tag:www.naturalawakenings.com,2005:/categories/other?page=17Other | Natural Awakenings Magazine Page 17Healthy Living Healthy Planet2019-08-28T16:22:00-04:00urn:uuid:0bdce0ea-a74e-49fc-8b12-6004ff87c1892019-08-28T16:22:00-04:002019-08-28T16:22:00-04:00A Heritage Thanksgiving: Choose This Turkey for Your Feast2008-11-01 21:12:00 -0400Anonymous<p>
Why not choose a heritage turkey for this year’s celebration? Heritage turkeys ensure the survival of the species, are raised sustainably, and taste better, due to their genetic diversity.</p><div class="image-with-caption image-align-right">
<img alt="Narragansett" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/626062/Narragansett-Turkey.jpg"><div class="small">Narragansett</div>
</div>
<p>
Search ‘turkey’ at <a href="http://www.SustainableTable.org">www.SustainableTable.org</a>.</p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:f0275bf2-b4f3-4be2-94bc-b65faf4085ec2019-08-28T16:22:10-04:002019-08-28T16:22:10-04:00Generous Santa: Spread Cheer with Ease this Holiday Season2008-11-01 21:12:00 -0400Anonymous<p>
<span class="dropcap">N</span>ow we can make many more charity contributions than we have budgeted, because we can direct money to good causes without spending any of our own funds, by using <a href="http://GoodSearch.com">GoodSearch.com</a> and <a href="http://GoodShop.com">GoodShop.com</a>. This Yahoo-powered search engine and online shopping mall are revolutionizing online philanthropy.</p>
<p>
More than 65,000 nonprofits and 700 stores have partnered up, so that every online search sends a penny to our favorite charity or school and every online purchase donates up to 37 percent of the purchase price. Even a single large order can generate hundreds of dollars to a grateful cause, and the cumulative impact is tremendous. As an example, supporters of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals have raised more than $18,000 to help animals in need.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>To receive a list of local organizations using this fundraising tool, email <a href="mailto:information@GoodSearch.com">information@GoodSearch.com</a> or call 877-466-3004.</em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:072fdeab-33d1-47a5-9d69-e212b9ae25072019-08-28T16:31:27-04:002019-08-28T16:31:27-04:00Backyard Campout: National Wildlife Federation Makes Fun Easy2008-08-01 03:00:00 -0400Anonymous<p>“I never knew spending the whole day outside could be so fun,” declared one gleeful 7-year-old daughter, hugging her dad. Families across the country have been gathering to pitch a tent, take a hike, spot wildlife and roast marshmallows around the campfire, topped off by a group stargaze. Getting ready to camp out is half the fun. And the National Wildlife Federation puts everyone in touch with every tip they need.</p><p>Browsing the organization’s website turns up tips for packing, camping with kids, erecting a tent, building a campfire and planning the menu. Suggested games and activities even extend to campfire songs. Options include signing up to join a larger group at a favorite campsite.</p><p><br><em>Find everything at <a href="http://www.NWF.org/BackyardCampout">NWF.org/BackyardCampout</a>; click on Ready to Camp.</em></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:0dd8d155-4d1c-4d12-810a-74f25ff066332019-08-28T16:12:56-04:002019-08-28T16:12:56-04:00Time Out: Enhance Your Vacation--and Your Health--With these Mindful Tips2008-07-01 03:00:00 -0400Dana Johnson<p>Taking a vacation—getting away from work and everyday schedules—is more than a fun diversion. It’s vital to spiritual health and de-stressing.</p><p>Dr. Munro Cullum, a psychiatrist and neurologist, who leads UT Southwestern Medical Center’s division of psychology at the University of Texas, confirms that, “Our brains need a rest now and then.”</p><p>Flooded with to-dos and ever more things to remember—passwords, PIN numbers, computer procedures, appointments and email, et al—we can become overwhelmed by the daily demands of our busy society. “Vacations,” advises Cullum, offer an opportune time “to recharge and do things that are outside the normal daily routine.”</p><p>A healthy vacation, experts suggest, provides lasting mind/body benefits. Following these tips will get us there:</p><p>Choose an eco-friendly destination with care. Supporting green resorts affords peace of mind and helps the planet. Seek accommodations that carry environmental-friendly certifications or memberships in green industry associations, such as Green Seal (<a href="http://www.GreenSeal.org">GreenSeal.org</a>) or Best Green Hotels (<a href="http://www.EnvironmentallyFriendlyHotels.com">EnvironmentallyFriendlyHotels.com</a>).</p><p>Be mindful of ways to conserve resources. When possible, take public transportation or rent a smart car. Use a digital camera, rather than disposable or other film cameras. Conserve energy in hotel rooms by turning off lights; use water wisely; reuse towels and sheets. Also avoid room service, which requires additional packaging and linens.</p><p>Keep a loose itinerary. Instead of rushing from place to place or activity to activity, be receptive to a slower pace and live in the moment. Try to do something creative each day, like jotting notes or sketching in a journal; this type of right-brain activity centers us in the present and connects us with our inner selves. Brief periods of meditation or focused breathing also help sustain balance.</p><p>Maintain healthy habits. Eat wisely, get enough rest and exercise moderately.</p><p>Be open to some self-indulgence, too. Time spent pleasurably reinforces a sense of well-being, whether it’s an invigorating hike, beautifully prepared meal, side trip to an art museum, soothing facial or hours spent engrossed in a bestseller.</p><p>Once it’s time to come home, preserve a vacation’s restorative benefits by following this three-step process: First, find a meaningful memento to bring back, one that holds special memories. Use this as an inspirational talisman. Next, return a day early, before the world calls. Allowing gentle reentry time eases the transition. Finally, begin planning another vacation right away. As Dr. Dan Baker, psychologist and author of <em>What Happy Companies Know</em>, points out, “Planning a vacation often is almost as much fun as taking one.”</p><p><br><em>Primary Source: <a href="http://www.UTSouthwestern.org">UTSouthwestern.org</a></em></p><div class="body-sidebar-right p-4">
<strong>Healthy at Home Mini-Vacation</strong><br>-Bring nature indoors with plants to revitalize air. Add waterfalls to help keep energy flowing.<br>-Set aside time to listen to motivational and relaxation audios.<br>-Visit a day spa for some special pampering.<br>-Immerse yourself in the natural world with a visit to a local garden or park, or a waterside walk.<br>-Be silent for a day and observe the thoughts that come.<br>-Watch a spiritual movie that motivates and inspires you. Or, pick a comedy that tickles belly laughs.<br><br><em>Source: Bob Kish</em>
</div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:f61ad185-a1eb-4453-a898-ac9c21b34c262019-08-28T16:31:24-04:002019-08-28T16:31:25-04:00Prescription for a Simple Life: Nourish the Soul and Realize Your Purpose2008-05-01 03:00:00 -0400Linda Breen Pierce<p>Through 40 years of observation and personal experience I have discovered that simplifying one’s life can greatly improve the quality of life. Living simply is not about doing without the material comforts in life. It is about having enough—enough intimacy with others and with nature, enough sense of purpose and fulfilling work, enough fun and joy.</p><p>Living simply is about living in community, as a whole, spiritually-aware human being, caring for oneself, the Earth and others. A more descriptive term might be “mindful living,” “intentional living” or “soulful living”.</p><p>Voluntary simplicity involves living more lightly, with fewer distractions—unburdening life of needless material things, activities or relationships; letting go of anything that interferes with the integrity of life. As one simplicity maven put it, we give up “a giddy, adrenaline-fueled whirl of changing experience without substance, touch without intimacy, information without meaning, company without community.”</p><p>Simplicity requires a two-step process. First, we must invest the time and energy to discover what stirs us as human beings, what makes our hearts sing. Then, we create the life that reflects the unique individual we are. Connecting with our inner self and whatever higher spiritual presence we believe in, all else falls into place.<strong><br></strong></p><p>The concept of simple living is not new. It is a mindset, a way of looking at life, a commitment to live consciously and deliberately. It’s not the same thing as easy living. The deeply satisfying rewards that come include peace and fulfillment, reflected in service and love to others.</p><p class="pullquote">Civilization is a limitless<br>multiplication of<br>unnecessary necessities.<br>~ Mark Twain</p><p>I recommend living in a foreign country, even for a short time, as a catalyst for transitioning to a different way of life at home. Because the pace is so much slower in non-Western cultures, it is relatively easy to slow down and live in the present. For one thing, we are physically removed from all the daily “shoulds”. By removing the noise and confusion of normal life, we can more easily hear from our inner self. Please, never let money stand in the way. Viable options include overseas home exchange, caretaking, volunteer work that includes housing or paid work.</p><p>Note, too, that simplicity for the well-to-do is not an oxymoron. Everyone has the opportunity to discover what is truly satisfying for them, to live mindfully, at a relaxed pace, to engage in activities that nourish the soul and to realize their purpose. It’s a lifelong process.</p> <p><em><br>Adapted from </em>Choosing Simplicity: Real People Finding Peace and Fulfillment in a Complex World<em> and </em>Simplicity Lessons: A 12-Step Guide to Living Simply<em> by Linda Breen Pierce. Contact her at </em><span class="link-external"><a href="http://www.gallagherpress.com/"><em>www.GallagherPress.com</em></a></span><em>.</em><strong><br></strong></p><div class="body-sidebar-right p-4">
<strong>Lifestyle Patterns of People Who Live Simply</strong><br> • Limit material possessions to what is needed and/or cherished.<br> • Engage in meaningful work for 30 hours a week or less, paid or not, with a short commute.<br> • Enjoy quality relationships with friends and family.<br> • Participate in joyful and pleasurable leisure activities.<br> • Have a conscious and comfortable relationship with money.<br> • Connect with their community, although not necessarily via formal organizations.<br> • Practice sustainable consumption.<br> • Incorporate healthy living practices in the areas of exercise, sleep and food.<br> • Focus on their growth and spiritual life.<br> • Regularly spend time in nature.<br> • Live in a beautiful environment.<br> • Live in harmony with their values.<br><br><em>Source: Linda Breen Pierce</em>
</div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a530cfdf-9827-45d5-b694-ae0e5f79f0082019-08-28T16:28:18-04:002019-08-28T16:28:18-04:00The Spiritual Pilgrimage: “That Which You are Seeking is Causing You to Seek”2008-03-01 03:00:00 -0500Anonymous<p>Spiritual pilgrimages, which reached their peak in the Middle Ages, are still a robust fact of life today. Individual journeys to honor the Divine or the mysterious in a meaningful way are made by millions of people every year. Though the largest may be the two million Muslims from 70 countries who travel to Mecca, more than 1,100 sacred sites in 55 countries continue to attract those seeking a transcendent experience.</p><p>The intriguing list includes cathedrals, basilicas, monasteries, mosques, stone circles, giant megaliths, caves, sacred waters, murals, <img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/626642/Spiritual-Pilgrimage-Temple.jpg">frescoes, ruins, temples, shrines, museums, sacred mountains and synagogues, as well as paths walked by religious figures such as Jesus, Buddha, Martin Luther and St. Paul. Dan Brown’s popular book, <em>The Da Vinci Code</em>, has sparked several recent additions.</p><p><a href="http://www.Sacred-Destinations.com">Sacred-Destinations.com</a> is an ecumenical travel guide charting the spiritual heritage of the world. Its richly illustrated articles, extensive photo gallery and maps accompany practical travel information. Happy journeying.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e626b511-41dd-4dd4-a2f8-d342bfb64c532019-08-28T16:33:16-04:002019-08-28T16:33:16-04:00Eco-Travel: Take the High Road: How to make a difference on your trip2007-03-01 20:33:00 -0500Linda Sechrist<p>
<span class="dropcap">W</span>hether we call it green travel, eco-travel or eco tourism, the experience of traveling with a social or environmental conscience offers us limitless opportunities for meaningful life experiences and personal growth. It’s also a growing trend. Recently, the American Hotel & Lodging Association identified 43 million “environmentally minded domestic travelers” who sought significant cultural interchange and new ways to help the planet while traveling.</p>
<p>
The opportunities are as varied as the people who seek them. We can elect to color our travel green via geo-tourism, responsible tourism, sustainable tourism or community-based tourism. We can even choose to take a trip as a traveling philanthropist or goodwill ambassador.</p>
<h3>
Travel on Purpose</h3>
<p>
In <em>The Art of Pilgrimage: The Seeker’s Guide to Making Travel Sacred</em>, author Phil Cousineau reveals the rewards awaiting those who travel “with a sense of purpose.” In his book, more than 100 vignettes from Cousineau’s lifetime of pilgrimage show how simple acts of intention and attention can “transform even a sleepwalking trip into a soulful journey.”</p>
<p>
Cousineau says that physical, emotional and spiritual rewards come when we practice even a few principles of “responsible stewardship.” Conscious travelers get a visceral kick out of patronizing businesses that conserve resources, shun overdevelopment, and apply limits and management techniques designed to sustain natural habitats, heritage sites, local culture and scenic appeal.</p>
<p>
Such an approach goes well beyond nature travel. It seeks to add to the well being of both residents and visitors. Geo-tourism in particular seeks to sustain and enhance a unique “sense of place”—the mix of unspoken character, environment, culture, aesthetics and heritage that distinguish a location.</p>
<p>
A Nigerian folk-saying holds that “The day on which one starts out is not the time to start one’s preparations.” <em>Cognoscenti</em> agree that taking the time to learn about a destination before embarking makes the journey more memorable.</p>
<p>
Being open to unexpected delights on the journey is another way to get the most out of our travels. In the words of 20th century American poet Muriel Rukeyser, “The Universe is made of stories, not atoms.” Rukeyser understands that we often build our liveliest memories from golden nuggets of conversational pleasantries, offbeat remarks and casual exchanges with those we meet on our trips.</p>
<h3>
Expansive Horizons</h3>
<p>
The form of eco-tourism dubbed community-based tourism is the fairly recent brain-child of <a href="http://www.ResponsibleTravel.com">www.ResponsibleTravel.com</a> and Conservation International. These journeys afford travelers meaty opportunities to interact with the community life of remote tribes and villages. Both visitors and locals can benefit from an experience that helps to break down perceived boundaries between peoples, cultures and lifestyles. These community-centric programs also spark and help fund local employment, education, earth-friendly development, and conservation initiatives.</p>
<p>
Conservation International currently works in more than 40 countries, helping indigenous peoples to establish economically viable practices that are less harmful to their natural environment. As an online travel agent, ResponsibleTravel.com offers holidays that are designed to benefit local people and their environment. “The market for more responsible holidays is growing quickly,” observes Justin Francis of ResponsibleTravel.com. “Our business has doubled in each of the past three years.”</p>
<p>
Eco-wise travelers understand that taking trains, buses and bicycles instead of cars and planes can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. Statistics show that air travel alone contributes as much as five percent of total global emissions. Even a typical domestic flight releases 1,700 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) per passenger into the atmosphere. Something as simple as taking public transportation to and from airports, at home and abroad, can help to cut the load.</p>
<p>
Today, more travelers also are purchasing carbon offsets through organizations like Climate Care, which direct offset fees into renewable energy projects aimed to neutralize, or offset, traveler’s current use of polluting fossil fuel. For example, a cross country domestic roundtrip flight from Miami to Los Angeles carries a $15 carbon offset fee. Voluntarily paying this helps the planet and enables us to travel guilt-free.</p>
<p>
Once we know what to look for, we discover many ways to make our travel less hurtful and more helpful.</p>
<h3>
Be Aware</h3>
<p>
If eco-travel appeals to you, it helps to be savvy about potential misuse of the term, and misleading marketing.<br>
“Much of what’s touted as eco, sustainable or responsible travel is no more than spruced up conventional tourism with a public relations spin,” says Claire Hendrie, customer services manager for Green Globe Asia Pacific and Green Globe International. “It helps to read the small print, do your homework, ask questions, and look for certification and approval seals from recognizable organizations such as Green Globe.”</p>
<p>
The trend toward spending travel dollars consciously is catching on in many countries. In its recent report on travel trends in the UK, Responsible www.Travel.com reports that where there is an “ethical alternative,” demand for responsible travel can zoom ahead of conventional avenues by as much as 500 percent. Vacation planners worldwide are waking up to the fact that patronizing hotels and airlines with an environmental agenda is casting a vote for change. Travelers have it in their power to revolutionize the industry by using “green” hotels that implement water- and energy- saving measures and reduce solid waste. Additionally, guests can tell the housekeeping staff that changing towels and sheets daily is unnecessary. Turning off the lights, TV, and air conditioners in a room when exiting also conserves energy, as does leaving behind unopened bottles of amenities, or taking opened bottles home to finish off and recycle.</p>
<p>
When it comes to purchasing vacations, we can effect social change by choosing travel and tour companies that practice the most recent form of ethical travel, known as travelers’ philanthropy. Here, travel businesses pledge a percent of profits and/or goods and services to support local schools, health clinics and orphanages in host countries.</p>
<h3>
Restful Alternatives</h3>
<p>
If, like Dorothy from Kansas, you believe that “there’s no place like home,” you may find that the best vacation is the one spent leisurely around the house, or exploring neighborhood delights. Ignoring the “to do” list and striking out for nearby destinations and local attractions can be both energizing and surprisingly nurturing. Costs are often reasonable, and there’s no re-entry jetlag or recuperating from different time zones before heading back to work.</p>
<p>
Sometimes, a quick getaway for a weekend’s respite can be more refreshing than a vacation far from home. Opting for the low-impact lodging of a green spa, or an area bed and breakfast that adheres to the best practices of green travel, can be elegant, ethical fun.</p>
<p>
Of course, regardless of where or how often we choose to travel, true eco-tourism always begins at home. Before dashing off to any adventure, we can remember to lower the AC/heat and hot water thermostats, unplug appliances, and turn off the icemaker. Upon arriving at our destination, the first rule of responsible travel continues to apply: “Take only pictures and leave only footprints.”</p>
<p>
Along the way we discover the larger picture of our place in the world, and gain respect for those with whom we share it. And we can change our behavior as tourists, so that we leave with new awareness, fond memories, a clear conscience, and appreciation for the words of writer Aldous Huxley, who said, “I wanted to change the world, but I have found that the only thing one can be sure of changing is oneself.”</p>
<h3>
GREEN TRAVEL GUIDE:</h3>
<h4>
<strong>Traveler Services</strong>
</h4>
<p>
<a href="http://www.BetterWorldTravel.com">www.BetterWorldTravel.com</a><br>
Green alternative to AAA. One percent of revenue is donated to environmental cleanup. Hybrid owners get a 20 percent savings.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.Cerespress.com">www.Cerespress.com</a><br>
Publishes Healthy Highways traveler’s guide to eating healthy in any of 1,900 healthy eateries and natural food stores in the U.S. Offers state maps and directions.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.Eco-Resorts.com">www.Eco-Resorts.com</a><br>
Customizes safari itineraries for socially responsible travelers.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.Spaindex.com/Lifestyles/EcoHolisticSpas.htm">www.Spaindex.com/Lifestyles/EcoHolisticSpas.htm</a><br>
Eco-friendly and socially responsible spas offering holistic services.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.EcoTourDirectory.com">www.EcoTourDirectory.com</a><br>
Lists organizations useful in planning eco-holidays.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.EcoTravel.com">www.EcoTravel.com</a><br>
New Internet magazine and community offers insightful information on travel destinations plus education on tourism issues.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.HimalayanHightreks.com">www.HimalayanHightreks.com</a><br>
Cutting edge travel companies team up to support projects in areas they visit.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.FairTourismsa.org.za">www.FairTourismsa.org.za</a><br>
Focuses solely on economic development. Provides a framework for human rights and just economics.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.GapAdventures.com/sustainable_tourism">www.GapAdventures.com/sustainable_tourism</a><br>
Small-group outdoor adventure travel ventures off the beaten track to the heart of a destination. Visitors meet the locals who call a place home.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.GlobalExchange.org">www.GlobalExchange.org</a><br>
<a href="http://www.Oxfam.org.uk">www.Oxfam.org.uk</a><br>
Well-known travel groups offer insightful tours to places like the Australian bush or alternative spring breaks to Brazil.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.GreenEarthTravel.com">www.GreenEarthTravel.com</a><br>
Vegetarian/vegan/eco travel agency.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.GreenGlobe.org">www.GreenGlobe.org</a><br>
Covers sustainable travel and tourism. Worldwide benchmarking and certification for Green Globe destinations, resorts, accommodations, tours and rental cars. Has Green Travel Planner.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.GreenHotels.com">www.GreenHotels.com</a><br>
Directory of properties whose managers institute programs that conserve resources.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.HealthyAdventure.com">www.HealthyAdventure.com</a><br>
Healthy vacations in paradise for individuals interested in a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.Planeta.com">www.Planeta.com</a><br>
Eco-tourism operators and information.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.ResponsibleTravel.com">www.ResponsibleTravel.com</a><br>
Responsible travel, ecotourism, adventure and family holidays more than 200 carefully screened tour companies and hundreds of accommodations.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.SaferTravelDirectory.com">www.SaferTravelDirectory.com</a><br>
Green lodging for the health conscious and chemically sensitive.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.SoliMarTravel.com">www.SoliMarTravel.com</a><br>
Addresses the needs of tourism providers, tourism consumers and local residents.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.SustainableTravelInternational.org">www.SustainableTravelInternational.org</a><br>
Promotes responsible travel and ecotourism, supports sustainable development and helps travelers and travel providers protect the cultures and environments visited.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.TourismConcern.org.uk">www.TourismConcern.org.uk</a><br>
The Ethical Travel Guide: Your Passport to Alternative Holidays Lists 300 places to visit and stay in 60 countries. Handy 10-point Avoid Guilt Trips guide helps travelers make a stand for what they believe in.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.UncommonAdventures.com">www.UncommonAdventures.com</a><br>
Specializes in dive and adventure travel to intriguing and appealing destinations.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.UnTours.com">www.UnTours.com</a><br>
UnTours provides a deeper way of experiencing Europe.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.UsServas.org">www.UsServas.org</a><br>
International cooperative system of family hosts and travelers are helping to build world peace and understanding through opportunities for contact among people of diverse cultures.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.WorldSurface.com">www.WorldSurface.com</a><br>
Information on how to travel with minimal impact. All providers and sponsors here are committed to supporting sustainable tourism.</p>
<h4>
<strong>Environmental Services</strong>
</h4>
<p>
<a href="http://www.ClimateCare.org">www.ClimateCare.org</a><br>
Website calculates carbon emissions and invests in carbon offset projects.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.Co2.org">www.Co2.org</a><br>
Makes carbon offsets simple.</p>
<h4>
<strong>Educational Resources</strong>
</h4>
<p>
<a href="http://www.Americas.org">www.Americas.org</a><br>
Conducts responsible tourism workshops. Offers educational materials for students traveling abroad.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.EcoTourism.org">www.EcoTourism.org</a><br>
This global network of practitioners, institutions and individuals are helping to integrate environmental and socially responsible principles into everyday practice.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.GreenStop.net">www.GreenStop.net</a><br>
Rounds up domestic and international destinations, partners, and best practices information on the why, how and what of green travel.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.GreenTravel.org">www.GreenTravel.org</a><br>
Links people with green travel resources and ideas to minimize their ecological impact and manage social impacts while traveling.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.NationalGeographic.com/travel/sustainable">www.NationalGeographic.com/travel/sustainable</a><br>
Information on GeoTourism and sustainable tourism.</p>
<p>
Rethinking Tourism & EcoTravel<br>
Deborah McLaren, director of Indigenous Tourism Rights International, gives a worldwide overview of the tourism industry and alternative travel in her book.</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.TravelersPhilanthropy.org">www.TravelersPhilanthropy.org</a><br>
An emerging voluntary movement of civic-minded travelers and travel businesses gives financial resources, time and talent to further the well-being of their host communities.</p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a1dd81e2-e278-4879-beea-9dab679869a32019-08-28T16:33:18-04:002019-08-28T16:33:18-04:00Think Twice: Before Buying Wildlife Souvenirs2007-03-01 16:25:00 -0500Anonymous<p>
<span class="dropcap">E</span>very year customs officers seize thousands of dead wildlife souvenirs from returning travelers, many from endangered and threatened species. Disappearing animals, from elephants to marine turtles, are at risk. Purchased from resorts, airports, boutiques and markets that openly sell illegal and questionable animal products, tourists are unaware they’ve done anything wrong.</p>
<p>
Recent investigation by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) in South Africa, a popular holiday destination, spotlights the challenge. Researchers found a still thriving trade in ivory carvings, porcupine quills and shark teeth.</p>
<p>
Alternatively, purchasing handicraft mementoes that both benefit indigenous peoples and save local animals make exotic gifts twice as nice. All the animals send their thanks.</p>
<p>
<br>
<em>Sign a petition on behalf of the animals at </em><span class="link-external"><a href="http://www.ifaw.org/"><em>www.IFAW.org</em></a></span><em>, search “Wildlife Pledge.”</em></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:8c8b9077-eddc-44ba-b1f2-564f2a8468182019-08-28T16:32:55-04:002019-08-28T16:32:55-04:00The Healing Sun: Reduce Your Risk of Cancer with Natural Rays2007-02-01 19:42:00 -0500Anonymous<p>
<span class="dropcap">T</span>aking a daily 10- to 15-minute walk in natural sunlight not only clears our head, relieves stress and increases circulation, it could also cut the risk of breast cancer at least 30 to 40 percent according to epidemiologist Esther John at the Northern California Cancer Center. A host of studies back her up.</p>
<p>
In <em>The Breast Cancer Prevention Diet</em>, Dr. Robert Arnot observes that breast cancer occurs at higher rates in the cloudy north than the sunny south. A 10-year study by Johns Hopkins University Medical School further suggests that exposure to full-spectrum light positively relates to prevention of breast, colon and rectal cancers.</p>
<p>
Research shows that the number of people who die from breast, colon, prostate and ovarian cancers, multiple sclerosis and osteoporosis–all maladies sunlight could benefit–is far greater than the number of deaths from skin cancer. After reviewing 50 years of medical literature on cancer, Dr. Gordon Ainsleigh concluded that “the benefits of regular sun exposure outweigh the risks of skin cancer, accelerated ageing and melanoma.”</p>
<p>
The secret lies in how sunlight stimulates responses in the body that trigger production of vitamin D3, a type of steroid hormone that can dramatically improve immune system function. It also inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Physicians warn that high doses of D3 tend to be toxic, so we need to exercise common sense. But Dr. Richard Hobday, author of <em>The Healing Sun</em> says that modern-day fear of sun exposure and everyday use of sunscreens has done more harm than good.</p>
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<em>Source: </em><span class="link-external"><a href="http://www.newstarget.com/"><em>www.NewsTarget.com</em></a></span></p>
<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a80a6175-b284-4ffe-9854-af00a9dee22a2019-08-28T16:32:59-04:002019-08-28T16:32:59-04:00Fair Trade Chocolate: The Sweetest Treat2007-02-01 16:03:00 -0500S. Alison Chabonais<p>
<span class="dropcap">V</span>alentine’s Day almost qualifies as a national holiday. Love’s in the air and more than $1 billion in candy is flying off U.S. shelves, most of it women’s number one favorite–chocolate. But how much do we know about this sweet we treat ourselves to on a near-daily basis?</p>
<p>
For instance, few may know that cocoa contains nearly twice the disease-fighting antioxidant value of red wine, and three times that of green tea. Chocolate improves blood flow and calms stress. No wonder it makes us feel good!</p>
<p>
Yet there’s a dark side to this seductively rich indulgence. And we’re not talking calories, or the flavor of the bar.<br>
</p>
<h3>
Chocolate Farms</h3>
<p>
Sixty countries supply cocoa beans for the $60 billion annual retail chocolate business. But six, Africa’s Ivory Coast, Ghana, Indonesia, Nigeria, Brazil and Cameroon, account for more than 80 percent of production. And the Ivory Coast, where 43 percent of beans originate, relies on the servitude of more than 200,000 children, all of whom should be in school instead of pressed to labor under dangerous conditions. Making matters worse, impoverished farmers and environmental degradation are common occurrences.</p>
<p>
As with other industries, politics and economics stack against the small farmers responsible for 90 percent of the world’s cocoa crop. Many times illiterate, without a truck, scale or phone of their own, they must depend on middlemen to determine price, weight, and how their crop gets to market. With traders and manufacturers typically claiming 92 to 94 percent of profits, Transfair USA estimates that most farmers earn just 1 cent for every candy bar we buy for 60 cents. Their annual income of $30 to $110 is insufficient to support a family. Pushing to maximize production, they struggle to survive by clearing forest and liberally using pesticides at great personal and planetary cost.</p>
<p>
Thank goodness we’ve a solution at hand for this far-from-sweet situation. We can simply buy only chocolate that carries both “Fair Trade” and “Certified Organic” logos.</p>
<h3>
How Fair Trade Works</h3>
<p>
Since 2000, fair trade groups like TransFair USA have been working directly with cocoa farmers and local chocolate cooperatives, educating communities on sustainable agricultural practices, prohibiting child labor and paying growers a fair-market guaranteed price. They track each unit of product from local producers through importers, manufacturers and distributors.</p>
<p>
For example, the Kuapa Kokoo Cooperative in Ghana owns 33 percent of the Day Chocolate company, which produces Fair Trade Certified Divine Chocolate. These 35,000 farmers now earn at least 80 cents per pound of beans plus a share of retail sales profits. “Where other farmers get about $160 per metric ton of beans, fair-trade farmers selling through cooperatives typically are paid $225 to $300 per ton,” reports J. Ganes Consulting. The Kuapa Kokoo Cooperative has plowed profits back into the local community, supplying potable water, sanitation facilities and a new school.</p>
<div class="sidebar-left">
<strong>Favorite Gourmet Chocolate Brands</strong><br>
Art Bars<br>
<a href="http://IthacaFineChocolates.com">IthacaFineChocolates.com</a><br>
Dagoba Organic Chocolates<br>
<a href="http://DagobaChocolate.com">DagobaChocolate.com</a><br>
Divine Bars<br>
<a href="http://DivineChocolate.com">DivineChocolate.com</a><br>
Ecco Bella<br>
<a href="http://EccoBella.com">EccoBella.com</a><br>
Equal Exchange<br>
<a href="http://EqualExchange.com">EqualExchange.com</a><br>
Green & Black’s<br>
<a href="http://GreenAndBlacks.com">GreenAndBlacks.com</a><br>
Omanhene Cocoa Bean Co.<br>
<a href="http://Omanhene.com">Omanhene.com</a><br>
Rapunzel<br>
<a href="http://Rapunzel.com">Rapunzel.com</a><br>
Shaman Chocolates<br>
<a href="http://ShamanChocolates.com">ShamanChocolates.com</a><br>
<br>
<em>For more, see <a href="http://FairTradeFederation.com">FairTradeFederation.com</a></em>
</div>
<p>
One source estimates that 50 people buying one bar of Fair Trade chocolate a week will help maintain an acre of lush native forest or jungle habitat. Such socially conscious consumers, though representing only one percent of sales, are applying their purchasing power to wake up giants like Nestle, Hershey Foods, Mars, Ghirardelli and Godiva, who are now aware of the need to curb industry abuses. “The bigger companies, such as Starbucks and Proctor & Gamble, feel obligated to make at least a token effort, which we regard as a huge success,” says Rodney North of Equal Exchange, the first firm to sponsor Fair Trade chocolate.</p>
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<img alt="Best fair trade chocolate" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/627108/Best-Gourmet-Fair-Trade-Chocolate.jpg"></p>
<p>
A Fair Trade 70+ percent cocoa product costs about the same as designer chocolates, at $3 to $3.75 a bar. But oh, the rewards. A healthful one-inch square satisfies so completely that a single bar can last a week. That’s because its primary ingredient is cocoa, not refined sugar. Imagine the sales a high school band or charity candy drive could muster by sponsoring such a product.</p>
<p>
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<em>Sources: <span class="link-external"><a href="http://www.coopamerica.org/">www.CoopAmerica.org</a></span>, <span class="link-external"><a href="http://www.grist.org/">www.Grist.org</a></span>, <span class="link-external"><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/">www.USAToday.com</a></span>, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, <span class="link-external"><a href="http://www.vegetariantimes.com/">www.VegetarianTimes.com</a></span>.</em></p>
<div class="body-sidebar-right p-4">
<strong>Test of a Good Chocolate Bar</strong><br>
■ Eat chocolate at room temperature. Don’t refrigerate.<br>
■ Snap in half and watch for a clean break.<br>
■ Inhale the aroma along the break. Fine chocolate smells like cocoa.<br>
■ Taste a small piece at a time. Placed on the tongue, pressed against the roof of the mouth, it should begin to dissolve.<br>
■ Chew and swallow. Enjoy the smooth feel. Good chocolate leaves no wax behind.<br>
■ Appreciate the slightly fruity aftertaste.<br>
■ Repeat to heart’s content.</div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>