Natural Awakenings Central & Eastern Connecticut December 2024

Inside the December 2024 edition of Natural Awakenings Central & Eastern Connecticut: Soulful Holiday Gifts, Something to Smile About, Practicing Sensory Skills at Home, From Melancholy to Sweet Remembrance, Promoting Self-Care and Addressing Anxiety, Healthier Holiday Cookies, Caring for Anxious Pets While We’re Away and more.

Holidays Filled with Local Gratitude and Self-Care

Our editorial lineup this month reflects the themes of reconnection, rejuvenation, self-care and the emotions around the holidays. Let’s take care of ourselves…and be grateful! Read More »

Promoting Self-Care and Addressing Anxiety

If you’re struggling with anxiety, you’re not alone. The good news? Anxiety is both treatable and manageable. Read More »

BuildGreenCT Celebrates Birthday Benefit

On December 5, 2024, from 6-8:30 p.m., BuildGreenCT is celebrating its first anniversary with a birthday benefit to celebrate and help support its mission to accelerate the just and sustainable transformation of the built environment. Read More »

CT NOFA Call for Presenters, Sponsors and Vendors for Winter Conference

Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut’s 43rd Winter Conference will be taking place on March 1, 2025, at Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic, Connecticut. Read More »

Licensed Therapist Expands to Launch Mind, Body & Soul Wellness, LLC

Jennifer M. Paskiewicz, MS, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over eight years of experience in private practice, has expanded her focus on holistic health by launching Mind, Body & Soul Wellness, LLC in downtown Milford, Connecticut. Read More »

pampering gifts

Soulful Holiday Gifts: Restorative Presents for Loved Ones

The holiday season can be stressful, but self-care is essential. From pampering spa days to thoughtful gestures, learn how to gift and prioritize peace this festive season. Read More »

Jean Shafiroff on A Philanthropist’s Calling

Jean Shafiroff, philanthropist and author of Successful Philanthropy, shares insights on giving back, inspiring others, and finding purpose through generosity. Read More »

holiday baking supplies

Healthier Holiday Cookies: Easy Switches That Don’t Compromise on Taste

Delight in holiday cookies with a healthy twist! Discover sugar swaps, gluten-free tips, and wholesome ingredients for festive treats that are indulgent yet nourishing. Read More »

Molasses Cookies with Dates

Molasses Cookies With Dates

Indulge in these spiced molasses cookies. Made with almond flour, ginger, cinnamon, and sweetened naturally with dates and molasses, they’re a wholesome holiday favorite. Read More »

Thumbprint Cookies with Jam

Thumbprint Cookies With Jam

Savor these delightful vegan thumbprint cookies. Made with almond and whole wheat flour, they're filled with fruity preserves for a festive and wholesome treat perfect for sharing. Read More »

Chocolate Coffee Cookies

Chocolate Coffee Cookies

Enjoy these rich, vegan chocolate nut cookies. Packed with dark chocolate, pecans, and hazelnuts, they're a decadent treat perfect for the holidays or any occasion. Read More »

Chewy Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies

Chewy Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies

Indulge in these guilt-free, vegan chocolate chip cookies with a nutty twist! Packed with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, oats, and dark chocolate, they're perfect for holiday baking. Read More »

fireworks sparklers held by a group

From Melancholy to Sweet Remembrance

The holidays can stir nostalgia for what never was, yet healing comes through creating new traditions and finding joy in the present. Explore ways to soothe the holiday blues. Read More »

woman holiday shopping

Click Local: How Online Shopping Boosts Neighborhood Businesses

Support your community while enjoying online convenience. Discover how local businesses combine personal service with digital tools to thrive in today's shopping landscape. Read More »

12 Ways to Fitness

These exercises, you can develop strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance, making them a well-rounded routine for overall fitness. Read More »

teeth whitening at dentist

Something To Smile About: A Look at Non-Toxic Dental Products

Natural dental care is transforming oral hygiene. From fluoride alternatives to microbiome-friendly practices, explore a healthier, eco-conscious smile revolution. Read More »

baby girl walking on a tactile mat

Practicing Sensory Skills at Home: How To Teach Kids the Senses

Boost your child's sensory skills with fun games and activities. From "Eye Spy" to sensory bins and interoception exercises, discover ways to nurture confidence and curiosity. Read More »

cat and dog looking out a window

Caring for Anxious Pets While We’re Away: How To Choose the Right Kennel or Pet Sitter

Discover expert tips on easing anxiety in pets when you're away, from choosing experienced sitters to holistic calming strategies like CBD and soothing scents. Read More »

service dog with veteran

Service Dogs Benefit Veterans With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A study of veterans with PTSD found those with trained psychiatric service dogs showed reduced symptoms, lower anxiety, and better social functioning. Read More »

acupuncture needles

Acupuncture for Shingles

Acupuncture shows promise as a safe, effective treatment for shingles, easing pain and reducing skin lesions, according to a review of 59 trials with nearly 4,000 patients. Read More »

wet cupping therapy (WCT) for asthma

Wet Cupping Therapy for Asthma

Wet cupping therapy may improve respiratory symptoms in mild to moderate asthma, offering a complementary option alongside standard treatments, a Turkish study suggests. Read More »

stem cell in lab test tube

Stem-Cell Treatment To Reverse Type 1 Diabetes

A phase 1 trial shows promise for reversing Type 1 diabetes: a patient produced insulin independently after stem-cell therapy, remaining injection-free for a year. Read More »

Mindfulness App Helps Intensive Care Patients

A mobile app-based mindfulness program, including guided meditations and symptom management, significantly eased psychological distress in ICU survivors, a study finds. Read More »

Artificial Beaver Dams Protect Wildlife

Artificial beaver dams, mimicking nature’s designs, are revitalizing the Northern Great Plains, restoring ecosystems, improving soil and water, and even attracting real beavers. Read More »

person sweating after exertion

Sweat Monitor Measures Overexertion

A smart elastic band from Northwestern University tracks muscle exertion by analyzing sweat acidity, helping users optimize workouts and prevent soreness. Read More »

insect-eating bat

Linking Biodiversity to Human Health

Biodiversity loss has human costs: a study links declining bat populations to increased pesticide use and higher infant mortality, highlighting nature's role in health and agriculture. Read More »

little boy funny scientist

Funny but Serious Science

The Ig Nobel Prizes celebrated quirky science: researchers showed mammals can breathe through their anuses, and a plant that mimics plastic leaves, sparking laughter and curiosity. Read More »

natural soap bars

Benefits of Bars

Switch to shampoo, conditioner, and dish soap bars for a greener routine. Cut plastic waste, save money, and enjoy natural ingredients with these eco-friendly, long-lasting alternatives. Read More »