Natural Awakenings - December 2011 Read the December 2011 edition of Natural Awakenings. Do Good, Feel Good: The Helping – Health – Happiness Connection A growing body of research confirms what each of us instinctively knows: Acts of generosity and the empathy, compassion and altruism that prompt them may actually improve our mental and physical health. Read More » Good Vibrations: Sound Healing for the Soul Healing tones, including songs, chants, instruments, singing bowls and natural sounds like rain and ocean waves, can have an immediate, profound effect on our well-being. Read More » Exploring the Last Frontier with Astronaut Edgar Mitchell In 1971, as his Apollo 14 spacecraft sailed back to Earth, Mitchell had a life-changing experience: He understood that the beautiful blue planet to which he was returning was part of a harmonious and whole living system and that we each participate in a universe of consciousness. Read More » The Parent Path: How Children Enrich Our Spiritual Life In caring for children, we move beyond our separate ego, share their infinite capacity for wonder, and connect to a transcendent power. Read More » Fun Party Foods: Easy, Flavorful and Festive These crowd-pleasing appetizers combine classic concepts with tasty twists and are sure to wow guests. Read More » Toyland Tips: Choose Greener, Safer Playthings Not all playthings are created equal. Here’s how to choose greener, safer toys. Read More » Got Faith?: Global Religion Remains Strong Despite Repression Global religion remains strong, despite repression. Read More » Bully Beaters: Cooperation is Key to Social Harmony Students engaged in cooperative learning are more likely to exhibit pro-social behavior that combats bullying. Read More » 5 Intentions for the New Year These daily practices help awaken us to Spirit and encourage us to discover and express our Divine nature. Read More » Interspecies Friendships: Crossing Boundaries for Good Offering lessons for humanity, unlikely animal friends—cats and birds; bears, lions and tigers—demonstrate that when basic needs are met, the instinct to protect or play can trump the urge to grab, neglect or fight. Read More » Meaningful Giving: Tips to Simplify the Season Less stuff can equal more holiday cheer. From home-made or recycled presents to gifts of time and experiences, discover how to bypass “hectic” and reclaim joy. Read More » The Greenest Tree: Go Natural for Christmas This star of seasonal décor need not be an environmental burden if selected with care. Read More » The Upside of Downhill Skiing: Make the Most of Peak Experiences Snow brings the fresh fun of alpine downhill skiing. Here are some tips to get folks back on the slopes and max out mountain moments. Read More » Zinc Fights Colds: Shorten the Duration of this Common Sickness Per a new study, it’s official: Zinc can help reduce the duration and severity of the common cold. Read More » Massage Beats Meds for Back Pain: A Drug-free Approach Structural or relaxation massage bested painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants. Read More » Acupuncture Eases Unexplained Symptoms: A Natural Alternative May Offer Relief When conventional medicine can’t relieve fatigue or pain, acupuncture may help. Read More » Phosphates Not Heart-Healthy: Eliminate These from Your Diet for an Optimal Ticker Found in soft drinks and fast and prepackaged food, phosphates lead to hardening of the arteries. Read More » Universal Truths: Chinese Seek Happiness and Justice Through Open-University-style lectures, the Chinese are opting to explore contemplative courses on happiness and justice. Read More » Nutty Help for Diabetes: A Healthy Replacement for Carbohydrates Daily consumption of nuts can improve diabetes control without weight gain. Read More » The Arts Relieve Holiday Stress: Artful Ways to Reduce Anxiety Painting, dancing, playing a musical instrument or even attending a theater performance or concert may help us feel better, healthier and more upbeat. Read More » In-Print