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DECEMBER 2009 JANUARY 2010DECEMBER 2009 JANUARY 2010

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Contents 3 green pages4 balanced holidays22 happenings in the valley

HEALING FOODS

6 Naturally Delicious A Brief Summary of Natural Sweeteners

8 SPICE OF LIFE

GOOD EARTH

10 Winter Green

REJUVENATE

12 Moisturize with Omegas 13 Organic Beauty

HEALTHY FAMILY

14 Holiday Harmony with Feng Shui16 Holistic Dentistry The Missing Piece to Your Health Puzzle?

HEALING PATHS

18 5 Tips for Stress Relief around the Holidays19 The Next Five Years20 Tired of Being Sick and Tired?

Offi ce:1927 Ohm AvenueEau Claire, Wisconsin 54701715.831.0325www.asecondopinionmag.com

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief:Arwen RasmussenManaging Editor:Jennifer QuinlanCopy Editor: Rebecca GorskiStaff Writers:Heather Rothbauer-WanishDiane WolfeGraphic Design: Kathy NelsonAdvertising:Jennifer Quinlan 715.637.5579Editor@asecondopinionmag.com

Distribution:Baldwin, Amery, Luck, Glenwood City, Hammond, Hudson, New Richmond, River Falls, St. Croix, St Paul, Stillwater

All articles are the sole property of the writers. Opinions expressed in Second Opinion are the opinions of the writers or advertisers themselves, not the publication or its editors. Second Opinion is not liable for use of any artwork pro-vided by advertisers. Please direct concerns to the advertisers.

EDITOR’S NOTE:Welcome to the fi rst issue of the St. Croix Valley area Second Opinion. We are so very excited to bring you local news, tips, and advice from practitioners and businesses right in your neighbor-hood. The seasons have changed and winter is in the air. In the midst of the stress, chaos, and (sometimes) illness that comes with the season, we hope that this issue helps to heal and calm you. Each one of us has to remember to stop, breathe, and take some “me” time. We all have decorations to put up, scores of recipes to sort through, days of planning, and hours of baking to do, but we also have to remember that we need our own time too. I know that you’re a mom or dad or grandma or grandpa, but you are also you. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in making everyone else’s holidays so great that we forget to make ourselves happy. So fi nd that sofa, or cup of tea, or yoga class and take some time to search within yourself, to make yourself happy. We hope that our stress reducers and cold weather soothers keep you and your families happy and healthy during this potentially stressful season.Happy Holidays to Everyone!

--Arwen Rasmussen, Editor

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“Road to Opportunities”Midwest Value Added Agriculture Con-ference and WI Local Food Summit

The 4th annual Wisconsin Local Food Summit will be held in conjunction with the 12th annual Midwest Value Added Agriculture Conference on Thursday and Friday, January 21st and 22nd, 2010. “Road to Opportunities” is the theme for the upcoming Summit & Confer-ence, which brings together value added farmers and advocates of local food. One registration allows you to participate in both events, which will take place at the Ramada Hotel and Convention Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Will Allen, CEO of Growing Power will be the featured speaker on Thursday morning. Allen has over fi fty years of experience farming, marketing, and dis-tributing food. The featured speaker on Thursday evening will be Michael Perry, author, humorist, and amateur pig farmer. His most recent book is titled Coop: A Year of Poultry, Pigs and Parenting. Friday morning’s featured speaker will be Melinda Hemmelgarn, registered di-etician, freelance journalist, and speaker. Her popular “Food Sleuth” newspaper columns help people “think beyond their plates.”

The Wisconsin Local Food Network is sponsoring events for students, includ-ing a poster display and writing contest. Wisconsin college students or student groups can submit posters that highlight local food projects, including organic and sustainable agriculture projects, food se-curity and consumer research, economic and environmental benefi t studies, and more. Undergraduate students are invited to participate in the writing contest by submitting poems, short stories, and creative essays that celebrate food, agri-culture, and local communities. For more information about the poster display and writing contest, contact Tracey Mofl e at tracey.mofl e@uwc.edu.

New this year, the Value Added Agri-culture College will offer seven half- and full-day in-depth sessions on a wide vari-ety of topics on Wednesday January 20th. It provides a great opportunity to expand your farm and business knowledge while networking at the same time! For more

information, or to download and print the registration brochure, visit the website at www.rivercountryrcd.org/valad.html or email River Country Resource Conserva-tion and Development at rivercountry@rivercountryrcd.org.

Announcing Healing Waters QiGong Center in Downtown Hudson

Healing Waters, the new Holistic Cen-ter in downtown Hudson, is excited to announce their grand opening that took place in September 2009. Owner Denise Gunderson is a Master Healer and Certi-fi ed Spring Forest QiGong Instructor. She is no stranger to the St. Croix Valley area, living within a mile of the river all her life, currently residing in Somerset. Denise has been a Holistic Practitioner in the area for 23 years, most recently practicing out of the Hudson Wellness Center. “It is time for me to stand alone and create a center where others can learn, heal, and release stress in a quiet, safe environment,” says Denise.

The center offers private one-on-one sessions for individuals looking for alter-native holistic solutions to their well-be-ing. Current classes offered at the center include: The Map of the Body, QiGong Instruction and Practice, Trusting Your Intuition, and Magic of the Moment Meditation. Healing Waters QiGong Center offers a natural and rejuvenating experience that encompasses mind, body, and spirit – and more! www.healingwa-tersqigong.com

Indigo Iris Natural Food Store

Back in August 2003, Steve Ramin and his wife Brenda were both teach-ing school. Upon both getting laid off, his wife suggested opening a daycare center or pre-school. Somehow the idea morphed—drastically—into a health food store. She designed it, and Steve built it. The idea was he would go back to teaching and she’d run the store. Shortly thereafter, she decided she liked shopping at health food stores, but not running one. Steve agreed to take things over and has been running the show ever since.

What makes Indigo Iris unique? Some

say it’s their incredible bulk section. Oth-ers claim it’s the nice selection of gluten/wheat/dairy-free items or the yummy dried cherries that can be so hard to fi nd. Steve says, “Everyone has their own little niche. Ultimately we only carry what customers ask for – so if there’s some-thing you want and we don’t have it, just ask.”

Besides being totally customer-driven, Ramin also tries to run a sustainable, green business. Limiting waste is one of their biggest focuses. They avoid using plastics, focusing on glass instead; avoid using grocery bags (urging customers to bring their own or purchase the oh-so-popular chico bags); and encourage bulk purchasers to bring their own contain-ers from home to fi ll. “We try to be as green as we can,” Steve explains. “In the bulk section, we tell them to bring their Tupperware or their spice jars and fi ll them up here. We also ask customers to save their empty jelly or pickle jars to be reused. Why use plastic bags that will get thrown away when you can put those bulk items in clean, reused glass jars?” You’ll fi nd your traditional bulk grains, granola, cereals, nuts, dried fruits, etc. at Indigo Iris. But you’ll also fi nd bulk shampoo and conditioner, olive oil, honey, molasses, soy sauce, vanilla, and maple syrup. “Bring your own container and fi ll up,” Steve says.

Supporting the local economy also matters to Ramin. “We stick to as many local products as possible,” he explains. “We bring in as much local consignment items as we can as well: we have birch bark baskets from a local artist, cloth bas-kets and heat packs from The Hermitage, and much more.” When there’s not a lo-cal option, Ramin tries to go with ethical businesses and organic offerings. They cater to a lot of specialty items, includ-ing some of those hard-to-fi nd foods, an organic supplement line, essential oils, and organic personal care items.

Regardless of what you fi rst come to Indigo Iris for, chances are you’ll be back. Enjoy a complimentary cup of cof-fee or tea while you shop, some yummy home-baked cookies, and a friendly ap-proach every time. Hours: 9-6 M-F, 9-4 Sat.; www.indigoirismarket.com.

GREEN PAGES...DEDICATED TO BEING NATURAL, GREEN, ORGANIC, AND LOCAL

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Balanced holidaysTips and ideas for a healthy and balanced life

Give the Gift of HopeThis year give a gift of generosity and

compassion; they keep on giving long after the tree is down.

Heifer International (www.heifer.org): Help fi ght hunger and poverty when you buy your child or someone else you love a llama ($150), goat or pig ($120), or a fl ock of chicks, ducks, or geese ($20). Through Heifer International, your animal gift will be given to a needy family in a developing nation. Your gift’s impact increases when the recipients pass on their gift by offering their animal’s offspring to another struggling family.

Kiva (ww.Kiva.org): Kiva’s mission is to

connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. Kiva is the world’s fi rst person-to-person micro-lending web site, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs around the globe. It’s a loan that changes lives.

ASPCA (www.aspca.org): The ASPCA works to rescue animals from abuse, pass humane laws, and share resources with shel-ters nationwide. Donate today or adopt a new friend. Don’t let an innocent animal become just another statistic.

Women for Women International (www.womenforwomen.org): Provides women sur-vivors of war, civil strife, and other confl icts

with the tools and resources to move from crisis and poverty to stability and self-suffi -ciency, thereby promoting viable civil societ-ies. They’re changing the world one woman at a time.

St. Jude’s Childrens Research Hospital (www.stjude.org): St. Jude is unlike any other pediatric treatment and research facility. Dis-coveries made here have completely changed how the world treats children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. With research and patient care under one roof, St. Jude is where some of today’s most gifted researchers are able to do science more quickly. Help a child today. What if it was your son or daughter?

Enjoy a Green HolidayThe Holidays are here: there is a chill in the air, snow

on the ground (hopefully), and you can hear the cash reg-isters ringing. While the holidays bring out the best in us when it comes to treating each other, it is a different story when it comes to Mother Earth. Christmas is actually an environmentalist’s biggest nightmare. We have mountains of garbage, trees that must be disposed of, and tons of fl ashing lights and blow up lawn ornaments that are using up energy. But with a bit of thinking and tweaking, we can make this Christmas more eco-friendly for each other and the environment.

Giving Green: Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, Americans throw away a million extra tons [900,000 metric tons] of garbage each week, including holiday wrapping and packaging, according to Robert Lilienfeld. Lilienfi eld is co-author of the book, Use Less Stuff: Environmental Solutions for Who We Really Are.

Gift Wrapping: So why not recycle holiday gift wrap or ribbon? If every family reused only two feet of holiday ribbon, the amount saved—38,000 miles—could circle the Earth. And not all gifts need wrapping. Instead of buying the 900th pair of socks for mom, why not give her a massage or “I’ll make three dinners” gift certifi -

cates. I am guessing she will enjoy those experi-ences better and you’ll be saving on paper and adornments. It’s a win-win situation. Plus, the best part of holidays is supposed to be spend-ing time with your family and friends.

Tree Recycling: Holidays wouldn’t be the same without that sparkly, festive tree in the living room. But what to do in Janu-ary when the tree is starting to lose its needles all over the house? Why not recycle your tree?

Recycling fresh trees after Christ-mas can make a huge difference in reducing holiday waste. Instead of taking up space in the landfi ll, trees can be ground into wood chips, which can be used to mulch gardens or parks or to prevent erosion at a local watershed. To fi nd a place that recycles Christmas trees near you, visit www.earth911.org.

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Relax and Breathe.

We all know that the stress during the holidays can mount. So when you are hit-ting the thrid glass of eggnog and over-dosing on homemade fudge, be relieved that their is a better, more sane solution. A new study from the Warwick Olfaction Research Group in England offers that simply smelling certain fragrances has a stress-reducing effect on the brain that’s similar to food and even some mood-altering drugs. “Some scents can trigger your pituitary gland to release hormones specifi c to easing many health-related ailments,” says Michael Finkelstein, MD, a holistic physician in Westchester, New York. Reasons to sniff this season:

Vanilla is a very calming scent because it boosts the serotonin levels in the brain like comfort foods. Great for the frazzled.

Try It: Burn a vanilla-scented candle, or inhale the aroma of vanilla beans.

Lavender contains linalool, a substance that blocks the stress response in the body and relaxes the muscles. Perfect for sore, tense muscles..

Try It: Add six drops of lavender oil to your moisturizing lotion.

Peppermint causes our capillaries to constrict and dilate which sends a rush of blood through the body giving us ener-gized oxygen.

Try It: Place a few drops of peppermint oil on a cotton ball, and attach it to an air vent in your car.

MORE: Olive: When you get exhausted and stressed out, olive raises your self-aware-ness as it rejuvenates your body and mind. Elm: For those who are overwhelmed by responsibility, elm puts problems into perspective and restores the ability to prioritize.Mimulus: During shopping season, mimu-lus can alleviate worries over money, enabling you to gain control of your fi nances.

Eco-Holiday

PartyIf You Don’t Have

Enough Dishes for Everyone

Instead of the ordinary disposable dinnerware, try using plastic plates from Recycline, who makes them from old yogurt contain-ers. And to discourage guests from leaving glasses everywhere, give everyone a stylish drinking glass as a party favor. You leave it, you lose it.

If You Want a More Sustainable Alternative to Flowers

Head to the store to pick up gourds, squash, little apples and pears, whole nuts in their shells, and pome-granates. They look great on a table, and when the party is over, you can eat the centerpiece.

If You Prepare Too Much Food

Cook with smaller portions in mind. Instead of 6 ounces of protein per person, prepare 3 to 4. For dessert, a pie that would normally feed 8 will serve 16. If you still have leftovers, host a leftover party for friends, where ev-eryone brings the remnants of their respective feasts. Then you can vote on whose leftover was the best.

Bring home the scent of the holiday — naturally.Oh, remember the holidays past when you were little? Bows in

your hair, new tights, a new dress, and of course candy canes. Nothing made me happier than whittling a candy cane to a fi ne

point while being completely oblivious of the holiday bustle around me. This season, use Aura Cacia's Candy Cane Aromatherapy Mist ($7;

auracacia.com). It stands out for its clean scent of peppermint, sweet orange, spearmint, wintergreen, and vanilla essential oil —

perfect for conjuring up memories or freshening a room for a grown-up holiday party.

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The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads— Clement Clarke Moore

“Attend to the little one who holds onto your hand.”— From the Epic of Gilgamesh

Children Peep into Christmas Windowsby Patricia Wickman

Clement Clarke Moore captured the ideal Christmas scene in his famous poem “Twas the Night

Before Christmas:” snuggly beds, children, kerchiefs, sleighs, reindeer, Santa, and of course, sugar plums. There is no denying that the holidays are inseparable from in-dulgence in the sweet taste. This phenome-non makes perfect sense from the perspec-

tive of Ayurveda, a holistic medical science from India. Ancient Ayurvedic texts explain the concept of Rasa, or taste, and how the six tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent affect our body, mind and spirit. Of the six tastes, sweet is the most nourishing. It represents the fi rst taste we had as infants and is related to love and nurturing. It creates a feeling of satisfaction

and assists the mind in developing endur-ance against stress. It reduces judgment, anger, and anxiety. Eaten in moderation, sweet foods enhance strength, longevity, and stability.

According to Ayurveda, the sweet taste includes foods such as milk, butter, grains, meat, nuts, sweet fruits, dates, maple syrup, honey, sugar, and other sweeteners. It

HEALING FOOD

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Sugar Plums Modifi ed from Saveur

Magazine

• 2 c whole, organic almonds

• ¼ c raw honey• 2 t grated orange zest• 1 ½ t ground cinna-

mon• ½ t ground allspice• ½ t freshly grated

nutmeg• 1 c dried organic

apricots (beware ofpreservatives), fi nely chopped

• 1 c pitted medjool ordeglet dates, fi nely chopped

• 1 c confectioner’s sugar (optional—or-ganic versions avail-able)

Preheat oven to 400F. Arrange almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast in oven forr ten minutes. Set aside to cool and then fi nely chop or place in a food proces-sor. Meanwhile, combinehoney, orange zest, cin-namon, allspice, and nut-meg in a small bowl. Mix almonds, apricots, dates and spice mix in a large bowl. Mix well. Pinch off rounded teaspoon-sized pieces and roll into balls. Dust the sugar plums with powdered sugar and refrigerate in single layers between sheetsof wax paper in airtight containers for up to one month.

http://www.organic-consumers.org/articles/article_6210.cfm

http://userealbutter.com/2007/11/18/sugar-plums-recipe/

makes sense that in places like Wisconsin—where the winters are cold, dark, and long—that people would gravitate toward these foods. It literally takes the edge off of the bitter cold. It is, however, possible to have too much of a good thing. Overin-dulgence in sweets can damage the pancreas and spleen, leading to diabetes mellitus, obesity, ama (toxin) formation, lowered ojas (immunity) and an inability to withstand stress. Also, if one is feeling a lack of love or nurturance in his or her life, he or she may seek content-ment from sweet foods. When sugar is consumed to fulfi ll an emotional need or used as a love substitute, it can lead to complacency, foggy thinking, dullness and over-satisfaction.

The innocent victims of over-indulgence in the sweet taste are often children. Because kids naturally gravitate toward the sweet taste, adults often offer candy and baked goods to kids as a way of rewarding, bribing, pacifying or getting on a child’s good side. It is common for par-ents to say that they do not want to deprive their child of sugar to the point that he develops hang-ups or sugar obsessions. Let’s face it though, there are a lot of sweet foods on the market that provide insuffi cient nutrition for our children and have short-term and long-term negative effects on their health. Accord-ing to Dr. Joseph Mercola, “the number one source of calories in the U.S. is high fructose corn syrup.” Consuming high fructose corn syrup, or just corn syrup for that matter, elevates insulin levels, and elevated insulin levels are the foundation of nearly every chronic disease known to humans: cancer, heart

disease, diabetes, premature ag-ing, arthritis, osteoporosis, etc.

In addition to corn syrup, many candies and desserts con-tain food coloring, additives, preservatives, artifi cial sweeten-ers, trans fat and MSG. There is a myriad of sources of informa-tion on the deleterious effects of these ingredients. Food coloring can cause increased hyperactiv-ity in children not to mention roller-coaster emotions, erratic behavior, delirium and sup-pressed immunity. The scope of this article is too narrow to discuss clinical studies on the effects of these foods. Because there is a signifi cant amount of discrepancy from one study to the next, it is diffi cult to sort through fact and fi ction. Anyway, what ever happened to people paying attention to how certain foods make themselves and their children feel, rather than depending on a study to tell us what to do?

The big picture is that the number one need that our chil-dren have is LOVE. Once an adult becomes aware of a pat-tern for offering sugar as love and decides that this is a habit she wishes to break, it opens up a window that exposes a gigantic vista ripe with creative possibilities. In lieu of offering sugar, a parent can provide the child with a listening ear, one-

on-one time, a back scratch, massage, reading time, a nature walk, a game or eating a whole-some meal that includes foods from the Ayurvedic sweet list—but only of the highest quality. The great yoga teacher, Swami Adhyatmananda, advocates that a parent gaze into their child’s eyes every day. By being pres-ent in body, mind and spirit for our children, the sweet tooth can be satisfi ed at the most profound tip of its root.

This holiday season, do something creative: fl y to your window like a fl ash, tear open the shutters and throw up the sash, and unveil new horizons for your family. Create the picturesque scene in your home with all the warmth, peace, and mirth depicted in “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Ap-preciate your children with all your energy and choose treats that bring lasting satisfaction and true love.

Patricia Wickman is a Certifi ed Ayurvedic Practitioner, Registered Yoga Teacher, and Certifi ed Pan-chakarma Technician. She owns Radiant Living Yoga and Ayurveda in Eau Claire. She is passionate about inspiring people to release negative thoughts and behavioral patterns so that individuals can claim abundant joy and radiant living.

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The Spice of LifeThe Holidays are fi lled with hot, yummy spiced goods

like cider and gingerbread, but did you know that these spices not only stimulate our appetites, but also stimulate the body and spirit too? They are perfect for winter: aiding circulation, lifting winter blues, alleviating symptoms of colds and fl u, and helping digest holiday fare. Spices add distinctiveness and color to a dish—and their history is equally colorful, dating back all the way to ancient Egypt. Spices also have a history of great value. Most were traded along spice routes between Europe and Asia and it was not uncommon that people

were killed for the value they would bring at any market. Even one as simple as black pepper was used as currency or a part of a wedding dowry. Some spices come from Africa, the Pacifi c Islands and other exotic locations where they are essential parts of the culinary delights of their respective regions. Saffron was used to dye cloth, while others were used to preserve foods. But overall, spices have had a history of health and healing since the beginning. Adding spices to our lives either in dishes, teas, or in Ayurvedic medicines has great benefi ts for us.

HEALING FOOD

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Cinnamon is the most common winter spice. It invigorates the nervous system and aids poor circulation, while its warming properties make it useful for breaking up phlegm from a cold or the fl u. Cinnamon is also very useful for diabetes because it helps the body use insulin more effi ciently. History shows that the Chinese herbalists were using cinnamon as far back as 2700 BC. In fact, it is still used today for fever, diarrhea, and menstrual problems in Chinese herbal mixtures.

Other ancient medical traditions—from Greek to Roman to Hebrew and Ayurvedic—used cinnamon to treat indigestion and nausea. It is even mentioned in the Bible as part of a holy ointment, and ancient Egyptians used cinnamon to embalm their deceased. Oil of cinnamon, a powerful antiseptic, was more valuable than gold in ancient times. Brought by the Crusaders to Europe, it has also been used as a love potion. While most of us will choose to use cinnamon in drinks and baked goods, it is also found in many savory dishes like curries and chili.

Clove is native to Indonesia and is grown in the West Indies, Brazil, Sri Lanka, India, and Zanzibar. The West uses it as a familiar spice in pies, but the documented healing qualities of cloves range from anti-infl ammatory, antioxidant, to antihistamine properties. Clove is a rich

source of eugenol—an antioxidant that protects against cardiovascular disease. Clove oil is known primarily as an oral anesthetic. In the Han Dynasty (3rd century AD) of China, anyone the emperor addressed had to hold cloves in their mouth to mask bad breath. In the Middle Ages in Europe, the oil was used as an antiseptic. Today, it is a common ingredient in insect repellent and has many uses in veterinary medicine.

Nutmeg is the best friend of eggnog and baked goods, but did you know that in ancient Indian medicine, nutmeg is used to relieve headache, fever, and bad breath, while in Arabian texts the spice is used for stomach ailments as well as an aphrodisiac? For the most fl avor, buy fresh, whole nutmeg and use a tiny spice grater.

Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world. It is found in the crocus fl ower and costs quite a pretty penny for only a small amount. Saffron is used a lot in French and Spanish dishes like seafood stew bouillabaisse and paella. But it’s also found in lots of baked goods and even yogurt and ice cream. In Ayurvedic medicine, saffron is used as an anti-infl ammatory to heal arthritis. It also tones the organs, strengthens the heart and helps to resolve liver disease, kidney infection, and menstrual problems. Added to a glass of milk, saffron is taken as a health tonic, which over time helps build

resistance to asthma and colds. Known as an aphrodisiac, it has been used to treat impotence and infertility, and is found in the medicines of the Middle East, China, and Tibet. Saffron may also have anticancer properties.

Cayenne is a pepper that is used in medicine and foods in a lot of hot climates. Because of cayenne’s great stimulating effects, this spice has many healing benefi ts. It helps reverse congestion and blockages in the respiratory and digestive systems, promotes circulatory health, and dispels fatigue and depression. Prepare it as a tea to combat colds or headaches; or prepare as a poultice for pain or infl ammations such as boils or toothaches.

Black pepper is one of the most common seasonings on our table. In India, home of Ayurvedic medicine, black pepper is used for improving metabolism and circulation and for treating colds. Peppercorns also aid digestion by stimulating digestive juices and they also help ward off lethargy.

Ginger is essential to Asian cuisine and is an important part of Chinese and Indian medicine. In Ayurvedic medicine, ginger is called the universal remedy. Pickled ginger is traditionally served with sushi because it is good at treating parasites that may come with raw fi sh. Ginger reduces the total volume of acid in the stomach, which helps relieve queasiness, calm

nausea—including nausea from chemotherapy—and prevent motion sickness. This multipurpose root relieves headaches, arthritis and joint stiffness, helps with clots, and stimulates our circulatory and reproductive systems. As a winter spice, it can be used as an expectorant and has antiseptic properties that ward off colds or fl u, making ginger a perfect winter tea.

Cardamom is a close relative to ginger. In Ayurveda, it is used to warm and inspire the spirits. It can dispel winter illnesses, lift depression, and help you meditate more peacefully. This fragrant spice is used in warm drinks such as hot punches and teas, including the Indian spiced tea known as chai. Combine it with milk to reduce the mucus forming properties associated with the drink. It is also a wonderful mood lifting tea.

Coriander is one of the oldest documented spices in the world. The leaf of the coriander plant is known as cilantro and is used in many Mexican dishes. But the seed has a very different tangy, citrus taste. Coriander is found in the cuisines of the Mediterranean, Africa, South America, and India—for both sweet and savory dishes. It is best known for its use in Indian curries, but it has also been used to improve the taste of gin and cigarettes.

So this holiday season, spice up your life with any one these wonderful, worldly spices.

A taste of spice

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GOOD EARTH

winter green The best eco-friendly ways to clear snow, heat your house, defrost, and much more this season

We all know that winter is full of shoveling, scraping windshields, and cranking on the heat. But rest assured, there are green ways to go about our winter routines, as well as save a few pennies. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a healthier, greener winter.

Take it Easy on the Salt. Did you know that the salt they sell to melt the ice on the front stoop contains cyanide, some of which may end up in your vegetable garden when spring comes around again? It can also corrode concrete, kill lawns, and pollute the water supply. Try sand as an alternative. It provides traction without damaging the landscaping or ruining next year’s veggie garden.

Choose Safer Antifreeze Most antifreeze never gets recycled, and most importantly, a minor amount ingested by a small child or beloved pet can result in death. Antifreeze picks up metals and other harmful chemicals during use, so no version of this product can be completely eco-friendly; however, there are friendlier versions out there. Check out earth911.org for more ideas.

Less Scraping, Less StressWe’ve all done it. Hats, scarf, mittens, and out to the car with your trusty scraper. Twenty minutes later, you’re still scraping, but now your fi ngers are numb. This year, beat the frost. Spray a saltwater solution on the inside of the windshield and wipe dry. You can’t see it but the salt will help ward off frost. If you want a double punch, spray a second solution of three parts vinegar and one part water on the outside glass and wipe dry. You’re scraper is sure to miss you.

Burn Smarter For maximum effi ciency start your cozy fi re with dry kindling and keep it going with small loads of wood that have been drying out for at least six months. The drier the wood is, the cleaner it burns. Make sure you never burn treated wood; it’s bad for all breathing beings. Remember to keep the fi re stoked, and that hot and bright fi res burn cleaner than smoldering, low ones. When not in use, remember to keep the fl ue closed, which will keep the warm air indoors.

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Minimize Idling When we warm up our vehicles in the morning, we not only burn excess fuel, but keeping our cars idling strains cylinders, spark plugs, exhaust systems, and engines, which work best in motion—not in neutral. The best way to warm up your car is to drive it. Since we live in the tundra, it may be a good idea to install a block heater which will heat all the cars components without wasting fuel. It may cost a bit now, but will reduce gas spending and save on emissions too.

Capture the Sun’s RaysThrow those curtains open. Even winter rays provide a good amount of natural heat, so be sure to open curtains and blinds each morning to capture all the natural heat you can. At dusk, before it gets bitterly cold, close them to trap in the warmth. You can also replace your current windows with “low-e” Energy Star-certifi ed windows (especially on the north side of the house). Learn more at energystar.gov.

Insulate Your PipesIf you are like me, you turn on the shower before getting in just to avoid the cold water morning surprise. Insulating the pipes will reduce the wait time for hot water to come out of the tap. This will raise your water’s beginning temperature by almost 4 degrees, lowering the heat setting on the water heater, and saving energy.

Lower Your Thermostat We’ve all heard it before, lower your thermostat and save. But have you actually done it? Turning your thermostat down to 68 degrees while you’re home and lower at night can save some pretty pennies. In fact, if you turn it down by 10 degrees during the day while you’re away, you can save as much as 15% on your bills. Also, lowering your temp to 55 degrees if you are leaving town, will also conserve some serious cash. Just remember to drain your pipes to prevent them from freezing.

Seal Up the AtticInsulating your attic can be one of the most cost effective ways to save money and energy. If you have a hatch door up to the attic, make sure you weather-strip and insulate it. If you aren’t sure how well your insulation is working, you can always call a local company to come out and assess your seals and leaks. Go to energysavers.gov for more info on insulating and attics.

Second Opinion | 12

Did you know that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were as good for your skin as they are for your overall health? These polyunsaturated fats are essential for reducing infl am-mation, healing dryness, and curing acne. These kickin fatty acids act as building blocks for the molecules that direct and regulate infl ammation. And since dry skin makes wrinkles appear more pronounced—getting too few fatty acids can also make you look older.

Your body can’t naturally produce omega-3s or omega-6s, but fortunately, they are easy to fi nd in foods. The average American diet is full of omega-6s due to all the corn-based products and prepackaged foods we consumer. We get far more of the 6s than we do of the 3s.

So to get more omega-3s, many dietitians and dermatolo-gists will tell you to focus on eating foods rich in omega-3s, such as nuts and oily cold-water fi sh. Flaxseed oil (1 tablespoon daily) or fi sh oil supplements are also two great sources of omega-3s.

Use: Boost your face cream to one with rich omega-3s and 6s. When it comes to the topical application of essential fatty acids, omega-6s work in just the same way as omega-3s—your skin doesn’t know the difference and utilizes them totally differently than in their dietary form. That’s good news, especially since omega-3 moisturizers smell slightly fi shy and spoil much quicker than their sister 6s.

Check these out:

Lush Skin Nanny MoistruizerRich moisturizer protects against the effects of the sun.

Nutritious ingredients abound in this cream. We use freshly squeezed apple juice, not synthetics, part of our holistic approach to keeping skin bright by using the whole fruit. Starfl ower oil moisturizes and hydrates; it has omega-6 oils and nutritious fatty acids (a lot nicer than they sound). Skin Nanny’s vitamins C and E come naturally with almond and hibiscus oils to penetrate your skin and reduce the appear-ance of wrinkles. The older you are the more you’ll appreci-ate the care Skin Nanny lavishes on your face, and the sooner you start using it, the happier you’ll be in the future.

ww.lushusa.com, $46.95

Murad Sheer Lustre Day Moisturizer SPF 15

Provides extreme illumination with moisture and nutrients for a healthy, youthful glow. Essential fatty acids and omegas provide plumping hydration while botani-cal oils boost elasticity and smooth away fi ne lines and wrinkles. Potent sunscreens are blended with anti-oxidant vitamins C and E to supply superior protection against free radi-cal and sun damage. Finally, radiant minerals wrap the skin in a lit-from-within glow, causing a supple, youth-ful appearance. The skin is perfectly hydrated, wonderfully protected, and gorgeously nourished.

www.murad.com, $67

Jais Body Custard A unique and effective blend of all

natural ingredients with omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids, this body custard moisturizes and nourishes the skin. Linoleic acid in omega-6 is what your skin is thirsty for! Our body custard is so luxurious you won’t be-lieve the effects on your skin! Use daily as an all-over dry skin and hair conditioner or on rough or cracked hands and feet. This custard also makes a great natural lip balm. The vital ingredi-ents to this product are Shea Butter, Virgin Co-

conut Oil and Olive Oil. Apply a small amount to infuse dry skin with moisture. This product will not clog pores. The Shea Butter base takes the extra ingredients of Vir-gin Coconut Oil and Vitamin E deep down into the lower layers of skin and all three work together to replenish

needed moisture and vital skin nutrition.www.jaisandyou.com, $10-$15

REJUVENATE

Moisturize with Omegas

Second Opinion | 13

Organic BeautyMakeup may help us look good—and even feel good—

but many of us may not feel so good if we knew what in-gredients went into our favorite cosmetics. More than 5,000 chemicals are used to make personal care products each year, and makeup falls into this category because it is ab-sorbed by the skin. A study conducted by Mount Sinai Medi-cal Center in 2003 revealed that our skin absorbs up to 60 percent of the ingredients (many of them harmful chemicals) that make up body products such as lotion and cream—and these ingredients then enter into our bloodstreams.

Organic beauty products are a great solution when you are trying to avoid harmful ingredients that can fi nd their way into your bloodstream. If you’re considering switching from regular to organic beauty products, the fi rst step is to look for the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Organic seal. The seal indicates that at least 95 percent of the ingredients are organic. A label that reads “made with organic ingredients” means that at least 70 percent of the product is organic. In many cases, preservatives are added to prevent bacteria growth, but the amount is so small that it is unnoticeable and does not affect a product’s organic status.

Of course, the product does not need an organic seal in order to guarantee that it is safe and healthy—many prod-ucts contain botanicals and are made without harsh chemi-cals. However, consumers should be aware that there is a difference between organic and natural beauty products; because the government does not regulate natural beauty products (and “natural” does not have exact standards in the beauty industry), the name can be misused. Any prod-uct that contains even a drop of a natural ingredient can be considered “natural”—even if a majority of the product’s ingredients are synthetic. To be absolutely sure of what you are buying, and to make certain there are enough natural ingredients, read the label. A product’s ingredients will be listed in descending order, with the most-used ingredient at the beginning of the list.

If the thought of constant label reading overwhelms you, check out the list below. You’ll fi nd many suggestions for both organic and natural personal care products that will take care of your skin—without feeding it harmful chemi-cals.

Body/Skin Care.......Jason Natural Hand and Body Lotion contains 84 percent aloe vera as a part of its non-greasy formula. This lotion also provides UV protection and is forti-fi ed with Vitamins A, C, and E as well as herbal extracts—it’s also certifi ed organic and protects your skin against dryness. www.luckyvitamin.com, $4.85 (8 oz.)

John Masters Blood Orange and Vanilla Body Wash is made from mild corn and coconut-based cleansers—it lathers into a rich, creamy foam to wash away dirt and oil, all without drying your skin. This body wash is also certifi ed organic and is made without artifi cial colors. www.beauty.com, $18.00 (8 oz.)

The Body Shop’s Coconut Body Butter is an intense mois-turizer for your entire body. With ingredients such as cocoa butter, coconut oil, shea butter, and caprylic acid, this prod-uct will help condition, soften, and smooth your skin. www.thebodyshop.com, $8.50 (1.7 oz.) or $17.50 (6.9 oz.)

Lip Care.......................................Kiss My Face Lip Balm is made with chamomile, goldenseal, and peppermint oil. This product is made with 70 percent certifi ed organic ingredients and comes in a fresh, minty fl avor.www.drugstore.com, $2.62 (0.15 oz.)

Boscia Jujube Salve Stick is a great way to extend the life of your lip color and smooth cakey concealer. You can also use it on and around dry lips to condition your skin. Beeswax and jojoba oil are just a few of this product’s ingredients. The salve stick contains no preservatives, is dermatologist tested, and is 100 percent natural (in both fragrance and color.)www.beauty.com, $16.00, (0.08 oz.)

Bronner’s Magic Soap Sun Dogs Organic Lip Balm Naked is an all-organic balm that is free of irritants. This “naked” lip balm is unscented and contains natural tochopherols, as well as organic products including jojoba oil, avocado oil, beeswax, and hemp oil. The avocado oil and beeswax pro-tect the lips while the organic jojoba and hemp oils moistur-ize. www.totaldiscountvitamins.com, $1.99, (0.15 oz.)

Cargo’s PlantLove Botanical Lipstick is made entirely out of corn and comes in twelve different shades. This lipstick will leave your lips feeling smooth and silky—it contains Orchid Complex and meadowfoam seed oil, as well as jojoba and shea butter. This product is also environmentally friendly and contains no mineral oils or petroleums. And when you’re fi nished with your lipstick, simply plant it in your garden! The tube is made of corn, and the carton is made with wildfl ower seeds. www.sephora.com, $20.00, (0.14 oz.)

REJUVENATE

Second Opinion | 14

Ah, the holidays ... full of joy, sparkling wonderment,

blessings, gratitude, delicious food, gatherings and celebrations with family and friends and ... a potential for disharmony and stress. Are you excited and looking forward to the holidays? Are you getting stressed out as the holidays approach? In either case, as we move forward through the holidays, consider the following feng shui tips to help create a season of

love, harmony, and special memories.

~ Proclaim peace and harmony this holiday season. Open your eyes to new ways to celebrate the season and honor this sacred time by taking time to slow down. Nourish and pamper yourself. Give yourself the gift of getting together with a friend and have some tea, laughter, and heart felt good cheer.

~ Embellish the front door of your home. And, use your front door. Ring

the doorbell! The front door is the mouth of chi, where all opportunities and abundant blessings come through. Assure that the pathway to your front door is clear and welcoming with beauty. With intention, hang a beautiful wreath on your front door to attract new opportunities. Adding lights will attract even more good luck and a ribbon in a color you love will increase good fortune.

~ Instead of decorating every nook and cranny,

decorate for harmony. Place your holiday decorations with love and intention. Remember balance, consider each decoration carefully, and keep decorations to a minimum. Give yourself permission to abandon tradition and decorate with things that have wonderful memories and make your heart sing with joy. Donate the rest; less is more. Be mindful to not put too many holiday decorations out because they can block the positive

Holiday Harmony with Feng Shuiby Diana DiCristina

HEALTHY FAMILY

Second Opinion | 15

energy from fl owing freely through your home and your life resulting in stagnation. Every single item in your home has an effect on your personal energy; your space refl ects your life. This holiday season allow your treasures, fi lled with loving memories, to enhance the energy of you and your home.

~ Create a lasting memory with a timeless scent. Stud oranges with cloves, display on a plate for a nice fragrant centerpiece. After the holidays you can place the studded oranges in drawers for a delightful aromatic treat every time you open the drawer.

~ Color makes a difference and has tremendous power. Use the energies of colors in your home in a positive manner. Too much color can be exhausting. And too many bright colors such as reds, greens, silvers and golds can create over stimulating energy, thus increasing chaos, stress, and disharmony. To create a more relaxing and comfortable space, consider

balancing bright colors by adding calm, muted colors such as creams, blues, and soft purples. This will help to create a sense and feeling of calm, tranquility, and inner peace, which will ripple out and affect all around you. Use the color purple, with intention, to increase the fl ow of abundance in your life.

~ Get some air! Let fresh energy in and air out your home. Open windows, let out the old energy and refresh the ambiance. To help the air transfer to occur effectively, open three or more windows for fi fteen to thirty minutes. This will let out old polluted indoor air and allow fresh outdoor air to come in. This is such a refreshing gift that you will soon fi nd yourself doing this regularly, not just for the holidays.

~ Deliberately slow down, have quiet places where you can retreat and relax. Turn off the television and play relaxing music that you love. Fill your home with soothing music that touches your heart and Soul. Piano music is especially nice as it has

a watery feeling and will help you to go with the fl ow and feel relaxed. Add some candles to bring in a sense of glowing warm energy especially on those chilly winter evenings.

~ Did you know that when guests wash their hands in your bathroom it brings the energy of money into you home? Liven up your guest bath with scented soaps and colorful holiday towels, making the bathroom as inviting as possible.

~ And the holiday tree. A holiday tree connects us to nature and invites spiritual growth and renewal. Elements of a well-balanced holiday tree are: lights which symbolize sparking energy; the tree shape represents growth; its fresh scent renews the air and lifts your spirits; and gifts represent love. Place your holiday tree near a window so people passing by may also enjoy the beauty of your energy-sparking holiday tree. Don’t want to kill a tree? As a blessing for years to come, consider decorating a live tree planted in dirt

that can be incorporated in your garden. Or decorate an existing tree in your garden that can be appreciated and admired from a window view.

As the season approaches, happy holiday harmony with feng shui! Wishing you peace, prosperity and abundant blessings for a happy, healthy and harmonious holiday season full of love and extraordinary memories!

Copyright © 2009 Diana DiCristina, Wind Water Harmony, All Rights Reserved. Diana DiCristina CSD, CPFS, and founder of Wind Water Harmony, views life through a fi nely crafted lens, allowing her to visualize beauty, balance, and harmony in the homes and businesses of her clients. Her background in leadership, design, construction, and marketing help her approach challenges creatively. Visit her website at www.windwaterharmony.com for a full list of services.

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Second Opinion | 16

Back problems related to improper jaw function. Chronic illnesses worsened by heavy metal toxicity.

Poor digestion/indigestion resulting from excessive tooth extractions. Emotional dis-turbances (bad temper, depression, mem-ory loss) caused by airway constriction. These are but a few “symptoms” whose causes may dwell inside your mouth. In 30+ years of practice I have seen patients who have been told over and over again (until they almost believed it) that their problems are “all in their head.” It turns out that whoever was saying that was right, and we have been able to help many of those patients with Holistic Dentistry. The science behind this philosophy is very sound, often based entirely on peer-reviewed medical research. This article is designed to help you better understand Holistic Dentistry.

WHAT IS A HOLISTIC DENTIST?A Holistic Dentist is fi rst and fore-

most a dentist. Any licensed dentist must decide what to be… general, pediatric, cosmetic, etc… or holistic. Before you begin thinking about fi nding a Holistic Dentist, understand that every Holistic Dentist is different and unique becaus-etheir story, their history, of how they became a Holistic Dentist is unique. There is no “University of Holistic Dentistry,” which means that a Holistic Dentist is a dentist who became interested in how their profession is infl uencing the health of the rest of the body. Then the journey of self-education toward becoming a Holistic Dentist began. What path that journey leads them down will largely determine their philosophy and how they are differ-ent from both regular dentists and other Holistic Dentists. For example, if a dentist begins with classes on Pain Management of TMJ (jaw joint), they may focus on the health of the TMJ complex and helping their patients with headaches and jaw pain. If they delve into the world of naturopathy or electro-dermal screening, their focus

may be on heavy metal toxicity, resulting in extensive experience safely remov-ing toxic metals from your mouth. The point is, you should understand where a Holistic Dentist is coming from in order to understand how the information they provide you fi ts into your journey to better health. In our experience the following list includes the philosophies Holistic Dentists most often have in common (from most to least frequent):

1. Not placing amalgam/mercury fi llings;

2. Being trained and equipped for proper mercury removal

3. Consideration of heavy metal tox-icity/electrical issues

4. Multi-disciplinary care 5. Orthopedic orthodontics6. Diagnosis and treatment of osteo-

necrotic bone (cavitations)7. Treatment/diagnosis of restricted

breathing (sleep apnea/snoring) WHY IS HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

IMPORTANT?Ultimately, the best dentistry is no den-

tistry, since this is an invasive step towards health; however, once “dis-ease” in the mouth has begun, intervention becomes

necessary. Key points to be aware of when evaluating proposed dental procedures, while taking into consideration holistic philosophies are:

Silver (amalgam) fi llings are more than 50% mercury. Mercury has been scientifi -cally proven to leak from these fi llings. Mercury is the worst naturally occurring neurotoxin known to man. Having these placed in your mouth may be an unnec-essary health risk that could already be affecting you.

Orthodontics on children can begin (and should begin when necessary) well before the standard 13-14 years of age. Though it is never too late, better and lon-ger-lasting results are obtained with earlier intervention. Additionally, removing teeth in order to make more room for straighten-ing (braces) can often be detrimental to a person’s overall health and in most cases is avoidable.

Having different metals in your mouth (in addition to your saliva) can create electrical charges in your mouth that can interfere with the function of the brain and hormone producing glands. These organs operate on very small amounts of current, and the electrical fi eld caused by this “bat-tery” in your mouth could possibly interfere with proper functioning of the body.

Root canals are only a temporary solution to the problem of a dead tooth.

Holistic Dentistry is an approach to dentistry that promotes overall health and wellness, not only the treatment of oral disease / discomfort. This approach to dentistry encompasses both modern science and knowl-edge drawn from the world’s great traditions in natural healing. Holistic Dentistry observes and deals with the overall health of the patient, not just the teeth.

Holistic Dentistry The Missing Piece to Your Health Puzzle?by J.D. Hartsough B.S.

HEALTHY FAMILY

Second Opinion | 17

The structure of the tooth is such that it is impossible with today’s technology to completely sterilize it. If the tooth is not sterile, it could eventually result in the spread of toxic byproducts to other teeth as well as other areas of the body.

Constrictive appliances, prosthetics, and bridges can reduce, limit, or eliminate the necessary movement between the bones in the head. Negative physiological and emotional issues may result from such restrictions of cranial freedom.

DESCRIBE THE HOLISTIC DEN-TISTRY PROCESS

When a patient seeks out a Holistic Dentist, it is often not for preventative measures, but for help returning them to good health. Frequently, these patients are making their way day by day just trying to survive, trying to get through life expe-riencing as little pain as possible. There isn’t a silver bullet that can help everyone in that situation. As every patient’s history is unique, their holistic dental treatment path will also be unique. This means that the Holistic Dentist must be part detective, part technician, and part artisan. He/she will need to gather as much information

as possible to have a clear view of the patient’s current state of health. Only by having that whole picture of the patient’s health history can the dentist accurately map out the route back to a state of well-being.

THE IMPORTANCE OF INTEGRATIVE CARE

A Whole Person Dentist is fi rst and foremost a dentist, and works mainly in your mouth. This means he/she will need to work closely in cooperation with other health professionals who can also help guide the patient to optimal health and well-being (no single doctor or therapist can do it alone). A Holistic Dentist will of-ten refer out to naturopaths, myo-functional therapists, detox specialists, acupuncturists, and chiropractors, as well as dental special-ists. It is this cooperation and understand-ing which will enable you to be healthier than you may have thought possible.

IN THE END…The best thing you can do is brush and

fl oss regularly, see your hygienist as often as they recommend and become edu-cated so you can make decisions that will

improve (not compromise) your health. Holistic Dentists are hard to fi nd; you may have to settle for a non-holistic dentist. If so, hold fi rm to your beliefs, and don’t settle for procedures you’ve determined aren’t in the best interest of your health. Always remember, you are the keeper and guardian of your own body. Only you can make decisions regarding your health and you are ultimately responsible for those decisions.

J.D. Hartsough has long been active in the fi eld of Holistic Dentistry and has co-authored articles on the subject matter in peer reviewed journals and textbooks. He hopes that one day holistic dental practitioners will be available to all seeking such care.

Second Opinion | 18

1 Take care of your body, mind, and spirit.When your body is used to exercise, it gets accus-

tomed to the endorphins that are re-leased when working out. Endorphins are the natural pain killing chemicals of the body. Just like any chemical, if your body is accustomed to having its daily dose, and suddenly you stop supplying it, you can suffer mild to moderate withdrawal-like symptoms. If you stop working out, your body is denied that release of endorphins. The most common symptoms are depres-sion, anxiety, and cravings. Sound familiar?

Whatever you do to keep your body, mind, and spirit healthy should be maintained during the holidays, despite the many disruptions in your regular routine this time of year. Whether it’s reading for relaxation, attending worship services, or walk-ing to your favorite spot, keep feeding your soul with what it needs—espe-cially during this time of year.

As you get ready for the New Year, why not try something new that will help your body? Chiropractic, mas-sage, yoga, pilates, aerobics, weight lifting, and stretching may be just what you are looking for to help alle-viate stress in your life. Check around and fi nd something that works for you; it’ll be well worth fi nding an out-let for some of the stress in your life.

2 GET ENOUGH SLEEP. With the added excitement and things to do, sleep often becomes less of

a priority in people’s lives around the holidays. Unfortunately, less sleep can signifi cantly affect stress levels. We’ve all had days where we feel tired, which is likely accompanied by some added irritability. Disagreements at work or at home may result, often leading to more stress and less restful sleep. Thinking about an argument while lying in bed at night snowballs the sleeplessness and robs your body of the needed recharge to mind and body. Less sleep may also have a negative impact on your physical health. Make it a priority for the sake of you and everyone else enjoying the season with you.

3 AVOID STIMULANTS. The reason stimulants may make you feel more alert or more wide awake,

is because by their very nature, they are putting a physical stress into your body. The most widely used stimu-lants in North America are caffeine and nicotine. In keeping with Tip 1, keep your routines the same. If you normally enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, there is nothing wrong with doing that. Much different is adding an extra cup or pot to your routine as evenings of visiting get late and you feel the need for an evening ‘boost.’ Any increased use of stimulants at a late hour may lead to a restless night; that caffeine cruising through your veins may inhibit your sleep long after the guests leave.

4 WORRY ABOUT THE THINGS YOU CAN CONTROL. Many people are their own worst enemy when

it comes to stress. They worry about what may happen versus what is actu-

ally happening. Worrying about things out of your control can lead to added stress, blowing things out of propor-tion, and then even more stress. Stress makes it easy to rationalize how your sister being late to dinner may eventu-ally lead to the biggest disaster in Christmas history. Rather than focus on the “what if,” be happy she’s there and savor the memory of togetherness. Preserve the memories together and forget about the stuff that you can’t control anyway.

5 FOCUS ON THE BIG PICTURE. Think of all the folks in those long lines on Black Friday; I’d bet 95% of

those people are not following Tips 1-4. The average person in that line probably woke up at 3 am, started their coffee maker, bundled up and headed out the door while worrying that 100 other people are already in line to get the special item they have their sights set on. Is doing this one day a year going to spiral them down towards poor health? Of course not. But it’s a great example of how we let aspects of the season alter our lives and this leads to stress. The big pic-ture is whatever you and your loved ones want it to be. Regardless of your reason for gathering and celebrat-ing, remember the big picture. Forget about the little stuff, and cherish the moments together so you can truly enjoy the season.

Dr. Travis Beauchamp is the practicing chiropractor of Hudson Chiropractic, S.C. and For Your Well Being Chiropractic, located in White Bear Lake, MN. He does traditional chiropractic techniques as well as Activator technique, which is a low force, very gentle chiropractic technique. For more information please visit www.hudsonchiro-practicclinic.com or www.whitebearchiro.com or call 715-386-6100.

5 Tips for Stress Relief Around the Holidaysby Dr. Travis Beauchamp

HEALING PATHS

Second Opinion | 19

The Next Five YearsBy Dr. Carolyn Wanken

Many things can happen over the course of fi ve years: a child is born; a loved one passes; you buy a new home;

you get a new job; or a new health challenge presents itself. All of these things, whether good or bad, create change and stress in our lives. Our bodies continually try to adapt to help us survive. However, sometimes our bodies may no longer affectively adapt. Increased stress (good or bad) may mean a body has a decreased ability to adapt and heal.

Are you merely surviving or is your body thriving? Let me ask you this question: are you as healthy today as you were fi ve years ago? What will your health look like in fi ve years if you don’t change anything?

Every day your body is chang-ing. It is either getting weaker or getting stronger. It is either getting sicker or it is getting healthier. It is up to you to decide if you will get stronger and healthier or weaker and sicker.

The problem is NOT that you have something you shouldn’t have and need to get rid of it (symptoms,

sickness); but rather, the problem is you have LOST something you need

to be healthy and happy (your CONNECTION).Chiropractic is not about helping you have less of something

(symptoms); it helps you maximize something so that you can be stronger, healthier, and happier than you have ever been.

In order for your body to function, there needs to be a clear connection—everyday—between the brain and the body. The body and the brain are connected via the nerves. Constant com-munication is essential for proper hormone balance, chemical balance, immune responses, digestion, wellness, and much more! Your spine and nerve system are so intimately connected that if you lose normal alignment or function in your spine, you also partially lose the CONNECTION between your brain and your body. You gradually lose your natural state of health and well-being. Chiropractic helps you restore normal alignment and function in your spine so that your brain-body connection is re-established, and you can resume functioning, healing, and growing stronger.

There are three types of stress that can impact your overall connection. Chemical, emotional, and physical stressors will trigger the misalignment of the spine, thereby weakening the brain-body connection.

I challenge you to make the next fi ve years your healthiest CONNECTED years yet! Get regular chiropractic check-ups, eat more nutritiously, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and fi nd a healthy outlet for stress.

Dr. Carolyn successfully completed her Fellowship in Chiropractic Pediatrics with the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association

(ICPA) in 2002. In addition to being a member of the ICPA, Dr. Carolyn also actively serves as a chairperson on the Physician’s Advisory Board to the National Republican Congressional Committee. She is also an ambas-sador to the Chiropractic Leadership Alliance, 2 time graduate of the Total Solution program, a member of the Wisconsin Chiropractic Association and the Hudson Chamber of Commerce.

Thursday, January 21 & Friday, January 22, 2010Ramada Convention Center, Eau Claire, WI

with agricultural and business information, education, and networking, brought to you by WI Local Food Network, River Country Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) and Hiawatha Valley RC&D.

12th AnnualMidwest Value AddedAgriculture Conference

& 4th Annual Wisconsin Local Food Summit

An exciting addition this year- the Value Added Agriculture College will have seven half and full day in-depth sessions on various topics including: Post Harvest Handling for Vegetable Production Quality and Success; Food Safety on the Market Farm; and Shaking the Federal Money Tree.

Introducing an all-new Value Added Ag College on Wednesday, January 20!

Keynote addresses by Will Allen, Co-founder and Director of Growing Power; Michael Perry, humorist, speaker and author of Coop: A Year of Poultry, Pigs and Parenting; and Melinda Hemmelgarn, “Food Sleuth” columnist, and local food advocate.

Bringing together value added farmers and advocates of local food systems.

For more information check out our website at: http://www.rivercountryrcd.org/valad.html or call

River Country RC&D at 715-834-9672.

Second Opinion | 20

by Paula Quinlan

Supplementing with digestive plant-based enzymes just may be

the answer for you! What are enzymes? Protein molecules manufactured by all living cells (plants, animals and man) to survive, thrive and func-tion. Our body requires all 3 categories of enzymes for optimal performance:

1. Digestive Enzymes (plant based)

2. Food Enzymes3. Metabolic EnzymesDigestive and food enzymes

are active within the digestive system. Metabolic enzymes exist throughout the body in all of the organs, bones, blood, and cells.

Digestive and food enzymes break down the food and allow the cells to harvest the nutri-ents. When we are sick and tired of being sick and tired, Digestive plant-based enzymes are the key to unlocking good health.

Enzymes – The Sparkplug of Life

The human body cannot survive without enzymes. Every biochemical and meta-bolic process in the human body (and your pets!) requires enzymes. Minerals, vitamins, and hormones need enzymes to do their work.

The most essential elements in our body are enzymes, even more important than oxygen, water, and food. Plant-based enzymes offer support for digestion and breakdown of our food for absorption and assimilation. Digestive and food enzymes are the “car-

penters” of the body, utiliz-ing the hammers (minerals), nails (vitamins), and boards (proteins) to perform every single cell function for our daily activities, such as breath-ing, eliminating, rebuilding, and healing. Organs, tissue, and cells are run by metabolic enzymes, the “robots” that build and renew our bodies – the temple of our spirit.

Insuffi cient En-zymes and Disease

Our bodies require enzymes for a healthy immune and defense system, to see, hear, taste, breathe and move. En-

zymes support the Energy of Life for our bodies. However, when we deplete our enzyme supply, there is a direct corre-lation to dis-ease or just plain tired of being sick and tired!

We were born with an abundant supply of enzymes to meet our bodily needs well into our golden years. Well, maybe 40 to 50 years ago we were! However, thanks to pro-cessed food, busy lifestyles, and lack of exercise, these lifestyle choices have taken a toll on our health and well-being. When the body does not consistently and effi ciently breakdown and metabolize the

nutrients in the food intake, the quality of life is slowly depleted over the years. The process is so slow that you may not even notice that your energy and vitality are being depleted until macroscopic changes have taken place in the cells.

Insuffi cient supplies of enzymes allow food to sit in the stomach too long, causing fermentation and digestive issues. The digestive system is sensitive to stress. Our stress fi lled lives decrease the body’s ability to produce metabolic enzymes. When our food is not being digested properly, a host of problems can result, such as “leaky gut syndrome,” food allergies and sensitivities, unexplained aches and pains, blood sugar and weight management is-sues, fi bromyalgia, and low resistance to viral and bacte-rial illnesses. These prob-lems are a result of the body not eliminating effi ciently, resulting in acid buildup in the tissue. The lymph system becomes sluggish as does the immune system. Acid build-up causes the body to work overtime trying to produce enough enzymes for the di-gestion process, compromis-ing its ability to build a strong immune system.

Digestion is KingThe body’s priority is

digestion, not maintaining health. Maintaining health is a lifestyle choice. Supplement-ing with digestive plant-based enzymes is a lifestyle choice. Managing stress is a lifestyle choice. We will always have stress, simply because we will

Tired of Being Sick and Tired?HEALING PATHS

Second Opinion | 21

always have events happening in our lives. How we respond to the events determines what the outcome will be. The outcome may be depletion of our energy and the speeding up of the aging process. Many researchers feel that the aging process and death are simply the depletion of the enzyme supply to the point the living organism is not able to repair and live in its existing envi-ronment.

What can we do to help ease the stress on our diges-tive system? The answer is simple – supplement with di-gestive plant-based enzymes. According to Dr. DiQie, in her book The Healing Power of Enzymes:

“Eighty percent of our body’s energy is expended by the digestive process. If you are run down, under stress, living in a very hot or very cold climate, pregnant, or are a frequent air traveler, then enormous quantities of extra

enzymes are required by your body. Because our entire system functions through enzymatic action, we must supplement our enzymes. Aging deprives us of our ability to produce necessary enzymes. The medical profes-sion tells us that all disease is due to a lack or imbalance of enzymes. Our very lives are dependent upon them.”

Enzymes and Food Groups

Now the question becomes, which digestive enzymes do we need? To answer this, consider the three main food groups: proteins, carbohy-drates, and fats. The digestive system requires protease to digest proteins, amylase to di-gest carbohydrates, and lipase to digest fats. In addition, lactase is benefi cial for those who are lactose intolerant, to help breakdown milk sugars, caseins, and milk fat. Look

for quality plant enzymes that include a blend of herbs to help support and heal the digestive tract.

If the correct quantity and type of each enzyme is not present during the diges-tive process, the waste from the incomplete digestion is stored in the body as toxic acid. By making the healthy choice, eighty percent of our dis-ease can be prevented or reversed. A healthy solution is supplementation with diges-tive plant-based enzymes and having the right amount and the right kind of enzymes at the right time to complete the digestion process.

To further assist in support-ing the body, taking between meals will help to replenish the supply of enzymes in the pancreas. This also helps to cleanse the blood and liver, easing the stress on all the internal organs and lymph system.

Tired of being sick and

tired? It is your choice. Main-taining good health requires healthy choices. The process of restoring wellness begins with a lifelong choice of managing stress and enhanc-ing digestion. Start your New Year with healthier choices.

Copyright© 2009 Paula Quin-lan, Paula Quinlan Consulting. All rights reserved. Paula Quin-lan, Body Ecologist, is certifi ed in nutritional darkfi eld microscopy, aromatherapy, and Reiki energy healing. She is an educator and professional speaker. She offers one-on-one consults, showcases, workshops and presentations to help people reclaim their body ecology and cleanse the temple for their Spirit. She can be contacted at 651.772.6971 or emailed at p_quinlan@comcast.net. Her website is www.paula-quinlan.com, click on Products, Rainforest Botanicals to explore rainforest digestazon plus enzyme support for improved quality of life.

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Second Opinion | 22

December 2Soaks, Scrubs, and Crème 6-8pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. Anna Dvorak. $45/$42 members. Combine 100% natural ingredients and pure essential oils to make rejuvenating body products that turn an ordinary bath into a spa. We’ll make Relaxation Bath Soak, Energizing Sugar Body Scrub, Citrus Hand Scrub, and Soothing Body Crème, and you’ll take home recipes and samples to test and easily recreate at home for your own use or for holiday gift making.

December 3The Roast Class 6-8pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. $20/$18 member. Join our meat expert, Kristine Szczech, for this class all about traditional holiday roasts. She’ll explain how to select, prepare, cook, and serve roasted leg of lamb, roasted pork loin, and beef rib roast.

Managing Stress – Naturally 7-8pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 622 Shelby Ave, St Paul, MN 651-310-9499. Free; registration required. Dr. Candace Salmi of BodyMind Chiropractic Center. Stress can manifest itself in many different ways – it may cause insomnia, digestive issues, cardiovascular disease and even lowered immunity. Learn to identify how stress affects your life and your health and learn tools to effectively manage your stress response.

December 5Intro to Kettlebells 10:30am FREE Intro to Pilates 12:00 FREE. Vitality Adventures. 145 10th St. E. St. Paul. 651-214-6357. www.vitalitystpaul.com Our holiday schedule begins on December 7th.

Holistic Healing and Psychic Fair 10am-5pm. Shell Lake Community Center, hosted by BodyLab. $5 entrance fee or bring a non-perishable food item and get in for only $3. All lectures included with entrance fee. For more information email bodylabusa@gmail.com or call 715-520-1358. Booths still available. There will be over 30 vendors available to assist everyone on their

healing/spiritual journey. Come learn about Crystals, Energy therapy, Essential Oils and much more.

Know Thy Vegetables! 1-3pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. Jan Grover $25/$23 members. This is the second in a series of hands-on cooking classes to focus on the more obscure vegetables. You’ll learn something about their history in different cultures, their nutritional value, and scrumptious, easy ways to prepare them. This month, we’ll focus on winter squash, because winter is this vegetable’s best season for taste and overall quality. Bring an apron and a takeaway container, because you’ll be bringing home samples of squash-curry-apple soup made with kabocha (a Japanese squash); red kuri (another Japanese squash) spring rolls; and Buttercup (a more recent cultivar) gnocchi with sage and browned butter.

December 6Winter Preserves and Gifts 1-3:30pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. $25/$22 members. Nothing compares to a homemade gift. Join crafty food preservers Jan Grover and Liz McMann for a demonstration (and tasting!) of how to make Festive Kiwi Jam, Citrus Marmalade, Chinese Candied Walnuts, and Spiced Candied Pecans that your friends and family will adore. No canning experience necessary—we’ll teach you everything you need to know and share tips for personalizing these gorgeous gifts. We’ll also include detailed instructions for making meringue “mushrooms” at home.

December 8Maximize Your Metabolism 6-8pm $25 Inspiring Actions 1810 Webster Street, Hudson, WI (across from Fleet Farm) Registration required. Call 715-381-3148 Want to boost your metabolism, lose weight and feel better? Get a better understanding of what your metabolism is, how you can accelerate it and just what foods will rev it up or put the brakes on it. You will leave class armed with new information and a wealth of secrets that will shift your weight loss out of

idle and into high gear. Some topics covered: diet, exercise, hormones, sleep, supplements and hidden metabolism slashers.

December 9Body Magic Showcase Events. Drop 2-3 Sizes Today! Experience Instant Results. Reshape body, Relieve pain, Correct Posture. Wednesdays Dec 9th& 16th, Jan 6th & 20th. 7pm. 2044 Bradley Street, Maplewood MN 55117. RSVP 651-772-6971; www.map712.com/YesSuccess.html

Picky Eaters and the Struggle for Power: Tips to increase variety and decrease confl ict 7-8:30pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. Katja Rowell MD. $20/$17 members. Feed your child/ren in a way that establishes a healthy relationship to food and body. Go beyond “ants on a log” to concrete strategies to improve nutrition and have the family table be a place everyone wants to be at. Ample time for individual questions.

December 10The Grocery Store Herbalist: Increasing Your Energy 7-8pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. Paul Magee, Ma.O.M., L.Ac. $15/$13 members. Are you beginning to feel run down from the Holiday Season? Join the Grocery Store Herbalist as he shows you how to create herbal formulas to increase your energy, all with ingredients easily found in the co-op. This class is part lecture, part demonstration and tasting.

Homeopathy: For Coughs, Colds and Flu 6:30-8pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 622 Shelby Ave, St Paul, MN 651-310-9499. Aaron Means, MA. $10/$8 members. Looking for an effective alternative to bring relief to the often lingering and debilitating symptoms of the common cough, cold and fl u? Discover homeopathy, a natural and comprehensive form of healthcare that is safe, effective, and has no side effects. This course will cover common homeopathic remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of these troublesome fall and winter illnesses, and how remedies restore

the body’s internal balance to help prevent future occurrences. Homeopathic principles of practice will also be discussed. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how homeopathy can help you, your family and friends. Please bring a notebook & pen.

December 12Sweet Dough Creations 1-3pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. David S. Cargo, St. Paul Bread Club. $20/$17 members. Learn about different enriched breads and the many shapes that sweet dough coffee cakes can form: Swedish tea rings, butterfl ies, hearts, coffee cake twists. Learn how to make overnight cinnamon rolls that will have your friends asking for more.

December 15Panettone! 6-8:30pm. Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street St Paul, MN 651-690-0507. Jan Grover. $25/$23 members. Here’s your chance to make an Italian-American panettone from the late, famed Columbus Bakery in San Francisco: a fresh, yeasty, fruit-and-nut–studded bread that you’ll be reluctant to share with friends and family! We’ll prepare your dough for this holiday marvel, and then you’ll bring it home, along with detailed instructions, for its two risings and baking. Stuffed with pine nuts, citron, golden raisins, and candied cherries, this panettone is a celebration of America’s bounty by northern California’s early twentieth-century Italian immigrants. Jan has been making this bread for more than four decades. Bring an apron, a big bowl in which to bring home your dough, and an appetite, because we’ll be baking a panettone in class just for you to eat.

December 19 Wine & Cheese Pairing 12-3pm Whole Earth Grocery. 126 S Main Street River Falls, WI. 715-425-7971

December 23 Wine & Cheese Pairing 4-6pm Whole Earth Grocery. 126 S Main Street River Falls, WI. 715-425-7971

H a p p e n i n g s i n t h e V a l l e y December 2009/January 2010December 2009/January 2010Events are subject to change; call ahead for details. Calendar event listings are free. Send your listing by going to

our website www.asecondopinionmag.com

Second Opinion | 23

January 5Maximize Your Metabolism 6-8pm $25 Inspiring Actions 1810 Webster Street, Hudson, WI (across from Fleet Farm) Registration required. Call 715-381-3148 Want to boost your metabolism, lose weight and feel better? Get a better understanding of what your metabolism is, how you can accelerate it and just what foods will rev it up or put the brakes on it.

Jan 12 and 19Practical Steps Toward Optimal Health Series The seminars are built on one another; attendance to both is recommended. 6-8pm. River Market Co-op. Each class $25 members/$30 non-members and includes a workbook. Please pre-pay by phone (651) 439-0366, in-store, or by email: education@rivermarket.coop 221 North Main Street Ste 1 Stillwater, Minnesota 54082 Learn how to read labels, discover food sensitivities, detox your body, control stress, improve digestion, boost energy, reduce infl ammation, and much more. Mark Norman, Certifi ed Nutritionist trained in Functional Medicine, will help you build a healthy foundation of wellness based on his fi fteen years of research and clinical practice.

January 16Healthy Indian Cooking 101: Vegetarian Main Dishes with Rupa Dash 1-3pm. $20 for River Market and Phipps members; $25 for non-members. The class will be held at The Phipps Center for the Arts, 109 Locust St., Hudson, WI. Call 715-386-8409 for directions. Seating is limited. Please pre-pay by phone (651) 439-0366, in-store, or by email: education@rivermarket.coop. 221 North Main Street Ste 1 Stillwater, Minnesota 54082. Come have fun while you explore the wonderful fl avors and aromas of Indian vegetarian cooking. We will be cooking chole (chick peas in a savory gravy), mattar paneer (peas and tofu in a yogurt curry), and raajma (red kidney beans in a spicy sauce). You will learn how to make healthy low-fat, cholesterol free dishes using natural, organic, nutritionally rich ingredients. January 20Midwest Value Added Agriculture CollegeRamada Inn Convention Center, Eau Claire, WI. For more information check out our website at:http://www.rivercountryrcd.org/valad.html or call River Country RC&D at

715-834-9672.

January 21Carbon Budgeting: Simplifying and Prioritizing Your Environmental Efforts 7-8pm River Market Co-op Free! (651) 439-0366, education@rivermarket.coop. 221 North Main Street Ste 1 Stillwater, Minnesota 54082. We are all trying to save energy and money in our homes. If your head is spinning, come to this class. David Nelson, a sustainability consultant, will sort it out for you and will show you how to get the best economic and environmental return for your time and money.

January 21-22Value Added Agriculture/WI Local Food Summit is in the calendar for Ramada Inn Convention Center, Eau Claire, WI For more information check out our website at:http://www.rivercountryrcd.org/valad.html or call River Country RC&D at 715-834-9672.

January 23Making Fresh Mozzarella 1-3pm. River Market Co-op $10 Members; $15 Non-members. Please pre-pay by by phone (651) 439-0366, in-store, or by email: education@rivermarket.coop 221 North Main Street Ste 1 Stillwater, Minnesota 54082. Making fresh mozzarella cheese is not that hard! Let Khaiti Kahleck, the River Market Grocery Assistant Manager, show you all the steps, so you can feel more confi dent to try it at home yourself.

January 26 Gardening with Sara Morrison 7-8pm. River Market Co-op $10 Members; $15 Non-Members, Please pre-pay by phone (651) 439-0366, in-store, or by email: education@rivermarket.coop. 221 North Main Street Ste 1 Stillwater, Minnesota 54082. Part II: Navigating the seed catalog, choosing varieties and starting seeds indoors. Join Sara Morrison, an urban vegetable garden consultant, for a seedy adventure from purchased to potted to get a leg up on your garden harvest and bring the garden to life in January!

January 30Healthy Indian Cooking 102: Flat Breads with Rupa Dash 1-3pm. The Phipps Center for the Arts, 109 Locust St. Hudson, WI. 715-386-8409 for directions. $20 for River Market and Phipps Members; $25 Non-Members. Please pre-pay for all classes by phone (651) 439-0366,

in-store, or by email: education@rivermarket.coop 221 North Main Street Ste 1 Stillwater, Minnesota 54082. Come discover a variety of delicious Indian breads to accompany curries. We will be making aloo paratha (potato stuffed), rotis (dry puffed), and naan (baked leavened bread). You will have an opportunity to taste each of these with an accompaniment of vegetable curry which will be provided.

ONGOING OFFERINGS

INSPIRING ACTIONS, LLC YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS CENTER 1810 Webster Street, Hudson, WI (across from Fleet Farm) Registration required. 715-381-3148**Class requires pre-registration. All other classes are drop in. Call 715-381-3148.Sunday 11-noon Beginning Yoga Monday 8-9am Beginning Yoga 5:30-6:30pm Mixed Yoga 7-8pm Gentle Yoga Tuesday 8:-9am Power Yoga 9:30-10:30am Holy Yoga Gentle 4:15-5:15pm **Baby & Me Yoga 6:00-7:15pm Power Vinyasa Yoga 7:30-8:30pm Intermediate Yoga Wednesday 6-7am Sunrise-Mixed Level Yoga 8-9am Mixed Level Yoga 9:30-10:20am Mat Pilates (starts 9/30) 7-8pm **Yoga 101 Thursday 8-9am Holy Yoga Level 19:15-10:15amGentle Yoga 4:15-5:15pm **Fit To Deliver (Prenatal) Yoga 5:30-6:30pm Beginning Yoga Friday 6-7am Sunrise Yoga - Beginning 8-9amBeginning Yoga 10:30-11:20am Mat Pilates (starts 9/30) Saturday 7:30-8:30am Mixed Yoga 9-10am Gentle Yoga (Karma Yoga 2nd Saturdays - Bring food pantry item for FREE yoga) Yoga 101, An Introductory SeriesWednesdays, Dec 2, 9, 16, 7-8:20pmWednesdays, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27, 7-8:00pmAdvanced payment $40, payment day of class $50 ($65 Value)We are offering a three-week introductory class series for people who are new to yoga. Please visit www.InspiringActions.com

AWAKEN COUNSELING & WELLNESS River Ridge Professional Center, 1200 Hosford Street, Suite 101 HudsonOpen Meditations Every Tuesday Morning 8-8:30amDevelop a regular practice with others; although beginners are welcome, if no prior meditation experience, Meditation Instruction is recommended.

Meditation Instruction Offered the 1st Thursday of each month. 9-10am. Cost $35 Contact Maria @ 715-505-7268

Kundalini Yoga Thursdays, 10:15-11:30am. $15 class. Call Michelle to register 715-781-5180

RIVER MARKET CO-OP 221 North Main Street Ste 1, StillwaterThe fi rst Wednesday of every month is Wellness Wednesday, when you can receive 10% off all health and body items. Check out our website or call for more info. (651) 439 0366 or www.rivermarket.coop.

ST. CROIX CENTER FOR THE HEALING ARTS 411 County Hwy. UU, Hudson 715-381-1402 or www.sccha.com for registration/details.Tai Chi Ch’uan Yang Style with Connie Herris. Thursdays, 7:30-8:30am $6 per session

HEALING WATER QIGONG CENTER 516 2nd Street, Suite 208, HudsonCall or go online to register for all classes: www.healingwatersqigong.com, 715-381-8123Qigong (Spring Forest Qigong) - Learn powerful, gentle, yet simple movements that guide you in removing your energy blocks and develop your natural capability for helping yourself and others to heal physically, emotionally and spiritually. Qigong is comprised of four parts that all work together: breathing, gentle movements, mental focus, and sound.

Qigong: Instruction $100Saturday, November 14, 9am–5pm (1 hour lunch) Registration Deadline November 7Saturday, January 9, Saturday, 9am–5pm (1 hour lunch) Registration Deadline January 2

Qigong: Practice $60 or Punch CardThursdays, November 19 - December 17, 7–8pm (no 11/26)Registration Deadline November 12Thursdays, January 14 – February 11, 6–7pm (no 1/21)Registration Deadline January 7

Second Opinion | 24

Trusting Your Intuition ($45) – Learn to trust your own intuition through the use of pendulums, and other interactive practices. Wednesday, December 2, 12:30-2:30pmRegistration Deadline November 25Tuesday, December 8, 6–8pmRegistration Deadline December 1

The Map of the Body ($75) – Discover the energetic map of the body where emotions are held and felt. Understand at a deeper level why your body feels the way it feels. This knowledge can assist in consciously shifting past or current issues. Materials are included in cost.Saturday, December 12, 10am–12pmRegistration December 5Tuesday, January 26, 6–8pmRegistration January 19.

Magic of the Moment Meditation (Punch Card or $12/session) – Be in the present moment, still the mind, and breathing can create a happier you. Start your week by creating harmony in your life. Mondays, Starting November 9, ongoing, Noon–1pmNo registration deadline.

Bucket It and Chuck It ($39) – Recognize and release while manifesting your dreams. Create or refi ne your very own “Bucket” list. Thursday, January 7, 6:30–8pmRegistration December 31.

Register early, class sizes are limited! Punch Card or 10, available for $100.

MIND BODY SPIRIT INTEGRATION with Joni Polehna. Now Offering Group Transformation Sessions “Transform your thoughts; transform your life.” The 4th Thurs. of each month, 7-8:30 pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Ed. Center. 423 S. Fifth St., Stillwater. $15/person ($5 off if you bring a friend new to the work). Bring a belief, worry, uncomfortable memory, or performance issue you would like to feel differently about. You can keep it private. We’ll work through one issue as a group and everyone will “borrow benefi ts” to resolve their own issue. To register or for more info, mindbodyspiritintegration@usfamily.net or call 651-592-6181. Please bring water and a notebook/pen.

ROOT ENERGY 336 165th Ave Somerset WI 54025. 651-208-3650Monday – Gentle Yoga 1:30-2:30

Wed – Evening Yoga 6-7 pmThursday – Sunrise Yoga 6-7 amSaturday – 8:30-9:30am -

NATURAL BALANCE 219 North Main Street in Stillwater, MN.Tuesday 5:30am and 7pmThursday 10:20am Saturday 8am *If you are new to Pilates and the studio, please call to schedule an orientation as this is required before attendance in any class at Natural Balance 651-295-2198

LADY KATHERINE 1920 Crestview Drive, Hudson. info@lady-katherine.net or by phone at 952-220-2366. http://www.lady-katherine.net/ $18/single drop-in class; $15/class when you purchase 3 or more of a class that meets the same day/time weekly.

Signature Class: Mondays Nov. 16-Dec. 21, 5:30-6:30pmUsing the fl uid, fl owing exercise of feminine movement, we will reshape your core, bottom and legs.

Chair Dance: Mondays, Nov. 16-Dec. 21, 6:45-7:45pmA total body workout concentrating on toning, strengthening and reshaping your body.

Abs & Booty: Tuesdays Nov. 17-Dec. 22, 4:45-5:45pm; Thursdays, Nov. 19- Dec. 17, 6-7pmCreate toned, sculpted abs, shapely legs, and a fi rm booty.

Body Booty Camp: Tuesdays, Nov. 17-Dec. 22, 6-7pm; Thursdays, Nov. 19-Dec. 17, 4:45-5:45Burn over 600 calories in one class! Circuits of strengthening/fi rming interlaced with bursts of intense cardio activity. We will use the poles, resistance bands, weights, and fl oor work to achieve your fi tness goals.

Pole Dance: Tuesdays, Nov. 17-Dec. 22, 7:15-8:15pm; Wednesdays, Nov. 18-Dec. 23, noon-1pm; Thursdays, Nov. 19-Dec. 17, 7:15-8:15pmPole dance has a new routine each session, and is appropriate for ladies new or experienced at poling - we will customize the class to meet your needs. This class provides a total body workout with cardio benefi ts and overall strengthening/toning results.

• First months rent Free

• Flexible rent options

• Located behind Sacred Heart Hospital • Optional noon meal on site • Heat, water, sewer & garbage included with rent • Social and educational opportunities available • Beauty salon, Library & Recreation Room • Individual garages • Guest suite available • Card/Game room and Convenience store • Close to busline • Discount meals at Sacred Heart Hospital • Storage in apartment and basement

851 University Dr.Eau Claire, WI

Providing quality independent living for Seniors 62 and over since 1986

Feels like home...

Call 834-1338 for a brochure and/or tour.

OPEN HOUSE EVERY TUESDAY 2 - 4 P.M.