Getting Katonah “In Balance” with Tai Chi

David Cunniff of In Balance Tai Chi

Tai Chi is growing in popularity every day, and the In Balance Tai Chi Studio in Katonah is celebrating two years of spreading the healthy word. Those looking for a way to control daily stress and get in shape without strenuous exercise should consider the ancient Chinese arts of Tai Chi and Chi Kung, which combine controlled breathing with gentle stretching movements. Tai Chi reduces stress, alleviates ailments and injuries, and creates a calming environment while promoting balance and healing.

At In Balance, small personal classes and a comfortable atmosphere create a positive approach to exercising and learning, and newcomers can attend one Tuesday 7:30 p.m. beginners’ class for free.

To register for a free beginner’s class or receive information on class schedules, contact Sifu David Cunniff at 914.262.1478 or inbalanceconcepts@comcast.net, or visit inbalanceconcepts.com. In Balance Tai Chi Studio is located at 190 Goldens Bridge Court, Suite 6A in Katonah, NY.

Workshops Deconstruct Self-Destructive Patterns in Katonah, NY

Renee Simon & Dr. Stacy Raymond, PhD

Dietician and nutritionist Renee Simon and psychologist Dr. Stacy Raymond, PhD, will lead a four-week workshop in Katonah, NY, and Ridgefield, CT, exploring addictive behaviors and other self-destructive patterns.

The program, based on Geneen Roth’s Women Food and God: An Unexpected Path to Almost Everything, uses food as a metaphor for any self-defeating habits, says Simon. Attendees don’t have to have an eating disorder to benefit, and the theme does not denote any specific religious affiliation or belief. “The program will be a transformative experience to redefine one’s relationship with food, learn to love self and body more fully, and open more deeply to the soul’s true essence,” she says. The workshop explains why “quick fixes,” which don’t resolve deeper issues, can’t permanently solve problems.

Simon is board certified, with 11 years’ experience helping women reach and maintain their ideal body weight through fully integrated health and lifestyle programs. Raymond, a licensed clinical psychologist for 15 years, specializes in eating issues and problem resolution and addresses the link between spirituality and self-esteem. Both women help their clients identify and resolve the toxic beliefs and emotions that often underlie health concerns.

The workshop will run on consecutive Tuesdays from January 11 to February 1, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at 15 Parkway, Katonah; and on consecutive Wednesdays from January 12 to February 2, noon-1:30 p.m., at 38B Grove St., Ridgefield. The program costs $125, or $99 through December 31. Space is limited. To register or for more information, call Renee Simon at 914.763.9107 or visit TotalWellnessNutrition.com or CTCenterForChange.com.

Personal Trainer, Jong Hon, Helps Clients Unleash the Power Within in Bedford Hills & Katonah, NY

Holistic Fitness Comes from Within

Jong Hon says his approach to fitness stems from two maxims: “Everyone can be strong,” and “Power comes from within.” So at LifeForce Holistic Fitness, Jong turns conventional wisdom on its head, teaching clients from ages 15 to 80 how to get fit “from the inside out.”

A fifth-degree black belt, Jong has trained in the martial arts for more than 30 years. “I understand not only how the body works, but how to make it work more efficiently and effectively,” he says. The key, he says, is the body’s core—or chi—which can be strengthened through specialized breathing and an emphasis on form, intensity and posture. For clients like Dr. Ross Levy, the results have been “astonishing.” “Jong has been working with me for over a year now, and he continues to impress with his approach to fitness,” Levy says. “He not only tones the body, but he trains the mind as well.”

Jong’s goal is simple: “I want to help my clients be healthier than they’ve ever been.” They can do so by “freeing the mind, toning the body, and unleashing the power they each have within themselves.”

LifeForce Holistic Fitness is located in Bedford Hills, NY. For more information, call 914.400.8942 or visit lifeforceholisticfitness.com. Jong may be retained as a personal or group trainer; he also leads several Chi Fusion classes at Katonah Yoga Center in Bedford Hills and teaches self-defense for adults and teens.