EcoFamily News

Dahn Yoga - Ilchi Lee Founder

2012-01-27T14:33:00.000-08:00

Last year my good friend Mike (and his wife Talia) invited me to attend a lecture by Ilchi Lee. Lee is the founder of Dahn Yoga, a holistic mind-body exercise program that utilizes Ki energy to maximize the potential of the brain. Dahn Yoga began in South Korea in the early 1980's, which is where Lee himself was born. Today there are Dahn Yoga center located all over the world, with a large following right here in California.

Lee's English is minimal, so the whole lecture was spoken in Korean and translated into English through an interpreter. He began day by giving us a little background on himself, explaining how as a child he had experienced a common learning disorder that is now known today as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). One of the advantages of this childhood affliction was that it inspired him to develop various meditation and yoga techniques to help other
kids overcome similar learning challenges and be able to center themselves. To date, he and one of his associates, Dave Deal, owner of the National Brain Education Center in New York, have started over 300 schools utilizing the Dahn Yoga brain vibrational techniques.

Lee goes on to ask, "How can we live our best life?" “How do you manage and utilize your energy?” and suggests using different methods of body focus to achieve this best life practice. For example, “I love my flute” he shares, “but I didn’t know how to play it.” “If I could learn how to play it, I’d be able to express my love for it.”

He explained that when he learned to play the flute there were no mistakes because there was no sheet music, so he was able to play the flute perfectly. He proceeded to play a beautiful piece for us … and yes, he has learned to play the flute quite impressively. The room was completely filled with love by the sound of this beautiful flute, fueled by Lee’s breath.

Living is life, and how you manage your life, is living your life. There are no assurances of tomorrow, what matters is the now. Most people are carrying attention outside of themselves, which can produce fear and anxiety. However, when you turn the focus inside, something very different happens – the mind becomes calm and serene.

There are three factors that indicate we are alive and sustaining energy: breathing, the beat of the heart, and brain waves. The breath can be held for long periods of time and you still live. If the heart stops beating sometimes it can be started again. But if your brain waves stop, you die.

Many things can influence brain waves: our thoughts, emotions, as well as various external factors can all play a part, even our body posture can change brain waves. Emotions are energy and Lee’s work revolves around Ki energy. Lee describes consciousness as being awake while your brain waves are in a state of total relaxation - or sleeping.

Most people are only using 5% of their body capability because they are carrying attention outside of themselves. When you turn the focus to the inside and learn how to harness the Ki energy, the energy shifts. Travel inspires curiosity and hope.

We were then prompted to watch a short video of Natalia Avseenko an amazing woman who can hold her breath under water for over 12 minutes. Lee felt her abilities were a nice example to show that the key to controlling energy is through the breath, and believes that through special breathing methods, one can overcome their limitations.

Lee's prediction for 2012 – that it would be an era of Spiritual civilization, a state of matter and spirit wisdom to open to managing energy and the brain to heal the world’s problems. Currently we are in a material civilization – selfish desires to control and possess and the problems between humans and nature are serious. It’s an exploding state. He advises, now is the time to prepare for this new era - cleanse, dream, be happy. Trust yourself and show your transparent true spirit. Live in the present and allow your brain and spirit to reflect your true inner reality of the present moment.

Lee then told us an amazing story about one woman’s journey of harnessing energy for her own healing. Bette Castoria (hear her story) woke up one morning with a major headache, double vision and was throwing up – this continued for over a week. She thought she had the flu, but it turned out to be an inoperable brain tumor (Feb 2011). Castoria had been a Dahn Yoga instructor and student of the Life Particles training (a training Lee himself had developed) for many years and began utilizing her knowledge immediately, envisioning specs of gold and white Life Particles (basic essence of life) entering her body. Because of the support of the Dahn community she had also been put on a group prayer and Life-Particles healing list where prayers and Life Particles were sent to her every morning at 9:30am. By May of 2011, the brain tumor was gone. Some might call this miracle coincidence, but you can decide for yourself.

Ilchi Lee's artwork

Reflecting on his own experiences Lee suggests, “Focus on yourself and see and feel the miracles. Love yourself. Meet with the creator within you through breathing.” He then taught us a simple breathing technique used in many cultures/practices throughout the world - three breaths in (on one inhale), and three out (on one exhale) – for five minutes – in through the nose, out through the mouth. Sternly he reminds us to stay focused on the breath and nothing else, which became relatively an interesting exercise when thirty seconds into the meditation the fire alarm in the convention center went off and an announcement came over the loud speaker, “This is an emergency, please leave the building immediately”. Lee advised us not to move and to keep breathing. Disregard the alarm and stay focused on your breathing! While it wasn't a real time part of Lee's exercise, it certainly was a cosmos instilled challenge with humor of learning how to be able to stay focused. Interestingly enough, no one moved - everyone stayed focused and kept breathing. Fortunately it turned out to be a false alarm. (Editor’s Note: The room was truly within 45 feet of the outside world, so if it had been a true emergency we would have been able to leave quickly.)

To date I have not experienced the Dahn Yoga technique, however the day I spent with Lee definitely sparked my interest, and came with a one-month gift certificate for classes – you can be sure I’ll be taking advantage of the gift.

Ilchi Lee has created many training programs and methods, authored dozens of books, and founded a variety of for-profit and non-profit organizations. For more info visit - www.dahnyoga.com

"Autism is Awesome" Benefit Concert Jack Black & Stephen Stills

2011-10-30T20:02:00.000-07:00

far right: Lexy Aaron, Wyatt Issacs & Rio Wyles

On October 4, 2011, The Miracle Project present- ed a free “Autism is Awesome” benefit concert at The Grove in Los Angeles to bring greater awareness to the miracles and possibili- ties for children with autism.

Autism the Musical, an HBO Emmy-Award win- ning documentary, (2008) introduced the world to The Miracle Project’s amazing work with autistic children. The Miracle Project, founded in 2004 by Elaine Hall and Diane Issacs, is a multi-platform socialization program that enables children and teens with autism and other special needs, to express themselves through music, dance, acting, story, and writing.

Henry Stills & Max Burkholder

The night’s concert starred Wyatt Issacs and Lexi Aaron (kids from Autism the Musical) with the Fly Singers, Stephen Stills, Jack Black, Max Burkholder, Scott Siegel, the Agape Choir (Adult and Youth), plus many others.

Fourteen-year-old Max Burkholder, who plays an autistic son on the hit weekly series ‘Parenthood’ (NBC TV), Wyatt and Henry Stills (Stephen Stills son – also in the documentary) helped introduce performers throughout the night.

The concert delivered fabulous performances that stunned and amazed the audience. Most of the kids and teens performing that night are autistic. Stephen Stills, Jack Black and Wyatt Issacs jammed hard while singing I'm Sensitive, and the Fly Singers brought with them remarkable talent and shear inspiration.

Stephen Stills & Jack Black

The benefit was recorded and will air on ABC this fall on “Everyday Health,” a new series from the producers of “The Biggest Loser. The Miracle Project is excited to be part of such a significant show, while giving new meaning to the term Autism is Awesomism!!

Special thanks to Elaine Hall, Founder, President and visionary, and Diane Issacs (Wyatt's mom), Co-Founder & Creative Director of The Miracle Project for all your hard work in creating this profound creative forum for these special kids - well done.

For more information visit www.themiracleproject.org


Jack Black & Stephen Stills rock'n The Groove


Stephen Stills supports Nick Guzman playing his song Helplessly

Young Rapper Rio Wyles MC Soulshocka

Nick Guzman & Jack Black

Stills & Black receive special award from Wyatt Issacs

Group hug!

Devin Weitz & The Fly Singers

Wyatt, Diane Issacs presenting RJ Peete with an award

Stephen Stills enjoying the night

Jack Black getting his point across

Stills & Black deep in thought

The enthusiastic crowds - standing room only

Wyatt, Diane & Elaine Hall waiting to go on stage

A fan in the crowd

lol ... Wild Jack Black getting down!

All photos on this blog are ©Kathy Arnos and the property of Eco Family News

The Tree Ceremony – Honoring a Landmark of the SFV

2011-10-18T22:03:00.000-07:00

Ceremony honoring Aleppo

On October 12, 2011, twenty neighbors on Kittridge Street in Van Nuys gathered together to honor and celebrate the life of one of the oldest native tree spirits of the San Fernando Valley – that of a 300-year-old Aleppo Pine – standing 150 feet tall.

When news of the sale of this beautiful Van Nuys property brought with it word that the tree that gave shade to more than half the block was too tall to insure, the new owners were devastated – as were all the neighbors. Under great pressure from the mortgage and insurance companies – that would not complete the sale, or insure the property if the tree stayed – the owners gave in. Who would have thought that liability fears of mega companies would one day take the life of this beautiful historic landmark?

The neighbors that arrived early

We (all the neighbors) had been talking about the impending doom for a month, but were still taken aback when we literally heard the buzzing sound of the chainsaw. When I realized what the sound meant, I ran down the street to see what was going on. My friend Kathy who lives a few houses east of the tree was also out there. She had been raised on Kittridge and had enjoyed many hours of imaginative play under the pine’s shaded branches. After a quick convening of the minds, it was decided that we would hold an honoring ceremony that night for Aleppo’s life.

Suzanna gives thanks & says goodbye

We rallied all the neighbors and met in front of the tree as the full moon came up in the night’s sky. One by one people began sharing stories about the tree and the areas history, weaving a tapestry of time to reflect upon. What I learned that night was that Aleppo once served as the defining landmark for finding Van Nuys from Mulholland Drive (before there were large buildings), and that Kittridge Street was the main road that led to the area developer’s estate (over a century ago). We aren’t sure if it was that of Isaac Newton Van Nuys, or one of the other developers?

Nine-year-old Suzanna was the first to approach Aleppo over the yard filled obstacle course of fallen trunk. She forged right up and began to talk to the tree and pray as she wrapped her arms as far around as they would go. I was quickly behind her and then slowly one by one the others joined us. We all took turns giving thanks for her years of service to us, while asking forgiveness for what had begun that day – the final chapter. Some of us cried with Aleppo as her sap ran out of her like tears down a cheek, dripping freely onto my (our) head(s). The ground was so thick with her essence that my feet stuck to the dirt below me.

Over the course of the next few days, with permission from the new owners (and the spirit of the tree), each of us took pieces of her trunk/branches to make chairs and tables – something to hold in memory and reflect on of our cherished tree spirit friend - Aleppo.

It is with great gratitude that we honor your beautiful tree spirit – you will be greatly missed.

October 12th - Day 1

October 13th - Day 2

Kathy watches Steve the new owner giving thanks to Aleppo


Me giving Aleppo a hug


Day 4

Day 4

Day 5 - Another piece free falls

Day 6

Kathy's Favorite Finds At Natural Products Expo 2011

2011-08-09T21:36:00.000-07:00

Every year I embark on a new adventure when attending the Natural Products Expo in Anaheim CA. My mission – to have a good time, connect with old friends, meet new ones, and find Kathy's Favorite Products that truly are healthy and sustainable.

For me (and hundreds of others) the weekend always starts off with the Organic Farmers Research Foundation's (OFRF) meet and greet luncheon on Thursday. The OFRF is a non-profit organization that sponsors organic farming research and education projects, disseminates the results, and educates the public and policymakers about organic farming issues.

This year the incredible cuisine was once again orchestrated by chef Donna Prizgintas, along with her team of equally remarkable chef's including Akasha Richmond, Jesse Cool and Beth Miller. Fabulously delicious. To see my favorite finds ...

Ocean activist Philippe Cousteau of EarthEcho International (Jacques Cousteau's grandson) spoke and shared his thoughts about the important role the organic community will play in helping to sustain our natural resources while continuing to meet food production needs. "We’ll have to increase food production by 70 percent or three billion people will go hungry by 2050.” Thankfully, more and more people are understanding the importance of organic and sustainable living practices for our future.

Kathy's 2011 Favorite Finds at Expo West 2011:

Spoonk – This massage acupressure mat is ingenious and has been one of my most treasured gifts from the show this year. It has 6,210 small acupressure stimulation points (applied with heat/not glue) that apply equal pressure on your body. I use it every morning when I do my meditation. I start by sitting in a chair with a bare back against Spoonk – 20 minutes – then I move the spiny mat to the floor and put both feet on it while I write my morning pages (15-20 minutes). I always feel refreshed and ready for my day after being stimulated by this unique mat. At night I’ll lay on it for a few minutes while I unwind from the day, and admittedly have actually fallen asleep on it many times.

The cover is made with variations of either organic hemp or organic cotton materials dependent on the color. The inner foam is plant-based and contains no chemicals (e.g. fire retardant, petrochemicals, adhesive glue) that outgas and it comes in great travel case. Spoonk is made in the USA – yippy, a true winner. www.spoonkspace.com

Definition of Spoonk? A name inspired by Pippi Longstocking, the fictional children’s character who had superhuman strength, boundless energy and a love for life. Find your SPOONK with Spoonk™ Mat. Check out this cute video of Pippi to get the full essence of the name. Click here

SafSlim™ – Do you have the belly fat blues? If you’re like me, you probably never knew that there are different kinds of fat in the body (it all looks the same to me), good and bad. There is actually a long list of different types of fat, but with regard to SafSlim™ – here’s the skinny on fat – those fat cells around that middle area are a combination of subcutaneous (the insulating layer of fat just beneath the skin that buffers us from the cold and stores calories) and omentum fat (which sits in the front of the stomach, or covers the liver). Both types of fat are considered unhealthy if one carries too many extra pounds of it.

You can learn all about these fats (and more) in detail in a small, but concise book, Belly Fat Breakthrough! By Karlene Karst, R.D. where she describes the process of how the body utilizes calories and converts them into different fats. This book is a great resource and taught me so much about the body (easy read in a few hours). The last chapter is all about SafSlim™ – a proprietary blend of non-GMO, high-linoleic safflower oil that contains no artificial flavors, sweeteners or food color dyes. It has an orange creamy taste and I always feel nicely energized when I take it, even though it contains no stimulants – how easy is that? According to the company, one recent university study regarding the use of safflower oil showed a 9.4% reduction in belly fat over a 16-week period. SafSlim™ is currently conducting a belly fat challenge - check it out – http://tinyurl.com/3gnxe2r

Atacora Essential-Baobab Fruit Pulp (powder) & Oil – When I saw David Goldman holding this unusual fruit at Expo west I couldn’t help but stop and chat … and boy was I glad I did. Goldman’s company Atacora Essential sports fair-trade nutritional and skin care products. The Baobab fruit is a super fruit from West Africa that is rich in vitamin C and calcium in a really pure absorbable form; is a great source of soluble fiber (pectin - really great for digestions) and has antioxidant properties. The powder has a sweet/tart taste and I sprinkle it on my morning fruit salad, include it in shakes and stir it into yogurt – I simply love it. I started taking it in March and breezed through the flu and allergy season without even a sneeze!

I also love the moisturizing benefits of the Baobab Seed Oil, which is also wild harvested, virgin cold pressed and full of antioxidants, vitamins (A,D,E & F) and Omegas 3,6 & 9 fatty acids. Admittedly, I am a sun worshiper in the summer months and have found this beautiful oil very soothing for my baked skin. Goldman’s devotion to helping the indigenous people of the Atacora region address social justice issues and learn about sustainable practices has been a true asset in helping to build a strong community foundation for their future … from tree to consumer. Thanks David for sharing the benefits of this delicious fruit with us via your great products, well done. www.atacoraessential.com

Incredisocks by Incrediwear – These comfy socks are made from 100% organic bamboo charcoal and natural fibers from five-year-old mature Moso Bamboo found in the high mountains of Taiwan. The bamboo charcoal has natural antimicrobial properties that eliminate odor and release good infrared anions (atoms or groups of atoms that have gained electrons) that increase circulation. Many athletes/doctors have found relief from chronic and/or acute foot/leg pain, as well as great benefits during or after racing/competitions for healing and recovery. The special weave gives you lots of good cushion and wicks away foot moisture as well. The company offers knee braces, socks – everyday, sport and dress.

I seem to be missing one of my pairs of sport socks … perhaps my daughter has borrowed them again … she loves them too. Unfortunately, there website doesn’t mention all of the products sustainable qualities and health benefits as outlined on their packaging … wonder why? www.incrediwear.com

GoodLight Natural Candles – Yes it’s true, sustainable, healthy candles – all shapes and sizes, tea lights, taper and pillar. These beautiful unscented candles are made from 100% sustainably farmed palm wax and contain no paraffin or petroleum products. I enjoy adding a few drops of different essential oils when I burn the tea lights for that extra special touch.

Owners, Jon and David have been obsessed with producing natural candles ever since they read the studies about the carcinogenic chemicals in paraffin fumes, and realized that most of those paraffin candles are coming straight from Chinese sweatshops where all sorts of other dangerous additives are added. They offer businesses and consumers a clean burning alternative candle with responsible prices. Thanks guys. www.naturalcandles.com

Urban Moonshine Bitters – The root of good health is great digestion. Here's a brief history of bitters: Cultures around the world have long believed that bitter flavors are essential to good health because they stimulate the digestive system. Thus began the tradition of steeping bitter-tasting roots, leaves, berries and fruits in alcohol and serving the mixture before or after a meal. Bitters help tone, strengthen and build digestive health; improve endogenous production of digestive enzymes; support the production of bile; stimulate bile release from the liver among other things.

Urban Moonshine is a small family business started by herbalist Jovial King. All the ingredients are certified organic, wild crafted and the company supports local farmers and is a member of the United Plant Savers. I love my little travel size bitters - I carry it in my purse and use it often.. www.urbanmoonshine.com

Herbalix™ Restoratives (Natural Deodorant) – This was a great find … My favorite is their Geranium deodorant. This unique detox deodorant actually helps cleanse away toxic buildup in the body to release waste fluids, encourages healthy lymphatic flow, and absorbs all types of aluminums, encouraging a reduction in daytime odors (works for me). What more could you ask for?

Herbalix™ also offers a nighttime detox deodorant that is formulated to attract, absorb and cleanse bacterium and metal ions from the underarms without any form of aluminum. The organic detoxifying ingredients work at night and provide 6 to 8 hours of safe and efficient absorption of accumulated debris and odors. You can learn more about the detox deodorant product options on their website. www.herbalix.com

I ran into Dr. Hiliary Smith in their booth, the founder of the Breast Thermography Center in Sherman Oaks who spoke very highly of the product. I’ve been going to Dr. Smith for years for my annual safe, natural and painless breast thermography exam/evaluation - very different than mammogram detection, but equally as effective. www.thebreastthermographycenter.com/

Fabe's All Natural Bakery - Gluten Free Cookies - Even if I wasn't on their marketing team (which I am), I'd be plugging these fabulously delicious cookies that are Sweetened by Nature™ with fruits, veggies and grains - that deliver a gourmet taste that even kids love! Be sure to check out their new Gluten Free flavors - Dark Chocolate, Cranberry Orange and Ginger Snap (plus an old favorite flavor - Organic Macaroon). They just melt in your mouth. Enjoy! www.fabesnatural.com

There were many other wonderful products this year that you're sure to hear about in future blogs or e-newsletters ... stay tuned.

I would love to hear about your experiences with any of these products. Please feel free to send me your comments ... thanks. Be sure to sign up for our e-news at www.ecofamilynews.com

MTV Movie Awards Eco Lounge

2011-06-22T00:02:00.000-07:00

MTV Movie Awards Eco Lounge Gift Suite

I recently had the pleasure of attending Debbie Durkin’s MTV Movie Awards Eco Lounge two-day event held in a gated community at the famed mansion of the hit TV show 90210. I arrived at the event early to help my friends with Fabe’s All Natural Bakery (healthy gourmet desserts without refined sugar) set up for the weekend when suddenly there was a thundering sound overhead – a helicopter – along with plenty of emergency sirens. It was obvious that something big was happening and we were smack dab in the middle of it all. Without going into the situation in this blog here is a link to the media coverage that followed – http://tinyurl.com/3lsq5ht – Interestingly enough, I happened to be the only media source in the prestigious locked down estate community and began interviewing the sponsors of the event as the swat teams surrounded the area.

I knew we were approaching the lunch hour when my stomach began growling along with the rotating blades of the helicopters above, so what better place to start my interviews than with celebrity Chef Stacie Rauch of The Personal Palette. Lucky me … I was served up some of Rauch’s delights of Israeli rainbow couscous with roasted veggies, rice wrapped spring rolls (veggies, tofu and chicken choices) and vegan banana-date cookies with no refined sugar … all amazingly wonderful.

While a gathering of celebrities and other media sources continued to grow at the front gate (still in lock down) I continued exploring – next stop was the R.E.U.S.E (Recycle. Environment. U. Save. Earth.) jean table – where I met Tiffany Powell, who’s six year old son was the inspiration to her dad’s innovative recycled jean business. In noticing the waste his grandfather’s company was generating from his jean manufacturing business (for big names), he asked, “Isn’t there a place where we can recycle jean scraps, like we recycle plastic bottles?” and a brilliant new business was born. I always say, “Out of the mouth’s of babes usually spouts, innocent creative ideas – if we just take the time to listen.”

The other sponsors that caught my attention were Rebecca Mink with Mink Shoes who’s trail blazing efforts in creating sustainable and humanly responsible high end chic shoes is commendable – check out her video/shoes www.minkshoes.com, Global U.S. Solar who’s working with Durkin Entertainment to produce concerts to support organizations for kids needs, and Athena’s Cup, a breast cancer awareness and fundraising campaign that seeks to create the world’s longest bra chain while educating the masses.

While there were hundreds of celebrities in attendance some of the highlights of my day included a little sit down time with 2x Emmy winner Kathryn Joosten of Desperate Housewives, who spoke about her personal journey with breast cancer and recovery, and the importance of healthful living, and a sweet encounter with the talented young actress Isabella Rae Thomas of Brothers and Sisters who shared about not knowing what comes next with the cancellation of the show.

Musician/songwriter Jenni Alpert was not only one of the weekends performers, but also coordinated a wonderful array of other talented artists that had attendees dancing their way through the day. Great job Jenni, thanks for the fabulous mood appropriate experience.

As it was quite an intimate gathering most people found themselves repeatedly hovering around the Fabe’s All Natural Bakery table, which is where I caught up with most of celebrities identifying their favorite cookie flavors! Below were some of the celebrities and their cookies!

Kathryn Joosten (Desperate Housewives)


Willie Gault (Chicago Bears) and wife Suzan


James Kyson-Lee (Heroes)

Damian Perkins (CSI: Miami)

Noah Dahl (Bad Teacher)

Jacki Tohn (American Idol)

Curtis Young (Recording Artist)

Kameron Safford & Friend in Cookie Toast

(Saddle Ranch VHI)

Tony Denison (The Closer)


Kathy Arnos & Isabella Rae Thomas (Brothers & Sisters)

Lela Brown (Now)

Patrick Simpson & Pol Atteu (BH Designer)

Impromptu song

Musician, singer, songwriter Jenni Alpert - the weekend music coordinator!

Thank you Debbie Durkin, Durkin Entertainment for a great event!!!

Learning How To Meditate - From A Man In Jeans And A T-Shirt?

2011-01-24T23:19:00.000-08:00

Being a student of life, I find myself continuously open to exploring new ways of learning, both about myself, and the world around me. Last December I was at Marianne Williamson’s Tuesday night lecture in Los Angeles, and as usual the message was exactly what I needed to hear. During one of her interludes she announced a friend of hers, actor/author Jeff Kober, was presenting a free introduction to Vedic Meditation the following Sunday, and so I decided to go.

I arrived at a small boutique shop where there was a man in jeans and a t-shirt sitting in the speakers seat. He began with a story about going to India and sitting in meditation, where in the end what he walked away with was sore knees/ankles and frustration because he was still having trouble quieting his mind … clearly this man was talking my language.

My definition of meditating was plain and simple – it was something I could do while weeding or planting in the garden, while swimming laps, shoveling horse manure, taking a hike, or my most favorite time, the few moments just before falling asleep. All of these routines were where I found my alone time with my thoughts – a time for reflective inner conversations. A time where I could pray, reason things out and be quiet long enough to hear that inner voice – my higher power of consciousness.

Despite my belief in my own version of mediation, I couldn’t exactly call it quiet mind time, but rather a time when my thoughts were just more relaxed and slowed down. After hearing Kober speak I thought I might be able to finally learn the true art of meditation. Mind you, I still consider all of my previous forms of what I will call my walking meditations, quite relevant, but not the experience that brings with them the ability to really quiet the mind, be/sit still, and totally be present to what Kober calls a de-excitation state.

In a humble, yet very powerful little ceremony, Kober gave me my special Mantra – a sanskrit word that actually means nothing. The word translates into Hebrew 'bohuw' which means: emptiness, an undistinguishable ruin, a mindless state ... truly nothing. Kober describes this happy word (mantra), as a mind vehicle connecting us to all that is – a divine source, nature. Something that helps transport us to a state of de-excitation and quietness, present time.

Kober also explained how thoughts are just stored emotions (stress) releasing, and feelings are body sensations moving through us. As we are all unique individuals, we each have to find our own perfect teacher. Since I'm very much a jeans and t-shirt kind of woman, I was honored to learn this ancient art of meditation - an invaluable gift - from someone who dressed accordingly, and spoke my language. I found Kober’s course to be the exact experience I was looking for in learning how to live in the present moment, and navigate the art of meditation in a modern day society. It provided me with the tools and inspiration I needed to fully connect to this ancient art and incorporate it into my everyday life easily and effortlessly. All in all, it literally taught me how to come to my senses – all five of them. I completed the course one month ago today and continue to meditate daily - miracles happen - thank you for the gift of meditation!

For more information on Jeff Kober’s course please visit www.jeffkobermeditation.com

Environmental Charter High School Celebrating 10 Years of Green Education

2010-11-19T20:08:00.000-08:00


Left: Taylor, Colter, Laimon, Diaz

The Environmental Charter High School (ECHS), founded by Alison Suffet Diaz, celebrates ten years of service to the community this year. Suffet-Diaz and friend Sara Laimon, founder of the Green Ambassadors Institute (with the help of many others) joined forces and created an exceptional school that has become a true model for sustainable education.

The school and program is a community-based hands-on learning experience for under-served youth that inspires them to be part of the solution - to be the change they want to see in the world. ECHS currently offers schools throughout California an award-winning college prep curriculum as an excellent blueprint and has an impressive success rate (97%) of students continuing on to college. Through a unique partnership with Global Green USA, ECHS plans to roll out their sustainable program to schools nationwide in 2011. ECHS also received recognition this year as one of six high schools in the nation to make it to the finalists for President Obama's "Race to the Top" Commencement Challenge.

Darren Moore and Boise Thomas

On November 6th – celebrities, business owners, environmentalists, and many others came together to celebrate ECHS's ten years of accomplishments, and support their ReThink: Green Charity (fundraising) Event to help fulfill their dream. Among the celebrities supporting the mission were Ed Begley Jr, Rachelle Carson-Begley, Planet Green's Boise Thomas and Darren Moore, Lisa Ling, Anna Getty, MTV'S "Buried Life" cast members, "Heroes" James Kyson Lee, Ray Charles Jr, Shanica Knowles "Hannah Montana", Tamara Henry with Green T, etc. along with Rey Fresco, and the Make Peace Brothers performing on stage live.

Green Award recipients included Matt Petersen, President – Global Green, Mark God, President – Heal The Bay, Anna Cummins, Marcus Eriksen, Captain Charles Moore – Algalita Research Foundation's team, Dale Bell, Harry Wiland – Media Policy Center, Davis Guggenheim, director of "Inconvenient Truth” and “Waiting for Superman,” plus several other honorees. (A complete list of sponsors and honorees can be found at www.rethinkgreenevent.org.) Solar hybrid generators supplied all power to the event making it a 100% sustainable evening.

Liquid Lights Art

While there were a lot of wonderful artists displaying their fine works of art for the silent auction, three of my favorites were by Tanya Clarke with Liquid Lights, Eric Smith – photographer, and Micki Eskimo, collage artist with found materials.

And as usual, kudos to Dawna Shuman with Lighthouse PR and Nicole Landers for their great work on the event. Check out more pictures from the evening, and like us on Eco Family News' facebook page. We just started our page, so please help us grow it by spreading the word ... thanks.

Take Action - Prevent Childhood Obesity LAUSD 2011-12 Proposed Menu

2010-11-09T20:39:00.000-08:00

Local produce at one early meeting

We need your help in spreading the word about this important issue ... healthy food served in Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). I was recently asked to sit on the LAUSD’s Cafeteria Improvement Committee to make contributions to help improve the food served to the thousands of students in the schools district.

The Committee is in a rare position to make some dramatic changes to LAUSD's food menu for the 2011-12, but parent's participation is really critical to make these changes. This is your big chance to let the powers that be know that we want high fructose corn syrup and flavored milk taken off the menu (and any other thoughts) - an opportunity that won’t come around again for another five years.

Recently, LAUSD has started hosting menu planning subcommittee meetings to help improve the 2011-12 menu. The meetings are held every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30 AM to 11 AM downtown at 333 South Beaudry Ave on the 28th floor (discussion on the menu items will be finalized by Dec 16th - six more weeks). Just told no meetings between now and Thanksgiving. Time is now really of the essence.

The Committee administrators published/printed the prospective menu in the required places (newspapers, etc.) within the community for public comment, but unfortunately there were absolutely no comments, or responses from parents. Boo!!!

There are only a few of us in these meetings pushing for these changes and we need help. The current menus are online at http://cafe-la.lausd.net/Caf%C3%A9_LA_Menu and the new proposed menus can be downloaded here - elementary breakfast, lunch, or secondary breakfast, lunch (pdf).

We need parents to either join the conversation by attending the meetings, or to submit comments via email to ecofamilynews@yahoo.com (I'll print and hand deliver them to the committee and board members). Please post this information to your facebook, mommy blogs etc., anything and everything would be appreciated. WE NEED LETTERS and/or passionate voices in these rooms!!! Join us and be a voice for our CHILDREN!

Stand Up For Clean Energy ... Vote No On Prop 23

2010-10-22T22:16:00.000-07:00

Stand up for clean energy … “As the national leader in clean, renewable energy, California is showing us the way to a clean energy future. That’s why it’s so critical that we defeat Proposition 23.” www.repoweramerica.org

Stakeholders opposed Prop 23

Earlier this month I attended a press conference called by Governor Schwarzenegger’s office in collaboration with No on 23 – Californians to Stop the Dirty Energy Proposition – to bring attention to the dangerous potential impact of Proposition 23. Shangri-LA Construction hosted the event at their LEED built airplane hanger at the Burbank airport. Community stakeholders, business leaders, city officials, the San Fernando Valley Green Team and union workers were all on hand to support the opposition. That was also the day I saw the first television commercial alerting Californian’s about the nasties of Proposition 23.

Jennifer Berthelot Shangri-LA Const

Proposition 23 claims to want to ‘suspend’ California’s clean energy standards for air pollution control – the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 – put in place by AB32, which they say is temporary until the economy improves and unemployment numbers drop below 5.5%. Unfortunately, it appears that if Prop 23 were to pass, it would actually impede AB32’s landmark legislation and repeal its important clean energy goals for 2020.

California has been a true leader in the area of clean energy and continues to work hard to support sustainable education, development of new green jobs, protect the health of its stakeholders, their families (especially the children) and continues to make great strides in moving away from our dependence of fossil fuels.

On October 21, 2010 I saw the first television commercial funded by BIG oil companies supporting Prop 23! I was wondering when these BIG companies behind the bill, Valero and Tesoro (and other oil companies) were going to get aggressive with their dirty media blitz? Well … it has started!


Laid off Tesoro employees

One message in the ad promises to save a million jobs. However, union workers laid off earlier this year by Tesoro had a much different story to tell at the press conference when they showed up to help oppose the bill. A picture is worth a thousand words. Perhaps Tesoro didn’t get the memo that they were supposed to be saving jobs, not creating higher unemployment numbers … oops?

Anyway a speaker at Bioneers this past weekend said it very bluntly … “We as Californians have a responsibility, an obligation to our state – to show what we can do to create a competitive sustainable clean energy production market. AB23 is a great opportunity that will bring billions of dollars of investment and help create hundreds of thousands of desperately needed jobs. The bottom line ... Vote NO on Prop 23!!!!”

Please get involved and spread the word – www.repoweramerica.org is looking for able bodies to make outreach calls to educate people, donate money, etc. – see/hear Al Gore’s message on prop 23.

For additional information visit www.StopDirtyEnergyProp.com

Changing The Course Of Our Destiny

2010-09-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

Reverend Michael Beckwith

Rarely have I been moved to tears, deeply inspired, filled with joy, danced in the aisles, served some of the most flavorful vegetarian cuisine in town, all while breathlessly in awe of a collective presence of visionary leaders … This past Tuesday night was one of those extraordinary moments when Evolutionary Leaders from around the world gathered at UCLA. Their mission was clear, a call to action … a chance to change the course of our destiny!

This brilliantly choreographed evening accompanied by the Agape House Band throughout, was a show of unity, emotion, creativity, awareness, cooperation, and profound thought … truly a collective effort of passionate humanitarianism and love. As the visionary leaders began to arrive, the excitement and peaceful energy infused the Royce Hall patio.

Deepak Chopra

Michael Bernard Beckwith opened the evenings display of “spoken word” with a powerful evocation for the perfect unfolding of the nights gathering, while his lovely wife Rickie Byars accompanied him on piano.

Deepak Chopra then welcomed the audience and gave us a sobering look at the current situation of our world – 50% of which lives on less than $2 a day, 20% lives on less than $1 a day – that leaves a remaining 30%, many of whom despite their current abundant lifestyles, don’t have enough financial resources today to sustain their own material worlds. The sobering fact that most of my readers are among the richest percentage in the world, is something I myself can occasionally loose sight of. He warns, the human species has evolved to a level of depredation that is unprecedented and we are the predator of this planet – it is time for a conscious intervention, a conscious evolution.

Chopra asked us to literally turn our attention to who was listening in the room – to feel the presence of that soul consciousness in that moment – that’s all that is real about us – that is the transcended presence – it is insight, intuition, the power of intention, a new imagination, new creativity, conscious choice, the ability to hear ourselves, and the planet. It’s with this intention that the Evolutionary Leaders have come together as one collective consciousness. Their mission – to invoke a growing movement of thousands of evolutionary leaders – all of us!

The amount of wisdom, humbleness and love that poured from these leaders was an experience that no words could ever describe. I believe each and every one of us who attended the event would love the opportunity to share our heart-felt emotional experience with the world. Most everyone in the audience was moved to tears as their hearts were filled with compassion, laughter, joy, hope and inspiration!

Chopra also shared, Rumi the great poet said, “You are not just a drop in the ocean, but rather an ocean in the drop,” which is a poignant reminder that all we need is a little shift in the perspective of who we are. It’s time for us to come out of the circle of time and into the circle of love. Love is the ultimate truth at the heart of creation. We are members of a single body, energy field, information field, but most important, we are one consciousness.

There is no way to transform the world other than through our own transformation. We need to embark on a new journey of innovation, a level of conscious creative solutions for every situation that is happening in our world.

Joan Borysenko relects with the Evolutionary Leaders

Joan Borysenko delivered an inspiring refection of the evening, reminding us that “Our children are our elders in universe time – Let's support the youngest among us, to be great leaders too.”

So as a collective consciousness, what can we do to be part of the solution? Be of service to this conscious evolution! Join in and be part of this collective intention experiment, this call to action – participate, support, contribute.

Lex Lang, Jeffrey Kramer, Sandy Fox

Among many other’s who supported the brilliance of the evening (behind the scenes) were chef Jeffrey Kramer, owner of the Topanga Catering Company serving up some of the most incredible vegetarian flare that inspired health conscious actress, Erin Gray to chase one of the servers for another samosa. Also, Sandy Fox and Lex Lang were offering up bottles (100% post consumer recycled plastic - R-PET) of their H2Om “Water With Intention” along with their new signature series of stainless steel reusable water bottles infused with a visual and energetic mandala designed to inspire us all to create positive loving intention in your everyday lives!

Tamara Henry and Jack Canfield

Some of the media presence included Lisa Garr of The Aware Show, Tamara Henry of the award-winning Green T web-series and Kelly Carlin (George’s daughter) who’s getting ready to launch her new Internet Radio show – I’ll post more on that as I receive info. Thanks Kelly for the random act of kindness you displayed in our seat switch! You’re a rock-star of grace (and comedy with your tai chi expressive moves … lol).

And last, but certainly not least, no event is complete without spectacular music, and that we had throughout the night, starting with the Rickie Byars Beckwith, the Agape House Band playing during the entire event, and ending with the incredibly talented and Grammy Award-Winning Siedah Garret – who wrote the infamous Man In The Mirror. She was only scheduled to perform the one song (accompanied by Michael “Fish” Herring on guitar with the Agape Choir), but before she presented us with that gift, she sang another song that she was inspired to write specifically for the Conscious Evolution, which she performed for the first time – What If The Answer Is Always love? This new song of divine passion was an amazing prelude to a rock'in ending to the night, and beginning of a profound movement of Conscious Evolutionary New Co-Leaders – we the people!

Evolution Leaders getting down on stage with Siedah Garrett

Get involved and join the movement … be part of the solution now, and on 11-1-11 in Washington D.C. for 1 voice • 1 Mission • 1 Force • 1 Heart • 1 Future – for more information visit www.evolutionaryleaders.net.

To see additional behind the scenes photos click here.

Editor note: A special thank you to Dawna Shuman with Lighthouse Public Relations for her great on the marketing and publicity for Evolutionary Leaders!

A Call To Conscious Evolution - Our Moment of Choice

2010-07-29T21:50:00.000-07:00

Evolutionary Leaders - In Service
UCLA - August 31, 2010

Thirty years ago, long before The Secret came onto the scene, I found myself in a challenging health situation where I had been to 12 specialists while enduring constant pain. Unfortunately, none of them could figure out what was wrong with me. Then one day while sitting on the front lawn in a hopeless state, a Spirit driven miracle took place: my neighbor pulled up with a big smile on her face and a bag full of new age books from the Bodhi Tree bookstore. In that bag were two books that would change my life forever – Louise Hay’s You Can Heal Your Life and Sondra Ray’s Loving Relationships.

I borrowed the books on the spot and began reading feverishly. The words I read helped me to realized that my thoughts about the constant pain had steered me into a victim like state holding me hostage for a year. I knew in my heart there was only one way out, and that was to change my thoughts.

By changing my thoughts and learning how to connect to my higher power – faith appeared. Over the next few months I carried around a spiral notebook where I began to reprogram my negative thought patterns by writing positive affirmations day and night. I’m happy to report that changing my thoughts had a profound impact on my health situation (along with an introduction to acupuncture) and I began healing mind, body and spirit. This life changing experience and revelation was the true beginning of my journey of being a co-creator (with Spirit) of my own destiny, and in being of service to others – Today my life is filled with these everyday miracles (for which I am very grateful).

Over the years there have been numerous books, movies and cd’s written, produced and recorded by many inspirational people such as Marianne Williamson, Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer, Michael Bernard Beckwith, etc. that have garnered national attention in reminding all of us that - thought creatively filled with positive intention, is very powerful. Today there is even much scientific documentation about the power of our thoughts, prayer and the abilities of positive affirmations (when used for the highest good for all those concerned).

One of the amazing things about our thoughts is that we can also use these powerful thoughts to be of service beyond our own needs, for positive change all around us … to assist in raising consciousness as a whole, and helping to heal on a much larger scale such as situation like our current economic state, the Gulf oil crisis, war, etc.

This month some of today’s most influential evolutionary leaders – who have devoted their lives to this divine consciousness of service – are coming together on Tuesday August 31^st at UCLA in Los Angeles as a call to conscious evolution to inspire the leader in all of us. Those of you living in the Los Angeles area, I invite you to mark your calendars and attend this rare live event!!! Those of you in other parts of the world, Internet Global Live streaming will be available.

A Call to Conscious Evolution – Our Moment of Choice

Experience the wisdom of Deepak Chopra, Marianne Williamson, Gregg Braden, Michael Bernard Beckwith, Jean Houston, Barbara Marx Hubbard, Joan Borysenko, Bruce Lipton, Debbie Ford, Jack Canfield, Lynne Twist, Lynne McTaggart, Duane Elgin, James O'Dea, Andrew Cohen and over forty other Evolutionary Leaders from around the globe in support of a future that is not what happens to us but is what we create. Performances by Rickie Byars Beckwith, the Agape Band and Agape Choir plus Siedah Garrett performing her song, "Man in the Mirror".

A Call to Conscious Evolution – Our Moment of Choice, will be held at UCLA in Royce Hall, Los Angeles. Program begins at 7:30 P.M. For more info visit http://evolutionaryleaders.net/laevent/

Roar and Snore - A Safari Adventure

2010-07-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

It was 11:00am Saturday August 8, 2009 when my daughter (24), myself and our respective partners arrived at the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park for an unforgettable 24-hour family adventure. As a conscious and compassionate animal person, I have to admit I had major reservations about visiting the animal park when my (vegetarian) boyfriend originally showed me the article he read about the parks Roar and Snore overnight camping program. Once he shared his feelings about their program being an integral part of saving many of the creatures on the worlds "Endangered Species" list, that's when I started doing research into this unique 1,800-acre Wild Animal Park, which also includes a 900-acre native plant reserve.

The Wild Animal Park - to my delight - is a smoke free environment centered just inland from Oceanside California. It was originally developed for the purpose of creating sustainable populations of endangered species and is recognized around the world for its successful program. Part of their ongoing work with endangered species includes the efforts of scientists based at the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, located on grounds at the Park, as well as field programs around the world.

The park offers a youth Conversation Corp program for students ages 14-18 (an action and advocacy program), summer camp, Night Owl sleepovers for grades 3-6 and 6-8, as well as family education programs, and of course the Roar and Snore overnight adventure - our destination this particular weekend.

To read more about our Flightline and overnight Roar and Snore adventure and see additional photos visit Eco Family News website - click here.

Herbie Hancock at The Grammy Museum - The Imagine Project

2010-06-10T20:55:00.000-07:00

If you haven’t yet ventured out to The Grammy Museum at LA Live, you must treat yourself. The 18-month-old museum offers the community a substantial gift through classes, events (for all ages), artifacts, culture and history. The current exhibit – Strange Kozmic Experience, gives the visitor a rare glimpse into the lives of Janis Joplin, The Doors/Jim Morrison, and Jimi Hendrex, among others. On display are photos, cars, personal hand-written letters, journals, lyrics, and there is much more to this 30,000 sq foot museum.

The Museum’s mission is to use music as a gateway to learning; inspiring and cultivating creativity, critical-thinking and self-expression. The experiential tools that support their vision include after school programs, teacher curriculum, teacher workshops, museum tours, seminars, symposia, master music classes taught by Academy members, mentoring programs, music

forums, school outreach and musical demonstrations, "meet and greets" with artists, and Saturday morning music lessons. The Museum will debut its first traveling interactive exhibit “Instruments of Art” at the Westfield mall in Woodland Hills (CA) June11-July 25, 2010.

Last Monday night was an amazing evening ... I had the privilege of being part of an intimate gathering at the Museum (courtesy of American Express) where jazz legend and multi Grammy-award winner Herbie Hancock sat down with the Museum’s Executive Director, Bob Santelli to talk about his life, and his new heartfelt project – The Imagine Project.

Hancock says, “My dreams got bigger …” The Imagine Project is about peace through globalization - a collaboration of exceptional artists coming together to create a cd and documentary (other aspects forthcoming) in a time of chaos on the planet to address the issues of today through a fusion of music and community. Contributing artists include Pink, Seal, Jeff Beck, Chaka Kahn, John Legend, Dave Matthews, Anoushka Shankar, Indian musicians, among many others. Hancock believes music is truly the universal language and feels it’s time to stand up for what we believe in your heart, and take action – we are all human beings, the cultures are just different. He asks, "What can help us design the human orchestra of life?" The CD is a collaboration of seven languages of jazz and funk that was recorded in six different countries over a span of a year and a half. Hancock states, “My hope is that the music will serve as a metaphor for the actions taken by the inhabitants of this wonderful planet, as a call for world harmony on all levels.”

In speaking with Hancock, he excitedly boasted his eco-friendly packaging of the CD/DVD jackets for The Imagine Project, along with carbon offsets for the traveling done during the projects filming and recording! (Available June 22, 2010 - Hancock Records)

In listening to this amazing collection of music, and from the sampling of the documentary presented Monday, I believe this project is already a success. The gift I received from watching Hancock’s face and body language as they played a cut from the CD, said it all – he is a man at peace with his accomplishment – he genuinely embodies his art.

Hancock celebrates his 70th birthday this year ... Happy Birthday Herbie! Thank you for sharing your gentle spirit, cherished stories and contagious laughter, as well as your creative genius and vision through your latest piece – The Imagine Project.

WCWP Helps Sponsor WE Build Habitat For Humanity

2010-05-26T14:49:00.000-07:00

Last year I had the great fortune of helping the San Fernando Valley Green Building Task Force (A subcommittee of the SFV Green Team) on a volunteer build for Habitat for Humanity in Pacoima, CA. It was truly a memorable experience of working together as a group for an important cause … creating homes for those in need and building community. One of the added benefits of the day was I learned how to build a fence with a few other women and really enjoyed the sense of accomplishment of the finished product.

Then in January I met Donna Deutchman the Executive Director/CEO for local Habitat For Humanity projects on a conference call. When Donna told me about one of the projects she was working on – a Women’s Empowerment Build, I knew right away it was something that WCWP would like to help sponsor. It was a project dedicated to empowering women - a three-day build that would take place on May 23, 24 and 25, 2010.

This past weekend was the WE Build and certainly proved to be another one of those memorable experiences that not only sent a clear message to women about what can be accomplished when you put your mind and heart into something, but also what it feels like to make a difference in someone else's life – how to give back to the community – true unconditional love.

The cast and crew of several daytime soaps, including Days Of Our Lives and the Bold and The Beautiful, as well as many other tv/movie/music talent (The Bachelor cast and crew), businesses, mother and daughters, and a few brave men, all joined in and volunteered their time and power to create something very special – a sense of community. The energy that was generated by all of these women (and men) working together to raise these walls was so powerful. We have posted additional pictures on the WCWP Expo facebook page … if you are not yet a friend/fan, please consider becoming one … enjoy.

I want to thank all of the companies that helped make our participation in the project such an amazing gift for the 18 new homeowners (already completed), for the future recipients of the additional homes being built, and for all of those who generously volunteered their time. Earth Friendly Products donated boxes of (safe for humans and the environment) a full spectrum of natural cleaning products for each of the families living in the completed homes, plus for all of the celebrity gift bags! Each box was hand delivered and received with gratitude. Sandrine Cassidy, owner of June Fifteen Collection donated all the canvas gift bags, Funky Monkey, Fabe’s Natural Bakery, Clif Bar/Luna Bar, Zevia Natural Beverage, Go Mambo, Organic Valley Family of Farms and Nature’s Path all contributed healthy snacks for the three days volunteers – THANK YOU all!

Bioneers 20th Anniversary – Trailblazers of Environmental Education

2009-10-02T23:40:00.000-07:00

If you are truly interested in being a companion of the environment, attending Bioneers (at least once in your life) is a must. This year marks the 20th Anniversary for this organization that has been a voice for the environment long before An Inconvenient Truth. The education the weekend has to offer is some of the most cutting-edge information available with experts from around the world presenting with one agenda - creating solutions.

Last year was my first trip to the Bioneers Conference, held in San Rafael, California. I arrived at a quiet outdoor environment, checked in and was directed into the Marin Center where a lecture was already in session.
I walked into the building and several people were sitting on the floor watching a streaming monitor of the lecture. I followed others through the semi-circular hallway and found my way to a staircase leading into their auditorium. When I got to the top of the stairs I was filled with amazement by the rush of energy from the 2,000 people joined together to learn and embrace ideas for solutions about the environment – WOW! Goosebumps ran through my whole body and my eyes began to well up, I’m sure I may have even burst into laughter at one point. It truly was one of those overwhelmingly wonderful moments.

The Bioneers Youth Program offers a wonderful opportunity for students that engages them in many different facets of educational activities over the weekend.

My five favorite things about Bioneers:

Naomi Klein – The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of the Disaster Capitalism – Some people feel Klein is one of the most important political and economic thinkers of our time. I had just seen her in the documentary FUEL with Director Josh Tickell, but hadn’t had the opportunity to read her book. Her lecture was profound and eye-opening to say the least – a true straightforward investigative journalist.
Erica Fernandez – This remarkable 18-year-old environmental justice activist and Brower Youth Award winner helped mobilize her diverse community in Oxnard, CA to defeat the placement of a liquefied natural gas facility just offshore.
Sandra Steingraber – This mother, ecologist, and biologist shared her journey as a cancer survivor and becoming a voice to protect our most vulnerable--our children. She is the author of Living Down Stream: An Ecologist Looks At Cancer and The Environment and Having Faith: An Ecologist’s Journey to Motherhood.
The Google Earth team gave a lecture on how their program could help with assessing environmental impacts on communities in different geographical areas around the world - giving force to stopping major injustices against our planet and its inhabitants.
The food was outstanding and well organized in terms of feeding a group that large all at once. A paid lunch meal ticket provided either a vegetarian or carnivore plate filled to the brim served buffet style. As a member of the press I was unaware of the procedures so it wasn’t until I was halfway up the food line when someone behind me asked a friend if they had their food ticket. When I inquired about where to purchase a ticket, the woman generously gave me an extra she had for her group of attendees who was not present. I offered to pay, but she insisted that I accept the gift.

In 2008, Bioneers partnered with 18 communities across the country to produce satellite conferences. If you can’t make it to the conference in Northern California, there might be a satellite conference set up in your area. Unfortunately, the satellite beaming doesn't cover all of the breakout sessions, so if possible try and attend in person. If you do, I'm sure you will enjoy the experience. For more information on attending visit www.bioneers.org/conference - For those of you in Los Angeles please visit www.labeaming.org

Adventures On the Sea: Girlfriends enjoy a spontaneous day

2009-09-15T23:06:00.000-07:00

I am usually someone who likes to plan for a day of adventure, so when my girlfriend Jeri called Friday night to see if I wanted to sit in for her son on a Santa Cruz Island kayak trip, my immediate response was, "I need to sleep on it." For some reason I have always had issues around ocean voyages because they require me working through lots of fears of seasickness. Kayaks are not a problem – it is the boat ride getting to destinations that I fear will torture my stomach. I had two bad experiences as a child. However, on falling asleep I remembered that my great trips in Hawaii always went well despite my fears – all I had to do was stay in my seat (outside) and do nothing but meditate. So I am happy to report that I decided to go.

We arrived at the harbor, early by Jeri’s calculation, but in fact we were late. Lucky for us the boat was late too. The kayak rental person alerted us about rough water conditions around the island and gave us a two-minute safety speech, including cautions against going into the caves, and handed us our life vests, helmets and oars, pointed to the kayaks on the grass outside and said, “Have fun.” By this time there were red flags waving in my head raising panic and fear. Not just about the boat going over, but that I would survive the day. Just then the transport boat pulled in and I noticed there were no outside seats that faced forward, at which point I went into my full-on mantra … “I can do this, Spirit has my back, and a really good plan for me,” which I continued to repeat over and over until all passengers were on board and we crossed the great divide.

Jeri was extremely supportive and, like a restless cat looking for its spot, she danced around the boat maintaining her own settled stomach. About halfway through the hour-long trip, I suddenly realized I was alone on the back of the boat with a baby stroller and sleeping baby, the white noise of the motor and the misting spirits of the rudder waves trailing the boat, and I burst into laughter. That is when I began to relax. Still in meditation, I smiled and had spontaneous outbursts of laughter the rest of the trip over.

Once we were safely on land again, I suddenly realized that all the other day trips I had taken with kayaks were guided tours with much training prior to taking off to sea. That wasn’t the case here. The kayaks were floated to shore and placed on some rocks where Jeri and I were to retrieve them by ourselves.

With no time to waste, we both made a quiet assessment of what clothes were important to keep dry. With decisions made we changed our clothes right there on the beach as if no one else were watching. I buckled on my vest, and much-too-big helmet, grabbed my oar and kayak, took a deep breath and headed to the water. (Note to self – always check helmet fit before leaving store.) Jeri looked at me and together we laughed as we began to try and figure out how to get these big yellow spheres into the intimidatingly cold water.

OK -- so picture two moms who have pretty much zero experience in kayaking on their own in a somewhat strong current, attempting a skilled launch off a rocky shoreline while dressed for summer on a cold and windy day. Since Jeri had done this trip before, I watched her with a keen eye thinking she was the experienced body here. She actually turned to me and made a suggestion on how I should approach the situation and as she was talking neglected to realize that her own kayak had left shore without her. I began laughing and yelling, “Jeri, your kayak,” so in her flip-flops she began trying to go after it to no avail. That is when I jumped into action – Wonder Mom to the rescue – and without thinking twice, I was in my kayak and paddling swiftly to the rescue. Mission accomplished and I returned to shore with vessel in tow. Neither of us could stop laughing – it was a true Ally McBeal (or Lucy and Ethel) moment at sea.

Once both of us were successfully in motion, off we went into the wind and up the breathtakingly beautiful coastline battling the strong currents – all by ourselves. Most of the other sea goers had taken the earlier trip and were hiking the island, so for the most part we were the exclusive human riders of the sea. That is when I realized that I really feel much safer in numbers and began my mantras again – “Spirit, my angels and all peaceful sea creatures watch over us and protect us,” and “I am a strong warrior woman and I can do this.”

At one point three people came around a cliff in kayaks and ventured into a cave with their guide. Jeri watched and felt compelled to join them, but didn’t. With the sound of crashing waves pounding the rocks, I found myself scared to get to close to the entrance, but slowly made my way into where Jeri was floating. The water was like a calm lake right there, fantasy blue and crystal clear – we didn’t even have to use our oars. After a few minutes we continued a little further up the coast and realized we were already out of time and needed to head back to the dock.

When we approached the cave area again, Jeri decided she would brave the journey through the crashing waves of the cave, which meant I either had to go back out and face the vast sea around the big cliff all alone, or go with her through the cave. Neither seemed like a reasonable option, but I was out of time to think as she took off on her challenge without me. So I headed back around the cliff with my calming peaceful sea creatures mantra passing through my quivering cold lips. Like magic about halfway around the cliff, a sea lion appeared with a mate and they stayed with me the rest of the way until I was safely reunited with Jeri. We both lifted our oars with pride that we survived our different paths, and in gratitude of our welcomed guests - the peaceful sea creatures.

On the way back to the main island Jeri and I laughed continuously at our adventure and then were graced with one more moment of joy when we were surrounded my thousands of dolphins dancing around us with the rhythms of the sea, which was an incredible gift to a day already filled with adventure and lots of laughter among two girlfriends.

Thanks Jeri for the opportunity, and the journey. Unfortunately we have no photos – just lots of laughter and memories of our journey.

View pictures of Santa Cruz Island Caves -

http://www.pbase.com/gillian/image/3842776

http://www.terragalleria.com/parks/np-image.chis10704.html

Cool things Brewing for Enrichment Village at WCWP Expo 2010

2009-09-05T22:32:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about a great dinner meeting I had last night with two dynamic women about creating a united link within the Enrichment Village planned for the 2010 Whole Child, Whole Planet Expo. Some of the ideas discussed were around creative projects for the kids – that would be equally as enjoyable for adults.

I met with Rhion Magee, a woman involved with the Project Okurase working with villages in Ghana, and my dear friend Linda McManus, co-founder of Enrichment Educational Experiences who in the last year has developed a mentoring program for young women, teaching them different skills including the art of sewing and business development.

Both ladies are doing similar work and have joined forces by simultaneously teaching villagers in Ghana and young women in the San Fernando Valley creative skills to utilize their talents and natural resources for building positive self-esteem and economic growth.

Currently, both groups are making reusable grocery bags from the discards of rice and flour bags that are extremely durable and amazingly beautiful. Attendees will love these very chic bags and I hope they sell lots of them at the show to help support their great work.

It is so beautiful to see both of these organizations servicing young people on different corners of the world with similar visions.

Cindy Cupit Swenson, Project Okaruse founder and her team of angels are teaching the people of Ghana how to build a school, literally one brick at a time. The villagers are actually making each brick, learning the craft of making musical instruments, sewing skills, harvesting shea butter and utilizing it to make body care products, soap, curing bamboo to make bicycles and much more.

We discussed the possibility of one of the Ghana locals, Samuel Nkrumah Yeboah, also known as Powerful, being in Los Angeles next April for the WCWP Expo. He is a respected drum maker, teacher and performer and holds a degree in Doctor of Humane Letters. The Enrichment Village may have lots of enriching surprises.

Protecting Children From Insect Bites and The West Nile Virus – Naturally

2009-06-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

With all the weather changes that global warming brings, so changes the patterns of seasonal pests. Today many geographical areas are plagued with flying insects and bugs all year round, as opposed to just in the spring and summer. With the spread of the West Nile Virus in recent years, mosquitoes are a big concern when it comes to keeping kids bug-free and pesticide-free.

Most insect repellents are made from DEET. DEET actually enters the bloodstream when applied to the skin. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against using repellents containing more than 10% DEET on kids under the age of six. DEET is classified as a pesticide by the Environmental Protection Agency and has been associated with a variety of health problems ranging from dizziness, rashes, hives, uncontrollable twitching, muscle spasms, seizures and even death.

Children are especially susceptible. In 1995 alone, the National Poison Control Center in Washington, D.C. received over 6,700 reports of repellent exposure, including one death, and of the 6,700 reports, two thirds occurred in children age six and under.

In 1995, New York State banned products with 30% or more DEET after reviewing 44 public health studies; The U.S. Military supplies soldiers with 33% or less DEET products; and DEET is suspected of being responsible, in part, for Gulf War Syndrome.

The greatest public awareness around DEET products was brought about when ABC’s PrimeTime Live did a twenty minute segment on DEET alerting the consumer of it’s potential danger. The program told the stories of Tim Christiansen, who in 1994, at the age of 26 years, died after applying DEET twice in one day; on Elijah Harrison, an 8 year old boy who’s mother sprayed him with a 25% DEET product once a day for two days - he still suffers from seizures; and on Everglades National Park workers who experienced rashes, dizziness and numbness of the lips after using a DEET repellent.

Fortunately, there are natural bug repellents on the market today that are safe and nontoxic. In a comparison of natural products versus a DEET based product, independent tests showed that the average DEET repellent lasts four to eight hours, while those containing natural ingredients need to be reapplied about every two hours. DEET products may last longer than natural repellents, but when it comes to the safety of our family, especially children, most parents would agree, it is worth the added responsibility of additional applications.

According to Good Housekeeping Institute, The National Parenting Center and the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada (a government based research facility) the best natural product on the market today is Buzz Away by Quantum Health, an essential oil product, (formulated with Citronella, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass and Peppermint, all pure, natural plant extracts.) It ranked the highest among natural repellents tested, and proved to be most effective against mosquitoes, blackflies, gnats, and no-see-ums. Researcher James Heal, at the University of Guelph found that protection provided by Buzz Away is similar to that provided by DEET-based OFF! Skintastic.

Also, in clinical testing another natural bug repellent, All Terrain proved to hold 100% effectiveness for two hours and 95.8% for an additional hour.

Larry Clifford, the Assistant Superintendent at Crowley’s Ridge State Park in Arkansas, was concerned about the possible problems that pesticides might pose. “My research presented caution after caution about DEET products,” Clifford explained. Arkansas is known as the mosquito capital of the world so Clifford decided to compare natural repellents to DEET at his park's annual mosquito calling contest. In one event, contestants put an arm in a box with 500 or so mosquitoes. They compared Buzz Away with DEET products. When DEET covered one contestant’s arm in the test chamber, little wing beats of the mosquitoes were felt. With Buzz Away sprayed on the arm, mosquitoes were buzzing 2 to 3 inches away. The test proved an obvious difference to the participants.

Marcus Laux, a Los Angeles based physician and author, knows first hand that natural repellents can work even in extreme conditions. Laux leads camping expeditions to the rain forests of South and Central America to study medicinal properties of indigenous botanicals and states, “The mosquitoes there are fierce – in the Amazon they're as big as birds – Buzz Away worked even under the harshest conditions.” Dr. Laux does reaffirm that products like Buzz Away must be applied frequently, as much as once every hour or two, in heavily infested areas.

Buzz Away is especially easy to use on very young children with their convenient towelettes, which are very travel friendly. Vitamin B1 is another secret weapon against biting insects and bugs, and can be taken internally, or in an easy to work with application of the Don’t Bite Me Patch. The patch can simply be placed on the child’s skin. (If left on too long it can be hard to pull off.) The dosage would be dependent on the situation and age of the child, anywhere from 50mg-400mg. Always check with a qualified health practitioner for appropriate recommendations. It is reassuring to know that there are natural effective methods to support us in doing our best to keep our kids safe from toxic chemicals.

Natural bug repellents include:

Buzz Away
All Terrain
Don’t Bite Me! Patch
Badger Balm
Burt’s Bees
Calfornia baby

Creative Ideas For Saving Water

2009-04-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

About six months ago, I met a man named Buzz Boettcher who had designed this amazingly elaborate grey water system – currently installed at Ed Begley Jr’s house. I thought seriously about putting his system in my house, but after a field trip to see how it all worked, decided that for my simple needs the system (which is brilliantly efficient) might actually increase my foot print with my minimal water use and the system's electric pumps. However, several weeks later when I was getting a quote to have some long over due plumbing work done, I had an epiphany. I asked the plumber to help me create a simple system that would go from my washing machine directly to the garden. I wanted a system where I could utilize the washing machines outgoing water to water the garden in the dry months, and then be able to re-direct the waste water back into the city system during the rainy season. Did I say rainy season – I wonder what that is … lol.

Anyway the major plumbing work that needed to be done was in my laundry room and after much discussion we came up with a plan. So I bought a rain catcher barrel from Home Depot, which included a mesh screen (to catch lint) and a hose attachment for $160 - tax and shipping included. We placed the barrel outside the laundry room wall, which faces an exterior wall and then added an extra out going drainpipe next to the original one that goes into the city system. We positioned the outflow drainpipe to go out the back wall and hang over the rain barrel. The outflow hose from the washing machine can be placed into either the garden, or city draining pipe, depending on our watering needs. So in the rainy season I can direct the water back into the city system so as not to over water the garden. By designing it this way, when we do use the reclaimed water option it will immediately go directly from the washer into the garden. One of the big problems with a grey water system is when water sits around, and is not maintained properly, it can become a breeding zone for bacteria and mosquitoes. But with this humble simple system, we are always using the water immediately so there is never any standing water to create a problem. Another important factor is that I only use natural cleaning products, which actually nurtures the plants and won’t pollute the ground water.

The first time I used the system I was so excited to watch the mechanics of the system actually work the way we had hoped. I never imagined that one medium size load of laundry would generate approximately 54 gallons of water. So I saved at least 95 gallons of water with the systems first use. Another plus about utilizing this system is the whole process gets me out in the garden for a much needed break. It encourages me to take time to smell the roses while watering them. What an enriching and empowering experience and achievement. Something I love about my life is that something so simply, can bring me so much joy.

A few other things I do to conserve water are:

• Installed a Smart Faucet - www.water-saver-faucet.com - on my kitchen faucet, which was really easy – screw off, screw on. This gadget saves 5,000 gallons of water a year per person, per faucet. So if you install a smart faucet on two faucets, one on the kitchen and bathroom faucets and there are three people in the house, it is approximated that you would be saving up to 30,000 gallons of water a year … wow.

• Placed a four-minute timer in my shower … it is a good thing the water doesn’t automatically shut off after four minutes because I usually reset it for one more time allotment … lol … and simply not shower every day - sitting behind a computer 12 hours a day doesn’t really produce much sweat.

• Only water the front yard a few times a years during the hottest months. Fortunately there are lots of big trees that offer much shade in the summer. The back yard has a lot of edible growth and we use a drip system and a watering can (and now washing machine reclaimed water … yea).

I have several other ideas about how to conserve and reuse water and will keep you posted on their development, and my progress.

Natural Products Expo West

2009-03-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to the 29th annual Natural Products Expo West. Expo West is the largest trade show of its kind housing approximately 2,000 exhibitors (this year drawing 54,000 attendees), where retailers come to see what companies, or products are new to the natural products and eco-friendly market (caution – not everything there is so natural and healthy). A place where deals and negotiations are taking place in every corner, old friends get to see each other and parties are happening … kind of like the stock market floor on a good day. For me it is four days of non-stop networking, walking, learning and playing … gotta love my job.

The weekend always starts off with the Organic Farmers Research Foundation’s (OFRF) meet and greet luncheon. The OFRF is a non-profit organization that sponsors organic farming research and education projects, disseminates the results, and educates the public and policymakers about organic farming issues. Chef Donna Prizgintas, took a bow for 12 years of service to the luncheon, as she presented (with the help of other notable chefs) a true southern treat complete with sage roasted ham, fried chicken (not a vegetarian’s delight), grits, biscuits with gravy, and my favorite dessert, strawberry shortcake with rose geranium chantilly.

Farmer Dave Christensen was this year’s grant recipient, who give a brief keynote on breeding organic corn seed, and his life's work developing Painted Mountain Corn. He laughed as he spoke about the indigenous peoples advice for him to sing to his corn, and admitted to at least having good conversations with it. I ran into several old friends at the luncheon including Chef Susan Teton a true advocate for children’s healthy nutrition, green living and holistic lifestyle expert Anna Getty (beautifully pregnant), and Christopher Gavigan, Executive Director and CEO of Healthy Child, Healthy World – as we discussed a continuing partnership between HCHW, Whole Children, Whole Planet and Eco Family News.

In the days that followed, I ran into Peggy O’Mara with Mothering magazine, where we briefly caught up while washing hands in the rest room at the Marriot, Maxine Wolf with KIWI magazine – we had a great conversation about setting a new healthy standard for kid’s nutrition, Kim Walls, MS, CEO of Episencial and Laryn Callaway, Founder and CEO of Organic Bistro makers of a healthy frozen gourmet meal for families on the go.

Peas of Mind launched their new veggie wedgies, which are pretty tasty and aren’t even on their website yet. I was introduced to the Wysi cloth, a biodegradable 100% natural pulp fiber cloth that is really absorbent and compact for travel – one of these touch to water and it grows type products … cool. Organic Essence introduced a new concept ... eco-friendly lip care stick and shea cream (a mixture of natural ingredients) both in biodegradable containers … I mean the most earth friendly packaging yet … a must to check out. I was supposed to do an interview with Scott Cecil, President and Founder of Save Your World (whose mission is to help save the rainforest, one Product = one Acre of Rainforest Saved for One Year), but misplaced my tape recorder … oops – it was a really technically challenging day. After a previous interview the tape recorder wouldn’t turn off, and while walking by the Green Mountain Gringo booth – the best chips and salsa ever – Carl Lill tried to help me with the recorder, but I ended up erasing all the previous interviews … oh well. Good thing I have a fantastic memory and I was able to jot down all pertinent info taped … lol … Back to Save Your World … they were launching their new yerba mate/aloe Save Your Hair® color-safe shampoo and conditioner, which looks like a great addition to their full line of other organic body and personal care products, that smell naturally divine. Watch for a feature on them in a future issue of EFN. While I haven’t tried their new shampoo and conditioner, I did try Nature’s Baby, the company’s president Adena Surabian, put a sample of their baby shampoo and conditioner in my hand while I was cruising by, which I did try, and to my surprise, I have fallen for a new product – who knew that a baby line would meet my snobbish standards and capture my hair’s affection.

While there were hundreds of amazing products and companies that caught my attention (in addition to the ones above) here are a few of my favorites: www.kettlecuisine.com (sugar and gluten free soups and Feingold approved – I had lunch at their booth more than once), www.firstjuice.com (great idea to put organic fruits and veggies together … sneaky), www.nelliesallnatural.com (natural laundry, dishwasher and dryer products), www.bratdiet.org (B.R.A.T. – an acronym, a gluten free soothing beverage from bananas, rice, applesauce and toast), www.sensiblefoodscom (yummy organic crunchy dried veggie and nut snacks), www.pukkaherbs.com (fabulous herbal tea blends), www.ecobambooware.com (made from sustainable bamboo), www.juniperridge.com (finally a truly natural incense), www.funkymonkey.com (kid delicious crunchy fruit snacks), www.fruit-66.com/news.html (breaking down barriers into the schools), www.greenfuji.com (while they are not rechargeable, they are cadmium, mercury and pvc free – yea), www.preserveproducts.com (keeping toothbrushes and razors out of landfills), www.greehearts-us.com (creating healthy bbq’s with carbon neutral charcoal briquettes), www.onewithnature.com (have some of the most incredible smelling soaps), and www.plantlife.net (fun pamper stuff) – stay tuned for more news on all of these folks, and others in the future.

Toxic Tub Alert – Kid-Safe-Chemicals-Act

2009-03-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics team is working hard to keep our kids (and us) safe from toxic exposures to chemicals in bath and personal care products. There is a new report out this week about toxic chemicals found in traditional bath products. Most people don’t know that personal care and cosmetic companies are not required to list all ingredients on the label, so even the most ingredient-conscious parents wouldn't know whether the product is safe and free from cancer causing chemicals. Many bath products are labeled as “gentle," "pure" or "naturally refreshing", which can be deceiving because label laws for personal care products is unregulated and these alluring words can be a hook for even the most conscientious parent.

In this new study, an independent lab tested 48 kids' products for 1,4-dioxane and found it in 67 percent of the products. Of the 28 products tested for formaldehyde, 82 percent were positive. Seventeen products were contaminated with both 1,4-dioxane and formaldehyde, both linked to significant health effects. You can read more about this report at http://www.safecosmetics.org/article.php?id=414. There is also a safety guide to children's personal care products on that page as well.

Beyond the findings of the study, I feel it is important that parents know that current regulations don’t require chemicals to be proven safe to get on the market, or stay on the market. The Toxic Substances Control Act is what is suppose to be protecting us, however, when it was passed back in 1976, most of the chemicals slated as safe were never tested, but rather grandfathered in at the time. This Act is the weakest of all major environmental laws we have today. Under federal law EPA does not have the authority to demand the information it needs to evaluate a chemical's risk, and neither manufacturers nor the EPA are required to prove a chemical's safety for use in these products. I consider this to be a huge problem that truly falls short of protecting us, especially protecting our children. This year the Environmental Working Group needs our help – they are working hard to reform this safety hazard, please read about the Kid-Safe Chemicals Act - http://www.ewg.org/kidsafe - and sign their declaration.

Hazing Among Our Youth

2009-03-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

I just saw a segment on Good Morning America about hazing amongst our youth. What a horrifying act of rage and hate. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our youth were inspired, honored and celebrated during their learning phase of life? What if instead of pouring alcohol down each others throats, and yelling ‘you’re worthless and disgusting’ while performing degrading disrespectful acts of violence, they filled one another with positive loving affirmations of their greatness, while massaging each others feet with essential oils and writing messages of abundance on pretty ribbons, tying them to a walking stick that supports them on their path? What if they told the chosen ones how much they were loved, and that their tribe of warriors would be there to support them over the years, and throughout their lives? While I know a lot of moms are concerned about the younger crowd, how can we encourage and implement new games of hazing amongst our older youth, perhaps creating more of a spiritual haze? I would love to hear your thoughts.

An Amazing Woman’s Day Experience

2009-03-02T09:34:00.000-08:00

As a journalist I attend many events every year that are educational, inspirational and usually quite remarkable in some way. This blog is the first in a series of event reviews where I will share 5 things I learned, or loved about the event. Amazing Womans day – igniting the power of feminine leadership – produced and hosted by Marsh Engle, and her tribe of amazing women. www.amazingwomansday.com

After a vibrant, awarkening, opening drum ceremony, the first amazing woman to present was someone that Marsh (the producer) had only met the day before, Doris K. Reed, a stunning African American woman – poet extraordinaire. (Who knew, that a treasuring moment was about to take place?) While there was no mention of Black History Month, I thought how poignant that Reed would set the tone of the day with her poem “Joy”, which for those of you who know Marsh’s work (with the six essentials), joy is a prominent aspect. The catchy bluesy music started, the lights softened and words began to flow – “Beautiful little girl sitting quietly by life’s tree, looking at the world in wide-eyed wonder at the many things to see ... So innocent, trusting, full of grace and charm, I long to hold you forever and protect you from all harm …” Reed delivered her complete “Joy” (read in "Tending My Garden") to the group of Amazing Woman, all of whom were moved to a standing ovation. www.poetextraordinaire.com

Dr. Sharron Stroud – Named among 100 of the world’s most recognized communicators, then took the stage and declared, “We must do the work within ourselves!” Find your place of peace - a place within yourself that has never been touched, or judged, a sacred place of peace. She encouraged us to always look beyond the moment, or situation of our expectations. To draw a bigger circle around our expectations when there is a sense of disappointment, and ask, what can we give to the situation? This action of service will bring the joy in every moment. Find your courage to be in the world and live your life. Feel the fear and do it anyway. Stroud starts her day with a prayer that begins, “As I accept the magical, mystical and the miraculous …". It is important to believe in yourself, our cells are listening, and will respond to our thoughts and words. Remember each one of us is an individualized magnificent expression of this universe. Her definition of success is to do what you say you will do. www.innerfaithworldwide.com p.s. Why do birds sore? They take themselves lightly.

Maria Nemeth, PhD, New York Times bestseller of “The Energy of Money” adds to Stroud’s definition of success – do what you say you will do with clarity, focus, ease and grace. Make friends with your monkey mind – the constant chatter. Our lives are shaped by the words we find interesting. Always focus your energy where it can do the most good. Enjoy the journey to the goal, take small baby steps and appreciate them, or you may find trouble at the border. A border being the edge of a forest that has no path, enter the forest and create a new path – you are a trailblazer. Grace is appreciating we are an instrument of Spirit, and our gateway is gratitude. www.academyforcoachingexcellence.com

Reconnecting to the physical body through movement/dance is always a treat for me. Tarnie Fulloon, PT, MA founder of BodyFreedom helped all of us amazing woman tune in and make a connection to our bodies. Fulloon facilitated engaging us to tap into our feminine divineness by moving our bodies with closed eyes so we would really feel every essence of our being – every muscle, every joint, every movement, a moment of free expression – in a totally safe environment. www.awarenesscenteryoga.org

Once Fulloon had us connected physically to our bodies and in a zen feminine space, Cindera Che, a Dancing With the Stars Performance Coach took us to a different level that allowed us the experience of dance invoked by a present emotion – the being board dance, the dance of anger, the sad dance. She gifted each of us with a pink feather boa to utilize as a support prop for our feminine. Che showed us what it is like to enjoy an improvisational choreographed exercise of rhythm, soul and sassy feminine that touched my spirit. We followed her, and our intuition in finding a divine way of moving, walking and tilting our heads naturally. For me it was shire pleasure to watch 200 women kick loose in a twenty minute period and be taught from start to finish an amazing woman’s day dance routine, and the ability to perform it together, 10 times through with finesse – a true sense of accomplishment. www.thecheway.com Thank you Marsh for bringing these Amazing Woman together – again – for a day of joy, experience and sharing, brilliant!

There were other amazing women who presented and contributed to the days program with their divine and inspirational energies, including - Marie Diamond, Barbara Niven and many other remarkable feminine leaders - my exercise is writing about only five.

2009-02-23T17:21:00.000-08:00

I am a health and environmental writer/activist, and have authored two books - The Complete Teething Guide, and Bach Flowers for Children. I produce the Whole Children, Whole Planet Expo the premier natural parenting and family expo: Creating empowered parents and balanced families in a safe, natural, non-toxic, nurturing environment.

I am also the editor, host and producer of Eco Family News - a free e-newsletter, website and radio show that is a respected, reliable resource for consumers and families about important health and environmental issues, as well as a leading authority on authentic green vs. green-washed products and services.

Eco Family News, in its three components, offers people a comprehensive resource and overview, introducing them to top quality eco-products, services, companies, sustainable practices, organizations and enrichment learning programs.

Eco Family News Radio inspires dialog about important health and environmental issues and provides relevant information for protecting families and the planet. The show airs on the third Wednesday of every month at 11:00 a.m., PST, and is archived and available 24/7 at http://www.iamhealthyradio.com. My passion is to empower people through education so they can make informed decisions.