naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-03-25--Planet Rescue: Grassroots Strategies Combat Climate Crisis

While not everyone has the time or inclination to ride 250 miles and camp—some of it in the rain—or as Thunberg did , sail across the Atlantic in a zero-emissions yacht , there are steps individuals can take to combat climate change on a grassroots level , experts say , because the crisis is undeniable , as seen most recently in the catastrophic bushfires across Australia .
Reversing course may seem insurmountable , but individuals have a lot of power , says Dan Shepard , UN global communications officer : “ The choices we make , the things we do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge impact on the world.
” “ I wanted to inspire other kids , ” Ember says of her bicycle trek for polar bears .
“ I love animals and they deserve to not die.
” But predators are suffering because of humans that are feeling the impacts of climate change , Advani says .
Long droughts have forced many Kenyan pastoralists to enter protected parks and compete with wildlife for water and grazing land , resulting in lion deaths as retaliation for killing livestock .
In the Himalayas , as the Earth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encroached for pastureland .
In Zimbabwe , farmers have turned to chopping down trees for wood as an alternative economic opportunity .
“ Everybody is stressed and competing for resources , ” Advani says .
“ It is a very severe result of climate change.
” Advani and researchers are working in tandem with local societies in 30 countries across Africa , Central America and Asia to fund novel projects under the Wildlife Adaptation Innovation Fund .
For instance , they are piloting a rainwater harvesting project to help farmers get through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mudbrick nests to help albatross breed better in Tasmania .
These special projects are based on available levels of donations that are sometimes crowd-sourced .
“ I love to see what young people are doing , because if we collectively use our voice to amplify the facts about climate change , we can work to find solutions , ” Strait says .
“ And we need facts to get out there because , at least in the U.S. , some people think climate change is still a controversy and are afraid to talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that conversation with friends and family so we can find solutions.
” Getting involved in grassroots-level strategies is empowering not only for kids , but for adults that need their resiliency and inspiration , says Janet Stringer , manager of donor relations at Polar Bears International , in Bozeman , Montana .
“ In my work , I hear from so many people who are feeling deep despair about the climate crisis .
I draw hope from the children who write to us , sharing stories and pictures about their dreams for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Stringer .
“ I think we owe it to the next generation to work as hard as we can to come together and make the necessary changes to ensure that polar bears—and all wildlife—are not a species we learn about in the pages of a book , but a wild species that we can see with our own eyes , reminding us of how special our planet is and why it deserves our respect.
” One of her favorite examples comes from students at the Daina-Isard school , in Olesa de Montserrat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with teacher Connie Darilek , who asked the Aquarium of Barcelona to help them grow plankton , an organism threatened by warming seas .
“ They gave us plankton and jellyfish , and it was really amazing for the students to learn the [ Arctic ] food chain and how serious it would be losing the polar bear on top , ” Darilek says .
Students recently published the book Nanuc , a story about a polar bear that they also illustrated , now in its second printing .
There ’ s no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Catherine Macdonald , TNC director of natural climate solutions for North America .
“ We really have to try , all of us .
It ’ s important that everyone feel they can contribute , because everything does make a difference , and no action is too small.
” “ Climate change is definitely a growing concern that we are facing , and as more people understand there is a problem and what the solutions are , the more influence we can have on the big decision-makers , whether that ’ s government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” she says .
“ And being aware informs voters to advance climate action.
” While Josie , Ember , Azalea and the students at Daina-Isard aren ’ t old enough to vote , their message is strong .
“ I ’ m worried about the impact climate change will have on our future , ” Josie says .
“ I think people should protest peacefully for the things they believe in and that more people should exercise their right to vote for leaders who care about the youth in our world and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think people should try to spend a little bit of their time taking action for what they want to see changed in our world.
” With the help of her mother , Jill , Josie Martin dedicated her 9th birthday to the conservation of rhinos with a fundraiser .
This marks the fifth time Josie has chosen to actively support an animal she loves to paint for her birthday month .
She raises money for the animal and creates awareness about climate change and the resulting possibility of their extinctions .
Donors received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in her Extinction Is Forever series .
Like most kids , Azalea Morgan loves polar bears .
“ They ’ re fluffy and cute , ” the 8-year-old says , and after watching a documentary on how climate change is affecting these Arctic apex predators , she badly wanted to help .
Her mom , Molly Morgan , suggested she do something big , because the problem of global warming is monumental .
Fridays For Future – This is a global movement sparked by Greta Thunberg , with a map for climate strikes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ World Wildlife Fund engages activists of all ages with a toolkit and inspirational stories .

For nearly three weeks last September, Azalea pedaled her bike alongside her mom and 9-year-old sister, Ember, setting out from their hometown of Andover, New Hampshire, en route to New York City to attend the United Nations (UN) Climate Action Summit, where Greta Thunberg and other global youth leaders marched for change. The trip was a fundraiser to put solar panels on their school and for future projects under KidsCare4PolarBears , a Facebook page that documents their ongoing efforts.
While not everyone has the time or inclination to ride 250 miles and camp—some of it in the rain—or as Thunberg did, sail across the Atlantic in a zero-emissions yacht, there are steps individuals can take to combat climate change on a grassroots level, experts say, because the crisis is undeniable, as seen most recently in the catastrophic bushfires across Australia.
There are peaceful protests taking place worldwide scheduled throughout 2020 with Fridays For Future and other organizations, but a growing number of individuals that want to do more are using their imaginations and creative endeavors, inspiring others to take unique action.
Students at a school in Spain wrote and performed a play and illustrated a book to raise climate change awareness, while a teen from California used her artistic skills to raise thousands of dollars for wildlife. On March 28, people around the world participated in the World Wildlife Fund’s Earth Hour by collectively turning off lights at 8:30 p.m. while holding eco-events, and others are joining in the global tree-planting campaign of The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
Reversing course may seem insurmountable, but individuals have a lot of power, says Dan Shepard, UN global communications officer: “The choices we make, the things we do, collectively matter and can have a huge impact on the world.”
Stepping Up for Biodiversity
“I wanted to inspire other kids,” Ember says of her bicycle trek for polar bears. “I love animals and they deserve to not die.”
Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, more than 1 million species are threatened with extinction, and one of the main reasons is climate change, say experts, including According to a 2019 UN, more than 1 million species are threatened with extinction, and one of the main reasons is climate change, say experts, including Nikhil Advani , director of Climate Communities and Wildlife at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Protecting large predators is one key to enriching biodiversity, Advani says. “The top of the food chain has a significant impact on prey species and the ecosystem.”
But predators are suffering because of humans that are feeling the impacts of climate change, Advani says. Long droughts have forced many Kenyan pastoralists to enter protected parks and compete with wildlife for water and grazing land, resulting in lion deaths as retaliation for killing livestock. In the Himalayas, as the Earth warms, snow leopard habitat is being encroached for pastureland. In Zimbabwe, farmers have turned to chopping down trees for wood as an alternative economic opportunity. “Everybody is stressed and competing for resources,” Advani says. “It is a very severe result of climate change.”
Advani and researchers are working in tandem with local societies in 30 countries across Africa, Central America and Asia to fund novel projects under the Wildlife Adaptation Innovation Fund. For instance, they are piloting a rainwater harvesting project to help farmers get through the dry seasons and are constructing concrete and mudbrick nests to help albatross breed better in Tasmania. These special projects are based on available levels of donations that are sometimes crowd-sourced.
Raising funds for innovative projects, as well as increasing awareness of what’s happening, is an important grassroots strategy, says Elan Strait , WWF director of U.S. climate campaigns. It can be as simple as sharing updates, tagging social media influencers and instigating a rallying cry. WWF has its own program called Panda Ambassadors in which conservation activists of all ages can get tips and tools to promote specific projects they feel most passionate about.
“I love to see what young people are doing, because if we collectively use our voice to amplify the facts about climate change, we can work to find solutions,” Strait says. “And we need facts to get out there because, at least in the U.S., some people think climate change is still a controversy and are afraid to talk about it, but we should have that conversation with friends and family so we can find solutions.”
Youth Rising to the Challenge
Getting involved in grassroots-level strategies is empowering not only for kids, but for adults that need their resiliency and inspiration, says Janet Stringer, manager of donor relations at Polar Bears International , in Bozeman, Montana. “In my work, I hear from so many people who are feeling deep despair about the climate crisis. I draw hope from the children who write to us, sharing stories and pictures about their dreams for a future that includes polar bears,” says Stringer. “I think we owe it to the next generation to work as hard as we can to come together and make the necessary changes to ensure that polar bears—and all wildlife—are not a species we learn about in the pages of a book, but a wild species that we can see with our own eyes, reminding us of how special our planet is and why it deserves our respect.”
One of her favorite examples comes from students at the Daina-Isard school, in Olesa de Montserrat, Spain, and their climate-driven projects with teacher Connie Darilek, who asked the Aquarium of Barcelona to help them grow plankton, an organism threatened by warming seas.
“They gave us plankton and jellyfish, and it was really amazing for the students to learn the [Arctic] food chain and how serious it would be losing the polar bear on top,” Darilek says. Students recently published the book Nanuc, a story about a polar bear that they also illustrated, now in its second printing.
Josie Martin, 13, of Solana Beach, California, has raised $8,700 for conservation of rhinos, elephants, pangolins, gorillas and polar bears by giving watercolor paintings to those that donate to charities through her PayPal Giving page . “Each year, I think I’m getting a little bit better at creating art which sends a strong message,” she says. “The message I try to express is that some of our best-known wild animals might in my lifetime no longer be on the planet. I think the difference I make through art is that I am helping to raise awareness for important animal conservation work.”
Every Action Counts
There’s no one solution to climate change, says Catherine Macdonald, TNC director of natural climate solutions for North America. “We really have to try, all of us. It’s important that everyone feel they can contribute, because everything does make a difference, and no action is too small.”
Science Advances, nature-driven land management could sequester 21 percent of America’s annual greenhouse gas pollution—the equivalent of emissions from all cars and trucks on the roads today. Planting trees emerged in the study as the most significant among 21 strategies to mitigate global warming. One good way to get started is join the For those that are not art-inclined, one of the best things people can do is to plant trees, Macdonald says, whether it’s replanting forests or increasing their numbers in urban areas. According to a 2018 study by TNC published in, nature-driven land management could sequester 21 percent of America’s annual greenhouse gas pollution—the equivalent of emissions from all cars and trucks on the roads today. Planting trees emerged in the study as the most significant among 21 strategies to mitigate global warming. One good way to get started is join the TNC Plant a Billion Trees program , Macdonald says.
“Climate change is definitely a growing concern that we are facing, and as more people understand there is a problem and what the solutions are, the more influence we can have on the big decision-makers, whether that’s government or corporations that make our products,” she says. “And being aware informs voters to advance climate action.”
While Josie, Ember, Azalea and the students at Daina-Isard aren’t old enough to vote, their message is strong. “I’m worried about the impact climate change will have on our future,” Josie says. “I think people should protest peacefully for the things they believe in and that more people should exercise their right to vote for leaders who care about the youth in our world and the generations to come. I also think people should try to spend a little bit of their time taking action for what they want to see changed in our world.”
Julie Marshall is a Colorado-based writer and author of Making Burros Fly: Cleveland Amory, Animal Rescue Pioneer. Connect with her at [email protected]. Making Burros Fly: Cleveland Amory, Animal Rescue Pioneer
Extinction Is Forever
Josie Martin
With the help of her mother, Jill, Josie Martin dedicated her 9th birthday to the conservation of rhinos with a fundraiser. This marks the fifth time Josie has chosen to actively support an animal she loves to paint for her birthday month. She raises money for the animal and creates awareness about climate change and the resulting possibility of their extinctions. Donors received signed and numbered copies of watercolor paintings in her Extinction Is Forever series.
View the artist’s latest fundraiser.
The young artist’s fundraisers provide well-researched information on animals and the issues they face. With an upbeat message and a photo of her joyful smile, Josie requests that donors provide their email address so that she and her mom can keep them updated. She works to improve her skills as an artist and sets a modestly higher goal for the number of donors and amount of funds to raise each year. She believes her events are a small thing that she can do for a big world and wants to help ensure that animals do not go extinct in her lifetime.
Getting Started: Climate Action Opportunities
The United Nations – Consider supporting several campaigns for climate change with grassroots strategies, including Climate Neutral Now, ACT Now and Good Life Goals.
Moms Clean Air Force – Parents protecting children from climate-driven pollution, offering strategies to get kids involved.
Earth Hour 2020 – Read about the global effort to dramatize environmental concerns that occurred on March 28 when lights were turned off for an hour around the world.
Plant a Billion Trees – Join in the massive reforestation project by supporting the Nature Conservancy and planting trees.
Polar Bears International – Get involved and inspired through creative projects for polar bears.
Like most kids, Azalea Morgan loves polar bears. “They’re fluffy and cute,” the 8-year-old says, and after watching a documentary on how climate change is affecting these Arctic apex predators, she badly wanted to help. Her mom, Molly Morgan, suggested she do something big, because the problem of global warming is monumental. Fridays For Future – This is a global movement sparked by Greta Thunberg, with a map for climate strikes around the world. Panda Ambassadors – World Wildlife Fund engages activists of all ages with a toolkit and inspirational stories.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-03-27--A Home That Heals: Creating a Nurturing Space

Like water and wind , harmony within the home should also flow .
“ Listening to the energies in your home and taking the time to move furniture around until you have a placement that makes your head feel calm is really important , ” says English .
Feng shui—the ancient Chinese system of creating harmony in personal and professional spaces—prioritizes color psychology .
“ More times than I can count , I ’ ve had clients report loss of motivation after painting their homes taupe .
They ’ ve also reported weight gain and digestive disorders , ” says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to use colors that reflect light , especially for homes in locations where winter is long and days are short.
” Disruptive clutter is another key player in eliciting discontent , especially for children that are sensitive to environmental stimulus .
“ A space that is cluttered can cause emotional distress , resulting in less-than-desirable behaviors , ” says Saraka .
“ Something as simple as the lines of the furniture can feel sharp , creating anxiety .
It all matters.
” “ Step outside the room and then come back in as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ What do you notice with your newcomer ’ s eyes ?
What does the room feel like ?
What smells are you aware of ?
Do you need to move a cat litter box to another area of the house ?
Would an area rug soften the hard sounds of foot traffic ?
Pause on each of your senses and make notes.
” Incorporating organic elements can boost the vitality of any living space .
“ House plants are a wonderful way to bring the green world into our homes .
Go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you ’ re worried you may forget to water them , consider plants like scented leaf pelargoniums ; for example , Royal Oak .
They thrive on neglect and can also provide some wonderful room fragrances , ” says English .
She also suggests including natural or quality faux branches and blooms in the home as ways of decorating—berries to provide splashes of rich orange , pine cones dabbed with metallic paint , or even long stems of ivy leaves twisted into garlands .
Having live plants in the home also benefits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ real plants to a space can help reduce environmental toxins found in paints and manmade products , as well as electromagnetic frequencies—by-products of electronics.
” Ridge concurs , “ Cacti can be a charming alternative for those of us who don ’ t have a green thumb , but still want to enjoy a living plant indoors.
” In the end , a place of sanctuary comes from a place of love .
English sums it up best : “ If you pour that sense of love into your home , you will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back at you , and you ’ ll feel it whenever you go through your front door.
” Give everyone in the household daily , weekly and monthly chores to help maintain a clean , healthy , safe , beautiful and calm home .
Make sure that each space has optimum lighting , that all light bulbs work and window treatments are opened daily to fill each room with natural light .
Position the beds in the home to have a view of the door entering the room .
This is called the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sense of control over the immediate environment .
Start with the floor .
Simply pick up and straighten the items there—shoes , books , papers , coats and that stack of items earmarked for donating that you set in the corner weeks ago .
A clear walk space gives you immediate energy and a sense of order .
Use a timer .
Setting it for five minutes ( or giving yourself just enough time to let a teabag steep in a cup ) is perfect motivation to unload a dishwasher , clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wipe down a sink .
Reduce indoor noise pollution .
Installing felt bumpers on cabinet doors and drawers is a tiny activity that yields big results .
Cover the feet of kitchen chairs with pads and use fabric placemats on tables .
Throw rugs can also soften sounds .
Upgrading speakers for TVs and devices can improve sound quality and facilitate lower volumes .
One of my most favorite guidelines is William Morris ’ adage , “ Keep nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are “ stuck ” with where you ’ ve placed furniture and items .
I move things around my home on a regular basis , only really settling when furniture has found the place where it merges most perfectly with the overall energy of a room .
Begin by creating a “ mood board ” where you collect ideas that inspire you .
Home , whether a humble studio apartment or a dream house , is a critical facet of well-being , a spiritual headquarters from which good health springs .
Everyone in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children , can benefit from an environment that feels like a sacred space .
Creating nourishing corners , along with more open areas that feed the senses and a system of functional ease , can be a deep and rewarding act of self-care.Soul-inspiring visuals , satisfying textures and natural , delightful scents are all desirable domestic companions .
A small , ambient lamp in a bathroom or a spring-colored sheer in a window can invite the benediction of light.Create daily rituals with small , manageable goals that ’ ll help sustain balance and @ @

“Our home is by far one of the most significant investments we’ll ever make. Our spaces are not meant to be stagnant, but to evolve through each stage of our lives,” says feng shui expert Bridget Saraka , of Saskatoon, Canada.
Ali English, owner of Eldrum Interiors , in Lincolnshire, England, concurs, “We all need a safe holt to return to, that space where we can be utterly ourselves, utterly at peace.”
Sanctuary and Mental Health
Investing in harmony does not require a high price tag. “It’s important to have a mental vision of what this means, and for me, there are three major components: peace, order and beauty,” says Texas-based designer Rachel Anne Ridge, who blogs at HomeSanctuary.com
Like water and wind, harmony within the home should also flow. “Listening to the energies in your home and taking the time to move furniture around until you have a placement that makes your head feel calm is really important,” says English.
Feng shui—the ancient Chinese system of creating harmony in personal and professional spaces—prioritizes color psychology. “More times than I can count, I’ve had clients report loss of motivation after painting their homes taupe. They’ve also reported weight gain and digestive disorders,” says Saraka. “It’s best to use colors that reflect light, especially for homes in locations where winter is long and days are short.”
Disruptive clutter is another key player in eliciting discontent, especially for children that are sensitive to environmental stimulus. “A space that is cluttered can cause emotional distress, resulting in less-than-desirable behaviors,” says Saraka. “Something as simple as the lines of the furniture can feel sharp, creating anxiety. It all matters.”
Cultivating Comfort
“Step outside the room and then come back in as a guest,” suggests Ridge. “What do you notice with your newcomer’s eyes? What does the room feel like? What smells are you aware of? Do you need to move a cat litter box to another area of the house? Would an area rug soften the hard sounds of foot traffic? Pause on each of your senses and make notes.”
Bringing the Outdoors In
Incorporating organic elements can boost the vitality of any living space. “House plants are a wonderful way to bring the green world into our homes. Go for organic ones if possible, and if you’re worried you may forget to water them, consider plants like scented leaf pelargoniums; for example, Royal Oak. They thrive on neglect and can also provide some wonderful room fragrances,” says English. She also suggests including natural or quality faux branches and blooms in the home as ways of decorating—berries to provide splashes of rich orange, pine cones dabbed with metallic paint, or even long stems of ivy leaves twisted into garlands.
Having live plants in the home also benefits physical health. “Adding a few real plants to a space can help reduce environmental toxins found in paints and manmade products, as well as electromagnetic frequencies—by-products of electronics.”
Ridge concurs, “Cacti can be a charming alternative for those of us who don’t have a green thumb, but still want to enjoy a living plant indoors.”
In the end, a place of sanctuary comes from a place of love. English sums it up best: “If you pour that sense of love into your home, you will, over time, find that mirrored back at you, and you’ll feel it whenever you go through your front door.”
Marlaina Donato is the author of several books and a composer.
Tips from our experts
Feng shui tips from Bridget Saraka:
Give everyone in the household daily, weekly and monthly chores to help maintain a clean, healthy, safe, beautiful and calm home.
Make sure that each space has optimum lighting, that all light bulbs work and window treatments are opened daily to fill each room with natural light.
Position the beds in the home to have a view of the door entering the room. This is called the “command position”, which instills a sense of control over the immediate environment.
Practical suggestions from Rachel Anne Ridge:
Start with the floor. Simply pick up and straighten the items there—shoes, books, papers, coats and that stack of items earmarked for donating that you set in the corner weeks ago. A clear walk space gives you immediate energy and a sense of order.
Use a timer. Setting it for five minutes (or giving yourself just enough time to let a teabag steep in a cup) is perfect motivation to unload a dishwasher, clear the junk mail from the counter or wipe down a sink.
Reduce indoor noise pollution. Installing felt bumpers on cabinet doors and drawers is a tiny activity that yields big results. Cover the feet of kitchen chairs with pads and use fabric placemats on tables. Throw rugs can also soften sounds. Upgrading speakers for TVs and devices can improve sound quality and facilitate lower volumes.
Inspiration from Ali English:
One of my most favorite guidelines is William Morris’ adage, “Keep nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”
Never feel that you are “stuck” with where you’ve placed furniture and items. I move things around my home on a regular basis, only really settling when furniture has found the place where it merges most perfectly with the overall energy of a room.
Begin by creating a “mood board” where you collect ideas that inspire you.
Home, whether a humble studio apartment or a dream house, is a critical facet of well-being, a spiritual headquarters from which good health springs. Everyone in the family, including two- and four-legged children, can benefit from an environment that feels like a sacred space. Creating nourishing corners, along with more open areas that feed the senses and a system of functional ease, can be a deep and rewarding act of self-care.Soul-inspiring visuals, satisfying textures and natural, delightful scents are all desirable domestic companions. A small, ambient lamp in a bathroom or a spring-colored sheer in a window can invite the benediction of light.Create daily rituals with small, manageable goals that’ll help sustain balance and harmony.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-03-26--Climate Warriors Unite: A Call to Action

The fire changed Villaseñor ’ s life .
“ I was very upset , and I wanted to understand why these fires were happening , ” she says .
“ I started to research climate change and wildfires , and began to see the scientific connection between the two.
” Awakened by personal concerns and ignited by emerging role models , activists of all ages are learning how to become effective climate warriors .
Watching Greta Thunberg speak soon after the California disaster to world leaders at COP 24 , the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poland , empowered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protest .
“ Greta gave permission to students all around the world to make their voices heard , ” she says of the Swedish teenager whose school strike initiative— Fridays for Future —has become a worldwide phenomenon .
“ There are so many ways that young people can get involved , ” says Villaseñor .
“ They can give presentations about climate change in their classes and communities .
Go out with a sign and protest , or lobby politicians .
Have clear demands of what you want your city or town to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ action influence action nationally and internationally.
” Dianne Rhodes , 76 , of Saskatoon , Canada , began her activism in 2006 after seeing Al Gore ’ s documentary An Inconvenient Truth .
“ It was shocking what we were doing to the environment , our home , our planet .
It hit me like a freight train , and I saw the urgency , ” she says .
Rhodes trained with Gore , enabling herself to give up-to-date , truthful and science-based slide presentations .
Her talks vary in subject and audience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of pre-K kids to in-depth climate science for business professionals .
“ Activism is a way of letting people know what ’ s happening .
It ’ s so important to get that awareness , to give people hope and then to show them how they can make a difference , ” she explains .
Rhodes recommends both grassroots and “ grass-top ” action , including protest marches , working directly with city planners and changing personal behavior and choices at home .
She ’ s excited about a new initiative in Canada @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hall meetings all across the country based on the Green New Deal … where people talk about how to get a city ’ s carbon emissions down—what we can do in our neighborhoods , and how we can go after our city governments to get them behind this as fast as possible.
” Solemi Hernandez , 41 , a Venezuelan immigrant raising two sons in Naples , Florida , quit her job and took out a loan so she could dedicate all her time to environmental activism .
“ Ecosystems are about to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the exact tipping point .
I don ’ t see a healthy future for my kids , ” she says .
One month after her dramatic decision , the Citizens Climate Lobby hired her to become its southeast regional coordinator .
“ We ’ re going to create and elect new decision-makers instead of trying to change those leaders that are not representing us.
” In 2019 , Hernandez attended COP 25 in Spain and saw Thunberg up close speaking to thousands of cheering activists .
“ Greta is an inspiration , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to solve the issues , ” she says .
“ It ’ s on us to organize in our communities , see what can we do personally and not look to her to be the savior .
We are the ones we ’ ve been waiting for.
” In November 2018 , one of the worst fires in California history overtook the town of Paradise and surrounding communities , killing 88 people and destroying more than 18,000 buildings .
Alexandria Villaseñor , who was visiting family 100 miles away in her hometown of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the smoke : Every breath was difficult for the asthmatic teen who is now 14 and lives in New York City.Natural Awakenings

The fire changed Villaseñor’s life. “I was very upset, and I wanted to understand why these fires were happening,” she says. “I started to research climate change and wildfires, and began to see the scientific connection between the two.”
Awakened by personal concerns and ignited by emerging role models, activists of all ages are learning how to become effective climate warriors. Watching Greta Thunberg speak soon after the California disaster to world leaders at COP 24, the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poland, empowered Villaseñor to take to the streets and protest. “Greta gave permission to students all around the world to make their voices heard,” she says of the Swedish teenager whose school strike initiative— Fridays for Future —has become a worldwide phenomenon.
On December 14, 2018, Villaseñor began her own Friday vigils outside the U.N.—sometimes alone, other times with friends she’s inspired to take action; she also helped organize the 2019 Global Climate Strike in New York City, attended by more than 300,000 people, and founded Earth Uprising , a nonprofit global youth movement. She’s one of 16 youngsters, along with Thunberg, that filed a legal complaint with the U.N. demanding that France, Germany, Brazil, Argentina and Turkey curb their carbon emissions.
“There are so many ways that young people can get involved,” says Villaseñor. “They can give presentations about climate change in their classes and communities. Go out with a sign and protest, or lobby politicians. Have clear demands of what you want your city or town to do. I’ve seen local action influence action nationally and internationally.”
DisobeyArt/Shutterstock.com
Dianne Rhodes, 76, of Saskatoon, Canada, began her activism in 2006 after seeing Al Gore’s documentary An Inconvenient Truth. “It was shocking what we were doing to the environment, our home, our planet. It hit me like a freight train, and I saw the urgency,” she says.
Rhodes trained with Gore, enabling herself to give up-to-date, truthful and science-based slide presentations. Her talks vary in subject and audience, from composting instructions for a group of pre-K kids to in-depth climate science for business professionals. “Activism is a way of letting people know what’s happening. It’s so important to get that awareness, to give people hope and then to show them how they can make a difference,” she explains.
Rhodes recommends both grassroots and “grass-top” action, including protest marches, working directly with city planners and changing personal behavior and choices at home. She’s excited about a new initiative in Canada: “We’re doing town hall meetings all across the country based on the Green New Deal … where people talk about how to get a city’s carbon emissions down—what we can do in our neighborhoods, and how we can go after our city governments to get them behind this as fast as possible.”
Solemi Hernandez, 41, a Venezuelan immigrant raising two sons in Naples, Florida, quit her job and took out a loan so she could dedicate all her time to environmental activism. “Ecosystems are about to collapse and we don’t know the exact tipping point. I don’t see a healthy future for my kids,” she says. One month after her dramatic decision, the Citizens Climate Lobby hired her to become its southeast regional coordinator. “We’re going to create and elect new decision-makers instead of trying to change those leaders that are not representing us.”
In 2019, Hernandez attended COP 25 in Spain and saw Thunberg up close speaking to thousands of cheering activists. “Greta is an inspiration, but it’s not on her shoulders to solve the issues,” she says. “It’s on us to organize in our communities, see what can we do personally and not look to her to be the savior. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.”
In November 2018, one of the worst fires in California history overtook the town of Paradise and surrounding communities, killing 88 people and destroying more than 18,000 buildings. Alexandria Villaseñor, who was visiting family 100 miles away in her hometown of Davis, experienced the suffocating effects of the smoke: Every breath was difficult for the asthmatic teen who is now 14 and lives in New York City.Natural Awakenings


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-15--Ways to Celebrate Earth Day 2020 From Home

Inevitably , Earth Day 2020 will look different than it ever has due to the coronavirus pandemic .
However , there are still many ways to participate in the 50th anniversary of the global environmental movement .
Earth Day Network has announced that they have partnered up with the social network We Don ’ t Have Time and Exponential Roadmap to present a live stream of what ’ s expected to be the world ’ s largest-ever online climate conference .
Starting on April 20 , the world ’ s key experts , from United Nations representatives and government officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ join forces for five days to collaborate on what ’ s needed to build a better future to avert the largest crisis humanity has ever faced .
More localized Earth Day events may be available in your area through a digital format .
Taking a pledge to go pesticide-free , committing to reduce meat from one ’ s diet or organizing an online community climate discussion are some other ways to honor the cause safely from home .
For information on viewing the climate conference live stream , local online events and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Network .

Inevitably, Earth Day 2020 will look different than it ever has due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, there are still many ways to participate in the 50th anniversary of the global environmental movement. Earth Day Network has announced that they have partnered up with the social network We Don’t Have Time and Exponential Roadmap to present a live stream of what’s expected to be the world’s largest-ever online climate conference. Starting on April 20, the world’s key experts, from United Nations representatives and government officials to scientists and organization campaigners, will join forces for five days to collaborate on what’s needed to build a better future to avert the largest crisis humanity has ever faced.
More localized Earth Day events may be available in your area through a digital format. Taking a pledge to go pesticide-free, committing to reduce meat from one’s diet or organizing an online community climate discussion are some other ways to honor the cause safely from home.
For information on viewing the climate conference live stream, local online events and other ways to participate, visit Earth Day Network.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-13--Healthy, Eco-Friendly Ways to Spend Time at Home

If you are looking for productive ways to spend your time while observing stay-at-home orders during the coronavirus pandemic , Natural Awakenings has you covered .
Pulled from our extensive archives , here are some healthy , earth-friendly activities you can partake in from the comfort and safety of your home .
Meditation can counteract the negative effects of acute and chronic stress , lower high blood pressure and help to bring the body back into balance .
Here is how to start a regular practice .
Read More » Awakening to Spirit : Prayer and Meditation Heal and Free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our true identity through spiritual practices , we open the door to vast expanses of peace , healing and joy .
Read More » Backyard Gardening : How to Get a Lot From Your Plot Whether this is your first year growing a kitchen garden or your thumb glows green from years of use , it ’ s possible to quickly turn dreams of bountiful organic harvests into a reality .
Read More » Yoga aims to integrate mind , body and spirit , offering healthful benefits to individuals of every age and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many styles of yoga to get you started .
Read More » If even touching our toes is too much of a stretch , restorative yoga might be a good first move .
It uses pillows , blocks and blankets to support the body in deeply healthful asanas .
Read More » You do n't have to be super-flexible or practice intense poses to enjoy the many health and wellness benefits of yoga , available to any age group or physical type .
Read More » Getting rid of the old can by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ space not only in our closets but in our psyches .
Read More » Stay-at-home orders allow for the opportunity to transform your residence into a sanctuary of peace .
Here are ways to reduce clutter and enhance flow to make your house feel like a sacred ... Read More » We don ’ t have to be kids to once again take up coloring pages of inviting graphics that induce calm , improve fine motor skills and enhance our creativity .
Read More » Music as Medicine : Music Soothes , Energizes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a guitar , humming , or listening to a favorite tune , music has potent healing abilities for what ails us , from depression to addiction to pain .
Read More » Breathe In , Breathe Out : Three Exercises For Better Health Most of us are oblivious to our breathing habits and do not breathe correctly .
The road to better health may well be just a few breaths away with these 3 breathing exercises .
Read More » Mindful Minutes for Little Ones : Yoga Helps Kids Focus and Relax Children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yoga on a deep level , both on and off the mat .
Here is how kids can get started practicing yoga to reap the many health benefits .
Read More » Gardening for Kids : The Fun of Growing Their Own How to involve kids in growing their own garden to get them outdoors , foster an appetite for fruits and veggies , teach them planning , and develop their motor , literacy and scientific skills .
Read More » The Pure Joy of Play : Why Kids Need Unstructured Fun Numerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for “ free play ” is so important that pediatricians are writing prescriptions for it .
Here are ways to encourage more playtime in kids ' lives .
Read More » Please note that because these articles were pulled from our archives , this content was originally produced prior to the COVID-19 pandemic .
While the majority of this material is still practical and relevant , if there is any reference to information that does not coincide with stay-at-home orders , social distancing or any other protocols surrounding the coronavirus , please disregard @ @ @ @ @ @

If you are looking for productive ways to spend your time while observing stay-at-home orders during the coronavirus pandemic, Natural Awakenings has you covered. Pulled from our extensive archives, here are some healthy, earth-friendly activities you can partake in from the comfort and safety of your home.
1. Exercise
2. Meditate
Meditation Made Easy: Simple Tips for Health, Happiness and Peace Meditation can counteract the negative effects of acute and chronic stress, lower high blood pressure and help to bring the body back into balance. Here is how to start a regular practice. Read More »
3. Start a garden
Herbs that Beat the Heat: Favorite Varieties that Flourish in Summer Some of the best plants to keep as summer companions are herbs that enrich life with their flavors, fragrances and beauty. Whether potted or in the garden, these herbs thrive in hot weather. Read More »
Backyard Gardening: How to Get a Lot From Your Plot Whether this is your first year growing a kitchen garden or your thumb glows green from years of use, it’s possible to quickly turn dreams of bountiful organic harvests into a reality. Read More »
4. Practice yoga
Natural Awakenings Yoga Guide Yoga aims to integrate mind, body and spirit, offering healthful benefits to individuals of every age and physical condition. This guide explains the many styles of yoga to get you started. Read More »
Relax and Unwind: Restorative Yoga Poses Foster Healing If even touching our toes is too much of a stretch, restorative yoga might be a good first move. It uses pillows, blocks and blankets to support the body in deeply healthful asanas. Read More »
Why Our Body Loves Yoga: Gentle Poses Foster Flexibility You don't have to be super-flexible or practice intense poses to enjoy the many health and wellness benefits of yoga, available to any age group or physical type. Read More »
5. Catch up on sleep
6. Tidy up the house
Spring Decluttering: Many Benefits of Reorganizing Getting rid of the old can by done step by step, opening up space not only in our closets but in our psyches. Read More »
A Home That Heals: Creating a Nurturing Space Stay-at-home orders allow for the opportunity to transform your residence into a sanctuary of peace. Here are ways to reduce clutter and enhance flow to make your house feel like a sacred... Read More »
7. Create art
8. Cook healthy meals
Meatless Makeover: A Plant-Based Spin on Classic Dishes How to turn classic meat recipes into healthy, plant-based versions without losing any taste or texture including vegan popcorn chicken, walnut tacos and mushroom, sage and onion Wellington. Read More »
Zenful Eating: Mindful Meals in Quiet Gratitude How to cook more mindfully, enjoy meals more fully and eat in better balance, plus healthy recipes for Buddha Bowls and Hearty Moroccan Soup. Read More »
9. Clean
10. Listen to music
11. Just breathe
Inhaling the Joy of Life: Conscious Breathwork Mindfully guiding our breath back to its original rhythm helps lower stress and improve vagal tone, easing such conditions as depression, insomnia and pain syndromes. Read More »
Breathe In, Breathe Out: Three Exercises For Better Health Most of us are oblivious to our breathing habits and do not breathe correctly. The road to better health may well be just a few breaths away with these 3 breathing exercises. Read More »
12. Do nothing
Jenny Odell on the Importance of Doing Nothing Visual artist and writer Jenny Odell on her new book, How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy, and why we must rebel against the seductive pull of 24/7 availability. Read More »
Doing Nothing: Why Timeouts Matter It’s hard to take timeouts to do nothing. Yet, when we pump the brakes, we discover fresh productivity, creativity and contentment. Here are tips to reclaim the art of be-ing over do-ing. Read More »
BONUS: Just for Kids
Mindful Minutes for Little Ones: Yoga Helps Kids Focus and Relax Children's developing bodies and minds respond to yoga on a deep level, both on and off the mat. Here is how kids can get started practicing yoga to reap the many health benefits. Read More »
Gardening for Kids: The Fun of Growing Their Own How to involve kids in growing their own garden to get them outdoors, foster an appetite for fruits and veggies, teach them planning, and develop their motor, literacy and scientific skills. Read More »
The Pure Joy of Play: Why Kids Need Unstructured Fun Numerous studies show that giving kids open time for “free play” is so important that pediatricians are writing prescriptions for it. Here are ways to encourage more playtime in kids' lives. Read More »
Please note that because these articles were pulled from our archives, this content was originally produced prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the majority of this material is still practical and relevant, if there is any reference to information that does not coincide with stay-at-home orders, social distancing or any other protocols surrounding the coronavirus, please disregard those sections at this time.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-03-31--Ways to Calm Your Anxiety with Meditation During the Coronavirus Pandemic

With all the uncertainty we are facing today causing individuals to develop anxious feelings , now is the perfect time to start a regular mindfulness meditation practice .
Michigan Technological University shows that even a single mindfulness meditation session can significantly reduce anxiety and lower heart rates .
In addition , a study out of Trinity College Dublin , in Ireland , uncovered an anatomical reason why breath-based meditation practices can enhance mental clarity and focus , as yogis have long claimed .
Mindfulness practices go by many names and can be done sitting or walking , but all are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are three common practices that you can start today : 1 .
Guided visualization .
Guided visualization involves the meditator intentionally creating a mental image , typically one of a peaceful , beautiful place .
Typically , the goal of a guided visualization is deep relaxation and stress reduction .
2 .
Mantra meditations .
Mantra meditations involve continuous repetition of a word , phrase or sound , drawing spiritual power from the sound ’ s vibration , as well as its meaning .
Many mantras are uttered in a tradition ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meaning peace in Sanskrit .
Some teachers prefer to use mantras in English that meditators can more easily grasp , such as , “ Love is the way.
” 3 .
Breathing meditation .
Meditation experts say our ever-present breath is a sound foundation for a meditation practice , as well as an easy place to start .

Mindfulness practices go by many names and can be done sitting or walking, but all are focused on cultivating moment-to-moment awareness. Here are three common practices that you can start today:
1. Guided visualization. Guided visualization involves the meditator intentionally creating a mental image, typically one of a peaceful, beautiful place. Typically, the goal of a guided visualization is deep relaxation and stress reduction.
2. Mantra meditations. Mantra meditations involve continuous repetition of a word, phrase or sound, drawing spiritual power from the sound’s vibration, as well as its meaning. Many mantras are uttered in a tradition’s native language, such as shanti, meaning peace in Sanskrit. Some teachers prefer to use mantras in English that meditators can more easily grasp, such as, “Love is the way.”
3. Breathing meditation. Meditation experts say our ever-present breath is a sound foundation for a meditation practice, as well as an easy place to start.


Immune System Resources

Natural Immune Boosters for Kids : How to Power Up Their Defenses As kids head into the school year , @ @ @ @ @ encouraging them to exercise and address stress can help raise their immunity .
Read More @

As kids head into the school year, choosing the right food and encouraging them to exercise and address stress can help raise their immunity. Read More »


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-03-10--Virus-Free Hands and Home: Research-Proven DIY Sanitizers That Work

When we ’ re out and about , if we can ’ t use a sink and soap to ward off the COVID-19 coronavirus , a hand sanitizer can work , advises the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) —as long as it ’ s 60 percent alcohol .
But with many store shelves empty and some sanitizers selling for up to $ 150 online and commercial disinfectants in short supply , it ’ s time to turn to an easy , cheap and environmentally friendly solution—making a batch at home .
The most basic formula @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most study-proven , is to mix in a bowl a ratio of two parts alcohol , which wards off germs , to one part aloe vera gel or liquid , which binds the alcohol and protects hands .
The alcohol most recommended is 99 percent isopropyl alcohol , a disinfectant found at pharmacies and grocery stores that is typically used to clean surface wounds and take off nail polish .
If 99 percent isopropyl ( rubbing alcohol ) can ’ t be found , 91 percent or 70 percent isopropyl can also work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available in high-alcohol-content vodka and rum .
The numbers are important : Most often liquor is 80 proof—or 40 percent alcohol—which doesn ’ t work .
Aloe gel can be found in natural-food stores .
After mixing the alcohol and aloe , decant them into a small spray bottle .
To give the sanitizer fragrance and added punch , add a few drops of essential oils .
According to Medical News Today , top antiviral essential oils include bergamot , eucalyptus , red thyme , cinnamon leaf , tea tree oil and lemon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of making contact with a doorknob , cup or toilet seat used by someone infected with the virus , the latest study from Infection Prevention in Practice reports that based on experience with previous coronaviruses like SARS and MERS , some disinfectant agents effectively reduce the infection potential within one minute , including a solution of one part chlorine bleach to 50 parts water .
Rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can also rid surfaces of viruses , say researchers .
When it comes to keeping hands virus-free , research suggests that when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without soap— is a superior method .
In a study published in September in the journal mSphere , researchers found that hand-washing removed the flu virus from hands more quickly and more effectively than using a dab of alcohol-based hand sanitizer .

When we’re out and about, if we can’t use a sink and soap to ward off the COVID-19 coronavirus, a hand sanitizer can work, advises the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) —as long as it’s 60 percent alcohol. But with many store shelves empty and some sanitizers selling for up to $150 online and commercial disinfectants in short supply, it’s time to turn to an easy, cheap and environmentally friendly solution—making a batch at home.
The most basic formula, and the one that’s most study-proven, is to mix in a bowl a ratio of two parts alcohol, which wards off germs, to one part aloe vera gel or liquid, which binds the alcohol and protects hands. The alcohol most recommended is 99 percent isopropyl alcohol, a disinfectant found at pharmacies and grocery stores that is typically used to clean surface wounds and take off nail polish. If 99 percent isopropyl (rubbing alcohol) can’t be found, 91 percent or 70 percent isopropyl can also work. Another option is 180-proof liquor, available in high-alcohol-content vodka and rum.
The numbers are important: Most often liquor is 80 proof—or 40 percent alcohol—which doesn’t work. Aloe gel can be found in natural-food stores. After mixing the alcohol and aloe, decant them into a small spray bottle.
To give the sanitizer fragrance and added punch, add a few drops of essential oils. According to Medical News Today, top antiviral essential oils include bergamot, eucalyptus, red thyme, cinnamon leaf, tea tree oil and lemon balm. If there’s the risk of making contact with a doorknob, cup or toilet seat used by someone infected with the virus, the latest study from Infection Prevention in Practice reports that based on experience with previous coronaviruses like SARS and MERS, some disinfectant agents effectively reduce the infection potential within one minute, including a solution of one part chlorine bleach to 50 parts water. Rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can also rid surfaces of viruses, say researchers.
When it comes to keeping hands virus-free, research suggests that when possible, washing hands under running water—even without soap— is a superior method. In a study published in September in the journal mSphere, researchers found that hand-washing removed the flu virus from hands more quickly and more effectively than using a dab of alcohol-based hand sanitizer.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-03-27--Healthy Home, Healthy Kids: How to Keep Them Safe

The Everything Guide to a Healthy Home : All You Need to Know to Protect You and Your Family from Hidden Dangers .
Here are some practical steps to take .
A healthy home for kids looks much like what ’ s needed for a healthy planet : clean air , clean water and clean food , all of which create a space in which our children can be well and thrive .
This means taking active steps to eliminate everyday contaminants that can harm their developing organs and brains .
“ Children are not mini-adults .
Their bodies can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effectively as a full-grown adult body can , ” says Kimberly Button , author of .
Here are some practical steps to take .
The chemicals in popular disinfectants alter children ’ s gut microbes and heavy use leads to higher body mass index by age 3 , reports Canadian researchers ; eco-friendly cleaning agents do not harm kids ’ health , they found .
A solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water can be used to clean counters , floors and toilets .
The acetic acid in vinegar can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , recent studies have shown.Mold , especially if it ’ s black , is highly toxic to children : a Polish study found it lowered IQs in children under 6 .
“ When the mycotoxins in mold affect children ’ s developing nervous systems we may see fatigue , difficulty learning , and attention issues , ” says naturopath Jill Crista of Janesville , Wisconsin , author of .
She recommends mixing in a glass ( not plastic ) spray bottle essential oils , such as rosemary , holy basil , tea tree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and using a disposable cloth to wipe it off .
The essential oils “ not only kill mold , but neutralize the toxins , ” she says .
“ It won ’ t fix mold on porous surfaces , which require professional remediation.
” Children that breathe secondhand smoke are more prone to ear infections , coughs and colds , tooth decay and respiratory problems like asthma and pneumonia , and they miss more days of school , reports the .
Even smoke residue that clings to clothes , furniture , bedding and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this third-hand smoke is inhaled , absorbed or ingested.Because children drink more water per pound than adults , even low levels of contaminants can impact their IQ and behavior .
Check with the local health department to see if it offers free test kits , buy one at a hardware store or find a local lab by calling the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.Several types of water purification systems , including tap-mounted , under-sink and pitchers , are effective and affordable , ranging from $ 20 to $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Sanitation Foundation testing agency that address contaminants identified by the water test.
“ Swapping to mostly organic foods is a good way to reduce your child ’ s daily toxic burden and reduce their risk of developing gut issues , autoimmune diseases , and food sensitivities and allergies , ” says Caitlin Self , a licensed dietitian and functional nutritionist in Baltimore who blogs at Frugal Nutrition .
Using the list of the Dirty Dozen pesticide-laden produce compiled by the Environmental Working Group as well as its recommended Clean 15 makes shopping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 30 seconds reduces pesticide residues for nine of 12 pesticides , a study by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station found .
Saltwater or vinegar rinses also remove pesticides effectively , and in a recentstudy , soaking apples in one ounce of baking soda to 100 ounces of water for 15 minutes removed 80 and 96 percent of two pesticides , respectively , even under the skin of the fruit.After-school munchies are not only natural , but healthy .
“ Kids ’ little tummies tend to need more frequent feedings than fully formed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sugar , ” says Self .
Rather than highly processed crackers , pudding and most granola bars , offer combos like grapes with cheese , celery with peanut butter or hummus on whole-wheat bread .
“ Some parents will need to rely on some more packaged snacks to get through , ” says Self , who recommends trail mix , fresh fruit or crispy chickpeas .

The Everything Guide to a Healthy Home: All You Need to Know to Protect You and Your Family from Hidden Dangers. Here are some practical steps to take. A healthy home for kids looks much like what’s needed for a healthy planet: clean air, clean water and clean food, all of which create a space in which our children can be well and thrive. This means taking active steps to eliminate everyday contaminants that can harm their developing organs and brains. “Children are not mini-adults. Their bodies cannot filter out toxins and chemicals as effectively as a full-grown adult body can,” says Kimberly Button , author of. Here are some practical steps to take.
Clean Air
Clean Water
Clean Food
Ronica A. O’Hara is a Denver-based health writer. Connect at [email protected].
The chemicals in popular disinfectants alter children’s gut microbes and heavy use leads to higher body mass index by age 3, reports Canadian researchers; eco-friendly cleaning agents do not harm kids’ health, they found. A solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water can be used to clean counters, floors and toilets. The acetic acid in vinegar can deactivate even the flu and tuberculosis viruses, recent studies have shown.Mold, especially if it’s black, is highly toxic to children: a Polish study found it lowered IQs in children under 6. “When the mycotoxins in mold affect children’s developing nervous systems we may see fatigue, difficulty learning, and attention issues,” says naturopath Jill Crista of Janesville, Wisconsin, author of. She recommends mixing in a glass (not plastic) spray bottle essential oils, such as rosemary, holy basil, tea tree or eucalyptus, spraying the mold, and using a disposable cloth to wipe it off. The essential oils “not only kill mold, but neutralize the toxins,” she says. “It won’t fix mold on porous surfaces, which require professional remediation.”Children that breathe secondhand smoke are more prone to ear infections, coughs and colds, tooth decay and respiratory problems like asthma and pneumonia, and they miss more days of school, reports the. Even smoke residue that clings to clothes, furniture, bedding and other surfaces can harm a child when this third-hand smoke is inhaled, absorbed or ingested.Because children drink more water per pound than adults, even low levels of contaminants can impact their IQ and behavior. Check with the local health department to see if it offers free test kits, buy one at a hardware store or find a local lab by calling the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.Several types of water purification systems, including tap-mounted, under-sink and pitchers, are effective and affordable, ranging from $20 to $300. Seek filters certified by the National Sanitation Foundation testing agency that address contaminants identified by the water test.“Swapping to mostly organic foods is a good way to reduce your child’s daily toxic burden and reduce their risk of developing gut issues, autoimmune diseases, and food sensitivities and allergies,” says Caitlin Self , a licensed dietitian and functional nutritionist in Baltimore who blogs at Frugal Nutrition . Using the list of the Dirty Dozen pesticide-laden produce compiled by the Environmental Working Group as well as its recommended Clean 15 makes shopping organic easier.Simply rinsing produce under cold water for 30 seconds reduces pesticide residues for nine of 12 pesticides, a study by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station found. Saltwater or vinegar rinses also remove pesticides effectively, and in a recentstudy, soaking apples in one ounce of baking soda to 100 ounces of water for 15 minutes removed 80 and 96 percent of two pesticides, respectively, even under the skin of the fruit.After-school munchies are not only natural, but healthy. “Kids’ little tummies tend to need more frequent feedings than fully formed adults to ensure they have stable blood sugar,” says Self. Rather than highly processed crackers, pudding and most granola bars, offer combos like grapes with cheese, celery with peanut butter or hummus on whole-wheat bread. “Some parents will need to rely on some more packaged snacks to get through,” says Self, who recommends trail mix, fresh fruit or crispy chickpeas.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-03-26--Flower Power: Botanical Libations Pack Healthy Punch

While many botanical drink recipes call for simple sugar syrup , Winslow suggests honey with a splash of water as a substitute .
Other drinks are naturally sweet , like jasmine tea steeped in apple cider .
Sinnott likes to fuse the power of flowers with other botanical elements such as rose petals in a light raspberry drink .
“ I also use rosewater in a warm elixir with a base of reishi mushroom tea , goji berries , turmeric , cinnamon and ginger , cacao , pearl powder and honey .
Rose is a heart-opener and vitalizes the body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tonifying ingredients , ” says Sinnott .
Winslow stresses the importance of buying organic ingredients , as many flowers are sprayed with toxic pesticides—or better yet , home-grown .
She suggests the tea aisle of natural food stores is a good place for procuring organic floral ingredients such as chamomile and jasmine , which often come unblended in whole form .
Dried flowers are easier to source and are often more potent than fresh , she says .
“ Fresh is pretty , but can be more subtle in flavor.
” Her rose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rim drinks or seasonal dishes , calls for dried roses , which have a longer shelf life and won ’ t clump up like fresh petals .
Marie Viljoen , Brooklyn-based author of Forage , Harvest , Feast : A Wild-Inspired Cuisine , suggests using cold infusions rather than heat or boiling flowers to retain their flavors and aromas .
She also recommends picking flowers early in the morning or late afternoon , when their scent peaks .
Some of Viljoen ’ s seasonal foraged favorites include the fragrant elderflower , honeysuckle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like to capture milkweed ’ s fragrance and deep pink color in a wild soda or a sweet cordial.
” For newbie foragers , drink ingredients can be sourced as easily as herbs from a window box , like the antiviral thyme , which makes for a delicious wild soda made from a handful of herbs , sweetener and water left on the countertop a few days to lightly ferment and fizz .
Another spring favorite , tender young spruce tips , has a sour flavor that ferments well with strawberries and rhubarb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can also be used to make vinegar , a longer process resulting in a more enduring product with great botanical properties .
“ You can create a sipping vinegar , which is good to mix with seltzer or slow-cook with , ” says Viljoen .
Whether botanical ingredients are foraged , bought or brought in from the backyard garden to be put in a hot tea , a cocktail or a cold brew , the magic is in the making .
“ Flowers are endless fun to experiment with , especially when added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brings life to the kitchen , ” says Winslow .
Here ’ s an Indian-inspired herbal infusion featuring classic Ayurvedic herbs that help spread unconditional love that is so needed in the world right now .
It ’ s recommended that you serve the infusion on heated rose quartz crystals ; this will continue to emanate the love .
This recipe is best made in larger quantities and stored for use throughout the year or whenever you need to spread or share more love with friends and family .
Yields : 3½ oz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ zeylanicum ) ½ oz ginger root ( Zingiber officinalis ) , dried .2 oz ashwagandha root ( Withania somnifera ) , dried .2 oz rhatavari root ( Asparagus racemosus ) , dried ½ oz rose petals ( Rosa spp ) , dried .4 oz rose hips ( Rosa canina ) , dried 1 oz tulsi ( Ocimum tenuiflorum ) , dried For the warm rose quartz : 3-4 Rough pieces of rose quartz crystal Mix all the herbs together in a large bowl , then decant into a sealable pouch or jar , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sunlight .
Cleanse the crystals , by first rinsing and gently scrubbing them under running water , then place in the sun for a few hours and whisper some love poetry to them .
Place the crystals in the oven on a low heat ( 158 to 170° F ) for 15 minutes , or until hot .
Place the crystals in the teacups .
For a pot for 3 to 4 people , take 6 heaping teaspoons of the blend , pour over freshly boiled water , infuse with the lid on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fine strain and serve in cups over the warm pieces of rose quartz crystal .
Recipe courtesy of Michael Isted , the Herball .
“ I love to make a bowl of soul when I need to unwind , as this beverage is quite soothing , ” says Cassie Winslow .
“ Dandelions have a subtle spice that pairs so nicely with other warming spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg .
Steeped in your favorite nutty milk , this ’ ll be your new go-to goodie when you want to sit with your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sip on something warm.
” Yields : one beverage 1 cup , unsweetened , almond milk or hazelnut milk 1 Tbsp honey ( or agave sweetener ) 1 dandelion tea bag Freshly ground nutmeg for garnish Garnishing is a great way to use fresh edible flowers and show off their natural shapes and colors , says Cassie Winslow , author of Floral Libations : 41 Drinks + Ingredients and founder of the blog Drinks can be dressed up with a floral sugar or salt rim using rose or lavender .
“ I like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side and not just the top , to give it a cascading effect , ” says Winslow .
Another fun party trick is to set up a bar and let guests garnish their drinks themselves .
Winslow suggests almost any cocktail recipe can be turned into a mocktail by using sparkling water instead of alcohol ; for example , a virgin lilac margarita greyhound .
Floral ice cubes also add a fancy touch to the dinner table .
To capture the blossoms in ice , Viljoen suggests filling the tray halfway with water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and then filling in the rest of the water to refreeze .
Flowers and other budding botanical elements this spring aren ’ t just eye candy to dress the table ; they can bless an everyday beverage with intoxicating new scents , flavors and colors .
“ It ’ s such a joy to see a beautiful flower or plant , smell it and then add it to a delightful beverage or meal .
Plants have so much medicine to share , and it ’ s fun to play with that , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owner of Essential Botany , in Washington , D.C.In a small saucepan , warm the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.Whisk the milk , then slowly add the honey or agave sweetener and whisk together.Pour the milk mixture into a large mug.Add the tea bag and allow to steep for five minutes.Discard the tea bag .
Sprinkle the nutmeg on top.Floral Libations : 41 Drinks + Ingredients.For those that want to impress guests with a little floral flourish at their next dinner party , here are some tips from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Santa Cruz , California .
“ Unless it ’ s a small pretty bloom , you ’ ll want to just use a couple of petals though , as whole flowers can be hard to drink around otherwise .
”

Floral Libations: 41 Drinks + Ingredients and founder of the blog Many beverage favorites can be given a floral twist with little effort, says Cassie Winslow, author ofand founder of the blog Deco Tartelette , in Santa Cruz, California. Winslow’s go-to drinks include lavender-infused lemonade and rose petal almond milk, which can be served hot or cold. “I also love an iced lavender café au lait. If I’m feeling extra fancy, I’ll use fresh flower ice cubes, too.” Dried hibiscus is another favorite of Winslow’s, as even a few petals of the concentrated dark magenta flower will brighten and beautify any beverage—even a yogurt-based drink.
While many botanical drink recipes call for simple sugar syrup, Winslow suggests honey with a splash of water as a substitute. Other drinks are naturally sweet, like jasmine tea steeped in apple cider.
Sinnott likes to fuse the power of flowers with other botanical elements such as rose petals in a light raspberry drink. “I also use rosewater in a warm elixir with a base of reishi mushroom tea, goji berries, turmeric, cinnamon and ginger, cacao, pearl powder and honey. Rose is a heart-opener and vitalizes the body with the immune-boosting reishi and the other tonifying ingredients,” says Sinnott.
Winslow stresses the importance of buying organic ingredients, as many flowers are sprayed with toxic pesticides—or better yet, home-grown. She suggests the tea aisle of natural food stores is a good place for procuring organic floral ingredients such as chamomile and jasmine, which often come unblended in whole form.
Dried flowers are easier to source and are often more potent than fresh, she says. “Fresh is pretty, but can be more subtle in flavor.” Her rose salt recipe, which can be used to rim drinks or seasonal dishes, calls for dried roses, which have a longer shelf life and won’t clump up like fresh petals.
Marie Viljoen, Brooklyn-based author of Forage, Harvest, Feast: A Wild-Inspired Cuisine, suggests using cold infusions rather than heat or boiling flowers to retain their flavors and aromas. She also recommends picking flowers early in the morning or late afternoon, when their scent peaks.
A Cup of Wildflowers
While botanical ingredients can be obtained commercially, it can be more fun—and frugal—to forage for them, suggests Viljoen, founder of the blog 66-Square-Feet . “It’s a lot of fun to go out to collect ingredients you cannot find in the store. You can experience unique textures, flavors and perfumes, and play with wild ingredients that have been all but forgotten,” she says.
Some of Viljoen’s seasonal foraged favorites include the fragrant elderflower, honeysuckle and common milkweed flower. “I like to capture milkweed’s fragrance and deep pink color in a wild soda or a sweet cordial.”
For newbie foragers, drink ingredients can be sourced as easily as herbs from a window box, like the antiviral thyme, which makes for a delicious wild soda made from a handful of herbs, sweetener and water left on the countertop a few days to lightly ferment and fizz. Another spring favorite, tender young spruce tips, has a sour flavor that ferments well with strawberries and rhubarb, says Viljoen.
The same recipe can also be used to make vinegar, a longer process resulting in a more enduring product with great botanical properties. “You can create a sipping vinegar, which is good to mix with seltzer or slow-cook with,” says Viljoen.
Whether botanical ingredients are foraged, bought or brought in from the backyard garden to be put in a hot tea, a cocktail or a cold brew, the magic is in the making. “Flowers are endless fun to experiment with, especially when added to everyday drinks and dishes. It brings life to the kitchen,” says Winslow.
SOOTHING BOTANICAL SIPS
Unconditional Love
photo by Susan Bell
Here’s an Indian-inspired herbal infusion featuring classic Ayurvedic herbs that help spread unconditional love that is so needed in the world right now. It’s recommended that you serve the infusion on heated rose quartz crystals; this will continue to emanate the love. This recipe is best made in larger quantities and stored for use throughout the year or whenever you need to spread or share more love with friends and family.
Yields: 3½ oz beverage
.7 oz cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
½ oz ginger root (Zingiber officinalis), dried
.2 oz ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera), dried
.2 oz rhatavari root (Asparagus racemosus), dried
½ oz rose petals (Rosa spp), dried
.4 oz rose hips (Rosa canina), dried
1 oz tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), dried
For the warm rose quartz:
3-4 Rough pieces of rose quartz crystal
Mix all the herbs together in a large bowl, then decant into a sealable pouch or jar, being sure to store away from direct sunlight.
Cleanse the crystals, by first rinsing and gently scrubbing them under running water, then place in the sun for a few hours and whisper some love poetry to them.
Place the crystals in the oven on a low heat (158 to 170° F) for 15 minutes, or until hot. Place the crystals in the teacups.
For a pot for 3 to 4 people, take 6 heaping teaspoons of the blend, pour over freshly boiled water, infuse with the lid on for 5 to 6 minutes, then fine strain and serve in cups over the warm pieces of rose quartz crystal.
Recipe courtesy of Michael Isted, the Herball.
Dandelion Honey Bowl of Soul
photo by Doan Ly
“I love to make a bowl of soul when I need to unwind, as this beverage is quite soothing,” says Cassie Winslow. “Dandelions have a subtle spice that pairs so nicely with other warming spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Steeped in your favorite nutty milk, this’ll be your new go-to goodie when you want to sit with your thoughts, gaze out the window and sip on something warm.”
Yields: one beverage
1 cup, unsweetened, almond milk or hazelnut milk
1 Tbsp honey (or agave sweetener)
1 dandelion tea bag
Freshly ground nutmeg for garnish
FLORAL PARTY FAVORS
Lestertair/Shutterstock.com
Garnishing is a great way to use fresh edible flowers and show off their natural shapes and colors, says Cassie Winslow, author of Floral Libations: 41 Drinks + Ingredients and founder of the blog
Forage, Harvest, Feast and the Simply infusing fragrant flowers in water overnight can be a refreshing upgrade to table water, says Marie Viljoen, author ofand the 66-Square-Feet blog , based in Brooklyn. “Go for flowers with lots of fragrance, like jasmine, roses or violets. Just put in cool water overnight and strain out the flowers in the morning.”
Drinks can be dressed up with a floral sugar or salt rim using rose or lavender. “I like to rim half the glass on the side and not just the top, to give it a cascading effect,” says Winslow.
Another fun party trick is to set up a bar and let guests garnish their drinks themselves.
Winslow suggests almost any cocktail recipe can be turned into a mocktail by using sparkling water instead of alcohol; for example, a virgin lilac margarita greyhound.
Floral ice cubes also add a fancy touch to the dinner table. To capture the blossoms in ice, Viljoen suggests filling the tray halfway with water, putting in the flowers, freezing and then filling in the rest of the water to refreeze.
Flowers and other budding botanical elements this spring aren’t just eye candy to dress the table; they can bless an everyday beverage with intoxicating new scents, flavors and colors. “It’s such a joy to see a beautiful flower or plant, smell it and then add it to a delightful beverage or meal. Plants have so much medicine to share, and it’s fun to play with that,” says Myra Sinnott, an aromatherapist and owner of Essential Botany, in Washington, D.C.In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.Whisk the milk, then slowly add the honey or agave sweetener and whisk together.Pour the milk mixture into a large mug.Add the tea bag and allow to steep for five minutes.Discard the tea bag. Sprinkle the nutmeg on top.Floral Libations: 41 Drinks + Ingredients.For those that want to impress guests with a little floral flourish at their next dinner party, here are some tips from the experts. Deco Tartelette , in Santa Cruz, California. “Unless it’s a small pretty bloom, you’ll want to just use a couple of petals though, as whole flowers can be hard to drink around otherwise.”