X volving
April 2015 ~ Vol.VII, Issue 2
in Kansas City
A Guide for Conscious Living How Diet Can Affect Environmental Change Fifty Shades of Healthy Loving Environmental Activism Overcoming the Veggie Challenge EVOLVING‌ A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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Publisher’s Letter... Photo by Penny Thieme
Dear Friend,
Spring is here and the lush greenery returns from its winter slumber. Spring is a revitalizing, creative time and a chance to start anew. So to celebrate the renewal of Mother Earth, we offer our annual “Green” issue focusing on ways to lessen our impact on this great Mother. Environmentalism is a broad topic, so we asked some Facebook friends what changes they make to create a difference. Everything from using recyclable shopping bags, rechargeable batteries and more was suggested. You can read these interesting tidbits on page 15. For myself, one small step I’ve taken is moving into a “tiny” home. It’s actually a house in the country that was converted into three small apartments. The transition, even though I always tended toward minimalism, was still an adjustment. I gave away, sold and recycled many of my possessions and downscaled to a manageable existence. While I’m still adjusting to the smaller space, it is also a comfort when I return from my rail travels to this small, welcoming space. We can all garden, containers count too, and shop locally — either through visiting the Farmers’ Markets or joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) where you, in a sense, buy a share of a farmer’s produce for a season. For a very reasonable fee, you get fresh, justpicked produce all season. The CSA I’ve enjoyed in the past brought strawberries, greens and sometimes special treats like herbs or sundried tomatoes in the spring; then, as the heat and growing season increases, a bounty of vegetables so fresh you can taste the difference: tomatoes, squashes, cantaloupes and so much more are picked up each week. If you’re not able to frequent the various markets throughout town, I highly recommend trying a CSA. You can find a directory of local, organic and free-range food producers here: http://www.kcfoodcircle.org/ docs/KCFC-Directory.pdf. Although it’s a global issue, massive in proportions, we can all start choosing to make small changes that can eventually have a large impact. Happy Spring!
How Diet Can Affect Environmental Change 12
Nature Consciousness 13
Absorbing April: Simple, natural renewal for a busy season
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Jill Dutton Stay Connected all Month! *Read the magazine online: www.EvolvingMagazine.com *Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/EvolvingMagazine *Follow us on Twitter: @EvolvingMag
Overcoming the Veggie Challenge Recipe from Trevo Mare 11
Departments
Publisher Jill Dutton 913-944-1298 jill@evolvingmagazine.com Editorial Assistants Aaron Lerner Judy Kirkpatrick
Contributors Sami Aaron, Bethany Klug, Jude LaClaire, Natalya Lowther, Aluna Michaels, Nancy Oglesby, Bonnie Rabicoff, Nancy Russell, Suzette Scholtes Advertising
Print Layout/Design Alea Smith Ad Design Susan Prout Web Design Jann Baker
News
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Wisdom Within
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Journey to Wholeness
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Holistic Health
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Revelations
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Food First!
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In the Kitchen w/ Bonnie
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Horoscope
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ON THE COVER: Karen E. Cowdry
Connie “Crash” Humiston
Cover artist, Bhasweti Gewhas, Ph.D., is a certified hypnotherapist, past life therapist, Reiki master, EFT practitioner, Theta healer, Feng Shui consultant, ordained minister and life coach. Email Bhaweti at bhasweti@stressfreetools.com.
EVOLVING© 2015 all rights reserved. The opinions expressed are those of the authors. The articles in EVOLVING are not meant to represent any form of medical or psychiatric care. No portion of the publication may be reproduced without express written permission from the publisher. Distribution by PDS, Inc.
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News
Love the Earth Month The Green Team at Unity Church of Overland Park will honor Earth day commencing with a "Clean the Stream Day" on Saturday, April 11, 8 a.m. till noon. We'll meet at Shannon Park (Grant Drive at 115 Ter.). Please wear long sleeves and pants, bring water, sunscreen and a stick for picking up trash. Bags and gloves will be provided. We'll make new friends in the process and know that we've helped to make a better, cleaner world. For more information, contact Jim Twigg, Overland Park Special Projects Coordinator, 913.895.6273. On Tuesday April 14, "Wisdom to Survive," a new movie which explores the threat of climate change and what we can do to continue to thrive will be shown at Unity Church of Overland Park, 103rd and Antioch. Will we have the wisdom to survive by opening ourselves to the beauty that surrounds us and find ways to ensure that it continues? Together, we will learn of possible answers to these questions and regain some hope and faith in the future of planet Earth. "Wisdom to Survive" will be shown at 7 p.m. downstairs in Harmony Hall. Love offering accepted.
On Tuesday April 21, Angie Babbit, Communications Coordinator with "Monarch Watch" at the University of Kansas will present, "Creating Monarch Habitat in Your Garden." Monarch butterflies have experienced historic population declines over the last two decades. Angie will explore the reasons for this decline and discuss how anyone - from the beginning gardener to the master naturalist -- can help boost the monarch population by planting Milkweed alongside nectar sources. Milkweed is the sole food of developing larvae. Presentation is at 7 p.m. at Unity Church of Overland Park, downstairs in Harmony Hall.
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Cura Integrative Health Care open in Overland Park Dr. Jill M. Strom Gulledge DC, announces the opening of Cura Integrative Health Care in Overland Park. Cura is a clinic that incorporates chiropractic, acupuncture, functional medicine and mental health, as well as various other healing modalities. Their practitioners offer highly specialized therapy tailored to their clients individual needs in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. While Cura is open to all individuals, the chiropractors and physical therapists are specialized in perinatal and pediatric care and are aligned with hOMe Holistic, a yoga studio specifically designed for expectant mothers. Together these two clinics assist families through fertility, pregnancy, post partum and pediatric care. Mothers and families have a circle of support both with the practitioners and the community that is created. Cura incorporates a number of healing modalities, including but not limited to: Chiropractic Acupuncture Functional Medicine Physical Therapy Myofascial Release CranioSacral Therapy Biofeedback PsychoTherapy HypnoTherpay Yoga Pilates Akashic Record Readings Shammanic Drum Medicine The purpose of the integrated model is to blend eastern and western tradition to cover all dimensions of healing. Cura in Latin means healing or restoring to health the mind, body, and spirit. Cura recognizes the emotional and spiritual components of healing and provides sacred space for the patients’ personal release. Our Practitioners are incredibly well versed, compassionate, and with open arms are ready to serve. They recognize their own healing and thus walk the journey with their patients. Cura Integrative Health Care 7000 W 121st Street Suite 100 Leawood, KS 66209 913.499.7053
News
Unity Village Hotel and Conference Center Leads the Way in Green Operations
promoting environmental stewardship. Unity Village offers hundreds of wooded acres to explore—making one feel far from civilization—yet is located just 15 miles from downtown Kansas City, Missouri. A nine-hole golf course, 24-hour fitness center, spa services, and bookstore/coffee shop are also available to visitors. The Unity Village Hotel and Conference Center is taking a big step forward while leaving as small a footprint as possible on our planet. Come experience this hidden gem that’s close to home (nestled just off 350 Highway and I-470 at 1901 NW Blue Parkway).
Paired Projects Show Opens
Unity Village, Missouri, home to Unity World Headquarters, is a pioneering member of the “green” movement. Unity Village’s 1,500-plus acres have been classified as a nature preserve by the Missouri Department of Conservation. The township is also home to the Midwest’s first LEED-certified hotel. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a building-rating system providing a framework for identifying and implementing practical green solutions. Built in 2007, the Unity Village Hotel and Conference Center is designed to lower operating costs, reduce landfill waste, conserve energy and water, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Here are five ways the hotel is “green”: Energy: By using a ground-source heat pump, the hotel’s heating and cooling system uses 50 percent less energy than conventional systems. Water: The latest in high-efficiency plumbing fixtures reduce water consumption by 40 percent. Materials: More than 50 percent of materials used to construct the hotel are recyclable. Air: An Energy Recovery Unit monitors indoor air quality, replacing stale air with fresh outdoor air. Environment: Rainwater from the roof and sidewalks is channeled into strategically placed bioswales (vegetation). The plants help filter contaminants, which returns more pure water to the natural watershed. With all the modern amenities—spacious rooms, luxurious bedding, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi access—the hotel provides guests with a quiet, relaxing experience while also
Main Street Gallery at Anton’s on Main is proud to present “Paired Projections” by R. Scott Anderson. Show consists of selected digital works by Anderson, paired with those works projected on to human subjects. Show opens April 3, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. and remains hanging through April. Anderson, most commonly noted for his photographic works with people, in recent years began to explore multiple mediums including the digital art that is featured in this show. This is actually his first showing of both
his digital art and projections of that art on to human subjects. Anderson states, “As I was painting I began to wonder what my art might look like if it were wrapped around a person. I didn’t know of any way to accomplish that other than by body painting. Suddenly it occurred to me that it might be possible to use a digital projector to accomplish that vision. I didn’t own a projector, so, I threw the idea out to my Facebook friends. I got an immediate response from an old classmate stating that I could use the projector from his business to try out my idea, because he believed in my art. Experimentation over the next two years resulted in the images of this show and sparked even greater creativity in my digital work.” Anderson intends future shows of just his digital work. There will also be a full showing of all his art mediums projected on to human forms. EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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Wisdom Within
Have You Won a PLOM Award?
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y friend Mary Kay worked at work through it or go to meditation to heal it. Boeing in Wichita as a Guess where I was stuck? Self-pity! I ran programmer, later serving as around a few weeks feeling sorry for myself. Project Manager. They Grief or sadness is not ego, yet it’s good to programmed parts for the aircraft, working “sit” with complex emotions to reveal what is with engineers to tweak designs and build going on inside. new parts. The employees loved to be on her “How human of me to worry or fret,” team with her sense of Judith Hanson Lasater, humor and her vision and “When we feel the drama of yoga master, teaches. clarity. She arrived at 5:30 “You are human and you a.m. for quiet time, hours life — and we will, as no one are vulnerable. Be easy on before thousands of yourself as best you can,” is exempt, be really tender she said. others arrived, working together like bees in a Plus. the ego loves with self and find ways to denial. You’ve heard the hive. She made a big sign with the letters P L O M, joke: “Denial is not heal and ease the pain.” old and every so often placed just a river in Egypt!” My it on a team member’s anecdote was forgiveness: computer when they to forgive myself, to complained or griped too much. forgive situations I had no control over and “What does this mean?” they would ask. to forgive someone whose words had hurt “It’s the PLOM Award…. Poor little ol’ me,” me. Like cobwebs on the ceiling, some times Mary Kay said. “Ready to quit feeling sorry we need to find the broom and clean things for yourself and get back to work?” up. In January 2015 my column listed ways we Let’s hold compassion for many of you stay clean and clear of negative ego. When I who found the courage to heal the hurt from get into the mud of my ego, I call a friend to the death of loved ones, betrayals, break-ups,
etc. When we feel the drama of life — and we will, as no one is exempt, be really tender with self and find ways to heal and ease the pain. Yoga, acupuncture, tapping or EFT, massage, talk therapy and journaling, all allow healing. I share the following with my yoga students: “Psychic pain is just as wounding as physical pain. You need six to eight weeks to heal a broken bone. You need that much time and more to heal emotional wounds.” Last, when you are devoted to your spirit and soul, you cast a big umbrella. When I lose this umbrella is when my ball bounces out of court. Some folks look through the lens of life and see the bad or wrong while others look for the good in self and others. Looking for the ease and light brings joy and fun to life. Now a quarter into 2015, I am inviting you to continue to give, care, share, respect, love, forgive, trust and feel the gratitude. Set your boundaries around family, colleagues and mates. So when it gets a little heavy, and it will, maybe make your own PLOM Award for your desk and have a good laugh at yourself.
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Suzette Scholtes’ non-fiction writing won the prestigious “Writers Digest” award. Her passions are writing and yoga and she feels one needs a sense of humor for both. She founded The Yoga School of Therapeutics where she manages one of the regions prestige teacher training programs. 10400 W. 103rd Street, Overland Park. www.theyogastudio.com news@theyogastudio.com 9l3 492-9594.
Journey to Wholeness
Fifty Shades of Healthy Loving
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he book Fifty Shades of Grey has sold over 100 million copies. Trailers for the movie adaption of the first book has been viewed 250 million times. At this time the movie is on track to earn $500 million and has been the number one film three weeks in a row. What is the story that is attracting so much attention? Anastasia, a middle-class senior in college meets 27-year-old multi-millionaire CEO. They fall in love. Their romance is full of drama and passion and they end up living the conventional American fantasy of love, marriage and a kid. Their sexual relationship is anything but ordinary. Christian is obsessed with BDSM (bondage, discipline/dominance, submission/sadism and masochism). Though they profess love, Ana doesn’t want to be submissive, and Christian is turned on by violent sex.
This film is troubling to many groups of people, including experienced BSDM practitioners who emphasize there are healthy, ethical ways to consensually combine sex and pain. It requires self-knowledge, communication skills and emotional maturity to make the sex safe and mutually gratifying. Sexual abuse survivor Robert Hoatson shared in the National Catholic Reporter, “I am hoping psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and other mental health professionals will view this movie and weigh in on its psycho-social and psycho-sexual implications. The ‘toys’ that Christian possessed never brought him peace, security or satisfaction. They exacerbated his profound loneliness, a loneliness that can be traced back to his childhood when an adult’s sexual abuse isolated him from the rest of humanity and made him feel shame and guilt.” A study at Michigan State University published in the Journal of Women’s Health, found that young adult women (650 subjects ages 18-24) who read Fifty Shades of Grey were more likely than nonreaders to exhibit troubling behaviors. In that group, 25 percent more likely to have a partner who yelled or
swore at them, 34 percent more likely to have a partner who demonstrated stalking tendencies and 75 percent were more likely to have used diet aids or fasted for more than 24 hours. Those who read all three books were 65 percent more likely to binge drink than nonreaders. Dr. Bonomie tells us that the behaviors assessed in the study are risk factors for being in a violent relationship. This is also a troubling fantasy in American culture where one in five women will be raped in their lifetime. According to the Rape Abuse & Incest National Network, 44 percent of rape victims are under the age of 18, and 80 percent are under 30. These vulnerable populations are big fans of Fifty Shades of Grey. The solution is for parents, educators and others to engage kids in constructive conversations about sexuality, body image and gender-role expectations as early as elementary school. Prevention programs can focus on relationship skills training and gender role examination. Healthy love includes respect, safety, security and compassion along with passion and excitement. Submission with no rules of safety or acknowledged equality is unhealthy and can be abusive. The biggest issues for sexual abuse survivors are broken trust, boundary violation, being powerless and being objectified sexually. These lead to the sense of guilt, shame and worthlessness. Deep, true and healthy love offers safety, security, respect, compassion and passion based on communication and equality, not what Anastasia experiences in Fifty Shades of Grey. Perhaps this is a cautionary tale that sends us back to the basics of real love and great sex in an atmosphere including the qualities of healthy love.
Jude LaClaire, Ph.D., LCPC, is a counselor, educator and author. For counseling appointments, seminars, training, speaking engagements or information on Neurobehavioral Programs or Imago Couple therapy call 913-322-5622. For more information about Jude LaClaire or the Kansas City Holistic Centre go to www.kcholistic.com jude@kcholistic.com. EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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Holistic Health
Spring Cleaning for Body, Mind and Spirit
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pringtime is here! It is time for Spring cleaning, decluttering and new beginnings. As you begin, remember to write down goals and intentions, including a time line with measurable, realistic goals. It is rewarding to set goals with the change of seasons and be able to check them off a list for a sense of completion. After hibernating during the winter and sometimes getting off track with my optimal health goals, it is time to regroup. On the path to optimal wellness, several aspects of our life are important. For our minds and bodies to function well, it is imperative to allow ourselves refreshing sleep, healthy foods, regular exercise and stress management. This all seems a little easier for me in the spring, especially when the sun is shining more and the birds are singing and green appears! Let’s begin by assessing our physical bodies. The physical environment plays a crucial role, specifically the quality of the water and food we ingest and the air we breathe. Pollutants abound. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: 1)More than 4 billion pounds of chemicals were released into the ground in 2000, threatening our natural ground water sources. 2) Nearly 2 billion pounds of air emissions were pumped into the atmosphere. 3)Several thousand food additives are intentionally added to our food supply and thousands more slip into our food supply unintentionally during harvesting, processing, or packaging. 4) Overall, the average American consumes about 124 pounds of food additives a year! In addition, exposure to toxins is increased by eating processed foods and fat, drinking or bathing in tap water, consuming excessive caffeine and/or alcohol, using tobacco, taking medications for long durations, inadequate exercise, liver or kidney problems and occupational exposure. So what can you do to improve your health and minimize these exposures? Whatever you think about detoxifying your body, both critics and proponents agree on one thing: The best way to reduce the level of chemicals/toxins in your body is to bar their entrance.
To reduce your exposure: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
Don’t smoke and avoid secondary smoke. Eat as much organic food as possible. Use water filters in your refrigerator, sink and shower. Use natural cosmetics, deodorants, and hair sprays. Use nontoxic bug repellents. Substitute chemical-laden, scented household cleaners and detergents for all-natural ones. 7) Limit your use of paint, varnish and wax. 8) Use air purifiers. 9) Avoid alcohol and caffeine. 10) Don’t buy products presoaked in formaldehyde such as particleboard, plywood, and permanent-press fabrics.
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Assist your system to release and eliminate toxins: 1) 2) 3) 4)
5) 6) 7)
Exercise regularly at least 30 minutes 3 times a week. Drink plenty of water daily; divide your weight in half and that is how many ounces required per day. Eat cleansing vegetables and herbs based on your blood type. Participate in a 10 day or 28 day nutritional program that combines low allergenic, organic foods with a source of protein and nutrients known to enhance the body’s detoxification capacity. Far-Infrared Sauna treatments. Enroll in a Juice Fast Retreat. Make an appointment with your health care provider to discuss an individualized approach to rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit.
Cleansing can also positively impact your mental, emotional and spiritual well being. Detoxification of the body can lead to better sleep and relaxation, decrease in aches and pains, reduce allergy symptoms, aid weight loss and improve energy and overall health. Other activities to positively impact these areas include: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10)
Journal your feelings. Meditation. Prayer and reflection time daily. Relaxation breathing. Individual or couples retreats. Reading inspirational material. Gardening. Being in nature. Being with your pets. Connecting with a friend or loved one. Happy Spring time!
Nancy Russell, M.D. has been a holistic Internal Medicine physician in the Kansas City northland for over 30 years at 5140 N. Antioch Road in Kansas City, MO. Her phone number is 816-453-5545 and website is www.nancyrussellmd.com where you can get more information. Dr. Russell is board certified in holistic medicine and is a member of the American Holistic Medical Association and a prior board member.
Revelations
If Life is a School, How are your Grades?
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like the idea of seeing life as a great big school for everyone on the planet. That perspective leads me to believe one of the reasons we’re here is to get an education. After further contemplation it opens up all sorts of questions, “Why are we sometimes students, and other times teachers (often unknowingly)?” And how about, “Which coursework is optional and which is mandatory?” “Being Human 101” must be a core required class… along with death, taxes and getting your buttons pushed. Which ones are optional? How about obsession, laughter, trust, love, friendship, maudlin guilt, needlepoint, faith, curiosity, resentment and emotional awareness among many others. In fact, that list is nearly unlimited with a little imagination. Given that, plus the axiom, “We become good at the things we practice most often,” it makes a lot of sense to choose your course of study intentionally. Otherwise you’re likely to find yourself eating a large regret sandwich when you look back over your life. What will you want your transcript to say about your life? Choose wisely and you’re more likely to be at peace when you’re done here. Remember that many days life delivers surprise assignments, and try to be ready. Today I got a pop quiz in Mind-Body Physics (aka “Your Train of Thought Delivers Your Emotional Freight”). It happened when my amazing wife showed me an advertisement photo of a handsome oil painting she’s wanted for a while. She mentioned that the art dealer had recently lowered the price. In my
reactive genius-mode I made a wisecrack about how it was about the same price as this oddball exercise bike I’d recently obsessed over. In that instant it felt like a joke plain and simple. In hindsight I do see how it could easily be perceived as something other than funny. That’s probably where her next comment came from. Something like, “You don’t want to go there…it’s way less than your motorcycle,” which is an excellent point (I now see). That same reactive genius-mode mentioned earlier propelled me to an internal, “Hmmm, what will I think/feel/say next?” fork in the road. With a spark of that toxic brew of “Wait-a -minute, that’s-not-fair, let-me-set-this-thingstraight” juice starting to kick in. I paused to ponder that path. Hmm, it seemed inviting in a stinky sort of way. After all, “I was just joking and now you made me mad,” popped up on my cranial teleprompter…it must be true, right? Or maybe not. How did that plan of attack work out in previous applications? Really lousy come to think of it. Thankfully I’ve learned a bit in this class the practice has helped me look down another path as well before making my choice and acting on it. With a moment of awareness I saw myself peacefully going to the gym for a morning recharge before heading to work with a smile on my face. What was the magic ingredient for making that copacetic outcome? Simply put, by seeing my choice, chuckling kindly at myself and acting kindly, I was in a peaceful state of mind and grateful for the many generous acts I began recalling being done for me by my wife over our years
together. So with a smile on my face, I cleaned up the kitchen and put her smoothie in the fridge with a hand-drawn heart post-it note out for her. And when I headed out the door I felt upbeat about the day ahead. So I’m giving myself an A for choosing that train of thought. And I’m also offering gratitude to whatever power greater than myself that put the Mind-Body Physics laws into motion. My grade for “Initial Response to Amazing Wife Sharing Desire for Beautiful Painting” is more like a D+ however. Oh well, lots of room to improve — right?
Karen Harrison, Ed.S. Licensed Professional Counselor Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Reiki Master Teacher
REIKI
• REIKI SESSIONS • REIKI CLASSES • CEU’S FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS COUNSELING • SEXUAL ISSUES • RELATIONSHIP/FAMILY • SPIRITUAL CONCERNS
• MANY INSURANCE PLANS COVER TANTRA • CLASSES & SESSIONS
816-523-4440 Matt Kelly CPC, CAC is a certified professional life coach with over 31 years in recovery. He uses his own experience of overcoming a difficult childhood and subsequent addictions, combined with training and intuition, to specialize in helping people with one or more years in recovery let go of compulsive habits and make beneficial choices.
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www.KarenHarrison.net Karen@KarenHarrison.net 8301 State Line Road, Ste 216 Kansas City, MO 64114
Jay Peters M.S., D.MIN
For a consultation call: (913) 339-9591
• Licensed Professional Counselor
Food First
Overcoming the Veggie Challenge
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ast month I outlined a Food First strategy for weight loss, particularly that stubborn menopausal weight gain. I call it the Metabolic Reset. It is effective for anyone — not just menopausal women. I like this approach because it teaches through experience the foods that stall weight loss or cause weight gain, as well as the foods that promote weight loss and wellbeing. The end result is a way of eating that maintains not only a healthier body weight, but a healthier you! A challenge for some with the Metabolic Reset is eating six fistfuls or fist-sized servings of vegetables every day, measured before cooking. Yet many have no trouble eating six fistfuls or fist-sized servings of fruit every day. There is a reason for this. For most of human history, fruit was available only during the summer season. We gorged ourselves on it and gained weight that we would burn off during the winter when food was scarce. Thus, eating fruit sends the signal to get fat for the winter. Eating high fructose corn syrup sends the same signal, but many times louder. We now know about leptin, a hormone secreted by fat cells that tells us we are full and to stop eating. It literally takes the pleasure out of eating. However, eating a lot of sweet foods causes leptin resistance; that is it takes more leptin to make us push the plate away. So we eat more. Leptin also causes us to slow down, another way to hold on to weight for the winter. For these reasons I call leptin the hibernation hormone. So by eating six fistfuls or fist-sized servings of green and white vegetables per day and, at least initially, limiting other colored vegetables, fruits, grains and other sweet tasting foods, the Metabolic Reset can give your body the winter it needs to burn off fat and can reverse leptin resistance. The easiest way to get six fistfuls or fistsized servings of vegetables daily is to eat two at every meal. Vegetables for breakfast? Yes! In many cultures around the world breakfast includes vegetables. It was the same way here until around 1880, when equipment to roll oats and make flakes was invented. The breakfast industry was born and thanks to them, most of us today start our day with a bowl of flakes. Now that’s a ticket to leptin resistance! Green smoothies are another excellent ways to up your veggie intake at breakfast. Also consider having dinner for breakfast. Make some extra and warm it up the next morning. I love eggs and leafy green salad EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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with walnuts, avocado and balsamic vinaigrette. Fresh tomato, cucumber and avocado slices drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt and pepper is a great start to a summer day. Remember celery boats, celery with nut butter spread on them? Skip the raisins and enjoy them as a easy breakfast to go. Veggies dipped in cashew cheese is another delicious breakfast on the run. Enjoy this recipe for cashew cheese. You won’t miss the dairy. Basic Cashew Ricotta Cheese 1 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked for two hours and drained Juice of 1 large lemon 2 teaspoons chick pea miso 1 garlic clove 1/2 cup water Sea salt & cracked pepper, to taste Place cashews, lemon juice, miso, and garlic in a S-blade food processor. Slowly add water as the ingredients are combined until a ricotta cheese-like texture is achieved. Consider that the mixture will thicken in the refrigerator. Add sea salt and pepper to taste. Yields about 2 cups.
Bethany Klug, DO practices holistic medicine at HealthSpan, www.HealthSpanKC.com. She has been helping women AND men through the change since 2003, as well as helping people of all ages resolve chronic health problems with her holistic approach. She takes time to listen to your story and get to the root of your concerns. Why? Because happy, healthy and engaged people make this world a better place!
In the Kitchen with Bonnie
Trezo Mare
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xecutive Chef Robert Padilla selects vintage meat products for his main dish. The cattle have been grass-fed without steroids, hormones or antibiotics. Chef begins his seasonal menu with a house-made pasta tossed with Italian sausage and fresh broccoli. He completes this spring-time feast with lemon bars, raspberries and whipped cream ”In the Kitchen” at Trezo Mare Bonnie Rabicoff is the producer and host of the multi-media foodie series “In the Kitchen with Bonnie.” She has served as the Vice President of Development for KCPT Public Television and the Marketing Director of The Barstow School where she founded and coordinated “The Barstow School Organic Farmers’ Market and Chef Series.” www.inthekitchenwithbonnie.com
Skin. Credible.
Italian Sausage & Brocolli Tossed with House-Made Fiore Pasta and a Petite Tender Prepared by Executive Chef Robert Padilla "In the Kitchen with Bonnie" at Trezo Mare For the Petite Tender: Ingredients 1 each Terres Major (Petite Tender) salt & pepper Directions Season the meat on both sides with a generous amount of salt and pepper. Put your steak directly on the grill, flipping from side to side every 2-3 minutes until you get your desired temperature. Slice the meat against the grain. For the Fiore with Sausage and Broccoli: Ingredients 3 oz fiore pasta, pre-cooked 2 oz Italian sausage, pre-cooked 2 oz broccoli florets, small pieces 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced 6 oz chicken stock 1 oz butter red chili flakes salt & pepper mixed herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, etc.)
Psoriasis. Eczema. Rosacea. Acne.
Directions Start by pre-cooking and cooling the sausage. Set this in the refrigerate for later use. Pre-cook your pasta to al dente, then strain off water and lightly coat with oil, if you do not use the pasta immediately. In a sauté pan, heat 1/2 of your butter. When butter is melted, add the raw broccoli and the pre-cooked Italian sausage (cook these ingredients on medium heat). Season with salt and pepper. When the broccoli starts to turn dark green, add the rest of the butter. Now add the sliced garlic and red chili flakes. Cook the garlic until it turns a light golden color (be careful not to burn). When the garlic is golden, deglaze with chicken stock. Turn heat on high and bring the chicken stock to a boil. Add pasta. Let the pasta cook until the stock is reduced by half. Season the dish with salt and pepper and finish with chopped fresh herbs. Serve immediately.
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Wrinkling. Scars. Allergies. Sensitive. Ashy. Dry. Rashes. Burns.
April 2015
Feature
“Y
How Diet Can Affect Environmental Change
es, I absolutely think of myself as someone who cares about the environment,” she said while noshing on a barbecue rib. I get that Paleo is all the rage these days, and there are definitely ways to make it healthy and more sustainable, but the reality is that as a diet for the planet, it is fundamentally flawed. Let’s take a look at some of the ecological reasons why reducing our reliance on meat is critical to our health and longevity. From a report of the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production: “… these data suggest that the present industrial model of farm animal production is not sustainable for the long term. The overuse and degradation of natural resources may be too great to allow the current form of this production model to continue to be viable.” In a few hundred years, when people look back on this era of civilization, they will surely wonder about our decision-making skills. Just looking at our environment it’s clear that we are using up our planet’s resources very quickly, even while there are obvious methods available to us to reduce the damage. Our government consistently looks away from the single biggest polluter in the country, and the world: Factory animal production. Along with producing a fifth of all greenhouse gasses worldwide, it pollutes streams and waterways, carries disease and underlies many of our most serious health problems. Two byproducts of industrial farming are the emission of methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide into the atmosphere (37 percent and 65 percent, respectively, of the world’s total). Methane is said to be 20 times worse for the planet than CO2 Nitrous oxide is 70 percent worse. Combine that with the amount of waste created, an estimated five tons of animal waste for each U.S. citizen, with limited abilities to contain it; and you can see that reducing our consumption of animal products would go far to relieve a huge burden on our planet. I’m going to toss out some statistics: • 260 million acres of U.S. forests have been destroyed to provide crop land for animal feed. • 70 percent of all grain grown in the U.S. is fed to animals. • 2,400 gallons — yes, 2,400 gallons of water are used to produce one pound of meat. • It takes 11 times the fossil fuel to create one calorie of animal protein compared to one calorie of plant protein.
stir-fries, spaghetti sauce and stews. Adding peanuts or cashews to a stir fry with just a small amount of lean chicken • will give you flavor with a touch of crunch. • • Instead of chicken on a salad, use beans. There are many varieties and they pair well with balsamic vinaigrette. Keep cans of beans handy and freeze what you • don’t use. • Use beans for texture. I pulse garbanzo beans in my food processor to small chunks and add “In a few hundred years, them, along with ground to my spaghetti sauce. This doesn’t even take when people look back fennel It gives it a taste and texture into account the cost to on this era of civilization, similar to adding crumbled our health in terms of sausage. chronic disease, especially they will surely wonder •ItalianAsian and Middle cancer and heart disease. Eastern restaurants are good So, what is the about our decisionchoices as they tend to alternative? A person’s making skills.” feature grains over meat. got to eat, right? It’s true, • Choose restaurants that and I really don’t expect everyone to give up eating meat, but reducing serve locally raised animal products. Call consumption and choosing local, pastured ahead and ask about the farming practices of the purveyors they purchase animals rather than industrial farmed will have a huge impact! Here are some ways to make from. Most chefs are happy to discuss this with you. that happen: • You don’t have to quit eating meat What do you stand to gain by making these completely. A serving of meat should be changes? Aside from supporting a healthier three ounces, which is one ounce less planet for your children and grandchildren, than McDonald’s Quarter Pounder. and stepping away from the cruelty involved in Using meat in small amounts will industrial farming, you’ll probably lose weight, automatically increase the amount of prevent and/or reverse disease, have healthier plant-based food on your plate. Fill it up skin and because you’re supporting your with non-starchy vegetables, whole immune system, you and your family will be grains, fruit and healthy fats. less susceptible to colds and flu. That’s a • Put your focus on reducing or eliminating whole lot of goodness from one choice! red meat that’s traditionally raised. By Sources available upon request. reducing the amount of meat you eat you’ll be able to afford healthier quality. Look for 100 percent grass-fed beef, pastured, organic chicken and wild caught seafood. • Participate in Meatless Monday, and find recipes to support your efforts. Remember that not all recipes work out. It’s important to get that meaty flavor and you can achieve that by adding healthy fat, tamari, mushrooms, smoked paprika and Bragg’s Liquid Aminos. You Nancy Oglesby, CHHC, the owner of can also use Liquid Smoke. HealthWorksKC, wears many hats: • Try a vegan chili recipe. (I’ve got one Blogger, Public Speaker, Educator and that’s always a winner in my cooking Coach! After graduating from the classes and with the meat eaters in my Institute for Integrative Nutrition in life. Go to www.healthworkskc.com/ 2011, she had a mission to inspire as myrecipes for that and more.) many people as possible to create a • Have a salad with every meal. You don’t lifestyle that nourishes their body, mind have to eat it before the meal, include it and spirit. Nancy is also a Juice Plus+ as part of the meal. I grew up in a family Representative. More info at: that ate salad at the end of the meal and www.HealthWorksKC.com. only had dessert if there was company. • Use meat as a condiment and increase the amount of vegetables and whole grains. You can do this easily in soups, •
Americans eat an average of 270 pounds of meat a year. A cow in the U.S. eats 660 pounds of grain to produce 2.2 pounds of protein. Animal use accounts for 70 percent of antibiotics used in the U.S. today. Antibiotic resistant infections kill more than 90,000 Americans each year. According to the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization factory, farming accounts for more greenhouse gases than all of transportation.
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Nature ConsciousnessA New Paradigm in Environmental Activism
“W
e are nature, literally, in every molecule and neuron. We contain clay, minerals, and water; are powered by sunshine through plant life; and are intricately bound to all other species, from fungi to marsupials to bacteria. In our lungs are oxygen molecules breathed by every type of creature ever to have lived on earth." Paul Hawken, Blessed Unrest. For this Earth Day issue of Evolving Magazine, you might be expecting me to tell you how and why to recycle or maybe how to “green up” your business. Maybe you’re looking for ideas on how you can get started on an organic vegetable garden or a pollinatorfriendly native wildflower bed. But since there are thousands of resources that can help you do all those eco projects, this article will take a different approach from an understanding of “Nature Consciousness — A new paradigm in Environmental Activism.” Much advice and Earth Day how-to lists come from an intellectual or scientific premise for cleaning up, restoring or preserving the earth’s natural resources to assure that we have healthy food, clean air and water. We learn how and what to do because we understand it intellectually, or perhaps because we are required to do so by law or statute. We may change our actions because of an “eco” trend, or how we want others to perceive us. For example, many people have lots of reusable shopping bags, water bottles and to-go coffee mugs but often don’t have them in hand when they are at the store or coffee shop. Because there is no deep commitment to the meaning behind these acts, they are easily forgotten— even if there was the best of intentions to use them! As a certified facilitator for The Nature Process®, I've found that when people approach environmental activism from their hearts rather than from their minds they develop a more profound understanding that wells up from the aspect of our innate Nature Consciousness. As Tabitha Jayne, author of The Nature Process explains, “Nature Consciousness is an awakened way of being that reveals the truth of our existence by allowing us to … discover
what it means to be a natural earth human being, rather than just a human being.” True "environmentalism" comes from living within the feeling and natural sense of your human connection to all the natural world; not just from your own human learned or lived perspective. The Nature Process® invites you to go out into nature to experience the following: • Natural Presence – open all your senses to embrace the natural world, to draw it into your breath, vision, hearing and sense of touch. In every moment, in every place, you’ll find sky, weather, air, sunlight, trees and plants. Set an intention to be aware of them all day, every day. • Natural Body – consciously relax tense muscles and then ask yourself how your physical body feels when you breathe in the woods or sit in silence by a meandering creek. • Natural Attraction – be aware of metaphors of the natural world that can help point you to an understanding of your own journey and mindsets, an understanding of interconnectedness and relationship and inevitable changes throughout each day and each season. • Natural Communication – open up to the energetic and resonant connection to the healing and welcoming sense that comes as we engage directly with the earth,
“Nature Consciousness is an awakened way of being that reveals the truth of our existence by allowing us to … discover what it means to be a natural earth human being, rather than just a human being.”
yourself, over and over, “Am I doing this (or do I believe such-and-such) because I was taught that humans and their needs have more value than all other beings? Is that true? Can I make different choices in the food I eat, the work I do, the items I buy (or that I decide NOT to buy) so that I am living from a place of deeper compassion and awareness of the Once you start to feel that connection from interconnectedness of all things?” This Earth Day, take time to draw your the inside — from your breath and body and attention away from your head and into the tactile sensations — you'll naturally be drawn natural world and ask yourself, “How does it to living your life in such a way that honors feel?” in every situation and circumstance of this deeper knowing. You’ll choose to eat foods that are fresh and chemical free because your life. In the end, you might start to remember to you are attuned to how it feels to your body. take your reusable bags and non-plastic water You’ll buy plants that are not treated with bottles with you because it just feels right. pesticides because you grasp your deep connection to insects and soil. You’ll rethink everything you purchase and consume and will automatically ask yourself the questions: Do I need this? If so, was it grown in a sustainable manner? Was it manufactured in a humanitarian facility? Is it recyclable or reusable? Does it come from a renewable resource? And especially, how does it feel? In addition, you will begin to embody this awareness of your natural presence in every moment of your life; your actions and words Yoga and meditation teacher Sami and beliefs will come from a deeper place of Aaron is a certified facilitator of The knowing than your intellect ever could. And as Nature Process®. She leads Nature you begin to live your life this way, people Process workshops and weekend around you will notice. You will naturally draw retreats via questions from others about how and why this www.BeingOntoSomething.org. Sami is of such importance, and so you will spread is currently working towards her the consciousness by simply living it. certification as a Kansas Master So what might you do differently this Earth Naturalist through K-State Research Day and every day? Learn to recognize your & Extension. She can be reached at human-centric eyes; soften them to see SamiAaron@ through the eyes of the soil and water and air BeingOntoSomething.org. and plants and animals and insects. Ask •
plants, trees and wildlife. Natural Release – give into the opportunity to take your limiting beliefs, grief and regrets and leave them in the natural world; experience the nurturing, cleansing and release that many of us feel only in our favorite places in nature.
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“O
Absorbing April: Simple, natural renewal for a busy season
h, the transporting, rapturous scene that rises to my sight...sweet fields arrayed in living green and rivers of delight.” [Samuel Stennett, Seventh Day Baptist minister and hymn writer. 1787] April, indoors, can be tense: taxes, school, tests, deadlines, planning for summer. Mud tracked in makes more housework. Jobs, school and other responsibilities keep us indoors too much. April, outdoors, structured, can be hectic. Days are too short. Projects deferred by winter’s chill demand attention. Organized activities overwhelm weekends and evenings. Gardeners are planning, planting, weeding and beginning to harvest all at the same time. The lawn mower, rake and wheelbarrow clamor for our time and energy. But April, outdoors, unstructured, can delight all of our senses. The fields around us (even just a grassy median) are truly “arrayed in living green,” and both literal and figurative “rivers of delight” wait if we look for them. Where can you find the time, or even the nature, to fully enjoy April? The secret is to keep it small and simple — a few minutes here and there, with simple vistas. Mindfully engage all five of your senses—sight, sound, smell, taste and touch—to get the most from this special season.
April beauty There’s as much beauty in a single flower as in a vast landscape. Even in urban areas, there’s a patch of lawn between buildings, or flowers by a parking lot. That’s all you need. If you have your own yard, trade some of the lawn work for more natural landscaping. Less mowing means more time, and a place for nature to thrive. Even small landscaping changes add up, like deposits in a savings account. Invest in next April while enjoying this one! Take short walks, focusing on your surroundings, not on exercise. Explore your neighborhood — or an area near your workplace — to find little spaces that delight you. Look for a bench near a public building, a special bit of landscaping near the public
sidewalk, a schoolyard, and a creek winding its way through the city. Visit your special place often to take in daily changes.
April arias April is full of special sounds, as well as sights. Seek out a small wetland, such as a drainage ditch, water garden awakening from winter ice, or persistent puddle. Even if you can’t see much, you might hear the quintessential sound of April: Northern Chorus frogs piping sweet songs into the moist air. Rural roadsides offer the best seats for their concerts, but these tiny frogs are common in more urban areas, too. Later in the season, you’ll hear tree frogs trilling at night in urban and suburban woods. Listen for the sounds of spring in parks, cemeteries, edges of parking lots, storm water retention ponds — wildlife doesn’t care if habitat isn’t perfectly landscaped or all natural. Redwing blackbirds are common in spring, warbling distinctive liquid notes. In wooded areas, listen for migrating songbirds or a woodpecker’s drumming. Even the ordinary robin is worth your listening time. After a spring rain, drops of water patter from twigs onto last autumn’s leaves. The musical rushing of water from downspouts and gurgling runoff in street gutters can be as rejuvenating as a babbling brook, fancy fountain or majestic waterfall.
“April, outdoors,
structured, can be hectic. … But April, outdoors, unstructured, can delight all of our senses.”
April aromas
April brings the perfume of jonquil, hyacinth, apple blossom, lilac and more. Fresh-cut grass lends a spicy tang on weekend afternoons. But the dominant smell, on many April days, is the rich, complex smell of rain-soaked, sun-warmed earth. Science is actually finding that aromatic components in fresh, raw earth have powerful positive effects on the human mind and body. The details are complex, but you don’t have to know the facts in order to experience the
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rejuvenating effect of breathing in the smell of damp earth.
April flavors April brings fresh baby lettuce, spinach and radishes. Early April is not too late to put a few salad seeds in the ground. These easy crops take just 30 days to harvest, in the cool nights and warm days of April. Deep tilling often isn’t required — just sprinkle seeds onto bare soil, lightly cover them and watch to see that the soil stays moist until they sprout. Plant a few onion sets a few inches apart, an inch deep, and mulch lightly. You’ll soon harvest tender green onions. If you can find Egyptian Walking onion sets, leave a few in the ground all year, and you’ll have your own zesty treats every April. Wild edibles abound in April! Free salad fixings are almost everywhere — just be sure they’re clean and chemical-free. Nibble on henbit, shepherd’s purse, and clover while weeding. Dandelion greens are delicious in salads and egg dishes (scrambled, omelet, quiche). Violet flowers and leaves are edible, as long as they have white, purple or blue flowers (not yellow).
April caresses April touches us with gentle rain on bare skin, good garden soil on our hands, warm sunlight, and light breezes. Touch back! Trace flower petals with your fingertip — silk never felt so soft. The polished surface of a wild bird’s cast-off eggshell is like a precious gem (remember to wash your hands after exploring April). Engage your whole body in feeling April. Lean on rough tree bark; wrap your arms around sculptured branches. As dusk settles, enjoy the solar warmth stored in the brick wall of a building or a stone outcropping.
April abundance For a full immersion April experience, find a small patch of lawn in a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. If it’s within earshot of your frog pond or woodpecker haven, the better! Tuck a fresh edible leaf between your teeth. Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting damp. Stretch out on the ground full length on your back, arms at your sides or flung wide, looking up at the sky. Breathe — nothing fancy, just experience the air and its offerings. As you relax, fully sense both the intimacy and the immensity of the planet as it supports your body. Gaze up at passing clouds and soaring birds. Focus outside your body, outside your mind, outside your ordinary, and in a few minutes you’ll be full of April. Ready, set, go!
Natalya Lowther is a lifelong artist, writer and observer of nature. Since 1996, she has been building and operating Pinwheel Farm on the north edge of Lawrence, KS. Farm enterprises include vegetables, herbs, fruits, and sheep, as well as agri-tourism and education. Farm products, including handspun, natural dyed wool items, are available at the Downtown Lawrence Farmer’s Market and by appointment at the farm. Detailed observations of life and nature on the farm can be found at www.pinwheelfarm.blogspot.com. The farm’s informational website is www.pinwheelfarm.org. Pinwheel Farm is also on Facebook. Wool and other value-added products are available on Etsy at PinwheelFarm.
Everyday people making an impact, reducing their footprint on the environment This being our “Green” issue of Evolving Magazine we asked our Facebook friends what they do to reduce their impact on the environment. These are some of the answers we received. “Be mindful of returning paper grocery bags for reuse and using fabric bags always. Committed not to use plastic bags again, ever.” - Karen Herman “I live three blocks from my office. My entire adult life, I have lived as close as possible to my place of employment.” - Julie Dailey “Buy more grass fed meat/ poultry products and eco-friendly pesticide plant based foods.” - Karen Carmack “We use household fans in the summer so we can keep our thermostat at 80. In the winter, we have an electric heater in the great room and keep the house thermostat at 67 daytime and about 64 at night.” - Judy Dodson Kirkpatrick “I eat the weeds and wild plants. There is zero footprint in weed eating.” -Kahla Rowan
“Avoid k cups. I refer to my refillable mug and water bottle as my adult pacifiers. They’re always with me. Same with reusable shopping bags...always in my car. I try to carpool and my husband and I switch vehicles based on the amount of driving we will be doing. (We have a truck and a gas-friendly Fit). I compost and use corn gluten instead of weed and feed on my yard, vinegar instead of Roundup, and mulch to save water in the yard and garden. It takes time to develop habits that become the practice not the exception. “One other thing...I think the focus should be on Reduce and Reuse. And another lesser known fact: Solid Waste Facilities (dumps) are designed to be anaerobic. Things that go into those dumpsites do NOT break down. So...using biodegradable plastic garbage bags is not doing anything for the environment. They are not going to break down in a dump. Things biodegrade in an aerobic environment. Using bags made of post consumer waste may be better, but, overall, creating LESS garbage is best.” –Teresa Kelly
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Spiritual Horoscope
April 2015 Aries (March 21 – April 19) Happy Birthday Aries! You might get a raise or a big tax refund. Resist the urge to splurge until you rework your budget. Even subtle changes in money habits bring immense prosperity! Relationships are also super. New connections are in synch with your spiritual goals. Present partnerships will be more fun and passionate! You could even explore Tantra or sacred sexuality together. Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Energetic Mars is in your sign! Take action on ideas about fitness, daring new goals and even dramatic changes to your appearance. The outer you reflects the inner changes in your consciousness! Be brave and release junk in your house that represents the old you. Make space for new blessings — material, emotional or spiritual. Meditate and journal about family "thoughtforms" that hold you back from joy. You can free yourself. The past does dictate your future! Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Make room for abundance, intimacy and joy! Forgive and release resentments from the past two years. Meditate on old pain and rage. (Some ideas might come in dreams.) Write about these people or events. Ask the Universe to heal the wounds. You’ll attract positive new work and love opportunities over the next three months. Use affirmations after clearing your subconscious. Plant pleasant ideas that support your freshly healed heart!
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Make new friends who match your spiritual goals and are also fun! You often spend time with people who drain you, or to whom you feel obligated. Speak up about what YOU like to do. This change can create new friendships from old ones since they’ll be so transformed! If partnered, meditate together about power issues. Are there ways to smooth out challenges? You might only need to be direct instead of expecting mind reading! Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) Jupiter, the planet of abundance and fulfillment, moves direct in your sign! You can release negative patterns. Gratitude lists are especially helpful. Also do creative visualization. You can manifest what you can imagine, so dream big! Meditate on your highest desires, for relationships, career, health, spiritual growth. Include others in your prayers, since your energy is so powerful and you have plenty to spare!
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Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) This is a great time to renew your enthusiasm for spirituality. Try a new yoga class, a new philosophy, or a new meditation method. You'll know it's right since you'll feel you've "come home" in some way. If you're having relationship issues, either a challenging partnership or being unhappily single, dedicate yourself to your new spiritual path and see what changes happen effortlessly over the next few months. Record your dreams for even more guidance. Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) The more you work on internal "issues" — emotional, family, or even karmic/past life — the more fulfillment in your outer world. Meditate to contact your intuition, identify subconscious programming, and release the problems, and you'll have more passion in relationships and greater prosperity. You’ll make new friends, or enjoy people and activities in a new way. Keep digging for hidden "junk" and shine with empowerment! Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) You’ll have awesome career breakthroughs as Jupiter moves direct! You might start a new relationship — or a current partnership will be revived by the confidence from your job. People might be jealous of you, but you’ve worked hard, so don't feel guilty! Meditate for the strength to break from false friends. Jupiter brings positive, group-minded pals into your orbit if you release the old! Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) You’ll feel spiritually rejuvenated! Recommit to a yoga or meditation practice — or however you feel close to your soul. Be kind to your body temple by taking note of what you eat and drink — and be aware of other health habits that build you up or tear you down. Also, use prosperity affirmations to draw more channels of divine supply! Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Pluto, the planet of deep transformation and intense healing, clears inner debris that keeps you from success and joy. Cooperate with this energy by meditating, journalling and believing in your empowerment! Work with past lives and see how they affect you today. Inspiration
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to move forward comes from partners, children, even pets. When you feel how cherished and awesome you are, you can continue to overcome negativity in your head! Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) Like Libra friends, the more you release subconscious patterns, the better relationships will be. Your mind always works overtime and can have negative impact upon those around you. Meditating to observing thoughts and taking control of them makes your “vibe” more soothing, and people relax. Even if they’re not away of where the tension came from, they’ll act differently around you and see you with new eyes. This can be romantic partners, family or work colleagues. And you’ll like being in your won skin more, too! Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Meditate before you talk or act! This month’s full moon eclipse makes subconscious fears bubble up causing you to feel irritable and defensive about money or intimacy. Breathe and gain a higher perspective on emotions. Also look at health habits for substances that create aggression — caffeine, sugar, MSG, etc — even lack of sleep. Honor your body and mind and you’ll see pressing “issues” were just imaginary shadows.
Aluna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than two decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version. Ms. Michaels is available for appointments in her home or by phone. Call (248) 583-1663 or visit alunamichaels.com
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COUNSELING Dr. Jay Peters Marriage & Addictions Counselor. Smoking/ Weight Mgmt. Hypnosis. Regression/Past Life Hypnosis 913-339-9591 www.drjaypeters.com Elizabeth HunterHunter-Blank, LCSW Assisting clients with grief & loss, chronic & serious illness, relationship issues, depression & anxiety. Martha Childers, LPC EdS; 816.892.0803 Women, Couples, 50+, LGBT, Aging in Place End of Life Preparations, Financial, Career www.ChildersCounselingService.com Barb Hoffman, MA, LPC, LCSW, in KCMO; 816.561.1116 Indiv./Couples/Family Therapy Depression & anxiety, abuse & trauma, grief & loss, addictions, relationships. Most insurance. Mindful Counseling, Pamela Wagner, LMSW Play therapy for children (2-12); mindful self-compassion for caregivers. 913 488-8071, www.mindfulcounselingllc.com
MEDITATION
EDUCATION Holos University Graduate Seminary Studies in Spirituality & Health. Graduate degrees grounded in scholarship, intuitive inspiration, self-development & Research ~ 888-272-6109
Kansas City Meditation Group of SelfSelf-Realization Fellowship Sunday Service 10AM 10819 Wornall Rd, KCMO http://kcmeditation.com/ 816-799-5544
NUTRITION & WELLNESS
ENTERTAINMENT Laura Packer, storyteller, writer, coach Storytelling for families, adults, corp/private events. B-days, weddings, funerals, holidays, classes 781-526-7255 www.laurapacker.com Karen Elise - Psychic Entertainer & Coach Tarot / astrology - corporate / private events Fun for weddings, birthdays & graduations 913-636-9502 - www.KarenElise.com
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PETS
New Day Hypnotherapy, LLC Carol Henderson, CH. Stress, Fears, Stop Smoking, Lose Weight, Grief & more. www.newdayhypno.com 913-908-6907 Advanced Quantum Healing Hypnosis Expand your awareness, receive healing Karen Marie, MS, www.co-createnow.com 913-954-9701 intendingmiracles@yahoo.com
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INTUITIVE Shane Knox, Psychic Shaman Intuitive Readings, Shamanic Life Coaching by phone or SKYPE. Schedule now at SHANEKNOX.ME or call 417-866-2248
LIFE COACH Healing Thru Music and Life Coaching For more info. Contact Kathleen (913)206-2151 or Klmamuric@yahoo.com $25.00 per session. Laura Wolf, Transformational Life Coach Unlock Your PASSION, POWER & PURPOSE Counseling, Breathwork, Yoga, Shamanic Journeys www.shamansheartsanctuary.org 913-721-6655 Your Dream is Waiting for You. Certified Dream Builder Coach—Business, Relationship, Wealth, Health. Contact Marcy, 660-441-1805, marcyrobinson01@gmail.com Stephanie Red Feather, the Healer's Healer Transformational life/business/$ coaching, shamanic healing, energy therapies, Reiki classes, women's circles. 913-515-3271, redfeatherconnections.com
SHAMANISM Daniel Baxley, Shamanic Healing and Teachings, Pachakuti Mesa Tradition. Sweat Lodges, Workshops. 816-769-7343, www.shamanicpathways.net
THRIFT STORE 20% off your purchase every time you donate. 25% off every Tuesday with Savers Club Card.13233 Shawnee Msn Parkway, Shawnee, KS 913.248.1938
YOGA Mark Blanchard’s Power Yoga. Focused on breathwork. No levels, props, music or egos. Lots of events! In Ranch Mart Center in OP. www.markskcyoga.net; 913-901-8970. The Yoga School of Therapeutics Kansas State Education Board Approved School 10400 W. 103rd Street, #14 Overland Park, KS
Leavenworth Yoga CoCo-op Join us at Leavenworth's only yoga studio. Daily yoga classes, massage therapy, and Tai Chi. 913-933-9595 ~ www.LvnYogaCoop.com
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Events APRIL 1 OPEN MIC NIGHT Share your talents with a warm, accepting audience. Beer and wine available. 5-9 p.m., at Unity Village Bookstore and Coffee Shop. www.unityvillage.org/bookstore APRIL 7 CLEARING AND TRANSFORMING YOUR ENERGY AROUND MONEY Begin shifting your energy around money, freeing you to be more purposeful and prosperous. 7:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. $25 Vivian Faulkner, Money Coach and Energy Healer (913) 735-3183 Core Star Energy Healing School, 6045 Martway, Mission, KS APRIL 7 SPIRITUAL LIVING AT CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING CROSSROADS The Conscious Act of Surrender Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 6424 Vista Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 For more information call (913) 4411266 Appreciative Giving. All are welcome. APRIL 9 CPR & FIRST AID Thursday from 8:30 – 5:30. Red Cross Format. WellSpring School of Allied Health. $136. Register: Jaclyn Sherrer at 816-523-9140 ext 111. www.wellspring.edu APRIL 10-MAY 3 INTENSIVE THAI YOGA MASSAGE TRAINING Over four consecutive weekends (60 hr.) School of Thai Massage. Explore the ancient practice of Thai Massage -Sen Therapy Anatomical approach -ssisted stretching, and trigger point therapy. At Plaza Wellspring,1900 West 47th Place Suite 328 Westwood, Kansas 66206. Contact Shambhavi at 913-375-0716 or www.schoolofthaimassage.com
APRIL 11 LEARN TO STIMULATE 5 ‘SACRED RING’ ENERGY CIRCUITS IN THE BODY DISCOVERED BY DR. NORM SHEALY 9:00 am – 6:00 pm. $151.00 fee includes a sample set of Dr. Shealy’s bliss oils and laminated charts of each ring. Bring pot luck dish to share for meals. Advance registration required. Contact Linda VanBibber at 816-833-1129 or laylahv@swbell.net for information. APRIL 11 & 15 REFLEXOLOGY Saturday 9-6, Wednesday 6-10. WellSpring School of Allied Health. $204. Text required. Register: Jaclyn Sherrer at 816-523-9140 ext 111. www.wellspring.edu APRIL 12 ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS BARS CLASS With Kathy Lesmeister, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Transcendence Wellness in Merriam transcendencekc.com for improved sleep, health, weight, money, relationships, stress and more. APRIL 13 COMMUNIVERSITY MANDALA CLASS AT HARMONY ENERGETICS 7:00 – 9:00 pm Participants learn basic techniques for illumination of their own mandalas. Register through Communiversity Course number 6010A. There is a $15.00 material fee in addition to the Communiversity class fee of $10.00. Contact Linda VanBibber at 816833-1129 or laylahv@swbell.net for information. APRIL 13 SKILLS FOR HEALTHY ANGER— COMMUNIVERSITY Unhealthy anger is based on fear and hurt. Learn how to separate feelings from anger-related behavior. More info: Anger Alternatives 816-753-5118, www.anger.org.
APRIL 14 CORE STAR ENERGY HEALING CLINIC 7:15 p.m. $20 Experience the benefits of energy healing. 6045 Martway, Suite 104 Mission, KS Reservations (913) 831-4422 www.CoreStarEnergyHealing.com APRIL 14 NEW MOVIE, WISDOM TO SURVIVE Explore solutions to climate change and regain hope for our beautiful Planet Earth in the process. Unity Church of Overland Park, Downstairs in Harmony Hall,103rd & Antioch, 7 p.m., Love offering. APRIL 14 FOUNTAIN DAY CELEBRATION The largest fountain complex in the Kansas City metro area comes to life for the season. 4 p.m., in the central courtyard. www.unityvillage.org APRIL 14 INATTENTIVE BLINDNESS: WHAT TOOK ME SO LONG Does your life need a spark of energy? Are you living without a clear sense of purpose and focus? Are you stuck in your story? IGNITE Your Life! workshop w/Sharon McGloin and Denise Mills, 6 – 9 p.m. (networking @ 5:30), in OP. Only $49; save 20% w/2 or more workshops: www.igniteyourlifekc.com. APRIL 18 PRS: CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY Tammy Barton will present CranioSacral Therapy (CST). 7 p.m. at Westwood Community Center, 4700 Rainbow Blvd., Westwood, KS. Members free, guests $5. More info: www.prskc.org. APRIL 19 YOGA FOR THE BIRDS Stretch and soar with Laurie Callan of Radiant Yoga. Entry fee supports Aveda Earth Month 2015 and the Missouri Audubon. 11 a.m. at The Club House At The Village at Mission Farms, 4080 Indian Creek
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Pkwy, Overland Park, KS. Purchase tickets: http:// www.eventbrite.com/e/yoga-forthe-birds-tickets-15622855381? aff=efbevent. APRIL 19 TRANSCENDENCE ACADEMY New School opening fall 2015: Pre K- 8th grade. Learn our mission, philosophy and curriculum, offer input; 7 p.m. at Transcendence Wellness Center, 5053 Merriam Drive, Merriam, KS. www.transcendencekc.com. APRIL 21 SPIRITUAL LIVING AT CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING CROSSROADS SURRENDER: A SACRED PRACTICE Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30.p.m. 6424 Vista Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 For more information call (913) 4411266 Appreciative Giving. All are welcome. APRIL 21 CREATING MONARCH HABITAT IN YOUR GARDEN Angie Babbitt from Kansas University's Monarch Watch will present a program about planting Milkweed -- the sole food of critically endangered Monarch Larvae. Unity Church of O. P., Downstairs in Harmony Hall, 103rd & Antioch. 7 p.m. APRIL 21 & 28 REFLEXOLOGY Tuesdays, 1:30-5:30 and 8:30-5:30. WellSpring School of Allied Health. $204. Text required. Register: Jaclyn Sherrer at 816-523-9140 ext 111. www.wellspring.edu APRIL 24 & 25 AKASHIC RECORDS CERTFICATION CLASS Experience profound alignment with your soul through a unique and powerful connection to the Akashic Records. Navigate the experience for yourself or others with the support of Stephanie Forcier, Certified Teacher & Advanced Practitioner. Mark Blanchard’s Power Yoga, OP, KS Registration & Pricing, call Stephanie: (816) 260-
2438, or email stephanie@innerwisdomevolution.com APRIL 25 MANDALA CIRCLES OF WHOLENESS WOMEN’S HEALING RETREAT 8:00 am – 8:00 pm. 12-hour mandala healing processing intensive for women. $131.00 fee includes materials. Advance registration required. Bring pot luck dish to share for meals. Contact Linda VanBibber at 816-833-1129 or laylahv@swbell.net for information. APRIL 25 HARMONY ENERGETICS SOUND HEALING MEDITATION WITH GUIDED IMAGERY BY RAMIE HAAS 7:00 pm. Last Saturday every month at Hummingbird Touch. Love offering. Contact Linda VanBibber at 816-833-1129 or laylahv@swbell.net for information. APRIL 25-26 THE ECSTATIC EMPATHIC ENTREPRENEUR A must-attend training for all intuitives, sensitives and empaths, especially if your gift is your business. Sat. 2-6, Sun. 9-6. Tuition $229. Info/ register: Stephanie Red Feather, www.redfeatherconnections.com/ eee, 913-515-3271. APRIL 28 CORE STAR ENERGY HEALING CLINIC 7:15 p.m. $20 Experience the benefits of energy healing. 6045 Martway, Suite 104 Mission, KS Reservations (913) 831-4422 www.CoreStarEnergyHealing.com APRIL 29 NATIONAL WALK AT LUNCH DAY There’s no place more beautiful to walk at lunch than Unity Village. High energy music will be playing to motivate you! 11 a.m.-1 p.m., in the central courtyard. www.unityvillage.org
MAY 4 - JUNE 22, 2015 8-WEEK MINDFULNESS BASED COGNITIVE THERAPY PROGRAM Research based intervention preventing relapse of recurrent distressing mood states. Call to schedule a free interview to see if MBCT is right for you 913-735-5566 www.mindfulkc.com MAY 5 CLEARING AND TRANSFORMING YOUR ENERGY AROUND MONEY Begin shifting your energy around money, freeing you to be more purposeful and prosperous. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. $25 Vivian Faulkner, Money Coach and Energy Healer (913) 735-3183 Core Star Energy Healing School, 6045 Martway, Mission, KS MAY 12 RELOOK, RETHINK & REIMAGINE: SEE LIFE THROUGH A NEW LENS Does your life need a spark of energy? Are you living without a clear sense of purpose and focus? Are you stuck in your story? IGNITE Your Life! workshop w/Sharon McGloin and Denise Mills, 6 – 9 p.m. (networking @ 5:30), in OP. Only $49; save 20% w/2 or more workshops: www.igniteyourlifekc.com. ONGOING RESTORATIVE YOGA IN LEAVENWORTH Wednesdays 2-3 p.m. and Fridays 6:30 -7:30 p.m. Gentle, relaxing class for all levels. 521 Delaware St., Leavenworth. Register: www.LvnYogaCoop.com or 913933-9595. ANGER ALTERNATIVES ANGER SUPPORT GROUP "Stoppit!" Program: every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Family Health Care on Rainbow and SW Blvd. Pre-registration required: www.anger.org, info@anger.org, 816-753-5118.
BECOME A MASTER MANIFESTOR & OPEN YOUR INTUITION 1st Saturdays (4 weeks) 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Transcendence Wellness Center. Relationships ~ Money ~ Health ~ Purpose ~ Self. Registration required: transcendencekc.com. EMOTIONAL HEALING WORKSHOP 1st Saturdays (4 weeks) 2-6 p.m. at Transcendence Wellness Center. Dive into the subconscious mind where blocks are held. Unblock & heal trigger of the past. Registration required: www.transcendencekc.com. SPIRITUAL LIVING AT CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING CROSSROADS APRIL SERIES: SURRENDER Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 6424 Vista Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 For more information call (913) 441-1266 Appreciative Giving. All are welcome. HEALTHY LIFESTYLE - ESSENTIAL OILS, SUPPLEMENTS, PERSONAL CARE Every Monday at 6:30 p.m. you are invited to join our gathering of Young Living Independent Distributors to network and share. Order from the varied menu at the cantina then enjoy conversation, dinner, a featured topic, and brief business topic. For more information call (816) 810-3787; https:// www.facebook.com/ HealthOdyssey4u/. UNITY VILLAGE HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER Call for Spring Rates 816-347-5537 www.unityvillage.org/lodging REIKI CIRCLE Unity Church of Overland Park – 10300 Antioch, OPKS. 2nd and 4th Mondays 7-9pm. Love offering. All welcome. Receive a Reiki treatment. For flier email karen@karenharrison.net. 816-5234440
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ALMOST YOGA FOR THE STIFF & INFLEXIBLE Wednesdays 5:30-6:45 p.m. and Sundays 1:15-2:30 with Jocelyn Costa. Love offering, bring mat and water. At Village Wellness Connection in Claycomo, 816.8038056, www.VWellnessConnection.com. FIRST SATURDAY TRANSCENDENCE WELLNESS CENTER “Become a Master Manifestor & Open your own Intuition Workshop” 10am-1pm And “Emotional Healing Workshop” 2pm-6pm 4 week Workshops Relationships ~ Money ~ Health ~ Career ~ Job ~ Purpose ~ Self These 4 week workshops dive deeply into the subconscious mind where blocks are held. Unblock & heal triggers & heartaches of the past. Reg. required www.transcendencekc.com or (913) 387-4631 JIN SHIN JYUTSU CLASSES 1st Wednesdays and 3rd Tuesdays 12 p.m. with Linda Meserve 913.706.3107, love offering, no experience required. At Village Wellness Connection in Claycomo, www.V-WellnessConnection.com. SERENITY PAUSE™ MEDITATION 7 DAYS A WEEK - 365 DAYS A YEAR, 12:10pm-12:40pm and 5:30 p.m.—6:00 p.m., Myrtle Fillmore Chapel. Love offering. Unity Temple on the Plaza, 707 W. 47th St, KCMO 64112 www.unitytemple.com or call 816561-4466 ENERGY HEALING SESSIONS FOR CANCER PATIENTS AND VETERANS By Appointment. The Kansas City Healing Project provides energy healing sessions for cancer patients and veterans. Our clients have been experiencing a reduction of their stress, anxiety and pain levels. These sessions are provided at NO COST to the client. Contact John Hoefer at 816-718-6358 for details. KansasCityHealingProject.org
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