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JUNE 2009 ~ VOL. 1, ISSUE 4
Xvolving A Guide for Conscious Living
Healing Your Metabolism Lifestyles of the Healthy and Harmonious Macrobiotics The Healing Benefits of Touch
publisher’s letter
contents
Dear Friend, I am awed by the number of holistic health practitioners in the Kansas City area. The response to this issue on health and wellness is extraordinary: both the number of advertisers as well as writers that participated. It’s obvious that KC is not only enlightened to the benefits of alternative care but is willing to support the process. Thanks to all of you! The response so far to Evolving has been phenomenal, as well. I am so grateful for all who support this endeavor:
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products, services, or attend an event.
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Lifestyles of the
Our advertisers—they are the backbone of this publication. Please show your support and mention where you saw their ad when you use their The contributors—there are numerous people behind the scenes at Evolving, all of which are critical to the quality and depth of the publication. Judy
Healthy and Interview with
Harmonious
Teri Rounds
page 15
Kirkpatrick volunteers as a proofreader and has done so for many years (she’s also an awesome cheerleader!). Connie Humiston and Karen Cowdry
page 10
work diligently on ad sales. And all of the writers who contribute each month enable us to provide informative, thoughtful, enlightening articles.
Healing Your
In addition to our distributor, also crucial to the evolution of Evolving are the volunteers who distribute copies at local events. Thanks to all!
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Metabolism
Our sponsors—we are eternally grateful for the support and encouragement of our sponsorship agreements. The Cornerstone Foundation allows
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us the opportunity to share in the events they offer. House of Menuha is an ongoing supporter that’s greatly appreciated. And Open Circle is providing an awesome chance to host a movie premier. The details are on the back cover. Open Circle has provided 10 sets of tickets to the event that we’re giving away on June 9 (see ad on page 10 for details). I hope you all can be there!
Jill Dutton
Optimum Nutrition
Plus:
Community
Your Emotional Brain
Events
and Health page 18
page 11
Acupuncture page 12
Chi in the Martial Arts page 16 Publisher Jill Dutton
Proofreader Judy Kirkpatrick
Contributors Carmelita Davis-Beets, Liz Brown, Paul Finney, Bethany Klug, Jude LaClaire, Aluna Michaels, Moira Mulhern, Becky Reed, Nancy Russell, Susun Weed, Scott Winokur
Evolving 913-944-1298 jill@evolvingmagazine.com www.evolvingmagazine.com
Advertising ~Connie “Crash” Humiston 913–322-3378 ~ conniecrash@kc.rr.com ~Karen Cowdry 913-636-9502 ~ karenelise@kc.rr.com
Evolving© 2009 all rights reserved. The opinions expressed are those of the authors. Distribution by PDS, Inc.
Departments: News Briefs
5
Journey of Wholeness
9
Food Conscious
7
Spiritual Horoscope
17
Holistic Wisdom
8
Events
18
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Evolving…
contributors
Paul Peter Finney “My First Acupuncture Treatments” page 12
Becky Reed “Lifestyles of the Healthy and Harmonious” page 17 Scott Winokur “Chi in the Martial Arts” page 16 Aluna Michaels Spiritual Horoscopes page 17
Jude LaClaire “Touch II” page 9
Nancy Russell “A Holistic Approach to Healing Your Metabolism” page 14
Liz Brown Interview with Teri Rounds page 10
Evolving…
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June 2009
Bethany Klug “No Pressure Cooking with a Pressure Cooker” page 7
Moira Mulhern “Your Emotional Brain and Health” page 11
Carmelita DavisDavis-Beets “Macrobiotics” page 8
books/news
The Denim Diet Provides Useful, Practical Tips for Healthy Living The Denim Diet: 16 Simple Habits to Get You Into Your Dream Pair of Jeans (The No-Nonsense Guide to a Smaller You and a Healthier Planet) by Kami Gray stays true to the title. Rather than a typical diet plan, The Denim Diet consists of Kami’s “List” which details basic healthy living practices.
with beef from dozens or even hundreds of different cows.” Apparently, because the machinery at cattle plants, “scrapes off as much of the meat from the cow as possible, pieces of spinal cord and marrow have been discovered in ground beef.” Her goal is to train the reader to find fast foods offensive.
Actually, the entire book is humorous, practical , enlightening and a little scary. Her chapter on fast food was particularly frightening. Other than the high fructose corn syrup in most items, it was disheartening to learn that some fast-food hamburger meat has a higher chance of contamination because it’s, “made
Other chapters are enlightening and funny. She offers practical tips for organic shopping as well as green practices. Item #2, The Great Debate, details the benefits of brown, whole grains and details the perks of eating low GI. Overall, it’s an extremely entertaining as well as informative guide to healthy eating.
Study Finds Benefits of Therapeutic Massage for Chronic Neck Pain Neck pain is a common health problem in the United States. People suffering from neck pain often turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. Although therapeutic massage is one of the most popular CAM therapies for neck pain, little is known about its effectiveness for this condition. In a National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)-funded study conducted at the Group Health Center in Seattle, 64 adults with neck pain persisting for at least 12 weeks were randomly assigned to receive either massage or a self-care book. The massage group had up to 10 treatments over a 10-week period, provided by licensed practitioners who used a variety of common Swedish and clinical massage techniques and also made typical self-care suggestions. After 4, 10, and 26 weeks, the researchers interviewed participants to assess function (Neck Disability Index), symptom bothersomeness, and other measures. After 10 weeks, the massage group was more likely than the self-care-book group to have clinically significant improvement in function and symptoms. At 26 weeks, the massage group tended to be more likely to report improvement in function but not in specific symptoms. For both function and symptoms, mean differences between the two groups were strongest at 4 weeks and not evident by 26
weeks. At all follow-up points, the massage group was more likely than the self-care-book group to report global improvement ratings of "better" or "much better." At 26 weeks, medication use had increased 14 percent for the self -care-book group but had not changed for the massage group. There were no serious adverse experiences reported. The researchers concluded that therapeutic massage is safe and may have benefits for treating chronic neck pain, at least in the short term. They recommended studies to determine optimal massage treatment, as well as larger, more comprehensive studies to follow patients for at least one year.
Evolving...
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June 2009
food conscious
No Pressure Cooking with a Pressure Cooker By Bethany Klug, DO I’m often asked how I find time to cook. My answer has two parts. First, healthy delicious food is essential for my well-being, so cooking usually comes first on my to-do list. Plus, I find nothing more relaxing, creative or satisfying than trying a new dish or savoring an old favorite. Second, I use a pressure cooker. The usual response I get to that is, “The ones that explode?” Not exactly. Pressure cookers have come a long way since the days of noisy valves and an occasional explosion. Thanks to new technology, today’s pressure cookers automatically depressurize when overheated. A pressure cooker is essential for quick preparation of whole grains and beans. For example, brown rice takes one hour to cook conventionally. It also requires the use of a flame tamer or very low heat to avoid scorching. With a pressure cooker, it takes 35 minutes and won’t scorch if an Ohsawa pot is used. Black beans cook in two hours conventionally, but take only 15 minutes in a pressure cooker. Long bean soaking times can also be avoided with a pressure cooker. There are other advantages to pressure cooking. Foods retain their nutrient value because pressure cooking uses less water and the nearly airtight seal prevents nutrients from escaping. Pressure cooking tenderizes meat quickly so less expensive
cuts can be used. Lower cooking times use less energy. Select a stainless steel pressure cooker. Aluminum ones are available, but will leach harmful aluminum into the food. Look for a removable pressure regulator. A removable one is far easier to clean when it becomes clogged with food. The pressure cooker must generate at least 15 pounds of pressure to save time over conventional methods. A lid locking mechanism and a pressure release system will prevent explosions. The 5 liter size usually suits a family of 4. As when selecting any piece of cookware, pick it up by the handles and make sure it feels right in your hands. My Magefesa pressure cooker is highly rated and has performed beautifully for 20 years (www.magefesausa.com). Kuhn Rikon’s Duromatic pressure cooker is also highly rated (www.kuhnrikon.com.) The Ohsawa pot is available at Goldmine Natural Foods: www.goldminenaturalfood.com. Brown rice is cooked in this pot inside the pressure cooker. This makes scorching impossible. This recipe also calls for kombu, a seaweed that enhances the flavor of the rice and tenderizes it, making it easier to digest. Find it at your local natural foods store.
Art Therapy Workshops www.avisgarrett.com Awakening the Heroes within (Carol Pearson) Mirror image contour drawing (designed by Elizabeth (grandma) Layton) • Women who run with the wolves (Estes) • Indian Talking sticks • Mandalas • Soul Collage Cards (Seena Frost) Workshops are designed for each group in mind. Visit avisgarrett.com for a complete list.
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Www.avisgarrett.co
Dr. Avis Garrett Baptist, registered art therapist
Perfect Pressure Cooked Brown Rice 1-1/2 cups brown rice ½ tsp salt 1 4-inch kombu stick Water Wash the rice by placing it in a bowl and filling the bowl with water. Stir the rice around with your hand. Chaff will float to the top. Carefully pour off the water and the chaff. Do this twice more or until the water runs clear. Place the rice in a one-quart Ohsawa pot. Add the salt and the kombu. Fill the pot to the top with water and secure the lid. Fill the pressure cooker with one inch of water. Place the Ohsawa pot inside. Secure the lid of the pressure cooker and bring it to full pressure according to its instructions. Cook for 35 minutes, and then remove the pressure cooker from the burner. Allow it to depressurize on its own. Serves 4 to 6. Bethany Klug is a physician for whom food is a doorway to personal, community, and planetary health. Learn more about her practice of “Restoring Health with Holistic Medicine” at 913-642-1900 and www.bethanyklug.com.
Traci Bray, BA, MS MEDIUM Kansas City
Providing Readings (Medium*/Psychic) for: ~Individuals ~Families ~Groups, Small to Large
*Medium: one who connects the living with those passed Psychic: one who sees across time
913.940.0754 www.tracibray.com 913.940.075dividuals Evolving… 7 June 2009
Kelly Clutter
holistic wisdom
Certified Rolfer & Licensed Massage Therapist Rolfing enhances your posture and freedom of movement. It can resolve pain and discomfort from many different causes, including: -Back Pain -Repetitive Motion Injury -Trauma -Aging Rolfing is also an excellent foundation for and complement to Yoga, Pilates and other personal wellness practices. www.KCRolfer.com 913-449-0189
People are learning to live more frugally whether due to job loss, starting a new business, or simply to save money. How do you get along during lean times? Have you learned
creative ways to have fun, eat well, and live
fully while following a budget? Share your story! Jill Dutton is working on her new book:
Living Richly During Lean Times Your testament of faith, joy and inspiration could be included in the book. Please contact Jill for more information: jill@evolvingmagazine.com.
Shamanic Pathways at White Deer Lodge Daniel Baxley THOTH Endorsed Teacher in The Pachakuti Mesa Tradition Offering: Shamanic Healing and Teachings, Spiritual Counseling, Sacred Stone Massage, Reiki, Craniosacral, Vision Quest, Sweat Lodge, and Workshops 816-769-7343 email: rainbowspiritstar@yahoo.com Website: www.shamanicpathways.net Evolving… 8
June 2009
Macrobiotics By Carmelita Davis-Beets Do you strive for balance in your life? Do you try to keep yourself and your life in harmony with family, nature and the universe? If so, you should consider the ideas and guidelines of macrobiotics. Macrobiotics is the practical application of the natural laws of change. This tool provides guidance in learning to live within the natural order of life. The term comes from the Greek “macro,” meaning great, and “bio,” meaning life. Macrobiotics, as it is known today, is the result of the tireless work and vision of George Ohsawa (1893-1966). Ohsawa developed tuberculosis at the age of 15. By the time he was 18, his mother, brother and sister had all died of the same disease. Though his doctors gave up on Ohsawa as well, through sheer determination he survived. He then began a lifelong journey of exploring alternative healing. Macrobiotic principles are best known for their application to diet and health, though the principals can be applied to all areas of life. The macrobiotic approach to nutrition emphasizes whole grains and fresh vegetables and for the most part avoids meat, dairy and processed foods. The goal is to provide the body with essential nutrients so that it can function efficiently, without loading it with toxins or excesses that must be eliminated or stored. Macrobiotic theory is that the body is always adjusting to changes in the environment, as well as its own aging process— so its needs are always changing, as well. Macrobiotic practice emphasizes the two food groups that have the least pronounced yin and yang qualities—grains and vegetables. A person eating diet
rich in these foods will find it easier to achieve a more balanced condition within the natural order of life. Living within the natural order means eating only what is necessary for one’s condition and desires, and learning to adjust in a peaceful way to life’s changes. When eating in a macrobiotic way, thought is given to balancing the effects of foods eaten with other influences on the body, and to adjust to changes in a controlled and peaceful manner. The two most important benefits of macrobiotic practice are freedom from fear and a new sense of control. Those beginning a macrobiotic diet experience a period of healing, beginning with the elimination of accumulated toxins and excesses. Macrobiotic practice encourages the body’s natural ability to heal itself. When not burdened by toxins and excesses, our bodies function better and heal more easily. True macrobiotic practice emphasizes balancing extremes in all areas. The goal of macrobiotics is not to avoid death, which is part of the cycle of life, but rather to ensure that each person’s life is long, healthy and enjoyable.
Carmelita Davis-Beets is the founder and president of the Midwest Institute of Natural Healing, located at 5518 N. Antioch Road in Kansas City, Mo. The school offers courses of study in Holistic Nutrition Consulting, and Body Somatic Therapy—a unique method of structural integration bodywork that is tailored to address the physical and emotional issues of each person. Carmelita can be reached at 816-453-3577, or Carmelita@NaturalHealingSchool.org.
journey to wholeness Miss the May issue of Evolving?
Touch II By Jude LaClaire, Ph.D. When we touch with compassion, we have no room for violence. —John Upledger, D.O. Touch as a healthy expression of concern, friendship or encouragement is a spontaneous gesture for many people. However, there are those who may not want it or even find it fearful or threatening. When offering touch it is good to remember a few ‘touch tips’ as you reach out. Getting permission is important. In general, hugs, handshakes, a hand on the shoulder or a comforting rub on the back are examples of appropriate touch. Even that might be too much for some people. If the person extends a hand, that lets you know that this is the level of touch that is comfortable for him/her. You might move toward a person who appears in need of a comforting hand on the shoulder. You can look at their eyes and watch their body language for consent. As I was searching for resources on positive touch I found a very amazing program called Peaceful Touch: A Healthy Touch Curriculum for Children, which began in Stockholm, Sweden in the early 1990s. Hans Axelson, director of the Axelson Gymnastika Institute where Swedish massage is taught, developed a system that incorporated healthy touch in the classroom in the form of basic Swedish massage, letter, number and story games and other simple touches. The development of this program was based on research that showed that nurturing touch for children releases oxytocin, the feel-good “cuddle hormone” which promotes empathy, calmness and concentration. Today more than 300,000 students in Europe have participated in Peaceful Touch. Peaceful Touch found its way to the U.S. by 2003. The first program in the U.S., begun by Linda Derick, was at a Connecticut early education center. The
program was re-tooled for American culture, which meant no Swedish massage and no handto-skin contact, which was too uncomfortable for not so touchy Americans. Clare LaPlante states in the article, The Kids Are All Right, “Peaceful Touch U.S. created its own training manual, which included its four principals: permission (always ask first), presence (be present to your friend), pressure (ask for feedback) and practice (makes perfect).” This is a wonderful summary of guidelines for positive touch. The center’s director reported that the Peaceful Touch training was like visiting Mars. “In my [traditional American] education, we never had any kind of coursework discussing touch, the quality of touch and the importance of touch.” He saw immediate results with one 4-year-old boy who had frequent temper tantrums. The boy would scream and get upset if anyone came near. Now, even if he says no to Peaceful touch, he quickly calms down. The center now implements Peaceful Touch as part of its normal day. Some of the children bring the new skill home to share with their parents. He also noticed that the staff began to connect with each other. “When we start touching each other, it brings up trust, intimacy, vulnerability and kindness.” One approach to positive touch in this country has been in reaction to inappropriate, uninvited sexual touch. Safe Touch programs stress having and recognizing good boundaries, knowing the difference between good and bad touch and how to report concerns to a safe adult. This information is very important but misses the key point that positive touch is essential and the best preventive and healing approach to inappropriate, aggressive or sexual touch. Frances M. Carlson, author of Essential Touch: Meeting the Needs of Young Children, says “What I think we don’t understand in this culture is that
withholding touch from children from fear is as physically and emotionally harmful to children as harmful touch is.” A massage therapist, who is also an abuse survivor, told of her experience in massage school. Sharing her experience with touch she found that several other female students were also abuse survivors. When I taught a module on personal history of touch and family history to massage students, I found that nearly half of the students had been sexually abused in some way. This hunger for healthy touch had overcome their destructive experience of touch. Experiencing healthy touch as an infant or young child teaches mutual respect and kindness. The Peaceful Touch benefits are: • Greater empathy for peers • Improved concentration • Less fighting and aggressive behavior • Better functioning in groups • Lower levels of anxiety and stress. Peaceful Touch depends on three fundamentals of the program: • Need for human touch • Oxytocin factor • Permission process Like three legs of a stool, these are the important aspects of touch for all of us to remember and to implement in our daily lives. We will be filling the vital need that touch is necessary for life…your life and the lives of those you touch. Jude LaClaire, Ph.D, LCPC, LCSW, is a counselor, educator and author. For counseling appointments, groups, seminars, Neurobehavioral Programs or speaker’s bureau call 913-3220023. For more information on Jude LaClaire and the KC Holistic Centre go to www.kcholistic.com. Email: jude@kcholistic.com
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Arvind Zanje has taught traditional Hatha Yoga in India for the past 12 years. Arvind will be teaching you with his very gentle manner and very gentle soul.
June Workshops at
• • • • •
Beginner’s Yoga Yoga for Diabetes Yoga for Heart Disease Advanced Workshop Breath and Relaxation
Unique opportunities to learn from a true yoga master! See event listings on page 18 for more information or visit: www.myeverydayyoga.com Evolving… 9 June 2009
in business
Your Healing is in Sight: An Interview with Teri Rounds, RN, C.Ir. By Liz Brown Just like snowflakes, no two eyes are alike. In this hi -tech world we live in, the emerging standard for personal ID is indeed the eyes, for the eyes don’t lie. But we’ve known that for years. Analyzing the iris (the colored part of the eye) may be the foundation of new world security, but there’s ancient wisdom at its heart in the study of Iridology, where every marking and spot tells a story. What do your eyes say about you? Teri Rounds has an established Iridology practice in Michigan and is a member of the International Iridology Practitioners Association. Currently finishing her Bachelor’s Degree in Naturopathic Medicine, she soon will continue with Doctoral Studies. How did you get into Iridology? I am a seasoned R.N. with close to 30 years experience as a SWAT nurse. This type of medicine wasn’t working for me anymore; there had to be a better way. Asking for guidance, I received direction in a rather strange way—through my love of horses. I met a woman at a horse clinic who encouraged me to get involved in horse Iridology. I had the background, the love of herbal medicine and a strong desire to heal others. So I did the research, made up my mind to go for it, and here I am a Certified Iridologist and loving every minute of it. I opted for humans instead of horses—maybe someday!
Why are you so passionate about Iridology? I have been blessed with a very special gift, Iridology. Iridology is an ancient science; it is “seeing” through the eyes. The nerves in the body are attached to organs, muscles, tendons, etc., and these nerves travel through the spinal column and attach to the back of the eyes. When an organ is suppressed for whatever reason, it shows up in the eyes as a discoloration, inflammation or a reaction. Iridology is a way of viewing inherited tendencies to weakness. It enables me to see various disease processes and is a health analysis both accurate and preventative. I am able to identify genetic tendencies before someone may even feel the symptoms. The whole idea of Iridology is prevention. How does Naturopathic Medicine help? You could work miracles in people’s lives with allopaths working alongside naturopaths. Naturopathic medicine resonates more with me than allopathic medicine because you can heal yourself if you give your body the tools it needs. I work with encouraging lifestyle change, the use of herbs, cellular nutrition, supplementation and whole organic foods. But letting your body heal itself is not accomplished overnight. For every year you have had an illness, it takes at least one month for the process of healing to take place. What can a client expect in a consultation? When you first come to my office, I will take a picture of both of your eyes (12 in all). These photos will then be enlarged on my computer. Once this is completed, I then assess different areas of the eye that repre-
Why You Need Acupressure Therapy to help you achieve total balance become still and in harmony to be able to listen to your own body and achieve your highest goals Visit www.journeynhc.com for a list of health benefits. Elmari van der Westhuizen, Dipl. A.B.T. (NCCAOM) Cell: (816) 536 0024 Affiliated with www.touchedbycancerfoundation.org
June 2009 10 Evolving…
sent the internal organs that may be showing signs of stress and a need for supportive measures. I can go in and look at an eye and pinpoint when it started—when you started to have that problem at age 12 or 13 and started holding that anger and resentment inside. Until you let go of those things, you’re probably going to stay a sick person or become a sick person. Fear is held in the kidney, anger in the liver, frustrations with money in the reproductive organs. If I can deal with someone right when they’re starting to have issues, we can work on it. I try to make sense out of it for them. I’m no psychiatrist obviously, but there are things I can encourage them to do. Because of my assessment skills, because I’ve been a nurse for 30 years, I know the questions to ask. And the specific Iridology chart I use for analyzing is one that makes sense to me from a nursing perspective. Kansas Citians will have an opportunity to see clearly on June 25th at 7:30 pm when Teri Rounds, R.N. IIPA Certified Iridologist, presents “Your Healing is In Sight,” for the Cornerstone Foundation at Unity Temple on the Plaza. Thursday evening presentation followed by Reception. Tickets $10. Private Iridology appointments Fri/Sat June 26-27. Call (816) 994-8009 for tickets and details.
Since 1996, Liz Brown has offered "A Hand In Healing" to the Midwest, providing a full complement of Feng Shui Services and Spirited Writings. Check out ahandinhealing.com for more information or call (816) 444-2725.
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Your Emotional Brain and Health “Right brain activity is the only way to access the emotional part of your brain.” By Moira A. Mulhern Did you know that for every outside event that you experience, you have a mental and emotional response? Every second of every day, you are responding mentally and emotionally to everything that is happening to you. Here is why: everything that happens is processed in the subcortical part of the brain, also known as the limbic system or stream of emotion. There is nothing you can do about this; it is the way you are wired. The only way around it is if you were somehow disconnected from that part of your brain. We also know from research done by J.W. Papez that the brain can be separated into three sections. The stream of cognition governs your intellectual functioning; the stream of emotion governs your emotional functioning; and the stream of motion governs your movement and speech. The three sections are not very well connected to each other. In essence, there is a lot of communication within each section, but not much between each section. For instance, let’s say you decide to go on a diet. You know all of the intellectual reasons why you should diet—you start out well and eat a healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner, then at 10:00 at night you eat a pan of brownies or bag of potato chips. You think to yourself, “I know I need to do this, so why can’t I make myself diet?” What has happened is that your stream of cognition decided you need to do this, but your stream of emotion said “No, I’m not dieting.” And guess which part of your brain is more powerful? The stream of emotion. So, how do you deal with this? You need to get the stream of cognition and stream of emotion on the same path. And how do you get the stream of emotion agreeing with the
stream of cognition? Through right brain activity. Right brain activity is the only way to access the emotional part of your brain. Some right-brain ways to access the emotional part of your brain: Relaxation response: There are many techniques that can help you relax. Deep relaxation is great for accessing your stream of emotion. To read further, go to www.mbmi.org/benson. Repetitive prayer—The repetition of a simple prayer over and over. Repetitive physical exercise—Running, elliptical, treadmill, etc. Meditation techniques—Think Jon Kabat-Zin or Jack Kornfield. Breathing techniques—Thousands to choose from! Self talk—The repetition of simple language over and over again. Imagery—Imagining yourself reaching your goals, picturing everything exactly as you would like it to be. Listen to calming recordings, music or voice. For a wonderful description of how the right brain functions I recommend viewing a video of a scientist named Jill Bolte Taylor. Go to www.ted.com/talks/view/ id/229—it is worth the 18 minutes!
Moira A. Mulhern, Ph.D. is co-founder and CEO of Turning Point: The Center for Hope and Healing. For more information on Turning Point services go to www.turningpointkc.org.
Evolving… 11 June 2009
health & wellness
“I had survived life by trying harder, working more and clinging to life with my fingernails.�
My First Acupuncture Treatments By Paul Peter Finney I was on a spiritual journey to heal myself of the depression I'd experienced from the age of fourteen. It was so painful that during my college years in California, I would debate whether I should jump off the Golden Gate or the Bay Bridge. Post college, I got through the army and a year in Viet Nam with remarkable alacrity. A year in Los Angeles and a decade in Florida lead to some years in Washington, D.C., where my healing began in earnest. I had survived life by trying harder, working more and clinging to life with my fingernails. I was in a weekend meditation retreat in an ashram in Washington, taught by a Presbyterian minister from Harlem. He had a glow about him that told me he had experienced great healing and spiritual growth from his meditation. I liked him and trusted him. I sat next to a guy who, like me, was from a small town in Kansas. He had a squashed look to him as if his spirit had been wounded at an early age. With enthusiasm, he told me about his acupuncture treatments. I thought, "What a weird thing to do," but listened intently as I knew he was very sincere. On subsequent visits to this particular ashram, I would see him and hear more enthusiastic accounts of his acupuncture. Then for some rea-
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Evolving...
son unknown to me, he quit coming and I didn't see him. Then about 18 months later, I ran into him on the hot sidewalks one summer evening in the DuPont Circle area of Washington. The squashed look was gone. Before me stood a man with dancing eyes, radiant round cheeks and a happy smile. As we visited, I said to myself, "I don't need to know any more about acupuncture, I'm trying it." I'd also met an acupuncturist at the ashram, though not the one my friend was going to. I'd misplaced his number, but a few days later he called. "Paul, have you thought anymore about doing acupuncture." "Yes, let's make an appointment," I replied. He had gotten the vibes that I was thinking about him and took the initiative to call me. At his office, I was just sure his eyes had become slanted, even though he was Caucasian. It was my own fear of this very Oriental medicine. After my first treatment, I looked in the mirror. I liked myself more, and thought I looked better. My self-esteem had not been any too high, so this was a welcome event. Each visit, Dan, my acupuncturist would read
the multiple pulses on my wrists, look at my tongue and ask me a host of questions about my life and how I felt. Then he would go to work with my lying on his table in the supine position. He would read my pulses again after the treatment to make sure he got the intended result. I saw him once a week, and as the months rolled by, I felt so much better, looked better and liked myself better. That summer I had my picture made on Plexiglas by a computer etching method while I was on vacation in Estes Park, Colorado. I didn't wear my glasses and scrunched up my cheeks while smiling. I wore a cowboy hat I'd just bought in a western store and a jacket with epaulets. The result looked like some cowboy movie star. I gave the photos etched on Plexiglas away as Christmas presents. The woman who had changed my diapers when I was a baby wrote back. "Thanks for the picture. It is very nice, but who is it?" Love, Norma Paul Peter Finney D. Ac. practices Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology in Prairie Village. You may visit his website at www.finneyacu.com or reach him by phone at 913 649 0700.
Optimum Nutrition: Cooked or Raw?
By Susun S Weed Which is better: cooked food or raw? Taking nothing for granted or gospel, I set out to find out for myself the answer to this important question. First, I asked, what is meant by "raw food" and what is meant by "cooked food"? One cannot simply say that raw is uncooked, for there are raw food "cookbooks." Nor is cooking simply the application of heat through boiling, baking, or frying, as I soon discovered. Ripening is one form of natural cooking; others are described later. Second, I wondered, what did my ancestors eat? And was it raw or cooked? Third, I questioned, how do enzymes in foods affect digestion and health? And fourth, I attempted to sum it up—is there an advantage to cooking? The answers weren't as simple as one might expect, however. The answers to these questions combine in interesting ways, and open up other questions in their answering. To begin with the second question: Our most primitive ancestors, those who lived several million years ago, most likely ate raw food. The majority of what they ate was animal protein: muscle meats, organ meats, eggs, and insects. Present day examples of peoples who primarily eat raw animal protein include the Inuit of the far North and the Masai of Africa, known for their health and freedom from disease. Research done by Dr. Pottenger in the mid-twentieth century re-
vealed that raw meat and milk contained enzymes necessary for digestion. He showed that heat deactivated their enzymes. His conclusion was that raw meat, fish, milk and eggs provide more nutrients and are more easily digested. This is not true of plant foods, however. Vegetables and fruits do contain enzymes—if picked fully ripe—but their enzymes have no function in their own digestion, although papaya, pineapple and kiwi fruit contain enzymes that digest meat. Many plant enzymes interfere with digestion, so our bodies destroy them. Cooked food was the preference of most of our ancestors. Archaeologists have found evidence of fire in sites occupied by hominids as far back as a million years ago, but cannot say exactly when we began to use fire to cook food. Certainly by about ten thousand years ago, when cultivation of grains and beans—hard foods which absolutely require cooking—became widespread, our ancestors were regularly and routinely cooking their food. Is there an advantage to cooking? It depends on how we cook—or, more basically, how we define cooking—and whether we are eating animals or plants. Animal cells are surrounded by a membrane. This thin membrane is easily dissolved by digestive juices, releasing the nutrients stored in the cell. Fast, highheat cooking will toughen these membranes, thus slowing digestion and impairing nutrient uptake. For an illustration of this, think
of how tough an overcooked piece of meat can become; chewing, an important part of digestion, is much more difficult. Slow, low-heat cooking dissolves the membrane, making digestion and nutrient uptake much easier. If the idea of raw meat turns your stomach, eat soups and stews instead. Plant cells are surrounded by a wall. This wall is designed to resist breakage and to protect the stored nutrition in plant cells. Digestive juices act on the cell walls of plants little if at all; take a look in the toilet the day after next time you eat corn on the cob to see how true this is. Cooking, which can be expanded to include freezing, drying, sprouting, fermenting, and preserving in oil, breaks the cell wall and is necessary to liberate nutrients from plant cells. Cooked vegetables and fruits, grains, and beans provide more nutrients and are more easily digested than raw ones. A Haiku-like verse that could sum this up is: Chewing what is raw, how can one smile? Muscles of the jaw too tense. A macrobiotic diet, the only vegetarian diet shown to put cancer in remission, consists of cooked food exclusively. Around the world, wellcooked meat broths—think chicken soup—are the food of choice for convalescents. Cooked plants are far more nourishing than raw plants, whether we look at vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains or pulses (beans). Cooking not only breaks the cell wall, liberating minerals to our bodies, it actually enhances and activates many vitamins. This is true especially of the carotenes, used to make vitamin A, and other antioxidants in plants. Research found that the longer the corn is cooked and the hotter the temperature, the greater the amount of antioxidants in the corn. This also applies to vitamin C. A baked potato contains far more vitamin C than a raw potato. And sauerkraut (cabbage cooked by fermentation) contains up to ten times as much vitamin C as raw cabbage. Some vitamins do leach into cooking water. Cooking with little or no water (for instance, steaming
or braising) reduces vitamin loss in vegetables such as broccoli from 97 percent to 11 percent. Note, however, that the vitamins aren't lost or destroyed, but merely transferred to the cooking water. Using that water for soup stock, or drinking it, insures that you ingest all the nutrients, and in a highly absorbable form. Transferring nutrients into water, such as by making nourishing herbal infusions and healing soups, and then ingesting them is far more effective, in my experience, than wheat grass juice, green drinks, or any kind of nutritional supplement. It is, in fact, one of the best ways to optimally nourish oneself that I have found in three decades of paying attention to health. Even if some vitamins are lost in cooking, people absorb more of what is there from cooked foods. Several recent studies measured vitamin levels in the blood after eating raw and cooked vegetables. "Subjects who ate cooked veggies absorbed four to five times more nutrients than those who ate raw ones," reported researchers at the Institute of Food Research in 2003. There is no simple answer to the question "raw or cooked?" But for simplicity’s sake, I say, eat your food cooked. This is especially the case if you choose to eat a diet high in whole grains, beans, nuts, vegetables and fruit. That's the way I eat, so I cook most of my food. But I keep a herd of dairy goats so I can have raw milk, raw milk cheese, and raw milk yogurt. I do enjoy raw meat and raw fish on occasion, but more often slow cook my goat into barbeque, a special kind of healing "soup" I learned to make in Texas. The cook dances with the element fire. The cook stirs the cauldron. The cook transforms the parts and turns them into our whole. Blessings on the cook. Praise to the cook. May your food be well cooked. Susun is one of America's bestknown authorities on herbal medicine and natural approaches to women's health. Her four bestselling books are recommended by expert herbalists and well-known physicians and are used and cherished by millions of women around the world. Learn more at www.susunweed.com Evolving... 13 June 2009
A Holistic Approach to Healing Your Metabolism by Nancy Russell, M.D. What could be more important than good health? How do we define good health? How do we feel when we have good health? As a holistic physician, I believe to achieve optimal health, balancing all aspects of a person is the goal. The aspects that I evaluate are the physical body, the mind, the emotions and the spirit. In my mind, health equals balance; balance in all aspects of your life. Many of you may go to your physician because you are not feeling optimally well. Blood tests and physical examination do not reveal any abnormalities, so you are given a clean bill of health. If you complain that you feel tired a lot, stressed and can’t sleep well, what is the result? You may be told to eat healthier and exercise or you may be offered a prescription medication for depression. It is important to go a step deeper into your health challenges, get to the root of your issues and find your own individual formula for being optimally well. That is what I enjoy helping people do. I start by getting to know the individual one on, strive to get to the root of the problem and partner with them on their journey to optimal health. Who wants to be in good health? I want for you and for me to be optimally well, optimally healthy. If heath equals balance, where do you begin? Begin by healing your metabolism. A healthy metabolism is when your body can easily process the food you eat into fuel for each and every cell for your body to utilJune 2009 14
Evolving...
ize. There are five main factors that can influence your metabolism. These are five areas of your life to evaluate to begin the journey. The first is sleep and is very undervalued by most Americans. Optimal sleep goals include having a regular sleep schedule, sleep with
minimal interruptions and to be restful. In one sleep study, optimal sleep time was eight hours and 15 minutes! Some people need more and some less. Many of us are sleep deprived. Exercise is absolutely necessary to boost your metabolism and burn excess body fat. A minimum of 30 minutes 3 times a week is the standard recommendation and to be a combination of aerobic and resistance training or muscle building. Over-exercise such as marathon training or an exercise addiction can also impact metabolism. Nutrition plays a huge role in balancing the body and being optimally well. My overall recommendation is to eat more plant foods than animal foods, get plenty of
filtered water and avoid chemicals such as artificial sweeteners, preservatives, caffeine, alcohol and sugar. Sometimes I will recommend a 30-day trial off dairy and gluten foods to assess for a food sensitivity. Stress management is vital for metabolism as the digestive system, the immune system and the brain neurotransmitters all communicate with each other. Taking time to chill out or just be still for a few minutes of each day will go a long way towards healing your metabolism. Suggestions would be prayer time, meditation, yoga, relaxation breathing, journaling and listening to calming music.
If your metabolism is still not optimal with following the above steps, evaluation by your health care provider can be helpful. Assessing the endocrine system— thyroid, adrenal and sex hormones, as well as the brain neurotransmitters—is a place to start. These areas of your life are all important and it is difficult to achieve balance in all areas. The important first action is to start with small steps and have written goals with results that are quantifiable. Health is a process and perfection is not the goal. Striving for excellence has been helpful for me as I am not perfect. It is okay to go off your path for a while and then get back on or start a new path. A helpful process for me has been to be held accountable by another
person: a friend, spouse or your health care provider. When lifestyle changes are not having the effect in your life that you desire, supplements such as minerals, amino acids, homeopathy, herbs or even natural prescription strength hormones are available. As I partner with individuals in the evaluation of their metabolism and hormones, I use conventional and alternative testing methods. Blending conventional and alternative therapies can be accomplished effectively, but precautions are necessary. My training in both fields of medicine has brought many more treatment options and solutions to simple and complex health concerns. I may not have all the answers and I am aware of my limitations. Working with other health care providers is also helpful, such as chiropractic physicians, acupuncturists, massage therapists, and holistic nutrition consultants has proved beneficial and can work synergistically to optimize your health. . Nancy Russell M.D. is a 1978 graduate of the University of Missouri/ Kansas City School of Medicine. Dr. Russell blends traditional and alternative medicine in her holistic medical practice. She is a member of the American College of Physicians and the American Holistic Medical Association. She is a founding diplomat of the American Board of Holistic Medicine. Dr Russell has been a member of the Executive Board of the American Holistic Medical Association. Dr Russell was the 2003-2005 President of the Missouri State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts. To contact her Internal Medicine private practice at Combined Health Care Professionals, call 816-453-5545 or check out her website: www.drnancy.com. She is located at 5140 N. Antioch Road in the KC, MO northland.
Lifestyles of the Healthy and Harmonious
“We can greatly support a healthy state of mind by relaxation, reflection, forgiveness, and paying attention to our inner signals. “ By Becky Reed Our planet is going through changes, as reflected in the affairs of humankind and in natural occurrences. What is causing these changes concerns the evolutionary leap we are about to take. We are all feeling the effects. We are having growing pains. What can we do to be in harmony with this process and help it along? This is an excellent question because the more we are in harmony with this process, the easier it will be. Actually, the answer to the question is logical. If this is a planetary occurrence, it is a natural process. If it is a natural process then we and the earth are going through this together. If we are going through this with earth, we need to be in harmony with earth, and that includes our natural individual selves on all levels. Eating organic foods and using natural household products is essential to the healing and vitality of our bodies and the earth’s body. These things also carry a higher vibration. Toxic things are anti-life. Tipping the balance on our planet and in
our bodies from the danger zone to life-supporting requires us to choose food and other products grown or made without toxic chemicals whenever possible.
want to grow, but sometimes we don’t know how or we are too busy to think about it. So this aspect of being in harmony requires us to simplify, to become un-busy. It requires us to
“If we doggedly remain focused on material things to the exclusion of attending to our inner selves, we will not grow.” The other major consideration is our state of mind, our awareness. If we doggedly remain focused on material things to the exclusion of attending to our inner selves, we will not grow. I think we all
find out what is going on with us that we have not wanted to deal with, and to find out and enjoy what makes us feel happy, free, and at peace. This is a very interesting journey of self-discovery.
Along our path of selfdiscovery we have the opportunity to make changes. We can unburden ourselves of all the stuff we have been clinging to— physical, emotional and mental. We can greatly support a healthy state of mind by relaxation, reflection, forgiveness, and paying attention to our inner signals. We must learn to deal with things as they come up in a healthy compassionate way. There is a lot of help out there if we need it. Bookstores have large self-help sections, there are groups to join, and there are spiritual teachers and therapists. This spring, when our thoughts turn to new beginnings, it’s a great time to look at and love ourselves and begin to build a healthy, harmonious life. Becky Reed is a long-time student of Spirit who is helping individuals simplify their lives and get in touch with their spirits. You can email her at clearspace@earthlink.net or call 816-255-8685 and leave a message.
Evolving… 15 June 2009
Chi in the Martial Arts
by Scott Winokur Chi: What is it ? How do I get it? What do you do with it? Chi is the Bio-Electromagnetic energy and vital life force contained within everything in our universe. This energy is also called Ki, Prana, or even Kime, in different cultures, and from different countries. It is the essential element the keeps us alive. If the battery in a toy, Gameboy, or even cell phone runs out of energy the toy or cell phone stops working, the same applies to one’s Chi. Chi is like the concept that the spirit of GD is outside the body and the same spirit is also contained within. If the practitioner can project his or her chi outside the body, the chi is called external chi. If the practitioner’s chi flows freely inside the body in is called internal chi. With developed internal chi, one is not susceptible to injury, the body usually stays healthier and the chi flow may be directed by the practitioners will. Chi can be used by the individual to flush out toxins and ill—feelings inside or outside the body. Chi helps to maintain balance and the basic functions or the organs, thus inducing harmony. As the chi level of the practitioner increases, it relaxes and massages the organs. Chi can also strengthen and enhance the unique connection humans have with nature, raising one’s awareness to range from the Bio-Physical, to Metaphysical, to Quantum Physical levels, and beyond. Over the last 25-30 years many groups and scientists have investigated the effectiveness of Chi Kung (energy breathing exercises) for healing. Even the military, (Navy Seals, Rangers, Tactical Teams, even FBI), have invested time in Chi Kung/meditation, visualization training, and study of the brain under combat and stress situations. This study of the amygdala, the thumbnail size trigger that controls fear, and panic, can be controlled by meditation and visualization techniques. Scientists have also conducted many studies on how chi helps Cancer, AIDS, and other ailments. Many HospiJune 2009 16 Evolving…
tals, Universities, and private or government funded programs continue to investigate the future uses of human energy systems. The way this mysterious force works is through breathing (Chi Kung-energy breathing exercises), one gets oxygen charged red blood cells in the bloodstream enhancing metabolism and many other things you never even think about. But it is the ions in the red blood cell that do the real work. Through internal or external training (especially internal), the ions get excited and become more active, hence the circulation is increased. In external training the heart rate will rise, but with internal training the heart rate only rises slightly, much less than with
“As the chi level increases, it relaxes and massages the organs.” external training. Only when the person is in harmony will the heart rate and body regulations be met. When doing Chi Kung (energy raising/breathing techniques), the heart rate should only rise slightly, one should be relaxed and connected. To understand some of these principles we look at Chinese Medicine and we learn that it is the chi, not the heart that regulates blood circulation. Many people have harnessed the energy of chi, and practice it in many forms such as Tai Chi, Chi Kung, Wing Chun, White Willow, as well as many
types of martial arts, and religious practices. Most martial arts, yoga, and pilates have some type of Chi, Ki, Prana training either external or internal, however the use of chi or energy is not limited to martial arts. For example, acupuncture stimulates and or regulates the chi flow inside the body. A simple explanation of how you can cultivate chi is that one must be of good moral character and ethical behavior. One must learn to focus attention and become sensitive, and more aware of surroundings. One must also align oneself with the universe. To do this one must use the big Yin-Yang (the harmony of the external environment) to line up one’s own small Yin-Yang (within oneself). To achieve harmony within, meditation and guided imagery will begin to still the conscious level mind, allowing the sub-conscious mind (intuitive mind) to awaken, thus connecting sub-conscious mind to the super-conscious mind (divine mind) opening the possibilities. At these next levels one can really begin to focus on utilizing the the emotions by interjecting the intellect or super-conscious mind. Through all of this process, one has balanced, focused attention, and learned to still and control their emotions (pride, aggression, fear) as well as have more control over stressful situations. The light of knowledge, wisdom and understanding can then permeate the entire essence of the individual.
For more information on this or other subject contact Scott Winokur at Midwest Chinese Martial Arts Center www.kungfukc.com or email to eightanimalkungfu@yahoo.com or call 816-444-4777 or 913-648-7776. P.O. Box 8401, KC, MO 64114.
Spiritual Horoscope
horoscopes
for June by Aluna Michaels, M.A.
GEMINI
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
spirituality for you! Are you eating
organic, non-processed food even if
out of you. By living in your soul, you’re
– Happy birthday Gemini!
healthy meals at regular times? Do you
you don’t need to lose weight. Meditate
making this planet a better place!
Its’ a great time to think
get enough rest? Do you schedule
daily even if you feel bored. You’ll de-
about
goals.
breaks during the day or do you swamp
velop a quiet but unstoppable inner
What action steps have
your
life
yourself with needless tasks and er-
power. This true, consistent energy is
you been taking? If they haven’t been
rands? Do you catch yourself obsessing
based in your soul and not your ego.
crease
successful, don’t be afraid to try new
and worrying? Discipline in these areas
You’ll have many valuable insights in
Imagine a vast ocean of
methods to manifest your vision. Com-
will help you feel more centered, suc-
this state of mind!
abundance that never runs
mit to daily meditation or creative visu-
cessful and “authentically spiritual.”
– Use meditation to inyour
prosperity.
dry, no matter how many
alization. Pay attention to your dreams, since you could get signals from your
Aries (March 21 – April 19) ARIES
CAPRICORN
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan.
people take from it. When you’re anx-
19) – You could be start-
ious, your intuition shuts down. Relax-
with
ing a new relationship, or
ing into these spiritual ideas opens
issues of sexuality and
rekindling the romance in
your mind to creative money solutions.
intimacy. Journal about
a
connection.
You’ll also improve your self-esteem,
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) –
past romantic situations.
Enjoy the feeling of being
since you’ll be more present to loved
Work on healing issues of
Where do you feel re-
in love – expand the en-
ones. Closeness will raise your confi-
trust in close relationships.
gretful for not being open? Or too
ergy to other areas of life. Be physically
dence and help you move forward with
You might not realize how
open? Do you have romantic fantasies
active and playful. Spend more time
your new goals!
many
people
that are impossible for any partner to
with kids. Surround yourself with art
can come into your life until you let go
live up to? Are you hard on yourself for
and music. If you’ve been anxious
of past wounds. Fill your life with peo-
not being the “perfect” spouse or lover?
about finances, meditate on the abun-
ple who are interested in different
You are ruled by Venus, the planet of
dance of love and pleasure in your life.
fidence with harmonious
things and have a new outlook on life
love. Meditate and get in touch with
Focusing on bliss will attract prosper-
Venus and adventurous
than what you’re used to. As a Cancer,
this divine energy. Let it flow through
ous opportunities!
Mars in your sign! What
if things feel safe and comfortable, they
you naturally, rather than intellectual-
often keep you stuck in the same pat-
izing it or forcing it!
soul that will get you where you want to
LIBRA
go! CANCER
wonderful
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) –
You’re dealing
terns. Breaking free could mean feeling
20) – You’re full of con-
kind of bold changes AQUARIUS
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb.
and new beginnings can you make?
18) – Focus on grati-
Expand beyond your self-imposed lim-
tude. You have such a
its! You’ll attract new people who want
21) – If you’re in a rela-
brilliant and inventive
to help you shape your life into your
tionship, it’s a great time
mind that you’re always
dreams. It may seem silly, but getting
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) –
to talk about unspoken
seeing
solu-
some sort of makeover can create a
It’s a great time to get
expectations that can be
tions that would make your life better.
new mind set that allows all of this to
recognition
or
holding you back as a
But then you end up overlooking all the
happen.
even to hear about a better
couple. Let go of old
amazing features in your world. Medi-
job that will be excited
resentments, misunderstandings and
tate on each great person and situation
SCORPIO
sign!!
at
work,
creative
about your talents! Enjoy
secrets. This new openness will bring a
you can think of. Really feel joy and let
the prosperity and acclaim—you de-
deeper closeness. If single, meditate on
it expand in your mind. You’ll feel alive
serve it! The trick this month is balanc-
how you hold back information about
from within in a new way. This can lead
ing your career and personal life. Make
your feelings from others. Being ready
to greater self-esteem, prosperity and
sure you’re addressing unresolved is-
to trust more deeply can attract a new
harmony in your home and work place.
sues with your partner and don’t hide
mate. Also, you’ll have healing oppor-
behind your good fortune. If single,
tunities with family that will help open
reflect on ways you can be an even
your heart.
better romantic partner and you’ll start SAGITARIUS
PISCES
in Spiritual Counseling and has been
20) – Speak and think
teaching and consulting for more than
of
love
toward
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 –
yourself. It isn’t spiritual
Dec. 21) – How kind are
to
you to your body? Sagit-
strengths.
- You’re probably dedi-
tarians can be into ex-
conceited if you know your soul’s gifts.
cated
treme sports and thrill
Let your personality be a vessel that
practices like meditation
seeking. Challenge your-
allows your higher self to express! Let
or yoga. But don’t forget
self by not living on the edge for
go of your fear of attracting attention.
that, as a Virgo, kindness
awhile. Take the gentle yoga class
People are actually responding to the
toward yourself is a crucial part of
rather than high powered yoga. Eat
energy of the Universe that is pouring
your
spiritual
astrologer and soul evolutionist
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) to
Aluna Michaels is a second-generation practitioner. She also holds a Masters
words
attracting better matches!
VIRGO
Taurus (April 20 – May TAURUS
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov.
anxious, but don’t take that as a bad
LEO
current
downplay You’re
your not
two decades. Aluna is available for appointments in her home or by phone. Call (248) 583-1663 or visit www.alunamichaels.com
June 2009
17
Evolving…
parts of ourselves, and to reconciliation . 3:00
Lady: “Using God’s Tools to Enhance Your Life”
June 15
- 5:00 p.m., $9. Register with Communiversity
Kathleen Andersen, Leadership Developer:
LOVE THE BODY YOU HAVE AND HAVE
online or (816) 235-1448. Nancy Blair Moon
“Tune IN your Awareness for Life Changing
THE BODY YOU LOVE
EVENT LISTINGS:
convener. www.nancyblairmoon.net
Results” Jackie Melena, Author, Advocate and
Starting date: 6/15/09 and each consecutive
E-mail jill@evolvingmagazine.com. $18 for 25 words. $.25 a word over 25.
June 9-11
Cancer Survivor: “Using the Power of the Mind
Monday for four weeks. Invest in yourself
to Heal ” Contact: Kathleen Andersen, Lead-
for four weeks, and you will see and feel a
events
Breath & Relaxation Workshop
June 2
Everyday Yoga; 1519 SW State HWY 7, Blue
Insight Meditation Group
Springs, MO. www.myeverydayyoga.com
6:30pm-8pm Newly formed group meets first
816-809-9574
Tuesday of the month to learn and support this spiritual practice. House of Menuha. 801 E. 77th St., KCMO 64131.Suggested Offering $15-$25 per session. Scholarships available. www.menuha.org. information@menuha.org. 816.444.2434.
June 11 RECLAIMING YOUR LIFE AFTER LOSS Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. Sometimes life deals us blows that can feel enormous. Join us for a weekly candlelight meditation with live music by Johnny Ricker as we create a sacred
ership Developer; 816-903-2086
difference. This four week course will use
www.kathleenandersen.lifesuccessconsultants.com;
meditation, visualization, and word medicine
Fran The Angel Lady: www.faithworks2005.org
to help you create a new relationship with the
816-359-2616
body and the higher self. We will use simple
June 13 & 14 Beginner’s Yoga This is a great class for students or teachers who want to deepen their kowleege of all aspects of yoga. Everyday Yoga; 1519 SW State HWY 7, Blue Springs, MO.
June 4
space of deep peace that you can access any-
Quantum Metaphysics Study Group
time you choose. Learn skills to reclaim a life
Quantum Metaphysics learning new and sci-
of fearless joy. $10 suggested donation. Unity
June 14th
entific ways to heal your life and body. We
Temple on the Plaza, www.unitytemple.com
Yoga Fix Studio presents:
meet from 6-7:30 on the first Thursday of
No enrollment required. For questions, con-
Laughter Yoga Workshop
each month. The address is 504 E 112th on the
tact Delight Davis at bandwoman@aol.com or
Fun for the Whole Family! Sunday, 2 pm. - 3
south side of Red Bridge Shopping Center. If
913-369-2738.
pm. Fee: Adults $10 and Children $8 913-384
you plan to attend, email me at jcrotchett@att.net June 6
www.myeverydayyoga.com 816-809-9574
-3200 or www.HotYogaKC.com
June 12—14
dietary, exercise and thought pattern changes to create a more balanced and healthy life. $75 for four weeks. Unity Temple on the Plaza, www.unitytemple.com Enrollment required. Contact Delight Davis at bandwoman@aol.com or 913-369-2738. June 16 THE BIG CHILL Meditation to Banish Stress Tuesdays , 7-9 p.m. Come and relax with us for a weekly meditation with accompanying live music by Johnny Ricker. We will suggest simple skills to reduce stress and provide relief for anxiety. $10 suggested donation Unity Temple on the Plaza,
Sacred Space, Urban Grace
June 14
Reconnecting Spirit of Place with People of
RUMI: Poet of the Heart
www.unitytemple.com No enrollment re-
Shades of Wonder
Soul. A Heartfelt Mentorship in Ritual Sha-
Rumi says "I see my beauty in you. I become a
quired. For questions, contact Delight Davis
2:00 pm at Pioneer Bluffs. Expect to experi-
manism for the Eco Spiritual Revitalization of
mirror that cannot close its eyes to your long-
at bandwoman@aol.com or 913-369-2738.
ence shades of wonder on the prairie during
Civil Society, with Master Ceremonialist don
ing." We will watch and discuss an artistically
this walk with nature. There is no fee to attend
Oscar Miro-Quesada. June 12-14th KCMO.
satisfying DVD with Rumi's foremost transla-
a community event at Pioneer Bluffs. Pioneer
Free Ceremony for the community Saturday
ter, Coleman Barks. Also features Robert Bly,
Bluffs is on Flint Hills Scenic Byway, K-177,
June 13th from 2PM to 6Pm at Theis Park.
Michael Meade, Huston Smith, Deepak Cho-
one mile north of Matfield Green. June 7 Movie Screening Dr. Wayne Dyer’s There’s a Spiritual Solution to
For more information contact Carol Rydell
pra, Jai Uttal and Hamza El Din. 3:00-5:00
816-213-3999 also: chaupinsuyu@gmail.com
p.m., $9. Register with Communiversity
and www.chaupinsuyu.org
online or (816) 235-1448. Nancy Blair Moon, convener, www.nancyblairmoon.net
June 12
June 16 & 30 Befriend Your Shadow 6:30pm-8:30 pm Discover ways to reclaim aspects of yourself that have been pushed aside in order to live up to expectations of others or unrealistic self-expectations. House of Menuha. 801 E. 77th St., KCMO 64131. Marlene Wine Chase, Facilitator. Suggested Offering $15-$25/session. Scholarships avail-
Every Problem. This DVD features interna-
Enlighten Up!
June 14
tionally acclaimed author and lecturer Dr.
View the movie premiere at Tivoli. See back
Movie Screening: The Celestine Prophecy
able. www.menuha.org. informa-
Based on James Redfield's worldwide best-
tion@menuha.org. 816.444.2434.
Wayne W. Dyer, who shows you how you can
page for details.
find a “spiritual solution to every problem.”FREE, gratuity appreciated; Like a Day at the Beach 11032 Quivira 913-327-3938; www.likeadayatthebeach.com
selling novel, The Celestine Prophecy is a spiri-
June 12
tual adventure film chronicling the discovery
Yoga for Health Everyday Yoga; 1519 SW State HWY 7, Blue Springs, MO. www.myeverydayyoga.com
June 7
816-809-9574
of ancient scrolls in the rainforests of Peru. FREE, gratuity appreciated; Like a Day at the Beach 11032 Quivira 913-327-3938; www.likeadayatthebeach.com
Dancing with Dreams
June 17 Age Is Just A Number! 11:30 am-1:00 pm Share Jan Winston’s journey of rejuvenation of mind, body & spirit at age 66. She started her own business at 59 and has won triathlon medals at 65. Authentic
Freud called dreams the "royal road to the
June 13
June 15-17
Women Luncheon Series. House of Menuha.
unconscious," and Jung said if we knew what
Know Your Worth
Advanced Yoga Workshop
801 E. 77th St., KCMO 64131.
the dream meant, we wouldn't need to have
11:00 to 2:00pm LITE LUNCH will be
Everyday Yoga; 1519 SW State HWY 7, Blue
$20 www.menuha.org. informa-
Springs, MO. www.myeverydayyoga.com
tion@menuha.org. 816.444.2434.
it! Language and cultural expectations frag-
served. $150; Unity Church (Charles Fillmore
ment us, and the fragments long to return
Chapel) 816-561-4466; 707 W 47 Street
home. Dreams offer us access to exiled
Kansas City, MO Featuring: Fran The Angel
Evolving… 18 June 2009
th
816-809-9574
June 20
events
Summer Solstice Ceremony at White Deer Lodge Please join us for this free community event
clarity on how her views on self-esteem,
on Saturday June 20th from 1:00 PM to 4:00
abundance, and the metaphysical causes
PM as we welcome this powerful time of
behind physical ailments were developed. A
change in our seasons and our lives. Enjoy
number of luminaries in the fields of self-
the beauty of the natural world as we co cre-
help and health and spirituality and new
ate ceremony and ritual to honor this time on
thought—including Doreen Virtue, Gregg
the planet and in our hearts. For more infor-
Braden, Wayne W. Dyer, Gay Hendricks,
mation and directions contact Daniel Baxley
Esther and Jerry Hicks, Leon Nacson, Dr.
816-769-7343. www.shamanicpathways.net
Christiane Northrup, Dr. Candace B. Pert, Cheryl Richardson, Dr. Mona Lisa Schulz,
June 21st
and many others share their personal stories
Movie Screening
about Louise’s impact on their lives. Admis-
The Legend of Bagger Vance A disillusioned war veteran, Captain Rannulph Junah, reluctantly agrees to play a game of golf. He finds the game futile until his caddy, Bagger Vance, teaches him the secret of the authentic golf stroke which turns out also to be the secret to mastering any challenge and finding meaning in life. Starring Matt Damon, Will Smith and Charlize Theron. FREE, gratuity appreciated; Like a Day at the Beach 11032 Quivira 913-327-3938; www.likeadayatthebeach.com June 22 A Complimentary Introduction to Holistic Nutrition Class will be held Monday June 22 at 10:30 a.m. and a second class at 6:30 p.m. at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St in Overland Park. Come and hear an informative presentation by Nutrition Coach Karen Manley Duggan. Come and learn about how to make eating healthy whole foods a part of your daily life. To register for this event call 913-706-4436 or visit www.bodykarebykaren.com. June 25 Prairie Talk: Addie of the Flint Hills 6:30 pm Adaline Rogler Sorace will share stories of growing up in the Flint Hills during the 1920's and 1930's. Her book, Addie of the Flint Hills, will be published in late June. Adaline will be visiting Kansas from her home in New York.There is no fee to attend a community event at Pioneer Bluffs.
Photo provided by Everyday Yoga in Blue Springs, MO. www.myeverydayyoga.com
sion is FREE, Donation to Hay Foundation, greatly appreciated; Like a Day at the Beach 11032 Quivira
Pioneer Bluffs is on Flint Hills Scenic By-
and the higher self. Invest in yourself for a
913-327-3938;
way, K-177, one mile north of Matfield
weekend, and you will see and feel the differ-
www.likeadayatthebeach.com
Green. It lies on the east side of K-177 and
ence. We will use meditation and simple
has a distinctive limestone fence.
dietary, exercise and thought pattern
July 26
changes for a more balanced and healthy life.
Yoga Fix Studio presents:
June 25—27
$175 for weekend, $90 for Saturday
Laughter Yoga Workshop - Fun for the
Your Healing is In Sight!
only (Food included. We will prepare
Whole Family!
Learn from renowned iridologist, Teri
healthy vegetarian meals together) THE
Sunday, 2 pm. - 3 pm.
Rounds, how your eyes hold the keys to dis-
LIGHT CENTER, www.LightCenter.info
Fee: Adults $10 and Children $8
covering your true health. A fascinating pres-
Enrollment required: Contact Delight Davis
913-384-3200 or www.HotYogaKC.com
entation on reading the unique markings and
at bandwoman@aol.com or 913-369-2738.
changes in the eyes to help you see your way to healing. 7:30 pm Thursday evening pres-
August 22 June 28th
3rd Annual Yoga in the Park!
entation/Q&A, followed by Reception.
Workshop
a benefit for the Humane Society of Greater
Tickets $10. Call (816) 994-8009 for Private
Louise Hay’s Receiving Prosperity
Kansas City and Harvesters
Appointments on Friday 10am-8pm or Sat-
Our audience will work along with the film
Saturday August 22nd at Mill Creek Park
urday 9am-6pm. Presented by Cornerstone
audience on exercises to facilitate our allow-
913-384-3200 or www.HotYogaKC.com
Foundation at Unity Temple, 707 W 47th
ing of the good we desire in our lives. After
presented by Yoga Fix Studio
St, KCMO. Tickets available at The Bird
the film, work with the group or one on one
Sings Card & Gift Store at Unity.
with our facilitators to discuss your own issues, questions and concerns. Workshop fee
June 27
is $10. RSVP; Like a Day at the Beach
Yoga Fix Studio presents:
11032 Quivira 913-327-3938;
Fun with Hula Hoops- Fun for the Whole
www.likeadayatthebeach.com
Family! Saturday, 1:30 pm. - 3 pm.
July 5th
Fee: TBD; 913-384-3200 or
Movie Screening
www.HotYogaKC.com
Louise Hay’s You Can Heal Your Life, the movie
June 27-28
This entertaining and inspirational movie
YOUR BODY AS A SANCTUARY FOR
hosted by best-selling author Louise L. Hay
THE SOUL
and directed by Emmy award winner Mi-
Spend a nurturing weekend in na-
chael Goorjian gives penetrating insights into
ture learning to reconnect with the body
her fascinating life story; and also provides
Event Listings $18 for the first 25 words; $.25 a word over 25. Email listing to jill@evolvingmagazine.com. All events are due by the 15th of the month prior to publication.
June 2009
19
Evolving…
Evolving is a free-distribution publication with an estimated 30,000 readers throughout the Kansas City Metro. Each issue is packed with articles on self-help, spirituality, quantum science, book reviews, health and wellness, law of attraction, local events and so much more. In addition, it’s an outlet for individuals to share their stories of growth, empowerment and hope. Join us on-line at www.evolvingmagazine.com. Relevant features and departments
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