March 2008 News Briefs

Pilates Studio Opens in Vero Beach

Pilates of Vero offers authentic, traditional Pilates equipment training that adheres to the original work and principles of creator Joseph H. Pilates. Training sessions are conducted on the full range of Pilates equipment including the mat, reformer, wunda chair, Cadillac, and barrels. Sessions are limited to private and semi-private (two to three persons) in order to guarantee personal attention and safety.

Owner, Jayne McAllister, trained in New York City and is certified through Power Pilates, an international leader in classical Pilates teacher training. McAllister is currently the only Pilates instructor in Indian River County to hold the Pilates Method Alliance’s national certification. "I’m thankful every day for the level of training I received," says McAllister. "I’ve trained clients with multiple sclerosis; chronic back, neck and knee issues; hip replacements; lupus, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis and more."

Pilates of Vero is open Monday through Saturday by appointment and is located at 91 Royal Palm Pointe, Vero Beach. For more information call 569-5131, email info@pilatesverobeach.com, or visit www.pilatesverobeach.com.

Breast Cancer Ambassadors Needed

The Know Now Foundation (KNF) seeks Ambassadors interested in early breast cancer detection. The Foundation’s global initiative offers social entrepreneurs an opportunity to affect real change in a way that saves and enriches lives.

By purchasing Breast Chek Kits directly through the KNF program for $30, kits are gifted to women at risk or to an organization. Kits purchased may also be resold at the fundraising price of $40 as a fundraising initiative. All gifts of Breast Chek Kits gifted directly to KNF qualify for a 50% matching gift thereby significantly increasing the impact the donation.

Either individually or by starting a Kindness & Giving Circle by connecting friends and family, volunteers create a circle of people who share a passion and commitment. The circle’s members then generate an expanding ripple of kindness and contribution, all working together to spread the word and make a difference. The KNF mission is to get the kits to many women as possible and do all they can to save the thousands of lives needlessly lost because cancers were not detected early enough.

For more information, visit www.KnowNowMission.org or contact Jolie at 678- 894-4409. See ad online at www.myNaturalAwakenings.com and click on BreastChek for more details.

Scrubs and Wraps at Natural Approach

Natural Approach Acupuncture and Massage Center uses various techniques such as acupuncture, massage, cupping, Korean Hand Therapy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine products in their practice. Their latest additions are salt scrubs, sugar scrubs, and body wraps. Body scrubs not only exfoliate dead skin cells, but they also help stimulate and circulate lymph fluids which aid in the elimination of toxins. Body wraps require a scrub prior to treatment with choices including anti-aging, detoxifying, and replenishing of nutrients. All treatments are followed by an application of body butter for moisturizing.

Center is located at 1101 W. Hibiscus Blvd. #105, Melbourne, FL. For more information call 321-725-2438 or visit www.MyNaturalApproach.com.

Sebastian Location for Intuitive Life Coach

Lisa Zimmer Mahoney is now scheduling in-person consultations from her new office. An Intuitive Life Coach, Lisa says her sessions, "will accurately and compassionately detect present conditions as well as provide options and an outline for achieving goals."

Developing Intuition Workshops are also now available. "Intuition is our inherent gift from God. It teaches us survival," states Lisa. "We are taught that we have five senses, but in fact we have six. Intuition is the knowing of who is on the other end of the ringing phone, the feeling of flight from a dangerous situation, the unspoken look, and other so called coincidences that are in fact our intuition linking on a deeper, intimate level."

Lisa has over 25 years of experience working with law enforcement, local government, and institutions where insight and precision are paramount. Lisa is also a published writer and columnist, has developed Body, Mind, Spirit TV show, and is endorsed by Dr. Bernie Siegel, Dr. Wayne Dyer, and other pioneers in the field.

Office location is 1734 N. Central Ave., Sebastian, FL. For more information call 772-559-7241, email lmahoney6@comcast.net, or visit www.intuitiveconsultations.9f.com.

National War Casualties Exhibition

The American Friends Service Committee and area peace activists will honor fallen US military personnel and Iraqi civilians with its traveling exhibition, Eyes Wide Open: The Cost of War. This exhibit was first created by the AFSC to illustrate the lives lost in the war in Iraq. It first opened in Chicago's Federal Plaza with just over 500 pairs of boots in January 2004. The national exhibit was last displayed on Memorial Day weekend 2007 with over 3,400 pairs of boots. Since then the exhibition has been divided into state displays and traveled throughout the nation. All the state exhibits combined now include more than 3,945 pairs of combat boots representing US military casualties, along with a memorial to the tens of thousands of Iraqi civilians who have been killed in the conflict.

This will be Florida's first State Casualty Exhibit. It is hoped all will embrace the exhibit whether for or against the Iraq War, come together as a community, and honor our fallen Floridians on this day, the 5th anniversary of the war.

Event is Saturday, March 15, 10am-5pm, in the breezeway between the City Hall and the Civic Center, 565 Cassia, Satellite Beach. For more information contact Vicki Impoco at 321-720-3520.

Art of Peace and Spring Equinox Concert

Elaine Silver, a spiritual musician from Sarasota, will be performing music to honor the Art of Peace and the Spring Equinox. Elaine’s music has been described as, "stunningly clear and fine, magnificent, rich and supple," says Doreen DeSerres, owner of Nature’s Haven where the concert will be held.

Elaine sings a cappella or accompanies herself on guitar and banjo, and has performed at colleges, festivals, churches, clubs, and children's events throughout North America and Europe. She was featured on The Wisdom Channel and New Jersey Network's award-winning television program State of the Arts and received a Garden State Music Award for Outstanding Folk Performer. She has appeared in concert with Arlo Guthrie, Doc Watson, Tom Paxton, Suzanne Vega, Jorma Kaukonen, and Tom Chapin often teaming up with best-selling author Alan Cohen as accompanist for his workshops. "Her authentic music touches the hearts and minds of her listeners," says Doreen, "bringing magic, love, and blessings with a voice you’ll never forget."

Concert will be held Thursday, March 20 from 7-8:30pm at Nature’s Haven, 602 Brevard Avenue, Cocoa Village. For more information call 321-632-1221 or visit www.naturespirit.com.

Qigong Classes Available in Brevard

Richard Todd, BSAE, MBA and Certified Qigong Instructor, has recently been awarded certification by the Health Preservation Association (HPA) and the Qi Gong Wellness Institute as a non-medical health and fitness Qigong instructor. He has been registered with the National Qigong Association (NQA) as a Qigong Professional member since 2005 and became an NQA certified instructor in March of 2007.

Richard is now welcoming new students to his practice in Brevard County. Beginner lessons center on rapidly developing the awareness of and skill with the energy of vitality known as Qi. The focus is on individual progress both in private lessons and in group classes. Intermediate and advanced training is also available.

In addition, Richard uses Tai Chi fundamentals to supplement traditional Qigong practice. Students learn to use breath control, motion, visualization and internal focus to gather and direct this energy. "Practicing these skills bolsters the immune system, promotes endurance, and strengthens the cardio-vascular, pulmonary, integumentary and nervous systems," explains Richard. "Other benefits include balancing and regulating the digestive, reproductive, endocrine and musculoskeletal systems."

For more information call 321-631-6791 or visit www.rwtodd.net. See ad on page 44.

Local Soap Company Expands to Georgia

Indian River Soap is excited to announce the opening of an additional store in Savannah, Georgia. Owners Shoshanna and Corey Walker decided the popular Broughton Street shopping district was the best location for the new store called Nourish that has all the same products as the Melbourne store. "When deciding to expand, the most important thing was to make sure that the integrity and beliefs of Indian River Soap remained strong," shares Shoshanna.

Shelly Brumfield a long time friend of the family was chosen to manage the Melbourne store. Shelly is a local Floridian and has always had jobs involving customer service. "Shelly is excited about the opportunity and is doing great at keeping the fresh and creative ideas flowing at Indian River Soap," says Shoshanna. Shelly designs personalized gift baskets and will work with customers to create a unique gift.

Store location is 804 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne. Phone 321-723-6464 or visit www.Indianriversoap.com.

Low-Cost Blood Testing Available at Expo

Wuesthoff Reference Lab will be offering low-cost health screenings at the Healthy Living Expo on Saturday, March 8th at the Florida Tech Clemente Center until noon. The tests available include cholesterol screenings, CBC, Liver Function Test, hormones and more starting at just $5. These tests are available without a doctor’s order, provide easy access to your lab results and help you monitor your own health. Some tests may require fasting.

For details and pricing see ad on page 63. The expo will be held from 10am-5pm at the Florida Tech Clemente Center, 150 W. University Blvd in Melbourne. W. University Blvd is located between 192 and Palm Bay Road on Babcock. Find expo details on page 3 and page 53.

New Water Filtration System

Doug Carroll’s Health and Beauty Zone is excited to offer the availability of a new and unique water filtration system. Owner Doug Carroll advises, "This system filtrates ten times as much as a standard system, reduces odor, and most importantly it provides safe drinking water. Drinking water that’s free from impurities and waterborne microorganisms is vital to achieving a better, healthier lifestyle. This system uses ultra-violet light rather than chemicals to kill 99.9% waterborne bacteria," says Doug. The system also contains a carbon block filter to reduce contaminants such as pesticides, VOCs, mercury, and lead, and allows beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium to pass through. The system is used in homes and businesses for tap water, refrigerator water dispensers, and ice makers.

For more information contact Douglass Carroll at 321-795-5959, email douglasscarroll@yahoo.com, or visit www.dcarroll.qhealthbeauty.com.

10 Free Workshops Available at Expo

This year at the Healthy Living Expo on Saturday, March 8th you will find a plethora of fun workshops. Choose from topics such as Hormonal Influences on Stubborn Weight by Noel and Dr. Sonja Mountain, Simple Tools for Increasing Fertility by Acupuncture Physician Jennifer Nafe, and Sleep Apnea Solutions by Dr. Claire Stagg. Enjoy some down time in a relaxation workshop, learn how Feng Shui can impact your life, and meditate with Zen Master Al Rapaport.

To ensure your seat, sign up for your favorite workshops as you enter the event in the lobby. The full workshop schedule is listed in the Expo Program Guide Supplement starting on page 53.

The expo will be held from 10am-5pm at the Florida Tech Clemente Center, 150 W. University Blvd in Melbourne. W. University Blvd is located between 192 and Palm Bay Road on Babcock. For expo details call 321-777-6433 or visit www.HealthyLivingExpos.com. See ad on pages 2 and expo program guide on page 53 for all the details.

50/50 Drawing Raises Funds for Hospice

The Healthy Living Expo is proud to sponsor a 50/50 Drawing FUNdraiser with proceeds supporting Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice. The drawing will be held at the expo on Saturday, March 8th at the Florida Tech Clemente Center. "You can obtain your drawing entry at the expo starting at 10am," explains expo producer Laurie Davey. By nature, a 50/50 drawing is designed to award 50% of the funds to the lucky winner and 50% to the non-profit organization, so the prize amount will continue to grow as the day goes on. "For a suggested donation of just $5 you have a chance to win at least $500," explains Laurie. "What a nice way to support families in need and have fun too."

The Florida Tech Clemente Center is located at 150 W. University in Melbourne. University Blvd is located between 192 and Palm Bay Road on Babcock. The event is free to the public from 10am-5pm. The suggested donations include $5 for 1 chance/$10 for 3/$15 for 5/$20 for 7/$25 for 10. The drawing will be held about 4pm at the expo so tickets need to be obtained prior to 4pm. See ad on page 3 and Expo Program Guide starting on page 53.

New Location for Palms of Healing Massage Therapy

Jennifer Fischer, LMT is pleased to announce her new massage therapy practice working side by side with Dr. Michael Bishop at the Chiropractic Life Center. Jennifer holds a massage therapy license in New York and Florida as well as being nationally certified. Trained at the New York Institute of Massage in Buffalo, New York, Jennifer remains part of the Alumni.

Jennifer offers hot stone, pregnancy, and sports massage, deep tissue therapy, and specializes in areas of auto injury, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and depression. She also utilizes aromatherapy and essential oils and has chair massage and in-home therapy available. Jennifer is offering $10 off of a one hour massage to Natural Awakenings readers.

Office is located at 400 Barton Blvd, Ste 201, Rockledge, FL. (MA51606, MM15069) For more information call 321-626-9595.

Compassionate Warrior Workshop

The Kashi School of Yoga is offering a workshop on becoming the compassionate warrior. Participants will learn tools to conquer stress, increase vital energy in order to live happier and healthier lives, and work towards feeling empowered to experience and express their own strength. An introduction to martial arts will demonstrate how to break through obstacles with strength, balance and power. There will also be an introduction to yoga to provide participants with guidance on tapping an inexhaustible source of strength and power through awareness, visualization and meditation. These two ancient practices unite to allow everyday warriors to use their greatest weapon - compassion.

Workshop held on Saturday, March 15 from 1pm-5pm at The Kashi School of Yoga, 11155 Roseland Rd, Sebastian. Cost $40. For more information call 772-589-1403, ext 112 or visit www.kashi.org.

Tritt Wellness Center Grand Opening

Lee Tritt, OMD, AP is delighted to announce her expanded practice offering Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbs, body work, massage therapy, and hypnotherapy. Classes and workshops will also be featured at the new, spacious offices.

The open house celebration will offer free Chinese pulse and tongue diagnosis, chair massages, and treats from Whole Foods. Workshops will be available including the principles of Chinese Medicine, health benefits of an alkaline diet, and a demonstration of Chi Kung and hypnotherapy.

Dr. Lee and her staff will be at the celebration to answer questions. Dr. Lee says, "I want to help as many people as possible to regain their health and quality of life. We are about disease prevention and restoration of health, not management of symptoms."

Open house is Saturday, March 1, 10am to 4pm at 1071 Port Malabar Blvd, Suite 106 in the Town Center of Palm Bay. For more information call 321-676-3383, email acudoc@cfl.rr.com, or visit www.trittwellness.com.

Mars Venus Coaching Program

Melodie Tucker is excited to introduce Ask Mars Venus Telephone Coaching. This new program was created by Dr. John Gray, author of 17 Mars and Venus books, including his brand new release Why Mars and Venus Collide.

Melodie was trained by Dr. Gray and has been with the Mars Venus team since 1998. According to Coach Melodie, this program will help you achieve more personal, family, career, financial, and relationship success. "We know the secrets to truly finding happiness in all areas of your life. If you are struggling with a toxic relationship or job, are overwhelmed by stress, need healing after trauma, have lifestyle changes, or challenged by life in general, you will receive completely confidential coaching," explains Melodie. She also learned firsthand how to apply the Mars Venus skills in the workplace after spending 32 years in aerospace and management. Melodie is also available for speaking engagements or workshops.

For more information or to set an appointment, email melodie@marsvenus.com or visit www.askmarsvenus.com/coachmelodie/.

Vinyasa Flows into The Yoga Center

Vinyasa yoga classes offer a smooth dynamic flow and are now available at The Yoga Center. Vinyasa is an energetic class for those who want to deepen their practice, increase flexibility, tone, strengthen, and bring balance using sun salutations mixed with challenging postures. Instructors Joy Golding and Laurie Finnegan offer the serious yoga practitioner this challenging and stimulating class.

Belly dancing with Gigi Andreades has been added to the regular schedule of classes. The studio also offers a six-week pre-natal yoga program, workshops on Qi-Gong, yoga for golf and athletics, along with the regular posture training programs.

For more information visit www.YogaCenterMelbourne.com or call 321-728-0300. The Yoga Center is located a half mile from Rt. 192, near Rt. I-95 at 1540 S. John Rhodes Blvd., Melbourne.

Positive Change Announces New Programs and Personnel

Positive Change Health Center in Sebastian, run by husband and wife team Michael Gallarano and Jan O’Han, is pleased to announce the addition of new spring programming as well as new personnel. Liz Stewart, Licensed Massage Therapist and Jennifer Brown, Program Director and yoga instructor have joined the practice.

New programs include the return of yoga in a newly remodeled yoga studio, yogic philosophy and meditation classes, weekend workshops for couples massage, and self-help massage lead by resident massage therapists. Whole and live foods cooking classes are also back by popular demand.

The center is located at 10480 U.S. Hwy. 1, in Sebastian. For more information call 772-589-6869 or visit www.positivecenter.com.

Local Youths Strike a Pose

The fifth annual International Yoga Asana Championship finals for the Bishnu Charan Ghosh Cup were held in Los Angeles during February. Yogis from around the world participated in this annual event that celebrates the practice through demonstration of asana (posture).

Two teens from Brevard won the honors of being chosen Florida Regional Championship junior delegates in the USA Finals: Kate Keuvalaar, 13 from Rockledge and Abbey Cain, 14 of Merritt Island both practice yoga at Bikram Yoga Merritt Island. Kate ranked first for the USA Junior female division and Abbey ranked third. Kate placed 2nd to a 14 year old from India and Abbey placed 5th in the International Finals. Another Bikram Yoga Merritt Island student, Chris Rutkowski, represented Florida in the Men’s Division in the USA Finals.

Bikram Choudhury is continuing his mission to incorporate yoga into the Olympics which requires the sport begin at a young age.

For a group class or demo for a meeting, party, or event, contact Suzanne Elliott at 321-452-YOGA or www.BikramYogaMI.com.

You Can Heal Your Life Workshop

Louise Hay’s book, You Can Heal Your Life, changed the lives of thousands of people worldwide, Vera Hennessy being one of them. After using Louise’s teaching for 22 years, Vera is now leading workshops based on the teachings and techniques of Louise Hay. "We can change our thinking," says Vera. "We have the power to change our lives, and the world."

Vera has led workshops in three different countries, and loves to see the reaction of the workshop’s participants at the end of the two days. "After going through the exercises, people have an amazing transformation," shares Vera. "They recommend their friends and relatives."

For more information about location and workshops dates visit www.verahennessy.com  or call 321-600-0827.