The Holistic Moms Network is holding an Open House for the Essex County Chapter at the Burgdorff Center located at 10 Durand Road in Maplewood on Sunday, October 23 from 3:00p.m. to 5:00p.m. The public is welcome to learn more about the organization, enjoy snacks, goodie bags and raffle prizes.

The Holistic Moms Network is a rapidly growing national non-profit organization connecting moms who are passionate about holistic health and green living.  “Through monthly meetings our local chapters bring parents together in a non-judgmental environment that honors their lifestyle and parenting choices,” says the group’s Executive Director Dr. Nancy Massotto. “For new parents who choose to raise their children holistically, having the support of like-minded parents is critical,” she says. The Holistic Moms Network encourages new moms to trust their instincts, to parent from the heart, and to educate themselves about the pros and cons of all healthcare options.  Through a dynamic e-mail discussion loop, members of the group share life-changing information and advice on a variety of topics including pregnancy, breastfeeding, natural childbirth, positive discipline, alternative medicine, and all aspects of green living. 

The organization, which was founded in New Jersey in 2003, currently has more than 110 chapters across the United States.  “A majority of today’s moms say that pregnancy inspired a shift to green living, and three quarters of Americans seek out some form of alternative medicine,” says Massotto, “so we’re seeing a surge of interest in our organization.” 

Moms, dads, grandparents, partners, and other caregivers are all welcome to join.  The Essex County Chapter meets on the forth Monday of the month in South Orange and welcomes volunteer guest speakers on a variety of holistic lifestyle topics.  For more information, please contact Chapter Co-Leader Elizabeth Ebinger at (571) 239-8553, or via e-mail at EssexHMN@gmail.com.  For general information, please visit the Holistic Moms Network website at www.holisticmoms.org or contact the organization at (877) HOL-MOMS.