Many Hands: New England's Magazine for Holistic Health
Sunday, June 01, 2008
From the editor
AP/harpo productions
If you're not familiar with the photo on the right, it's a picture of magician David Blaine suspended in a tank of water, as he held his breath for a breath-taking 17 minutes, a world record. There was no gimmick involved, no special trick, no sleight-of-hand, just the real thing, performed on the Oprah Winfrey show during a live broadcast as two assistants hovered overhead to pluck him out of the water if necessary. Long before Blaine reached 17 minutes, his body began reacting painfully to the lack of oxygen, yet he continued to float with little expression on his face, bearing what has been described as a Zen-like gaze. Within minutes of coming to the surface and taking in his first few breaths of air, Blaine looked completely unaffected by the experience, as if he'd just gone for a moderate swim. This feat required separating mind from body, and it was remarkable in demonstrating what humans are capable of achieving with some mind over matter. It goes without saying, though, that you really don't want to try this one at home.
It this issue of Many Hands, we'll take a look at how iridology is giving medical practitioners another diagnostic tool. Fitness expert Howard Schneider provides some useful tips on how you can warm up properly before starting your exercise routine. We'll show you how to make sure your pet is eco-friendly, and Ani Tuzman offers her expertise to help you take advantage of the power of writing. And, as always, there's much, much more.
Have a great summer!
From the publisher
I invite your attention to some changes. First, my friend and colleague Alan Lecker will be relinquishing his post as editor of Many Hands. Alan has done a great job. For me, though, it's not so much what he's done but the way he has done it - with a calm grace, attention, care, professionalism and - above all - a deep and abiding desire to bring to readers word of how and where today's health issues touch their lives. I'm sure you agree with me that his tenure with Many Hands has been distinguished.
Working with Alan on this summer issue is our new editor, Nicole Cusano. Nicole will be introducing herself to you more fully in the fall edition. For now, I can say this - when I heard she was interested in taking over, I breathed a sigh of relief. I have known Nicole for eight years, and I have admired her work and her dedication throughout our acquaintanceship. Our expectations will be high for her - all of us who have known Many Hands for its 30 years of life want to see it continue to grow while retaining its very special nature. I want you to know that I am confident in Nicole's ability to meet those high expectations.
I also would like you to know that a western Massachusetts peace activist is looking for fellow activists to help him with a project involving health, arts and world peace. His name is Gerry Tracy. You are free to call him at (413) 536-8163 to find out more, or email him at GETGER@comcast.net As details of the project unfold, I will provide updates and information at www.ManyHands.com. Many Hands has agreed to be a sponsor, and I encourage you to give him a call. Thank you. Enjoy the summer, my friends.
Monday, March 03, 2008
From the editor
Fifty-six years after his death, Paramhansa Yogananda still offers timely advice on spiritual enlightenment and self-improvement through the writings and lectures that have been preserved by his Self-Realization Fellowship. Yogananda was, in fact, one of the key figures involved in bringing Yoga to the West, and he became an able diplomat for this science of the mind and soul. In this edition of Many Hands, we feature an excerpt from a new book, "Spiritual Relationships" (Crystal Clarity Publishers), which is based on his writings, his lectures and notes from his followers. This particular piece focuses on the key to being a good friend to all. We think it will be a source of inspiration for our readers. Once again, we hope there's something for everyone in this edition. We explore a number of topics, including: a strategy for success in achieving your goals; the proposition that God is a verb, rather than a noun; the resurgence of that popular 1950s fad - the hula hoop - as part of a new fitness trend; and some useful advice on keeping your pets in shape. Chris Webb, a holistic health counselor, talks with Terry Walters, the author of a new and interesting book, "Clean Food." One of our writers also explores the question: Who is healthier - men or women? We hope you enjoy this edition of Many Hands, and we look forward to seeing you again this summer.
- ALAN LECKER
From the publisher
Purely in the interest of science mind you, I stopped at Mo's Fudge Factor (gourmet fudge and chocolates) on the Buckland side of the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls. I wondered if the area's reputation for being forward-thinking would tranlate to Mo's carrying vegan chocolate (Sweetie's in Northampton has added the item, and of course, vegan chocolate first appeared in a little shop not much bigger than a phonebooth opposite Cornucopia.
Although Mo's struck out, I spoke with owner and chief fudge artist, as she calls herself, Michelle Olanyk. She informed me that most chocolate ("good chocolate") uses lecithin, not a dairy product, as a vehicle, and so is vegan. Her fudge recipe calls for butter, however.
Of more interest to me was her comment about wheat allergens. "People should be careful. Most hard candy processing involves the use of wheat flour to prevent sticking. Really sensitive folks can be affected by that." I told her I appreciated that, and that I'd pass along the warning. Meanwhile, she's going to experiment with vegan fudge, and though I try to keep sugar to a minimum, I promise to return to her shop in the near future and get a taste of how things are progressing.
I promised attendees of "Starting and Growing Your Holistic Business," co-sponsored with Whole Health Expo, one of our advertisers, that I'd provide a link to a free "how to" on preparing a business plan: www.soc.duke.edu/courses/soc190/bplan.html (We'll be having another of these workshops later this year). Presenters Aaron and Sue Singleton of Way to Balance and Diana Krauth of Elements Hot Tub Spa, Inc., set us on the right track for our inaugural workshop, and I thank them again.
Speaking of Whole Health Expo, their Northampton show is March 8-9. I'll be there with my Many Hands ID, so stop and say hello, if you would. I'd like that very much.
Also, a reminder: I post notes, health tips, upcoming events, and links to holistic health topics nearly daily at www.manyhands.com - and you'll find a useful calendar, online classifieds, and all the archived articles from past issues there as well as a complete directory of area practitioners.
A sweet spring to you all.
- PARIS FINLEY
Monday, December 03, 2007
From the editor
In the last edition of Many Hands, we featured an article that reported on the fallout from pet food contamination and the steps some owners were taking to keep their four-legged friends safe. Now comes word that Andrew Weil, who has done so much to help people lead healthier lives, to launch his own pet food. According to Weil, Pet Promise was developed with a two-part mission: First, it is manufactured without the use of animal byproducts, rendered meat or chicken meals, added growth hormones or antibiotics. Second, the protein is derived from livestock on natural family farms and ranches. "Factory farms are major offenders of the environment today," says Weil. "The amount of residues from antibiotics and hormones that goes into the water tables is significant. By choosing pet foods made with mean and poultry protein sourced from family farms, you are sending a message about these practices, and helping to do something positive for the environment. Pet Promise can be found in stores nationwide, including Whole Foods, Wild Oats and Petco. You can visit the company's Web site to get more information at www.petpromiseinc.com.
And now, to this edition of Many Hands. Our InnerView is with Ellen Weisberg, and she has a remarkable story to tell. A medical researcher, Weisberg is also an author who worked at her hometown radio station before she developed dystonia, a disease similar to Parkinson's that prevented her from conducting any kind of extended conversation. Her search for relief led her to acupuncture, which has helped relieve her symptoms and resume her busy schedule of activities. With the holiday season just beginning, we also feature a gift guide that's replete with ideas, including "vegetarian shoes." Annamaria Hemmingway relates a poignant tale of the lessons she learned from her mother's end-of-life journey. We look at the latest in skin care as well as the emergence of dancing as a popular fitness trend, and much more.
Enjoy the holidays!
- ALAN LECKER
From the publisher
I've discovered that I'm not the only one who really likes a good quotation. As I've visited offices and homes in our area, I often see notes pinned up over computers or on refrigerator doors. "The shortest answer is doing. - George Herbert" hangs over my desk, along with a Sufi saying, "Love the pitcher less and the water more."
Some of them are two-edged. I sometimes take heart from a Native American saying, "If we don't turn around, we just may get where we're going." And sometimes those words dishearten me, as in the context of global warming or the context of the health of our young people in this country today.
Some get paraphrased and appear in many forms: "There are as many paths as there are seekers of the way," is one of these. I find that, also, to be a two-edged quotation. I like the thought for its open, inclusive language. I like thinking that there are many paths to wellness. I enjoy feeling that I'm making my own path. But sometimes, I like a little sign or two that says, "Go this way." Hopefully, Many Hands provides that for you.
Meanwhile, send me your favorite quotation. I'll post it at www.manyhands.com. Email me at paris@manyhands.com. Thank you.
NOTICE! Coming Jan. 9, a presentation for holistic health care professionals, "Tips for Building a Holistic Health Care Business." This will be a dinner-speaker affair. I will be there along with Polly Baumer, my predecessor as publisher. Along, too, will be Jonathon Podolsky of The Whole Health Expo, and other industry professionals. It should be a fun evening. See the notice for the event on Page 2 of this issue of Many Hands.
- PARIS FINLEY
Monday, September 03, 2007
From the editor
Howard Schiffer is a good example of how an unexpected event can forever change your life. Schiffer has been involved in the nutrition industry for years, developing a wide range of products. In 1994, though, he was set on a path that has since taken him around the world. That year, Southern California was rocked by a powerful earthquake, and Schiffer was moved by the images of people in need. He rallied his colleagues in an effort to distribute vitamin supplements to earthquake victims. He then turned his focus to the worldwide problem of childhood disease caused by malnutrition. His organization, Vitamin Angels, has particularly been involved in addressing Vitamin A deficiency, which can cause blindness, and possibly death, in children. Howard Schiffer is the subject of this edition's InnerView, in which he addresses the humanitarian issues facing his organization.
We've taken a look at some fascinating people - some of them local folks - through our InnerView feature. In the last few issues, we've focused on Jan Frazier, the author of "When Fear Falls Away";; singer/songwriter Robin Lane, who is helping victims of abuse recover through song therapy; and Denise Roy, the founder of FamilySpirit, a national organization that offers spiritual and emotional support to families. All InnerViews are archived on our Web site at www.manyhands.com.
If you'd like to recommend someone for an InnerView, we'd love to hear from you. Send your recommendations to editor@manyhands.com.
Among other topics in this edition, we also take a look at a book that offers tips on "instant enlightenment";; we find out how interest in natural pet foods has spiked since contaminated pet food was recalled earlier this year; we learn about the spiritual odyssey of one woman whose shiatsu massage practice opened doors to new worlds; and there's an interesting look at the link between depression and heart disease. Enjoy!
- ALAN LECKER
From the publisher
I need to elbow a little more room in my life for regular exercise. I've been getting some by mowing. Now perhaps you're snickering, but don't. I've been clearing an overgrown field full of thistle, pigweed and goldenrod with a 20-inch rotary mower. I don't push it, because that's too difficult. I tow it behind me, leaning forward as if I were a plow horse. It's hard work, and I'm breathing hard in less than 10 minutes. I've been doing a tank or a tank and a half of mowing at a time. It's a big field, about five acres, and I won't finish this summer unless I put some serious time in on the weekends, but that's OK because exercise is not about finishing, is it?
The trouble for me comes in the winter. I can't mow snow. I've been at a loss, and last winter, I was a bad boy and only exercised intermittently. I need to try to fix that this year. My wife, Linda, has suggested snowshoeing. If you have any suggestions for a total beginner at snowshoeing, send them along to Paris@ManyHands.com.
Yes, snowshoeing. That might work. Outdoors, in the scenic glory of New England, with the snow sparkling and our wintering-over bird friends flitting through the pines - ah, I might even find a way to convince myself that I actually like winter. And, hey, I could pull the cats along behind me in a sled if I really missed the mowing.
- PARIS FINLEY
Friday, June 01, 2007
From the editor
photo by CAROL LOLLIS The Dalai Lama leaves Smith College after his address.
When the Dalai Lama fled Tibet and arrived at the border of India, guards instructed him to identify himself. He replied that he was just a "simple monk." That humility has always been characteristic of this much-revered spiritual leader, and it was evident in his appearance in May at Smith College in Northampton.
He captivated his audience with his eloquent insights and charmed it with his humor. The Pioneer Valley was fortunate to receive a visit from this great spiritual leader. But the Dalai Lama's visit also speaks well about the good will of the Pioneer Valley's residents and their quest for knowledge.
Now, on to this summer's edition of Many Hands....
In this edition, we begin a new feature, EarthTalk, a column produced by the nonprofit Earth Action Network, which also publishes E/The Environmental Magazine. EarthTalk taps into a considerable clearinghouse of information to address readers' questions about environmental issues.
In "Way of the Peaceful Warrior" by Dan Millman, first published in 1980, the story's protagonist receives enlightenment from an unlikely source: the manager of an all-night gas station. In this issue, Jeane-Claude Gerard Koven tells about receiving enlightenment from a tennis pro named Lefty.
Ashleigh Pyecroft continues her fine work highlighting the curative herbs that can be found in the Pioneer Valley. Jenny Ward, who established an organization called Playward, tells us why it's OK to act like a kid. And there's much, much more in this jampacked issue. We hope you enjoy it, and feel free to drop us a line to tell us how we're doing.
- ALAN LECKER
From the publisher
On the Mohawk Trail, that stretch of Route 2 from Greenfield to North Adams, someone's secret work emerges in the spring and summer. Early in May, a few daffodils appear on the roadside in a secluded but sunny slope on the south-facing hill above Shelburne Falls. Soon, another bunch appears a bit further down the road. And then a spray on the other side of the road. Within a week or two, daffodils, narcissus and jonquils line the highway from Greenfield all the way to the entrance to the state forest just past the Zoar River. And the forsythia joins the show, followed by lilacs and azaleas. And on it goes.
It began with the secret planting of those daffodils, though. Then homeowners joined in and added more along their frontage. The bulbs divided over the past few years, and now it's quite a show. This grass roots movement - to make the Trail even more lovely - is fully underway. I predict the highway will be a showplace in a matter of one or two more years. I'd love to know more about this secret gardener. Email me at paris@manyhands.com with your guesses. I might even track down this Johnny Appleseed of bulbs and do an Innerview. Speaking of Innerviews, I hope you enjoy the one you find in these pages. I was so struck by my time with Jan Frazier that I fretted over presenting her capably. I think the Innerview captures her journey, and I hope you enjoy it. Happy summer to you all.
- PARIS FINLEY
Thursday, March 01, 2007
From the publisher
As I sit in the depths of February's cold to pen this note for publication in March, I think of the time capsule, and know that by the time you ''open this'' to read, we'll be talking about spring. The new clock change for Daylight Saving Time happens on March 11 this year, accelerating the feel of the season. I'll be starting seeds soon, and I've already begun perusing the gardeners' catalogs. Change is the natural order of things. (The punster in me is tempted to say ''the natural ardor of things.'') We have another recipe to add to our modest collection (see below). We received a number of compliments about our winter edition, and I thank in particular Lucy Pickett and Alan Lecker, who labored mightily to make that happen. I hope you enjoy this issue as much.
On March 31 is the Celebrate Peace Concert with Snatam Kaur. My wife, Linda, and I will be there and hope you'll join us. You'll find information within these pages - and on the Many Hands Web site at www.manyhands.com, where you'll also find articles from past issues, interviews, tips, recipes and my daily note to you about items that come up between issues - and from time to time free tickets to local events. It's a busy site because this is such an active area for holistic health professionals. Check it out.
- PARIS FINLEY
Weeknight Steam Stir-Fry
From Patricia, a ''busy kitchen designer'' from West Dover:
Put a large sautee pan on the stove with a quarter-inch to half-inch of water to cover the bottom; add a bayleaf if you wish. Cover and turn on high. Add pre-packaged or prepared (or frozen if neccesary) vegetables, in order of cooking times - e.g. whole baby carrots, cauliflower florets, broccoli crowns, etc. Replace cover. Start slicing and adding vegetables that need less cooking time, replacing the lid each time - e.g. pea pods, zuchinni, summer squash, onions, mushrooms, bottled chopped garlic, etc. Then add quick-cook vegetables like spinach or pre-cooked vegetables like spaghetti squash or beans. Replace cover, as before, for a couple of minutes.
By now, most of the water will be gone. Remove cover, stir and turn up heat if neccesary to ''dry'' the mixture a little more. Now you can add whatever you wish for flavoro e.g. olive oil and herbs. If you wish, stir in smaller quantities of pre-cooked meat (chicken breast, turkey, Italian sausage) or pasta; or top with seafood (poached frozen salmon filet, scallops broiled in the toaster oven). Cover to heat again. You'll be sitting down to a healthy dinner within 20 minutes of walking in the door.
From the editor
Robin Lane has been making wonderful music for some time now, but she's also one of those extraordinary individuals who is making a difference in the lives of other people. In this edition, you'll read about her work using music therapy to help heal the victims of abuse. You'll also read about another singer, Snatam Kaur, who is using her voice to spread the message of peace. This edition also offers tips on getting fit for spring, explains how yoga can relieve neck pain, explores the benefits of color therapy, discusses a Reiki model for volunteering, and demonstrates the magical healing powers of dolphins. As always, we welcome suggestions on articles for future editions.
- ALAN LECKER
Friday, December 01, 2006
From the publisher
This edition, I am asking for your help. We are putting together a collection of recipes. The theme will be healthy, immune-boosting, and flavorful recipes from our own community of holistic health practitioners. (Does it have anything to do with the so-called ''recent'' discovery that partially hydrogenated oils are a risk to the body's health? Hello? Where have THOSE people been?) I've been receiving requests for recipes that are 30 minutes or under, start to finish - and that's probably a sign of how busy we all are - but we won't set any limits. I'll publish them on the Many Hands Internet site at www.manyhands.com, and we will be selecting from among them for inclusion in the print edition. You can send your recipe to me at paris@manyhands.com. The more the merrier, uh, tastier.
Visit www.manyhands.com and click on the link to ''Blog'' to find many more recipes. Let's cook something up together.
Here's the first recipe, from Donna Szuba:
^^
''I have a basic recipe for spaghetti squash,'' writes Donna Szuba of Spirit of the Forest Therapeutic Massage. ''Slice in half, scoop out inside and save seeds to roast with cajun spicing at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes. Steam the halves of squash in 1-2 inches of water for 20 minutes, depending on the size of squash used, until you can easily scrape squash into spaghetti like strands. Place strands of squash into bowl and season with a little honey and sprinkle with cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg. Serve with a little whipped cream if desired for a nutritious dessert or even a warm breakfast. Packed with fiber, flavor, and nutrition, it's easy to prepare.'' You can email Donna at urangelspirit@aol.com.
o PARIS FINLEY
From the editor
There's been a long-running debate over the health effects of a mercury-derived ingredient that was used in childhood vaccines for more than 70 years. Many people, particularly the parents of autistic children, are convinced the shots are responsible for the rise in neurological disorders over the last few decades, particularly after the federal government recommended an increase in the number of vaccinations for infants. In this edition of Many Hands, we review a powerful new, independently produced documentary, ''Shoot Em Up,'' which offers disturbing evidence pointing to a link between autism and mercury. We also feature an InnerView with Denise Roy, a remarkable woman who founded the organization FamilySpirit. She offers a unique perspective on the right way to nurture families. We also explore a variety of diverse topics, including the secrets to a successful marriage, a drink that may help you fight the flu, and the benefits of hypnotherapy. And just in time for those holiday dinners, we provide some tips on teaching your dog some decent table manners.
o ALAN LECKER
Friday, September 01, 2006
From the publisher
We need your help. Many of you have, over the years, learned how to achieve and maintain levels of wellness that most people don't imagine are possible. From mental clarity to pain management, from visual acuity to diet, you have tips, practices, and suggestions-and we need to hear from you. Now there's an easy way for you to share your ideas. Simply send an email to me (paris@manyhands.com), and I'll take care of the rest! As always, if you have an idea for an article or artwork or a photograph, send those to our editor, Alan Lecker (alan@manyhands.com).
At the online version of Many Hands found at www.manyhands.com you'll be able to read your tip as well as the many suggestions coming from the rest of the Valley's experts on health. The Web site stays current and the content changes daily.
On a personal health note, my shoulder - which has been troublesome since overdoing things a bit - is now well on the mend. Just in time, too. I owe much of the credit for mending properly to two local health practitioners-massage therapist Patty Gates and physical therapist Diane Fischer-Katz. I also appreciate the assistance of the staff at Cornucopia in Northampton and Green Fields Market in Greenfield.
I also have to say that doing my daily exercises has been a big part of the healing process - it pays to be a good patient. You can read the complete story in the blog section of www.manyhands.com, and you can also find content from prior issues there.
- PARIS FINLEY
From the editor
A few months ago, my beloved Weimaraner Blue died at the old age of 13. As a dog lover, I've been through this process of mourning a few times before, but it never seems to get any easier. By coincidence - if there is such a thing - I happened to speak with Molly Scott of Claremont, an individual and family counselor who specializes in grief issues, including those involving the loss of a pet; she will be writing for Many Hands in future editions. In talking about grief, she shared the observation that many people who develop a strong bond with their pets face a painful struggle in coping with such a loss. In this edition of Many Hands, we feature an article by Diane Pomerance that offers suggestions for dealing with the emotional trauma caused by the death of a pet.This edition also marks the start of a series of article by Ashleigh Pyecroft on the availability of curative herbs in our corner of the world. We also take a look at ways to find your soul mate; the assistance a doula can provide for women who are giving birth; the healing power of Reiki; and a new way of looking at the Ten Commandments. In addition, Allegra Mira provides a thought-provoking Innerview with Dr. Christiane Northrup, who is working to empower women to take control of their health. And in Health Notes, we take a look at the return of Dan Millman's ''Peaceful Warrior,'' as well as the latest in yoga fashion - punk-flavored workout outfits. Hopefully, there's something for everyone, but if you've got ideas about what you'd like to see in Many Hands, drop us a line at editor@manyhands.com.
- ALAN LECKER
Thursday, June 01, 2006
From the editor
Dan Brown's blockbuster book, ''The DaVinci Code,'' has captured the nation's imagination, sparking a debate about the life of Jesus, but also drawing new attention to the concept of the Goddess and the Divine Feminine. In this edition of Many Hands, we're pleased to present a special package focusing on the Goddess. This edition's InnerView is with Amy Sophia Marashinsky, a Shutesbury writer who has written a number of books on the Goddess, and whose latest work is a combined book and card set titled, ''Oracle of the Grail Code.'' As part of this package, we're also featuring an article by Tim Ward, author of the new book, ''Savage Breast,'' in which he explores the concept of the Goddess in ancient civilizations and examines the impact of the Divine Feminine on men. His article is illustrated with ancient depictions of the Goddess that Ward photographed during his travels around the world.
We also look at a number of topics that we hope will have a positive impact on our readers' lives. They include a guide to complementary and alternative health care for pets, one writer's prescription for achieving mental clarity, and a physician's recommendations for personalizing a heart-care treatment program.
As always, we welcome your thoughts and suggestions. You can contact us at editor@manyhands.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
From the publisher
We're fortunate to be living in such a beautiful area. My commute to Northampton from Charlemont takes me down roads that daily reacquaints me with loveliness that others visit only on vacations. That scenic drive fills me with resolve to maintain my health at the optimum, and I'm enjoying my tenure as steward of Many Hands, our area's best resource for finding the right personal path to wellness.
The past few months, I've spent quite a bit of time working with the Many Hands website, www.manyhands.com, and I hope some of you will visit to see what we're doing there. In addition, I've been collecting back issues of Many Hands. My thanks to those who have generously donated copies: Becky Castro, Jean Conway, Susan Giles, Joanne Lutz, Kippy Phelps, and Eileen Ruby.
Editor Alan Lecker and graphic designer Lucy Pickett have put together a fun issue, assisted by Sue Vivier and Peggy Doyle. I hope you enjoy their efforts.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
From the Editor
In this edition of Many Hands, we take a look at a number of interesting topics such as teen dieting, relaxation tips, exercise programs for dogs and the creation of sacred space. The topics are as diverse as our readers and hopefully reflect their interests. Toward that end, readers are encouraged to offer suggestions and ideas for future editions of Many Hands. Readers may call (413) 584-5000, ext. 268, or send e-mail to editor@manyhands.com
- Alan Lecker
From the Publisher
I have had a number of nice surprises since becoming publisher of Many Hands - including getting to test recipes (see Reviews, 28 & 29), getting to meet the people behind Whole Health Expo (I hope to see you at the Expo in Northampton - see Page 3), exchanging e-mail with interesting writers like Margaret Harrell (there will be a review in the Summer edition of Many Hands), shopping at Green Fields Market, where I watched with a feeling of pride many store patrons pick up copies of Many Hands and take them home. I benefited from a stress-relieving massage by Patty-Gates-Firehammer, a gift from the outgoing publisher, Polly Baumer. And I enjoyed viewing the fine paintings by this month's cover artist, Janice Elliott. [Local artists - yes, we are interested in your work for covers!]
All of these were wonderful and I look forward to future adventures. But the most astounding experience was meeting Pierre Zimmerman. I bumped into Pierre at a Northampton Chamber of Commerce function. He told me a bit about his work, and when I mentioned my new role as publisher here, he suggested I might be interested in his health ''journey.'' We arranged to meet, and I interviewed him. I hope you find this edition's InnerView as illuminating as I did. ''Inspiring'' is an over-used expression, but that's what his story is to me.
Lastly, my longtime friend Wally Swist - an internationally renowned poet who lives in Amherst - consented to become a regular contributor. Wally's poetry touches the deepest places in us, and always has a meditative quality. That Wally is ''just down the road'' as neighbor and friend is one of the blessings of living where we do. - Paris Finley
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Talking Points
Dear Readers
Polly Baumer has ended her sixteen-year tenure at the publisher's desk of Many Hands. We wish her great joy in her new endeavors. She will be a part of this unique publication's history forever. Please enjoy the Innerview in this edition - our homage to a wonderful, witty and wise woman.
I hope you like the minor changes Jenny Pelissier and I have brought to Many Hands with this issue. The changes are mostly in appearances. I'll talk about the one exception in a moment. As you peruse your copy, you'll find many familiar faces and friends - and therefore, I hope you'll agree that the soul of Many Hands has not changed at all. Brighter paper, a more magazine-quality cover, and some makeovers on the graphics are about all that will seem different.
One change that you won't see but will definitely notice is the improved distribution. We're using the power of the Daily Hampshire Gazette's circulation ''machine'' to ensure that the copies of Many Hands are where they need to be when they need to be there.
Many have asked about advertising rates. As I wrote to Leslie Brooks, who was one of the first of our advertisers to voice that concern, ''Yes, rates will go up starting with the March (spring) edition. Many Hands has not had an increase in five years.
''Will they go up a lot? No. The purpose of Many Hands is to provide a link between people needing services and the holistic health professionals in our region. To do that, I need to keep in mind that these professionals, in many cases, have chosen lifestyles where remuneration is not measured in dollars (and in some cases where they actively reject the premise). We absolutely must be affordable to all of them or we will not meet our core mission. At the same time, we need the publication to be attractive, inviting, and professional (and well-distributed). My job is to balance all of that.
I hope I'm on the right track, and I'm counting on all of you to make sure I am. Many Hands means not just mine or Jenny's or Polly's but all of ours.
- Paris
Question:
Might you be aware of any holistic vets in the Pioneer Valley? Or have a suggestion as to where I might look for one? Many thanks, Pat Wise
Answer: Family Vet in Haydenville offers both traditional and holistic approaches to treatment.
Clarification
In our last issue we published a short piece about the causes of hypertension. The information in the article came from Dr. Katherine Wilson, a Mayo Clinic-trained internal medicine specialist. You can find more information about hypertension in her recent book ''Brain Maintenance: Preventing Stroke and Delaying Dementia.''