January 10, 2024

At age 67, Charli Fulton embarked on an epic journey. Throughout her 2,200-mile hike along the Appalachian Trail, she not only conquered physical challenges but also discovered transformational insights. Her trail name “Sturdy Peasant,” became a powerful catalyst for overcoming adversity, defeating pancreatic cancer, and forging a new, vibrant chapter in her life. The name stuck as she tackled other trails.

In her reflections, Charli will emphasize the value of personal encounters, where the trail became a platform for the exchange of life stories. She will highlight how the hikes instilled in her a profound sense of self-discovery; unearthing strengths she never knew existed. The intimidating challenges of the Appalachian and other trails helped her discover a reservoir of courage laying inside herself, waiting to be tapped.

Charli’s storytelling unveils both physical feats and personal growth. Through her experiences, we learn that we often overlook our own strength and courage amidst daily chaos. Don’t miss this inspiring presentation to start the new year in a positive direction. Charli’s adventures are a narrative of rebirth, renewal, and the unwavering belief that one can start a new chapter at any age.

To learn more about Charli’s journeys, follow her blog posts at Sturdy Peasant’s journals.

Spotlight on Acupuncture

November 8, 2023

The medical industry is gradually embracing acupuncture for pain management. It is now accepted as a complement to standard Western practices. According to a 2017 article in the Annals of Internal Medicine, acupuncture resulted in “lower pain intensity” for both acute and chronic low back pain. Medicare recognized this, and the government website states that “Medicare Part B… covers up to 12 acupuncture visits in 90 days for chronic low back pain.”

But what exactly is acupuncture? How does it work? What conditions can it address?

Elissa Gonda will provide an honest overview of the practice. She’ll explain what happens during a typical treatment, and describe the principles of health therapy. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll leave the session with a newfound appreciation for the topic. As you delve deeper, you’ll discover how this age-old practice is more relevant than ever in today’s fast-paced world.

Elissa’s interest in acupuncture stemmed from her lifelong battle with asthma, allergies, and sinusitis. She and her business partner opened Dane County Family Acupuncture in 2010. With an advanced degree, active advocacy, and over a decade of experience, Elissa is a wealth of knowledge in holistic wellness.

Here is Elissa’s contact information:

 

The Art of Self-Care: A Hands-on Workshop

October 11, 2023

Give yourself a fall tune-up to ignite a brighter, healthier future. Here are a few things you’ll learn:

• Breathing exercises: Explore deep breathing to enhance oxygenation, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity.
• Self-massage: Target key areas to ease muscular discomfort, promote relaxation, and enhance body awareness
• Pressure points: Apply acupressure to specific locations to address a range of physical and emotional issues.

Jo Anne Lindberg, a 30-year veteran of Asian medicine, will be your guide. Working in small groups, you can experience and practice these self-care techniques, or simply observe.  Next, Jo Anne will invite you to take part in a one-month challenge to make these concepts part of your daily life. As a traditional shiatsu practitioner, Jo Anne works with clients to improve the quality of their lives at all ages. She is certified by the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia and a graduate of the Ohashiatsu program.

Feeling Stuck? Listen to a Horse

September 13, 2023

Have you ever felt stuck or uncertain about the next steps in your life? Unable to access transformational growth and healing? Imagine a unique partnership between a horse and a human coach, working together to guide you toward a more fulfilling life journey. Horses, with their majestic presence and gentle nature, might hold the key to unlocking feelings of awe, grounding, peace, and hope within us. Dr. Stacey Bean will introduce you to the Equine Gestalt Coaching Method (EGCM) and explain her coaching services and workshops that are part of the process. As a physician, fitness instructor, and nutrition expert, she boasts ample designations:

• Medical Degree from the University of Vermont, School of Medicine
• Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of California, Berkeley
• Multiple certifications from the Institute of Integrated Nutrition
• Certified EGCM practitioner
• Owner of Indigo Trails, LLC

Dr. Stacey offers a fresh and holistic perspective to coaching the “whole” person. Discover how she can help you achieve a sense of balance and purpose. Join us.

Active Parks, Healthy Cities

August 9, 2023

Fitchburg’s parks department manages roughly 90 areas totaling 830 acres of parkland. This includes 38 parks: five community parks, eight area parks, and 25 neighborhood parks. The city park system also maintains natural plant and wildlife habitat regions, special use spaces, and major trails and paths. These areas encourage physical activities, such as walking, jogging, or cycling. They serve as outdoor hubs, fostering a sense of community and social connection. And they contribute to a healthier environment for us and future generations. Learn more from Scott Endl, Fitchburg’s Director of Parks, Recreation, and Urban Forestry. He’ll discuss:

• the function of his department
• current projects in the works
• city ordinances related to park development
• summer recreation program offerings

How to Nurture Urban Wildlife Habitats

July 12, 2023

 

Your yard is for the birds… and the squirrels… and the rabbits. Yup, wildlife is present everywhere, even in the densest of cities and suburbs. Do you want to preserve biodiversity while reducing property damage? Then you must cooperate with urban animal communities and their ecosystems. Support a diverse range of native species; make conscious choices about landscaping; and favor environmentally friendly practices. David Drake, Professor and UW-Madison Extension Wildlife Specialist, will help you make a difference. His expertise in wildlife and wildlife damage management in human-dominated landscapes.is exceptional.

Learn how to create, enhance, and manage wildlife habitats in ways that are beneficial to both your property and to the overall ecosystem.

Presentation follow-up

During his presentation, Professor Drake provided tips and recommendations for supporting urban wildlife. He directed us to the Urban Wildlife Project website for more information.

DeCoDiNg Hypnosis

June 14, 2023

 

Struggling with self-imposed limitations? Frustrated by obstacles to health and fulfillment? Hypnosis might be the solution. It’s not just a silly stage act; it’s a powerful tool to harness your subconscious. Nobody knows this better than Barry Callen, a certified hypnosis expert who used the power of his mind to lose 60 pounds in two years by kicking a lifetime addiction to Coca-Cola. He has helped others conquer their stage fright, reclaim their creativity, and reduce their perfectionistic worrying. Discover how hypnosis might help you help yourself.