Natural Awakenings of Northern Michigan - September 2024

Emotional Healing

Journey to Wholeness

As the crisp air of autumn weaves through our days, the natural cycles of release and renewal remind us of this season’s essence. Just as trees let go of their leaves to foster new growth, we too are invited to release what no longer serves us—whether emotional burdens, lingering traumas or outdated patterns that hinder our full potential.

Autumn has always been a time of reflection, a season that encourages us to turn inward and take stock of our inner landscape. The beauty of this season mirrors the process of emotional healing so perfectly. Just as the Earth prepares for rest and renewal, we can use this time to nurture our own healing, allowing ourselves to shed the past and prepare for a new chapter of growth and transformation.

As we navigate life, our experiences—both joyful and painful—shape us. Sometimes, the wounds from these experiences remain open, silently influencing our thoughts, actions and overall well-being. If left unaddressed, emotional trauma can manifest in various ways, impacting not only our mental and emotional health, but also our physical state. The stress it imposes can weaken our immune system, disrupt our sleep and even lead to chronic conditions.

In this issue, we focus on the theme of emotional healing from the inside out, exploring how we can align with the natural rhythms of

the season to support our emotional well-being. The articles within are designed to offer guidance as you embark on or continue your healing journey.

However, the power to heal lies within each of us. Healing from the inside out involves a deep, conscious effort to reconnect with ourselves, to acknowledge and release the pain we’ve held onto and to cultivate a sense of peace and wholeness. It is about nurturing our inner world, listening to our heart’s wisdom and allowing ourselves the grace to heal.

As you read through this issue, consider what you might need to let go of to move forward. Which old emotions, beliefs or habits can you release this season to welcome the new? Just as trees trust in the process of shedding their leaves, we too can trust in the healing process. It may be challenging at times, but it is also deeply rewarding.

Remember that healing is a journey—one that unfolds at its own pace and in its own time. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate this path, and know that each step you take brings you closer to the peace and wholeness you deserve.

We hope this autumn season brings you not only the beauty of changing leaves, but also a renewed sense of clarity, peace and purpose. Thank you for allowing us to accompany you on your healing journey.

With warmest wishes for a season of release and renewal,

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© 2024 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.

Michigan / Grand Traverse Region

New Cutting-Edge Wellness Product

Now Available: PolarAid

a multisensory brain treatment, addresses various issues including focus, concentration and sleep disturbances, offering a non-invasive option for improving cognitive function.

PolarAid is a rev olutionary, afford able, new body tool that supports wellness, well-be ing and improves quality of life. Technology first demonstrated by Nikola Tesla and Dr. Georges Lak hovsky and adapted for today’s proactive consumer by Dr. Dino Tomic, has received hundreds of authentic, compelling testimonials to its benefits. PolarAid encourages sexual health, weight management, healthy metabolism, bowel and digestive health, muscle, joint and spine health, flexibility, mental calm, balanced moods and more.

Cost: $49.95 after 25 percent discount; $64 (zero shipping on orders above $100), with a 30-day money back guarantee (minus shipping and admin. fee). Further savings are available via their Friend’s Pack of 3 PolarAids plus 1 and their Family’s Pack of 5 PolarAids plus 2; or $150 for 4 (save 41 percent) and $250 for 7 (save 44 percent). To view an informative video on using the product, to order or for more information, call 450-486-7888 or visit PolarAidHealth.com. See ad page 30.

Northern Lights Chiropractic Provides Hormonal Balance and Brain Health Solutions

Northern Lights

Chiropractic, under the guidance of Dr. Ramona Pleva, offers a holistic approach to achieving optimal health through per sonalized chiroprac tic care. Specializing in gentle, precise spi nal and extremity adjustments, Northern Lights Chiropractic uses the Arthrostim chiropractic instrument, ensuring each patient receives tailored care without the discomfort often associated with traditional chiropractic methods.

Pleva, a certified practitioner of the Quicksilver Hormone Replenishing System, also offers specialized care for women experiencing hormonal transitions. By utilizing bio-identical hormone protocols and testing, she helps women balance their hormones, contributing to better overall health, including benefits for brain, heart, bones and breast tissue.

Location: 510 Depot View Dr., Ste. 13, Traverse City. To make an appointment or for more information, call 231-668-5050 or visit RamonaPlevaDC.com.

Head & Heart Therapeutic Solutions Elevates Mental Health Care with Compassionate Approach

Beyond chiropractic adjustments, Northern Lights Chiropractic provides advanced health services such as WAVi brain scanning technology, which objectively measures brain function, making it an invaluable tool for athletes, individuals with brain injuries and those facing memory challenges. Additionally, The Clarity Chair,

Head & Heart Therapeutic Solutions, located in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, is redefining mental health care with a unique approach that balances science and compassion. The wellness center offers a range of services, including individual therapy, anxiety and trauma treatment, EMDR, HAES-aligned health coaching, couples counseling and adolescent therapy.

At Head & Heart, the belief that everyone deserves to feel, heal and evolve is central to their mission. The center’s therapists are dedicated to providing a safe environment where clients can engage in transformative growth through authentic relationships and evidence-based treatments. The team is particularly passionate about the results they’re seeing with Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), two cutting-edge techniques known for their effectiveness in trauma healing and personal transformation.

The therapeutic approach at Head & Heart is rooted in authenticity, research and cultural responsiveness. Each therapist brings a commitment to ongoing education and professional development, ensuring that clients receive the most effective care available. Whether addressing mental health concerns or guiding clients through personal growth, Head & Heart is dedicated to fostering deep connections and supporting clients on their journey to self-acceptance.

Location: 810 Cottageview Dr., Ste. 101, Traverse City. To make an appointment or for more information, call 231-642-2778 or visit HeadAndHeartTC.com.

Dr. Ramona Pleva

Laughing Lotus Wellness Offers

Mind, Body and Spirit Counseling

Laughing Lotus Wellness, led by Licensed Professional Counselor Megan Morrissey, offers holistic mental health counseling in Traverse City. Morrissey, who holds a master’s degree in Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy from Western Michigan University, brings a wealth of experience in crisis counseling, domestic violence support and addiction recovery to her practice. With a deep commitment to holistic wellness, Morrissey’s approach to counseling goes beyond treating symptoms. She focuses on the integration of mental, physical, spiritual and social health to foster overall well-being. Her methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy and experiential therapies such as art, play, music, nature and exercise therapies. Morrissey’s feminist and trauma-informed approach ensures that every client’s unique needs are met with care and respect.

Laughing Lotus Wellness provides individual counseling for children, teens and adults, both in-person and online. Morrissey’s personal motto, “No mud. No lotus,” reflects her belief in the power of resilience and the beauty that can emerge from adversity. She is dedicated to helping clients discover their strengths, build healthier coping skills and develop a positive mindset for a healthier life.

Location: 2809 Frank St., Traverse City. To make an appointment or for more information, call 231-632-3480 or visit TheLaughingLotus.com.

SoulWays Offers a Path to Authentic Self-Discovery and Healing

approaches. By focusing on self-empowerment, SoulWays helps clients transform old patterns and beliefs, address the root causes of their concerns and achieve lasting well-being and fulfillment. Whether in-person or through virtual sessions, SoulWays serves clients worldwide, providing personalized support for a variety of issues, including relationship challenges, somatic trauma, self-esteem struggles and more.

SoulWays Body-Mind Therapy is committed to offering a path to authentic self-discovery and profound healing. Edwards brings years of experience and a deep passion for helping individuals transform their lives through these integrative, body-mind-spirit modalities.

For a free, initial, 30-minute consultation, to make an appointment or for more information, call 231-421-3120 or visit SoulWaysHealing.com.

Groundwork and United Way

Secure Funding for School Nutrition Enhancement

Northwest lower Michigan is taking a significant step for ward in promoting local food in schools, thanks to new fund ing that will sup port dedicated staff members focused on nutrition and gar den education. Five schools within the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District (ISD) have each been awarded $40,000 grants, spread over two years, to bolster the use of locally grown foods and cultivate a culture of food health among students.

SoulWays BodyMind Therapy, an alternative and holistic health service in Traverse City, provides a range of integrative approaches designed to support deep personal growth and healing. Led by Lee Edwards, SoulWays combines Internal Family Systems (IFS) parts work, somatic trauma resolution, attachment healing, brainspotting and other holistic methods to address the body, mind, emotions and spirit. These powerful techniques allow clients to engage in a holistic healing journey that goes beyond traditional talk therapy or medical

This initiative is part of a broader national movement, with the United Way of Northwest Michigan and the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities leading the charge locally. These organizations have secured the Whole Child Nutrition: Policy, Infrastructure, Food Literacy grant through the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, which aims to provide seed funding for the creation of Farm to School Coordinator positions in the participating schools.

These coordinators will play a pivotal role in enhancing farm to school programs by offering garden and nutrition education, advocating for participation in Michigan’s 10 Cents a Meal program and assisting in the procurement of local produce. They will also curate school menus to include more scratch-cooked meals, lead family engagement events around wellness and facilitate student-led conversations about nutrition.

This effort builds on the work Groundwork and FoodCorps have been doing since 2016, beginning with Boyne Falls Public Schools and represents a significant step towards creating a sustainable, locally focused food system in schools.

Location: 414 E. Eighth St., Ste. 204, Traverse City. For more information, call 231-941-6584 or visit GroundworkCenter.org.

Megan Morrissey

Megan Morrissey

Contrast Water Therapy for Muscles

Exercise creates microscopic tears in muscle tissues, which the body repairs, and each repetition of this cycle allows muscles to grow back stronger. Contrast water therapy (CWT) is a post-workout recovery method that involves placing sore muscles in alternating hot and cold baths in succession. Data examined from 13 studies and published in a 2013 PLOS ONE review showed that CWT resulted in significantly greater improvements in muscle soreness and reduced strength loss at six, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after exercise, compared to rest without any other post-recovery approach. The results of CWT were comparable to other muscle recovery interventions such as cold-water immersion, warm-immersion, compression and stretching.

Cause of Lupus Discovered

Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, damaging joints, skin, muscles, connective tissue and major organs such as the kidneys, brain and heart. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, an estimated 1.5 million Americans have lupus, with nine out of 10 being women. Researchers at Northwestern Medicine and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, say they have identified the root cause of lupus. In research reported in the journal Nature, the scientists

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identified a molecular defect that promotes the immune response in lupus, as well as a way to reprogram the lupus-causing cells to correct the imbalance in the immune response. Work continues to find a safe and effective way to deliver these molecules to the body for reprogramming.

Childhood Diet Linked to LongTerm Cognitive Health

The findings of a study on the long-term effects of diet were presented at the June 2024 meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, in Chicago. The study tracked diet and cognitive abilities of more than 3,000 adults enrolled in a British survey since 1946. The participants’ diet was analyzed at five points in time, and their cognitive ability at seven points. The researchers found that higher dietary quality was closely linked with greater cognitive ability, including working memory, processing speed and general cognitive performance. Those with the highest cognitive abilities over time ate more vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains, and less sodium, added sugars and refined grains. Only 8 percent of participants with low-quality diets sustained high cognitive abilities. The results of the study suggest that the cumulative effects of diet are linked to how sharp the mind is as we age.

Microbiome and Addictive Eating

While food addiction is not considered an official diagnosis, some people have a hard time controlling the amount of highly processed foods they consume. In research published in the journal Gut, scientists analyzed the microbiome bacteria of mice and humans with food addictions. They found that the bacteria in mice and humans with food addictions were different from their counterparts with

a healthy food relationship. The food-addicted groups had lower levels of the benBlautia bacteria and high levels of the detrimenProteobacteria in their microbiomes. When the researchers increased the Blaubacteria levels in the mice that had become compulsive eaters, the compulsive behavior stopped. While a correlation between the microbiome makeup and eating patterns has been identified, more research is needed to understand whether that relationship is a cause or a marker for compulsive eating.

Standardizing Acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is estimated to affect 18.4 percent, or about 18 million, American men. Acupuncture has long been used as a treatment with fewer potential side effects than pharmaceutical treatments. Unlike conventional medicine, the application of acupuncture and other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine may vary by practitioner. A research article published in Karger’s Complementary Medicine Research journal sought to reach consensus on the most effective diagnostic and treatment protocols for clinical use and for future research into the effectiveness of acupuncture. Eleven acupuncture experts named 24 acupoints and between 11 and 15 weekly treatments as an optimal regimen.

Bloodwork Analysis Reveals Hidden Answers

The analysis of bloodwork can uncover hidden insights that improve overall health. Free webinars, led by Dr. Jena Hullman, offer guidance on understanding key thyroid panels and highlight five often-overlooked factors in blood tests. These sessions empower participants to interpret their results and take control of their well-being.

For more details, visit BloodworkExpert.com. See ad page 23.

Health Risks of Smart Meters Under Scrutiny:

Growing Concerns Among Experts and Residents

by Rachel Cara

Amid the widespread deployment of Smart Meters by utility companies across Michigan and the United States, mounting evidence from experts and affected individuals raises serious concerns about the potential health risks associated with these devices. Initially introduced as a technological convenience, Smart Meters wirelessly transmit energy usage data around the clock, a function that has evolved from monthly to continuous daily transmission. However, the implementation of these devices has sparked a significant debate over privacy, accuracy, and, more alarmingly, public health.

Since the introduction of Smart Meters by major Michigan utilities like DTE and Consumers Energy in 2016, reports of chronic health issues have surged. Many residents began experiencing symptoms such as autoimmune disorders, insomnia, rashes and headaches, with some directly correlating the onset of these conditions with the installation of Smart Meters on their homes. For others, the connection was only discovered after extensive and costly medical consultations, often with specialists unfamiliar with the potential impacts of low-level radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted by these devices.

The assumption that non-ionizing radiation, like that from Smart Meters, is harmless has been challenged by decades of research. Pioneering studies by Dr. Leif Salford, a Swedish neurosurgeon, revealed that exposure to low-level RF radiation could cause leakage of the blood-brain barrier, a critical defense mechanism in the human body. Subsequent

research conducted across six countries confirmed these findings, underscoring the potential dangers of continuous RF exposure.

Dr. David Carpenter, a prominent public health expert and Director of the Institute for Health & Environment at the University at Albany, testified before the Michigan Legislature, warning that the widespread use of Smart Meters could cause significant harm to human health. Carpenter’s peer-reviewed research, published in 2008, links low-level RF radiation to damage in the central nervous system, which in many cases leads to irreversible conditions known as Microwave Sickness or Electro-Hyper-Sensitivity (EHS). According to Carpenter, this condition could affect between 5 to 10 percent of the population.

Notable experts, including Dr. Devra Davis, Ph.D., MPH, author of Disconnect: The Truth About Cell Phone Radiation, and Dr. Martin Pall, professor emeritus of biochemistry at Washington State University, have echoed these concerns. Pall’s research further con-

nects RF exposure to chronic conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and bone density loss, contributing to an increase in osteoporosis diagnoses.

As Smart Meters become ubiquitous, many utility companies now offer an opt-out option, allowing customers to pay a fee for a non-transmitting digital meter. This alternative is increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals, offering not only peace of mind but also potential energy cost savings. For those seeking further protection, additional measures such as shielding the interior walls adjacent to Smart Meters or installing protective barriers against neighboring meters are also available.

Rachel Cara is owner of EMF Investigator, a leading service provider in the field, that offers comprehensive surveys to assess and mitigate wireless exposure in homes, helping residents safeguard their health in the face of pervasive wireless technology. Connect with her at EMFInvestigator.com. See ad on back cover.

Providence Organic Farm:

Celebrates 18 Years of Providing Certified Organic Foods Through CSA Farm Boxes

Providence Organic Farm, in the heart of northwest lower Michigan, is marking its 18th year of delivering certified organic foods to local families through its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Farm Boxes. With a commitment to sustainable farming practices, Providence Organic Farm currently serves 400 families across five counties, including Grand Traverse, Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet and Gaylord.

Founders Ryan and Andrea Romeyn

Founded by Ryan and Andrea Romeyn, Providence Organic Farm has grown from a small 2.5-acre operation to a thriving 30-acre farm. The Romeyns attribute much of their success to their loyal CSA members, who have played a crucial role in the farm’s steady growth over nearly two decades. “Our CSA members have really been the backbone of our farm,” says Ryan. “They’ve added much-needed stability to our farm business over the years, enabling us to grow slowly and sustainably.”

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) was established in the United States several decades ago as a response to the massive loss of family farms. CSA programs allow consumers to support local farms directly, ensuring that they receive fresh, organic produce while helping small

farms remain viable. Providence Organic Farm’s CSA members benefit from this model by receiving fresh, seasonal produce throughout the year, knowing that their food is grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides or genetically modified seeds.

Andrea emphasizes the impact of their CSA program on the farm’s growth and community involvement. “There is no way we would have been able to grow from about 2.5 acres of production to now 30 acres if it wasn’t for our CSA members,” she says. “Our CSA program has also helped us grow to the point where we can provide foods for our area food pantries, food cooperatives and markets, train young farmers and offer numerous educational tours and classes.”

Providence Organic Farm’s CSA program offers two distinct seasons: Summer-Fall and Winter-Spring. Each “Growing Season” Farm Box is filled with a rotating variety of tender greens, herbs, alliums and seasonal fruits and vegetables, ensuring members receive the freshest produce available. Additionally, members have the flexibility to customize their boxes by adding local eggs, mushrooms, blueberries and farm-raised meats.

As a special bonus, new members who subscribe to 18 or more weeks receive a comprehensive CSA cookbook, a free drink coupon for the on-farm café and discounts on workshops and events. All members also enjoy first dibs on special offers like flats of strawberries, sides of pork or lamb options.

Location: 5691 N. M 88, Central Lake. To sign up for a CSA Farm Box or for more information, call 231-599-2020, email ProvidenceCSA@ gmail.com or visit ProvidenceOrganicFarm.com. See ad page 7.

Stopping the Trauma Cycle

Mind-Body Healing Strategies

by Carrie Gauthier

Trauma can strike anyone at any time. Loss, heartbreak, abuse, violence, displacement, accidents, disasters, health problems—the list of possible traumas is endless. According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, 70 percent of adults have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives, and more than a third of youth exposed to community violence experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma is a factor in most behavioral health and substance-use disorders. While trauma may be part of our lives, it does not need to define who we are or how we enjoy our lives. Healing from trauma can take time, but it is within reach.

Health Effects

Left untreated, trauma or repeated trauma has a wide range of shortand long-term effects on physical and mental health. Trauma increases stress and keeps the fight-or-flight response on elevated alert, resulting in the release of chronically high amounts of cortisol into the body. Initial reactions may include exhaustion, numbness, sadness, anxiety and dissociation. Excessive cortisol increases the risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, digestive problems, muscle tension, headaches, sleep issues, weight gain, irregular periods, anxiety, depression and cognitive challenges.

Cycle of Addiction

Trauma is a common precursor to addiction, because individuals often turn to substances as a coping mechanism for their emotional pain. The use of drugs or alcohol gives trauma sufferers a reprieve from their chronic stress by producing pleasure and reducing negative feelings, and may even slow their central nervous system. Untreated, trauma can lead to a vicious cycle where one condition feeds the other.

Holistic Healing

While medications such as antidepressants and antipsychotics can be effective in treating trauma symptoms, they may fall short in addressing the root cause. An integrative approach to trauma healing adds evidence-based therapies to tackle the underlying causes and promote long-term recovery.

Integrative Psychiatry

James Greenblatt, a board-certified functional and integrative psychiatrist and founder of Psychiatry Redefined, believes in a broader view of psychiatric care. “For example, if our patient is suffering from depression and we were to tell them they should exercise because it’s the best antidepressant we have, that could come off as incredibly insensitive, ruin our chances of gaining their trust and add to their feelings of helplessness and isolation. Alternatively, if we show them how to recover their motivation and energy, that is the way to begin the relationship.”

“Our bodies are different, and our genetics are different. How we react to stress and trauma are different too. I start with lab and genetic tests to see if there’s something I can optimize biologically. Then we supplement any nutritional deficiencies to restore their functionality and increase their energy. These tests also partially help inform the way we design the complementary healing modality plan. This is the piece that gets missed a lot,” says Greenblatt, adding that he tests depressed patients for a vitamin B12 deficiency, which may contribute to depression, anxiety and even psychosis.

Finding a Safe Place

Children are particularly susceptible to trauma, and an adverse childhood experience (ACE) can pose lifelong impacts. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 64 percent of adults say they have had at least one ACE, and 17 percent say they had four or more by age 18. ACEs can rob kids of the magic of childhood, disrupt their development and lead to maladaptive behaviors in adulthood.

Aimie Apigian, a double board-certified physician in preventative and addiction medicine and founder of Trauma Healing

Accelerated, started her work with attachment and trauma by working with adoptive families to help their children with attachment insecurity. She explains that childhood traumatic experiences can result in “underlying mistrust—literally wiring a child’s nervous system, brain and body for survival—and overwhelm connection, security and safety.”

Somatic therapy is one modality that Apigian integrates to assist individuals on their trauma-healing journey, helping them connect with their bodies, learn to understand its messages and resolve stored trauma. Apigian explains that just 10 minutes of sequential somatic exercises over 21 days can restore a sense of safety. “For each person, the specific improvement or the degree of improvement will be different, but there will be an improvement as soon as we shift our biology into one of safety rather than of danger.”

By following an essential sequence to safely address stored trauma through somatic exercises, Apigian says people “experience 30 percent less depression, 30 percent less anxiety, 30 percent fewer digestive issues, 30 percent improvement in energy and a 60

percent increase in their feelings of safety. The essential sequence has to start with creating a felt sense of safety, then a sense of support and then opening up while pacing our process. It is such a powerful way to empower them for their lifetime.”

Reaching Our Inner Child

Inner-child work can help develop a dialogue to reach the place where we hold past emotions, memories, beliefs, hopes and dreams. “I tell people when they’re starting this journey, if they put their hands on their belly above and below their bellybutton and just let the hands be there, that will calm down an aspect of us so that it begins to feel safe. It’s called the basic self,” says Dr. Lin Morel, a trauma management specialist and founder of Beyond Words Group. “It’s an aspect of our consciousness that is roughly 5 years old, if you were to give it an age. So it gets very fearful, and if it’s not loved, it will act out.”

According to Morel, embracing the basic self can help people out of some of the darkest corners of trauma. No stranger to childhood and adult trauma herself, she empowers her patients with the W.I.N. protocol (willingness, intention, neutrality),

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which offers them a fresh approach to handling challenges while developing their intuition and regulating emotions as a neutral observer.

Mindful Self-Regulation

There is growing evidence that mindfulnessbased practices such as meditation and yoga aid in shifting focus from the negative to the positive aspects of experiences. These techniques calm the nervous system and empower individuals to take control of their narratives and become more resilient.

A 2017 review of trials involving 650 trauma sufferers that underwent mindfulnessbased stress reduction, yoga and mantra repetition was published in Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy. The researchers concluded that meditation was an effective treatment for PTSD and depression symptoms as compared to the control groups.

A 2022 systematic review of 149 records and 11 peer-reviewed articles published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that those that practiced yoga had an increased sense of self-compassion, felt more centered, developed coping skills, had a better mind-body relationship and improved their relationships with others. Participants also experienced a feeling of safety in yoga classes that included others recovering from trauma.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy is a mind-body practice that uses a trance-like state of deep relaxation to treat psychological and emotional disorders. Guided imagery, progressive relaxation and suggestion therapy are used to explore thoughts, feelings and memories that may be hidden from the conscious mind. Self-hypnosis techniques are also taught for ongoing support, empowering individuals to continue their healing outside of therapy sessions. A 2016 meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis concluded that hypnosis is effective in alleviating PTSD symptoms.

“A miracle, simply, is a shift in the mind. Once you find the root cause of the problem in the mind and bring that to consciousness, we’re shifting from ego to true self, from fear to love, from illusion to truth,” says Matthew Brownstein, executive director of the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy. “Through hypnotherapy, that shift is actually remarkably easy. You can shift as quickly as I can snap my fingers. So, basically, when you change your mind, everything changes. When a decision is made, it stays in place until you choose again.”

Carrie Gauthier is a writer in the healing arts with interests in clinical and transpersonal hypnotherapy.

Unlock Emotional Freedom:

with Wildfire Dreams Equine Therapy

Wildfire Dreams Equine Gestalt Wellness, whose mission is to positively change lives by creating connections in a sacred place of healing that promotes wellness, balance and harmony, offers a unique healing experience, blending the power of gestalt coaching with the intuitive nature of horses. This program, located at Schön Frieden Farm, is dedicated to helping individuals overcome emotional struggles through a deep connection with horses, allowing them to release pain, trauma and limiting beliefs that may be holding them back from living their best lives.

Founded by Carolyne Stolzenfels, an experienced horse owner, trainer and certified Equine Gestaltist, Wildfire Dreams emerged from a profound personal journey. Stolzenfels discovered the therapeutic power of horses during a challenging time in her life, where one of her horses helped her release deep-seated trauma. This experience led her to explore the healing relationship between horses and humans, ultimately guiding her to Touched By A Horse, a certification program focusing on gestalt coaching with horses.

At Wildfire Dreams, the approach is distinct from other equine therapy programs. The horses are not merely tools, but active participants in the healing process. Each session begins with the client entering the barn, where the horses are free to roam in and out as they please. This freedom allows the horses to choose whether they want to work

with a particular client. The chosen horse, or sometimes two, then collaborates with Stolzenfels to address the client’s emotional needs. Through keen observation of the horse’s responses and the client’s somatic cues, Stolzenfels guides the individual through a process that uncovers and addresses deep emotional blocks.

This method of healing is particularly powerful because it leverages the horses’ natural desire for harmony within the herd, which includes humans who enter their space. Horses are highly intuitive creatures, capable of sensing emotions and responding in ways that facilitate emotional release and healing. The result is a transformative experience that allows clients to move past unresolved issues, leading to a life filled with more joy and ease.

In addition to one-on-one sessions, Wildfire Dreams offers Creative Healing Circles, where participants gather in the barn, surrounded by horses, to engage in deep emotional work in a supportive and nurturing environment. These circles encourage attendees to explore their emotional landscapes and receive support not only from Stolzenfels and the horses but also from fellow participants.

Looking ahead, Stolzenfels plans to expand her offerings by introducing retreats at Schön Frieden Farm. These multi-day experiences will provide a peaceful sanctuary for individuals seeking deeper healing and connection with themselves, others and the natural world. The Creative Healing Circles will also continue to be a key part of Wildfire Dreams’ offerings, especially as the seasons change, providing clients with a space to embrace these transitions, both internally and externally.

Location: Schön Frieden Farm, Charlevoix. For more information, call 231-758-2277 or visit WildfireDreams.com. See ad page 25.

Reed (R) and Javi (L)

Founder Carolyne Stolzenfels and Ella

Aimie Apigian

on Releasing Stored Trauma

by Sandra Yeyati

Aimie Apigian is a double board-certified physician in preventative and addiction medicine with master’s degrees in biochemistry and public health. As the founder of Trauma Healing Accelerated, she instructs individuals and practitioners on how trauma gets stored in the body and what to do once it creates a chronic health condition. Her signature methodology looks at the effects of trauma on cell biology, a missing piece in trauma therapy approaches. Patients begin with a six-week foundational journey before digging into deeper trauma work and the biology piece.

How do you define trauma and the trauma response?

Dr. Bessel van der Kolk uses three words to define trauma: overwhelming, unbelievable and unbearable. A trauma is something that overwhelms us in our ability to respond. We can’t believe it’s happening, and it’s so unbearable we disconnect from our body to not feel it—it’s things like loneliness, shame or abandonment. That’s why we numb, suppress, repress, distract or avoid. The body shifts from using energy to conserving it, so we only do the bare minimum to get through the day—and that includes thinking; many people will have decision fatigue. Also, the diaphragm loses its tone in the trauma response because our body goes into, “I’m going to breathe only enough to keep me alive.”

Why does trauma get stored in the body?

If there isn’t a completion of the trauma response, then the body will hold onto that trauma. The nervous system never gets that completion that says, “That was awful, but it’s over now.” The brain never stores it as a memory of the past, which means that it’s always in our present moment. When our whole biology continues to operate in fear, this can affect our hormones, immune system, digestion and cardiovascular system. Without a reset back to safety, we stay in danger mode and the body will close down at the cellular level.

How can we achieve a sense of safety?

During the first week of my foundational journey, I have people learn seven somatic exercises intended to help them create an immediate felt sense of feeling safer in their body. So no matter where

they are—at the grocery store, at home—if they lose their sense of safety, they have tools in the moment to get it back.

Can you give an example of a tool?

Bring your hands up as close to your shoulder as possible and imagine there’s this huge boulder in front of you. Start pushing it away, going as slow as you can. It’s not easy; you’re going to feel your arm muscles because you’re pushing hard. When you get to full extension, pause and wait for a few seconds. There are changes happening in our body, and it takes time for that message to travel up our vagus nerve to our brain stem to register. Take notice of any changes in your body. You might feel a sense of release. You might have this deep breath come that you didn’t plan for.

What comes next in the sequence?

Once we create that felt sense of safety, the body is opening up, and now it needs to feel support or it’s going to go back into trauma response. I lead people through the process of creating a felt sense of support. Here’s an example: Put your hands over your heart, one on top of the other, and push in quite a bit. A really deep breath comes for me; that’s how my body gives me the message that this is nice for me. Experiment and move your hands around—sometimes we can do it higher, more centered, over to the side—and find the spot that feels the nicest for your heart.

What is titrated expansion?

We each have a current capacity for how much we can hold at the moment without being overwhelmed, and I want to build my capacity so that a year from now I’m able to hold more. For many people in my courses, when they feel a lot of joy, then tears, sadness and grief seem to come, so it has been safer for them to just not feel much joy. To expand into your capacity to experience joy, you can’t go all the way immediately. You’ve got to find a safe amount of joy that you can have today that feels manageable, and then use a tool so that tomorrow you can feel a little more joy and still feel safe. We do this titrated or paced expansion, staying safe enough as we grow.

Can you explain your parts-work approach?

If we don’t complete a trauma response, there’s going to be a part that is still stuck there in that moment of danger, kind of not knowing that we survived. In parts work, I teach people how to know their major parts in order to stabilize their system. Your inner critic, for example, is a major part that we’ve got to work with pretty soon, because otherwise your critic will continue to shame you and get you into trauma response. I guide people to notice how these parts show up in the body. Next time you feel something familiar in your body, you know, “That’s my inner critic,” and it doesn’t scare or frustrate you anymore. You’re like, “Oh, hello.” That is a true mind-body connection.

Sandra Yeyati is national

editor of Natural Awakenings

To read a longer version of this conversation, visit Tinyurl.com/ApigianNA or scan the QR code.

Discover bespoke cannabis solutions for sleep, pain,

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Marvelous Mushrooms

Celebrating a Culinary Powerhouse

by Marlaina Donato

September is National Mushroom Month, and with it comes bountiful inspiration to plate up some earthy goodness. Whether we follow the nearest woodland path to forage or visit the local market to stock up on our favorite fungi, autumn is the perfect time to appreciate the delicious world of edible mushrooms. From creamy vegan risotto to golden soups, or from daring sautés punctuated with chiles to savory broths, consuming more mushrooms benefits our palate and well-being.

Health Benefits

The Mayo Clinic reports that mushrooms help curb high blood pressure and protect us from

neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Most mushrooms available at the market are a good source of B vitamins and minerals, especially selenium-rich creminis and vitamin D-rich maitakes.

A 2021 Penn State study published in Advances in Nutrition involving data of more than 19,500 cancer patients over several decades reveals that individuals consuming one-eighth to one-quarter cup of mushrooms daily had a 45 percent lower risk of total cancer compared to those that did not. It is believed that the antioxidants ergothioneine and glutathione—present in all mushrooms—contribute to beneficial

metabolic processes in the body. Other research is focused on a correlation between white button mushroom consumption and a lower risk of prostate and breast cancer.

Off the Trail and Into the Kitchen

Mushrooms have been used as both nourishment and medicine for ages, but their versatility in the kitchen is what delights Sharon Palmer, a plant-based dietician and author of California Vegan and The Plant-Powered Diet. “You can sauté or grill them as a side dish, stir them into soups and stews, add them to grain and pasta dishes, chop them into salads or bowls and include them in

casseroles,” she advises. “Use finely chopped mushrooms in lentil patties, veggie burgers, veggie ‘meat’ balls and veggie loaves. You really can’t detect their texture, but you get that rich, savory flavor in the recipe.”

Palmer favors certain commonly available varieties: shiitake and trumpet mushrooms for their reliable, firm texture; oyster mushrooms for their delicate softness suited for stir fries; and petite enoki mushrooms for a crisp addition to salads. To obtain memorable flavor, gourmet varieties such as porcinis can be purchased dried and easily rehydrated for soups and sauces.

On the wilder side, foraged mushrooms such as golden chanterelles are an annual favorite among connoisseurs. “The mossy, old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest are some of my favorite fall destinations,” says Langdon Cook, a Seattle-based forager and author of The Mushroom Hunters, who recommends taking a foraging class or joining a mycological society for hands-on safety tips and in-the-field learning.

Cook notes that mushrooms are ideal for vegetarians and vegans because many varieties are firm in texture and pair well with vegetables. “Black trumpet or yellowfoot mushrooms take a basic dish of creamy polenta to the next level, and most grains and pastas will benefit from the addition of fungi,” he asserts. “Try a dry sauté method: heating the mushrooms in a bare pan until they release their water, cooking off that liquid and then adding butter or oil near the end of the cooking process to brown them.”

While mushrooms can dress up gourmet dishes, they are surprisingly quick and easy for everyday eating, too. “You don’t need to fuss over mushrooms too much,” Palmer points out. “Just rinse in water and pat dry; then you’re ready to cook with them. My favorite way to cook mushrooms is to slice and sauté them in a small amount of olive oil with garlic and lemon as a side dish.”

Cook advises, “Don’t try to cook mushrooms too fast or over high heat. Medium heat is fine. Take your time. Mushrooms are

Dark Chocolate & Smoked Sea Salt

Chocolate chips blended with smoked sea salt for a dark and rich salted chocolate flavor. Think of these as your favorite chocolate chip

mostly water, and you need to cook off that liquid content to give them a nice sear.” He underscores the importance of cooking wild mushrooms fully to prevent digestive upset, especially morels, which “absolutely cannot be served raw or undercooked.”

Palmer concurs, saying, “Eating raw mushrooms may cause mild GI [gastrointestinal] issues in some people; cooking the mushrooms typically eliminates this issue.” She also suggests covering the pot or pan when cooking them in soups or stews to lock in flavor and nutrition.

For Cook, the magical lure of mushrooms goes beyond the tastebuds. “To me, morels mean springtime trips to woodlands reawakening from winter slumbers with birdsong and snowmelt, and porcinis mean long summer hikes to subalpine meadows in the Rockies and North Cascades,” he says.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and recording artist. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

*Makes 30 cookies* 1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter, at room temperature 1/2 Cup White Sugar

Cup Granulated Brown Sugar

Large Egg

Teaspoon Premium Vanilla Extract, Madagascar

1/4 Cups All-Purpose Flour

Teaspoon Baking Soda

Teaspoon Kosher Sea Salt Flakes

Vegan Pot Pie With Sage, Lentils and Mushrooms

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

FOR LENTIL MUSHROOM FILLING:

1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium red onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 8-oz sweet potato, peeled, cubed

4 oz fresh green beans, chopped

8 oz mushrooms, sliced

1 cup brown or green lentils, dried

2 Tbsp fresh sage (or 1 Tbsp dried)

2 tsp thyme

1 Tbsp whole-grain prepared mustard

½ tsp black pepper

2 cups vegetable broth

½ cup water

2 Tbsp gluten-free soy sauce

¼ cup plain, unsweetened, plant-based milk

2 Tbsp flour

Salt, to taste

FOR SAGE PASTRY CRUST:

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup whole wheat flour

¼ tsp salt (optional)

2 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 Tbsp dried)

⅓ cup vegan butter

4-5 Tbsp ice-water

Heat olive oil in a heavy pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes. Add sweet potato and green beans and sauté for 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and sauté for 2 minutes. Add lentils, sage, thyme, mustard and black pepper and sauté for 1 minute. Add vegetable broth, water and soy sauce and cook for 15 minutes.

Mix plant-based milk with flour until smooth. Stir into vegetable mixture and cook until thickened and bubbling, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, as desired. Transfer filling into a deep pie dish or round casserole that fits 1½ quarts.

While filling is cooking, make the sage pastry crust. Preheat oven to 425° F. In a medium bowl, mix all-purpose and whole-wheat flours and salt. Mix in sage. Cut in vegan butter with a fork until

it makes a crumbly texture. Add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix using clean hands until it creates a firm dough that holds together but is not sticky. Do not overwork dough, as it will get tough.

Turn out pastry dough on a floured surface and roll out with a pastry roller to create a circle about 11 inches in diameter. Place the pastry over the top of the savory pie and crimp the edges with your fingers to secure the pastry dough to the top of the dish. Cut several vents with a knife along the pie.

Place the savory pie on a baking sheet (in case it boils over) and place in the oven. Bake for about 20 to 22 minutes until golden brown. Remove and serve.

To make this recipe gluten-free, use corn starch instead of flour and gluten-free flour blend instead of all purpose and whole wheat flour.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Sharon Palmer.

Courtesy of Sharon Palmer

Mushroom Bomb Lentil Pasta

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

1 8-oz package lentil pasta

3 Tbsp truffle oil or extra-virgin olive oil

1 lb mixed mushrooms (enoki, shiitake, cremini, hen of the woods, maitake, oyster), coarsely sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp chopped fresh or dried thyme

1 cup dry white wine

Sea salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cook lentil pasta in boiling water according to package directions. Rinse and drain.

While pasta is cooking, heat truffle oil in a large sauté pan and add mushrooms, garlic and thyme. Sauté for 3 minutes. Add white wine and continue sautéing for an additional 5 minutes to reduce liquid and make a more concentrated sauce. Add cooked pasta to mushroom mixture and toss together. Season as desired with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Sharon Palmer.

Courtesy of Sharon Palmer

Health Benefits of Yoga

Resolving Trauma and Other Mind-Body Challenges

by Carrie Gauthier

The first known reference to yoga is in the Upanishads Sanskrit texts, written 2,500 years ago. The practice originally comprised breath work, and the physical postures developed over time. According to the global data platform Statista, nearly 34 million Americans practice numerous types of yoga, while science continues to provide evidence of its healing potential.

Calming Effects

With the frenetic pace of life today, many people live in a permanent state of anxiety. Yoga can ease the panic and malaise by activating the parasympathetic nervous system to decrease stress hormones, blood pressure and heart rate.

“Yoga therapy differs from traditional psychotherapy in scope and aim. Rather than delving into traumas, yoga empowers individuals to be present, moving away from personal narratives,” says Adam Flores, a certified yoga therapist from Port St. Lucie, Florida, specializing in addiction and mental health. “Trained yoga therapists offer grounding techniques and skillful check-ins, especially for trauma cases, improving heart rate variability, vagal tone and overall nervous system health.”

Mental Health Benefits

A 2011 meta-analysis study published in Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders indicates that yoga may be an effective treatment

option for severe mental illness, with the added advantage of being less toxic than pharmaceutical treatments.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant issue facing the U.S. military and a growing problem for teens that have experienced violent or traumatizing events. Conventional treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing have shown limited effectiveness due to high dropout and nonresponse rates. On the other hand, studies have found that engaging in yoga and other mind-body practices can reduce intrusive memories, avoidance and emotional arousal symptoms, as well as anxiety, depression and anger associated with PTSD.

Yoga therapy improves critical factors in addiction recovery, including emotional balance, mental clarity and stress reduction. In a 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, yoga for the treatment of substance abuse disorder was determined to be an effective option.

Popular Yoga Disciplines

Yoga has developed into a variety of styles that can meet the goals and objectives of their practitioners. Some of the more popular formats include:

• Vinyasa: An up-tempo class of postures or poses (asanas) often accompanied by high-energy music that typically results in a consistently elevated heart rate. A 2017 study published in The FASEB Journal found that eight weeks of vinyasa yoga improved physical fitness, relieved stress and improved mental well-being.

• Yin: This form of yoga focuses on gentle, passive stretches held for one to three minutes, offering ample opportunity to release stress and tension. Poses are often supported by props such as bolsters, straps, blocks, pillows and blankets. Long, slow, deep breathing promotes relaxation to help the practitioner hold each pose for

extended periods of time. Yin yoga stimulates and stretches fascia, the thin connective tissue throughout the body, as well as ligaments and joints, resulting in increased flexibility.

• Hatha: This is a classic yoga style involving breathing exercises and poses that are held for longer periods of time than other formats. Although the slower, more meditative pace may seem easier, holding a proper pose for extended periods of time can be challenging for the body and mind. According to a 2018 study in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 12 sessions of hatha yoga significantly reduced stress, anxiety and depression in women.

• Kundalini: This yoga style prioritizes spiritual growth and awareness, with a focus on energy and chakras. Kundalini awakenings are common via movement sequences, breath work, mantras and chanting. Different studies in 2021 found that kundalini yoga is an effective short-term therapy for generalized anxiety disorder and can be helpful in reducing the severity of insomnia.

Maintaining Self-Esteem

One of the core tenets of a yogic practice is self-compassion, and it is important to resist the inclination for negative self-talk. To adopt the yogic way is to choose happiness over suffering.

“In my experience, the best healing experiences happened by tapping into the body and unlocking the energies we hold onto,” says Paty Renda, a certified Ananda hatha yoga instructor and co-owner of Premah Wellness, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “I believe in serious work done through fun exercises such as breath, dance, laughter and movement. A simple, slow and deep hatha yoga practice can create profound changes. Gratitude is another very easy, and yet immensely powerful, practice I infuse into everything I do.”

Carrie Gauthier is a writer in the healing arts with interests in clinical and transpersonal hypnotherapy.

Natural Solutions for Alopecia

In Search of a Full Head of Hair

by Zak Logan

For many of us, our hair can feel like an outward expression of our identity, and we may struggle emotionally and socially when it is compromised. According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, an estimated 6.7 million Americans suffer or have suffered from alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune disease resulting in hair loss on the scalp, face and other parts of the body. Whether AA manifests as bald patches or complete hair loss, the conventional courses of action may involve oral prescription medication, over-the-counter topical products and oral or injected steroids that are often unsuccessful and may come with side effects.

There is evidence that stress and anxiety can play a role in AA, as can certain underlying health conditions such as thyroid disease, celiac disease and lupus. Hormonal imbalances and vitamin and mineral deficiencies can also be key factors. Although AA can be a stubborn condition, alternative approaches such as centuries-old Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture, can offer hope.

Ayurvedic Techniques

According to allopathic medicine, AA may be caused by hormonal imbalances or an excessive immune response that attacks the hair follicles, but from the perspective of Eastern medicine, the issue is more complex. Ayurveda, India’s 5,000-year-old holistic-health system, approaches AA and other health conditions from the concept of individual constitution. Energetic forces called doshas are believed to be inherent in all

Mariya Chichina from Getty Images/CanvaPro

cells and organ systems and embody five natural elements: earth, air, fire, water and ether.

“Our doshic makeup is very unique, with the ratios between the three doshas (vata, pitta and kapha) being different for each one of us. In alopecia, it is most commonly seen as a pitta condition when the metabolic fires within us are excessive and too hot, causing inflammation,” says Virender Sodhi, an Ayurvedic and naturopathic physician in Redmond, Washington. He adds that for alopecia cases caused by thyroid disorders, in which the hair becomes dry and brittle before falling out, he would look into the health of a person’s vata, the dosha that corresponds to the element of air.

A 2022 case study of an individual AA patient published in Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine reported that the patient saw improvement within 15 days of an Ayurvedic treatment plan that included a combination of cleansing, detoxification, blood purification and naturally derived medications. The researchers recommended further study of these techniques. Another study published in the same journal a year later noted the effectiveness of certain Ayurvedic medicines comprised of natural elements, combined with cupping, in which heated cups are placed on the back, stomach, arms, legs or other parts of the body, forming a vacuum or suction force.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

From the approach of 3,000-year-old TCM, imbalances and illnesses are attributed to obstructions within the body’s subtle energetic system. “This is the concept of the life force, or the energy of our body as it takes care of itself,” explains Brian Keenan, a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist at Sagelight Integrative Wellness Center, in Columbia, Maryland. “In Chinese medicine, qi is the energy of the body, and it flows along a set pattern similar to a well-connected network of roads and highways. Meridians are the names of the major highways an acupuncturist will use to influence the qi flowing through them.”

In cases of alopecia, Keenan would dive deeply to find the origin of the pathology.

“The specifics of your symptoms will help an acupuncturist figure out where exactly the problem is coming from, since there can be several issues at once,” he explains. “This is why your acupuncturist may spend a great deal of time asking you detailed questions about every nuance of not just your symptoms but also your whole body’s health.”

A 2022 review of eight studies published in Frontiers of Medicine found that acupuncture or moxibustion (the burning of dried mugwort on or near the body during acupuncture), used by themselves or in combination with other treatment modalities, may be effective in treating hair loss.

Vitamin Fortification

Clinical findings published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology in 2017 report that systemic vitamin D levels are lower in people with AA, and improvement might result from supplementation. Recent research also shows that zinc deficiency was noted in sufferers and adding the mineral to the diet might be helpful. Mount Sinai Health System, in New York City, suggests that biotin and trace minerals might foster hair growth and recommends including beneficial foods such as carrots, tomatoes, chard and romaine lettuce.

Lifestyle Changes

Practitioners of both Ayurveda and TCM attest to the value of eliminating processed foods as a way to support the liver in its role of minimizing systemic inflammation. They also recommended streamlining busy schedules and employing meditative practices to reduce stressors.

For best results, commitment is key. Regarding TCM, Keenan suggests an eightweek treatment plan of herbs and acupuncture. “Is it possible to see results sooner? Absolutely. But from my experience as a practitioner, it’s better to set realistic expectations, and if we get there sooner, then that’s all the better.”

Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to holistic living.

Emotional Healing as a Family

How Parents Can Model Mental Health Skills

by Christina Connors

The mental health of our children is in crisis. According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s 2021 advisory on the youth mental health crisis, one in five children aged 3 to 17 has a mental, emotional, behavioral or developmental disorder.

To turn the tide on mental health, kids need emotional regulation skills, including the ability to identify emotions, self-soothe, obtain perspective, walk in another’s shoes, think flexibly and solve problems. By developing these emotive sensitivities, children can then improve their self-confidence, sense of self-worth and empathy, as well as begin to develop lasting and meaningful relationships.

“Kids will learn to regulate in the face of challenge. The only question is whether they learn healthy or unhealthy ways to do it,” says Brad Chapin, a licensed clinical psychologist in Topeka, Kansas, and author of self-regulation resources for children. “Removing challenges from children isn’t the answer. The focus should be on building self-regulation skills, and then those challenges become opportunities for strengthening those skills.”

What Adults Can Do

In the words of lyricist Stephen Sondheim, “Careful the things you say / Children will listen.” Janet Philbin, LDSW, a certified,

conscious-parenting coach and author, says, “When people become parents, they will tell you they want to parent differently than how they were parented because of the emotional childhood pain they endured. However, generational patterns will more than likely repeat unless the parent has done the emotional work to deconstruct their own childhood pain through coaching or counseling. As a result of doing the necessary inner work, a parent’s ability to connect with their children will improve because they are able to be more connected with themselves.”

Practicing Emotional Regulation Together

“When we choose to look at behavior issues as a lack of skill-development, it changes the story from one of shame and negativity to one of hope,” says Chapin, whose recent book Self-Regulation Skill Set supports adults in their journey to self-regulation.

As with learning any new skill, practice is key. Here are a few fun activities for parents and children to do together to strengthen connections and build emotional regulation skills. Teaching kids when they are young is ideal, but it is never too late to start.

I Spy: While in a store, on a walk or at a park, challenge each other to notice the body language and facial expressions of people (or themselves) and identify the emotion they might be feeling. This game is a way to practice the skill set of recognizing warning signs when we start to feel upset. Parents should encourage their kids to take notice of the different expressions their peers make while at school to develop empathy and compassion.

The Paws (Pause) Game: To play, the first person who sees a dog says, “paws”, takes a calming breath and puts their hands out like paws. The person with the most points at the end of the excursion wins. This game develops the skill of slowing down the alarm system within our bodies. Parents and caregivers can remind kids that throughout the day when they start to feel their own warning signs of anger or frustration, they can take a breath and “paws” to help prevent acting in a destructive way.

Balloon Party: In this game, parents invite their kids to sit comfortably with them and imagine that they are all preparing for a big party and need to blow up lots of balloons. While blowing up pretend balloons, remind each child to blow them up slowly so they don’t pop. After blowing up several balloons, enjoy a pretend party. This is a fun way to connect with children through imaginative play while practicing peaceful breathing, which helps calm the nervous system.

Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of Christina’s Cottage, a YouTube series to strengthen kids’ resilience, connection and joy through music, mindful play and the power of the heart. Learn more at ChristinasCottage444.com.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

Fall Gardening with Native Plants –6-7pm. Learn about ornamental invasive plants and their native counterparts as well as landscaping practices that can help pollinators. Oryana West, 3587 Marketplace Cir, Traverse City. Oryana.coop. Home Conservation Practices to Create Better Habitat – 6-7pm. Fall is a great time to learn about the critical importance of landscaping with native plants vs non-native/invasive ornamentals. $10. Oryana West, 3587 Marketplace Cir, Traverse City. Oryana.coop.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

Sunset Paddle – 6:30-8pm. Guided tour explores Grass River by kayak with a naturalist and find out about GRNA’s conservation efforts, wetland plants, and wildlife while enjoying sundown. $40 includes tour, kayak, PFD and paddle. Grass River Education Center, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire. GrassRiver.org.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Clean Waters Challenge: Healing the Bear – 9am-1pm. Join the Watershed Council to help preserve the beauty and health of the Bear River. Bear River Shelter, Petoskey. More info &m to register: WatershedCouncil.org.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

Beyond Tomatoes: Canning with Timothy Young – 6-8pm. Class covers both hot bath and pressure canning, the basic science involved, tools needed, and offers recipes and demonstrations. $40-$45. Oryana West, 3587 Marketplace Cir, Traverse City. Oryana.coop.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Paddle Antrim Festival – Sept 12-14. Celebrates the amazing waterways and communities of Northern Michigan. Includes a 2-day paddle event through the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. Register: PaddleAntrim. com/festival.

Field Social – 6-8pm. Mix and mingle with our brewers and farmers, sample one of our limited-edition Farmhouse Ales around the bonfire. Flowers from the farm available for free mini-floral workshops. Weather dependent. Free. Farm Club, 10051 Lake Leelanau Dr, Traverse City. FarmClubTC.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Perch Lake Addition Hike – 10am-12pm. Explore the proposed “Excelsior” Perch

Lake addition to Upper Manistee Headwaters: The Milock Family Nature Preserve. Registration required: gtrlc.org.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Lake Leelanau, Spirit of the Lake Documentary Showing – 4:30pm. Introduction by staff, documentary that runs 23 mins, followed by a Q&A. Produced by the Leelanau Historical Society and directed by Keith Patterson of Manitou Films. The Bay Theatre, 214 N St Joseph St, Suttons Bay. Tickets: TheBayTheatre.com.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Field Social – 6-8pm. See Sept 12 listing. Farm Club, 10051 Lake Leelanau Dr, Traverse City. FarmClubTC.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

Conservation Center Tour – 5:30-6:30pm. A tour of the buildings and grounds at Mitchell Creek Meadows: The Don and Jerry Oleson Preserve. Mitchell Creek Meadows: The Don and Jerry Oleson Preserve, 2846 3 Mile Rd N, Traverse City. Registration required: gtrlc.org.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Night at the Farm: A Fall Celebration –6-8pm. Warm up by the fire, engage in autumnal storytelling, and finish the night by setting your intentions for the new season. $15/person or $40 for a group of 3 or more. Great Lakes Incubator Farm, 1091 N Keystone Rd, Traverse City. Registration required: NatureIsCalling.org.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Field Social – 6-8pm. See Sept 12 listing. Farm Club, 10051 Lake Leelanau Dr, Traverse City. FarmClubTC.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Made in Cheboygan Craft Show – Sept 28-29. 10am-6pm, Sat; 11am-5pm, Sun. Featuring more than 30 crafters and artists. Washington Park, Downtown

Cheboygan. Facebook.com/madein cheboygan.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

Mushroom Cultivation Workshop –2-4pm. Join Grand Traverse Conservation District and Great Lakes Mushroom Company for a hands-on educational workshop about mushroom cultivation. $45. Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd, Traverse City. Registration required: NatureIsCalling.org.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

Gyrokinesis Group Class Teacher Training – Requires no equipment and includes a 6-day pretraining for $1,050 on Sept 29, 30 and Oct 1, 5, 6, 7, followed by a 9-day Foundation course for $1,575 from Oct 1929 (2 days off). Movement in Action, 148 E Front St, Ste 205, Traverse City. 517-203-1113. MiaTraverseCity.com.

Ongoing Events

DAILY

Infinite Path Martial Arts Customized Virtual Learning – For self-defense and fitness with Christopher Scafone. More info: 248-284-3242, IPMAContact@yahoo. com or InfinitePath.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.

Holistic Health Consultation – 9am-7pm. Online or phone consultation consultations last about 1 hr and are provided by Certified Xolar Vibronics Holistic Educator and Life Coach Ikaro Phoenix. Be introduced to various techniques, elements or holistic ways of viewing the situation which help the soul to be reeducated and empowered to deal with problems and eliminate them from their root. $150. For appt: LivingWisdomCoaching.earth. Naturally Purifying and Supercharging Your Body Podcast – 7-7:45pm. Matthew Hazen is the owner of Human Consciousness Support, a company that produces a unique nutraceutical product called MasterPeace. Free. BuzzSprout. com/1206776/14236700.

SUNDAYS

Kundalini Yoga – 10am. A dynamic, powerful tool that is designed to give you an experience of your energetic body. All lev-

els. 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. Karasi FitnessAndHealingArts.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

Charlevoix Senior Center Veteran Social & Lunch – 9am-1pm. 1st Tues. Honoring our veterans. Social beginning at 9am and Free Lunch for Veterans 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.

Spiritual Guidance and Readings – 11am7pm. With Julie Chai. Receive various forms of spiritual consultations such as clairvoyant readings, aura healings, oracle

card interpretations and past life readings. $1/min. Higher Self Bookstore, 313 E Front St, Traverse City. For appt: 231-941-5805. HigherSelfBookstore.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: Juneberry Cottage.com.

Traverse City Women’s Circle – 6pm. 2nd Tues. With Be Here Now Baby. Offering women a safe space to connect, share and empower each other. Donation. Dharamsala TC, 869 Robinwood Ct, Traverse City. 231-421-3808. DharamsalaTC.com.

5 Hidden Gems in Your Normal Blood Work – 8-9pm. Join Dr. Jena for her Bloodwork Webinar and learn 5 hidden gems that can help you go from unhealthy to healthy. Free. Blood Expert.com.

WEDNESDAYS

Empowerment Circle – 5:30-6:30pm. See Tues listing. Pure Essence Wellness Center, 1240 E 8th St, Traverse City. 231499-8595. HeatherZigler.com.

Community Slow Roll TC – 6-8pm. With Norte Youth. A weekly ride from Oryana to The Little Fleet. The route is 3-5 miles and the pace is accommodating for all abilities. 260 E Tenth St, Traverse City. 231883-2404. Hello@NorteYouthCycling.org. NorteYouthCycling.org.

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.

Adrenal Fatigue? – 8-9pm. Grab your latest bloodwork and let’s dive into your labs and let me teach you how to look for hidden answers. Free. Bloodwork Expert.com.

THURSDAYS

Cultivating Gratitude Sessions – 9am6pm. Join Candice for a 1-on-1 Zoom session focused on cultivating gratitude. We will walk through the 5 stages of cultivating gratitude (safety, open, notice, appreciate, express), learn what genuine gratitude feels like in your body, then find ways to bring more of it into your day-today life. $33. Tinyurl.com/6vhzuycp. Weekly Facebook Live with Dr. McSwain – 5:30-6pm. 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. The Thyroid Panel: Get the Real Story of What’s Happening with Your Thyroid –8-9pm. Learn about the real bloodwork panel you need to get answers as to why you feel the way you do. Free. Blood Expert.com.

FRIDAYS

Gyrokinesis Group Class – 8:45-9:45am. Educate your spine how to sit, stand and move with ease throughout your day. Suitable for those with spinal ailments and powerful enough for those who love working out. $20/class; $100/6 classes. Bodies In Motion, 10660 E Carter Rd, Traverse City. 231-392-1241. MiaTraverse City.com.

Online: Prayer Power Hour – 12-12:30pm. Prayer changes things. Our goal is simple: to love you, pray for you, and introduce you to our loving Creator, the Great Healer. Free. Tinyurl.com/PrayerPowerHour.

Sacred Drum Circle – Thru Oct. 7pm. 2nd Fri. No experience necessary. No drum necessary, but feel free to bring an acoustic item of your own making. Free. The House of Bear, 4242 Co Rd 633, Grawn. 231-383-0803. Tinyurl.com/3wxk8uaz.

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.

Outdoor Farmers Market at the Village –Thru Oct. 1-5pm. Presented by The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Free admission. The Piazza, between Cottageview and Red Dr, Traverse City. TheVillageTC. com/farmers-market.

Advanced Wellness

EARTH LABS

317a E Front St, Traverse City 231-421-1490

EarthLabsHeal.com

Subtle modalities including sound, light, frequency and thrmogenic therapies to enhance and transform your quality of life. Our techno-therapy will reduce pain and restore energy.

NATURE'S TRADING POST

Covering all of Northern MI NaturesTradingPost.com

Nature’s Trading Post

Offering natural smokeless tobacco options. Delivered free within Northern MI. See ad page 29

Aromatherapy

Cooking & Tea Brewing

SPICE & TEA MERCHANTS

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

SpiceMerchants.biz/traverse-city-spice-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 17.

EMF Investigator

GOOD WAVES EMF INVESTIGATOR

Serving Central to Northern MI 231-714-0477

EMFInvestigator.com

Healthy Food

PROVIDENCE ORGANIC FARM, CAFÉ & NATURAL FOOD MARKET

5695 N Michigan 88, Central Lake 231-599-2020

ProvidenceOrganicFarm.com

Charming farm-market, cafe and natural foods store at their farm, featuring organic espresso and tea bar, kombucha on tap, organic produce and meats, local honey, maple syrup, eggs, cheese, gift items and much more. See ad page 20.

Healthy Home

IRISH PAINTING OF NAPLES

989-275-9976

ROSY GLOW AROMATHERAPY

Margo Hertzfeld, Certified Aromatherapist 419-360-0169

RosyGlowWellness.com

Clinically certified aromatherapist offers holistic consultations with customized blends of professional quality essential oils. Trust Margo to help you understand the complicated world of aromatherapy. Her holistic approach can help you maximize your benefits from this powerful therapy and minimize side effects. Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to integrate natural healing into your life. Phone consultations are available.

naturestradingpost.com (989) 275-9976

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 15.

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 them. See ad on back cover.

Functional Medicine

BIG BEAUTIFUL LIFE WELLNESS CENTER

515 S. Union St, Traverse City 231-421-9189

BigBeautifulChiropractic.com

Specializing in hormonal balancing for women and root cause resolution. Ever been told that your blood work is "normal" yet you still have unexplainable symptoms? Dr. Jena is a Functional Blood Expert and specializes in finding hidden answers in the blood work that you already have to take you from unhealthy to healthy. Telehealth and in-person appontments are available. See ad page 23.

Offering full exterior & interior painting for Northern Michigan. We also offer low & zero VOC paints for the most economical Healthy home.

Holistic Wellness

WATERSIDE WELLNESS

212 River St, 2nd Floor, Elk Rapids WatersideWellnessER@gmail.com 231-632-4408

WatersideWellness.co

Our mission is to provide a safe and judgement- free healing space! We offer group and private guided meditations, Primordial Sound Meditation, and tailored massage therapy sessions. Stay tuned, more to come!

Medical/Chiropractic Physicians

THE HEALTH HUB

3492 W Park Rd, Luzerne, MI 48636 (corner of M72/Deeter Rd)

TheHealthHubLLC@gmail.com 989-745-2898

TheHealthHubLLC.com

The mission of The Health Hub is to provide health care rather than sick care; to look beyond just the symptoms, understand the root cause, prevent future disease and restore health; implemented with genuine concern for our clients. See ad page 21.

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 11.

Natural Foods

EDSON FARMS

835 S Garfield Ave, Traverse City 231-941-5221

EdsonFarms.com

Good for mind, body and soul. Open since 1979 Edson Farms Natural Foods is a Northern Michigan favorite. With impeccable customer service, we have an organic deli and juice bar, coffee bar, produce, groceries, supplements, herbs, bulk foods, allergen friendly foods, body care, coffees and tea, and local products. See ad page 7.

734-883-8775

Lose weight now with hypnosis. Achieve permanent positive life and habit changes through our safe, rapid and effective system. Tap the potential of your mind to create the health and vitality you’ve always wanted.

Three-Day Conference with Five Farm-to-Table Meals ($450 members; $500 non-members)

One-day and two-day registration passes available 40 speakers • 75 exhibitors • 1200 attendees Saturday Night Banquet • Volunteer

Optional: Thursday Evening: Real Milk Celebration Dinner

Monday: Farm Tour with Will Winter and Steve Campbell CEUs for nurses, acupuncturists & NANP

•

Hundreds and hundreds of authentic, compelling testimonials — PolarAid® encourages the overall health of the body:

“This will be the fourth PolarAid I’ve purchased! I fully believe in this product and its healing power! I’ve given them to family members and we’ve all had great success with it.” C.A.T. (Vista, CA)

NATIONAL PRODUCT PICKS

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Founded in 1932, Boiron, the world leader in homeopathic medicines, is best known for its popular Arnicare® line of pain relievers and Oscillococcinum® flu reliever.

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