Natural Awakenings of Grand Traverse Region Michigan - February 2023

Heart-Healthy Living

Natural Virus Killer Copper can stop a virus

before it starts

By Doug Cornell

Scientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast.

Now thousands of people are using it against viruses and bacteria that cause illness.

Colds and many other illnesses start when viruses get in your nose and multiply. If you don’t stop them early, they spread and cause misery.

Hundreds of studies confirm copper kills viruses and bacteria almost instantly just by touch.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. They didn’t know about viruses and bacteria, but now we do.

“The antimicrobial activity of copper is well established.” National Institutes of Health.

Scientists say copper’s high conductance disrupts the electrical balance in a microbe cell and destroys it in seconds.

The EPA recommended hospitals use copper for touch surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saved lives.

The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. He made a smooth copper probe

with a tip to fit in the bottom of the nostril, where viruses collect.

When he felt a tickle in his nose like a cold about to start, he rubbed the copper gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold never happened. I used to get 2-3 bad colds every year. Now I use my device whenever I feel a sign I am about to get sick.”

He hasn’t had a cold in 10 years.

Users say:

“It works! I love it!”

“I can’t believe how good my nose feels.”

“Is it supposed to work that fast?”

“One of the best presents ever.”

“Sixteen flights, not a sniffle!”

“Cold sores gone!”

“It saved me last holidays. The kids all got sick, but not me.”

“I am shocked! My sinus cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.”

“Best sleep I’ve had in years!”

After his first success with it, he asked relatives and friends to try it. They all said it worked, so he patented CopperZap® and put it on the market.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it. 99% said copper worked if they used it right away at the first sign of germs, like a tickle in the nose or a scratchy throat.

Longtime users say they haven’t been sick in years. They have less stress, less medical costs, and more time to enjoy life.

Soon people found other things they could use it against.

Colds Flu

Virus variants

Sinus trouble

Cold sores

Fever blisters

Canker sores

Strep throat

Night stuffiness

Morning congestion

Nasal drip

Infected sores

Infected wounds Styes Warts Ringworm Other microbial threats

The handle is curved and textured to increase contact. Copper can kill germs picked up on fingers and hands after you touch things other people have touched.

The EPA says copper works just as well when tarnished.

Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the science teams. He placed millions of viruses on a copper surface. “They started to die literally as soon as they touched it.”

CopperZap® is made in the USA of pure copper. It has a 90-day full money back guarantee. Price $79.95. Get $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA35

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call toll-free 1-888-411-6114. Buy once, use forever.

Statements are not intended as product health claims and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

New research: Copper kills viruses in seconds.

Dr. Felix Liao, DDS

Publishers John & Trina Voell III

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Heart-Centered Living

February is filled with sweet reminders of love in its many forms such as Valentine’s Day, and the affection we feel for special people in our lives are at the forefront. While taking this time to acknowledge and honor the longstanding, meaningful relationships that continue to nurture us throughout life’s inevitable transformations is important, it is also an opportunity to look within, listen to your heart and consider the role of love in your life.

Loving and being loved is so vital to our health and happiness that we don’t tend to live well without it. When we are feeling so nourished in life, we are better able to be fully present with others and connect on a heart level, rather than just a head level, and love becomes a core motivation for every positive action we undertake.

You might think that listening to and living from the heart would be the most natural and logical attitude, but sadly, this is not the case for many of us due to childhood wounds, conditioning and adult experiences that reinforce those early injuries; few are ready to live a heart-centered life.

If you have an “unhappy heart” and are in a chronic state of stress and discontent, your body’s defense system may be compromised, making you more vulnerable to disease. It is a fact that 90 percent of all illness is ultimately due to stress, because it creates a cascade of physiological responses that affect our hormones and immune system.

The study of psychoneuroimmunology (the interaction between psychology and the nervous and immune systems) shows that emotion and its underlying physical changes in the body are key to understanding the link between a healthy mind and body. Some scientists call the heart a “little brain” because it contains thousands of sensory neurites that actually allow it to send and receive messages. Growing evidence suggests that the organ also contains memories of our experiences and that it even carries its own intelligence. By harmonizing these two vital organs, a practice called heart-brain coherence, we can tap into deep intuition, emotion-based perspectives and enhanced well-being at a core level.

When we focus on our heart center, fear falls away, space opens up within us and solutions to challenges reveal themselves. I have discovered this to be a personal truth. By simply placing my hand over my heart center for a few moments, breathing in feelings of care, gratitude or love for someone or something, I automatically notice a natural shift in my thoughts, feelings and energy.

Our life’s work and passion includes knowing how to use life-force energy in this way wisely and to give it, willingly and skillfully, in such a way that enriches our experiences without burning out. If we can all learn to approach life from a heart-centered place with patience instead of simply reacting when our buttons are pushed, that will be one step in the right direction toward a better world.

This month, we invite you to open your heart and cozy up with this inspiring, lovefilled issue. We send this issue of Natural Awakenings magazine to you with a big hug and wish you and yours a Happy Valentine’s Day!

With Love,

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ~Lao Tzu.

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.

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Personal Coaching in High Demand

Personal transformation coach

Samantha Gutowski, owner of Be Here Now Baby, will conduct a donation-based Traverse City Women’s Circle at Nature retreat center at 6 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. On February 21, the theme is Self-Care and Self-Love. She says, “This women’s circle provides a safe space for women to share their true selves, find their voice, reclaim their power and remind them of their worth, all while having some fun! I help my clients build their self-worth, express themselves authentically and guide and support them to go after and achieve their biggest goals and dreams. I truly believe mindfulness, self-care and personal growth and awareness have the power to heal the world.”

In addition to in-person workshops and sessions in northern Michigan, Mindfulness in the Workplace workshops statewide and worldwide coaching virtually, Gutowski also hosts virtual Body Mindfulness workshops at any time. Gutowski teaches breathwork, practical and attainable mindfulness practices, guided meditation and more, all scientifically based to achieve the best results, plus communication and mindfulness tips to access more joy and happiness in relationships.

Monthly event suggested donation is $10 to $20. Location: 2988 W. Burdickville Rd, Maple City. For more information, call 616-915-1646, email Info@BeHereNowBaby.com or visit BeHereNowBaby.com. See ad page 31.

Eyes Wide Open Conference

The second annual Eyes Wide Open, The Truth is Here conference, hosted by The Embassy of Life Mastery (ELM), will be held March 10 through 12 at the Soaring Eagle Conference Center, in Mt. Pleasant. Attendees will hear from world-renowned leaders in various professions regarding the truth behind what has happened over the past three years. These specially selected speakers were intimately involved in events from different angles and will be presenting documentation and personal experiences that unfold a timeline of unprecedented crimes against humanity.

Attendees will hear from Judy Mikovits, Ph.D., the former director of Antiviral Drug Mechanisms at the National Cancer Institute; Christiane Northrup, M.D., a leading authority in women’s health and wellness; Todd Callender, J.D., the lead plaintiff’s counsel in the federal litigation on compulsory COVID-19 vaccination of U.S. Armed Services

members; Michael McKibben, the inventor of digital social networking; and many more authorities on human rights, nanotechnology, methods of healing and more. Talks will include topics such as A Movement of Awakened Medical Doctors, Hidden Technologies, Rebuilding Our Health and Fertility, and Hope with a Beautiful Vision for the Future.

On Friday, the schedule is from 5 to 9 p.m. and includes refreshments and a group healing sound session with Strong Heart Drum Medicine and Silver Steel Fox. Saturday, events are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed by a healing sound session. Sunday will include speakers from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a world prayer at 5:30. A healthy lunch buffet is included Saturday and Sunday with gluten-free and vegan options.

Local hotel blocks have been reserved for conference guests.

Register online at elmastery.org/eyeswideopen. See ad page 11.

A New Approach to Pain Relief WholeHealth

Traverse City is now offering Trigenics, an effective, drug-free, non-surgical solution to pain and decreased range of motion. It “resets” the nerves within muscles and tendons that control the length and strength of those muscles. This results in muscles that don’t need to be stretched constantly just to keep from feeling achy and tight. The new strength and flexibility is permanent, thanks to the reconnection to the brain, and pain is immediately decreased because pain perception is neurological.

Trigenics myoneural therapy helps restore normal communication between the brain and the knee muscles so the knee moves freely and without abnormal tension and grinding that wears out the joint prematurely. If a knee joint is already suffering with a bone-on-bone condition, Trigenics stimulates the sensory nerves from around the joint to the spinal cord.

Founder Dr. Chris Moran says, “In fact, if we don’t get these expected results immediately within one or possibly two complimentary trial visits, then we simply don’t take the case. This is our unique, personal guarantee to our patients.”

Location: 3639 Cass Rd., Traverse City. For appointments and more information, call 231-943-2100, email Info@WholeHealthTC.org or visit WholeHealthTC.org. See ad page 15.

Make Bagels From Scratch Oryana

Community Co-op, Northern Michigan’s largest and most trusted source for organic and healthy foods, will conduct a workshop, Learn to Make Bagels From Scratch, with instructor Ethan Colyer, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., March 16.

The avid baker and former Oryana bakery team member will sample fresh bagels and teach the basics of how to mix, proof, shape, boil and bake a batch. Each participant will be provided with the start of a

Samantha Gutowski

batch to make at home and a recipe for perfect, homemade bagels..

Oryana Community Co-op, a source for local, organic and natural food, has been owned by its customers since its inception in 1973. They sell produce from regional farms, homemade soups and sandwiches, baked goods and desserts made daily, and a full-service grocery store.

All organic products are in compliance with USDA organic standards for retailing and production. In addition to organic produce, Oryana has the largest selection of locally grown produce in Northern Michigan.

Event location: 3587 Marketplace Cir., Traverse City. Other location: 260 E. Tenth St., Traverse City. For more information, call 231-4862491, email Info@Oryana.coop or visit Oryana.coop.

Traverse City Restaurant Week

Traverse City Restaurant Week will take place from 9 a.m., February 26, to 9 p.m., March 4. From restaurants and breweries to shopping and galleries, there is something for everyone. Guests can try new food and places, while participating restaurants offer a

three-course dinner menu for $25, $35 or $45 per person. Takeout options are available at select locations, and reservations are recommended. Many other local restaurants will create mouthwatering specialties at special prices.

Participating restaurants include The Tasting Room, Nittolo’s Seafood and Pizza, Rare Bird Brewpub, The Cooks House, Reflect Bistro (inside Cambria Hotel & Suites), 7 Monks Taproom, Trattoria Stella, FireFly, Artisan, Harrington’s By The Bay, Sorellina, Slate and McGee’s 72.

For more information, visit DowntownTC.com/traverse-city-restaurant-week.

Coloring Has Therapeutic Benefits

The

East Bay Branch Library will host an Adult Coloring Night from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month. Participants can relax and unwind with an evening of coloring and conversation. Coloring sheets, artist pencils and herbal tea are provided.

Kennith Scott

A BOLD VISION FOR MICHIGAN

to Traverse City and Petoskey from Ann Arbor and Detroit is good for Michigan. A2TC.org

Coloring is a great way to quiet the mind. It can even improve the brain’s ability to function. When we color, both cerebral hemispheres are activated, stimulating creativity. Studies show that focusing on the coloring page can provide stress relief and put the mind into a meditative state when practiced regularly.

Location: 1989 Three Mile Rd., Traverse City. For more information, call 231-922-2085.

Ladies Night Wood Sign Workshop

Recently

opened in December 2022 at 1326 West South Airport Road, in the Cherryland Center, Board & Brush Creative Traverse City offers a wide variety of hands-on, private experiences from workshops, and private parties to bridal showers, bachelorette gatherings, children’s birthday parties, corporate events and fundraisers.

All educational workshops are available for a flat fee and include everything needed to create a beautiful wooden artwork to adorn the walls and gain the skill to do it at home. The next Ladies Night sign workshop will be held from 6 to 9 p.m., February 17.

Participants select a wood project from the gallery and receive step-by-step instruction to create a beautiful piece for the home or a gift. Choose from a variety of paint and wood stain colors in the workshop; all materials are provided and no experience is needed.

Board & Brush works with top graphic designers from all over the country to provide vintage farmhouse designs, and a custom stencil process allows personalization with surname, monogram, the year of a special event or the names of children.

Cost $73, and preregistration is required at 231-649-0283,

TraverseCity@BoardAndBrush.com or BoardAndBrush.com/traversecity.

Learn to Scuba Dive

Scuba

North will conduct a Learn to Dive pool course from 5 to 9 p.m., March 3, and 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., March 4, at the Central YMCA/Easling Pool after first meeting at the store. The pool courses provide inpool training and classroom education; the instructor will work with students to develop the necessary skillset to start diving safely.

BYO scuba-quality mask, fins, snorkel and swim attire/towel; all other scuba equipment is provided. After the pool course is completed, students will move on to open water checkout dives. Classes are limited to six students. Serving Northern Michigan since 1971, Scuba North is a full-service scuba diving center providing training, equipment, fills and expertise.

Cost is $460 plus tax. A deposit of $235 is required to sign up. Store location: 833 S. Garfield Ave., Traverse City. To sign up, call 231-947-2520 or stop in. For more information, email Dive@ ScubaNorth.com or visit ScubaNorth.com.

A Very Special Valentine Dinner

The Cook’s House, a petite, chefowned destination for sustainable fare, is offering their annual five-course Valentine’s Day celebration paired with Mawby sparkling wines from 6 to 9 p.m. They are celebrating 15 years in business.

The restaurant on Wellington Street speaks to the inspired minimalism of farm-to-fork cuisine that has established The Cooks’ House as one of the Midwest’s cultiest eateries. The white, well-lit, 26-seat dining room is hung with modern paintings from local artists, and the restaurant emphasizes a comfortable come-as-you-are approach to enlightened local eating. The Cooks’ House retains a high staff-to-guest ratio, so that diners are never wanting for comfort, and the atmosphere is relaxed and social, with tables trading conversation.

Location: 115 Wellington St., Traverse City. For reservations, call 231946-8700. For more information, visit CooksHouseTC.com.

Bohmey Beauty Now at Warehouse MRKT

Bohmey Beauty, a small, woman-owned store with locations in Adrian and Ann Arbor, has opened a new Traverse City location at 144 Hall Street, in Warehouse MRKT, between Hexenbelle and Handz on Art. The company specializes in clean and conscious products, including clothing, beauty and lifestyle collections.

The clean, green and nontoxic lifestyle retailer offers products made by eco-friendly and sustainable brands. They sell clean makeup, skincare, bath and body products, athleisure clothing, jewelry, candles and gifts from conscious brands like ILIA, Indie Lee, and more.

Angeline Pratt, founder of Bohmey Beauty, says, “We take care to research each product, so you can succeed on your own journey towards a more conscious and ethically minded lifestyle. Our shop reflects both contemporary style and progressive ideals, and we eagerly work with brands who do the same.”

For more info, call 231-421-3584, or email BohmeyBeauty@gmail.com.

Chefs Jennifer Blakeslee and Eric Patterson

Mental Health Benefits of Breastfeeding

Add maternal mental health benefits to the well-documented physical advantages that breastfeeding offers to moms and their infants. A systematic review published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that breastfeeding was associated with overall improved maternal mental health outcomes. A majority of the studies concluded that breastfeeding was connected to fewer mental health symptoms. Thirty-six of the 55 articles reported significant relationships between breastfeeding and reduced symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety. Notably, when breastfeeding challenges arose or when the actual experience of breastfeeding didn’t meet expectations, five studies reported negative mental health symptoms.

The researchers suggest that breastfeeding may have protective effects on mental health due to the release of oxytocin—also known as the love hormone—which is associated with decreased maternal stress levels and anxiety. This suggests that breastfeeding may have immediate, short-term effects on maternal mood. Further research is needed to help provide better personalized breastfeeding and mental health counseling to moms.

Zinc for Colds and Flu

A study published in BMJ Open evaluated the use of zinc for the prevention or treatment of acute viral respiratory tract infections (RTI) in adults. As a treatment for colds and flu, zinc reduced symptoms by two days, compared to the placebo. The researchers surmised that of 100 people with upper respiratory infections, 19 of them recovered by day seven as a result of the zinc treatment. Symptom severity appeared to be lower for those treated with zinc—with improvements seen by day three. Those taking zinc experienced an 87 percent lower risk of developing severe symptoms.

In terms of the prevention of colds and flu-like illness, taking zinc was found to have a modest effect compared to the placebo, with one out of 20 infections prevented. Preventive effects were most significant in reducing severe symptoms. Overall, there was evidence suggesting zinc might prevent RTI symptoms and shorten its duration. Researchers were unable to clearly ascertain the efficacy of different dosages and delivery (oral or nasal spray).

Chiropractic for Pregnancy

Prenatal chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the alignment of the spine and pelvis in pregnant women. It is believed that misalignments in these areas can cause discomfort and other pregnancy-related issues. Correcting these misalignments may provide relief and improve overall pregnancy outcomes.

There is evidence to support the use of chiropractic care during pregnancy. One study found that chiropractic care was associated with a reduced need for pain medication,

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as well as shorter labor times and fewer complications during delivery. Other research suggests that chiropractic care may help to alleviate common pregnancy discomforts such as back pain and headaches.

Prenatal chiropractic care typically involves gentle adjustments known as the Webster Technique to improve the alignment and function of the spine and pelvis. A chiropractor trained in the Webster Technique does not correct or provide treatment for fetal malposition or uterine constraint, but helps to optimize the overall function of the nervous system. Continued chiropractic care after the baby is born is also helpful as the mother’s body continues to change. Babies can also respond very well to light touch chiropractic care.

In addition to chiropractic adjustments, some prenatal chiropractors may also recommend exercise or other

forms of therapy to support the health and well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. These may include stretches, massage or other techniques designed to improve posture, reduce muscle tension and promote overall comfort during pregnancy.

The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association publishes research on chiropractic care for pregnant women and a host of pediatric conditions. More than 50 percent of pregnant women experience low back pain, and research shows that chiropractors have helped more than 70 percent of these women while comanaging these patients with their medical doctors.

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and experienced chiropractor. However, as with any form of medical treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting chiropractic care to ensure that it is appropriate for a woman’s individual needs and circumstances.

Dr. Ramona Pleva is certified in the Webster Technique. She is the owner of Northern Lights Chiropractic, PLLC, located at 510 Depot View Dr., Unit 13, in Traverse City. For appointments and more information, call 231-6685050 or visit RamonaPlevaDC.com. See ad page 9.

Explore, Grow, Heal and Learn at The Embassy of Life Mastery

Education in Self-Growth, Sustainability, Community Building and Planetary Change

“About half of the students attending are not enrolled in a program; rather, they are there to take individual classes for continuing education credits, personal growth, improved skills or to explore topics of interest,” she explains. For those that choose to enroll in the life mastery program, the first level is all about developing themselves through an individualized experience that includes an accountability team that helps stretch limitations, feel encouraged and supported, and hold a larger perspective of self-image. Baker says that the first level of development is more about what ELM can “undo for a student, rather than what we can do for you. People carry a number of beliefs about themselves that serve no purpose. The first level is really about lightening the load, letting go of the luggage.”

As a student begins to let go of whatever is holding them back, they begin to work toward their fullest potential and how they can get more out of life. “How do I maintain my temple, how do I get healthy beyond my physical body, how do I get healthy mentally, emotionally, spiritually?

by Julie Peterson

The nonprofit Embassy of Life Mastery (ELM), in Mt. Pleasant, was created in 2019 to educate the public about self-growth, sustainability, community building and planetary change. It was cofounded by Board President Bessheen Baker, ND, who continues her work on the faculty of the Naturopathic Institute of Therapies and Education, which she founded in 1995, downtown.

“After owning the Naturopathic Institute, there was a desire to expand into a nonprofit that would offer education to anyone, not just those who are interested in going to school for a profession,” says Baker. She and two other cofounders created the concept of a life mastery school where anyone can take individual classes or join programs for more comprehensive study. The location chosen for ELM is a renovated old stone church that was turned into Explore, Grow, Heal and Learn at The

Embassy of Life Mastery, a naturopathic community center and library, 20 years ago. Across the road is a sustainable organic ranch where students train in permaculture, herbology, sustainability, wilderness skills, off-grid living and sacred geometry.

“The old church is a very peaceful place out in the country,” notes Baker. “We chose it for its location, simpleness and beauty.” ELM classes are held on weekends in the library of the church. With 13 departments, classes are taught by a consistent group of guest speakers, along with world-respected instructors in artisanship, caregiving, consciousness development, energy mechanics, communicative arts, spiritual agriculture, ego mastery, cosmology, plant wisdom departments and more. Within each department, three introductory classes are offered to explore the ideas, and dozens more delve deeper and add breadth to the topics.

One of my teachers told me that if the truth that is your reality isn’t setting you free then it’s time to reassess your truth,” advises Baker, explaining that sometimes we don’t see anything that feels like it is holding us back until we start asking, “Does that make me feel free or does it not?” Ultimately, ELM is designed for those seeking a personalized transformative experience to cultivate physical, mental and spiritual growth that will culminate in self-mastery.

Through the process, students learn to harmonize the knowledge, wisdom and understanding necessary to steward community and planetary healing. “The most important part about the classes and courses at ELM is that if we don’t like the planet the way it is, then we have to change ourselves and our community and that comes from healing ourselves first,” shares Baker.

The Embassy of Life Mastery is located at 5410 S. Vandecar Rd., Mt. Pleasant. For more information, email Contact@ELMastery.org or visit ELMastery.org. See ad page 11.

Julie Julie Peterson writes about health and environmental issues. Contact her at JuliePeterson 2222@gmail.com.

The EMF Hazards Summit 2023: Electromagnetic Radiation Protection Event

The EMF Hazards Summit 2023 is a chance to learn everything there is to know about EMF radiation and get access to proven solutions for protecting our health and that of our loved ones. The virtual event is free and will go live from February 2 to 5.

There are four main advantages to attending the summit. No substitute exists for high-quality educational resources that can allow us to connect with renowned EMF experts on one stage. The summit will bring together 18 health experts, world-class scientists, researchers and doctors. Don’t waste countless hours researching EMF dangers and solutions instead of learning directly from experts from the comfort of your home or office. Attendees of this summit can skip the urge to attend in-person seminars by following the proceedings online using a virtual education platform.

Everyone attending the summit will hear shocking discoveries from health experts, doctors and the world’s leading scientists related to this matter. Host Nicolas Penault, “The EMF Guy”, is the author of one of the most sought-after books on the subject of EMFs and their impact on human health. His book takes readers through what to expect from EMFs. Penault has spent the last few years advocating for the safe use of technologies and raising awareness of the problems posed by EMFs. He has made more than 100 podcasts and appeared on TV shows worldwide.

Expert panelists include Dr. Marco Ruggiero on Electro-Pollution Disrupts Your Microbiome: The Scientific Proof; Dr. Beverly Rubik on EMFs & the Human Biofield; Suzie Senk on Reducing EMFs & Other Sleep “Hacks”; Debora Wayne on Energy Healing: Optimizing Your “Inner EMFs”; and others.

Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) refer to invisible forms of energy called radiation. These fields are typically linked to the use of electrical power and other forms of artificial and electrical lighting. EMFs have become widespread in society, and these are some of the reasons why we should be worried about overexposure:

It’s confirmed that they can increase the risk of cancer: Leading scientists are today arguing that there’s a need to reclassify EMFs in the Class 1 carcinogenic group with tobacco and asbestos.

Daily exposure to EMF has been linked to fatigue, headaches, brain fog, depression, memory loss, light sensitivity, skin problems, heart palpitations and other mystery symptoms. EMFs are master toxins and could aggravate other toxins we’re already exposed to: Wireless energy operates in collaboration with other chemicals that we could have become exposed to and may potentially amplify their toxicity.

Admission is free. For more information, call 231-714-0477 or visit EMFHazards.com.

Protecting Families from Hazardous Radiation

Good Waves EMF Investigator began after founder Rachel Cara had been asked to measure radio frequency levels at various people's homes. After having been affected by wireless radiation herself, Cara became involved in advocacy work on the subject. She also studied with building biologists and investigators around the U.S. over the past eight years.

Cara says, “We are the only ones offering EMF home surveys based in Northern Michigan. Our services are also more economical than those based downstate and in most major cities. We strive to help all, and instead of just having a credentialed engineer measure RF levels, we also have an investigator who has firsthand experience, having officially had electro-hyper sensitivity since the 4G and smart meter rollout.”

Good Waves EMF Investigator provides individualized consultations to establish what is affecting a person or household beyond the obvious Wi-Fi and phones. The lead investigator has a background in nutrition, with a lifelong history of environmental allergies as a barometer for measuring the effects, in addition to the EMF meters used. Towers are the biggest culprit and most difficult to avoid. Now with 5G frequencies, more people are being affected. Once the source is identified, they can offer various solutions.

For more information, call 231-714-0477 or visit EMFInvestigator.com. See ad page 25.

Vacations and Events Infused with Cannabis

Torch Cannabis Co, a 100 percent woman-owned company, makes whole-plant cannabis oil with customized formulations to help with sleep, weight loss, anxiety relief and more. They also educate consumers to maximize their opportunity for achieving individual wellness goals. Torch is launching a new product line geared toward specific health goals that will be available in both tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinol (CBD) formulations targeting trace cannabinoids combined with other natural ingredients.

CEO Kelly Young says, “I have brought to market cooking oils that are both sativa, hybrid and indica, offering the consumer the empowerment to begin infusing their own foods. These products are offering consumers a take-and-bake brownie kit or homemade Potcorn recipe ready to pop, in addition to booster shots that can be added to other butters or oils enabling the customer to dial-in their health with their dosing and dietary needs.”

Torch Cannabis also offers accommodations at a 12-acre natural retreat center in Northern Michigan and can host events

and private parties anywhere in the state.

Torch will make custom formulations for an event based on the host’s request. Young says, “We hope to become the wellness retreat destination to help people come to a safe, all-natural wellness community that provides several different types of holistic healing services. We also can help with the party planning to create the effect that the host desires for their event.”

Young has been an ordained minister since 2011, facilitating weddings and funerals. “Over the past five years as I’ve been building my cannabis businesses, I’ve always had a goal to further deepen the scope of cannabis becoming normalized safely within our communities. I am excited to launch this new layer of products and services to help people achieve feeling their best,” she shares.

Torch is offering retreat-like accommodations this summer in Northern Michigan, as well as hosting educational events and concierge services for all things health and wellness-related in addition to private party and events plannings. “We have a portfolio of different healers that can be scheduled for spa services. Torch

Lake is known as the third-most beautiful fresh water lake in the world, and guests can request arrangements for day trips boating or swimming in Torch Lake, kayaking and enjoying Northern Michigan in the holistic care of cannabis and shared community.”

Torch Cannabis Co is located at 7957 State St., in Central Lake. To discuss a catered event or book accommodations for a summertime natural retreat in Northern Michigan, call Young at 231-495-9885, email Kelly@TorchCannabisCo.com or visit TorchCannabisCo.com. See ad page 28.

Kelly Young

Deciphering Egg Carton Labels

Although this method of egg production is considered to be more humane than the longtime standard of battery cages, some cage-free farms may restrict outdoor grazing, and their hens’ nutrition may not be as good as that of hens allowed outside.

FREE-RANGE

always available. Having access to the outdoors year-round means they must also have access to a barn for protection from predators. Pasture-raised (and organic eggs described below) often have darker, yellower yolks and contain less cholesterol, which may be due to the continuous access to live vegetation and because they have more omega-3 fatty acids.

ORGANIC

There are many egg choices in the grocery store with different labels—cage-free, free-range, pasture-raised, organic. Here is what these terms mean.

CAGE-FREE

Cage-free eggs are defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as eggs laid by hens that are able to roam vertically and horizontally in indoor spaces while having access to fresh food and water.

Free-range hens follow the same rules as cage-free, with the added requirement of having access to the outdoors during their laying cycle. How much time the hens are permitted to spend outside is open to interpretation, although some animal welfare groups define it as at least six hours per day of outdoor access with at least two square feet of outdoor space per bird.

PASTURE-RAISED

This term isn’t defined by the USDA, but if eggs come with a third-party animal welfare certification seal, more robust standards of care have been applied. Certified Humane and American Humane Certified both expect pasture-raised, egg-laying hens to have at least 108 square feet of pasture with live vegetation, and for those fields to be rotated so that fresh vegetation is

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Organic egg-laying hens must be provided with 100 percent organic feed without the use of pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers. They must also be able to graze outside for at least 120 days per year and are given antibiotics only in the event of an infection.

ADDITIONAL TERMS

Local or locally produced eggs must originate less than 400 miles from the processing facility or within the state the eggs originated from and were processed in.

Vegetarian fed ensures that no animal byproducts were used to feed the hens. Grass fed is not defined by the USDA. No hormones is a misleading term, as the USDA has banned the use of hormones, and all eggs are hormone-free.

A New Chapter— Nexus for Consciousness, Healing and Hope

by Brooke Goode

In 1994, the same year Jeff Bezos founded Amazon and Deepak Chopra laid the first bricks on his path to enlightenment, Sharon Bruckman created Natural Awakenings magazine. Each a visionary. Each ahead of their time.

By the late 1990s Americans had developed a voracious appetite for well-researched, practical information about the latest natural approaches to nutrition, fitness, personal growth and sustainable living. The Natural Awakenings franchise was born, expanding into the largest franchise publishing network in the health and wellness industry.

As the magazine’s 25th anniversary issue, published in 2019, explained, Natural Awakenings was woven from the threads of grit, inspiration and serendipity, creating a tapestry of health, healing and mindfulness. In an interview appearing in that issue, Bruckman clarified her purpose, saying, “The why that has been keeping me ‘on purpose’ can be found in the same mission statement that inspired me to create Natural Awakenings: to inspire and empower people to awaken to their highest potential, so together we can create a world that works for all living things.”

The world’s delicate ecosystem, now in crisis, was also in need of help. “The critical issues we now address in Natural Awakenings—like genetically modified foods and climate change—were just emerging in serious public discourse then, but have since grown in urgency,” Bruckman said. “The good news is that in the past 25 years, viable solutions in renewable technologies, organic farming methods and holistic healthcare practices have made great strides; now they just have to be implemented on grander scale.”

Shortly after the 25th anniversary issue was published, Joe Dunne, Natural Awakenings ’ COO, had a serendipitous meeting with Kimberly Whittle, founder and CEO of KnoWEwell. One conversation later, he was certain that Whittle and Bruckman should meet,

given their shared vision and mission. Dunne describes KnoWEwell’s online Regenerative Whole Health Hub as “WebMD, NEJM [New England Journal of Medicine], Match.com, Home Advisor, LinkedIn, Facebook, Amazon, Quora, Medium and Apple News all rolled into one for health.” A week later, Whittle was on a plane to Florida to visit Bruckman at her home. It was the start of a providential relationship between two visionaries determined to bring natural healing, health and hope to individuals and families.

A decade earlier, in 2009, Whittle was driven by a series of family health crises to embark on a search for solutions. Deep diving into evidence-based research, she traveled the country to multiple integrative and functional medicine practitioner conferences. “I was blessed to find tremendous success in the prevention and healing of chronic conditions through what today is defined as Regenerative Whole Health, a broad spectrum of global healing approaches and therapies that consider the whole person—mind, body and spirit— connecting the dots between soil, food, lifestyle choices, planet and personal health to help prevent and address the root causes of chronic diseases,” she explains. “I began as a mom on a mission. As I grew into my family’s healer, and then a health and well-being resource for my friends, I felt a deep yearning to go beyond my community and help more people.”

Combining her entrepreneurial spirit, professional experiences, passion and purpose, Whittle formed KnoWEwell as a force for good in the world, to pay it forward and make it easier for others facing their own health crises, and to pay it back to the professional organizations and providers that helped her family heal. Much like Natural Awakenings, KnoWEwell’s mission is to transform health care by inspiring and empowering individuals with the knowledge, resources and community to proactively prevent harm, address chronic diseases and create “WELLthier Living” for themselves, their

families, humanity and the planet.

Last December, KnoWEwell acquired Natural Awakenings, creating an integrated ecosystem that is committed to community, spanning the information gaps, providing immersive multimedia educational experiences and fostering trusted connections locally and globally. Together, these two companies are set to be the solution for consciousness, healing and hope.

A World in Crisis Needs Our Collective Help

Individually and collectively, we are facing unprecedented challenges. Human and planetary health are in crisis, and they are inextricably linked. According to the World Health Organization, climate change is the biggest global health threat confronting humanity.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that 33 percent of the Earth’s soils are already degraded, and more than 90 percent could become degraded by 2050. Soil erosion decreases agriculture productivity and contributes to a host of environmental threats. It can take up to 1,000 years to produce just two to three centimeters of soil.

While gene-edited crops are being promoted by the world’s largest chemical companies as “giving mother nature a boost,” Jeffrey Smith, founder of the Institute for Responsible Technology, warns, “With gene editing techniques, such as CRISPR, nature could be permanently corrupted by countless GMOs, and our food supply—including organic—could be overrun.”

Meanwhile, six in 10 adults and more than half of all children have a chronic health condition. The problem, Whittle believes, is that while our conventional medical system excels at acute care for an injury or a heart attack, it was never designed to treat chronic conditions, focusing more on the symptoms than the root cause of disease. Studies show there is a roughly 17-year lag between new research and mainstream health and medicine practices.

Hope for People and Planet

Evidence-based research is proving that while our DNA may be our ancestry, it is not necessarily our destiny. According to Dr. Jeffrey Bland, the father of functional medicine, “Our gene expression is altered by numerous influences including environment, lifestyle, diet, activity patterns, psycho-social-spiritual factors and stress. These lifestyle choices and environmental exposures can push us toward (or away from) disease by turning on—or off—certain genes.” Ninety percent of the risks of chronic disease are due to non-genetic factors, and with the right knowledge and resources, individuals can change their lifestyle and environment to prevent and reverse chronic health conditions.

Rodale Institute, a leader in organic farming education and re-

search, points to the importance of farming methods in addressing the health and planet crises. According to the organization, “Hope is right below our feet. Healthier soil grows healthier plants, and healthier plants are more nutritious plants. In our work at Rodale Institute, we’re investigating the links between soil health and human health and proving that organic [farming] can feed the world.”

Research by Rodale Institute has confirmed that adoption of regenerative organic farming practices could capture more than 100 percent of current, human-caused emissions of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Rodale Institute researchers concluded, “We now know enough to have real hope, and with this hope comes the responsibility to journey down a new path.”

Millennials are leading the way on conscious living, flocking to integrative options and opting for more “natural” care, long advocated by Natural Awakenings. They now constitute the largest sector of the U.S. workforce with annual spending power of $600 billion. Close to 60 percent of millennials research information about health and nutrition online and on social media. This health-conscious generation believes good health is both a personal and social responsibility. They are early adopters of wearable technology and prefer organically grown, locally sourced and ethically raised foods. But consumers of all ages are overwhelmed by information and unverified online sources in the fragmented whole health market.

Looking Forward

The World Economic Forum reported in 2021 that health care is undergoing a digital revolution that requires multi-stakeholder collaboration and the bridging of information gaps by fusing the digital and analog worlds. The 2017 industry white paper “The Rise of Wellcare”, by PricewaterhouseCoopers, concluded that integrated ecosystems for the consumer in the healthcare industry are essential. This paradigm would include products, services, social media, community and environmental activism.

The good news is that the local Natural Awakenings print magazines, together with KnoWEwell's Regenerative Whole Health Hub, a global digital ecosystem, are forging the paradigm shift. Whittle is honored to be continuing Bruckman’s legacy. “We are kindred spirits; I have the same purpose and unwavering drive that Sharon had founding Natural Awakenings nearly 30 years ago. I am deeply committed to multi-stakeholder collaboration that benefits all—our families, communities and the planet. We will educate to bring consciousness of connections into daily practices and respect for Mother Earth so all can thrive and prosper. Together, we will inspire, empower and achieve a WELLthier Living World.”

Brooke Goode is KnoWEwell’s national editor.

Improving Heart Health

Lifestyle Metrics That Can Help Prevent Heart Disease

by Sheila Julson

Diet and exercise are often cited for preventing cardiovascular disease, but a deeper dive shows that other factors such as sleep, stress management and proper screenings are just as important.

Get Enough Sleep

Dr. Randi Foraker is a professor of medicine at the Division of General Medical Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL), and the deputy director of their Institute for Informatics. She co-authored the American Heart Association (AHA) Life’s Essential 8, a prescription of eight lifestyle metrics for cardiovascular health. They include modifiable risk factors such as diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, sleep duration, body mass index, blood lipids, blood glucose and blood pressure.

Last June, the AHA added sleep to their lifestyle recommendations. “Poor sleep has been something we have suspected as a contributor to cardiovascular health for some time,” Foraker says. “Sleep has been identified recently as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases. Interrupted sleep is a problem because our body isn’t able to rebuild and recharge if we don’t have adequate sleep. That’s a recent finding, and the evidence around that is building.”

Research into how sleep patterns affect heart health is ongoing. Experts are looking at when people are sleeping, and if it’s broken into three-or-four-hour increments. The demands of each occupation may lead to sleeping during the day instead of at night, or broken sleep that does not always lead to a total of eight hours of sleep.

Stress Management

“Not managing stress well can be linked to insulin resistance, gut issues, high blood pressure and inflammation, which directly contribute to heart disease,” says Charlotte Nussbaum, M.D., a functional medicine practitioner in Medford, New Jersey. “That’s a lifestyle factor that people need to address, and it can be the hardest one to address. Even if you’re dialed into a healthy diet and exercise routines, you’re not going to keep yourself healthy if you have unresolved stress issues.”

Nussbaum notes that unaddressed childhood traumas can lead to unhealthy stress management techniques and encourages people to consult with a therapist or other practitioner to work through childhood traumas to identify and eliminate the stressor. If a job is causing stress, we can’t always change jobs, but using techniques such as yoga, meditation and mindfulness can help. She also

recommends bodywork and movement, breathing techniques, biofeedback and going into nature as effective stress-relieving techniques.

Foraker notes that the Life’s Essential 8 framework has specifically called out mental and social determinants of health because these underlying factors can be barriers to achieving ideal cardiovascular wellness. “Mental health can impact de- pression and be a proxy for nicotine addiction and poor diet,” she says.

Social determinants may include living in a food desert without access to healthy foods. Some people may not be able to achieve physical fitness because they live in a high-crime area, preventing them from being active outdoors. “Social determinants of health are often cost-prohibitive to achieving health goals,” Foraker advises.

Nationwide, nonprofits such as The Food Trust are helping to bring nutritious food to low-income communities. The National Youth Sports Strategy, an initiative of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, strives to expand children’s participation in youth sports and encourage regular physical activity.

Looking Beyond Cholesterol

Nussbaum observes that while much attention is placed on lowering fat and

cholesterol for a healthier heart, what is more important is choosing fats that don’t oxidize easily. When low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is oxidized, it can lead to atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque on the artery walls.

“Seed oils like canola oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil or corn oil have been promoted as heart healthy, but those are very easily oxidized because they contain linoleic acid, an inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid that can contribute to heart disease,” Nussbaum says. “While omega-6 is an essential fatty acid, we only need a small amount in our diets. Our modern diet has become very high in omega-6.”

Nussbaum advises increasing omega-3 intake to balance the omega-3s/omega-6 ratio. Cold water and fatty fish that are low in mercury such as salmon and shellfish are good sources of omega-3s. For those that don’t eat seafood, marine algae provide omega-3s.

Polyphenols are plant-based foods that boost heart health and immunity. Polyphenol-rich examples include green tea, citrus fruits, hibiscus tea and turmeric. Nussbaum adds that organ meats like liver are high in antioxidants retinol and vitamin A.

Red meat has gotten a bad reputation, but Nussbaum notes how meat is sourced makes a difference. The nutri-

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tional quality of a fast-food burger is much different than a cut of beef from grass-fed cows that are sustainably raised; the latter has a very different nutrition profile, along with omega-3s.

Nussbaum cautions that consuming a low-fat diet alone may not lower risk of heart disease, because many low-fat diets substitute fat with carbohydrates, which can lead to obesity and insulin resistance— both risk factors for heart disease.

Less Exercise Can Be More

It can be intimidating to start a workout regimen, especially if time is limited. “What’s more important is not being sedentary and finding ways to keep moving,” Nussbaum says. “Even if you have a desk job, there are ways to incorporate short bursts of movement into your day. Walking can be helpful.”

She notes that high-intensity interval training—short bursts of intense exercise alternated with low-intensity recovery periods—can be effective for those with limited time. “Some of those workouts are only five to 10 minutes long, but can have just as much benefit as a 90-minute cardiovascular workout.”

Screenings and Advanced Testing Detect Underlying Issues

Dr. Yale R. Smith, a Florida physician who is triple board-certified and an advanced fellow in anti-aging metabolic and functional medicine, says, “There are millions of people walking around with severe cardiac disease that do not even know it, because heart attacks and death from an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) can kill someone without warning, Thus, preventing such an event with specialized testing can allow people to live long lives with loved ones.”

Smith emphasizes the importance of a complete lipid profile. “I see many patients that come to me with incomplete lipid profiles,” he notes. They do not include sensitive biomarkers that go beyond just total cholesterol, LDL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides. There’s a misconception that if one’s cholesterol is within normal range, they need not worry about

heart disease.

“But someone could have unstable plaque just waiting to burst in a coronary artery that kills the patient,” Smith explains. “When an unstable plaque ruptures in a major vessel, the body senses it as bleeding and sends clotting factors to stop the bleeding, thus creating the heart attack and death. We can look for this with cutting-edge testing.”

Such testing includes Cleerly, which uses artificial intelligence to look within the coronary arteries. It provides actual visualization of the patient’s vessels and pinpoints locations of stenotic lesions, total plaque volume and unstable plaque locations. “This is revolutionary, and allows me to provide vital information to the patient and the interventional cardiologist before catheterization,” Smith says.

The protein unstable lesion signature test looks for cellular markers for high-risk patients and determines risk for plaque rupture. The vibrant health cardiaX allows doctors to look at 22 different genes that can contribute to heart disease issues.

“Family history is a look into the future of your chance of developing heart diseases,” Smith shares. “The genetics of a patient’s family is quite important, and genes can jump a generation. Thus, the patient could have their grandfather’s or grandmother’s genes that can put them at risk and lead to an early death.”

There are natural ways to control and reverse heart disease, Smith points out, but he cautions against over-the-counter, unregulated supplements marketed for improving heart health. A comprehensive workup and cardiovascular health plan should be monitored by a qualified medical doctor.

“Meditation and massage are beneficial to lower stress,” Smith recommends. “Stress and high cortisol levels create a pathway to heart disease, elevated blood pressure and other issues. Thus, anything that can lower stress and create a happy lifestyle will help with heart health.”

For more information, visit Tinyurl. com/55nuk9dm Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings

Love in the Present Moment

Mindfulness for Couples

by Marlaina Donato

Jam-packed schedules and answering the demands of everyday life can trip us up and break the spell of even the most solid intimate partnership. With dulled senses, it is easy and all too common to go on autopilot. Like abandoned gardens, heart-unions can become casualties of neglect and the absence of joy.

Mindfulness—awareness and cultivation of the present moment—has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety and depression and deepen our appreciation of what we have. Relationships can expand and strengthen when couples practice the art of being in the “now”. A 2021 study involving 1,360 heterosexual couples published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy indicates that gratitude and forgiveness also contribute to satisfaction, both relational and sexual.

Conscious Hearts

“Mindfulness practice comes in many forms: journaling, meditation, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, tai chi or breathwork, to name just a few. By routinely practicing mindfulness, we are able to deepen our own awareness of what we are feeling and how we want to respond to someone we care about,” explains Moraya Seeger DeGeare, in-house relationship expert for Paired, an app for couples.

Maci Daye, the author of Passion and Presence: A Couple’s Guide to Awakened Intimacy and Mindful Sex says, “Even a few minutes a day of mindfulness practice can rewire the brain, build new habits and help us dis-identify from our limiting beliefs, stories and intense emotions.” This is a critical factor in transcending personal triggers and promoting conflict resolution. She

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emphasizes that couples often go into fight-or-flight mode because they feel threatened by their partner’s non-verbal behavior or are triggered by old, painful wounds.

Daye, a licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist, notes, “Mindful couples are less attached to being ‘right’ and explore their own sensitivities instead of blaming their partners.” Once “awakened intimacy” is put into practice, couples become interested in each other’s perspectives and team up to heal and grow. In addition to formal training, she suggests bringing presence to all aspects of life. “Couples can engage their senses when they hug, touch or hold hands,” Daye explains. “They can pause to look at each other when they say hello and goodbye. They can slow down and taste their food, savoring every bite. These behaviors also make sexual experiences more sensual, intimate and connecting.”

Taking a few moments for eye contact, the brush of a hand or compassionate interaction can strengthen bonds. DeGeare, who is also a couple’s therapist at BFF Therapy, in Beacon, New York, recommends slowing down together to get in sync. “This could be going for a walk, cooking or listening to the same podcast and talking about it later. It helps the body tune into your partner a bit and connect. The time you spend doing this outside of the bedroom will deepen your connection in the bedroom.” She suggests bringing movement like a shared dance or yoga class into the mix to foster connection, as well as setting “dedicated times to check in through the week or month, uninterrupted.”

A Deeper Dive

Daily verbal exchanges beyond the mundane can amplify resonance between two people. “Asking questions is vitally important, as it cultivates curiosity—but not the day-to-day questions, such as, ‘What are you doing today’ or ‘What do you want for dinner?’” says Debbie Lambert, co-author of The Mindful Couple. The Del Mar, California, couples counselor and life coach encourages people to ask, “What scares you today? What is the most important thing that you would like to create today? What was one thing that made you grateful today, and what is one thing that disappointed or frustrated you today? What is one thing I can do for you today? These types of questions scrape the surface of knowing and create intimacy and connection.”

Lambert compares the practice of mindfulness to a beautiful dance—flowing, loving and creative—that can change future generations. “The energy from such a dance extends far beyond the couple,” she says. “It can be felt intimately by anyone in its presence. When parents dance this dance, their children are bathed in a high-vibrating energy. They feel safe and loved. Most importantly, they learn a model for how to be in a loving relationship.”

Marlaina Donato is an author, visionary painter and recording artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

MINDFUL TIPS FOR DEEPER SEXUAL INTIMACY

FROM

DEBBIE LAMBERT

Couples get too familiar with each other over time, and the wonder and curiosity leave the bedroom. To deepen the sexual experience, couples can:

n Shift from knowing to curiosity. Ask yourself, “What does my partner need in this moment?” Be in tune with subtle movements and embrace them in the moment, versus thinking this is what my partner likes.

n They say the eyes are the windows to the soul. Eye-gazing in bed is a deeply spiritual activity that allows us to connect beyond our normal experiences with each other.

n Smile, laugh and embrace the moment with some lightness. When we smile and laugh, we are out of our heads and into our hearts. This is where we want to spend more time in general.

FROM MACI DAYE

While most couples think they must do more to experience novelty, the best sex results from simply being there and tuning into bodily sensations. Knowing this relieves couples that are exhausted and pressured by the demands of modern life, which have been exceptional lately. They may avoid sex because they fear they must “go all the way”. However, if we are fully present, we can have magical, erotic experiences that are brief and don’t necessarily involve the genitals.

DIRECTIONS Bring water to a boil in medium saucepan over high heat along with tea bags, cinnamon stick, star anise, cardamom seeds, ginger and black peppercorns. Boil for 5 minutes, until tea is dark, and liquid has reduced to 2 cups.

Strain through fine mesh strainer, and return to medium-low heat. Stir in sugar and honey until dissolved, and add milk. Heat through, stirring occasionally, until hot.

As guardians of our beloved pets, choosing the best food for them can be a daunting task, with so many options online and in grocery stores, as well as conflicting advice about what is healthiest. For thousands of years, pets were fed human food scraps, and in the last 50 years, as dogs were elevated from being pets to valued members of the family, handing them treats directly from the dinner table became a common practice.

Nevertheless, commercial pet food has become an enormous industry in a relatively short period of time—it has only been around for just over 150 years, according to the Pet Food Institute. Globally, the pet food market was valued at almost $95 billion in 2021 and is expected to continue growing, according to Grand View

Whole Foods for Dogs and Cats

HUMAN-GRADE MEALS FOR OUR FURRY BEST FRIENDS

by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

Research. North America dominated the market, accounting for a 49.9 percent share of worldwide revenue that year.

The immense popularity of commercial pet food can be attributed to numerous reasons. Socioeconomic factors make buying processed pet food affordable; nutritional science makes it look sophisticated; veterinarians endorse it and marketing agencies persuade guardians that it is the best option. Many pet guardians may be concerned that table scraps are not as healthy for their pet as kibble. As a result, most dogs and cats consume commercial diets, many of which include byproducts from the human food industry.

Kelly Swanson, a University of Illinois professor and the author of a 2018 nutrition study published in the Journal of

Animal Science, told Science Daily, “A lot of companies test for complete and balanced nutrition but don’t go beyond that.” She further noted that her study evaluated certain diets by looking at additional factors: “Would dogs like them? Were they digestible? Would they increase activity?”

Leveling Up a Pet’s Diet

Because they are unprocessed and unrefined, pet diets made of whole foods contain more intact nutrients and provide more fiber for digestive health, which can help with constipation, diarrhea or both. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Animal Science, some types of fresh, “human-grade” food may be simpler for pets to digest than dry, commercial kibble.

A recent study examined the gut microbiome of pet and stray dogs from South Africa, India and Loas and compared their gut microbiomes to those of dogs that lived 1,000 years ago. The researchers found that the varied diet of the stray dogs of Loas had the most robust microbiome and that it was comparable to the diet consumed by ancient dogs. Like in humans, a healthy and balanced gut microbiome is important for digestion and to fight inflammation. While there are some foods that pets should avoid, such as alcohol, dairy, chocolate and grapes, many types of meat and vegetables that humans eat can be served to their pets. Because whole-food ingredients like chicken, pork, lamb, beef and chicken eggs are readily available at local grocery stores, it’s easy to get started. The key is ensuring that a pet gets a balance of protein, fat and carbohydrates. There are plenty of homemade pet food recipes available online that consider this balance. The needs of a pet will vary based on species, age, weight and overall health, so consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to keep the pet’s health on track.

Tips for Homemade Pet Food Success

n If it is in the budget, choose grass-fed or pasture-raised meats, which have a healthy omega-3 to omega-6 ratio and are anti-inflammatory.

n The diet should include calcium, iron, zinc and other essential nutrients based on species and individual needs. Consult a veterinarian for guidance.

n Although dogs do not require carbohydrates in their diet, they can digest them. Dogs use dietary carbohydrates to maintain and replace glycogen levels.

n Introducing vegetable fiber—kale, collard greens and fruit such as apples—to a dog’s digestive system helps prevent gas pain.

n Obtain ingredients from organic sources whenever possible, because they contain no pesticides or chemicals that could harm a pet’s health.

n Avoid processed foods and artificial ingredients.

n Look for pet foods without preservatives, byproducts, fillers or food dyes.

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (aafco.org/ consumers) offers a wealth of information and guidance regarding commercial pet foods and ingredients. While they do not have a whole foods classification, they do provide information about natural and organic pet foods.

Feeding pets whole food is a great way to help them stay healthy and happy. Make their food at home using fresh ingredients, or look for commercial brands that incorporate whole foods in their products. A pet’s best health starts in the bowl.

Dr. Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

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The is often THE MOST AFFECTED organ! Exposure to EMFs induced pain or pressure in the chest area, heart palpitations and/or an irregular heartbeat. Symptoms may resemble or contribute to a Heart Attack.

Nourish the Heart

Foods that Promote Cardiac Healing

by Steven Masley, M.D., FAHA, FACN, CNS

The right food choices don’t just prevent heart disease and help shrink artery plaque, they also nourish and heal the heart. For a healthy ticker, enjoy these five food groups every day.

Fabulous Fiber

Fiber is the roughage in vegetables, fruits, beans and nuts, and it is loaded with age-busting nutrients. Eating fiber suppresses appetite, promotes weight loss, improves blood sugar and cholesterol levels, decreases inflammation and feeds a healthy gut microbiome.

The challenge is to get more fiber every day. Too often, people consume fiber from

processed grains and flour, and the sugar load that comes with grain fiber has many adverse impacts on heart health. The best option is to enjoy daily fiber from the following sources: three cups of colorful vegetables; two pieces of fruit, such as one cup of berries and one apple; two handfuls of nuts and seeds; and one-half to one cup of beans.

Smart Fat

Clinical studies show that enjoying fats from seafood, extra-virgin olive oil and nuts decreases the risk of a heart attack and stroke without causing weight gain. Healthy fats improve cholesterol levels, assist with blood sugar control, are

critical for the brain, improve hormone balance and reduce inflammation.

Fats enhance the texture of food, adding that smooth, creamy mouth feel to a meal that makes eating a pleasure. Enjoy healthy fats from avocados, seeds and dark chocolate daily.

Clean (Not Mean) Protein

Raising animals in large-scale conventional operations with cruel living conditions is not just mean, it also produces less nutritious meat that can be loaded with hormones, antibiotics and pesticides. Choose clean protein instead, which does not contain added hormones, pesticides and other toxins. Good sources of protein are organic dairy products and eggs, wild seafood and animal protein that has been grass-fed or organically fed while living on open pasture. Beans are also a great protein-packed choice that improves blood sugar and cholesterol profiles. They are the most powerful anti-aging food ever tested.

Beneficial Beverages

Start with at least four cups of water per day. It doesn’t matter whether it’s flat or sparkling, so long as it’s pure. Pure water can be purchased or made at home or at work with a reverse osmosis filter system.

Except for people that are caffeine sensitive, one to two servings of caffeinated beverages can be enjoyed daily. In moderation, those tea and coffee pigments are good for us.

Don’t forget a fiber- and protein-rich smoothie to stay satisfied and revved up all morning. A balanced and delicious recipe includes one serving of protein powder, frozen organic cherries or blueberries, almond milk and chia seeds.

Take advantage of the option to enjoy wine with dinner—just be sure to limit wine intake to no more than two servings daily. Avoid any beverage with added sugar or commercial sweeteners. Don’t be fooled into drinking juice; without the fiber, fruit juice is much closer to drinking soda than to eating fruit.

Powerful Probiotics

Not only do probiotics help gut function—a healthy gut microbiome decreases

Accelerate Healing with Energy.

Using light energy through distance healing, your healing process can move forward more smoothly.

“My knee was warm for about 3 full hours after I left. It seemed to heal further after I slept the first couple of nights. While my knee was not healed 100%, it was significantly better and I was able to go on my Montana ski trip the next week.

P.S. Another month after my ski trip my knee has continued to improve.”

Practicing by donation for nearly 10 years. Questions? Call Bill at 770-990-9191 or visit https://www.distancehealer.me

Healthy living at your fingertips. HealthyLivingMichigan.com

Robert, Gainesville, GA

inflammation and supports weight control. The latest research reveals that the microbes in the gut have a dramatic impact on the risk for heart disease, as well. Because healthy microbes feed on fiber, eating fiber is good for the gut microbiome, too.

The right gut microbes offer numerous benefits. They lower harmful cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure to normal levels, assist with weight loss, decrease inflammation and decrease production of trimethylamine N-oxide (also known as TMAO), a marker for heart disease. Support the gut microbiome by eating probiotic food sources daily, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, pickled veggies and miso.

Dr. Steven Masley is a physician, nutritionist, trained chef, clinical professor at the University of South Florida and creator of health programs for public television. He is the author of The 30-Day Heart Tune-Up. Learn more at DrMasley.com.

FRITTATA WITH SPINACH, MUSHROOMS AND CHEESE

YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS

½ lb fresh spinach, washed and drained, stems removed, chopped

2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

½ medium sweet onion, finely chopped

2 cups mushrooms, sliced

½ tsp sea salt

1 tsp Italian herb seasoning

2 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped

8 large cage-free, organically fed eggs

2 Tbsp organic, whole fat milk (or sour cream)

½ cup organic Comté (or Gruyère) cheese, grated

¼ cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated

Preheat oven to 375° F.

Place spinach in a saucepan with ½ cup of water. Cover with a lid and allow to steam on high heat for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and drain; squeeze out excess water. Set aside.

Heat a sauté pan to medium heat; add olive oil, then onion; stir occasionally. After 1 minute, add mushrooms and continue heating for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the mushrooms have softened. Add garlic and Italian herbs and heat 1 minute, then remove from heat.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Stir in the Comté or Gruyère cheese, steamed spinach and sautéed onions with mushrooms. Grease a pie dish with extra-virgin olive oil, then pour the egg and vegetable mixture into the pie dish. Sprinkle Parmigiano Reggiano cheese over the top.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it has the texture of custard—trembling and barely set. For a golden crust, turn on the broiler for the last couple minutes of baking, but don’t overbake, or it will get tough. Check it 5 minutes before it’s supposed to be done.

This recipe and photo were excerpted from The Mediterranean Method. ©2019 Steven Masley, M.D. Used with permission of Harmony Books. All rights reserved.

calendar of events

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2

EMF Hazards Summit 2023: Electromagnetic Radiation Protection Event – Feb 2-5. A chance to learn everything there is to know about EMF radiation and get access to proven solutions for protecting our health and that of our loved ones. Free. Virtual. 714-436-1234. EMFHazards.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4

Pine, Spruce or Fir? Winter Conifer ID –1-2:30pm. Learn ID techniques using various keys, and then hike our trails to put your skills to the test. $10/person. Grass River Education Center, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. Register: GrassRiver.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Gluten-Free Meals – 6-7pm. Learn plenty of tips for transitioning away from gluten with Registered Dietitian Carol Bell. Get ideas and recipes for easy, delicious, gluten-free meals and snacks. $40. Oryana West, 3587 Marketplace Cir, Traverse City. Oryana.coop.

Virtual Factory Farming Problems & Solutions – 7-8:15pm. Lynn Henning is the field operations team director for the Socially Responsible Agricultural Project and winner of the 2010 Goldman Environmental Prize—the environmental equivalent of the Nobel Prize.VegMichigan.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Winterlochen – 11am-3:30pm. Head outside for a variety of wild and wacky winter activities such as human snow bowling, frozen fish toss, snow volleyball and more. Then, warm up with a selection of arts exploration and creative play events. Free. Interlochen Center for the Arts, 4000 J Maddy Pkwy, Interlochen. Interlochen.org.

WinterFest – 12-3pm. A fun-filled family event with outdoor and indoor activities, snowshoeing and x-country skiing weather permitting, crafts, games and s’mores. Free, donations welcome. Grass River Education Center, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. GrassRiver.org.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Winter Webinar Series: Understanding Forest Carbon Offsets – 6-7pm. Join Brittany VanderWall, Senior Forestry Manager for the Family Forest Carbon Program (FFCP), for an introduction and overview of the FFCP and how carbon markets are structured. Free. Zoom. Register: NatureIsCalling.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16

Make, Take & Bake Apple Pie – 6pm. Taste and discuss different apple varieties, then choose own blend of apples, make and roll out your dough, and assemble your pie, which you will take home to bake. $40. Oryana West, 3587 Marketplace Cir, Traverse City. Oryana.coop.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17

Lantern-Lit Ski & Snowshoe – 6:30-8:30pm. Enjoy a self-guided evening ski on GRNA’s groomed ski trails or snowshoe the boardwalk to the river. $5/person; $5 rental fee or bring own. Grass River Education Center, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. Register: GrassRiver.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

Winter Guided Hike: Natural Education Reserve – 10am-12pm. Join staff on a short hiking tour of the Natural Education Reserve to learn about the parkland’s history, management, flora and fauna, and more. Free. 1450 Cass Rd, Traverse City. NatureIsCalling.org.

Daytime Owl Calling – 2-4pm. Learn about the calls and habits of local owls and then take a daytime hike to listen to what owls may be out and about during the day. $10/person. Grass River Education Center, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. Pre-register: GrassRiver.org.

of Brown Bridge Quiet Area to learn about the parkland’s history, management, flora and fauna, and more. Free. 3408 Brown Bridge Rd, Kingsley. NatureIsCalling.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26

Virtual Book Club Q&A – 1-2:30pm. Joined by Emilia A. Leese, co-author of Think Like a Vegan: What Everyone Can Learn from Vegan Ethics VegMichigan.org.

The Good, The Bad & The Bug-ly – 2-3:30pm. In this program with MSU Extension Entomologist and Horticulture Educator, Nate Walton, learn how to manage your green space for invasive insect prevention and pollinator conservation. The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, 1490 Red Dr, Traverse City. TheBotanicGarden.org.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27

Winter Webinar Series: Understanding Conservation Easements – 6-7pm. Join Chase Heise, Conservation Easement Program Manager at the Leelanau Conservancy for an in-depth look at conservation easements and what they mean for private landowners, agriculture, water quality and land protection. Free. Zoom. Register: NatureIsCalling.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19

Slow, Easy Hike: Swanson Preserve – 1pm. Take a winter walk to find out, looking closely at vegetation along the route, thinking about winter aesthetics, and talking about the importance of protecting watershed. More info & to register: Leelanau Conservancy.org.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24

The Michigan Girl MiGirl Winter Retreat – Feb 2426. Hosted by Kandace Chapple, a writer and owner of Michigan Girl, LLC, featured activities include snowshoe outing at the Vasa, complimentary wine tastings, art projects fueled by laughs, a “girls’ night in” pizza party with wine, euchre showdowns and other games, a group breakfast with waffles and mandatory nap time. All inclusive. Spider Lake Retreat. Info: Kandace@ MichiganGirlEvents.com. mi-girl.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25

Winter Harvest Hike: Kehl Lake Natural Area –10am. Let’s hit the trail to breathe in some super fresh Leelanau air and get our sap flowing again. More info & to register: LeelanauConservancy.org.

Winter Guided Hike: Brown Bridge Quiet Area – 10am-12pm. Join District staff on a hiking tour

ongoing events daily

Healing Immersion Retreats – With Aria Mae Everts. Schedule 1-day, immersive private healing retreats for individuals and couples. For those during a difficult or transformative life event or decision that seek further guidance. Free consultation. Bellaire. For more info: 774-578-2762, Aria@AriaMae. com or AriaMae.com.

Get Hydrated on the Go – Renue Wellness offering Quench intravenous (IV) hydration to provide individuals holistic options for promoting wellness. Mobile IV and other services provided by board-certified nurse practitioner Kimberly Marino. For more info: RenueWellness.net.

Sacred Lights Collective Events – A digital platform and virtual community for seekers and facilitators to walk the spiritual path together offering daily classes, groups and workshops. With Aria Mae Everts. Virtual. 774-578-2762. Sacred LightsCollective.com.

Pets & Parents Reiki Session – 9am-9pm. Sessions for wellness, critical care and end of life transition. Actively experience the use of reiki touch with your pet. Learn additional tips for helping your pet. Virtual 40-min appt. $20. 231-590-0001. tcdesoto@ gmail.com.

sundays

Kundalini Yoga – 10am. A dynamic, powerful tool that is designed to give you an experience of your energetic body. All levels. Sliding scale $10-$20. New Moon Yoga, 10781 E Cherry Bend Rd, Traverse City. 231-392-5813. NewMoonYogaStudio.com.

Soul Stirring Yoga Sundays – 10am. In-person and live online with Crystal Turner. Each class is a multi-level class, allowing for exploration and expansion to flourish from the inside-out. $20. Karasi Fitness and Healing Arts, 104 S Union St, Ste 204, Traverse City. 231-492-9206. KarasiFitness AndHealingArts.com.

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

Virtual Body Mindfulness Workshop – 9am. 2nd Mon. With Personal Transformation Coach, Samantha Gutowski. Learn how to love your body more, how to start speaking positively toward your body, eat mindfully and nourish your body instead of restricting yourself, soften and heal your relationship with your body. Receive exercises each morning M-F for 2 weeks. Sliding scale $88-$111. BeHere NowBaby.com.

Free COVID Testing – 10am-2pm. Pre-registration not required but helpful. The Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital Wellness Workshop, 411 Bridge St, Charlevoix. Charlevoix.org.

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

Charlevoix Senior Center Veteran Social & Lunch – 9am-1pm. 1st Tues. Honoring our Veterans. Social beginning at 9am and Free Lunch for Veteran’s at 11:30am. Charlevoix Senior Center, 06906 Norwood Rd, Charlevoix. Charlevoix.org. ‘Sew’cial Day – 10am-6pm. 1st Tues. Grab some interruption free sewing time with help and support to get you through your projects. A great chance to meet up in a safe space and enjoy some sewing time. Juneberry Cottage, 220 N Main St, Evart. RSVP: JuneberryCottage.com.

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.

Hand Work – 12-4pm. 2nd Tues. Work on a project of your choice. Think of it as the non-electrical side of sewing, piecing and quilting. Juneberry Cottage, 220 N Main St, Evart. RSVP: JuneberryCottage. com.

Turntables and Tacos – 4pm-close. Stone Hound Brewing Company, 3593 Bunker Hill Rd, Williamsburg. 231-421-5010. StoneHoundBrewing.com.

Traverse City Women’s Circle – 6pm. 3rd Tues. With personal transformation coach Samantha Gutowski, owner of Be Here Now Baby. A safe space for women to share their true selves, find their voice, reclaim their power and remind them of their worth, all while having some fun. Donation: $10-$20. More info: 616-915-1646, Info@BeHereNowBaby.com or BeHereNowBaby.com.

wednesdays

Kundalini Yoga – 10am. A dynamic, powerful tool that is designed to give you an experience of your energetic body. All levels. Sliding scale $10-$20. New Moon Yoga, 10781 E Cherry Bend Rd, Traverse City. 231-392-5813. NewMoonYogaStudio. com.

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

Wine Down Wednesdays at Castle Farms –6-8pm. Visit 1918 Cellars for live music, food, wine and more. No tickets necessary to enjoy the music. Check their lineup to see who’s going to be performing this summer. Castle Farms, 5052 M-66, Charlevoix. CastleFarms.com.

thursdays

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.

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

Kundalini Yoga – 10am. A dynamic, powerful tool that is designed to give you an experience of your energetic body. All levels. Sliding scale $10-$20. New Moon Yoga, 10781 E Cherry Bend Rd, Traverse City. 231-392-5813. NewMoonYogaStudio. com.

Candle-Light Hike at Mt McSauba – Thru Feb 24. 5-8pm. Experience the magic of snowshoeing, hiking or cross-country skiing on candle-lit trails. You set your own pace on this self-guided journey. Follow the candlelight to a roaring fire and hot chocolate. 9223 Mt McSauba Rd, Charlevoix. 231547-3253. VisitCharlevoix.com.

saturdays

Mindful Morning Flow – 8-9am. In-person and online. Gently energize your body and focus your mind, drawing attention to each movement and breath to each posture in this vinyasa-style practice. $25 in studio, $15 virtually (bundle 6 classes for $120). True Balance Fitness, Nutrition and Wellness, 1128 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City. 231-519-0808. TrueBalanceLife.com.

Indoor Farmers Market at the Village – Thru Apr. 10am-2pm. Presented by The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Free admission. The Mercato corridor, 830 Cottageview Dr, Traverse City. TheVillageTC.com/farmers-market.

classifieds

FOR SALE

FEMALE MINI AUSSIEDOODLE – Female mini aussiedoodle, 5 mo, raised holistically. We prep all our pups for the healthiest start by avoiding toxins that can damage the nervous system & feeding most naturally. Call for details: 989-275-9976.

ADVANCED WELLNESS

EARTH LABS

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 ad page 18.

CBD PRODUCTS

MY CBD 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 28.

COACHING & COUNSELING

TRANSFORMATION COACHING LLC

Ken Scott & Jessica Merwin

Ken@TransformationCoachingLLC.com 231-883-7769

TransformationCoachingLLC.com

We teach individuals, teams and organizations science & researched-based techniques for mental and emotional regulation increasing resilience, promoting health and improving performance. See ad page 7.

COOKING & TEA BREWING

SPICE & TEA MERCHANTS

145 E Front St, Traverse City 231-947-7423

SpiceMerchants.biz/traverse-cityspice-store

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 23.

EMF INVESTIGATOR

GOOD WAVES EMF INVESTIGATOR

Serving Central to Northern MI 231-714-0477

EMFInvestigator.com

Many unexplained health issues are showing links to Cell Phones/Towers/ Wi-Fi (with levels now stronger than bodies naturally adapt to). We detect EMF-related causes by determining sources of harmful radiation & offer solutions to mitigate. See ad page 25.

HEALTHY PET

HEALTHY HERDERS OF HERDING ACRES 989-275-9976

Female mini aussiedoodle, 5 months old, raised holistically. We prep all our pups for the healthiest start by avoiding toxins that can damage the nervous system & feeding most naturally.

MEDICAL/CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIANS

WHOLE HEALTH TRAVERSE CITY 3639 Cass Rd, Traverse City 231-943-2100

WholeHealthTC.org

We help people suffering with chronic joint and muscle pain, and peripheral neuropathy to decrease pain, increase quality of life, and maximize their competitive edge. See ad page 15.

PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION COACHING

SAMANTHA GUTOWSKI

Info@BeHereNowBaby.com 616-915-1646

BeHereNowBaby.com

Looking to transform your life and experience more joy and happiness? I can teach you mindfulness and communication skills to help you build your self-worth and achieve your biggest goals and dreams!

RELIEF FROM TRAUMA, ANXIETY & DEPRESSION

ACT ABSOLUTE CHOICES TODAY COUNSELING NANCY WARNARS, LPC

OperationAbleNancyW@gmail.com 248-845-0513

AbsoluteChoicesTherapy.com

Virtual Teletherapy for all ages. Immediate appointments available. Accepting most insurance. Office in East Lansing. Change happens when you take responsibility to create thinking that supports ways to feel better. Family of origin, groups and media can have a profound effect on your inner being. Letting go of the negativity is critical to co-create new pathways toward hope, peace and love for the life you have a choice to envision.

SCHOOL / EDUCATION

NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION

503 East Broadway St, Mt. Pleasant 989-773-1714

NaturopathicInstitute.info

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.

WELLNESS & HYDRATION

RENUE WELLNESS & HYDRATION

KimberlyMarinoDNP@yahoo.com 231-252-1000

RenueWellness.net

We’re proud to be a mobile IV hydration company. Stay-athome parents, athletes and busy professionals can enjoy the benefits of a wide array of IV cocktails, as well as partiers too worn out from last night’s fun, can receive a hangover recovery IV drip in the comfort of their own homes or setting of their choice. We are available for groups, as well. See ad page 7.