Natural Awakenings Magazine ~ February 2018

E FR

E

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

10 HEART HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES

Rising Above Adversity How to Strengthen Your Resilience Muscle

Mark Rosenfeld’s

Secrets for Successful Love Matches

Beyond Body Image How Teens Can Learn to Love Their Looks

February 2018 | West Michigan Edition | NaturalWestMichigan.com February 2018

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

Contents

12 RISING ABOVE

16

ADVERSITY

How to Strengthen Your Resilience Muscle

16 MEDITATION THAT WORKS

Tips for Finding the Right Practice

18 BE ON THE BALL

Putting Extra Fun into Fitness

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20 FOODS OUR

HEART WILL LOVE

Top 10 Heart Healthy Choices

22 MARK ROSENFELD’S

Secrets for Successful Love Matches

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ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS

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CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Calendar submissions Submit calendar events online at: NaturalWestMichigan.com. Calendar deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

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23 SELF-LOVE 24 BANISHING

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BODY-IMAGE BLUES How Teens Can Learn to Love Their Looks

26 CITY HOMESTEADING Creating Sustainable Urban Living

28 DO-GOOD DOGS

DO ALMOST ANYTHING

Service Animals Train to Help People in Need

DEPARTMENTS 5 news briefs 7 eco tip 8 health briefs 10 global briefs 15 mercury

dangers 16 healing ways 18 fit body 20 conscious

eating 22 wise words 23 inspiration

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24 healthy kids 26 green living 28 natural pet 31 chiro news 34 community

spotlight 40 calendar 43 classifieds 45 resource guide February 2018

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Dusty Brown Photography / DustyBrownPhotography.com

letter from publisher

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Living Courageously

WEST MICHIGAN EDITION

I

see the reason for my amazingly diverse life experience as twofold: First, I am a curious cat and therefore a lifelong learner. Second, I rebound well from failure and am never daunted for long, even after publicly falling flat on my face. In early childhood I developed an inner dialogue with God and felt secure in the knowledge that I was being watched over and everything would somehow be all right. It allowed me to forever push on to my next new adventure or discovery without worrying too much about consequences.

At some point along the way I came to understand that, in the normal course of life, we are harder on ourselves than others can possibly be. With maturity I’ve become better able to focus on just my own concerns and stop worrying about what others think or expect of me. Today, if I start ruminating about something someone said or did that might make me feel sad or depressed, I immediately push it from my thoughts and say “Stop!”

There are times we all run off track. I’ve been known to go into a tailspin and struggle for months to get back on an even keel. Like when Dad made his transition, I lost a job, or a friend betrayed me. In this month’s feature article “Rising Above Adversity” by April Thompson, we find living examples of bigtime resilience talk about how we all can learn to face adversity and emerge stronger and yes, happier.

If I could counsel my dear younger self, my leading message would be “Don’t worry. Everything will eventually work out the way it’s meant to be.” Oh yes, that is pretty much what I knew early on. I just forget sometimes as life unfolds as it must.

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Scott Carvey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Dan Gleason Marlaina Donato Deirdre Kohley, RPh Michele Devos Lussky

CONTACT US P.O. Box 330 Spring Lake, MI 49456 Ph: 616-604-0480 • Fax: 616-855-4202 Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com NaturalWestMichigan.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman

NATIONAL EDITOR Alison Chabonais

MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett SR. ART/MKTG. DIRECTOR Steve Hagewood FINANCIAL MANAGER Mary Bruhn FRANCHISE DIRECTOR Anna Romano RANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs F WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Scofield

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Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised.

Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Pamela Gallina, Publisher

Magazine of West Michigan

EDITORS Rachel Scott McDaniel

Alison Chabonais

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103

To conscious living,

Natural Awakenings

PUBLISHER Pamela Gallina

NaturallyWestMI

NaturallyWestMI

Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan

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

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

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news briefs

EnergyTouch Center Welcomes Sue Krenselewski

T

he EnergyTouch Center is pleased to announce the addition of Sue Krenselewski to their list of independent EnergyTouch Practitioners working out of their 1331 Lake Drive SE location in Grand Rapids.

Pertaining to her approach to Energy Medicine as an EnergyTouch Practitioner, Krenselewski explains, “I help you restore Sue Krenselewski movement and breath to your energy and body. Illness, disease, and physical and emotional trauma can make us feel broken and unable to participate fully in life.

Together, we repair and integrate the broken pieces and release blockages, allowing the you that is whole, vibrant, and alive to emerge and shine. In your energy medicine sessions, you’ll find that I’m straightforward, non-judgmental, honest, kind, and I laugh a lot. I have nearly 20 years of experience working full time as a healer. Seeing clients get better never ever gets old.”

Krenselewski works with adults, teens, horses, and other animals. She can help patients with autoimmune and chronic disease; musculoskeletal issues including arthritis; men’s and women’s heart and reproductive health; anxiety/depression and PTSD. For more information, contact Sue Krenselewski via email at healingsue@gmail.com or call (616) 575-6010. See ad page 15.

Kalamazoo’s Body, Mind & Spirit Expo

T

he 4th annual Body, Mind, and Spirit Expo is from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., March 10, and from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., March 11, in the Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo. This event will be filled with professional mediums, intuitives and holistic healers from across the US & Canada. It will also have tarot & angel readers, aura photos, stones, crystals, pet communicators, body workers, crystal healers, spirit artists, numerology, aromatherapy, astrologist, palmistry, essential oils, flutes, jewelry and more.

Keynote speaker, Adrianna Lesniak, is a gifted intuitive, 3rd generation natural medium, who started communicating with her guides from her early teens. She will be talking and giving messages to attendees from their angels & archangels in a gallery type setting. She will be speaking both days of the expo and offering personal readings also. Her lecture is included in price of admission.

Beverly & John Stephan have been exhibiting in Body Mind & Spirit Expos for over a decade across the US and Canada and have gathered the best of the best under one roof.

All is welcome for a weekend of fun with intuitive readings, holistic healers, and merchandisers. Free ongoing lectures and speakers both days of the expo. A perfect opportunity for us all to spread amazing light to the local community.

Cost: Daily pass is $10, $17 for the weekend, Free for those 12 and under. Location: Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Dr., Kalamazoo. For more information, visit HealingBodyandSpirit.com. See ad page 19.

Top-Ranked Women’s Herbal Conference

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he seventh annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference will be held on June 1, 2 and 3 in Almond, Wisconsin, and registration is open now. This premier event offers excellence in herbal learning opportunities and is renowned for its high-quality instructors, food and community experience. This years featured speaker, Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, is the author of many herbal and natural health books, including the National Geographic publication Life is Your Best Medicine. She will speak about The Greening of Medicine.

The main conference includes more than 65 workshops and presentations for the novice and the experienced herbalist.

Participants will have the opportunity to choose from herbal medicine making, herbs for specific body systems, plant walks, mushroom forays, herbs for personal and/or spiritual growth, herbs for mental health and more.

In addition to the main conference, preconference workshops and immersions will offer in-depth learning experiences on specific topics, including Building Relationships with Plants; Herbs for the Endocrine System; and a Birth Doula Certification Program.

The conference offers a kids camp and a teen program. There is a red tent space for women to gather, a marketplace, swimming, meals, archery, fire circles, an evening dance party and more.

Enter to win one free weekend pass at submit.nachicago.com/ Midwest-Womens-Herbal-Conference-Ticket-Contest. For more information, visit MidwestWomensHerbal.com. See ad page 17.

Spring into Health 2018

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he Health & Wellness Expo is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., April 14, in Grand Rapids.

Attendees will explore new interests, re-ignite their health, and shop for great finds. With a variety of exclusive vendors, attendees can learn about unique opportunities to improve health and wellness while enjoying healthy food, hand-made gifts, and select fashions.

Transform into an eco-model with Clothing Matters and learn about natural and sustainable clothing—it matters! Also, attendees can view a fashion show by Marie La Mode and be entered in drawings for fabulous door prizes.

Location: 2565 Forest Hills Ave. (Lower Level), Grand Rapids. For more information, call 616-724-6368. See ad page 41.

February 2018

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An Introduction to SoulCollage®

news briefs

Ashley Carter Youngblood New Practice and Location

A

shley Carter Youngblood, LMSW, LMFT, has moved to a new location and is now the owner and therapist at Inner Peace Counseling PLC. Ashley is passionate about creating a warm, relaxed, safe, compassionate, and professional atmosphere in which individuals can explore a holistic approach to self-improvement.

Ashley offers individual therapy, couples therapy, Ashley Carter Youngblood family therapy, life coaching, and Acudetox (ear acupuncture used for behavioral health symptoms) and has been in the field since 2007.

While Ashley loves working with people from all walks of life, which is highlighted by the fact that she has spent some time in India, her true passion is working with women to help them empower themselves by discovering their voice and healing their relationships. She views the process of therapy as one of self-discovery where individuals are exploring and listening to their own inner wisdom to bring about the change that they desire. Her specialties include women’s issues, anxiety/trauma, mindfulness, couples counseling, and addiction/substance abuse.

Inner Peace Counseling, PLC is located at 4155 S 9th Street, Suite D in Kalamazoo. For more information about Ashley or the services she offers, you can contact her at 269-254-1211, ashley@ kalamazoo-counseling.com, or browse her website, Kalamazoocounseling.com, for more information. See ad page 45.

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pirit Space is offering and introductory class for SoulCollage® from 1 to 4:30p.m., February 17, in Saugatuck. Come learn an engaging way to listen to the inner voice. Through creating collage cards, participants explore aspects of their souls. The cards are fascinating vehicles to uncover hidden parts of self as well as creating cards for support to others. Attendees can create one card or a whole deck. The workshop will feature a chance to pause, breathe, and reflect through images. They will also learn an overview of SoulCollage®—the history, the suits, the guidelines.

Ruth Zwald is a trained facilitator in the SoulCollage® method. She loves not only the creative process, but the many ways it deepens the spiritual connection to Source, to ourselves, and to others. After creating up to three cards to start their deck, guests can share with other participants in an open and nonjudgmental way. With all supplies included, this workshop will provide everything attendees need to get started on a SoulCollage® journey.

This simple process will engage those who even feel uncreative.

The basic understanding of using scissors and glue sticks are all the skills needed.

Cost is $35. Location: Spirit Space, 3493 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. For more information and to preregister, email Ruth Zwald at ruthzwald55@gmail.com. See ad page 39.

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eco tip

Yes to Yarn

Popular Needlework Crafts Go Green

Whether for function, decoration or personal gifting, the skillful hobbies of yarn arts such as knitting, quilting, weaving, stitching, sewing, crocheting and macramé are going strong. The difference these days is that doing it ecoresponsibly is enhancing the process.

“More people are making and hand-dyeing their own yarn,” says blogger Ann Budd (AnnBuddKnits.com), of Boulder, Colorado, former editor of Interweave Knits magazine and author of Knitting Green. “The results are beautiful with different color combinations, and even striping.”

Also, more yarn is American-sourced. “Shearing and dyeing are done here to cut down on the overall carbon footprint,” explains Budd, who conducts workshops for shops and clubs, plus two annual learning retreats. This year’s are in Savannah, Georgia, from April 26 to 29, and in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, from September 20 to 23.

GreenAmerica.org suggests Green Mountain Spinnery (Spinnery.com) as a U.S. source of certified organic, natural fiber yarns processed without toxic oils, chemicals or dyes; Ecobutterfly Organics (Ecobutterfly.com), for vegan-friendly, fair trade and botanically dyed organic cotton yarns and fiber, recycled glass beads, buttons and kits; and Organic Cotton Plus (OrganicCottonPlus.com), offering certified organic woven and knit fabrics, hemp and hemp-blended fabrics, threads, ribbons and vegetable-based dyes.

Interweave (Interweave.com), a craft magazine publisher, provides video and online education. Learn how to avoid potential hand and arm pain from repetitive motions with the new book Knitting Comfortably: The Ergonomics of Handknitting (ErgoIKnit.com) by San Francisco physical therapist and needlework teacher Carson Demers.

For many needlework fans, charitable volunteering keeps their fingers flying. Members of the nonprofit Mittens for Detroit (MittensForDetroit.org) make mittens, gloves, hats and lapghans for children and adults in need.

Donna Davis, of Roswell, New Mexico, has knitted hats for African newborns, wool items for Eastern European orphans and scarves for American artists.

Learn more at KnittingForCharity.org.

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February 2018

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LOWER BODY MASS

A study of more than 50,000 people in the Czech Republic by the Seventh-Day Adventist Loma Linda University, in California, found that those that made breakfast their largest meal of the day had lower body mass index (BMI) levels. Lunch as the largest daily meal showed the next best results. The researchers concluded that timing and frequency of meals play a role in predicting weight loss or gain. The two factors associated with higher BMI were eating more than three meals a day (snacks were counted as extra meals) and making dinner the day’s largest meal.

Moderate Exercise Guards Against Depression In Exercise and the Prevention of Depression, a study of 33,908 adults in Norway by the University of New South Wales, researchers found that one hour of exercise a week reduced depression in 12 percent of the subjects.

The purpose of the study was to address whether exercise protects against new-onset depression and anxiety and if so, the intensity and amount of exercise required. They concluded that regular leisure-time exercise of any intensity provides protection against future depression, but not anxiety. Thus, increasing the population of people exercising may provide public mental health benefits and prevent a substantial number of new cases of depression.

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Chocolate and Olive Oil Help Heart Health Cardiologist Rossella Di Stefano, with the University of Pisa, in Italy, led a study of 26 people and determined that eating a combination of dark chocolate and olive oil improved cholesterol levels and blood pressure after 28 days. She says, “Fruits and vegetables exert their protective effects through plant polyphenols found in cocoa, olive oil and apples. We found that eating small, daily portions of dark chocolate with added natural polyphenols from extra-virgin olive oil was associated with an improved cardiovascular risk profile. Our study suggests that extra virgin olive oil might be a good food additive to help preserve our ‘repairing cells’.”

Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com

BIG BREAKFAST,

Research from the University of Texas at Arlington reported in The FASEB Journal, published by the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, has found that zinc supplements can inhibit or slow the growth of esophageal cancer cells. The research also found that zinc deficiency is common among throat cancer patients. Zinc-rich foods include spinach, flax seeds, beef, pumpkin seeds and seafood such as shrimp and oysters.

iprachenko/Shutterstock.com

Zinc Inhibits Throat Cancer

Best_photo_studio/Shutterstock.com

health briefs

MaxFXBillion Photos

Antidepressants in Pregnancy Linked to Autism A study by the University of Bristol, England, of 254,610 young people from Stockholm showed that children born to mothers taking antidepressants during pregnancy had more than a 4 percent risk of autism, compared to less than a 3 percent risk in children born to mothers with psychiatric conditions not on antidepressants. Depression is common in women of childbearing age, with 3 to 8 percent of pregnant European women prescribed antidepressants.

But with 95 percent of them bearing children without autism, the risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, say researchers.

MaxFX/Shutterstock.com

Mindfulness Reduces Alcohol Cravings In a randomized, double-blind experiment published in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, University College London researchers found that among 68 heavy drinkers, just 11 minutes of recorded mindfulness training reduced drinking. Subjects were closely matched with an active control group that was taught relaxation techniques. Seven days later, the mindfulness group on average drank 9.3 fewer units of alcohol, roughly equal to three pints of beer, while the relaxation group showed no drop in alcohol consumption.

THIRD-PERSON SELF-TALK AIDS IN EMOTIONAL CONTROL As reported in Scientific Reports, two studies of 37 and 52 people at Michigan State University have discovered that talking to ourselves in the third person using statements like, “Why is John upset?” instead of, “Why am I upset?” can help improve our ability to control our emotions.

Everyone occasionally engages in internal monologue, an inner voice that guides our moment-to-moment reflections. Now, scientists believe that the language used in the process influences actions differently. The premise is that third-person selftalk leads us to think about ourselves similarly to how we think about others, which provides the psychological distance needed to facilitate self-control.

February 2018

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global briefs

Range Brutality

Renewable Payoff Germany Undergoes an Energy Renaissance

Last May, Germany’s renewable energy mix of solar, wind, hydropower and biomass generated so much power for a few hours that customers actually got paid for using electricity. The country’s renewable power sources generate 88 percent of total electricity demand, and growing wind power assets alone are expected to make the phenomenon a regular occurrence. When this happens, commercial producers either close power stations to reduce the electricity supply or pay consumers to take it off the grid.

Anastasija Popova/Shutterstock.com

As we went to press, the fate of 90,000 wild horses and burros depended on Congressional action, as the U.S. Senate and House were hammering out differences in the delayed 2018 spending bill. The Senate version vowed to fund “humane and viable options” to the animal euthanasia allowed in the House bill.

Last October, the National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board recommended that the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) achieve its on-range population goal of 26,715 wild horses and burros while also phasing out the use of long-term holding facilities within three years.

Killing tens of thousands of healthy animals would “be a betrayal of millions of taxpayers that want wild horses protected as intended in the 1971 Wild FreeRoaming Horses and Burros Act,” says Neda DeMayo, president of Return to Freedom Wild Horse Conservation. BLM has been tasked by Congress with the responsibility of protecting wild horses and other wildlife.

The agency has balked at using affordable fertility control, despite ample evidence that it’s a more than 90 percent safe and effective means of population control, critics charge. Instead, it spends 65 percent of its annual budget in capturing, removing and warehousing animals.

xujun /Shutterstock.com

Shooting Wild Horses and Burros

Auto Revolution

China, the world’s largest car market, is planning to stop production and sales of traditional energy vehicles in favor of electric vehicles (EV), and the decision has sped up competitive development by U.S. automakers.

General Motors is promising to launch at least 20 new electric vehicles in the next six years. “General Motors believes the future is all-electric,” says Mark Reuss, the company’s head of product development.

The falling cost of lithium-ion batteries also brings a tipping point into view, observers say. By 2025 it’s possible that electric drivetrains will have no cost disadvantage compared with internal combustion engines.

Technology is fast resetting the outlook for what cars can do, how consumers use them and how much an EV will cost. Tesla, Ford and Japanese and European companies are also responding to what’s being called both “the age of electricity”, and “the age of personalized transportation”.

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andrea lehmkuhl/Shutterstock.com

Industry Revs Up for Electric Car Future

Bureaucratic Bungle

Picsfive/Shutterstock.com

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Yongyut Kumsr/Shutterstock.com

Monsanto Still Gaming the System

Sealife Sanctuary Greenpeace Lobbies to Create Huge Antarctic Preserve

The South Pole is Earth’s last uninhabited outpost, and Greenpeace seeks to establish an Antarctic sanctuary of almost threequarters of a million square miles in the Weddell Sea adjacent to the vast continent that would protect whales, penguins and other wildlife.

The nonprofit has called for governments to show greater vision and ambition. Frida Bengtsson, head of the Greenpeace Antarctic campaign, states, “Over the next 12 months, we have an opportunity to make history: to create an Antarctic Ocean sanctuary which would be the largest protected area on Earth.” She notes that it would also ensure healthier oceans that soak up carbon dioxide to moderate climate change.

The proposal, submitted by the European Union and promoted by the German government, will be considered in October by the governmental bodies responsible for managing the Antarctic marine environment. It follows the successful adoption of the Ross Sea sanctuary in 2016.

Monsanto, the company that makes the controversial weed killer Roundup, is setting farmer against farmer and state against state with its newest product, dicamba. Amid claims and counterclaims over effectiveness and safety of crops and humans, the debate is shedding new light on how new agricultural products are introduced, tested and regulated. One major difference with dicamba is the gaseous vaporization it uses to treat crops, causing the poison to spread onto neighboring plants via wind. Brad Williams, a Missouri farmer, says that leaves on trees were “so deformed you couldn’t even really identify the differences between them.”

The manufacturer claims that proper usage protocols are not being followed. Some farmers agree, while others report crop damage and human health issues. One pivotal point of debate is which federal and state agencies have jurisdiction and the power to set enforceable guidelines. At stake are millions of acres that have already been sprayed, along with the future of non-GMO farms inadvertently contaminated by the dicamba sprayed on genetically modified crops that need the poison to survive.

Bottle Buyback

Britain May Charge Deposit to Reduce Bottle Litter

Britain only recycled 57 percent of the plastic bottles that were sold there in 2016, and is considering charging a deposit fee to reduce litter. Scotland is also introducing a deposit return policy for cans and bottles. Denmark recycles 90 percent and South Australia 80 percent by using deposits as an incentive.

UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove says that almost 8 million tons of plastic are dumped into the world’s oceans each year, with up to 80 percent washing out to sea from land.

Gove is consulting with the industry to determine the advantages and disadvantages of different types of reward and return systems for plastic, metal and glass drinks containers.

Britain’s decision to charge a deposit for each plastic bag in 2015 has slashed usage.

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RISING ABOVE

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ADVERSITY How to Strengthen Your Resilience Muscle

by April Thompson

At one time or another, an estimated 70 percent of people experience a life-altering traumatic event, and most grow stronger from surviving it, according to decades of research by leading institutions like Harvard and Yale universities and the University of Pennsylvania.

We can prepare now for life’s inevitable hurdles and setbacks by developing the skills and tools of resilience.

I

“

t’s an incredibly hopeful message: We can go through the most terrible things imaginable and still get through to a better place,” says David B. Feldman, associate professor of counseling psychology at California’s Santa Clara University and co-author with Lee Daniel Kravetz of Supersurvivors: The Surprising Link Between Suffering and Success.

Such researchers have found that, like elastic stretched beyond its normal limits, people often don’t just bounce back to their old form, but stretch and expand in new ways. The pair conducted in-depth case studies of survivors of extreme traumatic experiences that went on to do bold things. Just one case in point: After losing a leg in a car accident, college basketball player Casey Pieretti reinvented himself as a successful Hollywood stuntman.

According to many studies, 60 to 80 percent of people grow in some way from personal trauma, known as “post-traumatic growth”, according to Feldman. “It can be as simple as appreciating each day more. It can mean deepening relationships. It may result in a renewed sense of spirituality.

Or, it might take one’s life in a dramatically different direction,” he says.

Ila Eckhoff, a financial executive in New York City, has experienced more than her share of challenges: developing cerebral palsy as a toddler, enduring

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12 childhood surgeries, losing her mother at age 11 and four years ago, her husband.

“All of the struggles and losses brought me here, now,” says Eckhoff. “Nobody ever said life was easy. We have greater appreciation for the things that we had to struggle to achieve.”

Choosing self-directedness instead of self-pity in the face of challenges differentiates those that thrive from those that merely survive, observes Catherine Morisset, a life coach from Ottawa, Canada, who specializes in resilience. “It’s taking responsibility for life and managing the way you want to live it. We all have choices, even in the face of difficulty,” she says.

Mastering an Optimal Outlook

“Challenges don’t define you. How you respond does,” remarks Doug Hensch, an executive coach and author of Positively Resilient: 5½ Secrets to Beat Stress, Overcome Obstacles,

and Defeat Anxiety. He attests that having Forces instructors and civilians. They found a growth mindset is vital, focusing on people that rebounded strongly often shared strengths without disregarding areas needcommon attributes, including embracing a ing improvement. spiritual outlook and social network.

Maintaining a balanced outlook that’s

In 2013, Damon Redd, of Boulder, realistic, yet positive, enables individuals to Colorado, awoke to a severe flooding move on from trauma. For supersurvivors, event, with his home and business burbeing pragmatic serves them far better ied under five feet of mud and water that than a false sense of optimism about bad nearly wiped out his clothing business, situations, Feldman found, Kind Design, overnight.

Parents do a saying, “They grieved loss“It was the hardest thing es, but thought realistically disservice to their I’ve ever gone through, about what to do next.” to lose everything I had kids when they

“Optimism in the built. It also gave me a try to remove best sense is focusing on new perspective on what’s adversity from their important. It made me the positive without denying the negative, while aware that you can replace lives. When little focusing on what’s in your physical things, but you things go wrong, control,” notes Hensch. rather than rush to can’t replace memories.

Martin Seligman, My mind was blown away fix it, let the kids known as the “father of by the support I received.” figure out a solution. positive psychology”, Redd ended up paying found that when people They’ll realize it’s not forward the kindness. “We take setbacks personthe end of the world. cleaned and repaired 1,500 ally, viewing them as pairs of gloves in our in~Doug Hensch permanent, pervasive and ventory that were damaged personal, they develop a that day, and are donating sense of learned helplessness that inhibits them to search-and-rescue teams and ski growth and happiness. “It’s important not patrols. The more good you do, the more to ‘catastrophize’ or generalize a failure and good other people will do,” Redd professes. extend it to other areas of life,” says Dr. Ste Altruism and owning a moral code is ven M. Southwick, a professor of psychiatry another common characteristic of resilient at Yale University School of Medicine who individuals, according to Southwick. Having focuses on post-traumatic stress disorder a purpose is a huge indicator of whether a and resilience. person will rise to the occasion. “You can endure almost anything if you have a mission, or believe what you are doing has meaning.

Make Caring Connections It gives you great strength,” he says.

Social networks are critical in the face of challenges, resilience experts agree. “When

In 2016, Bobbi Huffman lost her high we are wronged or feel unsafe, it’s natural to school sweetheart and husband to suicide withdraw when we should do the opposite,” a few days before Valentine’s Day. As she says Feldman. “It’s also not the number of began to process the tragedy, she saw two friends you have, or even how much time choices ahead: “Drop into a deep depresyou spend with them, that matters. All you sion and give up or focus on our deep love need is at least one person you can count on.” for one another, get into therapy, and make

“We are built to be connected with oth- a difference by inspiring, encouraging and ers. It has a significant impact in regulating helping others,” says Huffman.

She chose the latter, asking for professtress,” says Southwick, a co-author of Resilsional help and signing up for the 16-mile ience: The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges, from West Haven, Connecticut.

Overnight Walk for Suicide Prevention, Over the past two decades, Southwick and in New York City. “Getting into the best his colleagues have studied three groups shape of my life at age 50 became my that have come through harrowing events: passion. As I walked through the night, I being Vietnam War prisoners, Special reflected on our beautiful memories as a

RESILIENCE RESOURCES

Helpful Organizations

OptionB.org provides a supportive space online for survivors of trauma and adversity to share stories, connect with others and get help from experts.

LearningConnection.Stanford.edu/ Resilience-Project normalizes setbacks and failures as part and parcel of professional and personal growth, and provides Stanford University students and faculty a platform to swap stories and coping strategies.

Resilience.Education.UTexas.edu conveys an interactive e-learning platform developed by the University of Texas at Austin to foster a better understanding of resilience and develop related skills.

Films and Books

Charged: The Eduardo Garcia Story documents the journey of chef and outdoorsman Eduardo Garcia, whose life changed irrevocably when he was jolted with 2,400 volts of electricity while hiking in Montana. Garcia lost his hand, ribs and muscle mass, but survived the injury with the help of his former partner, and became an athlete and speaker for the Challenged Athletes Foundation.

Unbroken depicts the life of Olympian and war hero Louis Zamperini, who survived 47 days on a raft after a near-fatal plane crash in World War II, only to be captured by the Japanese Navy and sent to a prisoner-of-war camp. The film is based on the nonfiction book of the same name by Laura Hillenbrand, herself the survivor of a disabling chronic illness.

The 33 tells the true tale of 33 miners trapped inside a mine in San Jose, Chile, for more than two months, the longest such entrapment in history. All were rescued alive.

Wild is based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir of her solo hike of 1,000-plus miles on the Pacific Crest Trail without any training, following the loss of her mother and marriage.

February 2018

13

couple. It was an amazing, healing experience,” reflects Huffman.

Forgiveness—whether for others or ourself—is another key to help us move forward, reports Feldman. “Often, people can get stuck in blame, but resentment keeps people shackled to the past. If and when a person is ready to forgive, widespread research indicates that it can lead to better health outcomes.”

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Experts point out that there isn’t any one perfect formula or single must-have trait for building resilience, and none we can’t develop. Learning a skill like mindfulness is an easy place to start.

“Resilient people don’t try to avoid stress, but learn how to manage and master it,” says Southwick. “Mindfulness meditation requires practice, but through it, you can learn to regulate emotions and relax the nervous system.”

Eckhoff practices mindfulness several times a day with a one-minute gratitude meditation. “I have five things I am most grateful for. I close my eyes, take a deep breath and say them. It brings me focus, reduces stress and reminds me of how lucky I am,” she says.

Morisset suggests making incremental changes to strengthen our resilience muscles.

“Success builds success and failure builds failure, so do something you know you can accomplish and build on that,” she counsels.

Writing can also be a good coping tool, according to Hensch. “Just write about your emotions. It’s amazing how much you can learn about yourself and how calming it can be.”

Good times are the best times to begin “resilience training” notes Hensch.

“I sought out a therapist once I had turned the corner after my divorce and was dating someone and my business was taking off.

It was precisely because I knew something else would likely happen, and I wanted to be better prepared for it,” he recalls.

Applying positive self-talk when something blindsides us helps, as does not expecting to handle things perfectly.

“There’s nothing wrong with just staying afloat when you’re in the middle of trauma or adversity. One key to happiness in life is just managing expectations. It’s okay to be anxious, sad and worried at times—in fact, it’s healthy,” says Hensch.

Hardships are just that: hard. However, with time and experience, resilient individuals come to trust their ability to get through them, large and small. “Resiliency is not about how you bounce back from a single traumatic event; it’s how you respond every day to the challenges that life presents,” Eckhoff has learned. “Repetitive use of this ‘muscle’ builds strength and enables you to do more and sometimes, the impossible.”

Connect with April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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The Dangers of Mercury in Dental Fillings Many consumers are not aware that all silver-colored fillings, or dental amalgams, contain mercury. In fact, amalgam fillings are comprised of approximately 50 percent mercury, according to the World Health Organization and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

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or restricted in many other countries, these fillings are still used in the U.S. Amalgam fillings pose risks to human health, and dental mercury released into the environment can cause long-lasting damage to wildlife. Jack Kall, a Doctor of Dental Medicine and chairperson of the board of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), a global network of dentists, health professionals and scientists that has been researching dental amalgam and other dental products since 1984, explains, “Mercury is continuously emitted from dental amalgam fillings, and it is absorbed and retained in the body, particularly in the brain, kidney, liver, lungs and gastrointestinal tract.”

Unsafe amalgam removal techniques also raise health concerns.

Some patients require the removal of amalgam fillings due to physical deterioration, while others have it done for cosmetic purposes (white-colored fillings match the teeth better) or because they prefer to have dental fillings that don’t contain mercury.

However, removal of amalgam fillings without proper safety measures can potentially lead to patients, dentists, staff and the environment being exposed to unsafe levels of mercury. Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique recommendations to mitigate dental mercury exposure are available at TheSmartChoice.com.

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MEDITATION THAT WORKS

Tips for Finding the Right Practice

M

by April Thompson

ore Americans than ever before are seeking the benefits of meditation, which notably improves mental, physical and spiritual health. Choosing from its many styles and traditions can be daunting for a new meditator, as is figuring out how to incorporate such a practice into a busy life.

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“Meditation is for people of all spiritual backgrounds. As a tool to develop awareness, it can enhance what you already believe and practice,” assures Diana Lang, the Los Angeles author of Opening to Meditation: A Gentle, Guided Approach and a spiritual counselor who has taught meditation for 37 years.

For Jackie Trottmann, a Christian author from St. Louis, Missouri, there is no contradiction between a meditation practice and her faith; rather, they complement one another. For her, “Prayer is like talking to God, whereas meditation is listening to God. Before I came to meditation, I had been doing all the talking.”

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She came to meditation during a trying period working in sales and marketing.

“When a friend gave me a meditation CD, I popped it in after a stressful conference call and felt instantly calmed. Ten years later, meditation has gone beyond quieting the mind; it’s sunk into my heart and spirit,” says Trottmann, who went on to publish her own CDs at GuidedChristianMeditation.com.

“I came to meditation tired of habitual suffering and stress, and wanting to be happier,” says Bill Scheinman, a coach in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), which he refers to as “mindfulness practice without the Buddhist jargon.”

The Oakland, California, instructor has taught mindfulness in settings ranging from corporations to prisons, drawing from a range of meditative disciplines and 23 years of intensive practice.

Begin Modestly “Millions are seeking more mindfulness through meditation, but don’t know how to go about it,” says Sean Fargo, a Berkeley, California, meditation instructor and for-

mer Buddhist monk. “The key is to take baby steps, like going to the gym for the first time. Start by practicing a few minutes a day; just pay attention to something such as the sensations of breathing, without judgment.”

“Having taught meditation to tens of thousands of people, I would say the most common issue is that beginning meditators don’t think they’re doing it right. It’s important not to judge yourself or have loaded expectations about the experience,” notes Lang. She suggests starting wherever we are right now, adding, “Whatever book, class or teacher you first stumble upon is a clue.”

But that doesn’t call for rigidly adhering to a particular type of meditation forever.

Assess Benefits “Shop around and try different things, but at some point, you will begin to discover what works for you,” advises Scheinman.

In trying to decide which meditation practice is right for us, “Go with what feels juicy,” says Fargo, who founded MindfulnessExercises.com, offering 1,500 free mindfulness meditations, worksheets and talks. “You’re more likely to do what feels alive and enlivening.”

The act of meditating can be uncomfortable, but the challenges are part of its power. Scheinman remarks. “If you establish a daily practice, eventually, you will become more clear-headed, kinder and happier. That’s how you know your practice is working—not how you feel during meditation itself.”

Consistency is key. It’s not effective to only meditate when you feel good, he says.

Overview of Options Mindfulness practices go by many names, from vipassana to MBSR, and can be done sitting or walking, but all are focused on cultivating moment-to-moment awareness. “Mindfulness is about being aware: deliberately paying attention to body sensations, thoughts and emotions. Focused attention is on the body, heart and mind,” explains Scheinman.

Guided visualization differs from most forms of meditation in that the meditator is intentionally creating a mental image, typically one of a peaceful, beautiful place. Typically, the goal of a guided visualization is deep relaxation and stress reduction.

Mantra meditations involve continuous repetition of a word, phrase or sound, drawing spiritual power from the sound’s vibration, as well as its meaning. Many mantras are uttered in a tradition’s native language, such as shanti, meaning peace in Sanskrit. Teachers like Lang prefer to use mantras in English that meditators can more easily grasp, such as, “Love is the way.”

Breathing meditation. Meditation experts say our everpresent breath is a sound foundation for a meditation practice, as well as an easy place to start. “Tapping into the power of our breath is vital; it cleanses our system,” says Trottmann.

Connect with April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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heir playful appearance as a beach ball look-alike makes exercise balls welcome props in home workouts, gyms and yoga studios. “They’re a fun training tool for every age, from children to maturing Baby Boomers,” says Dennis Fuchs, CEO of TheraGear, in Sumas, Washington. “Exercise balls are affordable and offer many benefits, from enhanced mobility to reduced risk of injury and increased athletic performance.”

Originally developed by Italian plastic manufacturer Aquilino Cosani in 1963 as a toy called the Gymnastik and then used by British and Swiss physical therapists to help orthopedic patients, the ball has since come a long way to serve fitness needs. Also known as Swiss, stability, balance, physio- and Pilates balls, this colorful piece of equipment can range in size from 14 to 34 inches to be appropriate for a user’s height (Tinyurl.com/RightSizeExerciseBall).

Core Strength Without Strain Stability balls are recommended by fitness trainers and chiropractors for their ability to build core strength and increase flexibility of pelvic muscles without putting unnecessary strain on the back. “The core is a series of muscles used in almost all functional movement; tailored exercises focus both on abdominal and back strength and pelvic and hip stability,” explains Linnea Pond, an exercise instructor at the Pocono Family YMCA, in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

Using an exercise ball also promotes full body conditioning.

“Swiss ball training connects the brain with stabilizer muscles, improving gross motor skills and upper body strength, as well,” Fuchs elaborates. “These versatile training balls help equip an individual to handle the functional demands of sports and everyday life.”

Exercise balls are used in occupational therapy for stroke patients and others recovering from injury. “A stroke deadens part of the brain, and to regain movement in an affected arm or leg, an unaffected part of the brain must take over the lost function. The goal of the therapist is to establish new neural pathways through

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repetition and visual reinforcement. We have patients do simple exercises with the ball hundreds of times so these pathways start to form,” explains Bob Schrupp, a physical therapist and founder of Therapy Network, in Winona, Minnesota.

One goal for physical and occupational therapists is to help clients perform rehabilitation exercises that also motivate them to continue exercising. While the ball is an excellent tool in clinical settings, Schrupp cautions, “After a stroke, or if you’re older or in poor health, it’s always best to check with your doctor or physical therapist to determine if stability ball exercises are appropriate.”

Pregnant Women and Senior Fitness Balance balls, when used properly, can offer a safe way for pregnant women, children and seniors to stay fit. Exercising with a ball can help older individuals increase flexibility, especially in the hips, with cardiac strengthening as a bonus.

Pregnant women can safely increase and maintain abdominal strength as the baby grows, and in doing so, care for muscles that will help them through labor. “Pregnancy can throw a woman off balance, and a growing baby puts pressure on internal organs.

Pressing the back on a stability ball against a wall offers support for squats. Sitting on a ball helps maintain good posture and pelvic mobility, and reduces low back pain,” explains Pond.

Incorporating the ball into yoga or Pilates routines prompts different muscles into action because it calls on the body’s learned ability to sense and respond to movement, termed proprioception.

Pond says, “Proprioception is challenged just from sitting on the ball; there are immediate physical adjustments made to maintain posture and stability. In yoga, the ball is another tool to increase flexibility and balance.”

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Exercise balls are increasingly replacing traditional chairs in classrooms and offices, and teachers are reporting better grades and attention span as a result, while workers appreciate better-toned muscles and enhanced balance. Maintaining good posture by sitting on the ball also increases blood circulation throughout the body, including the brain.

Regarding the equipment’s eyecatching appearance, Schrupp sees a helpful bonus: “The ball is a big, colorful reminder to perform your exercises.”

Marlaina Donato is a freelance writer, author and multimedia artist. Connect at MarlainaDonato.com.

February 2018

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Foods Our Heart Will Love

Top 10 Heart Healthy Choices

by Judith Fertig

H

“

ow do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Elizabeth Barrett Browning once penned this unforgettable line to her husband and fellow poet, Robert Browning.

Let us also count the ways to improve our loved ones’ heart health: Lower blood pressure. Modulate irregular heartbeats.

Avoid plaque build-up in arteries. Improve blood flow to the heart.

We can love our hearts with 10 superfoods that just might make perfect ingredients for a Valentine’s Day meal, starting with dark chocolate.

1

Cocoa powder. Cacao’s flavanols lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke and act as antioxidants to prevent inflammation. Dr. JoAnn E. Manson, a physician, doctor of public health and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School affiliate Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, confirms, “Between 400 and 900 milligrams (mg) a day of cocoa flavanols may favorably affect several mechanisms and pathways related to cardiovascular disease prevention.”

Not all chocolate is created equal.

Manson recommends chocolate with cocoa or cacao as the first ingredient, not sugar. She

20

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and her colleagues are currently conducting the Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study, a large-scale, randomized study of 18,000 U.S. men and women testing the benefits of ingesting 600 mg per day of cocoa flavanols.

2

Raspberries.

Just one-half cup of berries a day can provide plenty of phytonutrients and antioxidants for decreasing inflammation and preventing heart disease, says Wendy Bazilian, a doctor of public health and registered dietitian in San Diego, and author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients.

“Whirl them into a breakfast smoothie, add them to a green salad or combine them with dark chocolate for a tasty, heart-healthy dessert,” she advises.

3

Salmon.

Full of omega-3 fatty acids, wild-caught salmon (about two six-ounce weekly servings) helps reduce systemic inflammation and risk of developing atherosclerosis, hypertension and stroke, according to Dr. Josh Axe, of Nashville, Tennessee. Beyond prevention, omega-3s in oily fish are also

widely known to treat atherosclerosis, normalize heart rhythms and help lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as significantly lower the risk of stroke.

protective HDL cholesterol, and protect the inner lining of arteries.

Pumpkin seeds. High in mag-

8

Avocados. Fresh avocados supply

9

4

nesium—about 764 mg per cup— roasted pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, top the list of heart-healthy nuts and seeds.

Magnesium is an important electrolyte that helps the heart fire on all cylinders and not skip a beat. Improvements in lipid profiles can occur with a daily intake of 365 mg, or about a half-cup, of pepitas. Enjoy roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack or scatter them in a salad, bowl of chili or soup for a delicious crunch.

5

magnesium, plus they’re a good source of potassium, another electrolyte the heart needs for optimum functioning. “You probably know bananas and citrus fruits are top sources of potassium, but I like avocados because they also supply healthy fats,” says Dr. Stephen T. Sinatra, a boardcertified cardiologist with the HeartMD Institute, in Manchester, Connecticut.

6 7

Almonds. Sinatra recommends a handful of almonds a day to raise HDL, a form of “good” cholesterol he likens to a “lipid garbage truck” that picks up oxidized “bad” LDL in the bloodstream and carries it to the liver for processing.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil.

Cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil with a high phenol content can help lower blood pressure (via about two tablespoons daily), make more efficient and

Beet Juice.

A 2015 study in the journal Hypertension found that two daily eight-ounce glasses of beet juice can help reduce high blood pressure. Beets contain a natural dietary nitrate found in previous studies to lower high blood pressure. Enjoy beet juice in smoothies, as a tart drink known as a “shrub” (beet juice with raspberry vinegar) or in soups like borscht.

Garlic. Allicin, the sulfur compound that gives garlic its distinctive aroma, helps keep blood thin and flowing optimally, says Sinatra. The freshest chopped garlic offers the best benefits, according to a study from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine.

10

Pomegranate. Drinking

about one cup of pomegranate juice a day for three months can improve blood flow to the heart, reports a study in the American Journal of Cardiology.

The ultimate reason of all to keep our hearts in good working order was voiced by Helen Keller: “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.”

Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).

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wise words

Mark Rosenfeld’s Secrets for Successful Love Matches

by Alison James

A

ustralian author, speaker and dating coach Mark Rosenfeld knows firsthand the challenges of navigating romantic relationships.

After struggling with shyness, he took on a confidence-boosting job as an exotic dancer in 2011, working with men at both ends of the assertiveness spectrum. In this milieu, he gained a better understanding of men’s thoughts and actions related to women.

Through his career as a dancer while in his own satisfying relationship, Rosenfeld also personally communicated with about 50,000 women, many of which opened up about their own trials and tribulations with dating.

A resident of Brisbane, Rosenfeld launched the website MakeHimYours.com. au in 2014, sharing what he’s learned in order to help women stop experiencing frustrations in dating and start attracting healthy, happy relationships. He’s also participated in the conversation at The Good Men Project on what enlightened masculinity means in the 21st century.

What are the greatest misconceptions women have about men?

Why do both genders need to nurture their feminine energy?

Both genders face significant, yet different, challenges, and so believe the other gender has it easier. Men want to feel cared for and heard. Many are terrified to approach a woman; they fear rejection or not being a good enough provider. Often, when a woman perceives that a man needs space, it’s his fears and insecurities that are keeping him from deeper intimacy.

What mistakes do women make in the courtship phase?

Women often get ahead of themselves in the dating stage, instead of taking enough time to let things unfold. I tell women 22

West Michigan Edition

to slow down and date multiple men to counter that tendency. It’s also good to “widen the funnel” and date different types of men, especially if you seem to attract the so-called “wrong” type. Keep deep emotions and commitments out of the courtship phase, while you discover who someone is and if they are right for you.

As a man, I can spend too much time on my masculine energy and be too logical and focused on end results. I can lose a sense of self, presence and connection with the present moment. Meditation is one entry point; I find practicing a martial art is grounding, as is spending quality time with a woman.

If an individual spends too much time in either energy, imbalance occurs; everyone has to find their own equilibrium.

What are good ways to practice self-care while seeking and sustaining a relationship?

Find activities in your day that make you feel nurtured, happy and good about your-

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self. Take care of your health, home and friendships. Exercise some independence.

Make your life fulfilling, so that men want to be part of your exciting days.

How can we best navigate the world of online dating and other means of meeting potential mates?

It starts with your mindset. If you think you will be on a dating site for three weeks and find a mate, don’t bother. Be prepared to engage for a minimum of six to 12 months.

Consider bad dates as reasons to laugh.

Think of it as “online introducing”. It’s up to you to quickly get past the chat stage to real communication and real dates. Online potential mates don’t have a “vibe” for you like they do in person. I suggest talking with prospects on the phone and keeping first dates short. Keep an open mind to recognize prospects you might otherwise overlook.

Online dating is a supplement, not a substitute, for meeting compatible men or women in real life. You should be tapping networks of friends, family and colleagues to make connections, as well as being open to meeting potential mates at public events.

Which signs indicate that a dating prospect wants to pursue a genuine relationship?

Emotional momentum, combined with consistency, is an important sign. Anyone can put in effort for a little while; but do they periodically disappear? No one wants someone they feel a connection with to physically or emotionally wander away, or risk the object of their affection thinking they aren’t interested. Make sure they are reciprocating the effort you put in.

Prioritizing is another sign; a person will find a way to see someone they care about. A key third sign is integration. They will want to respectfully integrate you into their world more and more, introducing you to friends, family and work colleagues.

Look for this overall pattern to continue over time. It’s vital to let people prove themselves with their actions.

Alison James is a freelance writer in Washington, D.C.

inspiration

SELF-LOVE

by Charlie Chaplin

A

s I began to love myself, I found that anguish and emotional suffering are only warning signs that I was living against my own truth.

Today, I know, this is AUTHENTICITY. As I began to love myself, I understood how much it can offend somebody as I try to force my desires on this person, even though I knew the time was not right and the person was not ready for it, and even though this person was me.

Today I call it RESPECT. As I began to love myself, I stopped craving for a different life, and I could see that everything that surrounded me was inviting me to grow.

Today I call it SIMPLICITY. As I began to love myself, I freed myself of anything that is no good for my health—food, people, things, situations and everything that drew me down and away from myself. At first I called this attitude a healthy egoism.

Today I know it is LOVE OF ONESELF. As I began to love myself, I quit trying to always be right, and ever since, I was wrong less of the time.

Today I discovered that is MODESTY.

As I began to love myself, I refused to go on living in the past and worrying about the future. Now, I only live for the moment, where everything is happening.

Today I live each day, day by day, and I call it FULFILLMENT. As I began to love myself, I recognized that my mind can disturb me and it can make me sick. But as I connected it to my heart, my mind became a valuable ally.

Today I call this connection WISDOM OF THE HEART. We no longer need to fear arguments, confrontations or any kind of problems with ourselves or others. Even stars collide, and out of their crashing new worlds are born.

Today I know that is LIFE. Chaplin’s World museum, in Switzerland, opened in 2016 (ChaplinsWorld.com/en).

Today I call it MATURITY.

Igor Brisker/Shutterstock.com

As I began to love myself, I understood that at any circumstance, I am in the right place at the right time, and everything happens at the exactly right moment.

So I could be calm.

Today I call it SELF-CONFIDENCE. As I began to love myself, I quit stealing my own time, and I stopped designing huge projects for the future.

Today, I only do what brings me joy and happiness, things I love to do and that make my heart cheer, and I do them in my own way and in my own rhythm.

February 2018

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How Teens Can Learn to Love Their Looks

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any young women don’t feel comfortable in their own skin.

A 21st-century global study sponsored by Unilever’s Dove brand found that 90 percent of girls from 15 to 17 years old wanted to change at least one aspect of their physical appearance, especially their body weight. University of Minnesota research following adolescents for 10 years showed that about half of the female participants had dieted in the previous year, twice the number of males.

Tracy Anderson, a mother of two and fitness expert, has spent the last 18 years working with women seeking balance in their bodies. In her recent book, Total Teen: Tracy Anderson’s Guide to Health, Happiness, and Ruling Your World, she observes, “Teens are depleted from comparing themselves to the shapes of others and from scolding themselves: ‘I should be thinner, I should be able to fit in those pants, I should be in better shape.’ But looking good on the outside must start with feeling good on the inside.”

Monitor Thoughts Anderson believes we feel most happy and fulfilled and accomplish the most when our minds are calm, clear and alert.

24

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by Amber Lanier Nagle

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“If young women learn to connect with their mind, identify when their thoughts are anxious or stressed, and practice conscious breathing and meditating to regain a calm, centered state, they’ll be able to rebalance themselves for the rest of their lives,” she says. “By keeping a thought journal for a while and noticing when their thoughts have negative undertones, they can retrain their attitude.”

Live a complaint-free day once each week. Every time a negative thought pops up, expel it and focus on a positive aspect of the idea or experience. Also invest a few moments each day feeling thankful for successful aspects of life. “After a while, these exercises become habitual,” says Anderson. “Happy, high-achieving people fill their minds with positive, uplifting thoughts, affirmations and sincere gratitude. It’s widely proven to work.”

Eat Well

“Most teens can eat junk food all day long and still wake up the next morning ready to take on the world,” Lopolo/Shutterstock.com

~ February Only Special ~

Banishing Body-Image Blues

Anderson says. But such an unhealthy routine “shapes eating patterns for the rest of their lives, eventually catching up with them.”

She strongly believes every young woman should routinely ask herself, “Is this real food?”

“A potato is a real food, or whole food, but instant mashed potatoes are processed. A fresh ear of corn is a whole food; corn chips are processed. If you want to feel strong and healthy and look great, eat whole foods,” says Anderson.

Also, note how the body responds to eating specific foods. Here again, a journal can help. “Jot down how a food made you feel after 15 minutes, an hour and two hours. Are you alert or sluggish? What signals are your stomach and brain sending? It’s useful information to make better ongoing food choices,” Anderson advises.

She also advocates drinking plenty of water and eating organic foods when possible, and warns teens against skipping meals or

snacks when their developing bodies feel the need for fuel.

Move More

For some teens, exercise movements don’t feel comfortable or natural, which hinders them from doing healthful exercise. “I’ve found that if a young woman practices exercises for a while privately, she’ll become more comfortable and confident over time,” says Anderson. “It’s like learning a foreign language, musical instrument or any skill. You master the basics first and build on them. With practice, you start feeling more at ease.”

In her book, Anderson offers many step-by-step, illustrated workout moves designed to daily tone arms, legs and abs, and increase strength and flexibility. Many incorporate fun dance components that work well with music.

“Regular exercise releases endorphins—the hormones that make us feel

happier and better about ourselves,” she says. “For young women navigating the emotional ups and downs associated with menstrual cycles and puberty, exercise can be a lifesaver.” Whether it’s yoga, walking, martial arts, dancing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, climbing, skiing, gymnastics or tennis, teens need to find “some kind of movement and activity to become part of their everyday life.”

A University of Wisconsin metaanalysis of 77 studies examining women’s body images suggests body dissatisfaction is a risk factor for eating disorders and a significant predictor of low self-esteem, depression and obesity. Helping young women build, strengthen or regain their positive body image and self-esteem works to empower a new generation and enables them to enjoy happier, healthier lives.

Amber Lanier Nagle is a freelance writer in Northwest Georgia (AmberNagle.com).

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CITY HOMESTEADING Creating Sustainable Urban Living

by Randy Kambic

H

omesteading is a broad field.

“Along with planting produce, we encourage people to compost, change how they use water, learn about biochar—a long-term soil amendment that returns carbon to the earth—and employ creative economics, including bartering and food-sharing systems,” says K. Ruby Blume, of Grants Pass, Oregon, who founded the Institute of Urban Homesteading, in Oakland, California, a decade ago (iuhOakland.com). She’s also co-author of Urban Homesteading: Heirloom Skills for Sustainable Living.

Blume was recently engaged to invite speakers and coordinate presentation content for the three-day online Gardening and Homesteading Skills Summit hosted by The Shift Network. Last October, 20 leading farmers, master gardeners, homesteaders and other experts shared innovative, environmentally friendly advice for providing food and adopting eco-friendly practices.

Blume, who grows fruit and vegetables and raises chickens, sheep and bees on 22 acres, plans to launch her Fantastic Farm Store this month, and will offer

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spring classes at her institute, as well as at the Rogue River Community Center, in southern Oregon. “Everyone should grow their favorite vegetable from seed; think about the animal if eating meat; and take a nature field study class. These all connect us to nature and our world,” advises Blume.

Food as Medicine David Crow, teacher, author of In Search of the Medicine Buddha and founder of Floracopeia Aromatic Treasures (Floracopeia.com), is a leader in research and development of growing herbs for medicine, working from Grass Valley, California. He extols the importance of gardens of all types—backyards, schools, neighborhoods and public spaces. “They can strengthen communities, beautify life and reduce crime,” he says. In his home state, he helped launch The Learning Garden, at Venice High School, in 2001. “It’s an eye-opener for youngsters, and they take pride in ownership.” People without a garden plot can place a pot inside or on a balcony or find a community garden.

“Medicinal plants don’t have to be a luxury of the wealthy. You can spend a fraction of the $30 for a drug prescription in growing most of them, and then trade for others with neighbors,” says Crow.

He particularly values oregano, thyme, rosemary, lavender and basil.

To increase yields, home gardeners may consider daily drip irrigation—a system of tubes positioned just above the soil, with tiny holes spaced at regular intervals.

It can conveniently work on a timer with an automatic shutoff during rain. Other benefits include water conservation and better soil structure by avoiding puddles from manual watering.

“Drip irrigation can be especially helpful during dry spells, which can run two to four weeks in many climates,” says Robert Kourik (RobertKourik.com), landscape consultant, horticultural researcher and author of Drip Irrigation for Every Landscape and Climate, and last year’s Understanding Roots. “It can be effective for virtually any fruit or vegetable, except water crops like rice and cranberries.”

as well as engineering, data and technology efficiencies, to a project.” Along with green building goals like zero net energy, Rosenbaum strives to create homes that are healthy, comfortable, resource-efficient, durable and adaptable by the people that inhabit them.

Along with being part of the slow food movement and do-it-yourself trends, Blume believes, “Homesteading gives people the feeling they are making a positive

difference by making sustainable changes in their lifestyle and home.”

For summit recordings or transcripts and notices of upcoming events like the online annual Plant Medicine Telesummit in March, visit TheShiftNetwork.com.

Randy Kambic, an Estero, FL, freelance editor and writer, regularly contributes to Natural Awakenings.

Green Living Carol Venolia, author, speaker and architect in Santa Rosa, California, (ComeHome ToNature.com) has designed homes of straw, earth and sustainably sourced and reclaimed wood throughout the West.

She consults on greening schools, healing centers, camps and eco-villages, and stresses the benefits of sunlight as in her new e-book, Get Back to Nature Without Leaving Home. She says, “Sunlight’s many wavelengths, shifting directions and intensities render biological effects that keep us functioning well. Watch how it enters your home; changes occur daily and seasonally.”

It’s easy to move furniture to align with sunshine. In warmer climates, attach plant trellises or fabric awnings outside windows to filter or direct reflected light. “Add a potted plant to a window and a picture of a natural scene on a wall. Take the time to get out into woodlands,” advises Venolia.

She commends Marc Rosenbaum, of South Mountain Company, in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, as a green building leader who “brings a soulful approach, February 2018

27

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Do-Good Dogs Do Almost Anything

Service Animals Train to Help People in Need

S

by Sandra Murphy

ervice dogs help an aging population live full lives in spite of limitations, no matter the size, age or breed of dog.

Plus, hundreds of thousands of canines make living with disabilities both possible and more pleasant.

The Rules “Service dogs don’t eat on duty, and should be on the floor, not put in a handbag or shopping cart,” advises Maggie Sims, project manager for the Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center, in Colorado Springs. “If the dog disrupts business, the person can be asked to remove the animal and then return. Emotionalsupport dogs are not provided for by the disabilities act, because the dog does not perform a specific task.

“We get calls from people concerned about fake service dogs when owners try to bring them into places where pets generally aren’t allowed. Usually, they’re the ones that behave badly,” Sims says. Service animals are not required to wear a special vest or have documentation.

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Educating the Public A motorcycle accident left Matthew Smith dependent on using a wheelchair or crutches. An administrator at Comcast Cable, in Baltimore, Maryland, Smith relies on his pit bull, Jericho, to fetch dropped items, open doors and help him maintain balance.

“Gravity is my specialty,” he jokes. “If I fall, he braces me so I can get up. Moving about stresses my shoulders, so Jericho pulls the wheelchair on days when I’m in pain.”

Although working service dogs should not be petted or approached, Smith tells Jericho, “Go say ‘Hi,’” if someone asks to approach him. “Pit bulls have an undeserved bad reputation, so I’ll take a minute to let people meet him to change that perception. When Jericho is the subject of conversation, it also takes the spotlight off of me,” he says.

Jericho was trained by Apryl Lea, a certified assistance dog trainer for the Animal Farm Foundation’s Assistance Dog Program, in Kingston, New York. She explains, “The pit bulls I train are from shelters, and must be good with people and other

animals and be comfortable in social settings that match the person’s lifestyle.”

Overcoming Obstacles

When someone brings a dog into a place of business, we can legally ask only two short questions: “Is this animal needed for a disability?” and “What tasks has the animal been trained to do in relation to the disability?”

“When a counter is too high, a service dog can pass money to the cashier. Dogs will pull a rope to open a heavy door. In the event of seizures or fainting, our dogs react based on location; at home, they find another family member, but in public, will stay with their person,” Lea says.

The muscles of a patient with Parkinson’s disease may freeze while walking. Dogs brace against a resulting fall or touch the person to help unfreeze the muscles. Tethered to an autistic child, the dog provides distraction from repetitive behaviors like flapping hands or crying, while keeping the child in a safe area. Some dogs are trained to track the child, as well, in case of escape. Likewise, dogs can give Alzheimer’s disease patients a bit of freedom without getting lost.

Sounding Alerts Hearing dogs alert their hearing-impaired person to the sound of a doorbell or ringing phone. In the car, they’ll nudge the driver with a paw if they hear a siren.

Riley the Chihuahua’s job is caring for Jennifer Wise, an aromatherapist and owner of Enchanted Essence, in Toledo, Ohio. Wise has a neurological disease that affects her legs and makes

her prone to falls. “Riley’s trained to bark for help if I am unable to get up,” she explains. “If barking fails, he’ll grab someone’s pant leg or shoelaces and pull in my direction. He’s small, but determined.”

Michelle Renard, a stay-at-home mom in Woodstock, Georgia, relies on Mossy, a goldendoodle trained by Canine Assistants, in nearby Alpharetta, to detect high- and lowblood sugar levels. “She’s never wrong,” says Renard.

Comfort and Joy Linda Blick, president and co-founder of Tails of Hope Foundation, in Orange County, New York, observes, “A veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder may not show outward symptoms, but have anxiety.

Dogs are trained to turn on the lights, lick their person’s face or apply reassuring pressure by lying across their person’s chest to bring them out of night tremors.

“One of our veterans was so uncomfortable in public, it was difficult for him to even speak to the veterinarian about his dog’s torn knee ligament,” Blick explains.

“For the sake of the dog, he managed to discuss care, a big step for him.”

As Sims states, “True service dogs literally give people with disabilities their lives back.”

Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

Service Dog Resources TO CONTACT AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT CENTERS: Ten centers serve the U.S. and calls are directed to the one closest to the caller.

Call 800-949-4232 or visit adata.org.

TO SUPPORT THE TAILS OF HOPE FOUNDATION: This nonprofit provides critical and lifesaving help to veterans, first responders and search-and-rescue teams. Operating on donations, it covers the cost of purchasing a trained dog, as well as lifetime veterinary care when necessary.

TailsOfHope.org LEARN ABOUT DOGS TRAINED FOR SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Parkinson’s disease – Davis Phinney Foundation at Tinyurl.com/HelpingPaw ForParkinsons Disabled children – 4PawsForAbility.org Alzheimer’s disease/dementia – Rover. com/canine-caregivers-dementia-alzheimers Sight-impaired – GuideDogs.org SAMPLE SERVICE-DOG VIDEOS: A pit bull-lab mix that saves a veteran having a seizure: Tinyurl.com/Dog SavesVeteran A pug that helps a veteran with posttraumatic stress: Tinyurl.com/Dog CalmsPTSD

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chiro news

ALZHEIMER’S — PART TWO

by Dr. Dan Gleason

I

n last month’s Natural Awakenings, I introduced Dr. Dale Bredesen’s book The End of Alzheimer’s. This month, I will continue to discuss some specific parts of his protocols. I hope this will stimulate interest and motivate investigation for these important components.

Many neurodegenerative conditions have these same factors in common so I would suggest a similar approach for Parkinson’s, ALS, MS, etc.

Dr. Bredesen emphasizes homocysteine as a marker for inflammation and nutrient deficiency. He recommends running this blood test and using supplemental B6, B12 and folate to bring the homocysteine level below 6.

Insulin Resistance, type 2 diabetes, and pre-diabetes are all on the same spectrum. Some experts are even calling dementia Type 3 Diabetes. Dr. Bredesen recommends exercise, sleep and stress reduction to augment a high fat, moderate protein, low carb diet (HF/MP/LC) to restore insulin sensitivity. This will reduce the associated neuro-inflammation and degeneration.

This diet, along with fasting for 12-16 hours, leads to a state of metabolic ketosis, which results in the brain’s ability to remove the damage and plaques. The book outlines a number of dietary principles that he calls Ketoflex 12/3 to avoid potential inflammatory toxins and to provide the necessary nutrients. His lab test targets for insulin resistance are: • Insulin < 4.5 • Hgb A1c < 5.5 • Fasting glucose < 93

Depending on the results of lab testing the book has specific recommendations for nutritional supplements including probiotics, digestive enzymes, vitamins (B, C, D, E and K), carnitine, CoQ10 with PQQ, resveratrol, and omega 3 fatty acids.

Exercise is an important component of this program. Sleep hygiene is also very important. Dr. Bredesen recommends stress reduction and brain training exercises. Inflammation reduction is key to success. It can be the result of infections, high carb diet, leaky gut, consumption of trans fats or poor oral hygiene.

Toxic exposure can also be a contributing factor. These include: herbicides, pesticides, GMO foods, antibiotics/prescription meds, alcohol, tobacco, food allergies, and chemicals in skin care products.

The book emphasizes the importance of hormone testing and balancing. Testing for heavy metals and eliminating them from the body can also be very important.

In the book, Dr. Bredesen has specific recommendations to guide an individual.

In addition to specific nutrient supplements, he strongly suggests early participation. Don’t wait and hope for things to get better. He suggests that a person adheres to the protocol for at least six months to change diet, sleep and exercise behaviors.

Initiate changes one at a time so to avoid becoming overwhelmed. It’s advised to seek a professional who is familiar with these concepts and tests to see what parts of the constellation of contributing factors are unique to the individual.

Keep retesting to optimize the program. Do as much as possible, realizing that perfection isn’t always attainable.

Document any symptoms to have objective benchmarks for progress or lack there of. Find others using a similar approach, compare notes and network with them.

What we have found at our clinic is that the support system may be the most important part of the entire process. A team that follows their patient’s progress closely and provides encouragement is essential. A knowledgeable, caring spouse or other family member is often the key

to success. The End of Alzheimer’s is a very important book and, along with professional help, can be a vital guide to slow, stop or even reverse the ravages of Alzheimer’s Disease.

In addition to being a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) and an Applied Kinesiologist, Dr. Gleason is a 4th generation home builder and engineer— he correlates the two sensibilities in his approach, “A person’s health is similar to that of building a house- good planning, good science, good materials make for good health as well as a good home”.

For more information go to TheGleasonCenter.com. The Gleason Center is located at 19084 North Fruitport Road in Spring Lake.

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February 2018

31

Inhale. Exhale. Repeat: The Mind-Body Benefits of Conscious Breathing

by Michele DeVoe Lussky

T

“There is no more powerful

hormones like cortisol. ake a big, deep practice to further your breath into the health and well-being than If unregulated, these hormones can negamouth filling conscious breathwork.” tively affect every part the lower belly and then of our system—leading filling the chest. Exhale Andrew Weil, MD. to heart disease, a comfully through the mouth. promised immune system, and neurological Repeat four times. and psychiatric maladies.

Congratulations. That is a beginning

A recent study by Dr. Chris Streeter, exercise to healing and wellness. an associate professor of psychiatry and

Conscious breathing, like what is neurology at Boston University, measured noted above, is a form of meditation now the effect of daily yoga and breathing on proven to have an incredibly positive effect on the entire mental, physical, and spiritual people with diagnoses of major depressive disorder. Twelve weeks after beginhealth. Yogis have used breath control ning the practice, the subjects’ depressive exercises, or pranayama, for centuries to symptoms had dramatically decreased promote mental acuity and overall wellbeing. And, Buddha taught a breathing medi- and their levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a brain chemical that has calming tation as a way to reach enlightenment. and anti-anxiety effects, had increased.

Recent scholarly research indicates Presented in May 2017 at the Internathat the benefits of this age-old practice are tional Congress on Integrative Medicine real and significant. For instance, researchand Health in Las Vegas, this study was ers have found that conscious breathing well-received and prompted large-scale boosts the immune system, enhances studies. “The findings were exciting,” memory, elevates mood, increases energy, she said. “They show that a behavioral and promotes concentration. They also intervention can have effects of similar find that breathing techniques reduce magnitude as an antidepressant.” symptoms of: post-traumatic stress disorConscious breathing plays a role in der, depression, insomnia, high blood pres- sure, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder. yoga and meditation, but there are other practices that focus solely on the power of

“I have seen patients transformed by breath. “Breathing is massively practical,” adopting regular breathing practices,” says says Belisa Vranich, a psychologist and Dr. Brown, an associate clinical professor author of the book, Breathe, published of psychiatry at Columbia University and co-author of The Healing Power of the Breath. in December 2017. “It’s meditation for people who can’t meditate.” Vranich offers According to Dr. Brown, consciously changclasses in New York City titled Corpoing the way you breathe appears to send a rate Breathing, Breathing for Golfers, and signal to the brain to adjust the parasympathetic branch of the nervous system. This can Breathing for Warriors.

West Michigan native, Dawn Andersslow heart rate and digestion while promoten, facilities one especially effective breathing feelings of calm as well as the sympatheting therapy: BreathWork. Andersen states, ic system, which controls the release of stress 32

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

“This breathing technique is so powerfully cleansing and healing, it’s like years of therapy in 25 minutes!” Using music, guided meditation, special essential oils, and very specific breathwork coaching, Andersen, a certified Breathwork Facilitator, says that in 45 minutes you can transform your life.

She explains, “And, you don’t need to speak or think, simply breathe!”

Andersen learned of BreathWork while living in Los Angeles. She says, “I was a workaholic, living with anxiety and depression. I could barely function; I was drinking too much, could barely sleep, and had difficulty even leaving the house—unless it was for work.” And, then she wandered into a BreathWork facility. “It has truly changed my life.

The breathing style utilizes Pranayama rhythmic 3-part breath as a catalyst to gently excavate blocked energy and unprocessed emotions from the body’s nervous system, bypassing the analytical brain to efficiently restore a healthy state of balance, creativity, joy, hope, inspiration and abundance!”

Andersen states that her mind and body are now in balance. After studying with BreathWork Master and Healer, David Elliot, Andersen says, “I couldn’t wait to come back to West Michigan to share this incredible practice. It’s an all-encompassing recharge of body, mind and spirit; it’s a profoundly effective method for letting go of all that hinders your journey.” Now based in Rockford, Michigan, Andersen offers BreathWork coaching and classes at OMG!Yoga. Visit ShamamaGroup.com for more information or email Andersen directly at: BreatheWithDawn@gmail.com.

Michele DeVoe Lussky is a creativity coach, shamanic writing practitioner, college writing instructor, writing consultant, comprehensive sexuality educator, activist, and intuitive based in Rockford, Michigan. She owns and operates Shamama, a group of experts dedicated to helping you tap into your creativity, unleash your power, find your purpose, and express your voice--through special events, workshops, retreats, coaching, and consulting—online and in the Grand Rapids, Rockford, and Grand Traverse areas. See ad page 25.

on Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan

February 2018

33

Medicine for a New Millennium: The EnergyTouch® School of Advanced Healing

By Marlaina Donato

T

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Contact us today to advertise in our next issue 616-604-0480 34

West Michigan Edition

ricia Eldridge, founder of The cal body,” explains Eldridge. “Our practiEnergyTouch® School of Advanced tioners don’t touch the body but work with Healing in Grand Rapids knew the spiritual, emotional and physical bodfrom an early age that she has uncommon ies through the hologram that allows the perception. “Since childhood I’ve known practitioner to view not only the physical that I have a connection to something body to see where an injury or disease may within myself that’s allowed me to see be present but also to view the energetic auras around people, animals and plants. I blueprints, the chakras and the individual had a strong connection with the spiritual organs and systems.” realms, but for many years I tried to push

In a time when energy healing is it away,” says Eldridge who was a directory becoming more mainstream Eldridge’s assistance operator for Michigan Bell beintention is to integrate her work with trafore she found her true calling as a healer ditional medicine for the best possible care. and teacher. The EnergyTouch® School of “Too often energy medicine is looked upon Advanced Healing, described by some as as an alternative practice. I prefer to look at the graduate school of energetic healing, it as a compliment to the treatments that a offers a three-year certification program client may receive from a traditional doctor that addresses physical, emotional and of Western medicine. I would never suggest spiritual connections people might have to that anyone ignore medical advice or counillness. Eldridge’s turning point came when sel from a doctor, but I encourage my clients her unusual extrasensory experiences to share their energy medicine experiences led her to confide in the minister of her with their doctors,” emphasizes Eldridge. church. “He helped convince me that what

There are many kinds of vibraI was experiencing was not a curse but a tional medicine, but the common thread gift from God and that I should use it.” that runs through all of them is the precept

Eldridge was later introduced to the that everything in existence is composed Barbara Brennan School of Healing® and of energy. “The human body is no differas a student she unexpectedly found her ent. For example, a diseased organ vibrates unique path of energy healing. “I was lower than its surrounding organs, and the guided to bring in teachings that were not practitioner and client work together to recovered in the school’s curstore the frequency of that organ. riculum. I developed Dolphin When our energy is depleted or Breath®, and this breath work our vibration is too low, we’re led me to discover additional vulnerable to illness,” expounds chakras and other levels of the Eldridge who emphasizes that human energy field. Energya practitioner can raise the Touch® is a healing modality vibration for a short time but the that works on a cellular level client needs to take an active role using a hologram to access the in maintaining the frequency at energetic as well as the physian optimum level.

Tricia Eldridge

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Many of Eldridge’s clients came to her after they had exhausted conventional methods of healing, and her success quickly spread through word of mouth. Soon, other healers inquired to see what she was doing differently to experience such a high number of improved cases and this eventually led to the birth of The EnergyTouch School in 2004. “It’s said that we never stop learning, and I’ve found that to be especially true with energy medicine. I don’t teach anything that I haven’t had success with in my own professional practice. Our students often comment that the School is as much about personal healing as it is about learning to be a healer. Our philosophy is that you cannot help your client work through blocks that you are unable to work through within yourself,” says Eldridge.

Gary, Eldridge’s partner in business and life, is the creative force behind the School, and his illustrations compliment her teachings and show that art is also a powerful modality. The husband and wife team shares a passion to thrive, evident when Eldridge joyfully adds, “My philosophy is to believe. Believe that all things are possible, and that one person’s kindness can change the world.”

The EnergyTouch® School of Advanced Healing is located at 1331 Lake Drive SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506. For more information, call 616-233-3001 or visit EnergyTouchSchool.com See ad page 15.

Marlaina Donato is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine.

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2018

DIRECTORY Profile Complete our Profile Questions and E-mail them to us by February 10th.

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From offering mercury-free fillings to tackling the most complex dental problems, the team at The Center for Dental Wellness provides an innovative approach to the healthcare of the mouth, integrating the knowledge of natural healing with that of contemporary dental science and technology. The practice’s soothing amenities complement its approach to dentistry. “We practice in a beautiful and spacious office environment designed to be relaxing and tranquil,” notes Dr. Name.

Photo

Wellness services offered: Holistic/Biological Dentistry, Cosmetic/Bio-Esthetic Dentistry, Dental Implants and Restoration, Integrative Orthodontic Care.

Full Color.

Supply print-ready PDF artwork.

For a nominal fee, we can also design it for you!

Areas of specialty: Complex dental problems, advanced TMJ care, Sleep Apnea, safe mercury removal, periodontal wellness.

Philosophy of healing: “Our philosophy is based on the natural laws that govern health and healing,” Dr. says. “When disease is present, it may be viewed as evidence of a disruption in our life force.” The Center for Dental Wellness seeks to bridge the gap between modern dental technology and the ageless traditions of natural healing, he says. “This innovative approach to holistic dental care tends to the health of the mouth in relation to the whole person.”

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February 2018

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Coaching gives you an accountability check for your personal and professional goals.

We assist you in developing a timeline, establishing a plan and keep you motivated in reaching your goals!

4 Small Business Development 4 Major Life Crisis and Change 4 Weight Loss & Fitness 4 Relationships 4 Budget Management & Reorganization 4 Decluttering Your Home and Life

Get started today!

Find us online at LIAConsulting.org/coaching

Call: 616.433.6720 or Email: PamGallina@LIAConsulting.org

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Ethnic Cuisine plus: Super Spices

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for: Community Co-op Gardens Cooking Classes Ethnic Eateries Farmers’ Markets/Food Fairs Garden Supplies Green/Vegan Restaurants Organic Food Stores ... and so much more!

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Climate Health Update Natural Care First plus: Healthy Home

plus: Personalized Medicine

Our Readers are Seeking Providers & Services for:

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Earth-Friendly Landscapers Electric Vehicle Dealers Green Builders Recycling Services Solar Panel Providers and so much more!

Alternative Healing Ayurveda • Chiropractic Integrative Physicians Natural/Organic Foods Yoga and so much more!

Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at:

616-604-0480 • Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com 38

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

The Courage to Renew

by Deirdre (Dee) Kohley, RPh

“Give me the wisdom to know what must be done and the courage to do it.”

T

his quotation is popular on social media and in articles, yet I am not able to find the author. It appears to be attributed to The Serenity Prayer which is an exceptional tool used by many groups and individuals to humbly ask for acceptance, courage and wisdom.

As it pertains to changing a lifetime lifestyle that has been detrimental to one’s health, focusing on courage is paramount to opening the mind to change. The habits, rituals and routines that have developed throughout an individual’s years have allowed one to thrive or spiral downward into seriously chronic health conditions. If it’s the latter, there is hope with education and sustainability with courage.

From the constant bombardment of commercial influence, society has learned to consume sugary, fatty foods and apply toxic topicals. One can change the direction of one’s slide to dis-ease, now that those poor choices have caught up. Picture life where illness is optional.

A life where wellness is achievable, and the first step is having the courage to do something different. The self-help section is easily spotted at bookstores. So are the health, fitness and cooking shelves. New authors and topics abound to show the way to Wellville. But what is the common denominator, and what new information can be gleaned from the latest and greatest New York Times Best Seller? Look for proof in their message and use common sense when adopting a new daily regime.

Change is possible.

If someone has a chronic illness or wants to go from well to vital, inviting health care professionals can help one explore the many options. They can create a plan and grab an advocate and accountability partner to fortify the resolve. Like the Cowardly Lion from the Wizard of Oz, it takes discovering that the courage to decide to learn what to do and stick with it has ev-

erything to do with believing in self first. It’s important to trust the messages from the body as a program is adopted and to hang in there until the plan becomes a new habit.

Bravery to face the naysayers, the well meaning family or friends, who unwittingly sabotage hopes, will come from the education received while formulating the program for success. The stubborn battle with cravings with waning willpower will be won with the toolkit that is built. Learn about eating real food, sustainable healthy forms of protein, while consuming mostly organic plants, nuts and seeds. Discover what will heal the gut and feed the microbiome. Bend the thoughts to support the goals by getting rid of limiting beliefs and roadblocks. Decide to shut down the screens and get restorative sleep. Slowly ramp up the movement and when determination is found by joining that gym.

One may ask,“What do I want my health for?” The answer to this question may vary from wanting to feel strong, to stay in shape, to have the stamina, even to play with grandchildren. Be bold and specific in the reason to follow the path to a healthy lifestyle. Hurdle fears and take action. Let’s no longer be the victim of health circumstances, but the victor in the crusade for strength and vitality.

Deirdre (Dee) Kohley, RPh, is owner of Bluewater Wellness, a graduate of Ferris State University and has lived all her life in Muskegon. Dee continues to find ways to ways to reach women who genuinely want to get well or live an optimal life. She loves digging into research to find new ways to help people. Dee is married and has seven children and eight grandchildren who keep her busy. She loves the beach and spending time outside enjoying the seasons. To contact her online go to BluewaterWellnessTeam. com or call 616-296-2422 or 23-730-5211.

See ad page 18.

Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none. ~William Shakespeare

February 2018

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calendar of events ALL MONTH LONG BVI School of Ayurveda Accepting Applications: Ayurvedic Consultant Certificate Program.

Webinar and On-Site Courses, one weekend a month. State Licensed. NAMA Member. The Sambodh Society, Inc. 6363 N. 24th St., Kalamazoo. Info and Catalog: AyurvedaMichigan.org or 269-381-4946.

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 1 Rainbow Therapy Weekly Class Series for adults: 10am-12pm or 5-7 pm. This nine-week class is designed to give proactive support to those who are struggling with day-to-day pressures of anxiety and depression through a holistic approach. Participants will tap into the seven main energy centers of the body, known as the Chakras, teaching ways of understanding, coping, and developing their emotions throughout troubled times. $275, fee includes all materials needed for each project. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids. Preregister by Jan 25: 616-443-4225.

Mindful Walking and Thought Surfing: 1pm.

Join Holly Tiret from MSU Extension for this session on mindfulness. Practice mindful walking and learn how letting go of control can improve mental and physical happiness. Also learn thought-surfing to gain perspective on negative thoughts, sensations, worries and urges. Free. Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St NE, Grand Rapids. Info: Commreq@grpl.org.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 4 Snowshoe Adventure: 2-3:30pm. Join Lisa VanDonkelaar for a fun adventure. Participants need to bring their own snowshoes. This class is weather permitting. $5. Sheridan Park, 64th Ave (just north of Cleveland), Coopersville. Details and weather updates: EcoTrekFitness.com, cari@ ecotrekfitness.com.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 6 Manifesting Magic: 7pm. Explore ways to tap into abilities to create magic in life! Intuitive and life coach, Erin Jewell Nowak, will guide participants in identifying the changes they wish for—and use simple tools and intention to bring them into being. $15. Thought Design, 10 East Bridge St, Rockford.

Register: ShamamaGroup.com, 231-486-5394.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 11 Eckankar: 10-11am. “Spiritual Freedom” is the theme for the ECK Light and Sound Service, second Sunday each month. Free. Dominican Center at Marywood, Room 4, 2025 E Fulton, Grand Rapids. Info: ECK-MI.org, eck.mi.info@gmail. com, (269) 370-7170.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 12 Reiki Share: 10am-12pm or 6-8pm. Come check out what Reiki is all about, and have a mini session done. Open to those that know Reiki and those that don’t. Donations welcome. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids. Register: 616-443-4225.

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Spiritual Expressions with Nessa: 7pm. Join Certified Poetry Therapist, Nessa McCasey, in a safe, healing poetry therapy session. Poetry therapy doesn’t require that someone write poetry. Rather, Nessa usually brings a poem to encourage discussion and personal expression. There is no judgment or critique of writings. Each participant may choose to share or keep private their writings. $15. Fountain St Church, Room 106, 24 Fountain St NE, Grand Rapids. Info and register: ShamamaGroup.com, 231-486-5394.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 13 Conscious Breathing: 6-8pm. Stress, panic, and anxiety do not have to be the story of anyone’s life.

Anxiety is an energy that can be redirected. The movement releases the attachment to the worry.

Release the struggle by flowing it, breathing into it and making a shift. $25 if registered by February 9th, $30 after. 1991 Lakeshore Dr, Muskegon.

Info: info@bluehorizonswellness.com.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13 Essential Oil Class - Making a Custom Blend: 10am-12pm. Attendees find out what’s needed to know about making a custom blend, discover what Essential Oils would benefit them the most, and then create a custom blend. All material is included in fee. $45. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-443-4225.

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 15

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17 Inspire! Celebrating All Love: 10am-1pm. Inspire! is a monthly community event that creates an opportunity to grow spiritually and ethically while exploring specific areas of concern and highlight ways in which those concerns are being addressed.

This is an opportunity for reflection, healing and growth. Also, be challenged to use health and wholeness by helping to address the needs of the larger community. Free. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: office@extendedgrace.org.

An Introduction to SoulCollage®: 1-4:30pm.

SoulCollage® offers an engaging way to listen to the inner voice, and express creativity. When creating collage cards, aspects of the soul are explored. The workshop features reflection through images; an overview of SoulCollage®; creating collage cards; and more. Supplies and instructions provided. $35.

3493 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. Pre-register: contact Ruth Zwald, ruthzwald55@gmail.com.

CHAKRADANCE™ The Dance of Love!: 11am-12:30pm. This is a 90-minute movement mediation class. We begin the class by dancing the 7 chakras, and then we will spend a significant amount of time working with the heart chakra.

CHAKRADANCE™ is a meditative practice for body and soul. The class combines spontaneous dance, guided imagery, meditation, ancient mandala art and music that resonates with the Chakras. Space is limited to 5 participants. $20. Info and preregister: SacredPathways1@gmail.com, 616-635-8281.

Intro to Shamanic Journey Writing: 7pm.

Writing can open portals between ordinary consciousness and deeper levels of knowing—unleashing innovation, revealing calling, healing old wounds, and discovering the clear and powerful voice. For writers and non-writers alike. Led by creativity coach, writer, and intuitive, Michele DeVoe Lussky. $20. Thought Design, 10 East Bridge St NE, Rockford. Info and register: ShamamaGroup.com, 231-486-5394, MLussky@ ShamamaGroup.com.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16

MONDAY FEBRUARY 19

The Dolphin Breath Teachings: 9am-1pm. A two-step energetic breathing practice beginning with opening your Pranic Tube and grounding to the Earth and Universal Energies. Followed by learning to breath energy with intention through Outer Level Chakras to clear negative energies.

Those wanting to reclaim their rightful space in the universe and take a more active role in their health and happiness are encouraged to attend. $120. 10% discount if you like us on Facebook (Facebook.com/ energytouchschool). 1331 Lake Dr SE #100, Grand Rapids. Info: EnergyTouchSchool.com.

Town Hall Meeting on Sexual Assault: 6:30-9pm.

Extended Grace will host a Town Hall Meeting on sexual assault. A host of panelists will discuss topics such as sexual assault, sexual harassment, from boys to men, assault in the military, workplace behavior, and resources for help. Free. Also, QPR Training (suicide prevention) will be provided free from 5-6pm for up to 25 participants. Preregister for this training by calling 616-334-8894. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: Office@ ExtendedGrace.org.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY FEBRUARY 16-18 EnergyTouch Basics: Fri, The Dolphin Breath Teachings 9am-1pm. Sat-Sun, EnergyTouch Basics 9am-6pm. These three days of intense training fulfills the prerequisite requirements needed to become a successful applicant to the EnergyTouch School of Advanced Healing. Both experienced healers and novices are encouraged to attend. $800. 10% discount if you like us on Facebook (Facebook.com/ energytouchschool). 1331 Lake Dr SE #100, Grand Rapids. Info: EnergyTouchSchool.com.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Ancestral Clearing/Emotional Release Class: 1-4pm. Learn how to identify and release blocks and change energetic thought patterns to live the life of freedom, fulfillment and happiness! Will dive deep to the core of the being, beyond strategies, achieving goals or business planning, etc. Essential oils are also incorporated for most powerful release.

Register by Feb 11. Info: IlkasHealthyHeaven.com, 616-259-7509.

Crystal Chakra Healing Wand Workshop: 6-8pm. Learn more about the energetic system of the body and the main Chakra system. Then explore the different stones that help bring balance to each chakra. Identify which ones balance the most and create a beautiful empowered healing wand made of these stones to take home. Fee includes all materials needed. $50. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-443-4225.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 24 Reiki I & II class: 9am-5pm. Introduction to Reiki, become attuned to the universal energy, learn how to give treatment to self and others and meet the Reiki guide. Register by Feb 17. $250. The fee includes

a $50 deposit due at registration. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-443-4225.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY FEBRUARY 24-25 InspiredLifeGR 2018 Conference: Feb 24-25.

Sat 8:30am–4:30pm. Sun 8:30–2:30pm. Attendees will learn how to cultivate an enriched, healthy and inspired life through nutrition, movement, bodywork, mindfulness, and spirituality from holistic health experts. $160. Register before Dec 31, $130.

Aquinas College, Wege Ballroom 1607 Robinson Rd SE, Grand Rapids. Info: InspiredLifeGR.com.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 25 Meditation Class: 3-3:45pm. Learn helpful meditation techniques from meditation teacher, Sherry Petro-Surdel. This class is accompanied by music and a walking meditation on a labyrinth. $10. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: MiBodhiTree.com Advanced Reiki class: 9-5 pm. Enhance energy work to a new level. Learn how to perform psychic surgery, and how to set up and utilize a crystal grid with energy work. Register by Feb 17. $275. The fee includes a $50 deposit due at registration. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids.

Info: 616-443-4225.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 26 Free Dinner & Movie Night: 6-9pm. Join us for a community-wide dinner and movie! We’ll be ordering some pizza from Marco’s Pizza. Dinner starts at 6pm and movie starts at 7pm. Free. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: Office@ extendedgrace.org.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 27 Natural Solutions: 6-7:15pm. Kathy Monroe is an RN who believes in the power of essential oils to help make lives better. This class focuses on how to make a home toxic-free by using essential oils for cleaning and other household chores.

Learn how doTERRA’s pure essential oils are revolutionizing the way families manage their health. Free. 1991 Lakeshore Dr, Muskegon. Info: info@bluehorizonswellness.com.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 28 Exploration of the Labyrinth: 7pm. Explore the transformative power of the labyrinth with discussion, centering meditation, indoor labyrinth walk, and reflection. Held in the beautiful space along the Rogue River. Led by creativity coach, writer, and intuitive, Michele DeVoe Lussky. $15. Thought Design, 10 East Bridge St NE, Rockford. Info and register: ShamamaGroup.com, 231-486-5394, MLussky@ShamamaGroup.com.

save the date

save the date

Save The Date Events

FRIDAY–SATURDAY, March 23-24

Must be submitted online each month at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Events priced $80 or more require a corresponding display ad. There is a $40 charge per listing, up to 50 words.

Current advertisers, distribution sites or nonprofits, use this listing in place of your two free listings.

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Women’s Wellness Conference - Featuring a two day seminar on Building Hormonal Health through Nutrition taught

by Elaine Newkirk, ND, RN. Event is sponsored by Hollie Schipper, Harmonic Wellness & Reflexology, Julie Bennett of Advanced Thermal Imaging and Ann Sinclair of BiomagEnergy. Location of event is 2565 Forest Hill Ave, Grand Rapids.

Info: Hollie Schipper at 616-822-1914 for information on attending or obtaining a booth at the event.

FRIDAY–SUNDAY, March 9-11

save the date

West Michigan Women’s Expo – Fri and Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Spend the Day! Spend the weekend! Hundreds of exhibits tailored to women and their families.

Bring your friends and family to explore all that the Women’s Expo has to offer…

Health, Beauty, Fitness, Fashion, Finance, and Fun! Open to the Public. Tickets available at the door or online. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids. Info and coupon: KohlerExpo.com

SATURDAY, April 14 Spring Into Health Expo: 9am-2pm.

Come for a fun-filled day with distinguished health and wellness vendors, fashion shows, clothing, food, jewelry, skin care, cleaning, and more. Like us on Facebook. Sign up and receive a bonus prize - facebook.com/ springintohealthexpo/. Lower level of Partners in Dental Care, 2565 Forest Hill Ave SE, Grand Rapids.

save the date

save the date

SATURDAY–SUNDAY, March 10-11

FRIDAY–SUNDAY, June 1-3

Healing Body, Mind & Spirit Expo – 4th Annual Holistic Expo, Kalamazoo Wings Event Center, professional mediums, intuitive’s, healers & more gathered under one roof. Free lectures, speakers & prizes included w/ admission $10 daily, Weekend pass $17, 12 & under free. Visit www. HealingBodyandSpirit.com to view exhibitors.

7th Annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference: Conference speakers include Tieraona Low Dog, M.D., Isla Burgess, Dr. Jody Noé and many more. Come for a gathering of the feminine; a wide spectrum of Internationally acclaimed herbalists and earth-based speakers, plant walks.

Over 60 workshops and plants walks. Plus a kids’ camp and Teen Camp. Includes pre-conference classes, workshops and walks, singing, dancing, meals, swimming, and red tent communal space. Camp Helen Brachman, Almond, WI. Info: MidwestWomensHerbal.com.

The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark. ~Michelangelo February 2018

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on going events NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email NAcalendar@NaturalAwakenings.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or visit swfl. naturalawakeningsmag.com/advertising to submit online.

Sunday

Monday

BreathWork with Dawn: 1-1:45pm. This breathing technique is so powerfully cleansing and healing, it’s like years of therapy in 25 minutes!

Using music, guided meditation, special essential oils, and very specific breathwork coaching, this practice will transform your life! $15 in advance/$18 at door. OMG!Yoga, 251 Northland Dr NE Rockford. Register: ShamamaGroup.com, 616-901-0579.

3rd Monday Support Group: 7-8:30pm. This support group is available for parents, guardians and caregivers of teenagers and pre-teens facilitated by Nicki Kubec, LMSW. Free. Momentum Center, 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: 616-414-9111.

Meditation-Self Realization Fellowship: 1011am. Every Sunday we gather to meditate, chant, & explore the wisdom of the Hindu/Yoga tradition as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda.

Free will offering. Marywood Center 2025 Fulton, Grand Rapids. Info: Fred Stella 616-451-8041, GrandRapids.srf@gmail.com, GRSRF.org Sunday Worship and Youth Services: 10:30am.

A warm and inviting New Thought Spiritual Community, inclusive and accepting of all, honoring diversity, for those seeking spiritual truth. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave. NW, Grand Rapids. Info: UnityGRoffice@gmail.com or 616-453-9909.

Celebration Services: 10:30am. Join us each Sunday for our Sunday Celebration Service.

Unity is a positive, peaceful path for spiritual living. We offer spiritual teachings and programs that empower a life of meaning, purpose, and abundance in all good things. We seek to discover the “universal” spiritual truths that apply to all religions. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE, Ada. Info: office@Unitycsg.org or 616-682-7812.

Hot Yoga: 5-6:15pm. Sweat with this active, energetic, athletic style of yoga with traditional poses in a hot room. Not recommended for people with heart or lung conditions or those not engaged in regular exercise. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info:HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@ HeartsJourneyWellness.com Spirit Space Sunday Worship: 10:30am. An interfaith, non-denominational gathering place for worship and spiritual enrichment. Join for inspiring messages called Reasoning’s. Spirit Space, 3493 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck. Info: 616-836-1555 or Spirit-Space.org Sunday Series: 6pm. Explore spirituality, universal truths, self-mastery and balanced, positive, loving and joyful living with The Coptic Center and their ongoing offering of enlightening ministers, teachers and guest presenters. Love offering.

0-381 Lake Michigan Dr, Grand Rapids. Info: TheCopticCenter.org

A practice of A Course in Miracles: 7-8:30pm.

Learn miracle-mindedness. Got joy? This is how to have it. Hint: You already do. All are welcome.

Free. Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-458-5095.

Spiritual Expressions with Nessa: 2nd and 4th Monday. 7pm. Join certified poetry therapist, Nessa McCasey, in a safe, healing poetry therapy session. Poetry therapy doesn’t require that someone write. Rather, Nessa usually brings a poem to encourage discussion and personal expression.

There’s no judgment or critique of writings. Each participant may choose to share or keep private work. $10. Fountain Street Church, Room 106, 24 Fountain St NE, Grand Rapids. Register: ShamamaGroup.com, 231-486-5394.

Tuesday Faith & Yoga: 4-5:30pm. Yoga is a supportive spiritual practice. This class focuses on both the inward journey and the physical practice. If anyone is new to yoga, experiences tight muscles, would like to be more mobile, be flexible, and build some strength in an easy, non-threatening way, then join this gentle-serenity yoga class.

This class integrates a variety of breathing and mindfulness practices as well. By donation.

937 W Norton Ave, Muskegon. Info: info@ bluehorizonswellness.com.

Chair Yoga: 10:30-11:30am. Chair Yoga uses a chair for greater support and stability within the practice. With an emphasis on the breath, alignment, and moving at one’s own pace. Chair Yoga brings simplicity to the practice and easeful connection with the healing and restorative benefits yoga offers. Taught by Kathy Julien, certified yoga instructor. $10/session. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 Fulton St, East Grand Rapids.

Info: DominicanCenter.com, 616-514-3325.

Lunchtime Yoga: 11:45am-12:30. This class is about relaxation and refreshment to help provide extra energy to get through the day! Lunchtime yoga is a great way to kick start the mind to focus on the future tasks at hand. All Levels welcome and encouraged. $10. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: 616392-7580, mibodhitree.com.

Tibetan Buddhist Meditation/Study Group: 7:15-8:30pm. Explore in a practical way the practices associated with Tibetan Buddhism,

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NaturalWestMichigan.com

including concentration, mindfulness, analysis and visualization. Free. Jewel Heart, 1919 Stearns Ave, Kalamazoo. Info: Call 734-368-8701 or 269-944-1575 or email: GregSupa@gmail.com A Course in Miracles: 6:30-8:30pm. A Course in Miracles is a complete self-study spiritual thought system. It teaches that the way to universal peace is by undoing guilt through forgiving others. The Course focuses on the healing of relationships and making them holy. It expresses a non-sectarian, non-denominational spirituality. Offering. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE Ada. Info: www.Unitycsg.org, zahrt.aj@unitycsg.org, 616-682-7812.

Gentle Hatha Yoga: 7:45-9am & 9:15-10:30am.

With Mitch Coleman. Drop-ins welcome. White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St, Montague.

Info: 231-740-6662 or WhiteRiverYoga.com Beginning Yoga & Meditation: 9:30-10:45am.

This class will introduce you to basic postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness with an emphasis on building body awareness. Gentle yet relaxing in nature, you will leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and having a greater sense of health and well-being. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale.

Info: visit us at HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@HeartsJourneyWellness.com Nourishing the Lakeshore: 7pm. Meetings the second Tuesday of each month. Open to the Public!

Formed to provide education on the health enriching benefits of traditional diets, to increase access to clean, nutrient dense foods, and to teach traditional preparation and storage methods. Nourishing the Lakeshore of West Michigan is a chapter of the Weston A. Price Foundation serving Ottawa, Muskegon, and Oceana counties. The main purpose is to act as a resource for local, clean, nutrient dense food. We also provide informational meetings on health related topics, often those which are politically incorrect.

Nourishing the Lakeshore respects that everyone is at a different point on the path to better eating. Our goal is to educate and enrich the wellness of our community. Location: The Century Club on Western Ave, Muskegon. Info:Meetup.com/Nourishing-theLakeshore-of-West-Michigan-Weston-A-Price 4th Tuesday Support Group: 7-8:30pm. Free support group for family members, caregivers and loved ones of individuals with mental illness.

Free. Momentum Center, 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: 616-414-9111.

The Law of Attraction Speaking Club: 6:30-8pm.

Looking to Charter as a Toastmaster Club. Do you want to become a confident public speaker and strong leader? We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth environment that allows you to achieve your goals at your own pace. Toastmaster Dues. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE, Ada. Info:office@Unitycsg.org, 616-682-7812.

A Course in Miracles: 9:30-11am. A complete self-study spiritual thought system. It teaches that the way to universal peace is by undoing guilt through forgiving others. The Course focuses on the healing of relationships and making them holy. It expresses a non-sectarian, non-denominational spirituality. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE, Ada. Info: Unitycsg. org. 616-682-7812.

$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. Grand Rapids. 616365-9176. IntegrativeNutritionalTherapies.com.

periencing profound rest and relaxation. Taught

by Kathy Julien, certified yoga instructor. $10/ session. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 Fulton St East, Grand Rapids. Info and register: DominicanCenter.com, 616-514-3325.

Wednesday

Gentle Yoga: 5:30 - 6:30pm. This gentle class offers a peaceful session to gradually build strength and range of motion. With this quiet practice, experience how mindful movement and breath work can deliver much needed nurturing, rest, and clarity. Taught by Kathy Julien, certified yoga instructor. $10/session. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 Fulton St East, Grand Rapids. Info and register: DominicanCenter.com, 616-514-3325.

Yoga for Veterans and First Responders (Military, Fire, Police, etc.) and Families: 5:30-7pm.

Enjoy yoga for 50 minutes and then a guided iRest Meditation. These practices help support one’s wellbeing on and off the mat. iRest Meditation has been shown to reduce symptoms associated with PTSD and trauma. The instructors are trained through Warriors at Ease. Donation. 1991 Lakeshore Dr, (In Lakeside shopping district) Muskegon. Info: info@bluehorizonswellness.com.

Ongoing Tai Ji: 9:30-10:30am. Tai Ji, a form of martial art, originates from ancient China. It is practiced throughout the world as an effective exercise for health. Tai Ji consists of fluid, gentle movements that are relaxed and slow in tempo. $15.00 for first class; See instructor for further cost. 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: 616-3927580, mibodhitree.com.

7 Paths to Wholeness Chakra Class: 6:307:45pm. We all have chakras - these invisible energy centers enhance the health of the physical body, intellect and emotions. This class will help participants learn to bring their chakras into balance and live lives full of vitality. Instruction, guided meditation, group discussion and affirmations all provided. $10 recommended love offering per class. Unity, 1711 Walker Ave NW, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-453-9909.

Meditation: 6-7pm. Every Wednesday we meet in our meditation room from 6-7pm. We begin and end meditation time with live, native flute music.

Join us for the full hour or any part of the time. Call 616-836-1555 for more info or visit our meditation page to learn more. 3493 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. Info: Info@Spirit-Space.org.

Thursday Praise Drumming: 6:30pm. Intense cardio to contemporary Christian music offering a full body workout through drumming movements. Open to all levels of fitness. Donation. 2730 56th SW, Wyoming. Info: Ask for Susan, 616-340-9822.

Rainbow Therapy Weekly Class Series for adults: 10am-12pm or 5-7pm. This 9-week class is designed to give proactive support to those struggling with day-to-day pressures of anxiety and depression through a holistic approach. Tap into the seven main energy centers of the body, known as the Chakras, teaching ways of understanding, coping, and developing emotions throughout troubled times. The class fee is $275; the fee includes all materials needed for each project. Pre-register by Jan 25. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr, Grand Rapids. Info: 616-443-4225.

Restorative Yoga: 7-8pm. Calm the mind and nourish the body with Restorative Yoga. Restorative poses are held on a mat and deeply supported with yoga props. The practice seeks to balance the physical, mental, and spiritual while also ex-

Chair Yoga: 4-5pm. Chair Yoga uses a chair for greater support and stability within the practice.

With an emphasis on the breath, alignment, and moving at your own pace, Chair Yoga brings simplicity to the practice and easeful connection with the healing and restorative benefits yoga offers. Taught by Kathy Julien, certified yoga instructor. $10/session. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 Fulton St, East Grand Rapids.

Info: DominicanCenter.com, 616-514-3325.

Emotions Anonymous: 12-1pm. This is a 12-step program for recovery of mental and emotional illness. Free. The Momentum Center, 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: 616-414-9111.

Yoga for Men Series: 7:15-8:15. Jan 11 thru Feb 1. Amy G will guide you through a 4 week series designed just for men. This series will prepare men with the building blocks they’ll need to enter a yoga class with confidence. We’ll focus on the alignment of basic poses used in yoga classes as well as modifications and props that will benefit your practice.

The series is designed to help you understand and grow your practice. We will create a comfortable space to practice, ask questions, and learn. All levels welcome! $60.00. Bodhi Tree, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Pre-registration and pre-payment required at: MiBodhiTree.com or 616-392-7580.

Stand Tall-Posture Training: 9-9:50 pm. This 50-minute movement class is designed to fight accelerated postural changes associated with aging. Led by a doctor of physical therapy, this class effectively and safely addresses issues like back pain or stiffness, Osteoporosis, or a general “hunched over” posture using the latest researchbased techniques. Gain instruction on posture, breathing, progressive stretching and strengthening, and balance training. Feel equipped for at-home practice through expert support and guidance. $15 per class, every 10th class free.

Bodhi Tree Yoga & wellness studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: JessicaRobertsPT.com/events, 616-594-0451.

Friday Cardio Drumming: 5:45pm. Intense cardio to current music offering a full body workout through drumming movements. Multi levels offered for beginners to seasoned fitness fanatics. $6. 5394 Division SE, Kentwood. Info: Ask for Susan, 616-340-9822.

3rd Friday Narcan Training and Distribution: 12-2pm. Red Project offers Free Narcan Training and Distribution for those interested. This event is held the Third Friday of every month from

12:00pm-2:00pm. Free. The Momentum Center, 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: 616414-9111 or Office@ExtendedGrace.org

Saturday Yoga for Beginners: March 2-April 21.

1-2:15pm. Eight-week yoga series designed for new practitioners. $25 drop-in fee or $150 for the series. GR Challenge Center, 940 Monroe, #153, Grand Rapids. Info: AHealingTouchGR. com, 616-340-0543.

1st Saturday QiGong Class: 3-4pm. Instructor Raymond Wan teaches about internal energy, self-healing breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, bring a cushion or pillow to sit on, and to not eat a big meal one hour before class. Donation based. Academy of Alternative Healing Arts, 3790 28th St SW Ste B, Grandville.

Info: AOAHA.com or 616-419-6924.

3rd Saturday Inpire Event: 10am-1pm.

Celebrating All Love. Everyone is invited to this collaborative community event. Brunch/lunch served. Registration not required. Extended Grace, Momentum Center, 714 Columbus, Grand Haven. Info: 616-502-2078 or online ExtendedGrace.org Hot Yoga: 7:30-8:45am. Sweat with this active, energetic, athletic style of yoga with traditional poses in a hot room. Not recommended for people with heart or lung conditions or those not engaged in regular exercise. $12 drop-in. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: HeartsJourneyWellness.com or info@ HeartsJourneyWellness.com Gentle Hatha Yoga: 9:15-10:15am & 11-12:15am.

With Mitch Coleman. Drop-ins welcome. White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St, Montague. 231740-6662. Info: WhiteRiverYoga.com Sweetwater Local Foods Market: 9am-1pm.

A double-up bucks and bridge card market.

Hackley Health at the Lakes building on Harvey St. Located inside during inclement weather.

Muskegon. 231-861-2234.

classifieds VOLUNTEERS Fee for classifieds is $1 per word\per month. To place listing, email content to Publisher@naturalwestmichigan.com.

Deadline is the 15th of the month.

Volunteer Instructors – Mental illness is a community issue and it requires a community solution.

The Momentum Center for Social Engagement offers social and recreational activities for people with mental illness, addictions and disabilities. We are seeking people willing to share their skill, hobby, vocation, or interest with our members once a month or as often as available. We welcome yoga, tai chi, exercise, dance, self-defense, cooking, sewing, and so much more. Extended Grace, 714 Columbus, Grand Haven. Info: Call Jenna, if you want to be part of the solution, at 616-414-9111 or email office@extendedgrace.org

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West Michigan Edition

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community resource guide

EMF RADIATION PROTECTION

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE GRAND WELLNESS

Vikki Nestico, R.Ac. Located at Renewal Skin Spa 6080 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids 616-940-1177 • GrandWellness.net Grand Wellness uses the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine to provide holistic healing and natural pain relief. Call to schedule a free consultation to discuss how acupuncture may be an effective treatment for you.

ASTROLOGY KAREN S. KLEMP MA.

Astrology/Numerology 220 Savidge, Spring Lake 616-916-0121 KlempK@yahoo.com KAREN220.com Over 20 year ’s experience.

Readings available in her office, by skype or by phone. Also available for lectures at solstice gatherings. Make an appointment by phone, on the website or stop in and visit Thurs through Sat 11am–5pm.

BUILDING/CONSTRUCTION WOOD & SAW

Andrew Gielczyk Licensed Builder 616-834-2480 • WoodAndSaw.com Wood & Saw is focused on creating a sustainable high quality of life for our clients.

Building simple, costeffective, energy-efficient, toxic-free homes and remodels that achieve the healthiest possible indoor air quality. See ad, page 14.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Ronda VanderWall 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050 • 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.

THE GLEASON CENTER

Dr. Dan Gleason 19084 North Fruitport Rd, Spring Lake, MI TheGleasonCenter.com 616-846-5410

An alternative, holistic approach combining chiropractic and kinesiology as well as the latest in metabolic and hormone testing.

Using a variety of techniques, we work with our patients to determine the scope and duration of care that’s right for each individual.

COFFEE SHOP / FAIR TRADE JUST GOODS GIFTS AND CAFE’ 714 Columbus, Grand Haven 616-414-9111 justgoods@extendedgrace.org www.extendedgrace.org

Just Goods Gifts and Cafe’ is located within the Momentum Center for Social Engagement.

Fair trade and social cause merchandise. Local baked goods and beverages. Open 9am to 6pm M-F and 10am to 2pm Sat. A creative space for community integration and the end of stigma. See ad, page 47.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY HARMONY ’N HEALTH

Mary De Lange, CCT, LMT 1003 Maryland Ave, N.E., Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 • HarmonyNHealth.net Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment.

Using a holistic approach, colonics relieve constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad, page 29.

COUNSELING INNER PEACE COUNSELING, PLC

Ashley Carter Youngblood, LMSW, LMFT Owner/Therapist 4155 S 9th Street, Suite D, Kalamazoo, MI 269-254-1211 • Kalamazoo-Counseling.com Ashley Carter Youngblood is a licensed therapist who provides a holistic approach to counseling by empowering others to d i s c o v e r h o w o n e ’s i n n e r wisdom can contribute to the healing of the mind, body, spirit, and relationships.

PROTXS EMF SHIELDS & H2O DROPS Clara Vanderzouwen clara.vanderzouwen@gmail.com PROTXS.com/?AFMC=22 616-481-8587

PROTXS contains a proprietary blend of natural products that efficiently reflect, absorb and mitigate the harmful biological and technological impacts of invisible RF/EMF/Wi-Fi radiation. Living Healthy in a Wireless World. “All who touch Protxs will be blessed” Dr. Mike Halliday.

ENERGY HEALING TONYA NICHOLS, RPH

Certified Energy Medicine Practitioner 332 S Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 Info@THCOFLakeview.com THCOFLakeview.com Do you feel like you have no energy? Do you feel disconnected and out of balance? Let Tonya help you find your center again.

Combining Emotional Clearing with Full Spectrum Healing, Tonya helps her clients to remove emotional, mental, and energetic blocks that are keeping her clients stuck and preventing them from reaching their full potential for a healthy, happy, and meaningful life. See ad page 6.

ESSENTIAL OILS BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILS

Clara Vanderzouwen • 616-481-8587 BeYoungth.com/partners/claravz Independent Sharing partner clara.vanderzouwen@gmail.com Be Young Essential Oils are exclusive E.O.B.B.D. guaranteed 100% pure & safe for your entire family and pets! Wondering what to use? Just call or email me, I’m here to educate you!

MOONDROP HERBALS, LLC

Cottage of Natural Elements 351 Cummings, NW Grand Rapids 616-735-1285 • MoondropHerbals.com Your local source for all things natural and botanical.

Essential oils, bulk herbs, tea, hand-crafted bath & body products, raw ingredients, containers, local artwork, unique gifts. Practitioner discounts. Space rental and artisan consignment. See ad, page 20.

February 2018

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YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS Marilyn York Independent Distributor # 489656 877-436-2299 myYL.com/naturalhealth4u

Essential Oils – Revered for thousands of years for their naturally-enhancing support of body, mind, and spirit. Become a Young Living Essential Oils Member/Customer, and/or an Independent Distributor. See ad, page 27.

HAKOMI THERAPY KEN PORTER CST, CHT 3355 Eagle Park Dr. NE Ste. 107, Grand Rapids 616-262-3848 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.

HEALING SERVICES THE REMEDY HOUSE

Jodi Jenks Natural Health Practitioner, Reiki Master 616-443-4225 TheRemedyHouse.org Certified in bodywork, lymphatic drainage, raindrop therapy, CranioSacral, reflexology, iridology, natural health consultations including a zyto bio-communication scan. Emotional clearing with essential oils and energy work, reiki, Energy Touch. See ad, page 35.

HEALTH / WELLNESS CENTER THE HEALING CENTER

332 S Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 Info@THCOFLakeview.com THCOFLakeview.com Naturopathic/Holistic Practitioners and retail health store. Natural health consultations, classes, oils, herbs, homeopathy, hypnosis, foods, candles, crystals, books, CDs, massage, reflexology, emotional clearing, foot detox, DOT/CDL health cards for truck drivers. See ad, page 6.

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West Michigan Edition

VITALITY HEALTHCARE

Dr. Steven Osterhout 5717 Oakland Drive, Portage 269- 323-4473 - DrOchiro.com Vitality Healthcare offers a cutting-edge approach to medicine. We integrate the best medical approaches with the most advanced natural therapies to address the underlying causes of poor health. We offer: Physical and Functional Medicine / Chiropractic and Massage / Metabolic and Hormone Evaluations / Nutrition and Detoxification / Food Sensitivity and GI Issue Testing / Medical and Natural Weight Loss. Our highly-qualified team of doctors, nutritionists and therapists have extensive training to serve all your healthcare needs.

HUMAN RIGHTS/ SOCIAL JUSTICE EXTENDED GRACE

barbara@extendedgrace.org 616.502.2078 • ExtendedGrace.org Extended Grace is a nonprofit grassroots social lab that builds community while solving problems. It does so through: Community Conversations including Inspire! and Deeper Dive events and Town Hall Meetings on Mental Illness; Mudita Gifts; Pilgrim Spirit Tours cultural immersion experiences; Momentum Center for Social Engagement; Just Goods Gifts and Cafe’. See ad, page 47.

LGBTQIA COUNSELING DILSWORTH COUNSELING AND THERAPY SERVICES

Sue Dilsworth, Ph.D, E-RYT 500, C-IAYT Locations in Allendale and Grand Rapids Sue@drdilsworth.hush.com 616-307-1617 • HeartsJourneyWellness.com Counseling services tailored to meet the needs of the individual.

Through various treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness and EMDR, individuals will have an opportunity to explore personal challenges in an open, receptive, and supportive environment. Member WPATH. Most insurance accepted including Medicare and Medicaid.

LIFE COACH LIA COACHING AND CONSULTING

Pamela Gallina, MA CMC PamGallina@LIAConsulting.org 616-433-6720 • LIAConsulting.org/coaching Pam works with highly– motivated individuals as they aim for their highest self.

Focusing on Small Business Development, Major Life Crisis and Change, Weight Loss & Fitness, Relationships, Budget Management & Reorganization, Decluttering Home and Life. Helping you to achieve your very best life! See ad, page 38.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

MASSAGE THERAPY DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY Jaci Timmermans, MT 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050 DynamicChiro.com

Offering Swedish massage with integrated techniques, chosen specifically for your unique body. Relieve those tired and sore muscles and rejuvenate.

Call for on-going monthly specials and discounts.

HARMONY ‘N HEALTH

Mary De Lange, CCT., LMT. 1003 Maryland Ave. NE, Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 HarmonyNHealth.net

Over 24 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 29.

MIDWIFERY FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERY SERVICE, INC.

Patrice Bobier, CPM Hesperia: 231-861-2234 FullCircleMidwifery.com Jennifer Holshoe, CPM Grand Rapids area: 616-318-1825 WestMichiganMidwifery.com In private practice since 1982 – specializing in home birth and a team approach. Over 1,600 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. Free initial consultations including prenatal check-up.

SALON SERVICES LONDON STUDIOS SALON

Sally Ann Loew, Hair Artist/Educator Organic Colour Speciality 6455 28th St. SE, Suite 1, Grand Rapids 616-299-1796, LondonStudiosSalon.com London Studios Specializes in: Organic Color Systems, Color Corrections, Multidimensional Hair Color, Restorations for Vo l u m e a n d L e n g t h , Organic Keragreen Keratin Treatments, European Cutting Techniques, Natural Hair Extensions, I n t e g r a t i o n , B r i d a l S e r v i c e s , We d d i n g Consultations and other services. See ad, page 14.

SCHOOL / EDUCATION BVI SCHOOL OF AYURVEDA Ruth Small, Ph.D., Director 269-381-4946 Ayurveda@SambodhSociety.us AyurvedaMichigan.org

School of Ayurveda. State licensed.

Certificate program for healthcare professionals, doctors, nurses, yoga teachers, wellness educators, massage therapists, holistic health specialists, chiropractors, dieticians and those seeking to learn selfhealth-care. Instructors highly qualified (B.A.M.S.).

NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION 503 East Broadway St, Mt. Pleasant 989-773-1714 Contact@NaturopathicInstitute.info NaturopathicInstitute.info

Educational programs offered: Natural Health Program: four years (one weekend a month); Massage Therapy Program: one year (two weekends a month); Holistic Doula Practitioner Program: six months (one weekend a month).

Individual classes available. See ad, page 35.

SPIRITUAL GATHERINGS UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER Unity of Muskegon 2052 Bourdon St., Muskegon

Gather to nurture your Sacred Self on Sunday’s at 11am. We host a variety of classes and workshops on all areas of holistic living. For more information, visit us online at UnityMuskegon.org or call 231-759-7356.

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANCED THERMAL IMAGING OF WEST MICHIGAN Julie Bennett 616-724-6368 AdvancedThermalImagingllc.com

Social and recreational opportunities for individuals with mental illness, addictions and disabilities.

Call 616.414.9111 for information or to enroll

Home of Just Goods Gifts and Cafe’

Fair trade and social cause merchandise and local baked goods.

The café is a place of social interaction and integration where people of all different backgrounds can sit and enjoy a beverage or baked good, in a safe and nurturing environment.

JustGoods@ExtendedGrace.org

t!

Visi

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Enjo

y!

Monday — Friday: 10 am - 6 pm & Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm

Saturday, February 17 from 10 am to 1 pm Topic: Celebrating ALL Love Everyone is invited to this Collaborative Community Event

Brunch/Lunch Served, Registration Not Required Family Support Group:

fourth Tuesday of every month at 7pm

Support Group for Parents of Teens: third Monday of every month at 7pm Always free, always confidential

May 7-17, 2018 $5999 includes all accommodations,

travel from Grand Rapids, and most Meals. (tips not included) PilgrimSpiritTours.com

Thermography is a safe, tested, painless, and effective procedure providing information for breast cancer risk assessment, breast cancer prevention and early detection, possible hormone imbalance, thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, musculoskeletal inflammation, and neurological problems.

A Non-Profit grassroots social lab that builds community while solving problems.

714 Columbus • Grand Haven • 616-502-2078

located within the Momentum Center for Social Engagement

Barbara@ExtendedGrace.org

facebook.com/extendedgrace • ExtendedGrace.org

February 2018

47

A quiet evolution is afoot, and it’s all about Enough!

“There is no clearer or more hope-filled guide for thriving during these confusing times of breakdown-breakthrough.”

- Linda Sechrist, Senior Staff Writer, Natural Awakenings Magazine

enoughers.org 48

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

bit.ly/enoughtrailer