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contents 9 5 newsbriefs balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal 9 healthbriefs growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle. 12 globalbriefs 14 ecotip 17 DEEP-HEALING YOGA 1 7 healingways Release Trauma, Build Resilience 12 20 wisewords 20 THE ALLURE 23 healthykids OF CONFIDENCE 28 consciouseating Supermodel Sarah DeAnna’s Universal Beauty Secrets 34 fitbody 23 36 greenliving 23 WHAT PEACE MEANS TO CHILDREN 4 1 calendar The World We All Need 14 43 classifieds 44 naturaldirectory 24 WHOLE-BEING 24 WORKOUTS Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more
by Sarah Todd
by April Thompson
by Kids for Peace
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 616-656-9232 or email: Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for space reservation is the 12th of each month prior to publication.
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Moving the Body Opens the Door to Spirit by Lisa Marshall
28 SUGAR MONSTER How Sweet It Isn’t by Kathleen Barnes
32 EDIBLE HORMONES
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34 STAYING POWER by Debra Melani
38 SCHOOLS GO GREEN
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letterfrompublishers
W
e can all rejoice that each year people around the world celebrate an International Day of Peace on September 21. Even though I’m not generally the sentimental type, reading “What Peace Means to Children,” on page 23, reduced me to tears. With worldly experience, our view of possibilities for the world can become so tainted that seeing life afresh through children’s eyes becomes eye opening. So, I decided to make my own list of what peace means to me.
contact us Publishers Kyle & Amy Hass Editors S. Alison Chabonais Amanda Merritt Linda Sechrist Design & Production Interactive Media Design Scott Carvey Printer Stafford Media Solutions Natural Awakenings 484 Sunmeadow Dr. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508 Phone: 616-656-9232 Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com
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Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (12 issues) to the above address. © 2013 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. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. 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. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY Natural Awakenings is locally owned and operated.
Ultimate peace is: A world without war, where we all live in harmony together. Countries that have no need of soldiers, just heroes around every corner. Societies in which no one sees skin color, only human beings each unique in the way we look. Economies where money governs neither individual nor national status or ethics. Communities where corruption, famine, homelessness and crime are unknown. A world where positive, glass-half-full thinking opens doors to endless progress everywhere. I imagine this place and long for a day for this world to exist. Until then my personal Peace Pledge is this: I pledge to love everyone with an open heart. I pledge not to judge people I encounter or other people tell me about. I pledge to see only people, not skin color. I pledge to do my best to regularly be someone’s hero. I pledge to help those in need. I pledge to manage finances in ways that reflect moral integrity and simple living. I pledge to keep a positive attitude even in tough times. Won’t you join me this September and make a list of what peace means to you while pledging to do better? It only takes one person to make a difference. Let’s all be that person we know who shifts the energies in a room in a good direction simply by walking in the door, at home, school and work. May we all do our part to help make this world a more peaceful place to live. Peace to all,
Amy Hass Publisher Never Glossy. Always Green. Natural Awakenings practices environmental sustainability by printing on post-consumer recycled paper with soy-based ink. This choice avoids the toxic chemicals and high energy costs of producing shiny, coated paper that is hard to recycle.
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newsbriefs Healthy Michigan Retreats
B
Martha & Jeff Gottlieb
eautiful Northeast Michigan is even more inviting with the opening of Expressions of Health in Oscoda. Overlooking the shoreline of Lake Huron, Expressions of Health offers unique, customized, healthy retreats. And
it doesn’t cost a thing to stay there! Owned and operated year-round by Martha and Jeff Gottlieb, guests are welcomed with open arms. “Retreat participants are truly our guests,” explains Martha. “We don’t charge for lodging, only for the wellness services we provide. And guests have full access to the entire house, including the kitchen and all outdoor amenities, such as kayaks, moonlit bonfires, swimming, and miles of beautiful beach to walk, jog or simply relax. “The array of wellness services provided is vast, as the Gottliebs maintain certifications as yoga instructors, reflexology and reiki practitioners, nutrition coaches and personal trainers. Massage is offered through a local massage therapist, and the gourmet and RAW food retreats feature local Chefs. Retreats are available for individuals, couples, families, or any group up to 6 people and are offered at a very affordable rate. For example, a healthy retreat up to three nights might include two yoga or other fitness classes, Reiki, reflexology, massage, two continental breakfasts, and full use of the home for just $250 per person. 10% of all proceeds are donated to support local health and wellness initiatives.
New Reflexologist Joins Local Spring Lake Gem
L
ocally acclaimed businesses, On The Path Yoga (OTPY) and Return 2 Wellness Nutritional Therapies have welcomed Reaiah True of Sacred Plane Reflexology to practice in their facility located at 701 E. Savidge in Spring Lake. Anne VanderHoek, owner of Return 2 Wellness says, “We are overjoyed to have Reaiah from Sacred Plane Reflexology join our Naturopathic office. She is one of the most talented practitioners I have ever met, and she has brought so much to our office.” The practice of Vibrational Reflexology is a vibrant, energetic, refreshing rejuvenation through a blend of Chinese, Japanese and Tibetan concepts. Reaiah True has been studying reflexology since 2007, initially for personal home use. When her husband urged her to pursue sharing the practice for several years, she finally agreed. Shortly thereafter, the opportunity to join Sandy Parker (of OTPY) and Anne opened up. “It is an honor to be associated with these ladies and their expertise,” says True. “Starting in September, I hope to incorporate the music modality with reflexology by bringing the Gu-Zhong in and playing a bit for each client. The pentatonic tones are ultrasoothing. In addition, I hope to connect the client with the audible equivalence of vibrational frequency.” For more information contact Sacred Plane Reflexology at 616-843-4563. For a valuable coupon, see ad on page 31.
Art of Teaching Yoga
D
oes teaching yoga make you nervous? Do you sweat, tingle and get short of breath? Teaching yoga (or anything) is not about perfection – it’s a process and a journey. Paraphrasing George Leonard in his wonderful book Mastery, a great teacher is one who is willing to face their fears and try,
More information about the healthy, healing retreats is available at ExpressionsOfHealth.com, the monthly Natural Awakenings calendar, or by contacting Martha and Jeff directly at info@expressionsofhealth.com or 989-7395498. See ad page 12 & 46. Mike Cohen
Harmony ‘n Health Colon Hydrotherapy
Mary A. DeLange C.C.T. C.M.T. 616-456-5033
Some Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy: ~ Remove Toxic Waste from ones body ~ Eradicate Constipation ~ Removes Stomach Bloat ~ Increase ones Energy
Therapeutic Massage also available
Mary@HarmonynHealth.net
www.HarmonynHealth.net natural awakenings
September 2013
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fail and try again. Teaching yoga is a complex practice. You are leading a group, working one-on-one with individuals and managing your own state. Guidance, support, community and practice are essential to grow into greater mastery. Join Master Somatic Coach Michael H. Cohen as he guides a group of yoga instructors through “Somatics and the Art of Teaching Yoga” this fall at Cascade Yoga Studio. Somatics teaches us how to learn from the inside out, rather than the outside in. This series will take your yoga teaching to the next level - whether you are a seasoned teacher or a recent trainee, you will gain great value from this unique learning experience. Nine hours of class time across three Saturdays this fall - $175. Maximum of 12 students. For more info email info@cascadeyogastudio.com or call 616-464-1610. Or, contact Mike at mike@mikecohenkirtan. com. See ad pages 16 & 18.
Living Well –
Grand Rapids Show
M
ark your calendars for January 10 & 11, 2014 as West Michigan’s only health and wellness show is coming back to DeVos Place when Living Well – Grand Rapids returns for its second year. At the show’s debut last January, thousands of consumers eager to learn about health-related products and services came together in one spot. This year’s show will be even bigger, says Show Manager Dawn Baker, adding that no health-related business can afford to miss this unique chance for marketing to motivated clients and customers. For a growing number of area residents interested in improving their health, fitness, and wellness, the show offers a unique chance to learn from experts about hundreds of ways to do just that. “We’re planning even bigger things that make the show an exciting opportunity for anyone in the wellness business to share their products or services with potential customers,” Baker says. “The show will offer classes, competitions, seminars, demonstrations and health screenings as well.”
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A broad array of exhibitors representing everything from health insurance plans and hospitals to alternative health services; from birthing centers to assisted living facilities; from child development centers to fitness clubs; plus, life coaching and much more will be at this two-day event. If your business focuses on health, fitness, or wellness, don’t miss being part of West Michigan’s only show that’s completely devoted to improving all aspects of health! Exhibitor brochures are available at www.showspan.com/ lwg/brochurerequest.aspx. See ad page 37.
The Difference Meditation Makes
S
pending 12 incredible years as Eknath Easwaran’s student, Marsha Grice was interested in meditation because of anxiety, depression and a feeling of emptiness, as if life had no real purpose. “I read a book by Easwaran. There was a certain clarity and depth to his writing and on DVD his presence was Eknath Easwaran inspiring and very peaceful,” says Grice. Over time meditation and the practice of the allied skills are healing to emotions and can change the way of thinking and looking at life. Easwaran opened the door in a most credible way to a world of healing and spirituality. An introductory to Passage Meditation will be held from 7:00-8:00pm on September 26 at Unity of Grand Rapids located at 1711 Walker Ave. Interested adults are welcome, no registration needed, free will offering. Introduction includes books and tapes by Easwaran, a sharing on meditation and the allied skills, instructions for and a ten minute period of meditation, and DVD of Easwaran, called one of the foremost teachers of meditation in our times. For more information visit www.Easwaran.org.
Growing Older - Becoming Wiser Workshop
A
re you approaching your 5th or 6th decade? Do you love being who you are at your age? As you continue to learn and grow into your own unique wisdom, compassion, humor, courage and vitality, Circle of Crones invites you to share support and experiences with peers at Growing Older‌Becoming Wiser Workshop on September 14 from 1:00-4:00pm at Briar Lane Apartments Community Bldg located at 450 Briar Lane, NE in Grand Rapids. Sponsored by Circle of Crones, a growing group of women since 2004, whose mission is to explore positive aspects of aging and to empower women to celebrate and meet the challenges of the 3rd stage of life. Please contact Jan at janistz@hotmail.com or 616-920-4760.
Fall Meditation Retreat
T
he Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness invites you to reconnect with your mind and body with guided practices centering around mindfulness and compassion. Extensive research has shown that our health and well-being can be enhanced by a range of mindfulness practices. Mindfulness meditation becomes even more powerful in combination with the practice of compassion, which can provide a buffer against negative feelings and is associated with greater life satisfaction.
This retreat led by April Hadley & Carol Hendershot, will provide training in mindfulness and compassion, as well as guidance in gentle yoga, walking and breathing. The Mindfulness and the Heart retreat on October 4-6 will be held at Barothy Lodge in Walhalla, Michigan. It is open to new meditators and to experienced practitioners alike. Practice instructions will provide a framework throughout the retreat. Talks by the instructors and small group discussions will encourage personal reflection and application. Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n v i s i t w w w. GrandRapidsCenterForMindfullness.com. Call 616-3613660 to register. See ad page 27.
The Art of Ascension as Taught by The Ishayas
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scension is both spiritual and scientific and works regardless of belief. The practice is used both with eyes open, which helps keep one present so they are more effective and efficient in their daily activities; and as a meditation with eyes closed, which takes one directly into the Source of all healing, pure joy, endless peace, and infinite potential. Stress then naturally dissolves as a by-product. Ascension is taught in a First Sphere Weekend format, which is both informative and experiential. Based on Praise, Gratitude, Love & Compassion, the techniques of Ascension are individually shared and experienced during the Course.
(616) 301-3000 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids (across the street from the Breton Village Mall)
www.grchirospa.com
Treatment of
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September 2013
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The First Sphere Workshop is a transformative and life changing experience. It is simple, natural and highly effective. Come and join the teachers, who will be in Wyoming this September facilitating a First Sphere Weekend on September 20-22 from 7:00-10:00pm on Friday and 10:00am-5:00pm on Saturday & Sunday. Registration is required so please call today. Below is a link to the upcoming events & course schedule www. theishayafoundation.org/courses.php. Join them for a Free Introductory Talk on this practice being held at Schuler Books & Music, 3165 Alpine Ave in Walker on September 19 at 8:00pm. To register or for more information, contact 573-261-9373 or email: ishaya.arya@gmail.com. See ad page 25.
10th Annual Salmon Festival
T
he Downtown Grand Haven waterfront will be bubbling with family friendly activities this September as the Grand Haven Area Convention and Visitors Bureau hosts the 10th Annual Grand Haven Salmon Festival, a multi-faceted festival that pays tribute to the area’s bountiful waterways as a natural resource, while coinciding with the region’s annual Salmon migration. Grand Haven Salmon Festival, a three-day festival slated for September 13-15 in downtown Grand Haven. The Salmon Festival has a dedicated Green Team, in order to be more environmentally friendly. These efforts earned them the Best Green Practice Award at the Michigan Festivals and Events annual conference. “We are pleased with the amount of community and partner support we have received on our journey towards sustainability,” states festival and Visitors Bureau director Marci Cisneros. The outdoor-waterfront festival features live jazz music; Michigan wine tasting pavilion featuring Michigan’s top wineries and grape stomping; gourmet salmon cook-off contest; fall harvest beer & entertainment pavilion; naturalist
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themed art fair; salmon fishing contest with weigh-in/awards ceremony; mouth-watering food and beverage treats at the fish boil; hands-on children’s nature-themed arts & crafts activities; and educational, environment-focused exhibits, displays, workshops and more. Visit www.visitgrandhaven.com for more information and a schedule of events.
Yoga for Fertility
Y
oga for Fertility is a unique form of yoga designed to prepare the body, mind and spirit for new life. This series takes place Sundays from 2:00-3:30pm on September 29th to November 3rd. It will provide support, education, guided meditations and specially selected yoga poses to open the pelvis, stimulate reproduction, and awaken Raechel Morrow energy channels associated with reproduction. You will learn techniques to calm anxiety and let go of negative thinking as you discover new ways to become fertile and powerful in all areas in your life. Cost is only $120 and includes home practice guide and education from fertility specialist. Contact Cascade Yoga Studio at 616-464-1610 to sign up. Visit www.CascadeYogaStudio.com for more information. See ad page 16 & 18.
Kudos
Kelsey Turek
EcoTrek Fitness, the locallyowned West Michigan company offering unique group outdoor workouts since May of 2006, is thrilled to welcome Kelsey Turek as the newest addition to the leadership team at EcoTrek Fitness, as Lakeshore Series Leader. Turek’s series will have routes throughout Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg.
All schedules can be found online at EcoTrekfitness.com. See ads page 27 & 29.
healthbriefs
Jog or Walk to Live Longer
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Weightlifting Lowers Heart Disease and Diabetes Risks
F
ewer than 10 percent of Americans regularly lift weights, but perhaps more of us should, according to a study in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. Scientists at the University of North Florida, in Jacksonville, found that weightlifters had a 37 percent reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors linked to heart disease and diabetes. Previous research has linked having greater muscle strength and mass (results of weightlifting) to lower rates of metabolic syndrome. People with three out of five risk factors—a large waist (more than 40 inches for men, more than 35 inches for women), high triglycerides and low levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, high blood pressure and high blood sugar—may be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. The researchers also analyzed data from the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which showed that young men were most likely to do regular weightlifting, while women, older people and Latinos were least likely. The survey statistics support the conclusion that non-weightlifters are more likely to exhibit metabolic syndrome.
slow jog around the block a few times a week can prolong life. The Copenhagen City Heart Study monitored 1,878 joggers for 30 years and found that 44 percent of these subjects are less likely to prematurely die from any cause than non-runners. Males and females that continued to jog regularly added 6.2 years and 5.6 years, respectively, to their average lifespans. It only takes 1.5 hours of slow-to-average-pace jogging a week to reap the longevity benefits. Walking is also beneficial; the National Institutes of Health says it can add up to 4.5 years to the average life expectancy. Seventy-five minutes of brisk walking a week can add 1.8 years to life expectancy after age 40, according to study results cited in PLOS Medicine.
Yoga Relieves Back Pain
C
ould a simple yoga class ease chronic back pain? Yes, say researchers in two recent studies. Scientists at the University of Washington found that subjects reported a 61 percent decrease in back pain when practicing yoga in a 12-week period compared with doing simple stretching. The researchers attributed their findings, published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, to yoga’s physical and breathing exercises and how they increase awareness and relaxation. Another project, funded by Arthritis Research UK, showed that Britons with long-term back pain that took a 12-week yoga course reported 75 percent fewer sick days.
BACK TO SCHOOL =BACK TO YOU! Fall Group Yoga Classes Start September 9! BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL…
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September 2013
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Your surroundings subtly affect your emotional, physical and mental state.
Let your interior nurture you Complete interior design services that align your physical space with your personal expression.
Resonate within your space and elevate your wellbeing! Feng Shui Green design Holistic design approach Repurposing your existing treasures
Align Design LLC Shawn Merkel - ASID, IIDA 616-916-1071
aligndesigngr.com
healthbriefs
The Humble Apple May Ace Cancer
A
pples are among the world’s most healing superfoods, thanks to their abundant fiber and heart-healthy nutrient properties. New research shows that an apple a day may also help keep cancer away. Two major independent cancer research projects, from Poland and Uruguay, confirm that daily apple consumption can cut the risk of colorectal cancer in half, a unique value among all fruits or vegetables. Other studies documented at GreenMedInfo.com suggest that apples contain components geared to help stop the growth of liver, breast, esophageal, stomach and multi-drug-resistant cancers. Additional research further associates the fruit with relieving diarrhea in children, soothing bowel inflammation in adults, preventing flu, facilitating weight loss, protecting against gum disease, maintaining brain cells and even slowing the aging process.
Antibacterials May Make Kids Allergy-Prone
A
dults’ obsession with antibacterial soaps, toothpastes and other personal care products may be making our children more prone to many allergies, according to research from the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, in Baltimore, Maryland. While not the direct cause, researchers say such products may impair the development of children’s immune systems. In a study of 860 children between the ages of 6 and 18, researchers found elevated levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in children from households where these products were used. IgEs increase when exposed to allergy-causing substances like pollen, pet dander and certain foods. Urine levels of triclosan, an antibacterial agent used in soaps, mouthwash and toothpaste, provided the strongest link to increased IgE levels and increased allergy risk. Parabens, preservatives with antimicrobial properties commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, lotions and body washes, were strongly associated with allergies to pollen and pet dander. These results confirm the “hygiene hypothesis” that society’s focus on cleanliness has actually prevented children from getting dirty and developing strong immune systems that are regularly challenged and strengthened by pathogens, say researchers.
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Protein for Breakfast Curbs Food Cravings
S
kipping breakfast or eating sugary breakfast breads and cereals sets us up for increased appetite all day long, while protein-rich food effectively satiates us, according to a recent University of Missouri-Columbia study. Subjects were 20 overweight young women, ages 18 to 20, divided into three groups: those that skipped breakfast, ate cereal, or enjoyed a 350-calorie, high-protein breakfast of eggs and lean meat. Researchers tracking brain function concluded that those eating the high-protein breakfast were better able to control their eating throughout the day and evening. For people that don’t currently eat breakfast, lead researcher Heather Leidy, Ph.D., an assistant professor of nutrition and exercise physiology, says it only takes about three days to acclimate the body. Leidy suggests first trying plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese or egg or meat burritos. Aim for 35 grams of protein in the morning for all-day control of food cravings.
Hair to Dye For
T
hree-quarters of American women are interested in changing their hair color, particularly to cover gray, according to a Clairol study. But other studies show they should be wary of most traditional hair dyes and consider natural alternatives. A study from the University of Southern California published in the International Journal of Cancer, for example, identified women using permanent hair dyes at least once a month to be at the highest risk for bladder cancer. As early as 2007, the European Union banned 22 potentially dangerous chemicals in cosmetic and body care products, including hair dyes. In the journal Materials last year, British researchers warned of the increased cancer risk from toxic chemicals called secondary amines, found in European- and U.S.-manufactured permanent hair dyes, because they remain on the hair for extended periods long after application and can penetrate skin. Meanwhile, increasing demand by consumers for safer products has expanded the market for natural hair dyes containing henna, oils and extracts from berries and other fruits, plus vegetables. Many are now available at pharmacies, organic salons and online, including do-it-yourself recipes.
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Freebie Fruit
Online Mapping Points the Way Falling Fruit (FallingFruit.org), created by Caleb Philips, co-founder of Boulder Food Rescue, and Ethan Welty, a photographer and geographer based in Boulder, Colorado, uses a map to cite locations of fruits and vegetables that are free to forage around the world. It looks like a Google map, with reported locations marked with dots. Zoom in and click on one to find a description of what tree or bush is there. The description often includes information about the best season to pluck plant fruits, the quality and yield, a link to the species’ profile on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website and additional advice on accessing the spot. Welty compiled most of the half-million or so locations from various municipal databases, local foraging organizations and urban gardening groups. Additionally, the map is open for Wikipedia-style public editing. He says, “Falling Fruit pinpoints all sorts of tasty trees in public parks, lining city streets and even hanging over fences from the UK to New Zealand.” It also lists beehives, public water wells and even dumpsters with excess food waste.
Too Busy to Cook?
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Providing you with healthy, delicious meals to enjoy in your own home! Call Today for a FREE Consultation
rachel johnson owner & chef 616.610.2596 rachel@relishyourfood.com www.relishyourfood.com 12
West Michigan Edition
Killing Fields
Neonicotinoid Pesticides Threaten Birds and Insects, Too Controversial neonicotinoid pesticides linked to catastrophic honeybee declines in North America and Europe may also kill other creatures, posing ecological threats even graver than feared, according to a new report by the American Bird Conservancy. It claims that dangers to birds and streamdwelling and soil-dwelling insects accidentally exposed to the chemicals have been underestimated by regulators and downplayed by industry. “The environmental persistence of the neonicotinoids, their propensity for runoff and for groundwater infiltration and their cumulative and largely irreversible mode of action in invertebrates raise environmental concerns that go well beyond bees,” according to the report co-authors, pesticide policy expert Cynthia Palmer and pesticide toxicologist Pierre Mineau, Ph.D., who both work for the nonprofit. They note that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency typically sets guidelines for bird exposures using laboratory tests on just two species, which ignores widely varying sensitivities among hundreds of other species. Scott Black, executive director of the Xerces Society, an invertebrate conservation group, says that integrated pest management (IPM), which combines precisely targeted chemical use with other, non-chemical means of pest control, can deliver industrial-scale yields in an environmentally sustainable way. To the detriment of wildlife, “[Our nation] has moved away from IPM, from scouting a farm, putting in habitat for beneficial insects and spraying only if there’s damage,” he warns. “With neonicotinoids, they don’t do that anymore,” instead returning to indiscriminate blanket spraying. Primary source: Tinyurl.com/ABCBirdReport
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Shellfish Solution
Bivalve Farming May Purify Fouled Waters Scientists are investigating whether mussels can be grown in urban areas as a way of cleansing coastal waters of sewage, fertilizers and other pollutants. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has placed an experimental raft at the mouth of New York City’s Bronx River with long tendrils seeded with geukensia demissa hanging beneath it. The two-year experiment will test whether the ribbed mussel can survive in the industrial and organic effluent found there. If it does, that could have implications for cleaning up coastal waters all over the world. The idea of using bivalves like mussels, oysters and clams to purify waterways has been on the minds of conservationists and scientists for decades. If the creatures can absorb enough nitrogen from the polluted water, it will prevent algae blooms that deprive waterways of the oxygen needed to support life. Other researchers also are investigating the beneficial effects of raising seaweed and kelp in conjunction with bivalves to clean coastal waters. Source: E360.yale.edu
Scrub Up
Cleaning the Environment a Step at a Time Unilever, one of the world’s largest consumer product companies, which makes Vaseline and Dove soaps, is doing away with a longtime manufacturing process because scientists and environmental groups are concerned that it contributes to polluting oceans. The company has decided to phase out the use of plastic micro-beads as a scrubbing agent in all personal care products by 2015. Small pieces of plastic material under five millimeters in diameter, referred to as micro-plastics, originate from a variety of different sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic materials in the water, the shedding of synthetic fibers from textiles during domestic clothes washing, and the micro-beads used for their abrasive properties in a range of consumer and industrial products.
It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver. ~Mahatma Gandhi
Fashion Freedom
Fair Trade Comes to Retail Clothing The revolution that started in food is expanding to clothing: origins matter. With fair trade coffee and organic fruit now standard on grocery shelves, consumers concerned with industry working conditions, environmental issues and outsourcing are now demanding similar accountability for their T-shirts. As a result, some retailers have started supplying information about how and where their products are made. “There’s real demand for sweat-free products,” observes Ian Robinson, Ph.D., a lecturer and research scientist at the University of Michigan who studies labor issues. “Consumers don’t have the information they need, and they do care.” The New York Times reported that a recent factory collapse in Bangladesh might play a part in changing that. Loblaw Companies Limited, the parent company of Joe Fresh, which produced clothing there, has vowed to audit factories more aggressively and compensate the victims’ families. “The apparel industry can be a force for good,” vows Galen G. Weston, Loblaw’s chairman. natural awakenings
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ecotip
Global Glamour Natural Beauty Aids from India
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The health and beauty aisle at Indian grocery stores includes several natural products in wide use among Indian women. Here are some popular ones available in America. Henna: Women mix powder from the henna plant with water to use as a natural hair dye and conditioner. Coconut oil: Indian women regularly massage a natural oil into their scalp before washing to keep their hair healthy and prevent the scalp from drying out and itching. “Coconut oil helps to grow hair long,” advises Bibya Malik, owner of Bibya Hair Design, a salon chain in Chicago. “It is probably the most widely used hair oil in the Indian subcontinent; amla oil, jasmine oil and other herbal oils are used, as well.” Rosewater: Most often used as a skin toner, some women also like to spray rosewater on their face as a refresher. Rosewater has a long history as a fragrance and as a flavoring in dessert recipes. Ubtan: This mixture of turmeric, gram (chickpea) flour and herbs is combined with milk or water as a beauty treatment. Indian brides scrub their skin with it in the days prior to their wedding. Source: Bibya Hair Design, research by Bushra Bajwa
Community Spotlight by Amanda Merritt
I
f anyone has created a space for their passions to collide in order to benefit others, it has been Cynthia Jones of Cj’s Studio Salon. With a desire to be an artist, Jones jumped into cosmetology after doing some office work in a salon and seeing the artistic potentiality in the field. 32 years later she still says that the artistic element of her career is what keeps her in the industry and that she’s loved developing the one-on-one relationships with her clients along the way. “Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky to have such wonderful clients,” said Jones when reflecting on the relationships she’s built within her career, “They become your friends and family.” In addition to the relationships she gets to form in her business, Jones’ passion for art is evident from the inside out as her salon is splattered with various pieces of local art and pieces of beautifully recycled vintage jewelry for sale (many of which were crafted by Jones herself). The creativity is coming off the walls, hanging from the ceiling, growing outside the windows and even covering the floor of the salon. The recycled jewelry and other various projects is just the start of the sustainability drive that Jones has at Cj’s Studio Salon. Along with an implemented recycling system in the salon, Cj’s also has a purse swap available to its clients where clients can sell their gently used purses and or purchase a gently used purse. They offer services that include organic hair products such as certified organic hair color, and they work solely with product lines that are also looking to be sustainable and ethical in practice, supporting the environment and excluding processes such as animal testing in the development of their products. Cj’s Studio Salon’s official greeter, Molly, a rescued Cockapoo is further proof that Jones and her crew are adamant about protecting the environment even through their passion
for animals. Jones is also a volunteer at Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary in her spare time and will happily spread the word on all of the great things going on there. Cj’s Studio Salon thrives on the arts, the stylist/client relationships that build, protecting the environment and offering healthier options than the average salon all while offering great services including but not limited to haircuts, hair coloring, texturing services, highlights, makeup, detox footbaths, waxing and even massage therapy by Pattie Kooy of Hands On Healing Professional Massage Therapy LLC. The salon is set up to create a relaxing, client-focused experience with semi-private stations barricaded from the rest of the salon by richly decorated walls, each with a window opening up to a lovely garden outside allowing clients to stay in touch with nature, offering a uniquely peaceful ambiance and contributing to the goal of bettering clients’ body, mind and soul amidst the services provided. With the many services available to its clients, Cj’s guarantees a highly trained professional, committed to providing each individual client with incredible, outstanding service. Be sure to stop into Cj’s Studio Salon for your next hair care service, to see all of the great things they have going on and experience all they have to offer. For more information or to schedule your appointment with Cj’s Studio Salon, call 616-364-9191, visit www.cjsstudiosalon. com or stop by the salon at 5286 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49525. NAN members receive 10% off any natural or organic haircare products. See ads pages 11 & 46. Amanda Merritt is a recent graduate of Cornerstone University with a degree in Communication Arts and Journalism/Public Relations. You can contact her at Mandi.Merritt@hotmail.com.
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yoga
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Grandville’s First Yoga Studio
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5570 Wilson Ave, Suite M. Grandville
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healingways
DEEP-HEALING YOGA Release Trauma, Build Resilience by Sarah Todd
W
Free Trial Classes Sept 4-7 New Series begins Sept 9 New Students Receive 15% Discount 955 Cherry S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49506 (616) 776-0836 for schedule & registration
www.gryoga.com
hen a woman separated from her husband last fall, she tried hard to shut down her emotions. A 30-year-old working mother of two young boys, she felt she couldn’t afford to be sad or angry, even as she contemplated divorce. But something shifted when she began taking yoga classes in her town in northern Michigan. “It was my one place to relax and let go,” says Emily, who asked that her real name stay private. “I used to go to class, get into a deep stretch and cry. It was like my muscles were connected with my heart. My instructor would warn us that certain poses would provide emotional releases, and sure enough, the tears would fall.” People suffering disruptive changes —from losing a loved one to coping with unemployment or striving for sobriety— often find yoga to be a healing force. Lola Remy, of yogaHOPE, a Boston and Seattle nonprofit that helps women navigate challenging transitions, attests that yoga makes them feel safe enough in their bodies to process difficult emotions. “The goal isn’t to make stressors go away, it’s to learn resilience,” Remy explains. “Irreparable harm isn’t necessarily the only result of experiencing stress. Even if I’m in a challenging position—like wobbling in the tree pose—I can see that I’m still okay.” The object
is to teach women that their bodies are strong and capable, giving them more confidence in their ability to weather obstacles off the mat.
Supporting Science
Research suggests that yoga can also be an effective therapy for people affected by some forms of severe traumatic stress. A study in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences that scanned the brains of trauma survivors after a reminder of the traumatic event revealed decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain that helps make sense of raw emotions and bodily experiences. While shutting down the connection between body and mind can help in coping with dangerous experiences, it also makes recovery difficult. “You need to have a high-functioning prefrontal cortex to organize the thoughts that come up and know that you’re safe in the present moment,” advises David Emerson, director of yoga services at the Trauma Center, in Brookline, Massachusetts. “Otherwise, you’re assaulted by memory sensory information.” Yoga appears to rewire the brains of trauma survivors to stop reliving past distress. “You can’t talk your prefrontal cortex into functioning well again,” Em-
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erson observes. “But you may be able to do it with your body.” The study found that eight female patients that participated in traumasensitive yoga saw significant decreases in the frequency and severity of their post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. In a study at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense, military veterans enrolled in a 10-week yoga course also showed improvement in PTSD symptoms. A paper presented at a recent International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies conference studied 64 people that had experienced childhood abuse and neglect; those that participated in a trauma-sensitive
yoga course had a 33 percent reduction in PTSD symptoms. Two months later, more than 50 percent in the yoga group experienced greater freedom and were no longer diagnosed as suffering from PTSD, compared to the control group’s 21 percent. Yoga can also transform traumatized lives in other ways. “For many traumatized people, being touched intimately can be a trigger,” Emerson remarks. “Yoga may let them feel ready for physical intimacy again. Others have mentioned victories such as being able to go to the grocery store and knowing exactly what foods their bodies crave.” Emerson notes that such programs emphasize choice and individual empowerment. “The beauty of yoga is that
Yoga
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Modules begin January 2014 For more information: info@CascadeYogaStudio.com 616.464.1610 www.CascadeYogaStudio.com
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you reclaim your body as your own.”
Spreading the Word
Once largely concentrated on the East Coast, trauma-sensitive yoga programs are spreading. Jennifer Johnston, a research clinician and yoga instructor at Boston’s Mind Body Institute, sees programs like these enriching our culture’s understanding of the physical and mental health connection. “In a country where drugs and surgery are often the first go-to,” she says, “it’s important to remember that things like yoga can change our chemistry, too.” Sarah Todd is an East Coast-based writer and editor. Connect at SarahToddInk.com.
Specific Flowers for Specific Emotions by Bessheen Baker, ND Several years ago, I was reading about a natural remedy for stress made from the blossoms of a beautiful tree. This remedy described a type of stress manifesting in a person by causing them to be overly critical, intolerant, judgmental, and a complainer over little things. Huh, I wondered what’s that remedy called? Well, it comes from the Beech tree, so it’s lovingly called the “Beech” remedy, if you get my meaning! What a delight: flowers from nature to remedy negative emotions in humans, pets, and husbands. Not necessarily in that order. So, here’s how it works. Flowering plants, trees, and bushes create these amazing blossoms that are the positive representation of human emotions. Therefore, when you are suffering a negative emotion it can be countered and brought back into balance using its natural counterpart. Imagine that nature has a remedy for attitude and no side effects. This amazing discovery is credited to Dr. Edward Bach of England. He was a physician in the late 1800’s who felt the proper way to handle a health concern was to treat the person and not their condition. In doing so, Dr. Bach would assess the person’s emotional state and give them flower remedies that matched their fears, worries, and concerns. He found that when these concerns were supported using the essences of flowers that the body, now being in balance, could heal itself. One of my favorite examples of Dr. Bach’s work is when he helped a forty year old woman who was suffering from the after effects of sleepy sickness for many months and had been given up as incurable after much treatment. She was dragging herself about her home, tripping and falling down frequently, trying to do a little house work and cooking. She had to sit and rest for long periods, always falling asleep. She had lost interest in everything, her eyes were half closed, her muscles weak and wasted, and she had no appetite. Her condition indicated one of Dr. Bach’s remedies called clematis, made from the clematis flower. Within a fortnight of taking the remedy, her walking was steadier, she felt less desire for sleep, and was able to raise her eyelids and keep her eyes open for much longer periods. But the most striking change was in herself. She was happy and hopeful, she laughed and smiled and began to make plans as to what she would do when she was quite well, and was so grateful for her increased activity and strength. There are numerous stories where Dr. Bach helped people with simple cases like this and others that were far more complicated. He always used the flower remedies, which are simply made by setting the flower blossoms in a bowl of water, letting them sit in the sun, and then, later preserving that “flower water.” Dr. Bach was amazing in how he tuned into all the God given remedies available to address emotional and physical
needs. His remedies are very affordable, averaging $10 or less per month and are used throughout the world. Now, many countries have students and professionals continuing Dr. Bach’s work, discovering the flowers of their regions and how they can help to balance emotions. Here are a few of my favorites • Beech - for the overly critical and intolerant personality. • Mustard - for depression that comes and goes like a dark cloud. • Oak - for the workaholic who continually takes on too much. • Apsen - for anxiety and vague and unknown fears. • Larch - for one who doubts their own abilities and needs confidence. • Honeysuckle - for the person stuck in the past. • Elm - for anyone who feels temporarily overwhelmed. • Cerato - for the person who seeks others; advice and cannot make decisions on their own. • Centaury - for the obligated person who has a very hard time saying no. • Willow - great for feelings of resentment and disappointment. • White Chestnut - for a mind that is racing repeatedly over the same thoughts. • Vervain - for the overly intense personality, hyperactive. • Star of Bethlehem - for recovering from shock or trauma. • Pretty Face - for people who are critical of their own appearance. These are just a few of my favorites; Dr. Bach made 38 discoveries, and since then, a few hundred more have been found. They are very easy to take: simply put 4 drops in your water or other drinks 4 times per day. Some folks like to put them directly under the tongue or even in their bath water. One delightful client from Gaylord put some remedies in her husband’s coffee every morning. She picked remedies for “getting off the couch,” and being less critical of others. She giggled as she mentioned he’s been far more attentive, helping out with household chores and even more romantic! Others have reported great results for children, pets and elderly parents. That’s not to say a husband wouldn’t do well to pick out a few for his wife; let’s say, some Beech, Larch, and Pretty Face - it’s a two way street when it comes to making breakfast tea and coffee. So, enjoy the flower remedies for balancing your emotional world and remember a bouquet in a bottle might have a more lasting effect. Bessheen Baker, ND, is the Founder and Director of Education at Naturopathic Institute of Therapies & Education (NITE), located at 503 East Broadway, Mt. Pleasant, MI. 48858. Visit www.NaturopathicInstitute.info/Herbs-etc/ or call 989-7731714. See ad page 2 & 47. natural awakenings
September 2013
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wisewords
The Allure of Confidence Supermodel Sarah DeAnna’s Universal Beauty Secrets by April Thompson
L
ongtime supermodel Sarah DeAnna believes in our ability to shape both our life—and our looks. Raised by a single mom in the small farm town of Jefferson, Oregon, DeAnna made her way to Los Angeles after putting herself through college, earning a degree in international business marketing from Oregon State University, in Corvallis. While she planned to pursue a graduate degree in business at the University of California, a chance meeting with a photographer at a Hollywood café instead launched her career as an international fashion model, realizing a childhood dream. This natural health trendsetter has since appeared in Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire, and walked the runway for such internationally renowned designers as Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and Stella McCartney. DeAnna credits her success to her commitment to modeling a healthy, balanced lifestyle. In her new book, Supermodel You, she debunks myths about modeling, fitness and beauty, explaining how beauty emanates from the inside out.
How does self-awareness bring out one’s natural beauty? Self-awareness starts with being aware of your actions and their effects. For example, if you’re not paying attention to what you eat and how you feel afterward, you won’t realize that your body may be sending you signals about the quality of what you’re eating. How you walk also affects your body in more ways than you realize. 20
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Being alert to little things that may be throwing you off balance—like carrying more weight on one foot or turning a foot out when you walk—are small steps to developing self-awareness. When a Harvard University study informed a group of hotel housekeepers that didn’t consider themselves physically active that they were actually exercising all day long, they all lost weight. The only difference was their awareness of their work as exercise.
Why do you believe that models that follow less severe diets and workout regimens are better off? Restrictive extremes put enormous stress on your body, which is a leading cause of unhealthy weight gain. When I first started out, I didn’t know that I was eating too little and working out too much and too hard. Then my agent told me to ease my exercise and start eating some healthy fats again, which the body needs. When I stopped overdoing it, I both felt better and achieved my target weight. There isn’t any one kind of diet or exercise practice that’s right for everyone; it’s all about having a positive relationship with food and your body.
What are some of your favorite tips for getting a good night’s sleep? I make sleep a priority, even if it means missing out on late night fun. Tune in to what is keeping you awake, whether it’s what you are reading, watching or
eating before bedtime, and change it. Creating a sleep ritual is helpful; I light candles and lower music in the house to wind down long before when I want to be asleep.
How do models manage to look like a million bucks on a modest income while they await their big break? Confidence is the most beautiful thing. Good posture makes you look thinner and better-looking. It’s not the number of pounds that matter; you know before you step on the scale if you are happy with the way you look and feel. As for fashion, it’s not just what you wear, but how you wear it. How clothes fit is important. We all have different shapes, and even models will have “muffin tops” if the pants aren’t hitting their hips in the right place. Rather than focus on the size, focus on how a garment looks on you.
You’ve been told that you aren’t “commercially beautiful”. How can each of us reframe the way we think about our own appeal? I’m sometimes told I’m too edgylooking or too strong-featured. But as my agent says, if everyone liked me, I would just be ordinary. You need to love whatever is different about you. Cindy Crawford has a noticeable mole; Tyra Banks has a large forehead. These models turned such “flaws” into personal trademarks that set them apart.
The industry can be unkind to older models. What lessons have you learned from watching your predecessors? The modeling business is finally realizing that society wants to see more natural-looking women, so they are bringing back the older supermodels, and they look amazing. We are even seeing models in their 80s now as an awesome positive representation of older women. It’s all about having a positive outlook and embracing who and what you are. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com. natural awakenings
September 2013
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Light Rays Community Spotlight by Kim Racette
I
t was during her mother’s final months that Holistic Healer and owner of Light Rays, Jamie VanDam realized how the power of Reiki could help manage pain and suffering. “When she was diagnosed with Cancer I went for training because I wanted to help. It was amazing how it maintained her quality of life during the chemotherapy and radiation,” she said. “It also helped her heal emotionally so she could accept the end eight months later when she passed.” Now a Reiki III Master Practitioner and a CranioSacral Therapist, VanDam provides treatment in Grand Rapids, Rockford and the Lakeview area. Her background in the medical field, management and training in the holistic arts has given her a unique perspective. “From working in Home IV Therapy for 13 years to managing a family restaurant to working for a local company that practiced a holistic care approach, each one led to the next and to this place,” she said with a smile. “My greatest sense of fulfillment comes from helping people to be better in mind, body or spirit in some significant way.” VanDam began her training in Reiki with a friend at Grand Rapids Community College and found it fascinating. “Working in the medical field I met people who needed help and I just knew there had to be something else, a better way,” she explained. “I learned about the energy field we have in our bodies and how changing the energy level could cure illnesses and restore people to health.” Reiki (from the Japanese word meaning universal life force energy) is a gentle hands-on treatment that assists in balancing one’s major energy center (chakras). When these are in harmony the body can heal itself and the mind becomes calm. “During treatment this healing energy flows from God through the Reiki touch and this is the energy that runs and fuels the body,” she explained. “When the energy is restricted or blocked illness sets in, keeping these channels open is crucial to good health.” A couple of years later VanDam was introduced to CranioSacral Therapy (CST), and saw an important connection between it and Reiki that appealed to her as a therapist. CranioSacral refers to the soft tissues and fluid that protect the brain and spinal cord of the central nervous system. When this system is compromised, it can affect the performance of nearly every other system in the body. Therapy involves finding any restrictions and releasing them, allowing the body to relax and self-correct. “CranioSacral Therapy is tangible and medically well known, so there is more acceptance of this treatment, but it is all part of the mind body spirit connection,” said VanDam. “Many practitioners just do one or the other, but I do a mix of both. People need to be able to utilize 100% of their energy to get done what they need to do each day.” Reiki and CST use similar methods to treat different areas of the body, and both treat a full spectrum of pain, illness, and dysfunction. “Migraines, chronic neck and back pain,
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Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue; there are many reasons people come to me,” said VanDam. “Many have sought medical treatment for years, but still are suffering.” Both sessions generally last up to an hour, while the person receiving the treatment is fully clothed in a private setting. “In addition to symptoms I also look at the emotions attached to the pain,” explained VanDam. “Even though people may have long forgotten a trauma that has affected them for years the body has memories that need to be released before it can move on.” Even though these therapies are an alternative to traditional medicine, VanDam has seen support for their results by the medical community. “Two sisters I worked with were in a terrible car accident and one was hurt more seriously than the other,” she said. “She was having seizures and didn’t want to go on prescription drugs, so she began treatment with me. Over the next year her symptoms gradually lessoned as her body healed itself.” Even though her different specialists didn’t understand the therapy and why it was making a difference in her recovery they encouraged her to stay with whatever she was doing because it was working. “The headaches diminished, her sensitivity to light decreased and the seizures were gone,” she said with satisfaction. “She was able to stay in college and is now leading a normal life.” Everything in nature has a vibration and an energy level, so in her tranquil healing room VanDam has a collection of crystals and essential oils that complement the treatments. “Being grounded to the earth and being close to nature helps to release negative energy, because everything from this earth has a vibration,” she said with a smile. “Just learning release techniques can benefit everyone.” For those who are struggling with health issues or need to increase their energy level VanDam suggests starting with a series of three sessions. “Some people find the treatments rejuvenating and others deeply relaxing. After the three sessions is a good time to reassess your status,” she said. Married with three kids, VanDam is also a Cosmetologist, works in hospice care and loves to garden and create floral arrangements. Most of all, she likes to be outside. “In the mountains, at the beach, being anywhere in nature is so amazing,” she said. “It’s the same feeling I get when I’m able to help better someone’s life in some way. It makes everything worthwhile.” For more information about Light Rays contact Jamie VanDam at 616-365-9113 or j-dam@sbcglobal.net. Visit her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lightraysjamie or www.lightraysllc.com. See ad page 44. Grand Rapids native Kim Racette writes for a variety of publications and websites in the area, including DressMeDaddy.com.
healthykids
What Peace Means to Children The World We All Need
Sunday Worship: 10:30am Wednesday Discussion & Meditation: 6:30pm
by Kids for Peace
Peace is‌ a wish that grows around the world everyone feeling music in their hearts everyone having someone to love everyone knowing they are in a safe place everyone knowing they are beautiful inside and out singing together making art and sharing it with others growing a garden, planting a tree protecting animals getting Dorothy back home everyone playing sports instead of going to war happiness for all, peace on Earth and pizza for all people being kissed goodnight every child having a family every child having a ball to play with at least one hug a day a warm bed to dream in the angel in my heart using your voice for good treating others as you wish to be treated sending all soldiers home to their families people shaking hands
An Inner-Faith Worship and Spiritual Enrichment Center
keeping our world safe knowing anything is possible
Pastor Sherry Petro-Surdel 3493 Blue Star Highway Saugatuck, MI. 49453 269-455-5329 www.Spirit-Space.org
having fun and being kind helping people in need everyone having an education everyone having good food
Tip Of The Month
goodness laughter love meditating nature the beauty that surrounds the world
Kids for Peace Pledge I pledge to use my words to speak in a kind way. I pledge to help others as I go throughout my day. I pledge to care for our Earth with my healing heart and hands. I pledge to respect people in each and every land. I pledge to join together as we unite the big and small. I pledge to do my part to create peace for one and all.
Buy re-usable lunch bags for snacks and sandwiches to eliminate plastic zip locks. Save money and the earth.
be confident...be sexy...be strong
Contributions are by children ages 5 to 11. For more information, visit KidsForPeaceGlobal.org.
Special Rate of $20 for an Introductory Class - Call Today Amy Oostveen
616.723.7350 ~ Amy@FlirtFitnessGR.com
Honoring the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, September 21
5366 Plainfield Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI. 49525 www.FlirtFitnessGR.com
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WHOLE-BEING
WORKOUTS Moving the Body Opens the Door to Spirit by Lisa Marshall
I
t’s the Sabbath, a day of “Exercise can “the flail.” As the World Beat playlist picks up the prayer, and millions of be a powerful pace, Pierrat leads the people across America through a funky, raveare quietly sitting or kneelgateway to group like series of dance moves ing, humbly communing the spiritual.” aimed at “opening up” the with a power greater than hips and chest and somethemselves. ~ Chantal Pierrat thing less tangible deep But inside the Alchemy inside. By song five, the of Movement studio in Boulsweat is flowing and some are dancing der, Colorado, the Soul Sweat faithful unabashedly, eyes closed, lost in the are connecting with their higher power music. Others are smiling broadly, makin a different fashion. In bare feet, and ing eye contact in the mirror. wearing yoga pants and tank tops, they The sense of joy and interconnectfind a place before a wall-to-wall miredness in the room is palpable. “Exerror while a slow, Afro-Brazilian rhythm cise can be a powerful gateway to the vibrates the wooden floor. spiritual,” observes Pierrat, the founder At the urging of instructor Chantal of Soul Sweat, a highly choreographed, Pierrat, they let their arms and necks spiritually charged dance workout. go limp, shaking off the week’s stresses Twenty years after the yoga craze via a sensual, full-body writhe she calls
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introduced Westerners to the possibility that the two seemingly incongruous goals could be intertwined, the spirituality-fitness link has spread well beyond the yoga mat. It has spawned fusions ranging from Body Gospel, a Christian workout tape, and Jewish Yoga classes to triathlon programs rooted in Native American teachings and Buddhismbased running meditation workshops. In addition, creative instructors have been fusing body/mind/spirit classics like yoga and Pilates with hardcore cardio disciplines like spinning and boxing. Half of all U.S. fitness clubs now offer mind/body programming, according to the IDEA Health & Fitness Association, and the portion of classes dedicated to “mind/spirit” versus just “body” is on the rise. “The newer programming is balanced 50-50, rather than the 80-20 body-mind split of the past,” estimates Sandy Todd Webster, editor in chief of IDEA’s publications. At a time when, according to the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, the number of people that identify with “no organized religion” continues to grow (topping one-fifth of Americans and one-third of U.S. adults under 30), more people than ever are exploring exercise as a path to both flatter abs and deeper self-discovery. “We have spent so long focusing on the mind and the brain… but that is not the whole story,” says Pierrat. “The somatic, or physical, expression of spirituality is the future.”
In the Zone
The notion that intense dancing or a long run could spark what feels like a spiritual awakening makes sense to Philadelphia-based research neuroscientist and physician Andrew Newberg, author of How God Changes Your Brain. A pioneer in the field of integrative “neurotheology”, he has for years used brain imaging technologies to study the impact religious or spiritual practices like deep meditation, intense prayer and speaking in tongues have on the brain. Exercise, he says, provides many of the same effects. In addition to prompting a surge of feel-good endorphins, a highly strenuous workout is one of the few activities that can lead to simultaneous activa-
“God has created us with a body. Why aren’t we praying with our body?” ~ Marcus Freed tion of both sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (calming) nervous system reactions. “Normally, when one of these is active, the other one shuts down, but when people drive one or the other to a very heightened level of activity, there is some evidence that the other turns on too,” explains Newberg. That intense dual firing can paradoxically lead to an interruption in sensory information traveling to areas of the brain that control our sense of ourselves at any moment. “Not only do you have this great feeling of energy and calmness, but you tend to lose your sense of space and time,” he notes. Newberg’s own research also suggests that when people “surrender” themselves in a spiritual practice, the frontal lobe (the practical part of the brain that keeps our thoughts in check) quiets. He speculates that something similar may happen in the midst of, say, a marathon or intense dance, enabling out of the ordinary thoughts and feelings to surface. “It can allow for creativity—a blending of different, more intuitive ideas in ways you don’t normally mix things,” comments Newberg. So, is exercise able to only make us feel like we’re having a mystical experience, or is it somehow actually opening a channel to the divine? Newberg declines to go there, commenting that a brain scan tells what’s going on in the brain, not in the soul. Yet he has no doubt the two are inextricably linked. He says, “There are many well-known examples of intense experiences, like Sufi dancing, generating spiritual experiences for people.”
Whole-Being Workouts
Marcus Freed is one of those people. He grew up in a traditional Jewish family in London, England, and attended a rabbinical seminary in Israel. Still, he felt that something was missing in his spiritual life. “I thought, ‘God has created us with a body. Why aren’t we praying with our body?’” Freed says that Biblical text often references the body: King David, in the Book of Psalms, says, “Let all my bones praise the creator.” The Jewish Talmud refers to a rabbi that “stretched his spine with a prayer of gratitude.” Yet, Freed observes, the physical elements of daily spiritual practice have been largely forgotten over the centuries. When he discovered yoga, it filled a gap for him. “I found a way to draw upon this incredible spiritual literature but ground it in the body, so that experience is not just in the head, but also in the heart.” Thus, Freed founded Bibliyoga, which launches each class with a Hebrew or Kabbalistic teaching, followed by poses that incorporate its themes, as reflected in his book, The Kosher Sutras: The Jewish Way in Yoga and Meditation. The practice, now taught in cities around the United States and Europe, has prompted the birth of similarly religion-infused classes, including Christ Yoga, and the Jewish Yoga Network. “A lot of people separate things, saying they’ll get their spirituality from one place and their exercise from somewhere else,” says Freed. “I think they are missing out.”
Mindful Sports
The spirituality-exercise link likewise resonates through other traditionally solo pursuits such as triathlon activities and running, in which many athletes say a more mindful approach to training has infused their sport with more meaning, and in some cases, improved their performances. Ironman Marty Kibiloski, formerly a competitive marathoner and road racer, led what he terms a “high achievement, low contentment” life for years, measuring his self-worth by timed results that never quite satisfied him. In 2006, he attended a Running with the Mind of Meditation three-day workshop, based on Rinpoche Sakyong Mipham’s book of the same name. The retreat combined with his newfound interest in Buddhism, completely redefined running for him. Kibiloski prefers to steer clear of the word “spiritual” (which he sees as somewhat ambiguous) when describing what he now experiences when running. Instead, he frames it as a vehicle for self-discovery, a mobile meditation that provides the intense focus and freedom from distraction that enables him to “awaken to how things really are.” He now leads the retreat that proved pivotal for him, drawing more than 100 runners each Labor Day weekend to the Shambhala Mountain Center, in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado. Participants learn to focus on the cadence of their footfalls, their breathing and their surroundings to, as he puts it,
Yoga for EVERYONE!
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“move meditation beyond the cushion.” He remarks, “It trains you to have your mind be still when your body is active, which is how you are in everyday life.” Triathlete Mark Allen credits his work with Brant Secunda, a shaman and teacher in the Huichol Indian tradition of Mexico, for enabling him to overcome negative self-talk and physical stresses and go on to win the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, six times in the late 1980s and early 90s. He notes, “In every one of my physical workouts, I also focused on training the spiritual aspect, so that when I got that chatter in my head, saying, ‘This is too hard’ or ‘I want to quit,’ I could go to a quiet place, rather than a negative one.” Based on their book, Fit Soul, Fit Body: Nine Keys to a Healthier, Happier You, the pair conduct workshops around the country on how to strengthen both soul and body by intertwining both. “Some people think you are only spiritual when you are praying, but when you are moving your body, that is an intensely spiritual experience, too,” says Allen. “It’s my way of saying, ‘Thank you for letting me be alive.’” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer near Boulder, CO. Connect at Lisa@LisaAnnMarshall.com.
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FUSION WORKOUTS Pump Body, Charge Spirit
Drawing newcomers eager to break a sweat while staying true to their mind/body and spiritual roots is the aim of yoga, Pilates and tribal dance instructors that are busy introducing innovations. Here’s a quick look at just some of them. Aero boga: This approach to yoga-dance fusion is designed for older adults that follow the bhakti yoga philosophy. Buti: Teachers of this 90-minute, high-intensity workout that fuses yoga, tribal dance and plyometrics aim to unlock the shakti spiral and release the hips to help energy flow freely in the first and second chakras. Piloxing: Created by Swedish dancer and celebrity trainer Viveca Jensen, Piloxing blends Pilates
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and boxing with powerful principles of femininity. Soul Sweat: Highly choreographed, yet accessible to beginners, dance movements are set to World Beat, African, Latin, hip-hop and rave music to enhance coordination, tone muscles, enhance energy flow and awaken creativity. Vinyasa on the bike: Conscious pedaling on a stationary bike integrates yoga principles of breathing, flowing and paying attention to what is happening in the body. YoBata: Fast-paced classes intersperse Vinyasa (or flow) yoga with tabata brief sets of high-intensity, fat-burning bodyweight or cardio exercises).
UNIVERSAL FITNESS TIPS
Mindful Practices Enhance Any Routine by Casey McAnn When it comes to attaining fitness, several well-regarded recommendations increase the likelihood of success. Natural Awakenings canvassed online fitness sources for tips and techniques intended to keep workouts safe, fun and satisfying. Our favorites follow. Always stretch – Light stretching before and after workouts loosens muscles and increases circulation for quicker repair and healing. It can also help prevent injuries. It’s ideal to hold stretches for at least 30 seconds, breathing “into” the muscles that are being stretched and inviting a gentle release of tension on the exhalation. If any pain surfaces while stretching a certain area, stop. Start slowly – Begin and build workout routines slowly in order to avoid straining muscles and ligaments. Exercise at least twice a week, the bare minimum for staying physically fit. Be well rounded – Add leg and back exercises to crunches and bicep curls, and vary cardio routines to stay enthusiastic about workouts. Experiment with all the equipment available at a studio or gym, asking a trainer for guidance. Drink plenty of water – Drinking water helps to decrease appetite and eliminate cravings, while nourishing and hydrating the body. The goal is to drink half of one’s body weight number in ounces each day. Keep it regular – Making exercise a regularly scheduled part of the week eliminates excuses. Keep it on the calendar and show up as dutifully as for any other important appointment. Make up any days missed. Increase intensity – More intense workouts mean less time spent doing them while achieving the same level of benefits. It’s also important to keep endurance exercises in any routine, however, because they are vital for cardiovascular benefits and building stamina. Use weights – Adding muscle to the body increases strength, life expec-
tancy and fat burning. To tone muscles, use a weight that works for eight to 12 lifts. For bulk, use a weight suited to four to six lifts. Practice a weight training routine two to three times a week, keeping sessions under 45 minutes. Add interval training – Sprinting for about 50 yards boosts metabolism and heart health. Return to the starting point by taking a slow walk. Repeat as many times as possible, making sure to warm up before the interval training and cool down afterwards. Dress up – Energize a workout session and boost confidence by wearing something snazzy. Donning an exercise “uniform” gets us in the mood, and a new piece of clothing or footwear can make us excited to get moving again. Be a safe runner – Every six weeks, cut running mileage and frequency in half for a week. This allows the body to recover from workouts and helps to prevent injury. Make it meaningful – While walking or running, recite prayers or a gratitude list, or listen to inspirational podcasts and downloads. Volunteer for fitness – Many volunteer tasks involve some form of physical movement. It feels good to burn calories while helping others. Bring workout buddies – Friends and pets need exercise, too, and they provide restorative companionship. Working out with a pal adds support and motivation, which are keys to success. Seek out a human buddy with similar fitness goals. Go green – Research from the University of Essex, in England, shows that exercising in nature produces additional physical and mental benefits. The researchers found that “green exercise” improves mood, self-esteem, enjoyment and motivation. Casey McAnn is a freelance writer in Boston, MA.
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consciouseating
Ounce of Prevention, a Lifetime of Health. “If there is more glucose than you need, the remainder is stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen, and then converted to fat.”
Killing Effect
SUGAR MONSTER How Sweet It Isn’t by Kathleen Barnes
I
“Am I a sugar addict?” There’s an easy way to tell.
“
f you have to ask yourself, you are,” advises Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, a renowned integrative physician in Kona, Hawaii, and author of Beat Sugar Addiction Now! The dangers of excessive sugar consumption, especially of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), are well known. Yet such cheap, corn-based sweeteners account for nearly 56 percent of all sweeteners, especially in beverages. The average American annually consumes 152 pounds of sugar, compared to 109 pounds in 1950, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A large portion is ingested as sugary liquids, including juices and an average of 46 gallons of soft drinks a year—compared to 11 gallons 50 years ago.
Puts on Pounds
Certainly, high-calorie sugars trigger weight gain, but it may be news that calories from sugar act differently in the body than those from other foods. “Fat doesn’t make you fat. Sugar makes you fat,” states Dr. John Salerno, director of The Salerno Center for Complementary Medicine, in New York, Tokyo and Sao Paolo, Brazil. “Eating carbohydrates quickly raises blood sugar (glucose), prompting the release of insulin to transport the glucose not immediately needed for energy, to the cells,” Salerno explains in his new book, The Salerno Solution: An 28
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While the negative effects of excess sugar consumption have been documented for decades, “Evidence is mounting that sugar is the primary cause of obesity, plus many chronic and lethal diseases,” says Osteopathic Physician Joseph Mercola, of Hoffman Estates, Illinois, who runs the highly popular natural health website, Mercola.com, and has authored books that include The No-Grain Diet and Sweet Deception. “Excessive fructose consumption leads to insulin resistance that appears to be the root of many, if not most, chronic diseases,” says Mercola. Beyond the obvious association with obesity, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, liver and heart disease and Alzheimer’s have all been linked to sugar, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information at the National Institutes of Health. “Sugar, in excess, is a toxin, unrelated to its calories,” says Dr. Robert Lustig, an endocrinologist and professor of clinical pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco. “The dose determines the poison. Like alcohol, a little sugar is fine, but a lot is not. And the food industry has put us way over our limit.” Sugar can be addictive, continues Lustig. “It has clear potential for abuse. Like tobacco and alcohol, sugar acts on the brain to encourage subsequent intake.”
Healthy Sweeteners
n Stevia, a powdered extract of a South American plant, is the most popular natural sweetener, delivering no calories or blood sugar swings; 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar, a little goes a long way. Look for a product with no additives. n Sucanat—minimally processed, dehydrated cane sugar juice—is a reasonably healthy alternative, especially to substitute measure for measure in baking. Because it metabolizes like sugar, it too will cause blood sugar swings; also note that both agave and “raw” sugar, which is merely
Everyday Sugar Addicts by Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum A solution to sugar addiction is simply to stop eating sugars, especially any form of corn syrup. Drink more water and take a high-quality multivitamin, plus other supplements as necessary. Here are the four characteristics of people that tend to obsessively seek sugar. 4 Chronically exhausted and looking for an energy boost 4 Stressed out and suffering from adrenal exhaustion 4 Cravings caused by excessive presence of yeast/candida 4 Hormonally related cravings
synthesized as a vegetable product like corn syrup. Fruit also comes loaded with health benefits, so eating it in moderation works, especially fruits and berries that are low on the glycemic index, a measure of carbohydrate effects on blood sugar levels.
less refined table sugar, have similar effects. n Honey, while not caloriefree, is high in heart-healthy flavonoids and anti-allergens, and may even help lower cholesterol, according to a study from University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, in Germany.
Kathleen Barnes has authored many natural health books. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com.
n Maple syrup carries calories, but is also a rich source of polyphenol anti-inflammatory antioxidants. A University of Rhode Island, Kingston, study suggests that maple syrup may help manage Type 2 diabetes. n Molasses, while not calorie-free, is a worthy alternative if weight isn’t an issue, since it’s a good source of minerals, especially iron. n Raw monk fruit (avoid processed Nectresse), a small, sweet melon native to China and Southeast Asia known as luo han guo, has traditionally been used in herbal medicine. It is touted as being low in carbs and is 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar. n Coconut sugar is generating excitement largely because of its low glycemic index (35) and low carbohydrate qualities. This optimum option is a good source of potassium, magnesium, iron, boron, zinc, sulfur and copper. n All fruit contains fructose, but in a natural state—not
Corn Syrup Hides in Processed Foods Most of us might suspect that high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) lurks in soft drinks, baked goods, candy and other sweets, but substantial amounts permeate many processed foods. Key culprits include: 4 Applesauce 4 Bottled steak and barbecue sauces 4 Breads 4 Breakfast cereals (including low-calorie ones) 4 Canned soups
4 Catsup 4 Canned vegetables 4 Cottage cheese 4 Flavored yogurt 4 Juice drinks 4 Salad dressings 4 Spaghetti sauce
Notes: HFCS sometimes hides on labels as inulin, glucosefructose syrup, isoglucose and fruit fructose, among others. Sources include several online publications and food product labels.
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Edible Hormones Health Support for Women by Sayer Ji and Tania Melkonian
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n addition to relieving symptoms of menopause and andropause and helping maintain a normal, balanced hormone system, healthy eating can yield many other benefits. According to U.S. National Library of Medicine research reports, these include weight management, bone health and fertility and natural defenses against breast and prostate cancers and osteoarthritis symptoms. Despite drug-free approaches to hormone health that predate synthesized 20th-century hormone replacement therapy, the pharmaceutical industry has all but vanquished eating appropriately nutritious foods as a means to balancing hormones. Why do people embrace external sourcing when natural internal functioning is the better, less costly and more permanent solution? Even the current bio-identical upgrade of hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may lead to some biological dependency on these substances. Appropriate BHRT should include an analysis of how the individual uniquely metabolizes hormones and functional foods that can help. An edible approach to hormone health provides deep nourishment for glands, enabling increased production of what they lack due to changes associated with age or illness. Healthy eating likewise reduces the activity of excess hormones already in the body, beneficially mimicking their previous function without the unwanted
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side effects. Here are some leading food aids to get us there.
Pomegranate
The resemblance of the inner topography of a pomegranate to an ovary is more than poetic homage. Pre-Renaissance Western herbalists commonly held that a plant food’s visual similarity to a human organ indicated a positive health correlation. Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology on pomegranates by Japanese scientists revealed that the seeds and fleshy capsules within which they are suspended, called arils, contain estrogens structurally similar to those found in mammals. Preclinical results published in Phytochemistry may explain why extracts of these plant-derived bioidentical hormones mimicking estradiol, estriol and estrone are capable of replacing the function of an ovary. A Japanese study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology reported that female mice whose ovaries had been removed and were later fed pomegranate juice and pomegranate seed extract for two weeks showed reversals in bone loss, uterine weight loss and anxiety.
Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts, collard and mustard greens and the
root vegetables kohlrabi and rutabaga contain glucosinolates, which help protect DNA from damage, according to a study published in Current Science. Also, ever-increasing preclinical and clinical evidence shows that consuming cruciferous vegetables reduces the risk of more than 100 health problems, including a wide range of cancers, like those affecting the bladder and breasts.
Flax
Unwelcome symptoms of perimenopause (which can last years before the completion of menopause) can be offset through daily ingestion of ground flax, which can be added to cereals, salads and other foods. Ground flaxseed mixed with dried berries is particularly palatable. As the ovarian reserve of naturally manufactured hormones exhausts itself and prompts an imbalance, flaxseed is particularly effective in rebalancing levels of desirable estrogen metabolites, such as
breast-friendly 2-hydroxyestrone. It contains a fiber, lignan, that upon digestion produces two important phytoestrogens capable of stimulating the body’s natural estrogen receptors in cases of estrogen deficiency and blocking both synthetic and natural estrogen when there is excess (as with estrogen-dominant conditions from puberty to menopause). These properties have been confirmed in human clinical studies performed at the University of Toronto’s Department of Nutritional Sciences and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Thus, flaxseed may be considered a source of plant “estrogen” capable of prompting regression of estrogen-sensitive cancers, including those of the breast and prostate. Extremely versatile in culinary applications, combining flaxseed with ground cumin provides a medicinally potent homemade seasoning supporting women’s hormonal health.
Cumin
Cumin—actually a fruit disguised as a spice—has tremendous hormone-modu-
lating properties recently confirmed by findings in Experimental Biology and Medicine. Japanese scientists demonstrated that cumin seeds can inhibit loss of bone density and strength as effectively as estrogen in a female rat model of age-associated osteoporosis. They further found that the cumin seeds did not have estrogen’s weight-promoting and possible carcinogenic effects on the uterus. Imagine the potent hormonebalancing properties of a dinner of steamed rutabaga dressed with ground flaxseeds and cumin with a side of mustard greens with olive oil and pomegranate dressing. It beats a serving of Premarin with a serving of unwanted side effects any day. Sayer Ji is the founder of GreenMed Info.com and advisory board member of the National Health Federation. Tania Melkonian is a certified nutritionist and healthy culinary arts educator. Learn more at GreenMedInfo.com.
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fitbody
STAYING POWER A Good Trainer Keeps Us On Track by Debra Melani
Maintaining one’s own fitness program can prove a challenge when the will to work out fizzles. Many people are getting help conquering roadblocks and staying on an effective path of regular exercise through an enduring relationship with a personal trainer.
A
pproximately 6.4 million Americans now engage personal trainers, according to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association, including some in less traditional locations, like community centers and corporate workplaces. When a client sticks with a personal trainer over the long haul, the relationship can evolve beyond a caring coach into a steadfast mentor, producing benefits that transcend basic fitness. “I have individuals I’ve worked with for 10 years, and have come to know them and their bodies and habits well,” says Kristin McGee, a New York City trainer who counts celebrities like Steve Martin and Tina Fey as clients. By understanding all aspects of each of her clients, she says she can better tailor programs to meet their needs.
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When nine-year client Bebe Duke, 58, faced a lengthy rehabilitation after tripping and shattering a shoulder, McGee helped lift her spirits, ease her back into full-body fitness and even slay some psychological dragons. “We worked her lower half; we kept her strong and her moods steady with meditation and yoga,” McGee says. “The physical therapist knew how to work with her shoulder joint, but not with the rest of her body and the rest of her life.” Duke felt, as she puts it, “a significant fear of falling” after the accident. “So we spent an enormous amount of time on balance and making sure I didn’t feel nervous.” McGee was able to help Duke prevent fitness loss, which can happen to anyone that goes four weeks without exercising, reports Medicine &
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Science in Sports & Exercise journal. Maintaining regular exercise can also deter depression, confirmed by a study in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine. Three years after the injury, Duke can now hold a downward dog yoga pose and do a headstand. “I’m also running again,” Duke adds. “I’m signed up for a half marathon.” Richard Cotton, a personal trainer in Indianapolis, Indiana, and the American College of Sports Medicine’s national director of certification, agrees that a good long-term trainer often serves as a fitness, nutrition and even life coach. “You can’t metaphorically cut off people’s heads and only train their bodies. Then you are just a technician,” he observes. Building a true foundation for health requires understanding the importance of each building block, not just working with a trainer for a few sessions and afterwards going blindly through the motions, attests Sandra Blackie, a former professional bodybuilder, certified nutritionist and current personal trainer in San Diego, California. “I want to educate my clients.” During extended periods, good trainers also revise routines at least once every four weeks to prevent adaptation, another problem that can hinder reaching fitness goals. “Without trainers, people often get stuck in a rut and lose motivation,” remarks Blackie, who also adapts exercises according to bodily changes due to aging or other conditions. Long-term relationships also allow trainers to focus on the individual’s bottom-line goals, Cotton notes. For instance, “I want to lose 10 pounds,” might really mean, “I want the energy to play with my kids,” or “I want to feel more alert at work.” “Achievable goals evolve from values,” Cotton explains. “It’s not about getting in super great shape for six months and then stopping. It’s about creating a foundation for life.” Freelance journalist Debra Melani writes about health care and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at Debra Melani.com or DMelani@msn.com.
FAQ
by Heater & Aaron Cobb
B
elow are a couple of the most common questions asked by people who are thinking about beginning an exercise program. I don’t want to bulk up, will lifting weights make me bulk up? Not if that isn’t your goal. Weight training will increase muscle size to meet the demand of the stress being placed on the muscle, however you will not look like a bodybuilder. Muscle burns calories, tones and shapes the body. I only eat 2-3 times a day why can’t I lose weight? You are actually causing the body to hold extra body fat by not eating enough. You must feed the body quality nutrients on a consistent basis everyday to lose body fat, elevate energy and feel better. You should strive for 5-6 meals a day to keep your metabolism operating at a higher rate. How long before I start to get results? You will start to change almost immediately on the inside as your body’s metabolic processes adapt to the changes brought on by exercise. You will feel the changes before you start to notice them on the outside. You can expect to notice subtle changes in about 4 -6 weeks, others will start to notice in 6-8 weeks and dramatic changes will occur in 10-12 weeks. What qualifications should I look for? You should search for Nationally Certified trainers and/or those with a degree in a related field. Heather & Aaron Cobb are Certified Personal Trainers and owners of iTrain Consulting located at 3680 44th Street SE, Suite 160 in Kentwood. www. iTrain4it.com or 616-541-5438. See ads pages 35 & 46.
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greenliving
A Green Night’s Sleep for Travelers Pioneers Show the Way to Eco-Friendly Stays by Avery Mack
W
“
hen your company motto is ‘true to nature’, you have to follow through,” says Tom Tabler, director of sales and marketing for the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. “We look at everything, from the biodegradable ink pens in the guest rooms to the staff’s summer uniform.” Managers’ sport coats consist of lightweight plastic fibers and rubber from recycled materials. “They breathe fine, are comfortable and look great,” Tabler remarks. Hotel construction adhered to eco-friendly practices. A 100-acre bird sanctuary followed the onsite discovery of endangered golden-cheeked warblers. The 36-hole golf course is certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program and deemed the most eco-friendly in the United States by the PGA Tour. The hotel’s four pools and a lazy river for tubing honor the region’s dry climate; water reclamation via closed loop natural catchments and 36
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rain retention ponds keep guests afloat and the golf course green. Also in Texas, the Four Seasons Hotel Austin has a “zero waste” goal, requiring the recycling of 90 percent of all onsite waste. Shadowboxes above trash cans show guests examples of what is and isn’t recyclable, while unused soap and other toiletries are donated to local women’s shelters. “We have placed sufficient containers, so there’s no excuse not to recycle,”
photo courtesy of JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
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says Kerri Holden, senior director of public relations. “In April, we were at the 70 percent compliance mark. We hope to reach our 90 percent goal by year’s end.” She notes that after management cancelled weekly dumpster service, only one six-by-six-foot trash container remains. Even worn linens become cleaning rags. The saltwater swimming pool uses soda ash, rather than harsher chlorine chemical treatments. Kitchen scraps are composted and become fertilizer for the hotel’s herb and vegetable garden and flowerbeds. Natural compost bags in guest rooms collect banana peels, apple cores and other organic food waste. At the end of the year, guests that composted during their visit receive a thankyou letter and The Nature Conservancy plants a tree in their name in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, one of the world’s most endangered tropical forests (PlantABillion.org). California’s Cavallo Point Lodge, near San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, opened in Sausalito in 2008 as the newest national park lodge and the only one with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. It was built in the early 1900s to house Fort Baker’s military families. While renovations have enlarged the rooms, wood door framing maintains the rustic appearance and the wood floors are either original or made from repurposed wood. “We learned a lot while updating the lodge,” says General Manager Euan Taylor. “We discovered that the tin ceiling tiles were painted with lead-based paint. Instead of using harsh chemicals, we froze each tile, gave it a slight twist and the paint fell off.” Unsurprisingly, food for the lodge restaurant and onsite cooking school is purchased from local farmers. In Big Sur, California, the award-winning Post Ranch Inn specializes in repurposing materials. Wood from old growth redwood wine casks accent walls in guest rooms. Fallen trees become benches dotting walkways. Dinnerware is made from recycled glass and any broken plates are recycled again. The honey used for a special spa facial treatment comes from 18 onsite beehives. Daily updates on energy savings via the Inn’s 208 kW, 990-panel solar power system can be viewed at Tinyurl.com/PostRanchInnMonitor. Connect with freelance writer Avery Mack at AveryMack@mindspring.com.
Sustainable Stays in West Michigan
Peaches Bed & Breakfast
At Peaches Bed & Breakfast in Grand Rapids, Michigan, they are not just caretakers of their historic home, but also of the earth. They take advantage of every possible opportunity to reuse, repurpose, recycle or donate. “We were green when it was just a color,” Jane Lovett, owner of Peaches Bed & Breakfast explains. “Peaches was the first green lodging in Grand Rapids, first in the state and first B&B in the country. It seemed like a perfect fit and we wanted to stay ahead of the curve.” Peaches B&B, a part of the State of Michigan’s Green Lodging Program, has earned an amazing 88 points from the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth’s Green Lodging initiative, scoring higher initially than any other property when they were first certified in 2007. A few of their green initiatives include: • Drying sheets outside. • Recycling everything possible. • Using as few disposable products as possible such as china, cloth napkins, washable rags & glass room amenities. • Using or converting to Energy Star appliances. • Growing a kitchen garden on the roof, for both sustainable food and heat control. • Utilizing rain barrels. • Providing an electric vehicle charging station free to guests. • Buying local. Every effort is made to conserve resources throughout operations. They consistently seek products and services of local origin and that are environmentally neutral. 29 Gay Ave SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-454-8000 www.Peaches-Inn.com HealtH
Fitness
CityFlats Hotel
CityFlats Hotel Holland along with the Grand Rapids location are the only two photo courtesy of CityFlats Hotel LEED Gold Certified hotels in the state of Michigan. Their Holland location was the first hotel in the Midwest to achieve LEED Gold Certification. Each CityFlats Hotel location boasts interior furniture and décor designed and manufactured with local materials and rapidly renewable resources. In fact, the majority of all finished products used were manufactured locally in Holland, Michigan. At CityFlats Hotels you will find they utilize green materials, technologies, and practices to reduce their impact on the environment. Green features at each location can vary, however they may include cork flooring, low-VOC adhesives & paint, naturally hypo-allergenic bamboo linens, CityDrēm Mattresses, natural lighting, high-efficiency heating and cooling units, low-flow faucets and toilets, fluorescent lighting and Cradle-to-Cradle Certified recycled materials. CityFlats Hotel believes the conservation and protection of the environment will ensure the planet’s longevity and improve quality of life for all people. Reducing waste sent to landfills, conserving energy and water, reducing harmful greenhouse emissions and ultimately creating a healthy and safe environment for guests and employees. At CityFlats Hotel, guests can satisfy their eco-conscience without sacrificing style. CityFlats Hotel-Holland 61 East 7th Street Holland, MI 49423
nutrition
Wellness
CityFlats Hotel-Grand Rapids 83 Monroe Center St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 www.CityFlatsHotel.com
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Schools Go Green Homework, Lunch, Buses Get an Eco-Makeover by Avery Mack
With paperless homework, bookless backpacks, zero waste lunches, plastic-free filtered water and classrooms without walls, today’s parents and teachers are bringing eco-friendly ways to schools and giving students an early appreciation of the importance of environmental health.
G
oing green goes both ways— home to school and school to home. Alysia Reiner, an actress and eco-advocate from New York’s Harlem neighborhood, became involved with the Bank Street School for Children when her daughter enrolled at age 3. “I’m green at home, so in my mind her school had to be green, too. With no programs in place, I made suggestions, which got me elected co-chair of the green committee,” says Reiner, with a smile. “Today, we have a school-wide composting program serving 1,500 students that has reduced previous levels of food waste by 75 percent. To raise awareness and funds to support it, we sold reusable snack sacks, stainless steel water bottles and home composting bags.” An innovative chef focuses on organic foods with vegetarian options for school lunches. The next step is a rooftop garden. When Sheila Hageman, an author, teacher and public speaker living in Milford, Connecticut, first read the memo requesting garbage-free lunches for
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her three children at the New England School-Montessori, she couldn’t imagine packing food without the use of plastic wrap, sandwich bags or paper napkins, but, “Now, it’s no big deal,” she says. “I use glass containers and cloth napkins. The kids eat better quality food. It costs less, too, because prepackaged snacks are out.” She notes that the governing rule is one protein, one fruit and one vegetable. The school even has a natural composter—a class guinea pig that loves to eat leftover veggies. Students often bring the first of their homegrown vegetables each season for show and tell in the classroom, where they normally eat lunch. It’s a neat way to avoid massproduced food; the school has no cafeteria. “A little change becomes part of a
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lifestyle,” remarks Hageman. Oxbridge Academy of the Palm Beaches, for grades nine through 12, in West Palm Beach, Florida, provides a near-paperless experience for students, all of which are issued computers. Homework is assigned, completed, graded and returned; tests are given and graded; report cards are sent and textbooks studied—all online. “We buy one set of print books, since not all students learn the same way. But e-books can be updated electronically each year, saving the educational costs of outdated materials and financial costs of replacement,” says Teresa Thornton, Ph.D., the science teacher who spearheaded many of the school’s green initiatives. “By the end of the year, they know how to use software programs to organize and analyze information.” In Pittsburgh, Chatham University follows the example of eco-pioneer and Silent Spring author Rachel Carson, a class of 1929 alumna, to preserve, maintain and restore nature. With the goal to be carbon neutral by 2025, sustainability becomes part of every decision. The Chatham Eastside facility, located in a revitalization area, reclaimed a former manufacturing complex. “We are the first school in Pennsylvania to have a solar hot water system,” says Mary Whitney, the school’s sustainability coordinator. “Bottled water was banned in 2011 and filtered water stations provide free refills for stainless steel bottles. The rent-a-bike program is especially popular with international students.” The two campus Zipcars shared by students can be reserved for a fee. Students also ride free on public transportation. In Chattanooga, Tennessee, at the Calvin Donaldson Environmental Science Academy, students gain the knowledge and experience to extend the difference they make beyond greening their school. Anne Vilen, a designer for expeditionary learning schools like Donaldson, says, “It’s empowering for students to discover they can make a real impact.” Connect with Avery Mack via AveryMack@Mindspring.com.
Pre-K to College Eco-Lessons Green Apple is a global movement to put all children in schools where they have clean and healthy air to breathe, where energy and resources are conserved and where they can be inspired to dream of a brighter future. The Green Apple Day of Service, which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013, gives parents, teachers, students, companies and local organizations the opportunity to transform all schools into healthy, safe and productive learning environments through local service projects. Below are a few events happening here in West Michigan:
GRCC - USGBC Green Apple Day
Time: September 28, 9:00am-1:00pm Host: Rick Zimonick Grand Rapids Community College, 143 Bostwick NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Make a Start, Do Your Part, Reduce-Reuse-Recycle
The most important aim for us today should be the concept of reduce, reuse, and recycle. We need to reduce the use of non-biodegradable objects. We need to reuse objects as often as possible and recycle as well. Lincoln School is offering opportunities for the community to do their part in the 3 R’s of recycling. We will be collecting gently used clothing, electronics, and household items that will be donated to Goodwill Industries. Containers will be available at Lincoln School to receive the donations from September 19th thru September 26th. Time: September 19 (All Day Event) Host: Mary Simot Lincoln School, 860 Crahen Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Back to the Compost! (Waste Not)
We will begin using our compost containers for both breakfast and lunch times. Time: September 23, 9:00am & September 27, 9:00am Host: William Smith CA Frost Environmental Science Academy 1460 Laughlin Dr NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Let’s reuse it! (Waste Not)
We will collect used clothing & household items for donation to Goodwill Industries. Time: September 25 (All Day Event) Host: William Smith Zoo School, 1300 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Hey that can be REUSED! (Waste Not)
Items will be collected and given to Goodwill which sells them and uses the profits to fund job training programs, employment placement services and other community-based programs for people who have disabilities, lack education or job experience, or face employment challenges. Time: September 27 (All Day Event) Host: William Smith Blandford School, 1715 Hillburn Ave, NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544
Your Thyroid Needs Protection! Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine Can Provide the Protection You Need Almost everyone is routinely exposed to iodine-depleting radiation emitted by cell phones, WI-FI and microwave ovens. Proper iodine supplementation with a high-quality product like Natural Awakenings Detoxified Iodine can prevent harm by protecting the thyroid and restoring proper hormone production. Iodine replacement has been reported to give relief from: • Depression • Weight Gain • Fibromyalgia • Low Energy • Hypothyroidism • Hyperthyroidism • Radiation • Bacteria & Viruses
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Tree Planting-MI (Take It Outside)
Time: September 28, 12:00-3:00pm Host: Steve Fillmore Contact: 231-767-3695, Muskegon, MI 49442 Go to www.MyGreenApple.org to see how your school/organization can participate.
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September 2013
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calendarofevents Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. All Calendar events must be submitted online by the 15th of the month prior to publication.
ALL MONTH LONG
Registration for Classes- 8:00am-5:00pm. Taking applications now for the October start of the Natural Health Educator and the Therapeutic Bodywork Practitioner programs. Seats are limited - get your packet of materials today. Call 989-773-1714, or email contact@naturopathicinstitute.info. 503 East Broadway Street, Mount Pleasant.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
Guided Meditation and Healing Circle- 7:00-8:00 pm. Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation, and energy healing from Healing in America-trained healers. $5 donation. Holistic Care Approach 3368 Beltline Ct., NE, Grand Rapids. For more info call: 269-908-1016. Free Shamanic Healing Information Session7:15-8:30pm. What IS shamanism and shamanic healing? Join EOG owner Andy Groggel, M.A. as he answers your questions. Andy will share some of his knowledge, provide a brief demonstration of the shamanic healing techniques he uses and offer a relaxation exercise. 5270 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
EcoTrek with Kelsey- 5:30-6:45am. Park under the farmer’s market canopies. $10 drop-in, signup@ ecotrekfitness.com. Chinook Pier, 301 N. Harbor Dr, Grand Haven. EcoTrek with Jennephyr- 6:00pm-7:15pm. Meet at Rosa Parks Circle in front of the Grand Rapids Art Museum. We’ll explore the urban terrain of Downtown GR, ending back at the GRAM for a peaceful yoga stretch. $10 drop-in, signup@ecotrekfitness. com. Rosa Parks Circle, Downtown Grand Rapids. Healthseekers Free Class- 6:00-7:15pm. There is a high level of vitality and healing beyond the absence of pain. Find out how homeopathy & chiropractic are a perfect fit, restoring balance & optimizing functioning of your entire system down to the cellular and vibrational level. www.angeltouchfamilychiropractic.com. 231-670-0179. 4265 Grand Haven Road, Suite 203, Muskegon.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
An Evening of Yoga Nidra- 6:30-8:00pm. Yoga nidra or “yogic sleep” is a conscious state of deep relaxation. During this workshop, we will have a gentle yoga practice followed by a yoga nidra practice, where we will revitalize and open the energy channels using guided imagery. $20. PeaceLab Yoga, 5570 Wilson Ave., Suite M, Grandville.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
Bija Yoga Prenatal Program- 12:00-1:15pm. Yoga has many benefits during pregnancy! Learn how to align your body correctly as your center of
gravity changes, breathing techniques, as well as gentle movements that help open the pelvis. For more information call 616-935-7028. $10 drop in. On the Path Yoga, 701 E. Savidge #3, Spring Lake. Live Fearlessly! An Afternoon with Anita Moorjani - 12:30-5:30pm, Grandville High School Performing Arts Center. One-day seminar featuring Hay House author Anita Moorjani. Other Coptic speakers: John Davis, Denise Iwaniw, Robert Huttinga. $40/person. Register at www.TheCopticCenter. org.Presented by Coptic Fellowship International. 616-531-1339. 4700 Canal Ave SW, Grandville. Your Healing Gift; An Introduction to Energy Healing- 1:00-4:30pm. This introductory class as taught by England’s renowned Healing Trust will teach you energy healing tools you will be able to use immediately to invoke remarkable changes in your life. Taught by licensed trainer Laurie DeDecker, RN, MHIA. $45. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct. NE, Grand Rapids. Partner Thai Yoga Workshop- 6:00-8:00pm- Thai massage is designed to be beneficial for both the giver and the receiver. Thai Bodywork works with the whole body, incorporating principles of martial arts, yoga and excellent body mechanics. $45/ couple. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
EcoTrek with Jennephyr- 10:00am-11:15am. The Park’s 250 acres on the east and west sides of the Grand River offer a refreshing and beautiful natural environment within the City. $10 drop-in, signup@ ecotrekfitness.com. Riverside Park, Grand Rapids. Animal Medicine and Power Animals: Learning to Interpret Nature’s Messages- 2:00-5:00pm. Join Andy Groggel, M.A. to explore methods through which one can deepen their understanding of the animals and animal spirits present for each of us and learn to interpret their meanings. $25. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Book Focus/Growth Group- 4:30-6:30pm. Study the book Path of Transformation by Shakti Gawain in a small intentional community seeking wholeness, growth, insight, and self-healing. The group will be facilitated by Toni Van Dyken, a certified Spiritual Director and ordained Interfaith Minister. $85. For more information call 616-935-7028. On the Path Yoga, 701 E. Savidge #3, Spring Lake.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9
Guided Meditation and Healing Circle- 7:458:45pm. Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation, and energy healing from trained healers. $5. Satya Yoga, 133 Butler St., Saugatuck.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10
EcoTrek with Kym- 6:15pm-7:30pm. Mostly flat
Shading represents special events in honor of NATIONAL YOGA MONTH!
but packed full of great trails and fun things to do. All paved trails. $10 drop-in, signup@ecotrekfitness.com. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard SW, Grand Rapids. Meditation with Monica Verplank- 6:30-7:30pm. Introducing Monica Verplank a Deepak Chopra Certified Meditation instructor. Join her for a guided meditation and principles of meditation. Open to all levels. $20 with pre-payment at www.lisawlee. com or $25 at door. Lisa W. Lee’s International Wellness Partners, 14998 Cleveland St. Suite C, Spring Lake. lisa@lisawlee.com with questions.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
Choosing Safer Cosmetics- 6:00pm. Do you want to make healthier choices & avoid unsafe ingredients in the cosmetics you use? If so, gather up some friends for this informative & fun workshop. Receive 10% off total purchase day of event. $10 non-refundable deposit requested. Call Teri 616419-8115 to RSVP. Serendipite Organiques, 959 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
PeaceLab Yoga Momma: Pre/Post Natal Yoga5:30-6:30pm. 7-week series through 10/24. Start or continue your yoga practice during this very special time in your life. Share with other mothers and mums-to-be. You will feel supported mind, body and spirit. Suitable for all experience levels. $75. PeaceLab Yoga, 5570 Wilson Ave., Suite M, Grandville. Free Community Workshop: Trigger Point Massage - 6:00pm. Dr. Michael Kwast, DC, CSCS discusses Trigger Point Massage. Learn what a trigger point is, what causes them, how to prevent them, how to get rid of them, hands on training. Seating limited to first 30 callers. RSVP today: 616-4479888. 4150 East Beltline Suite #4, Grand Rapids. Celebrate World Day of Prayer- 7:00pm. Beginning at 9am for silent prayer and meditation in the sanctuary, peace chapel and garden. A sacred prayer service on the theme, Living Well: Nurturing Mind, Body, Spirit, will be held in the sanctuary at 7pm. Free. All are invited to attend. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave. NW, Grand Rapids.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
Universal Spiritual Practice with Chris Wheeler6:15-7:30pm. We invite you to embrace your mind, body, and spirit as we explore and embrace all world religions. Program is based on Unity and Oneness as shared by Sufi Master Hazrat Inayat Khan. Donation. Heart’s Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
Absolute Beginners Yoga Series- 11:00am12:15pm. Join certified Kripalu Yoga Teacher Rose Ranthum in this series aimed for the brand new, never ever yoga student. Recovering from injury, restricted in some way, or just curious? Meets 4 Saturdays in a row and requires a minimum of 5 participants. $40. PeaceLab Yoga, 5570 Wilson Ave., Suite M, Grandville. Growing Older...Becoming Wiser- 1:00-4:00pm. Join other women in exploring our living legacies, embracing the wise woman within, and harvesting the wisdom of our years of experience. $10. Reg-
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istration required: janistz@hotmail.com. Circle of Crones, 450 Briar Lane, NE, Briarlane Apts Community Bldg, Grandville.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
Bootcamp- 5:30am. Bootcamp will run 3 times a week for six weeks and then will not be offered again until Spring, so spots are limited, get yours today. Want to try but not sure? Contact iTrain at 616-541-5438 or email itrain4it@gmail.com.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
Kids Yoga- 5:00-5:45pm. 6-week series for ages 7-10. Designed for young yogis that will consist of traditional yoga poses, creative movement, stories and meditation. Classes will be fun, centering and active with a bit of reflection and art. Requires minimum of 5 participants. $65. PeaceLab Yoga, 5570 Wilson Ave., Suite M, Grandville. Intro to Herbs and Essential Oils to Beat the Winter Bugs & Blues- 7:30-9:30pm. Lecture, Handouts, and Hands-on learning with one herbal and one essential oil remedy to take with. $40. Payment & Registration due in advance. Call Moondrop Herbals at 616-735-1285 or see ad. 351 Cummings, NW, Grand Rapids.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Free Introductory Talk- 8:00pm. Live each day in praise, gratitude and love. The Simple Practice of The Ishayas. Schulers Books & Music, 3165 Alpine Ave, Walker.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
What Is Yoga Therapy with Sue Dilsworth, PhD6:15-7:30pm. Yoga Therapy explores the whole person as a system of parts: structural, nervous, psychological and spiritual. The assessment combined with the ancient practices of Ayurvedic principles ultimately allows you to feel connected to your own healing. Donation. Heart’s Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale. First Sphere Weekend Workshop- 7:00-10:00pm &10:00am-5:00pm on Saturday & Sunday. Registration is Required so please contact us today. Visit theishayafoundation.org/courses.php for upcoming events & course schedule. To Register or for more information, contact 573-261-9373 or ishaya.arya@ gmail.com. Wyoming. EcoTrek with Cari- 9:00pm-10:15pm. Full Moon Adventure Workout. Bring a flashlight. $5 per person. Sign up by calling 616-291-2851 or signup@ ecotrekfitness.com. Lake Forest Cemetery/South End Mulligan’s in Grand Haven.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
Peace and Balance Meditation Workshop- 1:003:00pm. Celebrate the Autumnal Equinox and UN International Day of Peace together in a workshop that will combine gentle movements, Pranayama, silent meditation, and good intentions for a world of Peace and Balance. $25. For more information call 616-935-7028. On the Path Yoga, 701 E. Savidge #3, Spring Lake.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
Free Community Workshop: Trigger Point Massage - 6:00pm. Dr. Michael Kwast, DC, CSCS discusses Trigger Point Massage. Learn what a trig-
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ger point is, what causes them, how to prevent them, how to get rid of them, hands on training. Seating limited to first 30 callers. RSVP today: 616-4479888. 4150 East Beltline Suite #4, Grand Rapids.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
Advertising, Body Image and Women’s Self Esteem- 10:00am-12:00pm. l0/2, 10/9 & 10/16. This workshop will heighten awareness of the pervasive, cumulative effect of advertising on women and girls. Near Cascade Road and I-96. Space is limited so register early. Fee donation to local charity. For more info visit www.susanmcfarland.com. Choosing Safer Cosmetics- 6:00pm. Do you want to make healthier choices & avoid unsafe ingredients in the cosmetics you use? If so, gather up some friends for this informative & fun workshop. Receive 10% off total purchase day of event. $10 non-refundable deposit requested. Call Teri 616419-8115 to RSVP. Serendipite Organiques, 959 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Advertising, Body Image and a Women’s Self Esteem- 6:00-8:00pm. 10/3, 10/10 & 10/17. Workshop will heighten awareness of the pervasive, cumulative effect of advertising on women and girls. Zen Center at 451 S. Division. Space is limited. Fee donation to Zen Center. For info visit www. susanmcfarland.com. Healthseekers Free Class- 6:00-7:15pm. There is a high level of vitality and healing beyond the absence of pain. Find out how homeopathy & chiropractic are a perfect fit, restoring balance & optimizing functioning of your entire system down to the cellular--and vibrational--level. www.angeltouchfamilychiropractic.com. 231-670-0179. 4265 Grand Haven Road, Suite 203, Muskegon. Introduction to Passage Meditation- 7:00-8:00pm. Introduction to Passage Meditation and the Allied Skills as taught by Eknath Easwaran. Free will offering. Interested adults welcome, no registration needed. For more information visit www.Easwaran. org. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker NW, Grand Rapids.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Energy Balancing Weekend Retreat- Located on the beautiful shoreline of Lake Huron. Each guest enjoys Reiki, Reflexology, Massage, Yoga, 2 brunches, free lodging and entire use of our lake house including kitchen. Call 989-739-5498 or visit expressionsofhealth.com for more information. $250/person. Expressions of Health, 6170 Ridge Road, Oscoda. Meditation with Carol Hendershot- 6:15-7:30pm. Feeling overwhelmed? Learn more about the healing benefits of meditation and how it helps quiet the mind, heal the body or move you toward spiritual enlightenment. Learn both formal and informal practices to cultivate this transformative tool to manage your stress. Donation. Heart’s Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Naturopathic Understanding of Pharmaceutical Pathways in the Body- 9:00am-5:00pm. 9/28 & 9/29. Come to this two-day event for an understanding of how pharmaceuticals react with the body’s pathways. Free parking is available. For those
NaturalWestMichigan.com
traveling from a distance, room accommodations are available on site for $40 for the weekend. $178. 503 East Broadway Street, Mount Pleasant.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
Exploring Truth-Women’s Spiritual Wellness Group- 11:30am-1:00pm. 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 & 11/3. Interested in authentic dialogue with likeminded women? Zen Center at 451 S. Division. Space is limited so register early. Consolidation of ideas from Buddhism, neuroscience and therapy. Fee donation to Zen Center. For more info visit www. susanmcfarland.com.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2
An Evening of Metta Meditation- 6:00-9:00pm. Practicing loving-kindness toward ourselves with Janice Lynne Lundy. Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness presents an evening of Metta Meditation, cultivating unconditional friendliness toward ourselves. $35.Wellness Forum, 4990 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
Fall Meditation Retreat Mindfulness and the Heart: Combining Compassion and Practice with April Hadley & Carol Hendershot- 10/4-10/6. The Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness invites you to reconnect with your mind, heart and body with guided practices centering around mindfulness and compassion. Wonderful Vegetarian Meals. $360 Shared - $425 Single. Barothy Lodge, Walhalla.
savethedate Save The Date Events Must be submitted online each month at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Events priced $80 or above require a corresponding display ad. There is a $40 charge per listing, up to 50 words. If you are a current advertiser, distribution site or non-profit you just use this listing in place of 2 of your free listings.
savethedate October 23-27 Awakening The Illuminated Heart Workshop9:00am-6:00pm each day. Join Neshi Lokotz at The Red Spirit Retreat near Saugatuck, MI for a life changing workshop based on the life’s work of Drunvalo Melchizedek. Remember how to create and live your life from your heart. $595. Details at www.sacredhoop.net. The Red Spirit Retreat, Saugatuck.
savethedate November 8 Third Annual Tellabration - 7:00-8:30pm. Yarnspinners of Muskegon will present their Third Annual Tellabration. A storytelling concert for adults. Share the joy and enchantment of stories with us. For information contact Ned Carter, 231-755-2383; carteredwin93@yahoo.com. $5 per person; $15 for families. Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave, Muskegon.
ongoingevents Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. Events must be re-submitted each month by the 15th of the month. Events subject to change, please call ahead.
Sunday Spirit Space Sunday Worship- 10:30am. Join us for inspiring messages called Reasonings. Spirit Space is an inner-faith spiritual enrichment center. Take a virtual tour at www.spirit-space.org. Free. 3493 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck.
Creation’s Lessons for Living- 7:00pm. 2nd & 4th Wednesdays. Creation desires to help us grow, mature, evolve. Explore this possibility through the teachings of the shamanic Sweet Medicine SunDance Path. Donation. Call 616-856-4957 for more information.
Thursday
Sunday Worship and Youth Services- 10:30am. Variety of classes held weekly. A warm, welcoming, New Thought, spiritual community, inclusive and accepting of all, honoring diversity, for those seeking spiritual truth. Unity of GR, 1711 Walker Ave. NW, Grand Rapids. www.unityofgrandrapids.org.
Advanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.
Monday
Friday
Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30pm. All levels. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.
September Special- During the month of September, mention this ad in the Natural Awakenings Magazine and receive a 15% discount on your purchase Not to be combined with existing specials/discounts. Not valid on bars or drinks. Affordable Nutrition, 4693 Wilson Ave, Grandville. 616-667-1346.
A Course In Miracles Healing Circle- 7:008:30pm. Space to feel; space to heal. An ACIMbased support group. All are welcome. Prior experience with the Course unnecessary. Free. Fountain Street Church, Grand Rapids. 616-458-5095.
Tuesday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman- 7:459:00am & 9:15-10:30am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.
Wednesday $20 off BioMeridian Assessments- Food allergies, environmental allergies, organ function and real food menus and shopping lists for families that are healthy and kid-approved. Visit www. integrativenutritionaltherapies.com or 616-3659176. Grand Rapids. Discussion and Meditation- 6:00pm. Come, Let Us Reason Together every at Spirit Space. The evening starts with light refreshments, followed by a discussion from 6:30-7:15pm, ending with silent meditation till 8 pm. Spirit Space is an inner-faith spiritual enrichment center. Visit www.spirit-space. org. Free. 3493 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck.
Village Farmers Market- 2:00-7:00pm. 5/17-Labor Day. Buy fresh & local from producers that utilize organic farming practices -eggs, meats, cheese, fruits & vegetables, organic Michigan milk and more. Please visit us on Facebook. Spring Lake. 616-935-7312. Friday Night Light- 6:00-7:15pm. Basic yoga class for all levels with a bit of partner work thrown in for fun. Bring a friend, spouse, or family member and join the community for some optional social time after class, too. $10 drop-in. For more info call 616-935-7028. On the Path Yoga, 701 E. Savidge #3, Spring Lake.
Saturday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 9:0010:15am & 10:30-11:45am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for info. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio. Montague. 231-740-6662. Sweetwater Local Foods Market- 9:00am-1:00pm. Hackley Health at the Lakes building on Harvey Street. We are indoors if the weather is bad. We are a double up bucks and bridge card market. Hesperia. 231-861-2234.
Shading represents special events in honor of NATIONAL YOGA MONTH!
classifieds To place a Classified Listing: Email listing to Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. $1.00 per word; must be pre-paid.
CLASSES Energy Healings and Training, Reiki & Urevia Healings/Classes - held near Hastings at Subtle Energies w/ Ken & Dana Gray. Learn a variety of techniques that can heal your life. Reiki I & Urevia Practitioner classes are eligible for NAN 20% discount. Visit www.reikiconnect.com for more information.
FOR SALE Hardy Dam/Muskegon River near - 80 acres, 6 bedroom home, outbuildings; garage, barn. Fishing and hunting area. Robb Breen: 1-231327-1147. robbreen@sbcglobal.net Northwest Grand Rapids Commercial Building- 1058 Richmond NW, Grand Rapids, MI. Current use is a full service salon on the main floor and a spacious 3 bedroom apartment on the 2nd floor. Great location on Richmond with steady traffic and across from the popular Richmond Park. Only $140,000! Call Jeff Blahnik at Five Star Real Estate 616-791-1500 or visit JeffBlahnik.com for more information.
HELP WANTED Green Smoothie Girl Apprentice Coach Looking for a leader who is passionate about teaching plant based nutrition and medicine. Team with current revenues exists. Qualities: self starter; practices healthy lifestyle; motivated leader. www.speakyourhealth.com. Email: coachcathi@greensmoothiegirl.com Inside Sales Associates Wanted to set up appointments for Natural Awakenings Sales staff. Must have professional phone voice and good communication skills. Computer knowledge a plus. All leads provided. Work from home, part-time on your own schedule. Fixed fees paid for appointments scheduled, meetings completed plus bonus paid on final sale. Email resume to info@na-pr.com.
OPPORTUNITIES Holistic & Green Business Owners Wanted for Health Network- NAN, the Natural Awakenings Network, is a green and healthy living network that will allow members to enjoy discounts on products & services focused on wellness, green/ sustainable living and healthy lifestyles. If you are interested in becoming a provider (a business or organization that offers discounts to members) in this innovative network or want more details, contact Natural Awakenings at 616-656-9232 or Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Participating as a Provider is FREE for the 1st year.
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thenaturaldirectory ...connecting you to the leaders in natural health and green living in West Michigan. To find out how you can be included in The Natural Directory log-on to www.NaturalWestMichigan.com/advertising.
BODY APPLICATIONS
Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com
SALLY DERSCH
Frequency Apps Wellness Center 12505 Northland Dr. Suite A6, Cedar Springs, MI 49319 616-755-8446 www.FrequencyApps.com We are the leader in new generation homeopathic body applications known as the Frequency App! 50+ varieties of Apps including hCG, Weight Loss, Hormone, Sleep, Detox, Supplements, MSA Testing, Food/Environmental Allergy Analysis, Ionic Foot Baths.
BODY CARE PRODUCTS SÉRENDIPITÉ ORGANIQUES, LLC 959 Lake Dr SE, Suite 2, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-419-8115 www.SerendipiteOrganiques.com facebook.com/SerendipiteOrganiques
*NEW LOCATION! A retail store exclusively offering organic non-toxic makeup, skincare & other products for your body, home, & pets! Products must score ‘Low Hazard 0-2’ on ewg.org/skindeep, or they simply won’t be considered!
BODYWORK LIGHTRAYS
CranioSacral Therapy (CST)/Reiki Master Jamie VanDam 4456 Miramar Ave. NE Grand Rapids, 49525 616-365-9113
Reiki Master, CranioSacral Therapist uses light touch to release restrictions and ease pain in the body addressing many physical ailments in adults, children and pediatrics. Adding Essential Oils optimizes mental and emotional health.
Look for this symbol throughout Natural Awakenings for Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) providers offering savings to NAN members. 44
West Michigan Edition
WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC
Certified Massage Therapist offering Therapeutic, Hot Stone & Matrix Massage. Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, and a Certified Reflexologist. See ad page 21.
BUILDING/CONSTRUCTION DLH CONCEPTS
Kyle Hass Licensed Residential Home Builder 616-299-5815 dlhconcepts@gmail.com Locally owned and operated. Specializing in building quality livable and affordable new homes that are Energy Efficient and utilize Green Building practices. Unmatched efficiencies and uncompromising quality. Call today for a free quote. See ad page 10.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Ronda VanderWall 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050 www.DynamicChiro.com
Family owned and operated in the heart of downtown Grandville, Dynamic Family Chiropractic focuses on lifestyle improvements through living a maximized life. A safe and natural approach to health through the combination of exercise, nutrition, detoxification and chiropractic care.
GASLIGHT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC 2249 Wealthy St. SE, Suite #240 East Grand Rapids, 49506 616-458-CFIT (2348) GaslightChiro@gmail.com www.GaslightChiro.com
Experience an individualized, holistic healthcare approach! We combine spinal adjustments, Contact Reflex & Nutrition Response (Muscle Testing), Whole Food Supplementation Orthotics, Massage & Aromatherapy. Common conditions we see include: Chronic Fatigue, Headaches, IBS, Back & Neck pain and Fibromyalgia.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA
Dr. Andrew Schafer 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000 www.GRChiroSpa.com
Tr e a t i n g m u s c u l o s k e l e t a l conditions, but specializing in b ac k p a in , n eck p ain , a n d headaches. Also offering physical therapy, massage therapy, and postural awareness. Most insurance accepted. Breton Village area. See ad page 7 & 30.
CLEANING PRODUCTS NATURAL HEALTH 4 TODAY, LLC
Clara VanderZouwen, NORWEX Consultant 616-698-6148 claravz@sbcglobal.net www.NaturalHealth4Today.com Imagine cleaning with only water! Improve the quality of your life with Norwex products by radically reducing the use of chemicals in personal care and cleaning. Save Time & Money.
COLON HYDROTHERAPY HARMONY ’N HEALTH
Mary De Lange, CCT. CMT. 1003 Maryland Ave, N.E., Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 www.HarmonyNHealth.net Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment. Using a holistic approach, colonics relieves constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloat, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad page 5.
TRICIA E. GOSLING
Natural Health & Healing Center 723 Kenmoor SE Grand Rapids 49546 616-481-9074 www.holisticenergytherapies.net Offering an advanced clientcentered dimension of colonics: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 16 years of experience. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions. I-ACT certified Instructor.
DENTISTRY / HOLISTIC DENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. Kevin P. Flood DDS 616-974-4990 www.FloodTheDentist.com Comprehensive Holistic Dental Services – Amalgam Removal & Replacement. Bio-Compatible, metal-free materials, Low-Dose Digital X-Rays, Gentle Anesthesia, Dentistry for Diabetes, TMJ, Chronic Head & Neck pain and Non Surgical Perio. See ad page 48.
ENERGY HEALING AMA~DEUS®
Elizabeth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 ElizabethCosmos@sbcglobal.net www.Ama-Deus-International.com AMA-DEUS energy healing method is a hand mediated technique. Love is the basis for this healing technique, which helps to enhance our spiritual growth, expand our awareness, and promotes physical & emotional healing. See ad page 14.
MATRIX ENERGETICS
Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com Matrix Energetics is a system used to heal, transform and create new possibilities in your life. Using the principles of quantum physics and subtle e n e rg y d u r i n g a M a t r i x Energetics session we are able to enter into different realties and download new possibilities for your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual selves. See ad page 21.
ESSENTIAL OILS BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILS Clara VanderZouwen 616-698-6148 claravz@sbcglobal.net www.NaturalHealth4Today.com
Learn how to address issues of Pain, Stress, Hormone Imbalance, Weight Management, ADD, Allergies, Diabetes & more with Essential Oils, Ionic Foot Baths, BioEnergy scans, Nutritional & NEW Earthing products! Free monthly classes.
HAKOMI THERAPY KEN PORTER CST, CHT
HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTERS THE HEALING CENTER
534 Fountain NE, Grand Rapids MI 49503 616-262-3848 www.BodyandSoulGR.com
Hakomi Therapy can truly change your life. It’s a mindfulnessbased, experiential therapy for transforming the unconscious patterns that keep you from the love, joy, and fulfillment you deserve. Offered with exquisite care and attentiveness.
HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER THE WELLNESS FORUM
Bob Huttinga PA-C & Rev. Barbara Huttinga 332 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com Affordable, natural approach to better health. Certified nutritional consultant with 22 years experience. Offering select, high quality vitamins, minerals, herbs, children’s products, essential oils, homeopathics, weight loss and more. Professional discounts and senior pricing. www.affordablenutrition.com. See ad in page 20.
HOMEOPATHY
4990 Cascade Road, Grand Rapids 616-430-2291 www.WellnessForum.com
BOB HUTTINGA PA-C
Educational programs for personal health improvement Workplace wellness programs Wellness Forum Foundation focused on school nutrition and children’s health - National conferences.
332 S. Lincoln Ave Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com A Certified Physician Assistant since 1976, specializing in naturopathic and homeopathic care. Family care. Also, certified Silva Method instructor. We use Clinical Homeopathy to assist traditional medications. We take most insurances. See ad page 20.
HEALTH FOOD STORES AFFORDABLE NUTRITION
Joel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner 4693 Wilson Ave. SW Suite I, Grandville 616-667-1346 Joel@Affordable-Nutrition.com
INSTRUCTION/CLASSES
Affordable, natural approach to better health. Certified nutritional consultant with 22 years experience. Offering select, high quality vitamins, minerals, herbs, children’s products, essential oils, homeopathics, weight loss and more. Professional discounts and senior pricing. www.Affordable-Nutrition.com.
HEAL YOUR LIFE
Katrina Ryan 269-214-4432 KatrinaLRyan@gmail.com www.IDeserveGood.com Based on the philosophy of bestselling Author Louise L. Hay’s 9 points of Philosophy. Led by Licensed Heal Your Life Facilitator Katrina Ryan. Call Katrina today to host your very own Heal Your Life workshop!
HEALTH HUTT
Grand Haven 616-846-3026 Muskegon 231-739-1568 North Muskegon 231-744-0852 Find us on Facebook
AligA C INTERIOR
DESIGN SERVICES
ALIGN DESIGN, LLC
Natural & organic foods, vitamins & herbs, sports nutrition, gluten free food, natural body and homecare products. Open 7 days a week. See ad page 21.
Shawn Merkel, ASID, IIDA 616-916-1071 shawnmerk@gmail.com www.Aligndesigngr.com Align your space to be a true reflection of who you are. Specializing in Wholistic design, repurposing and Feng Shui. Full service Residential and commercial Interior design. See ad page 10.
Look for this symbol throughout Natural Awakenings for Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) providers offering savings to NAN members. natural awakenings
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SANATIVE TRANQUILITY WELLNESS SPA
KINESIOLOGY
0-11279 Tallmadge Woods Dr. Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-791-0472 www.SanativeTranquility.com
WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com
Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Matrix E n e rg e t i c s P r a c t i t i o n e r, Certified Massage Therapist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner and Certified Reflexologist. Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling, lectures and classes. See ad page 21.
MASSAGE THERAPY DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY
Wellness spa for massage, bodywork and skincare therapy. Offering a wide diversity of style to encompass the mind, body and spirit of today’s lifestyle. Come in and enjoy our stress free spa environment today.
SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA
Sheri Beth Schafer, CMT, Ayurvedic Bodyworker, Reiki Master 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000 We have multiple certified massage therapists offering relaxation, prenatal, deep tissue massage, and medical massage. We also offer Reiki, chakra balancing, and Ayurvedic bodywork. Breton Village area. www.grchirospa. com. See ad page 7 & 30.
Jaci Timmermans, MT 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville, MI 49418 616-531-6050 www.DynamicChiro.com. I offer Swedish massage with Integrated Te c h n i q u e s , c h o s e n specifically to your unique body. Relieve those tired and sore muscles and rejuvenate! Call for ongoing monthly specials and discounts.
HANDS ON HEALING PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY LLC Pattie Kooy, CMMT, CMT, HTP 5286 Plainfield NE Plainfield Twp, MI 49525 616-648-7217
Professional massage therapist offering Medical Massage, Manual Therapy, Hot Stone, Healing Touch Therapy, Essential Oils, Infrared heat lamp, Bio-energetic Therapy, Hot castor oil packs, Chinese herbal liniments & Detox Massage. Mention ad for $10 off hour massage.
HARMONY ‘N HEALTH
MIDWIFERY FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERY SERVICE, INC. Patrice Bobier CPM Hesperia: 231-861-2234 www.FullCircleMidwifery.com
In private practice since 1982 specializing in homebirth. Over 1200 births attended. Offering midwifery care that maintains a family-centered safe birth experience. Empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy, give birth naturally and parent in the best ways.
PERSONAL CHEF RELISH, A PERSONAL CHEF SERVICE
Mary De Lange, CCT., CMT. 1003 Maryland Ave NE, Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 www.harmonynhealth.net
Rachel Johnson, Owner and Chef 616-610-2596 Rachel@RelishYourFood.com www.RelishYourFood.com
Over 21 years of professional experience and trained in a complete range of modalities. Whether you are seeking relaxation, renewal, or treatment for a specific condition, Mary will help find an approach that is helpful for you. See ad page 5.
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NaturalWestMichigan.com
Creating healthy and delicious meals for busy families in Holland and the surrounding areas to enjoy in the comfort of their homes. From menu planning to grocery shopping and meal preparation, Relish has you covered. See ad page 12.
PERSONAL TRAINING iTRAIN CONSULTING LLC Aaron & Heather Cobb 616.541.5438 itrain4it@gmail.com www.itrain4it.com
The only personal trainers in Grand Rapids offering a 100% Money Back Guarantee, no tricks, no gimmicks, just results. See ad page 35.
RETREAT CENTER EXPRESSIONS OF HEALTH
Martha and Jeff Gottlieb 6170 Ridge Road Oscoda, MI 48750 989-739-5498 www.ExpressionsOfHealth.com Lake Huron Retreats! Great energy, sunrises, and miles of beach. Free lodging and entire use of our lake house (maximum six guests). Pay only for services and classes. Call or visit our website for details. See ad page 12.
SALON SERVICES CJ’S STUDIO SALON
5286 Plainfield Ave., NE Grand Rapids 49525 616-364-9191 www.CjsStudioSalon.com
I am an award winning Hair Stylist with 30 years Advanced Education. We use and sell Organic Hair Care Products, including Organic Hair Color. We also offer Ionic Detox Foot Baths. See ad page 11.
LONDON STUDIOS SALON Ashley Woods: 616-443-9583 Jessica Willis: 616-460-0902 Sherry Minott: 616-633-5251 Sally Loew: 616-299-1796
Specializing in Organic Colour Systems. Ammoniafree, professionalo n l y, p e r m a n e n t , salon exclusive hair color with 100% certified organic ingredients, natural plant extracts, amino acids, natural anti-oxidants and nutrients that produce the healthiest, richest, colors. www. LondonStudiosSalon.com or Facebook.com/ LondonStudiosSalon.
SCHOOL / EDUCATION INSTITUTE OF SANATIVE ARTS
WEIGHT REDUCTION SALLY DERSCH
Sustaining a Healthy Environment
Frequency Apps Wellness Center 12505 Northland Dr. Suite A6, Cedar Springs, MI 49319 616-755-8446 www.FrequencyApps.com
0-11279 Tallmadge Woods Dr. Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-791-0472 www.SanativeTranquility.com State licensed school for massage and bodywork. Offering high quality, affordable massage certification courses as well as NCBTMB continuing education courses for the experienced therapist. Located conveniently to Grand Rapids, Standale, Walker and Allendale.
NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION 503 East Broadway St. Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 989-773-1714 www.Nite-mtp.com
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 2.
Coming in October
A variety of natural items for your weight loss goals! Frequency Apps patches including hCG, Weight Loss/Power Workout, Appetite Suppressant. Also Supplements including Diatrix (for Diabetics), Green Coffee Bean, and African Mango, MSA Testing, Food/ Environmental Allergy Analysis.
Daily Choices We Make Determine the Well-Being of Our Planet.
For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call
616-656-9232
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