Natural Awakenings of Grand Traverse Region Michigan - January 2022 by healthylivingmichigan

EE H E A L T H Y L I V I N G R F

HEALTHY

PLANET

2022

HEALTH & WELLNESS TRENDS

January 2022 | Grand Traverse Region | HealthyLivingMichigan.com January 2022

Nature’s Virus Killer

not a sniffle!” she exclaimed. Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night. “It saved me last holidays,” she said. “The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.” Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said. By Doug Cornell “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” cientists have discovered a cold never got going. That was A man with trouble breathing natural way to kill germs fast. September 2012. I use copper in the through his nose at night tried copper Now thousands of people nose every time and I have not had a just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in are using it against viruses and bacteria single cold since then.” years!” he said. in the nose and on “We can’t In a lab test, technicians placed 25 the skin. make product million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. Colds start health claims,” he No viruses were found surviving soon when cold viruses said, “so I can’t after. get in your nose. say cause and Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply effect. But we confirming the research. He placed fast. If you don’t know copper is millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, antimicrobial.” “They started to die literally as soon as they spread and He asked they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. relatives and Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right In hundreds friends to try it. right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. of studies, EPA and They reported unwanted germs gathering there. university researchers have confirmed the same thing, so he patented The handle is curved that viruses and bacteria die almost CopperZap® and put it on the and textured to increase instantly when touched by copper. market. contact. Copper can That’s why ancient Greeks and Soon hundreds of people had kill germs picked up on Egyptians used copper to purify water tried it. The feedback was 99% fingers and hands after and heal wounds. They didn’t know positive if they used the copper you touch things other about microbes, but now we do. within 3 hours after the first sign people have touched. Scientists say the high conductance of unwanted germs, like a tickle The EPA says copper of copper disrupts the electrical balance in the nose or a scratchy throat. still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in Early user Mary Pickrell tarnished. Copper quickly kills seconds. said, “I can’t believe how good CopperZap is made cold viruses. Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA25. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?” Go to www.CopperZap.com or call MRSA and other illnesses by over half, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for toll-free 1-888-411-6114. and saved lives. Christmas and called it “one of the best Buy once, use forever. The strong scientific evidence gave presents ever. This little jewel really Statements are not intended as inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When works.” product health claims and have not been he felt a cold about to start he fashioned Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to a smooth copper probe and rubbed it suffering after crowded flights. Though diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any gently in his nose for 60 seconds. skeptical, she tried copper on travel disease. “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and ADVERTORIAL

Copper can stop a cold before it starts

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RELIEF FOR GENITAL HERPES

Straight from Nature

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January 2022

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from the publishers Health and Wellness Trends in 2022

GRAND TRAVERSE REGION

his year promises an intensification of natural health and wellness trends that have been gathering strength

Publishers John & Trina Voell III

over time. Experts predict that plant-based foods, includ-

Design & Production John & Trina Voell III Editor Martin Miron Theresa Archer Randy Kambic

ing proteins that replicate meat, will grow in acceptance. Telemedicine, intermittent fasting to leverage low-energy stress and improve metabolic health, and coaching are also

A2 Sales & Marketing John & Trina Voell III 734-757-7929

on the rise. With growing acceptance of cannabis for medical and

Detroit Sales & Marketing John & Trina Voell III 734-757-7929 TC Sales & Marketing John & Trina Voell III 734-757-7929

recreational uses, dispensaries are now commonplace where allowed. Cannabidiol (CBD), with proven healing and pain relief properties, is being sold in the form of oils, edibles, sprays, creams and pills, and may soon be available in cocktails and dietary supplements. Be on the lookout for hemp fiber, recently legalized as a farm

CONTACT US P.O. Box 2717, Ann Arbor, MI 48106 734-757-7929 Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com HealthyLivingMichigan.com facebook.com/NaturalAwakeningsAnnArbor Youtube.com/channel/ UCRIOgIjWHjdMaHeTDeKgARg

crop, to expand beyond clothing lines into auto parts, industrial equipment and building materials.

Fitness buffs are going to turn their attention from vanities such as six-pack abs to

inner fitness goals that emphasize overall health, often using wearable technology like rings and smartwatches to monitor their biometrics. Technology will also keep track of water bottle use, and resistance bands to strengthen muscles are being embedded in clothing. Check out “Whole-Person Fitness: Current Trends in Fitness Tools” in our Fit Body

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com

department to learn more.

With major automakers pledging to stop producing gas and diesel cars and govern-

ments increasingly banning them, electric cars (EV) are in everyone’s future. The good news is that technological advances have extended EV’s range, and prices are starting to close the gap with fossil-fueled models. Find out more in our Green Living department offering, “The Electric Vehicle Revolution.”

Dog and cat food is becoming humanized in the U.S. as pet owners demand for their

pets what they want for themselves: high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients that are free of questionable byproducts. In our Natural Pet department, “Pet-Pleasing Food Trends: What Dogs and Cats Will Eat This Year” examines a trend toward custom-tailor-

© 2022 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

ing pet food to an animal’s age, breed and physical condition, and choosing it based on ethical concerns.

It’s time to rethink how we connect, how we do business and how we create mean-

ingful solutions for the issues we face in life. As the veil is lifted, we come to find that the only true security lies within ourselves, not “out there” somewhere. With that perspective comes new opportunities for innovation in personal responsibility and spiritual growth.

As our awareness opens, we must remember that we have access to creating the kind

of life we wish to live, and always had. We wish you all the bliss, magic and hope of a New Year!

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

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Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue you’ll find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

Contents 12 HEALTH IN

THE NEW YEAR

10 Top Wellness Trends for 2022

15 FAITH HEALING

PRODUCES TANGIBLE RESULTS

16 A BETTER

MORNING JOLT

Healthy Coffee Alternatives and Hacks

18 WHOLE-PERSON FITNESS

Current Trends in Wellness Tools

20 ZEN ZONE FOR KIDS Create the Perfect Calm-Down Corner at Home

22 THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE REVOLUTION

24 HIGH TIMES FOR THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY

Emerging Trends with a COVID-19 Caveat

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings, please contact us at 734-757-7929 or email Publisher@HealthyLiving Michigan.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ HealthyLivingMichigan.com. Deadline for editorial: the 12th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit Calendar Events at: HealthyLiving Michigan.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

26 PET-PLEASING FOOD TRENDS

What Dogs and Cats Will Eat This Year

27 WHY WORDS MATTER DEPARTMENTS 6 news briefs 10 health briefs 11 global briefs 16 conscious eating 18 fit body 20 healthy kids 22 green living

24 plant medicine 26 natural pet 27 inspiration 28 calendar 29 classifieds 30 resource guide January 2022

news briefs

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Secure this ad spot! 734-757-7929

Biofuse Now Offers COVID-19 Testing

iofuse COVID -19 Rapid Antigen Testing is now available for $55 (Biofuse.net/covid19-testing). In addition, the Immunity Drip features B12, B-complex, vitamin C, zinc, selenium and glutathione, while the Immunity+ Drip takes it a step further with lysine, doubled glutathione and three times the vitamin C. Both drips are excellent choices for those seeking a quick recovery from illness, a jumpstart to the immune system or for detoxing. Biofuse offers custom IV drips for specific solutions to evolving lifestyles. Their registered nurses are well-versed and trained in understanding customer needs and create the perfect blend of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids. Treatments only take 45 minutes for relief from hangovers, jet lag, cold/flu, migraine relief and improved athletic performance. IV vitamin infusions can also help with beauty, skin, nail and hair health. Traverse City mobile IV therapy brings wellness and recovery to where it is convenient. Location: 540 Garfield Ave., Ste. B, Traverse City (Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo locations coming soon). For more information, call 231-645-9123 or visit Biofuse.net.

Herpes Cream Provides Natural Relief

elia Cahill, founder of Royal John, is pleased to offer natural relief for those that suffer from genital herpes. Royal John’s Genital Herpes Cream is comprised of all-natural ingredients including echinacea, lady slipper, purslane, goldenseal, lemon balm, witch hazel, licorice, tea tree and black cumin. “Thirty-five percent of American adults have genital herpes,” says Cahill. “While there is not currently a cure, it is important to find comfort and relief from symptoms naturally with a product you can trust.” The plant-based, antioxidant-rich formula is designed to soothe sores and temporarily relieve pain and swelling due to genital herpes. This cream-based formula is chemical-free and easy to use for management of bothersome symptoms. Cahill brings more than 28 years of expertise in development and research. She has worked with the National Development and Research Institute as well as many brilliant doctors. “Statistically speaking everyone knows someone who has herpes, but not many people talk about it, a big reason is the stigma it carries. It’s a normal, non-life-threatening part of a lot of people’s lives. My hope is to remove the stigma of genital herpes and give relief to the symptoms until we find a cure,” says Cahill. For more information or to order, visit RoyalJohn.com or email info@RoyalJohn.com. Also available on Amazon. See ad, page 3.

Tell ’em you found them in Natural Awakenings! :) 6

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Relieve Pain with Medical Massage

reat Lakes Clinical Massage, a member of the American Medical Massage Association, now offers medical massage, with three treatment rooms fully equipped to facilitate soothing healing. Owner Christine Watts, BS, CMT, MMT-P, M-MMT, HHP, states, “Medical massage therapy is a system of massage that employs various manual manipulations to specific areas of patient pain and discomfort. This system follows a medical massage protocol that includes assessing joint mobility and range of motion, taking soft tissue findings and applying a soft-hand technique to the treatment areas.” It may also employ different forms of heat, cold and water therapy, as well as electrotherapy, light therapy and medicated oils. The goals of medical massage therapy include decreasing patient pain/discomfort; decreasing soft tissue inflammation; normalizing soft/connective tissue; and increasing range of motion in order to reduce muscle spasms; reduce stress; speed muscle recovery; encourage the body’s natural healing response; and stimulate the immune system. All of their certified massage therapists are graduates of the Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts & Sciences. Location: 723A Duell Rd., Traverse City. For appointments and more information, call 231-409-7960 or visit GreatLakesClinicalMassage.com.

Massage

Certified Organic Biodynamic Tea

ight of Day Organics believes that tea is just the perfect beverage for today’s busy world. It is subtle, healthy and sophisticated, and it reminds us that the world can wait until the cup is finished. Their Certified Organic and Demeter Biodynamic white, green and oolong teas and tisanes (herbal teas that are naturally caffeine-free), are raised to the highest standard for commercially grown food. They hand-harvest and low-temperature-dry botanicals in a licensed commercial farm kitchen, and package teas weekly with great care. The private recipe teas are processed in small batches to promote consistency, maximum freshness and optimal nutritive benefit. The land is 100 percent Certified Organic, with audits performed each year to verify compliance. The company honors those involved in bringing this extremely labor-intensive crop from the field to cup by paying everyone a proper living wage and encouraging the spiritual sacredness of the family unit and community with time off from work to recharge and to play. Location: 3502 E. Traverse Hwy., Traverse City. For more information, call 231-228-7234, email Orders@LightOfDayOrganics.com or visit LightOfDayOrganics.com.

Urban Oasis Salt Spa

Facials

Gift Certificates

Eyelash Ext

231-938-6020

Salt Room January 2022

news briefs

Men Have Varicose Veins, Too

t Northern Michigan Vein Specialists, with offices in Traverse City and Cadillac, Dr. Brian Heeringa and his team of dedicated and experienced physicians can diagnose and treat a number of vein conditions and disorders from varicose veins to peripheral venous Before and after treatment disease to venous ulcers. After treating patients locally since 2008, he decided to dedicate his care exclusively to the treatment of venous disorders in 2016. He states, “Men often don’t seek treatment for bulging veins in their feet or legs, but that doesn’t mean it’s not an issue. Nearly 50 percent of men suffer from varicose veins, and the symptoms can be just as impactful as with women. Men should be just as vigilant when it comes to taking care of their circulatory systems. There are numerous signs of vascular disease that you should be aware of to avoid future complications. Various arterial conditions and diseases can affect the vascular system, resulting in vascular disease, which occurs when blood vessels become smaller and slow down or stop the normal flow of blood through the body.” Main office: 880 Munson Ave., Ste. A, Traverse City; satellite location, 440 Cobb St., Cadillac. For appointments, a free screening or more information, call 231-946-1488 or visit MiVeins.com.

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Once Upon a Child Gives Used Items a Second Life

nce Upon A Child buys and sells gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear for up to 70 percent off regular retail prices, paying cash and providing a convenient way to recycle the items children have outgrown. All clothing must be freshly laundered and laid flat in a box or bin—no bags, hangers, garage sale stickers or safety pins. Now is a good time to stock up on winter clothing like boots, jackets and sweaters. Their rewards program earns points and access to exclusive discounts, special promotions, store events and more. Franchise owner Jen O’Brien says, “We buy based on condition, demand, style and brand, passing on anything with staining, signs of wear, missing tags, or items older than five years. We then enter the items we wish to purchase from you into our computer system, which generates a no-obligation quote, which is paid in cash! You are not required to stay in the store while we sort through your items, and we can send you a text when they are complete.” Location: 2751 N. U.S. 31 S., Traverse City. For more information, call 231-642-5570 or visit OnceUponAChildTraverseCity.com.

Virtual Trimdown Weight Challenge

he eighth annual TC Trimdown, a community challenge to commit to a healthier lifestyle, sponsored by the Traverse City Record-Eagle, begins with a weigh-in from 9 a.m., January 4 to 8 p.m., January 5, virtually, and ends with a weigh-out from 9 a.m., March 22 to 8 p.m., March 23. Team captains will log in every Friday by noon to report the team’s total weekly weight. $1,800 in gift certificates will be awarded to the winning teams and a portion of all proceeds will be donated to the Northwest MI Food Coalition and the NMC Student Food Pantry. First place male, female and co-ed teams of four win $100 gift certificates for each member. First place male, female and co-ed teams of two win $100 gift certificates for each member.

Gain more awareness, knowledge and support during your pregnancy. A Birth Doula will support you mentally, physically and emotionally, during your preganancy, labor, birth and postpartum.

What is a Birth Doula?

A birth doula encourages a birthing mom and her support partner to explore their birth options, develop a birth plan and establish goals to help achieve their birth wishes. "Hi, I am Jeneé Claridge. I am a proud mama to seven amazing children. And just as each child is different, so were each of my birthing experiences. Each of these experiences ultimately inspired me to begin a journey to bring more awareness, knowledge, and support to the birthing community. My passion for health and wellness and joy of being a birth doula will help you carry your birth story with you forever!"

Contact me for your FREE consultation today! 231-300-2229 JeneeClaridge@gmail.com Hospital Births & Home Births

The cost to enter is $5 per person. Register online at TCTrim down.com by Jan. 3.

Try The Dish Café for Takeout Goodness

he giant salads at The Dish Cafe are all made to order with the freshest, best ingredients. The menu also includes sandwiches, quesadillas, homemade soups, smoothies and cocktails in a family-friendly atmosphere with caring customer service. A new drink menu offers local brews, wine and cocktails. Open since 2007, husband and wife owners Patty Hickman and Randy Waclawski say, “Ordering takeout can have a bad reputation, but it also can be a great opportunity to eat more healthy foods that you just don’t have the time or the motivation to cook for yourself. We have so many meal options for you. Order from our menu online, by phone or in person. Follow us on social media for updates on our homeschool lunchbox schedule and our heat-at-home dinner specials.”

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†

Location: 108 S. Union, Traverse City. To order, call 231-932-2233, email TheDishCafe@gmail.com or visit TheDishCafeTC.com. January 2022

health briefs

Try Mango Leaf and Lychee Fruit for Weight Loss EDGE by Amare, with three, never-before-combined ingredients—mango leaf, lychee fruit and palm fruit—delivers both physical and mental energy, instantly improving mood, motivation, metabolism and brain power, as well as progressive anti-aging benefits and loss of belly fat over time. According to health experts, mango leaf extract helps in managing diabetes and obesity. It was found that mango leaf extract helps reduce fat deposits and adiponectin protein helps in fat reduction in the body. High in water content and low in calories, lychee fruit is a good source of dietary fiber that is excellent for weight loss. Lychee fruit helps decrease fatigue and improve endurance, lessen skin wrinkles and brown spots, while reducing belly fat over time. Natural Awakenings readers save $10 off the first order with code 68754. Kellie Ziehm is an Amare Global wellness partner. To order, call 734-344-2339 or visit Amare MentalWellness.com. See ad page 18.

Healing Trauma and Boosting Immunity Through Connection

Stress from unresolved pain (trauma) creates illness. Childhood trauma, ancestral trauma and adult experiences all have an influence on whether our stress hormones (cortisol) turn on the genes for illness. The Adverse Childhood Events Study found that survivors of childhood trauma are up to 5,000 percent more likely to attempt suicide, have eating disorders or become IV drug users. Many of us are experiencing some level of trauma right now, overwhelmed by social injustice and personal suffering. Research has shown that unhealthy self-behaviors and addictions to food, TV, work, people-pleasing and drugs directly 10

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correlate to our level of connection. Through connection, people find an inner resiliency not to shut down, turn a blind eye and ultimately feel disempowered to create change in their lives or community. Cultivating connection to nature, each other and the Earth empowers people’s actions and fosters happiness. The United States Library of Medicine found the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors of severe COVID-19 infections in 13 studies. When we are exposed to nature, we heal emotionally and feel healthier. Nature is a tonic for physical well-being. It reduces blood pressure, stabilizes heart rate and decreases the production of stress hormones. One study suggests that a nature view helps patients tolerate more pain, overcome adverse effects and have shorter stays at the hospital. Nature has a magical impact on our health; it reduces inflammation and prevents many diseases by boosting immunity.

Mother Bear Sanctuary will hold a Nature and Horse Retreat on Jan. 29. For more info, call 734-796-6690 or visit MotherBearSanctuary.com.

Knowledge is Power There are three main ways of delivering cannabis to the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—smoking, ingesting and topical application. Knowledge is key to understanding how the science works while accepting that each individual has a system within their bodies that interacts differently based on the variety of factors that influence the overall result. The ECS has receptors throughout the body, analogous to the nervous system. These receptors respond to different cannabinoids and the way they are delivered in what dosage. For example, a CBD topical or edible could help with arthritis in the right hand but maybe not the left. Or an edible could help hand pain, but not back pain. It comes down to what the cannabinoid is (THC or CBD) and how it is delivered (topical, smoking or ingesting) and the dosing (how many milligrams each receptor needs may vary, based on location, etc.) Taking too much can actually cancel out the benefits and also is not cost-effective for the consumer. Also, diet and exercise play an important role with how the cannabinoids work with the whole system. The effects of an edible could be magnified if taken on an empty stomach or depending on how much caffeine a person has consumed. Kelly Young is the founder of My TCBD and Torch Cannabis Co. For more information, visit mytcbd.com. See ad page 22.

Bad Actors

global briefs

Never Forget

Tuskless Elephants Adapting to Poaching Scourge Approximately 90 percent of the elephants in the present-day Gorongosa National Park, called one of the “last wild places” by National Geographic, were poached for ivory to finance the civil war in Mozambique from 1977 to 1992. Before the conflict, less than one-fifth of females were born without tusks. Now the number is closer to 50 percent. A study published in Science Friday reveals “smoking-gun evidence for genetic changes,” according to University of Victoria (Canada) conservation scientist Chris Darimont. He believes the study helps us understand how humans can have a major influence on evolution. The same phenomenon has also been observed in Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya after periods of intense poaching. Although female and male elephants can be born with tusks, tusklessness occurs at around 2 percent in a well-protected population. Study co-author and Princeton evolutionary biologist Robert Pringle thinks the changes are reversible as the population recovers, saying, “There’s such a blizzard of depressing news about biodiversity and humans in the environment, and I think it’s important to emphasize that there are some bright spots in that picture.”

Regulation Needed Plastic is the New Coal

A new report from the advocacy group Beyond Plastics has found that emissions from the plastic industry may be greater than those from coal-fired power plants by 2029. Founder Judith Enck, a former U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regional administrator, says, “Plastic is intimately connected to the climate crisis. Plastic is the new coal.” The report details ways plastic contributes to global warming, beginning with its man-

Poachers Upsetting Ecological Balance In a paper published in Biological Conservation, researchers from the University of Adelaide and an international team of experts have concluded that illegal global wildlife trade impacts species, ecosystems and society in unsustainable ways. Co-author Dr. Oliver Stringham states, “The trade in wild vertebrates alone is estimated to involve a quarter of terrestrial species, while the trade in ocean life, invertebrates, plants and fungi remains considerably overlooked and poorly documented. As a threat to targeted species, the trade represents one of the five major drivers of biodiversity loss and extinction at global scale.” The incidental effects of wildlife harvesting include disrupted interactions between species and ecosystem structure, altering species composition, functioning and services such as seed dispersal, pollination and carbon storage. Other secondary effects are decreases in eco-tourism and increases in pandemics that originate in wildlife. Co-author and Ph.D. candidate Adam Toomes notes, “A large diversity of species are not protected by international regulation and are traded without any formal documentation process, making it incredibly difficult to evaluate the associated costs and benefits.” Tools available to curb the trade include bans, quotas, protected areas, certification, captive breeding and propagation, education and awareness.

ufacture as petroleum products. Some of the issues are related to fracking, pipelines, toxic chemical byproducts, carcinogenic smoke, atmospheric hydrofluorocarbons and waste disposal on land and sea. The Beyond Plastics report estimates that U.S. production of plastic in 2020 caused about 210 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, or the equivalent of 116 medium-sized, coal-fired power plants. Aarthi Ananthanarayanan, senior fellow at the Ocean Conservancy Plastics Initiative, says the report highlights the need for policymakers to better regulate petrochemical producers, saying, “We have to start considering plastics as part of the fossil fuel industry.” January 2022

Health in the New Year 10 Top Wellness Trends for 2022 by Sandra Yeyati

very new year marks the convergence of endings and beginnings— an opportunity to assess where we’ve been and anticipate where we’re going. As this dynamic relates to our health, this year promises an intensification in the development and adoption of several trends that have been years in the making.

Plant-Based Foods Take Center Stage

The consensus among researchers is that filling our plates with colorful vegetables 12

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and fruits improves health and reduces our risk of developing a number of chronic degenerative diseases. “This approach, along with eating less meat and avoiding sugar, is wonderful to control blood sugar, lower uric acid and nurture your microbiome, which is fundamentally important to reduce inflammation, increase your body’s production of antioxidants and vitamins and help maintain the integrity of the gut lining so that you don’t get leaky gut and, therefore, inflammation,” says board-certified neurologist David Perlmutter, author

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of Grain Brain and four other New York Times bestsellers. Awareness of the devastating effects of industrialized meat production is also accelerating. “Avoiding animal products is probably the first and most important ethical choice one can make,” says Princeton University bioethics professor Peter Singer, author of the seminal Animal Liberation. “That’s going to dramatically lower your carbon footprint. You will no longer be complicit in the suffering of tens of billions of factory-farmed animals, and you won’t

be contributing to the increasing risks of viruses being bred in factory farms.” According to market analysis firm CB Insights, “As COVID-19 spread across the globe, shifting consumer behavior and virus outbreaks in factories has dealt major blows to the meat supply chain, with the beef industry alone facing an estimated $13.6 billion in losses.” Several U.S. meat processing plants were forced to close their doors. In response, a growing inventory of plant-based alternative proteins is emerging, offering new products that seek to mimic the experience of eating a juicy hamburger (Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods) or crispy chicken nugget (Simulate). Banza makes high-protein pasta from chickpeas. Retail sales of plant-based meals in the U.S. have grown by 25.5 percent over the past two years, and other manufacturers joining the field are Plantible Foods, Rebellyous Foods, Livekindly and InnovoPro. A recent survey found that 36 percent of consumers intend to increase their consumption of alternative protein sources in the near future. Perlmutter cautions, “Just because they’re plant-based doesn’t give them full sanction. They may contain unfermented soy, which may not be non-GMO or organic, and per an article in the New York Times, their carbon footprint may be a lot higher in production of these products than we have been led to believe. Do a little research on these manufactured foods and go for plantbased options that aren’t processed. Shop the periphery of the grocery store.”

Telemedicine Will Continue After the Pandemic

According to management consultants McKinsey and Company, when COVID-19 began, the level of telemedicine increased in America 78-fold, peaking in April 2020. Although it has been declining since then, the use of telemedicine is still at a 38-fold increase compared to pre-pandemic times. “While it has leveled off, we are going to see persisting use of telemedicine in situations that involve basic communication with a patient,” says Perlmutter, citing compelling attributes such as cost savings, convenience and a lower carbon footprint because people don’t have to commute to a doctor’s office.

Wearable Devices and Home Testing Empower Patients

Perlmutter also anticipates an amplification of the use of wearable devices and home testing to provide biometric data that informs people about their health status and inspires them to modify lifestyle choices. The Oura Ring records the time it takes to get to sleep, how many times the wearer awakens during the night and how much time they spend in REM and deep sleep. This information enables people to modify day-to-day activities to improve the quality and quantity of sleep.

locked in a glass case and that it would determine everything about us. Nowadays, we know that the expression of more than 70 percent of our DNA that codes for health and longevity is under our control and influenced by our lifestyle choices. The food we eat, whether or not we slept well last night, the stress in our lives, whether or not we spent time in nature—all of these things, moment-to-moment, change our gene expression. Holy Toledo! We now know that certain lifestyle choices are good for you because they favorably change gene expression. They teach it in med school now. It’s a breathtaking reality.”

Harnessing the Power of

Low-Level Stress “Our evolving underhackers and high-performance junkies standing of epigenetics— Life are looking to leverage something called how we can change our hormesis, which involves introducing low-level stress to the body for a positive gene expression—is bring- outcome, so that when the body repairs ing more people on board itself from that condition, it doesn’t just repair back to the previous level, but to a to the idea that our life- new one with an advantage. This includes exposing the body to a hot sauna or cold style choices matter” Apple Watch aficionados are increasingly relying on the device’s biofeedback features, including its newest metric, blood oxygenation, while diabetics and non-diabetics alike employ continuous glucose monitoring systems to pinpoint how lifestyle choices like food, exercise and sleep affect blood sugar levels. “That is not only trending now, but will increase quite dramatically as consumers push to learn more about themselves,” Perlmutter predicts. “No longer is this information going to be siloed in the doctor’s office. People are becoming more and more empowered to learn this data about themselves and act on it.”

Learning to Improve Genetic Expression

“Our evolving understanding of epigenetics—how we can change our gene expression—is bringing more people on board to the idea that our lifestyle choices matter,” Perlmutter says. “When I went to medical school, we thought our DNA was

exposure through cryotherapy, as well as intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating. “People are starting to see how good things happen when we engage in things that push us in places that are perhaps a little bit uncomfortable, activating mechanisms that help with metabolic health, immunity, cognitive function and even the growth of new brain cells,” Perlmutter explains.

Mental Health Destigmatized

When U.S. gymnast Simone Biles dropped out of the 2021 Summer Olympic Games citing mental health challenges, she created an opening for other people to speak up. If a world champion could reveal her vulnerability on the global stage when the stakes were so high, certainly so could they. Her compelling story is emblematic of an emerging trend: Mental health is gradually becoming destigmatized. “It’s becoming acceptable to talk about our feelings and ask for help, and this trend is shattering unhealthy cultural myths, like the erroneous assumption that if we talk about our emotions we’re going to fall into a pit of despair and sadness,” says Licensed IntegraJanuary 2022

tive Psychotherapist Leslie Davenport, the author of Emotional Resiliency in the Era of Climate Change. “There’s a boldness among younger generations that are challenging the status quo and demanding to be accepted as they are. Tucking away anything that might not be socially acceptable is a part of the past. Kids want their families and adults to accept and love them exactly as they are.” On Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, #itsoknottobeok is a popular hashtag. Mental health surveys show that eco-anxiety in particular is prevalent among the young. Late last year, scien-

seen coaching become more common as another option in which people don’t have to examine their past and can instead look forward. A coach can help them make sense of their life, set goals and hold them accountable.”

tists at the University of Bath, in England, interviewed 10,000 youth between the ages of 16 and 25 across 10 continents. In the U.S., 68 percent said that the future was frightening. Almost half admitted that they had distressing feelings related to climate change on a daily basis, 42 percent believed that the things they valued most would be destroyed and 35 percent feared that their family security would be threatened.

fulness has been emerging for a while, but at this point, it’s a household word,” Davenport says. “People are talking about mindful eating or mindful conversations. Core concepts like being present in the moment or taking in the other person in an empathetic way are rippling out into so many aspects of life.”

A Surge in Coaching

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Mindfulness Becomes Ubiquitous

In a few decades, mindfulness practices have catapulted from Buddhist monasteries to corporate boardrooms and have become a billion-dollar industry in the U.S. with an 11 percent annual growth rate. “Mind-

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short phone calls, video chats or text exchanges with a therapist for a low monthly fee. Notable therapy apps include BetterHelp.com, OnlineTherapy.com, BrightSide. com and Calmerry.com. For meditation, Calm.com, InsightTimer.com and Head Space.com are dominating the field.

Virtual Experiences Are Here to Stay

Many people that were devastated by isolation and loneliness during the pandemic sought social engagement via streaming and app-enabled webinars, exercise

routines or art classes. Suddenly, virtual conferences attracted participants from all over the world. Davenport relishes the fact that she was able to take tap dancing classes from a renowned New York City teacher, even though she lives in Washington State. “In a surprising silver lining, we’ve come to appreciate the convenience of these virtual experiences, which we likely wouldn’t have attended in person before the pandemic.” Sandra Yeyati is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

Faith Healing Produces Tangible Results by Julie Chai

cience tells us that the brain can produce spontaneous healing on its own—”mind over matter”. How we perceive the mystery we call God is not just a mental construct. This perception is translated as chemicals in our brain that tell us if we are safe or not. Gail Ironson, M.D., Ph.D., at the University of Miami, conducted one of the first studies to correlate spiritual beliefs with immune response while working with AIDS patients. She assessed the concentration of helper T cells (CD4), which is one way to measure the progression of AIDS. When the level of these cells drops, we are less likely to be able to fend off opportunistic infections such as pneumonia. One important predictor of how well the patients did was the difference between those that believed in a punishing God and those that believed in a benevolent God. According to Dawson Church, in his book The Genie in Your Genes: Epigenetic Medicine and the Biology of Intention, Ironson observes, “People who view God as a judgmental God have a CD4 cell decline more than twice the rate of those who don’t see God as judgmental, and their viral load increases more than three times faster.”

In Love, Medicine & Miracles, Bernie Segal, M.D., writes, “If I told patients to raise their blood levels of immune globulins or killer T cells, no one would know how. But if I can teach them to love themselves and others fully, the same change happens automatically. The truth is: Love heals.”

Love is an energy that accepts and allows us to become the very best, most creative, talented and joyful version of ourselves. Allowing for a loving, benevolent God may be one of the greatest changes we can make to our own well-being. Our mind and body do not differentiate between what we actually experience and what we believe to be true. The trauma of living with a malevolent god in a malevolent universe where we are not feeling safe, loved and nurtured, will lead to early aging, lowered immune response, more likelihood of disease and premature death. When we feel unsafe, we are in survival mode. We perceive lack

and our minds are closed to the wondrous possibilities of an infinite universe. Love is a powerful, healing emotion. It tells our genes that we are safe and the focus can be, not on fighting or fleeing, but on building and repairing our damaged cells. Love allows our minds to expand, learn and grow. Love is an energy that accepts and allows us to become the very best, most creative, talented and joyful version of ourselves. The safer and more loved and nurtured we feel, the more we are able to love and nurture others, even those different from us. One of the best ways we can heal our lives is to heal our perception, and therefore our experience, of God. No matter what our system of faith, be it Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, Muslim, Islam, Hindu, Bahai or Earth-based, how we understand the source of life will have a great influence on how safe we feel in the universe and how healthy we are in mind, body and spirit. Rev. Julie Chai offers Inner Listening. For more information, call 231-922-9699 or visit JulieChai.com and InnerListening.me. See ad page 21. January 2022

conscious eating

A Better Morning Jolt

Healthy Coffee Alternatives and Hacks by April Thompson

ost Americans enjoy a daily dose of coffee, and an increasing body of research indicates it’s not a bad habit to have. Meanwhile, a growing number of people are adapting their morning drink rituals to incorporate ingredients ranging from matcha to mushrooms in search of additional health benefits. “After many years of research, we have concluded that coffee can be a fan-

tastic additive to the diet. Coffee consumption is associated with a decrease in all-cause mortality, risk of cardiovascular death and stroke,” says Claudia Hleap, a registered dietician nutritionist in Philadelphia. Regular coffee consumption is also correlated with a decreased risk of Type 2 diabetes, potentially due to its naturally containing polyphenols, which

are plant compounds with protective antioxidant properties. The caffeine in coffee, as well as in tea and cocoa, can also boost short-term metabolism and brain function. As with most things in life, moderation is key; overconsumption of coffee can result in insomnia, irritability, gastrointestinal issues and other short-lived side effects. “Caffeine intake may negatively impact

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sleep duration and quality, which is essential for optimal health,” says Hleap. “Coffee can also serve as a vessel for added sugars and unhealthy fats in the diet if you are adding sweeteners and artificial creamers.” Many java drinkers today are experimenting with healthy alternatives and add-ons to shake up their routine morning pick-me-up. Chicory-based drinks, made from roasted ground chicory root, are a favorite for Lauren O’Connor, a Los Angeles registered dietitian nutritionist and author of Healthy Cooking for One. “Chicory is caffeine-free, acid-free and a gut-friendly alternative to coffee,” she says. “It also has a robust, roasted taste that can satisfy those who desire more than an herbal tea. Date ‘coffee’, made from date seed, also has a deep, rich flavor.” Some chicory tea blends also incorporate roasted dandelion root, which has been used by herbalists for centuries to enhance the body’s detoxifying functions, particularly of the liver. Golden milk, a traditional Indian beverage associated with Ayurvedic medicine, is another flavorful

matcha is known to improve brain health, which shows itself through improved memory, attention and reaction time,” notes Best.

A Better Bean

Rather than swap out coffee altogether, some java lovers are bettering their beloved beans with healthy add-ons such as powdered mushrooms, ghee and spices. “A healthy addition to coffee can include coconut oil, collagen or butter. These can add some fat and protein content, which will provide more energy while also jumpstarting your metabolism at the beginning of the day,” says holistic health coach Virginia Gruhler. Ghee, a clarified butter that originated in ancient India, has been touted as a “keto-friendly” way to help neutralize the acidity of coffee while adding healthy fats and nutrients. Spices like cinnamon and cardamom have been added to coffee and black tea for centuries in the Middle East and Asia to enhance both flavor and health. Cinnamon, for example, may help lower blood sugar, in

Your Brain

Spices like cinnamon and cardamom have been added to coffee and black tea for centuries in the Middle East and Asia to enhance both flavor and health. alternative with numerous health benefits. Recipes vary, but golden milk is typically prepared by heating milk or a plant-based milk alternative along with turmeric, black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, honey, vanilla and/or cardamom. “These warming spices go above a simple caffeine replacement to provide powerful anti-inflammatory benefits,” says Trista Best, a registered dietitian in Dalton, Georgia. Best also recommends matcha, a traditional Japanese drink made from powdered, young, green tea leaves whisked in water as a coffee alternative with less caffeine and other added benefits. Because the tea leaves are essentially consumed in powder form rather than just steeped in water, matcha contains more catechins, an important antioxidant, than a typical preparation of green tea. “The L-theanine, an amino acid, in

addition to having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Mushroom coffee is another popular “coffee-plus” beverage which combines the flavor and energy boost of java with the benefits of medicinal fungi like turkey tail, lion’s mane and chaga, boosting the immune system and potentially warding off serious health conditions like dementia and cancer. Because caffeine can stay in the bloodstream for up to 10 hours, staying clear of all caffeinated drinks in the later hours of the day will help ensure a better night’s sleep. When a mid-afternoon slump hits, a brisk walk followed by a cup of a flavorful herbal tea like Rooibos or lemongrass can wake up the body and the brain naturally. Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

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Whole-Person Fitness

Current Trends in Wellness Tools by Maya Whitman

nsiders agree that the idea of fitness is changing, and this means an exciting wave of trackers and apps that go beyond achieving the ultimate six-pack abs. “So many of us want a nice exterior, but now more than ever, we realize how important it is that the interior match that exterior,” says Dominic Kennedy, a Los Angeles trainer and founder of the Dominic Effect, an app that provides fitness workouts, customized meal plans and mind-body tools like meditation, yoga and affirmations. The industry of wearable technology has been expanding since the advent of the FitBit Tracker in 2014, and the trend is not slowing down. Current fitness wearables even include rings that offer more detailed biometric data including blood pressure, heart rate, sleep and calories burned. With some smartwatches now priced under $50, it’s clear why the business marketing firm Grandview Research predicts significant annual growth for such products for the next six years.

Making it Personal

For this year, fitness and wellness choices will focus more on practical effectiveness within the new normal. “I see that most don’t want to spend hours in the gym. The way life is now, we do things differently: home gyms, home office, home childcare,” notes Kennedy.

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The world of fitness is extending beyond the gym, taking inventory of all the aspects that factor into maintaining wellness. “This year, fitness is all about making workouts work for you and your lifestyle. Whether it be wearable technology, customized online personal training apps or mindset workouts that work on getting your mind in gear, 2022 has me excited,” says Stephanie Mansour, a Chicago-based fitness coach and host of the national PBS fitness and wellness show Step it Up with Steph. “I think we’re going to be focusing on habits and other areas of life like food, sleep and mindset that contribute to the effectiveness of workouts.” She also foresees people picking up inspiration from hardcore fitness devotees that share more of their personal daily habits such as journaling, affirmations and how they stay committed to investing in health. Bringing a water bottle to a yoga class or slipping on activewear is becoming digitalized, making it easier to target overall health. Staying hydrated based on individual needs is effortless using a Thermos app-connected hydration bottle with a smart lid that tracks daily intake. Mansour’s favorite fitness ally is clothing inlaid with resistance bands. “You can actually get in a workout while doing everyday activities with this resistance apparel. I love how resistance bands are built into these pants so my daily walk, yoga session or washing dishes and doing laundry turns into a workout because my muscles engage and work harder,” she says.

More Support, Less Pressure

Kennedy sees a sense of community taking root since the start of pandemic, especially via online forums and groups centered on health and fitness. “We spend so much time on the internet and social media, and during the pandemic, it was a huge outreach that will continue to grow since you can do it right from your computer or phone.” New Jersey-based fitness trainer Nadia Murdock sees a trend of prioritizing ourselves without all-too-common feelings of guilt. The founder of Core Program, designed to help entrepreneurial mothers take charge of their health and fitness, she warns about the possible trigger effect of digital trackers that use pop-up screens or reminders about daily steps. “I would suggest asking yourself why you want to use a tracker. Once you have identified the reason, you can now seek out alternative options that may cause less pressure,” she says. To stay accountable without mental anguish, she suggests using a multisport watch that offers the perk of real-time audio coaching. Kennedy concurs, saying, “The point is not to cause any more anxiety and to create a safe space. We should not be obsessing about weight and putting ourselves down, but finding a space that will lift our spirits.” Despite the benefits of the latest technology and extras, Mansour reminds us to adhere to “tried and true methodologies like regular workouts that you enjoy, eating nutritious foods and taking care of your mental health through meditation, stress-reduction techniques and getting adequate sleep.” Maya Whitman writes about natural health and living a more beautiful life. Connect at Ekstasis28@gmail.com. January 2022

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Zen Zone for Kids

Create the Perfect Calm-Down Corner at Home by Marlaina Donato

Peace, Not Punishment. A calm space can be an inviting corner, a designated room or a place outdoors. “Sensory processing is a blanket term for how our brains and bodies integrate and use the sensory information/input around us. This is

mostly environmental,” says Christopherson. Triggers may include uncomfortable room temperature, noise, inadequate or intrusive lighting, even scratchy clothing. Unlike timeout spaces that prompt kids to process actions and think about behavior, calm-down spaces can soothe a nervous system in overdrive and quell uncontrollable meltdowns. “It’s common for kids with sensory processing needs to be misunderstood and labeled as overly sensitive or explosive. Creating a

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of anger, outbursts, silence, crying, inappropriate laughing or teasing,” says occupational therapist April Christopherson, owner of ExplorationTherapy.com, in Gunnison, Colorado.

Sh a

hildren and teens are sensitive beings, and like adults, they need daily tools to offset the stresses of life. Whether a child is overwhelmed by COVID-19 protocols at school, is on the autism spectrum or is highly sensitive or anxious, creating a special place to decompress can help manage big emotions. “Children, including teens, often don’t recognize the combination of sensory stimuli that is causing anxiety, irritation or exhaustion that can then lead to emotional reactivity in the form

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space that meets your child’s sensory needs gives them a safe space to retreat to when they’re feeling overwhelmed,” says Alisha Grogan, a Pittsburgh occupational therapist and creator of YourKidsTable.com for picky eaters.

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areas can be simple or elaborate, but part of the magic formula is including objects that soothe the senses. “The calm space can contain items that allow time for stress hormones to decrease,” says certified autism specialist Cara Koscinski, of Jacksonville, Florida, founder of PocketOccupationalTherapist.com, an online source for parents, therapists and students. She recommends including sensory allies such as bean bags, therapy putty or dough, slow or classical music, a white noise machine, books, emotion identification cards and fidget toys (squishy or gel-filled balls, tangle toys or a Rubik’s Cube). A weighted blanket or stuffed animal, especially for younger children, is also a good option. “Time to refocus and allow deep breathing can make a world of difference,” says Koscinski, recommending cards with cues or instructions for deep breathing. Sarah Norris, founder of the coaching website SensoryCoach.org, with offices in Denver, Atlanta and Chicago, believes we can all benefit from sensory strategies. “Using sensation is a powerful way to change how you feel without much thought or expression,” she says. “Sensory objects can often be used in more than one way, which allows you to discover how to help yourself feel better in a fun, nonjudgmental way.” She recommends including scented items with calming essential oils and drawing pads, as well as age-appropriate and coloring books. Grogan’s sensory picks are stress balls, kinetic sand, noise-cancelling headphones, scented teddy bears and chewy necklaces for a child to bite on. “Families may want to have a variety of sensory tools and toys available so a child can choose what’s helpful for them,” she says. Ambient lighting, including lava lamps and year-round holiday lights, can set the mood of any sensory space.

Tranquil Possibilities. Setting up stress-free zones at home

doesn’t have to be a one-size-fits all approach. Norris favors going outside the box. “If you have the space to set up a reading nook or a semi-permanent pillow fort, your kids will love you for it. Don’t overlook the possibility of using outdoor spaces as places to promote calm. Being in nature can be very regulating, especially if there is a comfy seat or fun swing to enjoy.” If making an area at home doesn’t work for some families, Norris suggests highly effective portable kits that can come along in the car or to doctor’s appointments. Christopherson encourages creative options like a comfortable beanbag at the bottom of a closet, a rocking chair with a heavy blanket or an outside fort or tree house. For multi-sibling homes, Grogan recommends a pop-up tent in a corner or in smaller spaces or a blanket thrown over a table for an instant fort. Whatever the setup or individual needs, calm spaces encourage kids to find their center and claim their space in a chaotic world. “All kids should be given what they need for success,” underscores Koscinski. Marlaina Donato is an author and a recording artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

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The Electric Vehicle Revolution by Jim Motavalli

But there’s more. Fuel and service costs have been dramatically reduced with EVs. A 2018 University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute study pegged the average cost to operate an EV at $485 a year, compared to $1,117 for a gas-operated car, and battery packs and electric motors take up less space than engines, transmissions and radiators. This means larger passenger compartments with more legroom and no center “hump”, and storage up front (the so-called “frunk”), as well as behind. Designers are even able to ditch the grille—a feature shared by all but a few air-cooled cars on the market.

EVs Get More Affordable. The high

lmost certainly, electric cars are in everyone’s future. Not only are automakers—from General Motors and Volvo to Rolls-Royce and Bentley—pledging to stop producing gas and diesel cars, but a long list of countries in Europe and Asia plus three U.S. states are planning to ban them by 2040 or earlier, often citing climate change imperatives. This wouldn’t be happening if electrification technology was standing still. Instead, it’s

made rapid progress to the point that electric vehicles (EV) are more often than not better cars than their internal combustion counterparts. A range of 300 miles or more (the top model of the luxurious Lucid Air claims 520) has become commonplace, and the inherent properties of electric motors—such as lots of low-end torque—means they’re very fast off the line. The Rimac Nevera, an EV supercar, reaches 60 mph in an incredible 1.85 seconds.

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cost of EVs has been off-putting. The Tesla Model S Plaid Edition, made in California, starts at $129,990, the Arizona-produced Lucid sells for up to $170,000, and the Croatian-made Rimac costs $2.4 million. That’s one reason EV penetration is low—accounting for only 2 percent of U.S. sales in 2020. By last year, there were almost 1.8 million EVs on American roads—three times the number of 2016—but affordable cars would make the numbers grow much faster. The federal $7,500 federal income tax credit for EVs helps, but it has a 200,000-unit sales cap, and General Motors and Tesla have already met it. Some states, and especially EV-friendly California, have generous additional incentives, and a proposed increase in the tax credit from $7,500 to $12,500 is under consideration by Congress. Battery pack costs—the key reason EVs are expensive—went down an average of 16

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percent per year between 2007 and 2020, the University of Pennsylvania reports. And that has created cheaper electric vehicles such as the Chevrolet Bolt ($31,995), Hyundai Kona ($34,000), Mini Cooper SE ($30,750), Nissan Leaf ($32,620) and Tesla Model 3 ($41,190). The big news for truck fans is that the country’s bestselling vehicle for many years, the Ford F-150 pickup, will have a battery electric variant called the Lightning on the market this spring with a price under $40,000. For some people, hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles are a better choice. They’re certainly cheaper. Toyota’s long-lived Prius (with 58 mpg city/53 highway) starts at $24,525. And there’s an appealing Ford hybrid truck, too—the Maverick—at $19,995. It went on sale late last year. These “green” trucks are undoubtedly better for the environment than their gas and diesel counterparts. Greenhouse gas production is directly tied to fuel economy, and some versions of the current F-150 pickup get only 15 mpg combined. The only emissions from its EV counterpart and battery trucks like it will be from the generation of the electricity to run them. The Maverick hybrid gets 40 mpg in city driving. In 2020, researchers in England and Holland said that driving an EV is better for the environment in 95 percent of the world—the exception would be in areas with very dirty coal-based grids. For a complete lifecycle analysis, it’s necessary to factor in the effects of manufacturing, the mining of rare earth minerals, the makeup of the local grid, end-of-life recycling and other factors. EVs do have slightly higher

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greenhouse gas production from recycling (1.8 tons versus 2.4 tons) because of battery processing, a Chinese study says. But that same study reports that complete lifecycle emissions for EVs are 18 percent lower. The good news is that many of the factors that go into lifecycle analysis are getting better for EVs. Renewable energy is the fastest-growing energy source, and the amount in the U.S. grid increased 100 percent between 2000 and 2018. Lithium is essential for modern EV batteries, and both General Motors and BMW have invested in more sustainable methods of extraction.

Integrating with the Home. Another

EV cost is the installation of 240-volt electricity for home charging. But in 2020 the International Code Council (ICC) set new voluntary guidelines for new homes that would make all of them “EV-Ready”. Installing the necessary wiring when the house is built would cost $920, compared to $3,550 for a retrofit, says the ICC. Some municipalities, such as Seattle, already require EV wiring for new homes with off-street parking. Increasingly, EVs are being equipped for two-way power, meaning they can power homes or construction sites. That’s one part of the appeal of Ford’s Lightning, which has 9.6 kilowatts of power available to keep the lights on during a power outage. It can provide fullhome electricity for three days.

What to Expect.

Buying an EV will require some lifestyle changes, most but not all of them positive. Passing up gas stations is

a plus. Studies show that 80 percent or more of EV charging will be done at home, mostly at night. Regular servicing for tuneups and oil changes will become a distant memory, and so will the financial bite. AAA says EVs will cost on average $949 less per year to maintain. Many of today’s electric cars have range limitations, and this needs to be factored into trip planning. The 2021 Volkswagen I.D. 4 Pro can travel 260 miles on a charge, perhaps not enough to get to grandma’s house. The 2021 Nissan Leaf only has a 150-mile range, although the Leaf Plus increases that to 226. Buying used is tempting, because some EVs—such as early Nissan Leafs—are highly affordable, with good ones costing about $7,000. But its range is poor, just 73 miles. While some older Teslas have credible range, they’ve also retained their value pretty well. In general, buying new—which includes claiming the federal income tax credit—is a better idea. First-time EV buyers worry about high prices, range, finding public chargers (although the $7.5 billion allocated to build them in the recent infrastructure bill may help), the considerable time needed to recharge at home, compromised interior space and replacing the expensive battery packs. These are all legitimate concerns, but the lower-priced, roomy, fastcharging EVs coming on the market now—and a network of more than 41,000 public chargers—go a long way toward addressing them. Jim Motavalli can be contacted at JimMotavalli.com.

We make 100% all natural products for helping and promoting better health and skin. We have several doctors who not only carry our products but use them as well. We are state certified, state inspected, and THE ONLY Chaga facility licensed in the U.P. MidnightSpcl_59@yahoo.com • UPChagaConnection.com January 2022

plant medicine

High Times for the Cannabis Industry Emerging Trends with a COVID-19 Caveat

by Jim Motavalli

t’s fair to say that the cannabis industry has arrived. Recreational marijuana has now been approved in 17 states, and 37 have allowed marijuana for medical purposes. “We have CBD!” proclaim store signs selling the buzz-free cannabidiol. In 2020, more than 240,000 people worked in cannabis-related jobs. The Brightfield Group says the medical cannabis industry will reach $16 billion in annual U.S. sales by 2025. Cannabis market research firm Headset predicts this will be “a year of positive growth” for the industry. Legalization and expansion are strongly in line with public sentiment: Two-thirds of Americans believe marijuana should be legal, says the Pew Research Center. Opposition has fallen from 52 percent in 2010 to just 32 percent by the end of 2019. “Dispensaries and cannabis cafés are as commonplace as Starbucks, and ordering edibles is as easy as getting pizza,” reports marketing firm Grassfed Media. The National Retail Federation noted a 700 percent increase in the demand for CBD-based products in 2019. One caveat, however, is COVID-19. Ron Newman, a sustainable development analyst with Lee Enterprises Consulting, says the hemp/ CBD business was flat during 2020 because of the pandemic. “With the economic situation, people were buying only essentials,” he says. “But we’re seeing the business start to come back now.” With COVID-19 recovery, more growth is certain, and here are some upcoming trends. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active ingredient in marijuana that gets the user high. The natural compound CBD—said to have healing and pain/anxiety relief properties—is being heavily marketed in the form of oils, edibles (including gummy bears and lollipops), oral sprays, creams and pills. The third-most popular food-related Google 24

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search term in 2018 was “CBD gummies”. CBD dietary supplements are the biggest category, followed by topical applications and third, food and beverage additives. THC is still illegal in many parts of the U.S., but CBD cultivation and sales were legalized by the 2018 Farm Bill. California offers a model for the states in regulating cannabis. Both medicinal cannabis and adult recreational use are legal, but the industry is strictly regulated by the Department of Cannabis Control to ensure that businesses operate safely and that products are free from contamination, properly labeled and kept away from children. Research into cannabis is an emerging field, with 23,000 papers published since 2010, and Grassfed believes that some future products will be based on “other cannabinoids and terpenes such as CBN, CBG, THCA and THCV.” In addition, strains labeled indica, sativa or hybrid, or with names like Gorilla Glue and Wedding Crasher, may increasingly be replaced by a scientifically supported classification system. Bar & Restaurant magazine wants its bartenders to know there might be THC-free CBD cocktails on their future bar menus. It reports that these drinks are “a legal grey area; federally they’re illegal, but some states have their own CBD-related laws.” The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says flatly, “It is currently illegal to market CBD by adding it to a food or labeling it as a dietary supplement,” but the agency has said it is considering relaxing this prohibition. There’s a Wild West quality to the CBD/hemp industry today. An FDA study found many CBD products to be mislabeled, with either more or less CBD than indicated. A significant number contained THC. And then there are the laws, with federal prohibitions and state regulations, that can be quite different. For instance, New York bans CBD products with more than 0.3 percent THC, and bans CBD from any alcohol or tobacco product. So determining whether any specific product is “legal” or not in different locations is complex. But marketing benefits are plain. Jody McGinness, executive director of the Hemp Industries Association, says the FDA doesn’t actually have strong enforcement powers, and that the worst thing CBD/THC legal violators can expect from the agency is a warning letter posted on the FDA website. Gregg Sturz, co-founder of Florida-based CBD Hemp Experts, a leading wholesale provider of cannabis-derived products, says he expects the FDA to eventually approve CBD for use in dietary supplements. “I don’t think they’re trying to shut the industry down, just come up with some clear guidelines,” he says. The legal status of THC is such a question mark that, according to Investopedia’s Marijuana Investing Guide, large banks “are currently afraid of money-laundering charges they may face if they work with these businesses … The American Bankers’ Association has been pushing for more legal clarity.” Newman, who studies the medicinal uses of CBD, notes that in some cases it’s being marketed as a topical analgesic for pain relief, when actually the other proven ingredients in analgesics—including methanol and camphor—are doing the heavy lifting. This situation has also produced FDA warning letters, because if CBD is claimed to relieve pain, then it is required to go through a new drug application process for efficacy.

In 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex, an oral solution with CBD as an active ingredient, used for the treatment of rare and severe forms of epilepsy. While it’s the only approved product so far, studies suggest CBD might be useful for anxiety, insomnia, skin protection and addiction. McGinness sees the major growth area for cannabis-related products not in CBD, but in industrial hemp fiber. As hemp growers gear up in the Midwest after decades of federal bans, they’re likely to expand beyond cottage clothing companies into such areas as auto and industrial parts and building materials, he says. “Hemp products made in a green way create fewer emissions,” McGinness says. “And the bioplastics made from hemp are lighter-weight, which increases fuel efficiency. I expect we’ll see heartland industrial hemp grow so much it will make CBD look like a niche.”

Experience the Healing Power of Nature oil tinctures • gummies • topicals pet products • coffee • tea • kangen water

Jim Motavalli is a Connecticut-based journalist who writes about the environment. He can be contacted via JimMotavalli.com.

business spotlight

Hometown CBD Heroes Jennifer Jimenez, a former radiation therapist, and Ramiro Jimenez, a former head chef, are the owners of Purely CBD of Traverse City. Through their personal use of cannabidiol (CBD) and seeing how much help and relief it provided for themselves and even their pets, the couple decided to share those benefits with the community. Jennifer says, “We are very knowledgeable about our products. We want to help our customers. All our products are third-party tested, USA-made and all-natural! We also carry local Traverse City products. Our products have been shown to help with inflammation, pain, anxiety, stress, sleep, and much more. We offer a natural approach to healthy living.” Ramiro advises, “If we don’t have a product you’re looking for, we will try to find it for you. We offer free shipping and local delivery when you call our store. We are always adding new products. We have many local physicians and therapists that recommend their patients to our store. We hope to educate more people about the great benefits of CBD.” Purely CBD provides free Kangen water and refills for life with a one-time purchase of a jug. Kangen water is high-alkaline, antioxidizing and six times more hydrating than tap water.

Purely CBD is located at 1112 E. Front St., in Traverse City. For more information, call 231-421-1070 or visit Purely CBD-TraverseCity.com. See ad on this page.

231-421-1070 1112 E Front St, Traverse City PurelyCBD-TraverseCity.com Call us for free shipping!

Your Best Grow Ever! Hydroponic and Organic Products for All Your Indoor Growing Needs! We have experts on hand to answer your questions and get you started, so drop by soon and talk with our team, the best in the business! If you are an organic gardener they have everything you need here. – Christina A.

“The Store with More!”

P Locally Owned and Operated Since 2009 P Over 40 Years of Combined Experience P Over 2500 Products in Stock

Traverse City • 231-421-5191 • TheGrowStore.com January 2022

natural pet

Pet-Pleasing Food Trends

What Dogs and Cats Will Eat This Year by Ronica O’Hara

og and cat food is becoming ever more humanized in the U.S. Market researchers and veterinarians report that consumers are increasingly demanding for their pets what they want for themselves: high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients that are free of questionable byproducts. “Organic, gluten-free and even vegan are now mainstream when it comes to Fido and Fluffy,” says integrative veterinarian Carol Osborne, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio. “Fancy foods, gourmet treats, even personal pet chefs have become the norm.” In a turnabout on animal testing, some companies advertise that their pet food products are tested on humans. It’s the logical outcome of an evolution in how pets are regarded, say psychologists. Only a few decades ago, most dogs slept in doghouses rather than in bedrooms, and most cats were free-range explorers of the outdoors. Today, two in three American households have a pet, and the animals are increasingly part of the family—sometimes even more beloved than human family members. One study, for example, found young children more likely to confide in a pet than in a sibling. A mattress company survey found that 71 percent of pet owners sleep with their furry friends. The forced togetherness of the pandemic drew pets and owners even closer. “Today, pet owners want to reward their pets in every way possible to let them know how grateful they are for the unconditional love and companionship they provide,” says Osborne. The urge to lovingly pamper pets starts at the food dish with many emerging trends.

Custom Tailoring. According to market analyst firm Mintel, three in five U.S. pet owners are willing to pay more for foods that are customized to their pet’s specific dietary needs, a trend being eagerly 26

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met by more than 700 brands and 10,000 products. Today, a dizzying array of foods are tailored to pets’ ages, breeds and physical and emotional conditions. Obese dogs can chomp down on high-protein, low-fat foods; anxious pups can mellow out with foods that contain hemp and CBD oil; and dogs prone to kidney stones may find relief on a renal-support formula. Consumers unable to purchase pricey, specialized formulas are making kibble less boring by adding flavorful mix-ins and toppers such as shredded tuna and lamb liver flakes.

Going Plant-Based. The slow but sure rise in the number

of Americans that eat natural, plant-based diets has its parallel in animal diets. Organic pet food free of pesticides, antibiotics and chemicals constitute a robust, $22-billion-a-year business in the U.S., and vegan pet food sales are predicted to grow globally by 12 percent a year. Ancient grains like amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat and millet are included in gluten-free formulas to satisfy a small but growing market. To make plant-based chow more appealing, pet food makers are adding savory flavors and substituting chemical enhancers with kitchen ingredients like vinegar.

Rethinking Meat. Some manufacturers are replacing chicken and beef with more adventurous, gamey proteins such as rabbit, venison, bison and wild boar. “Products are advertising how you can bring out their inner wolf by feeding them that food, because it is more natural to their instincts,” says Heather Venkat, the acting public health veterinarian for Arizona. Revenues are predicted to nearly double from $277 million in 2018 to $525 million in 2025 for a growing favorite: raw meat in the form of freeze-dried kibble. Ethical Buys.

Consumers are examining labels to find pet food that is sustainable and responsibly sourced. “‘Made in the USA’ remains a popular claim and feature that may even be increasing, along with a demand for ethical claims, sustainability concerns and cause marketing,” writes Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry. In a survey of U.S. dog and cat owners conducted by Packaged Facts in early 2020, 69 percent reported concern about the treatment of animals raised for use in pet food.

Cautionary Notes.

When buying pet food, veterinarians urge pet owners not to be overly swayed by advertising claims. “For example, the words ‘holistic’, ‘ancestral’, ‘instinctual’, ‘gourmet’ and ‘premium’ are really just marketing. On the other hand, ‘organic’, ‘natural’ and ‘human-grade’ all have specific definitions when they are applied to pet foods,” says veterinarian Jennifer Coates, of Fort Collins, Colorado, author of The Dictionary of Veterinary Terms. “Most importantly, watch how your pet does while eating a particular food. If your pet is maintaining a healthy weight and has normal digestive function (firm stools, no vomiting), good energy levels, normal amounts of shedding and that ‘glow’ of good health, the diet you’ve picked is probably a good match,” she says. Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

inspiration

Why Words Matter by Marlaina Donato

rom witchy incantations in Shakespeare’s Macbeth to ancient Sanskrit mantras; from the stirring speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr. to the divinely inspired poetry of the Sufis, words have bridged the chasm between the visible and the invisible since the dawn of human language. They have the capacity to conjure change, rock the boat, manipulate mood and alter the inner landscape. According to language research center

Ethnologue, there are more than 7,000 languages in the world. We use words every day to communicate, to learn, to teach, to bond with kindred souls and to win opinion wars on social media. We can use words as medicine or weapons, and we too often forget their power. Many religious texts draw attention to the spoken word, especially in creation stories and the creative capacity of deity. In the Vedanta Sutra, an ancient Vedic text,

the phrase anavritti sabdat translates to “by sound vibration, one becomes liberated.” Consider what it would be like if we each made a daily commitment to use everyday words as a conscious tool for healing—a practical form of spiritual discipline from which everyone might benefit. In our age of rapidly developing technology and jam-packed schedules, the spoken word is becoming a casualty in the daily blur of abbreviated texts and emojis. Forty percent of the world’s languages are on the threshold of extinction, and so is the language of everyday courtesy and compassion. “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” the old saying goes, but words do hurt, chipping away at our mental health in the classroom, on the checkout line at the supermarket and in our social media newsfeeds. Negativity-overwhelm has become the norm. If the mystics of old are correct regarding the energetic impact of our words, thoughts and self-talk, incredible power awaits on the tip of our tongues. With a little bit of attention and intention, there’s so much we might be able to create for ourselves and others. Words are seeds, and we can sow life-sustaining gardens for generations to follow. Consider what to plant today. Marlaina Donato is the author of several books and a composer of visionary music. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Here at Square Deal we feel pets are part of the family. Our Knowledgeable staff is here to help you find food, treats, and products that

keep your pets happy and healthy!

We carry the top holistic brands of Dog and Cat food. We Carry a large seletion of Raw and Freeze dried diets.

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(231) 946-5030 • SquareDealCountryStore.com • Square Deal Country Store • 900 Woodmere Ave, Traverse City • Local Family Owned since 1982 January 2022

calendar of events

VistaTech Center, 18600 Haggerty Rd, Livonia. SchoolCraft.edu.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 1 America’s State Parks First Day Hikes – Choose your favorite state park and hike, cross-county ski, ride (horse or bike) or snowshoe and keep track of your miles. Then go online and add your miles to the collective total and help us reach a New Year’s Day goal of 2,022 miles. Details: Tinyurl.com/2p8uyh8x.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 4 Virtual Trimdown Weight Challenge – Jan 4, 9am-Jan 5, 8pm, weigh-in. A community challenge to commit to a healthier lifestyle. Ends with a weigh-out Mar 22, 9am-Mar 23, 8pm. $1,800 in gift certificates awarded to the winning teams; portion of all proceeds donated to the Northwest MI Food Coalition and the NMC Student Food Pantry. $5/ person. Register by Jan 3: tctrimdown.com.

Consciousness Hacking 2.0 – 7pm. Features a provocative discussion between Dr. Newsom and Mr. Duvall on the healing properties and potential of psychedelics, specifically ketamine. Free. Virtual. FindingMetis.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 13 Gentle Yoga – Thursdays, Jan 13-Feb 3. 10-11am. All levels welcome. This is a great beginner class too. With Janae Ernest. $50/nonmembers, $45/ members, $15/drop-in. Charlevoix Circle of Arts, 109 Clinton St, Charlevoix. CharlevoixCircle.org.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 14 Moon-Lit Guided Snowshoe – 7-8:30pm. Join a naturalist on a guided snowshoe through Grass

FRIDAY, JANUARY 7 New Year’s Night Ski and Snowshoe – 7-9pm. Start the new year off right with an evening self-guided ski on GRNA’s groomed ski trails or a snowshoe to the river. A fire and hot cocoa available. Bring own headlamp to light your way. $5/person. Grass River Natural Area, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. Registration required: GrassRiver.org.

12th Annual Winter Trails Day – 10:30am-2pm. A fun, family-friendly day of winter trail activities. Free trail access, introductory ski lessons, fatbike demos, guided snowshoe hikes and use of equipment rentals for those new to winter trail sports. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, 4050 Hammond Rd E, Traverse City. Register: TraverseTrails.org.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 9 Future Predictions Class 2022 – 11am-3pm. Using the tools of astrology and numerology, presenter Kathryn Andries will teach participants about their planetary and numerological influences for the coming year. $75. Higher Self Bookstore, 313 E Front St, Traverse City. Pre-registration required: 231-941-5805 or HigherSelfBookstore.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12 Self-Hypnosis for Attention and Relaxation – 6-8pm. Begin with a brief history of hypnosis and its practical applications in everyday life. Learn how to use self-hypnosis as a tool for solving problems in a practiced and logical yet relaxed atmosphere. Online sessions at Schoolcraft College Personal and Professional Learning. $39.20. Schoolcraft College,

Grand Traverse Region

Gaze into the Future with Vision Boards – 6:308pm. Join us in creating your vision for 2022. Start off with a blank canvas as we delve into a new year. Free. Traverse Area District Library, 610 Woodmere Ave, Traverse City. 231-932-8500. Register: Tinyurl.com/6jtx8y2s.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 22 Winter Fungi Walk – 10am-12pm. Go on a winter walk in search of the fungi of winter, like shelf mushrooms on fallen logs, bark and standing trees. With long-time mushroom hunter and naturalist, Franny Bluhm. $10/person. Grass River Natural Area, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. Registration required: GrassRiver.org.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 23 Online: Gaze into the Future with Vision Boards – 6:30-8pm. Join Traverse Area District Library in creating your vision for 2022. Start off with a blank canvas as we delve into a new year. Free. Via Zoom. 231-932-8500. Register: Tinyurl.com/6jtx8y2s.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 8 Community Wholistic Education Call – Jan 8 & 15. 10-11am. Jesse R. Brown, ND, traditional Naturopath, will hold a free call on How to be the Healer in your home. Will address how you can discover the healing power in you to help yourself and your loved ones if you choose to.The healing powers of intention. attention, food as medicine, herbs, energy, touch, and ancient healing methods will be revealed. Via Zoom. Details: WholisticTrainingInstitute.com.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19 Certified Herbalist Training Begins – 6-8pm. 8 wks. Herbology 2 with Wholistic Training Institute (a state of Michigan-licensed school). Learn more historic uses of medicinal herbs and how to prepare poultices and special applications. May be taken together with Herbology 1 at a reduced rate. Instructor Dr. Jesse R. Brown and team. Course also available self-paced. $500. Via Zoom. 313-2556155. WholisticTrainingInstitute.com.

River’s forests at night to look for signs and sounds of nocturnal animals. Snowshoes available for rent for an additional $5. $10/person. Grass River Natural Area, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. Registration required: GrassRiver.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15 Community Wholistic Education Call – 10-11am. See Jan 8 listing. Details: WholisticTrainingInstitute.com. New Year Metaphysical Fair – 10am-6pm. Kick the new year off right with our first Metaphysical Fair of the year. Will have over a dozen readers offering insight to what the year may hold for you. No appointment necessary. $10/10-min reading. Higher Self Bookstore, 313 E Front St, Traverse City. 231-941-5805. HigherSelfBookstore.com.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18 Online: How to Grow Sprouts – 6-7pm. Learn how to grow fresh sprouts in your kitchen year-round with Dr Sainz. $10. Register: Oryana.coop Certified Herbalist Training Begins – 6-8pm. 8 wks. Herbology 1 with Wholistic Training Institute (a state of Michigan-licensed school). Learn to the historic medicinal uses of herbs and about a variety of health conditions. Discover your body systems, what they do and which herbs support them. Instructor Dr. Jesse R. Brown and team. Course also available self-paced. $500. Via Zoom. 313-2556155. WholisticTrainingInstitute.com.

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25 Online: Warming Winter Soups & Stews – 6-7pm. Follow along with Chef Ali as we warm up the body and soul with a hearty, homemade bowl of hot soup or chili. $10. Register: Oryana.coop.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29 Become Untamed: Horse and Nature Retreat – 10am-2pm. Practices to express more fully and step out of self-imposed cages. Learn to lead through presence and authenticity. Men, women & all gender identities welcome. $189 in-person. Mother Bear Sanctuary, 20470 Barton Rd, Pinckney. 734-7966690. MotherBearSanctuary.com. Shadow Fest – 10am-5pm. Celebrates the best of winter. With numerous fun activities, there is something for everyone. 109 Mason St, Charlevoix. Facebook.com/CharlevoixShadowfest. Foot Reflexology Session – 11am-6pm. Pat is a certified reflexologist, aromatherapist and Usui Reiki Master in addition to a Master of Science in plant sciences. 30-60-min sessions. Higher Self Bookstore, 313 E Front St, Traverse City. 231-9415805. HigherSelfBookstore.com.

PLAN AHEAD TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Get the Most from Your DNA Test – 6-8pm. Explore the popular trend of DNA testing for individuals in an easy to-understand casual presentation.

Explore the options and further work necessary to make your testing results even more worthwhile. Discussion and examples of current offerings are key components of this online class. $39. Washtenaw Community College: 734-677-5060 or wccnet. edu/noncredit.

MARCH-MAY Rooted Visionaries – Self-acceptance, chi gong, sexual embodiment. Heal trauma and receive community support. 2 workshops weekly and a monthly session for $222. Mother Bear Sanctuary, 20470 Barton Rd, Pinckney. 734-796-6690. MotherBearSanctuary.com.

ongoing events

sundays Men’s Circle: Stories in Council – 6:30pm. 1st Sun. An open group of men who come together in a safe, confidential space to share and gain from each other’s experience and presence. Free. Yoga Bellaire, 216 Portage Dr, Bellaire. YogaBellaire.com.

mondays Cancer Care Support Discovery Call – 6-6:30pm. For those looking to incorporate a holistic, functional element of care into their cancer treatment plan by working in conjunction with your oncologists, surgeons, primary care physician and physical medicine practitioners. More info: MIHolisticMed.com.

tuesdays Empowerment Circle – 10:30-11:30am. With Heather Zigler. By bringing new light to an ancient and traditional tool used by indigenous people around the globe. Circles are a place to transform ME to WE as a space where the principle of sharing power with each other exists instead of having power over one another. 1st class free. Pure Essence Wellness Center, 1240 E 8th St, Traverse City. 231499-8595. HeatherZigler.com.

wednesdays Empowerment Circle – 5:30-6:30pm. See Tues listing. Pure Essence Wellness Center, 1240 E 8th St, Traverse City. 231-499-8595. HeatherZigler.com.

thursdays Yoga in East Park – 8:30-9:30am. With Charlevoix Yoga. Weather permitting. $20. East Park 400 Bridge St, Charlevoix. CharlevoixYoga.com.

Weekly Facebook Live with Dr. McSwain – 5:306pm. More info: MIHolisticMed.com. The Goddess Workout Beginner Hula Dance Class – 6:30-7:30pm. For absolute beginners of all ages, sizes and shapes. Learn basic hula moves and combinations. $80/8-wk session, $15/drop-in. First Congregational Church, 8066 W State St, Central Lake. AmiraHamzarRaks.com. Red Tent: Women’s Circle – 7pm. 2nd Thurs. Meet local women, share your journey and grow together. Hosted by Aria, Red Tents are a gentle introduction to women’s sacred circles. Free. Yoga Bellaire, 216 Portage Dr, Bellaire. YogaBellaire.com.

If You Are Reading This, So Are Your Potential Customers.

Community Night – 7-9pm. 4th Thurs. Each month we will host a different theme for connecting with your fellow Bellaire community members. Movie nights, potlucks, cacao and conversation, etc. Everyone welcome, including families; do not need to practice yoga. Yoga Bellaire, 216 Portage Dr, Bellaire. YogaBellaire.com.

fridays Candle Light Hike at Mt. McSauba – Jan 7- Feb 25. 5-8pm. Experience the magic of snowshoeing, hiking or cross-country skiing on candle-lit trails. Set own pace on this self-guided journey. Free; donations accepted. Mt. McSauba, 09223 Mt. McSauba Rd, Charlevoix. 231-547-3253. The Goddess Workout Beginner Belly Dance Rhythms: Maksoum – 6-7pm. Ring in the New Year by learning to play the finger cymbals in a beginner belly dance class taught by certified GoddessLife instructor, Amira Hamzar. For absolute beginners of all ages, sizes and shapes. In-person & Zoom. $40/mo, $15/drop-in. Pure Essence Wellness Center, 1240 E 8th St, Traverse City. 231-499-8595. AmiraHamzarRaks.com.

saturdays Indoor Farmers’ Market – Thru Apr 30. 10am-2pm. Presented by The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Free admission. Mercato, 830 Cottageview Dr, Traverse City. TheVillageTC.com/farmers-market. InterPlay: Dive Deep into Creative Self-expression – 3-5:30pm. 3rd Sat. An active, creative way to unlock the wisdom of the body. New Moon Yoga, 10781 E Cherry Bend Rd, Traverse City. 231-421-3120. SoulWaysHealing.com.

classifieds HELP WANTED LOOKING FOR DEDICATED AND PASSIONATE DISTRIBUTOR / SALES OF ALL- NATURAL PRODUCTS. This is not a MLM, this is based on product sales of retail and sales to the public. This will include contacting the public as well as outdoor and indoor events. Calling on stores and businesses. Must be passionate about healthy living and helping others be healthy. Michigan-made products. We are a licensed, insured, certified Company. Please contact U.P. Chaga Connection 906-282-0787 (Serious inquiries only).

734-757-7929 Publisher@HealthyLivingMichigan.com January 2022

community resource guide ADVANCED WELLNESS EARTH LABS

ARIA MAE EVERTS

317a E Front St, Traverse City 231-421-1490 EarthLabsHeal.com Subtle modalities including sound, light, frequency and thermogenic therapies to enhance and transform your quality of life. Our techno-therapy will reduce pain and restore energy. See ads pages 19 and back cover.

Coach, Facilitator, Healer Aria@AriaMae.com AriaMae.com Spiritually integrative coaching, healing and retreats for Conscious Leaders. In-person and virtual personal development for those who envision a world where all life is honored. See ad page 8.

COOKING & TEA BREWING

MY CBD

SPICE & TEA MERCHANTS

Kelly Young MyTCBD.com All-Natural CBD products. We source from only organic, environmentally socially responsible companies that believe in cruelty-free testing. Life is too short to feel anything less than your personal best. Ask about our distributor options where you can be your own boss. See ad page 22.

PURELY CBD

1112 E Front St, Traverse City 231-421-1070 PurelyCBD-TraverseCity.com

SHARED BLESSINGS FARM

7291 18 Mile Rd, Marion 231-743-2286

We are a family farm focused on healthy soils to produce healthy grass-finished animals rich in minerals and omega-3s and omega-6s with real fat that is good for you. See ad page 20.

HALOTHERAPY

CHAGA PRODUCTS

Providing the world’s best herbs, spices and teas for your kitchen. We carry over 200 spices from everyday use to the most exotic as well as over 120 different teas. See ad page 16.

SHARED BLESSINGS FARM

7291 18 Mile Rd, Marion 231-743-2286

We are a family farm focused on healthy soils to produce healthy animals so they can produce healthy raw milk for your good. Taste to know the difference. See ad page 20.

GIFT CERTIFICATES

U.P. CHAGA CONNECTION

906-282-0787 MidnightSpcl_59@yahoo.com UPChagaConnection.com

URBAN OASIS SALT SPA

545 S. Division Suite 117 Traverse City 231-938-6020

Freshest, cleanest, wildest organic Chaga available in the Upper Peninsula. State certified. Immune-Boosting Superfood. For centuries, people have used chaga mushrooms for medicinal purposes. Packed with antioxidants, its extract may fight cancer, chronic inflammation, improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels. See ad page 23.

13709 S. West Bayshore Dr, Traverse City 231-938-6020 UrbanOasisSaltSpa.com

Dry salt therapy, massage, detox, organic facial services, exclusive salt room made from 15,000 pounds of Himalayan pink salt supports overall health and wellness. See ad page 7.

145 E Front St, Traverse City 231-947-7423 SpiceMerchants.biz/traverse-cityspice-store

FRESH MILK HERD SHARES

At Purely CBD Traverse City, we strive to provide our customers with top-quality products that help serve their personal needs. As a locally owned business, we are dedicated to caring for our community and prioritize your overall well-being. See ad page 25.

Grand Traverse Region

GRASS-FINISHED BEEF

URBAN OASIS SALT SPA

CBD PRODUCTS

COACHING & COUNSELING

UrbanOasisSaltSpa.com

Give the gift of health and beauty this holiday season. Treat a loved one to our dry salt therapy, massage, detox, organic facial services, or exclusive salt room made from 15,000 pounds of Himalayan pink salt that supports overall health and wellness. See ad page 7.

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

HEALTHY PET SQUARE DEAL COUNTRY STORE

900 Woodmere Ave, Traverse City 231-946-5030 SquareDealCountryStore.com

Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the best food, treats and products for your pets. See discounts page 27.

HOLISTIC MENTAL WELLNESS KELLIE ZIEHM

Kellie.Amare@yahoo.com 734-344-2339 AmareMentalWellness.com Come join my team with this ground floor distributor opportunity with the only holistic mental wellness company in direct sales. I’m also looking for healthcare professionals to join our influencer program. See ad page 18.

HYDROPONICS & ORGANIC GARDENING PRODUCTS THE GROW STORE

90 N U.S. Hwy 31 S, Traverse City 231-421-5191 Facebook: The Grow Store Traverse City

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION

503 East Broadway St, Mt. Pleasant 989-773-1714 Contact@NaturopathicInstitute.info NaturopathicInstitute.info

Serving Traverse City and the Northern Michigan region since 2009. Specilizing in organics, hydroponics and lighting systems for the indoor grower. A locally owned, service-oriented company. See ad page 25.

Educational programs offered: Natural Health Program: four years (one weekend a month); Massage Therapy Program: one year (two weekends a month); Holistic Doula Practitioner Program: six months (one weekend a month). Individual classes available. See ad page 3.

LESS ANXIETY NATURALLY

PERSONAL & SPIRITUAL GROWTH WORKSHOPS

EARTH LABS

317a E Front St, Traverse City 231-421-1490 EarthLabsHeal.com Advanced technologies in the sound and light lab ease anxiety and relieve chronic pain. Enhance your mood and bring balance to the limbic system. See ads pages 19 and back cover.

INNER LISTENING™ WORKSHOPS

Rev. Julie Chai 231-922-9699 InnerListening.me

Inner Listening™ workshops for compassionate self-awareness, presence, serenity, love, and joy, offer you the theory, practice, and support to move beyond emotional reactions and into deep healing, compassion, and empowerment. See ad page 21.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT THE SCHOOL OF AMBROSIAL ANIMALS

Aria@AriaMae.com 774-578-2762 AmbrosialAnimals.com

Ambrosial Animals is a Spiritual Development Program for Conscious Leaders - an initiation for those ready to step into their missions more powerfully. See ad page 8.

SCHOOL / EDUCATION NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION

503 East Broadway St, Mt. Pleasant 989-773-1714 Contact@NaturopathicInstitute.info NaturopathicInstitute.info

CELEBRATING 28 years in THE business of

January 2022

Grand Traverse Region

HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Natural Awakenings of Grand Traverse Region Michigan - January 2022

Articles inside

HEALTH IN THE NEW YEAR

FAITH HEALING PRODUCES TANGIBLE RESULTS

A BETTER MORNING JOLT

PET-PLEASING FOOD TRENDS

THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE REVOLUTION

WHY WORDS MATTER

HIGH TIMES FOR THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY