Natural Awakenings West Michigan ` February 2019

F

E E R

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

Heart of Essential Oils for Pets a Woman How to Use Them Safely

PLANET

Investing for Good

The Right Choices How to Align Money With Values Keep It Strong

February 2019 | West Michigan Edition | NaturalWestMichigan.com February 2019

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Start a New Rewarding

Career in Massage Therapy!

Education is the Key to Success

Clinical Acupressure & TuiNa Massage Programs Small Class Sizes • Extra One-On-One Time Academy of Alternative Healing Art Quiet & Clean Learning Environment

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CLASSES START IN APRIL!

For More Information & To Register, Log-On or Call:

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Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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Contents 14 HEART OF A WOMAN The Right Choices Keep It Strong

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17 A COMMON HEART SONG

Whales Point the Way

20 KEN PAGE

on Making Love Last

22 AMAZING EMBRACE The Healing Power of Hugs

24 RECIPES A

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HEART WILL LOVE

Tasty Ways to Boost Heart Health

27 WARMING UP

FOR WINTER SPORTS Sure-Fire Ways to Get Fit

28 INVESTING FOR GOOD How to Align Money With Values

30 SOOTHING ANXIOUS KIDS

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 616-604-0480 or email Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for ads and News Briefs: the 12th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com or submit online at: NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

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

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 616-604-0480. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

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Natural Remedies Restore Calm

31 ESSENTIAL OILS FOR PETS

How to Use Them Safely

DEPARTMENTS 5 news briefs 6 health briefs 9 film brief 10 global briefs 17 inspiration 17 eco tip 18 chiro news 20 wise words 22 healing ways

24 conscious

eating 27 fit body 28 green living 30 healthy kids 31 natural pet 32 community spotlight 34 calendar 38 resource guide 39 classifieds February 2019

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Feeding a Healthy Heart

I

found this month’s theme of women’s heart health to be especially noteworthy, and the feature article Heart of a Woman to be particularly interesting, considering heart disease is the number one killer of women today. This issue offers many natural ways in which we can ward off heart disease and, in some cases, reverse it.

Likewise, the recipes this month further develop our awareness concerning nutrition and help us determine the foods which actually protect our heart health. The many ways we can stay fit and the smart tips for safely exercising outside are useful to us Michigan folks in beating the winter blues and keeping us moving.

I have seen people in their later years debilitated by their life choices, and so to me, it seems worthwhile to take the extra time to make wise food choices—like staying away from anything processed or containing GMOs while integrating heart healthy foods into our diets. It’s also vital to make daily exercise a priority, while trying our best to keep stress at bay by practicing meditation, yoga and mindfulness techniques.

In life, there are far too many factors—that we have little or no control of— which can affect our health. Therefore, is it not wiser for us to presently choose that which promotes our personal wellbeing before life or chronic illness takes over and removes the choice from our hands? No matter how healthy we are, there are always ways we can improve and better life choices we can make. Let’s start today by noting one or two things that we can do differently which will produce lifelong changes in our overall health! I think we will be pleasantly satisfied with the results and our friends and family will thank us!

EDITORS Rachel Scott McDaniel

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Scott Carvey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ashley Carter Youngblood Marlaina Donato Dan Gleason Deirdre Kohley Barbara Lee VanHorssen Rachel Scott McDaniel

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 Jan Hollingsworth

MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett

ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Cave

© 2019 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

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

Pamela Gallina, Publisher

Magazine of West Michigan

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Pamela Gallina

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

To conscious living,

Natural Awakenings

WEST MICHIGAN EDITION

NaturallyWestMI

NaturallyWestMI

Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan

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

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from publisher

news briefs

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT EXPO

T

he Healing Center of Lakeview is hosting Mind, Body, Spirit Expo from 10a.m. to 4p.m., March 16, at their center in Lakeview. There will be body workers and intuitive/ psychic readers available for appointments all day. Attendees are encouraged to experience the fabulous Spa Package, which includes a 30-minute foot detox, 30-minute infrared sauna session, 30 minute Migun Bed (automatic massage bed) session, and a Zyto Compass Hand Scan all for $50.

Admission is free. Location: 332 S Lincoln, Lakeview. For more information, visit THCofLakeview.com or call 989-352-6500. See ad page 11.

BLUEWATER WELLNESS IS NOW PRIVAMD | WELLNESS

Kalamazoo’s 5th Annual Body, Mind & Spirit Expo

A

ll are welcome to attend the 5th annual Body, Mind and Spirit Expo from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., March 9, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., March 10, in Kalamazoo.

Attendees can visit with professional holistic healers, mediums, intuitives from across the U.S. and Canada. There will be tarot and angel readers, aura photos, stones, crystals, pet communicators, body workers, crystal healers, spirit artists, numerology, aromatherapy, astrologist, palmistry, essential oils, flutes, jewelry, clothing and more.

Keynote Speaker Rev Cindy Spencer, a professional certified medium from Chesterfield, Indiana, is an incredible clairvoyant who connects to loved ones in spirit, leaving many people amazed. She is one of the most sought out mediums from Indiana. Cindy will be offering in her lecture “Messages from Your Loved Ones in Heaven” both days of the expo. She will be offering private readings at the show as well.

Come for a weekend of fun, with intuitive readings, holistic healers, and merchandisers. Free ongoing lectures and speakers both days of the expo.

Cost is $10 at door, $17 for weekend, ages 12 and under free. Location: Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Drive in Kalamazoo. For more information, visit HealingBodyandSpirit.com. See ad page 15.

B

ig news for our community and our Bluewater Family! We are in a time of growth! We’re excited to share that we’re expanding our service offerings and moving to a new location.

With PRIVAMD | WELLNESS, you’ll continue to enjoy the same services and educational sessions as before; and now—with the larger space—we’ll have room for expanded services like: Nutritional IV Therapy, Hair Regeneration, Facial Rejuvenation and MUCH MORE!

And you’ll have the same care team consisting of Dr. Ramona Wallace, D.O., IFMCP, ABFM, ABOFM, Deirdre (Dee) Kohley, RPh + Health Coach and Lindsay Bowen Reiki Practitioner + Supplement Needs Consultant to help you achieve optimum health.

We have exciting February offerings; specifically, a 4-week detox program, a kick start weight loss program, Living Matrix assessment tool, and a Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Sexual Health Wellness Program.

Visit us now at our current location 17214 Van Wagoner Rd. Spring Lake, Michigan. Then in early Spring 2019, we’ll move to our new facility 16986 Robbins Rd Suite 180, in Grand Haven.

For more information, call 616.312.2438. See ad pages 12 & 13.

Self-preservation is the first law of nature. ~Samuel Butler

THE HEALING CENTER OF LAKEVIEW WELCOMES NEW PRACTITIONER

T

he Healing Center of Lakeview welcomes new practitioner Leslie Cornwell.

Cornwell is a certified nurse midwife and will be joining The Healing Center of Lakeview team February 1, 2019. She will be offering an integrated approach to healthcare that includes modern evidence-based medicine combined with Leslie Cornwel alternative therapies that have been used for thousands of years. Her practice is focused toward women from adolescence to menopause.

Location: 332 S Lincoln Ave. in Lakeview. For more information, visit UpliftingWomensWellness.com. See ad page 11.

February 2019

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health briefs

Zinc Combo Fights Aging Diseases When zinc, a trace mineral, is combined with tea, coffee, chocolate and other foods that contain specific antioxidant compounds, it boosts protection against the oxidative stress linked to aging and diseases such as dementia, cancer and heart disease, report researchers from Auburn University, in Alabama, and the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, in Germany.

Zinc activates a plant compound known as hydroquinone, which boosts foods’ antioxidant properties. Hydroquinone alone cannot break down harmful free radicals, but when combined with zinc, a type of enzyme is created that helps prevent damage to organs and tissues.

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West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Harmful bacteria from the genus Mycobacterium have been shown to linger in showerheads and lead to lung infections through inhalation of steam. University of Colorado researchers analyzed 656 biofilms coating the inside of showerheads sent to them by volunteers throughout the U.S. and Europe, and found twice as much mycobacterium in showerheads from households receiving municipal water than in those receiving well water. Chlorine

disinfection methods were suspected by the researchers. Plastic showerheads had levels that were, on average, two times lower than showerheads made of metal or metal and plastic components. “Hot spots” with high levels of mycobacteria—such as Hawaii, southern California, Florida, the upper Midwest and the midAtlantic states—generally overlapped regions where mycobacterium-related lung diseases are most prevalent.

Maxal anatTamor/Shutterstock.com chant/Shutterstock.com

Harmful Bacteria Linked to Certain Showerheads

Immigration to U.S. Lowers Healthy Gut Bacteria People in developing nations have much greater diversity in gut bacteria than Americans, but a University of Minnesota study of U.S. immigrants has found that six to nine months after moving to the U.S. and eating a Western diet, the gut bacteria of those from countries with predominantly non-Western diets changed to match gut bacteria typical of a Western diet, while their gut bacteria became less diverse and less healthy.

These effects increased with the duration of U.S. residence and were compounded across generations. The more “Westernized” a woman’s microbiome, the greater her risk of obesity.

Shamaan/Shutterstock.com

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia), a spiky, cucumbershaped fruit, has traditionally been used in Asian countries to lower blood sugar. Now, researchers at Universiti Sains Malaysia report that it can significantly improve symptoms and reduce the pain of knee osteoarthritis. Half of 75 patients were given a placebo and the other half 1,500 milligrams three times a day of a bitter melon supplement.

After three months, the bitter melon group had significantly fewer symptoms and less knee pain and analgesic use, as well as lowered body weight, body mass index and fasting blood glucose levels.

Dmitry Bruskov/Shutterstock.com

Bitter Melon Eases Knee Pain

Eskymaks/Shutterstock.com TukkataMoji/Shutterstock.com Peter Hermes Furian/Shutterstock.com Eric Isselee/Shutterstock.com

Ashwagandha Normalizes Hypothyroid Levels Ashwagandha, a traditional ayurvedic herb, can significantly improve symptoms of subclinical hypothyroidism, a condition that affects many women, a new double-blind clinical study shows. Researchers from India’s Sudbhawana Hospital tested 50 patients that had high circulating thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. For eight weeks, half were given 600 milligrams a day of ashwagandha; the other half were given a placebo. In the treatment group, TSH levels fell by more than 17 percent, T4 levels increased by nearly 20 percent and T3 levels increased by more than 40 percent. “Ashwagandha treatment effectively normalized the serum thyroid indices during the eight-week treatment period in a significant manner,” the report concluded.

The Power of Thank-You Notes Practicing gratitude is a healthy habit, yet people often hesitate to write heartfelt thank-you notes to people that have touched their lives. Researchers at the University of Chicago and the University of Texas, in Austin, report that writers underestimate how much people receiving those notes are surprised, happy and appreciative.

The researchers also found that the letter writers were unduly concerned about their ability to express their gratitude skillfully. While the writers worried about choosing the right words, the recipients felt happiness simply through the warmth of the gesture.

Walnut Leaves Improve Diabetic Health In a double-blind study of 40 Type-2 diabetes patients, Iranian researchers gave half of them 200 milligrams of an extract of walnut leaf (Juglans regia) for eight weeks and the other half a placebo. Although the walnut leaf extract had no significant effect on their blood glucose levels or insulin resistance, it significantly lowered systolic blood pressure and body weight in the patients.

Sniffing Dogs Can Detect Malaria After years of worldwide decline, malaria is on a worrisome upswing, but researchers from Durham University, in the UK, have found a quick, non-invasive,

low-cost detection method: dogs. Trained to sniff out malaria parasites in socks that West African children wore for one night, the canines correctly identified 70 percent among the infected and 90 percent among the uninfected children.

February 2019

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Extended Grace hosts a variety of support groups each month geared to bettering one’s quality of life. SMART Recovery is aimed toward helping participants gain independence from any addictive behavior, and this group meets Wednesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Extended Grace’s most recent support group is for survivors who have lost loved ones to addiction including, but not limited to suicide, overdose, medical complications, and the meetings are held the first Monday of the month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous is a program for those battling narcotic addiction, and the group meets Sundays from 9 to 10 a.m. The support group for parents of children with developmental disabilities meets the third Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. A support group for parents is geared to promote positive youth development, and the meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. A family support group is aimed at helping family members, caregivers, and loved ones of individuals with mental illness, and the meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Location: All the classes are held at Momentum Center, 714 Columbus Ave. in Grand Haven. See ad page 9.

Children and teens that spend more than seven hours a day on screens have twice the risk of being diagnosed with anxiety or depression compared to those that spend one hour a day similarly engaged, concluded a San Diego State University study of more than 40,000 youngsters.

Nuts Improve Blood Vessel Health Munching on almonds and walnuts significantly increases blood vessel dilation and reduces artery plaque, say West Virginia University scientists. In a two-day study, 27 overweight volunteers ate 77 grams of almonds (about 2.5 handfuls) along with their lunch one day; on another day, they ate 60 grams of walnuts (about two handfuls) with lunch. Measurements taken four hours after each meal found that both diets significantly increased blood vessel dilation and lowered markers of artery plaque. Both types of nuts also reduced heart rate and systolic blood pressure among the volunteers.

Jula Store/Shutterstock.com

Extended Grace Health Brief

Tatyana Vyc/Shutterstock.com

Screen Time Doubles Kids’ Risk of Anxiety and Depression

health briefs

Holy Basil Fights Tooth Infection Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), an Indian herb also known as holy basil, has been proven effective in studies in reducing stress, lowering blood sugar and healing wounds. Now, research from India’s Rishiraj College of Dental Sciences has found that tulsi essential oil, used as a disinfectant, significantly reduced infection levels following root canals of primary molars in a study of 40 children. Although a triple antibiotic cream had better antibiotic properties, Caring about the whole you... the researchers recommended tulsi for H OLI ST I C CA R E A P P ROAC H longstanding infections and to avoid Body, Mind & Spirit! antibiotic reactions and overuse.

Bio-Identical Hormones Thermography IV infusions Functional Medicine

HE A LING BE G INS WITHIN

Meet Our New Medical Director

Dr. Peter Macfield MD

Call 616.361.9221 Today!

3368 Beltline Ct, NE, Grand Rapids • HolisticCareApproach.com 8

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Dr. Macfield’s Specialties...

film brief

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.

t!

Visi

JustGoods@ExtendedGrace.org

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Enjo

y!

Mon—Fri: 10 am - 6 pm | Sat: 10 am - 2pm | Sun: 12 pm - 3 pm

Celebrating ALL Love

Saturday, Feb. 9th from 10 am to 1 pm

Pizza from Marco’s • Registration Not Required

Michael Bloomberg at the special advance screening of Paris to Pittsburgh.

Everyone is invited to this Collaborative Community Event

Changing Landscapes

Wednesdays: 6-7:30 pm SMART Recovery Sundays: 9-10 am Narcotics Anonymous 1st Monday: 6-7:30 pm Loss of a loved one due to addiction 3rd Tuesday: 7-8:30 pm Support for parents of children with disabilities 4th Tuesday: 7-8:30 am Support for family members and caregivers

Climate Change Documentary Seeks Consensus

National Geographic Documentary Films, in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and RadicalMedia, has released the new film Paris to Pittsburgh (free at NatGeoTV. com), a tribute to the impassioned efforts of individuals battling the most severe threats of climate change in their own backyards. Set against the national debate over the United States’ energy future and the Trump administration’s decision to exit the Paris Climate Agreement, the film captures what’s at stake for communities around the country and the inspiring ways Americans are responding.

The film, which premiered in December in 172 countries in 43 languages, is directed and produced by Emmy Award winner Sidney Beaumont and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Michael Bonfiglio.

It features local leaders and everyday citizens telling the stories behind climate-related recovery and resiliency. The documentary illustrates the tireless innovative efforts to reduce carbon emissions, including those in former coal boomtowns such as Pittsburgh, where Mayor Bill Peduto says, “There are now more jobs in renewable energy in the state of Pennsylvania than coal, natural gas and oil combined.”

Support Groups:

A grassroots movement to create a stigma free community.

714 Columbus • Grand Haven • 616-414-9111

located within the Momentum Center for Social Engagement

Office@ExtendedGrace.org

facebook.com/extendedgrace • ExtendedGrace.org

February 2019

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Fish Revival

Insects around the world are in a crisis, and a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that the problem is even more widespread than scientists first believed. In a pristine rain forest in Puerto Rico, the number of invertebrates—including moths, butterflies, spiders and grasshoppers—dropped 60-fold between 1977 and 2013, probably due to a fourdegree rise in average temperature. The lizards, birds and frogs that fed on them also seriously declined. In 2014, an international team of biologists estimated that globally in the past 35 years, the numbers of invertebrates such as beetles and bees had decreased by 45 percent.

Another recent study showed a 76 percent decrease in flying insects in the past few decades in German nature preserves. The food web may be being obliterated from the bottom: Insects pollinate three-quarters of our food crops, feed the birds and fish that are also consumed by larger species and are vital to the decomposition that keeps soil healthy and ecosystems running. “Nature’s resilient, but we’re pushing her to such extremes that eventually it will cause a collapse of the system,” Brad Lister, a co-author of the Puerto Rican study, told the New York Times.

Horse Sense

Wild Horses Ride Out the Storm North Carolina’s freeroaming wild horse herds on the Outer Banks have “ridden out” their share of storms. When Hurricane Florence struck the area in 2018, the Corolla Wild Horse Fund of Currituck County, where the herd lives, announced on Facebook, “The horses have lived on this barrier island for 500 years, and they are well-equipped to deal with

rough weather. They know where to go to stay high and dry, and are probably in better shape right now than most of us humans, who are scrambling with final preparations.” Historians believe the herds, which number about 100 horses, descend from those brought to the New World

by European explorers.

Instincts dating back five centuries compel the

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NaturalWestMichigan.com

West Michigan Edition

Hein Nouwens/Shutterstock.com

Sharp Decline Threatens Ecosystem

Following the removal two years ago of an obsolete dam in Manville, New Jersey, American shad are successfully spawning in the lower section of the Millstone River.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently observed juvenile fish there for the first time since 1845. American shad (Alosa sapidissima) are the largest member of the herring family and are anadromous, as they spend most of their lives in saltwater, but return to freshwater rivers each spring to spawn. They played an important role in American history and economics.

New Jersey Department of Emvironmental Protection Commissioner Catherine McCabe says, “This species has an inherent tendency to recolonize once obstacles are removed from its migratory path.” During the Industrial Revolution, rivers were dammed for electric power and lakes, but during the last decade, dam removal has become a new call to action. Besides preventing fish migrations, dams also harm water quality in rivers by blocking water flow, trapping sediment and changing habitats.

Guy42/Shutterstock.com

Bug Apocalypse

Shad Return After 174-Year Absence

Patricia Camerota/Shutterstock.com

global briefs

feral mustangs to either huddle on high ground, butts to the wind, or seek refuge in the maritime forest during storms, say experts. But news has come of a Shackleford Banks horse named Merlin that was fenced in an inundated quarantine site

during the storm, according to the Foundation for Shackleford Horses.

Merlin somehow survived, and it “may have involved swimming,” says Margaret Poindexter, president of the foundation that co-manages the herd on National Park Service land.

Bat Cave Rescue

Mind Meld

A cold-loving fungus known as white-nose syndrome (Pseudogymnoascus destructans) originating in Eurasia, where bats evolved to develop immunity to it, began infecting 15 species of hibernating bats in North America in 2006. As the fungus grows over bats’ noses and wings, it disrupts their winter sleep, causing them to expend too much energy and burn up fat they need for winter survival. More than 6 million bats have succumbed to the disease so far. Some species are experiencing near total collapse: Little brown bat populations have been decimated by about 90 percent, while tricolored and northern long-eared bats are suffering losses of around 97 percent. Ecologists thought the fungus might halt at the Rockies, but by 2016 it had made its way to Washington State.

A collaboration between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, biologists, ecologists, mycologists, biochemists and other scientists at universities, NGOs and state, federal and tribal agencies have made significant progress in combating the fungus using genomics: Sequencing its genes has allowed them to determine its origin. Plans include treating the caves and mines in which the bats hibernate. It also appears that some species are developing resistance to the fungus or developing coping strategies, like waking up together every night to generate extra group warmth.

Scientists are trying to translate speech-paralyzed patients’ thoughts into speech using brain implants. The technique will potentially provide a brain/computer interface (BCI) to enable people with a spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke or other paralyzing conditions to “talk” again. Experts think a system that decodes whether a person is silently saying yes, no, hungry, pain or water is now within reach, thanks to parallel advances in neuroscience, engineering and machine learning. “We think we’re getting enough of an understanding of the brain signals that encode silent speech that we could soon make something practical,” says Brian Pasley, of the University of California, Berkeley.

The first BCI read electrical signals in the motor cortex corresponding to the intention to move, and used software to translate the signals into instructions to operate a computer cursor or robotic arm. In 2016, scientists at the University of Pittsburgh went a step further, adding sensors to a mind-controlled robotic arm so it produced sensations of touch.

Triff/Shutterstock.com

Art13/Shutterstock.com

Promising Progress Against Disease

• Massage Therapy • Nutrition & Health Evaluation • Homeopathy • Migun Bed • Raindrop Therapy • Reflexology • Infrared Sauna • Acupressure

Translating Thoughts Into Speech

HEALING MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

THE HEALING CENTER

of Lakeview

MONDAY – FRIDAY: 10am to 6pm SATURDAY: 10am to 3pm CLOSED SUNDAY

info@thcoflakeview.com thcoflakeview.com

• Detoxing Foot Soak • Full Spectrum Healings • Emotional Clearing • Craniosacral Therapy

332 S Lincoln Ave Lakeview, MI 48850

989.352.6500

February 2019

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NEW US | NEW YOU!

BLUEWATER WELLNESS IS NOW:

PRIVAMD|WELLNESS

Big news for our community and our Bluewater Family! We are in a time of growth! We’re excited to share that we’re expanding our service offerings and moving to a new location. With PRIVAMD | WELLNESS, you’ll continue to enjoy the same services and educational sessions as before; and now—with the larger space—we’ll have room for expanded services like: Nutritional IV Therapy, Hair Regeneration, Facial Rejuvenation and MUCH MORE! SAME CARE TEAM! MORE AVAILABILITY!

• Dr. Ramona Wallace, DO, IFMCP, ABFM, ABOFM (Integrated Functional Medicine and Family Medicine) • Deirdre (Dee) Kohley, RPh (Member of A4M + Health Coach) will continue to support you in your health and wellness goals so you can achieve optimal health.

• Lindsay Bowen will offer Reiki and be available for scheduling and your supplement needs.

NEW US | NEW YOU: FEBRUARY SPECIALS LIVING MATRIX - A Functional Medicine tool to assess your health

• Purchase the Living Matrix by February 28, 2019 for only $100! (regularly $150). In addition to this detailed diagnostic tool, you’ll receive a consult with Dr. Ramona Wallace, D.O. and Health Coach Dee Kohley, RPh to review your results and create a plan for a healthier you!

• Additionally, purchase the Living Matrix in combination with registration for our Signature Wellness Program by February 28, 2019, you’ll receive a $200 credit toward the 12-week program. Rather than the regular program fee of $4497, you’ll be able to purchase the program for $4297.

4-WEEK DETOX PROGRAM • If you purchase the 4-Week Detox Program by February 28, 2019, your program fee will be reduced by 10%.

Regularly offered at $450; with a January registration the fee is only $405.

• Here’s what you’ll get: (1) Detox package for weight loss and liver health, pH strips, (4) vibe plate sessions, (4) group Detox classes, food sampling and a personal follow-up phone call.

KICK START WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM • If you purchase the Weight Loss Program by February 28, 2019, which includes the ProLon Fasting Mimicking Diet, two coaching sessions and a personalized food plan, you will save $50 off the normal program fee of $449.

Instead it’s a special offer of $399.

• You’ll receive an introduction to Biological Fasting and stem cell-based regeneration by eating a specific plantbased diet developed by Professor Valter Longo. The ProLon Kit contains the food and supplements you will need for 5 days. All you add is your commitment! You’ll also receive two health coaching sessions to teach you how to begin and how to sustain weight loss; and one personalized food plan to take with you to continue until you achieve your goals.

BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY + SEXUAL HEALTH WELLNESS PROGRAM • The BHRT and Sexual Health Wellness Program is a 12-week healthy hormone lifestyle program with (6) bi-weekly, 30-minute coaching sessions. Hormone level testing is an integral component to BHRT and a ZRT saliva test is included. A recommendation for BHRT prescriptions will be sent to your collaborative physician; or if preferred, a direct-to-consumer hormone recommendation will be provided.

• If you purchase the Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Program by February 28, 2019, you will save $100 off your program fee. Regularly priced at $1200; with a February registration, the fee is reduced to $1100.

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FEBRUARY CLASSES: WELCOME TO THE PRIVAMD | WELLNESS SIGNATURE PROGRAM

Tuesday, February 5th, 2019 @ 6:30pm (FREE) This will be a new, yet, pre-recorded session that will air on February 5th at 6:30. This short session is a description of the PrivaMD | Wellness Signature Program which includes an introduction to the STEMS curriculum.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE INTRODUCTION

Tuesday, February 12th, 2019 @ 6:30pm (FREE) In this session, we will discuss What Is Functional Medicine and how this systems-approach is central to chronic disease diagnosis + management. This will be a virtual classroom via webinar. We will provide you with all the information needed to link into the course. There will be a question and answer session!

CHOICE + CHANGE MANAGEMENT

Tuesday, February 19th, 2019 @ 6:30pm (FREE) Setting yourself up for success begins with a change in mindset so that changes in behaviors will follow. In this session, we will discuss best practices in managing new lifestyle choices and the demands these choices may place on your time. This will be a virtual classroom via webinar. We will provide you with all the information needed to link into the course. Sign up by February 15th and receive a free gift.

DIABETES, BLOOD SUGARS + YOU

Saturday, February 23rd, 2019 @ 1:00pm ($25) During this presentation, Dr. Ramona Wallace D.O., will take a deep dive into the cause and management of Type I and II Diabetes, Diabesity, and the difference a Functional Medicine approach can make in your life.

This will be hosted at our current location 17214 Van Wagoner Rd. Spring Lake, Michigan 49456.

WHAT THE HECK CAN YOU EAT?

Tuesday, February 26th, 2019 @ 6:30pm (FREE) In this session we will discuss ways to free yourself from the chronic dis-ease created by eating the SAD— Standard American Diet. Dr. Wallace will reveal the truth about the life changing reality of eating a whole food diet. This will be a virtual classroom via webinar. We will provide you with all the information needed to link into the course.

VISIT US AT OUR CURRENT LOCATION:

VISIT US AT OUR NEW LOCATION (Early Spring):

17212 Van Wagoner Road, Spring Lake, MI 49456

16986 Robbins Rd Suite 180, Grand Haven, MI 49417

231.730.5211

616.312.2438

learn more at: privamd.org February 2019

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Heart of a Woman The Right Choices Keep It Strong

by Lisa Marshall

S

ometime between the salad and the main course at her grandson’s bar mitzvah, Joyce Lenard, then 69, felt a crushing pressure deep within her chest.

A tireless go-getter who had worked in Hillary Clinton’s district office when she was a U.S. senator, raised two daughters and recently donated a kidney to one of them, Lenard had spent months painstakingly planning the 100-guest gala, so when the pain came, she ignored it and got on with the party. She even drove herself to her Long Island home that night. “I just assumed I was having indigestion and it would pass,” Lenard recalls.

Hours later, her husband rushed her to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with a rare, often-fatal form of heart attack, takotsubo cardiomyopathy, in which intense stress literally changes the shape of the heart. Thankful to be alive, she has since taken up meditation, cleaned up her diet and now leads a support group for female heart patients of all ages. Like her, many of them never saw it coming.

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“Women tend to be the caregivers,” says Lenard. “We take care of our husbands, our families, our friends, our careers, and we often forget about our own health. Then look what happens.” Lenard is among the 44 million U.S. women with cardiovascular disease, an insidious illness that until recently has been erroneously framed as a “man’s disease”. In reality, it is the number one killer of women, responsible for one in three deaths each year, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). By comparison, one in 26 women die of breast cancer.

While awareness has risen since 2004, when AHA launched its Go Red for Women campaign, surveys show only 17 percent of women view cardiovascular disease as something that should concern them.

It should, experts say, because 80 to 90 percent of cases are avoidable with lifestyle and dietary changes. In some cases, natural remedies can even reverse it. “We have all this sophisticated equipment and all these medications, but when it comes down

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Know Risks and Address Them Early

In the late 1990s, researchers discovered women were about as likely as men to be diagnosed with the disease, and far more likely to die from it. “They didn’t have the classic signs and symptoms, so they often went undiagnosed and untreated,” explains Jennifer Mieres, M.D., a cardiology professor at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, in New York.

Along with chest pain, women often suffer fatigue, shortness of breath, indigestion, pain in the neck, back or jaw, nausea or anxiety in the months leading up to a heart attack. In more than half of the cases, according to one recent study in the journal Circulation, doctors fail to recognize these symptoms.

Then there is the “not now” factor. “I used to see women all the time who said, ‘I have had these symptoms for months, but I just didn’t have time to take care of it,’” says Mieres, co-author of Heart Smart for Women: Six S.T.E.P.S. in Six Weeks to Heart-Healthy Living.

Recent research has also shown that women are uniquely vulnerable to developing heart disease in ways that men don’t share. Taking birth control pills (especially while smoking) can boost risk. Complications during pregnancy such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes can be hard on the heart, increasing vulnerability for years to come. Because estrogen is believed to be cardio-protective, when it wanes during perimenopause and menopause, risk goes up again.

“As soon as we hit menopause, our biological milieu starts to change,” says Mieres, noting that “good” cholesterol tends to decrease and “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides tend to increase.

Yet, arterial plaque—which can ultimately build up, break loose and cause a heart attack or stroke—starts accumulating as early as age 20, so the earlier women start paying attention, the better.

mimagephotography/Shutterstock.com

~Christina Adams, M.D.

to it, the vast majority of cardiovascular disease can be prevented,” says integrative cardiologist Christina Adams, M.D., of the Scripps Women’s Heart Center, in La Jolla, California.

viphotos/Shutterstock.com

We have all this sophisticated equipment and all these medications, but when it comes down to it, the vast majority of cardiovascular disease can be prevented.

Food Not Meds

Thirty years after the first cholesterol-lowering medication hit the market, so-called statin drugs have become the largest class of medications in the world, with U.S. sales doubling between 2000 and 2010 to reach $20 billion, according to the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. While drugs can be appropriate for those already diagnosed with heart disease and at high risk of heart attack or stroke, they are not without serious side effects. Statins can cause chronic muscle pain, memory loss and increased blood sugar, while hypertension drugs can precipitate fainting and kidney damage.

For many patients, there’s another way, integrative cardiologists say. Unfortunately, most of the talk about prevention focuses on prescription medications, says Stephen Devries, M.D., executive director of the Chicago-based Gaples Institute for Integrative Cardiology. “What often gets lost in the discussion are the dietary changes, which can be equally important.”

Devries recommends a plant-based Mediterranean diet—low in the saturated fat found in beef, processed meats and cheese—and high in leafy greens, whole grains and the “good” fats found in fatty fish, olive oil and avocados. Specific foods have also been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

Nuts, including walnuts, peanuts and almonds, have been shown to lower LDL. One 2017 study of 77,000 female nurses, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, found those that ate peanuts or tree nuts (including almonds and cashews) two or more times per week had a 19 percent lower risk of developing heart disease. Those that ate walnuts once a week cut their risk by 23 percent.

Dark purple and red fruits contain compounds called anthocyanins that boost production of nitric oxide, and in turn expand blood vessels, improving circulation. Another recent study, published in the journal Circulation, followed 94,000 women for 18 years and found those that ate four servings or more per week of blueberries and strawberries were a third less likely to have a heart attack.

Pomegranates are also key for heart health, with recent research published in the journal Clinical Nutrition showing a daily serving of juice can make platelets less sticky, lower blood pressure and reduce plaque formation.

Dark leafy greens like kale and broccoli—which are rich in vitamin K—play an important role in fostering a healthy heart structure, with each serving per week cutting the risk of heart disease by 23 percent, according to the Gaples Institute.

Nurturing the Emotional Heart

No discussion of heart health would be complete without an emphasis on social and emotional health, a critical risk factor which until recently has been largely absent, says Sandeep Jauhar, M.D., director of the Heart Failure Program at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center, and author of the new book, Heart: A History.

But research shows the emotional heart can break, too, as in Lenard’s case. With as many as 90 percent of incidents occurring in women, the condition that landed her in the emergency

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Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com.

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room often shows up in patients with no signs of obstructed blood vessels or high cholesterol. Rather, factors like financial worries, work stress or the death of or break-up with a loved one can flood the heart with stress hormones, changing its shape to one that resembles a Japanese pot called a takotsubo and weakening it profoundly.

“Remarkably, in many cases, once the emotional state returns to normal, so does the heart,” says Jauhar.

Longer-term, emotional stress has been shown to lead to platelet aggregation, or stickiness in the blood, which can impact blood flow. Also, constant bombardment by stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol can damage the inner walls of blood vessels, boosting accumulation of plaque.

To nurture the metaphorical heart, integrative cardiologists recommend taking time to maintain healthy personal relationships and minimize work stress. As well, exercising five to six days per week for at least 30 minutes and practicing activities like mindfulness meditation or yoga have been shown to lower heart rate. A recent study published in the journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes looked at 201 people with coronary heart disease. It found those that practiced meditation were 50 percent less likely to die or have a heart attack or stroke in the span of five years.

Finding quiet spaces to retreat to can also be important. A study published in November by researchers at Massachusetts Join us for a free seminar! We look at the roadblocks that General Hospital, in Boston, found that get in the way of people losing weight naturally and healthy. living and working in chronically noisy From food, stress, environment - what is stopping our bodies environments can boost the risk for heart problems. It is also wise to prioritize sleep from entering that fat burning mode? (at least seven hours per night), because the lack of it can inflame arteries.

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Those are also a matter of life and death.”

eco tips

inspiration

Tips for a Tree-Free Home Many Ways to Pare Down Paper Use jamesteohart/Shutterstock.com

If one in five households switched to electronic bills, statements and payments, the collective impact would save 151 million pounds of paper annually, eliminating 8.6 million full garbage bags and 2 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the PayItGreen Alliance.

While computers continue to offer significant environmental benefits, there are other “tree-mendous” things we can do to conserve forest resources.

A COMMON HEART SONG Whales Point the Way

violetkaipa/Shutterstock.com

J

by Mark Nepo

ust as whales are born with an instinct for the deep, we are born with an impulse toward creating a quality of life. No matter the type of work that leads us there, following that impulse is the destiny of each soul, so we search to find our medium through which aliveness can express itself. Following our instinct for the deep, we find each other.

In areas of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, whales sing basically the same song, and when a new verse is added, they all incorporate it. As humans, we have a greater capacity to communicate, yet we resist adding to our common song.

Whales occupying the same geographical areas that may include large oceans tend to sing similar songs with local variations, but whales from other regions of the world will sing entirely different songs. Once united, though, they find a common pitch. The songs are constantly evolving over time, and old patterns are not repeated.

In essence, whales stay current, freshly updating their communications with each other. It’s a noble task for us all to emulate.

Most whales, especially humpbacks, compose patterns of sound that are strikingly resonant with human musical traditions.

What helps whales be such good communicators is that sound travels about four times faster in water than on land. Thus, it is profoundly easier to hear in the deep. Dwelling there, we have a better chance of staying current and hearing our common song.

When we follow our instinct for the deep, we discover our common song, which brings us alive. Through this unfolding, we make our contribution to the common good. From generation to generation, all that we learn and create adds to this living work of art we call a quality of life.

Adapted excerpt from More Together than Alone, by Mark Nepo.

Connect at MarkNepo.com and ThreeIntentions.com.

n Paper bags can be substituted for plastic bags as trash can liners and serve as compost-ready receptacles for fruit and vegetable scraps. ChasingGreen.org describes many ways to reuse paper bags after cutting them along the seams; use them to wrap gifts and shipping boxes or let the kids paint or draw on them. n Use the blank side of sales receipts, envelopes, shopping lists and other paper scraps to jot down to-do lists, notes and more. The family can keep a small pile that everyone can tap into. n Replace paper napkins and towels with cloth napkins or portions of old T-shirts that can be washed and reused. n Choose paper products that are gentle on the Earth in how they are made. TreeZero Inc. (TreeZero. com) markets, supplies and distributes 100 percent carbonneutral paper made from recycled sugarcane waste fiber. n Consider “branching out” and help protect trees that are being threatened by overharvesting, development and the effects of climate change by supporting the Alliance for Community Trees (ACTrees.org), a national nonprofit that plants trees in communities across the nation.

Get the shovels ready to pitch in when the Arbor Day Foundation (ArborDay.org) celebrates its 148th annual tree-planting events on April 26—especially important this year due to the destruction of many trees from recent hurricanes and fires.

February 2019

17

chiro news

the BIGGER question

By Dr. Dan Gleason, DC

W

hat’s wrong with me? Why am I sick? What disease(s) do I have?

What medications are indicated?

Do I need surgery? Should I see a specialist? These are all valid questions but are there much bigger ones?

When someone goes to the doctor, it’s routine to fill out a history form. First, the patient is asked their contact information, age, gender, marital status, etc. Of course right there near the top, the patient is asked about insurance. Then there’s a section asking one to check “yes” or “no” to a long list of diseases and conditions. It also asks about the patient’s family history, which again focuses on diseases. There is always a section for listing which medications are taken, seldom asking why each one

is prescribed or how long it’s been taken.

Perhaps it will ask about one’s occupation.

Usually, the patient is asked whether they smoke and/or drink.

But, at my last physical with my MD, I noted there were no questions on the form regarding what might be causing me a problem. I was not asked how many hours I slept and whether I felt rested in the morning. There were no questions about any stressors in my life like job change, moving, retirement or divorce. Did I have responsibilities at home for children or aging parents? I was not asked about what I eat, drink, or think. There were not questions about how much or what kind of exercise I get? What did I like or dislike about my job? Was I exposed to toxic

chemicals on the job? How about my bowel movements—how frequent were they, what was there consistency, etc.?

A few years ago I took my 86-yearold father to a urologist, and the form didn’t even ask him how much water, soda or coffee he drank. Yes, a urologist! There the focus was on a slightly elevated PSA, and the need for a prostate biopsy and bladder scope. The questions that were asked seemed to be designed to go from test to diagnosis to procedure to medication or surgery.

I would suggest that the bigger questions would be about lifestyle. These are the things that contribute to health, and, if ignored, could lead to health problems.

It may noted that I’m not using the word “disease”. Disease-focus usually leads directly to treatment, bypassing the bigger questions about cause. One would not use the disease approach to solve any other problem in their life. If someone’s car acted up, they would not diagnose it with engine-itis and prescribe a pill to put in the gas tank to treat it. No, they would check its timing, electrical circuits, fuel pump pressure, alignment, tire pressures, charging system, etc. Then they would deal with the cause of the problem.

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Why do we call high blood pressure Essential Hypertension (Essential means we don’t know what causes it, and aren’t particularly interested in trying to find out) and as a first line of treatment prescribe drugs? This is where questions about sleep, diet, exercise, stress, job, and family might be bigger questions. By asking these kind of questions and looking for the causes, we may be able to reduce or eliminate many cases of over-treatment and over-prescription.

There are those who use a different approach than diagnosis>disease>drugs or surgery. Natural health practitioners like chiropractors, naturopaths, psychologists, acupuncturists and nutritionists are much more likely to ask the bigger questions and suggest interventions that deal with the source of the problem.

They promote health instead of treating disease. They will look for interference in the neural and meridian pathways. They will test and determine what nutrients are lacking or what toxins may be accumulating. They will guide their patients in dealing with their family or job related stressors. They can offer sound suggestions that can improve sleep, exercise, diet, and digestion. These healers, often labeled alternative or hopefully complementary, can help find the causes and help their patients construct an individual plan to live a healthy life.

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”.

Dr. Dan Gleason is the owner of The Gleason Center located at 19084 North Fruitport Road in Spring Lake. For more info: go to TheGleasonCenter.com or call 616-846-5410. See ad page 23.

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wise words

Ken Page on

Making Love Last

by Emily Courtney

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en Page is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist and author of Deeper Dating: How to Drop the Games of Seduction and Discover the Power of Intimacy.

A relationship, intimacy and dating expert, he has led hundreds of workshops on intimacy and spirituality and taught at Columbia University, the Omega Institute and the Garrison Institute. Page also hosts the Deeper Dating Podcast (DeeperDatingPodcast.com).

What are Core Gifts, and what role do they play in the search for lasting love?

In my decades of work as a psychotherapist and coach, I’ve come to realize again and again that the qualities people feel most embarrassed or awkward about—their deepest insecurities—are some of their greatest gifts.

These Core Gifts are like secret parts of ourselves that we often want to hide because we feel so vulnerable around them. But these gifts are where we have the greatest sensitivity and passion; they’re the things we feel and care the most deeply about and the keys to finding someone who really loves us for who we are. When we learn to lead with and cherish our Core Gifts instead of hiding them away, the story of our romantic life completely changes.

But the opposite is true, too. Suppressing our gifts is actually an act of quiet violence against our most authentic self,

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and it always leads us into situations where we end up feeling diminished or hurt. The degree to which we feel ashamed of those vulnerable parts of ourselves is the degree to which we’re going to be attracted to people who are bad for us.

How can we move past our insecurities to discover and honor our Core Gifts?

If you find yourself repeatedly attracted to people who don’t treasure you for who you are, there are Core Gift qualities you haven’t learned to honor. Anywhere you’re insecure, you can ask yourself questions that really change the way you think about yourself. What might be the gift that lies inside this insecurity, and how have I not honored it? Who are the people in my life who have valued my gifts and how did that feel?

You can also discover your Core Gifts by asking yourself what sensitivities keep getting stepped on or neglected—those are qualities you haven’t learned to treasure enough yet.

Why is it important to differentiate between what you call Attractions of Inspiration and Attractions of Deprivation?

This is perhaps the most important distinction you can make in your search for love. Attractions of Deprivation are attractions to people who are only sometimes

available to love and treat you well, but you become deeply invested in trying to get them to love you because you’re unconsciously trying to heal old childhood wounds through the relationship.

But there are also Attractions of Inspiration; these are people who inspire you by who they are in the world and how they treat you and others. When you start really learning how to honor and lead with your Core Gifts, your attractions change. You’ll start becoming attracted to available people who love you for who you are.

Deciding to say no to Attractions of Deprivation to only pursue Attractions of Inspiration is quite simply the most important decision you’ll ever make in your search for healthy love.

What is the Wave of Distancing, and how can it sabotage relationships?

The Wave of Distancing is the single greatest saboteur of healthy love that I know of.

If you haven’t yet learned to honor your

Core Gifts, you’ll want to flee when you meet Attractions of Inspiration who are available and kind. You may begin noticing qualities about them that irritate you and find yourself wanting to leave—this is what I call the Wave.

The Wave is fear, because something deep inside you knows that this person could be special, and to open yourself up to and possibly be hurt by a kind person is a very scary thing. So your psyche unconsciously protects you by making you want to flee, and if you don’t understand this, then you may leave what could be a wonderful relationship.

If you do understand it, you’ll come to realize that like a wave, it hits hard, but then passes. If you can stick around long enough and just keep enjoying that person throughout the Wave, those feelings will disappear and the attraction will return.

Emily Courtney is a freelance health and wellness writer and editor living in northern Colorado. Connect at EmilyCourtneyWrites@gmail.com.

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healing ways

AMAZING EMBRACE The Healing Power of Hugs

by April Thompson

H

These behaviors ugs don’t just feel A Primal Need good; they do also turn down our for Connection good. A simple biological response Mata Amritanandamayi, embrace can boost our to stress and may a 65-year-old Indian spirihealth and mood, connect tual leader better known even improve us spiritually and even help as Amma, has hugged mend society. how our immune tens of millions of people

Hugs and other types system works. around the world, earning of affectionate touching her the nickname, “the ~Michael Murphy, can provide numerous hugging saint.” benefits in the face of researcher Amma’s tradition of threats or stress, according hugging people grew organically, from hugto Michael Murphy, Ph.D., a researcher ging someone she noticed in distress, to how with the Laboratory for the Study of she receives massive crowds clamoring for Stress, Immunity and Disease at Carnegie one of her loving, compassionate embraces.

Mellon University, in Pittsburgh. “The

“A hug is a gesture that reveals the research shows that touch behaviors like spiritual truth that, ‘We are not two—we are hugs reduce negative responses to threats one,’” says Swami Amritaswarupananda, one and make people feel happier, more secure of Amma’s senior disciples. “In today’s world, and more supported.” where people often feel alienated and lonely,

In a study of 404 adults, Carnegie a hug can uplift and make us feel reconMellon researchers looked at how social support and hugs affected participants’ sus- nected to the people and world around us.”

Intention is key to the exchange of ceptibility to the common cold after being energy that occurs with a hug, says Amriexposed to the virus. “People experiencing taswarupananda. “What is important is the lots of conflict are more likely to get a cold sincerity behind the action—the genuine when exposed to a virus,” says Murphy. feeling of love and compassion. A simple “But individuals who also tend to receive glance or mere touch of the hand can have lots of hugs appear protected from this adthat same power to make us feel whole if ditional risk.”

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that genuine, heartfelt connection is there.”

Hugs tap into that fundamental human need to belong, says Murphy. “Hugs and other forms of affectionate touch act as powerful reminders that we belong. “These behaviors also turn down our biological response to stress and may even improve how our immune system works.” For example, researchers think that touching might trigger our body to release oxytocin, a hormone that can reduce fear and improve social bonding, Murphy notes. Hugs and the associated oxytocin release can have powerful ripple effects in the body, decreasing heart rate and levels of stress hormones cortisol and norepinephrine, along with improving immune function and pain tolerance. Oxytocin can also trigger the release of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine.

Bridging Divides With a Hug While Murphy cautions that the jury is out on the effects of hugs on strangers, as most research has been done on embraces between loved ones, Ken Nwadike, Jr. has built a national campaign around the

concept. Known as the “free hugs guy”, the former competitive runner began offering up hugs during the 2014 Boston Marathon, the year after the deadly bombing.

Nwadike has since brought the Free Hugs Project to more divisive spaces, from political rallies to protests, offering hugs to all to spread love and inspire change.

The Los Angeles activist’s all-embracing hugs are a symbol of unconditional love, respect and unity at a time when tensions and political divisions are running high. For Nwadike, hugs are a way of de-escalating conflict and mending the human divide.

“Communities are divided because of fear, hatred and misunderstanding. Starting the conversation with kindness, rather than hatred, will get us a lot further,” he says.

Consent is always important, and not everyone appreciates an unsolicited hug. But like compliments, hugs are free to give and usually well received. As humans, we bear arms that were built not to harm, but to heal.

Stop worrying about what you have to lose and start focusing on what you have to gain. ~Unknown

Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.

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RECIPES A HEART WILL LOVE

Tasty Ways to Boost Heart Health

A

by Avery Mack

s a special meal for Valentine’s Day or any other, many plant-based dishes are so tasty that no one will miss the meat. Low in fat and sugar and high in ingredients that promote heart health, the following recipes are courtesy of Carol D’Anca, a board-certified nutrition practitioner and author of Real Food for Healthy People: A Recipe & Resource Guide, in Highland Park, Illinois.

Start With Soup

Rich in dietary fiber and low in fat, butternut squash with low-salt vegetable broth and spices is an easy-to-make soup loaded with nutrients and flavor. Allow 40 to 45 minutes to roast the squash.

Butternut Squash Soup Yields: Four servings 1 butternut squash, 2-3 lbs, peeled and cut in cubes to equal 4 cups

3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth Dash red pepper flakes Freshly ground black pepper Pepitas or pumpkin seeds for garnish Preheat oven to 425° F. Line a heavy baking pan with parchment paper. Spread squash cubes in a single layer, using two lined pans if needed. Roast for about 40 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Alternate method: Wash the squash. Make several slits to allow for escaping steam.

Roast whole in the oven for about 45 minutes or until soft and easy to peel and cut.

Transfer the roasted squash to a food processor or heavy-duty blender. Add remaining ingredients and process until smooth. Add additional broth to reach desired consistency.

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, fair trade, non-genetically modified ingredients, BPA-free canned goods and non-bromated flour whenever possible.

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Divide into four bowls. For texture and crunch, garnish with roasted pepita or pumpkin seeds.

Hearty Bread

This whole-grain, gluten-free, no-knead, no-mess bread contains flax, sunflower and chia seeds, hazelnuts, oats, coconut oil and maple syrup as a sweetener. Accompanying soup, it makes for a satisfying meal.

This recipe is adapted from “Change Your Life Bread” in D’Anca’s book My New Roots.

Let it sit on the counter for at least two hours, or all day or overnight. When the dough retains its shape, even when you pull the sides of the loaf pan or lift the parchment, it’s ready to bake.

Preheat oven to 350° F. Place loaf pan in the oven on the middle rack and bake for 20 minutes. Remove bread from loaf pan, place it upside down directly on the rack and bake for another 30 to 40 minutes.

Bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped. Let cool completely before slicing.

Store bread in a tightly sealed container for up to five days. Freezes well. For a quick and easy toast, slice before freezing.

The Pleasures of Pasta

Change Your Life Bread

photo by Stephen Blancett

Yields: One loaf 2 cups shelled raw sunflower seeds 1 cup whole flax seeds 1 cup blanched hazelnuts 3 cups rolled oats (use certified gluten-free oats, if needed) 4 Tbsp chia seeds 6 Tbsp psyllium husks Pinch fresh ground coarse salt, preferably Himalayan 2 Tbsp maple syrup 6 Tbsp coconut oil, liquefied at low temperature in a small pan 3 cups water In a loaf pan lined with parchment, combine all dry ingredients, stirring well.

Whisk maple syrup and water together in a measuring cup.

Add to the dry ingredients and mix until everything is soaked and dough becomes thick. If it’s too thick to stir, add one or two teaspoons of water until it’s manageable.

Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.

Pasta is guilt-free when we use a whole wheat variety that digests more slowly than white flour pasta, avoiding blood sugar spikes, D’Anca says. Gluten-free, grainfree or vegetable pasta can be substituted for whole grain pasta. Fresh asparagus is recommended. If it’s not in season, consider red chard for its bright red and green colors and abundance of vitamins K, A and C. It’s a good source of magnesium, potassium, iron and dietary fiber.

Use red, orange, yellow or a mix of colors 1½ Tbsp fresh thyme leaves 1 lb fresh asparagus, pencil thin is best (if not available, substitute red chard) ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives ½ cup fresh basil ¼ cup white wine or white wine vinegar Squeeze garlic from its skins into a large skillet. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is reduced and thickened to a sauce (coulis), about 20 to 30 minutes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente.

Drain the pasta well and place back in the pan. Add tomato coulis and olives. Toss well to infuse flavors. Let warm for 2 to 3 minutes.

Serve at once.

Savory Side Dish

Chickpeas are a great source of fiber. Bell peppers, also known as sweet peppers, are available in white, orange, green and purple. Lycopene gives red tomatoes their color, may reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Yellow tomatoes have twice as much iron and zinc and higher levels of vitamin B and folate to help red blood cells. Darker tomatoes ranging from purple to black produce higher levels of antioxidants for a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Don’t overlook green tomatoes, which are higher in vitamin K and calcium than reds or yellows.

Roasted Chickpeas with Grilled Vegetables Yields: Serves two, or four if dished over quinoa

Whole Grain Pasta with Asparagus and Tomato Coulis Yields: 6 servings for dinner or 8 as a smaller first course.

1 lb of your favorite whole grain pasta 3 large cloves garlic, roasted for about 25 minutes in their skins 3 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

12 small mushrooms, sliced 2 ripe tomatoes, quartered 1 red bell pepper, cut in strips 1 yellow pepper, cut in strips 1 red onion, cut into wedges, or 1½ cups leeks, halved lengthwise, cleaned, and cut chiffonade-style About 6 cloves of garlic, peeled 2, 14-oz cans of chickpeas, rinsed and drained 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary Balsamic or white wine vinegar February 2019

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Almond Butter and Raw Cacao Chocolate Truffles Yields: 12 servings

Remove the pan and turn the vegetables over. Add the chickpeas and rosemary and return to the oven. Roast for another 30 to 45 minutes until the edges of the vegetables start to turn dark and the chickpeas are browning.

1 cup almond meal ½ cup almond butter ¼ cup raw cacao, organic 3 Tbsp grade B maple syrup 1 tsp organic vanilla ¼ cup raw almonds, ground ¼ cup raw cacao nibs, ground Finely ground nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, shredded coconut or raw cacao for texture and added flavor

Sprinkle with balsamic vinegar, toss and serve warm as is or over quinoa.

Make a flax “egg” by mixing the ground flax seeds with the water. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens to an egg consistency.

Place the bell pepper, onion and garlic in a food processor and process until smooth.

Remove the mixture and drain in a fine sieve. Too much liquid will make the burgers fall apart.

Burgers for Lunch

These burgers are good either oven baked or grilled, weather permitting. Offer toppings like baby spinach, salsa, nut cheese, pesto, fig jam, mango or slaw. Apple cider vinegar, dill, celery salt and agave nectar to taste makes a dressing for slaw. Thin slices of Granny Smith or Honey Crisp apples add a tang of tart or hint of sweetness.

Black Bean/Veggie Burger 1 16-oz can of black beans, drained, rinsed well and dried on a paper towel ½ red bell pepper, cut in large pieces 1 medium-size onion, cut in large pieces 1 Tbsp chili powder, mild or hot to taste 3 cloves of garlic, rough chopped 1 tsp black cumin 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds 3 Tbsp water Approximately 1 cup bread crumbs (glutenfree if needed) to act as a binder 4 buns or bread of choice 26

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Place black beans in the food processor and pulse to a thick, sticky consistency.

Add the drained red pepper mixture, flax “egg”, cumin and chili spice. Process until lightly mixed.

Remove the burger mixture to a bowl.

Add bread crumbs until you have a firm burger and form into patties.

Grill for 5 to 10 minutes, turning once, or bake in a 350° F oven on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 5 to 10 minutes on each side.

Guilt-Free Chocolate Dessert

“Chocolate desserts usually include loads of sugar and butter, making them a highly processed and saturated-fat food,” says D’Anca. “These treats deliver the good fat of cacao nibs and the antioxidants of raw cacao.”

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Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix them to a smooth batter. Chill the batter for about 20 minutes.

Roll into either bite-sized or larger balls to serve as is or roll in nuts, coconut or cacao for texture and added taste.

For more recipes and information about nutrition and heart health provided by D’Anca, visit FoodNotMeds.com.

Avery Mack is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect via AveryMack@ mindspring.com.

AS Food studio/Shutterstock.com

Put mushrooms, tomatoes, red and yellow peppers, onion and garlic in a large roasting pan. Roast for about 30 minutes or until the vegetables caramelize.

Eating healthy doesn’t mean all salads, all the time. From appetizer to dessert, healthy, easy-to-make, creative and colorful recipes can improve health and add flavor to life.

photo by Stephen Blancett

Preheat oven to 400° F.

Avoiding Injury

Jag_cz/Shutterstock.com

fit body

WARMING UP FOR WINTER SPORTS Sure-Fire Ways to Get Fit

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by Marlaina Donato

hether skiing on fresh powder on a mountain slope, ice skating or snowshoeing, winter recreation offers new opportunities to get in shape and a specialized focus for fitness.

“Preparing your body should be on top of your list of vacation details,” says physical therapist Linda Scholl, of the University of Utah Orthopaedic Center. Her ski fitness classes in Salt Lake City focus on developing four muscle groups: quads, hamstrings, glutes and core. “Ideally, you should take six to eight weeks to prepare for a ski vacation, but three weeks’ prep is better than nothing,” she says. That also goes for most winter pursuits.

Sean Sewell, founder of Mountain Fitness School, in Denver, concurs. “People tend to think that these sports are mostly quad-dominant, but it’s not necessarily the case. I believe the body works as a unit, and is therefore only as strong as its weakest link, so all muscle groups are important in the big picture.”

Winter-Ready Workouts Lunges, single-leg dead lifts and lateralmotion exercises are all well-suited for tailored training. Winter fitness prep classes offer ideal benefits, but simple

walking or running up and down stairs can also do wonders. “Stairs are the closest thing to a hill, and you can get creative with stairs—skipping a stair or hopping. It also has a cardio component which helps you adjust to the altitude of a ski destination,” says Scholl.

Maggie Lehrian, owner of Roots Yoga Studio, in Hawley, Pennsylvania, attests to yoga’s benefits for conditioning, “The standing sequences in yoga practice, especially hatha yoga, are tremendously effective at increasing balance and strength in the legs and glutes needed for crosscountry and downhill skiing, skating and snow shoeing.”

She recommends adding 30 minutes of cardio, such as walking or running, three times a week to a balanced yoga practice that includes components of strengthbuilding and stretching. Yoga fosters concentration and endurance and offers unrealized benefits. “Breathwork can be extremely helpful when traveling to higher altitudes,” says Lehrian. Yoga also scores high for attaining a confident, healthy beach body for a winter Caribbean getaway, with strength-building, core-focused styles such as vinyasa or power flow.

Experts agree that the body’s core muscle groups are not only key in getting fit, but play a major role in preventing common injuries. “The core should always be activated during heavy exercises. This keeps the back safe and allows for better power output,” says Sewell. “The core is not just the abdominal muscles. I like to think of the core as an area from the shoulders to the knees and both the front and back of the body.”

Proper alignment is paramount.

“Skiing involves absorbing a lot of force.

It’s literally controlling a fall downhill, so leg alignment is everything,” says Scholl.

This applies to many winter sports—including skiing, hockey and ice skating— to avoid injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament, which stabilizes the knee.

Body Basics Being winter-ready also means eating well and staying hydrated, both on and off the slopes. “Eat well and take recovery seriously,” says Sewell. “If you are serious about performance and recovery, then do not skip out on eating.”

Scholl recommends drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol before hitting the slopes and consuming a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, especially postworkout or after a day of skiing.

Perks of Winter Sports Choosing a winter sport is ideal to help combat cold weather blues and the all-toocommon winter rut. As a bonus, skiing and snowboarding burn a surprisingly high number of calories. In essence, getting outside just makes winter more enjoyable.

“Whether it is a solo powder day or a mellow spring day, being in the mountains is empowering and rejuvenating,” says Sewell.

Scholl agrees. “It’s important to stay active, regardless of how cold it is outside.

Enjoy winter and where you are.”

Marlaina Donato is the author of Multidimensional Aromatherapy and several other books. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

February 2019

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How to Align Money With Values

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by April Thompson

ow we spend our money is important, but how and where we save it matters just as much. Today’s financial marketplace offers diverse options for values-based investing and banking, regardless of interests or assets.

Sustainable, responsible and impact investing is rapidly expanding. Professionally managed assets in the U.S. using socially responsible investment (SRI) strategies grew from $8.7 trillion to $12 trillion in the last two years, according to a 2018 report by the Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment. This represents 26 percent—about one in four dollars—of all U.S. assets under professional management.

The Big Bank Break-Up While large numbers of investors are moving their money responsibly, changing bank accounts can still feel difficult to many people, says Fran Teplitz, executive co-director of the Washington, D.C., nonprofit Green America, which works to promote a more sustainable economy.

To make the sometimes intimidating bank-changing process a little easier, Green America’s Get a Better Bank campaign at GreenAmerica.org/GetABetterBank breaks it 28

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down into bite-sized steps. “Educate yourself on the issues with the conventional banking industry, from Wall Street speculation to predatory lending practices,” says Teplitz.

People don’t need to sacrifice banking needs for their values. Reflect upon what’s important in a financial institution, and then shop around for the right fit. Credit unions and community development banks that lend in local and underserved communities are often great choices, says Teplitz. Green America’s Get a Better Bank database is a great starting point for responsible banking options.

Investing for the Future For longer-term investing, there are more vehicles available to responsibly assist investors toward their financial and social goals. While responsible investing once meant simply screening out “sin stocks”, like tobacco, guns and gambling, which were available only to investors able to make a large minimum deposit, today there are values-based funds to suit every cause and income level.

“Socially responsible investing has come a long way since it got off the ground in this country during the apartheid divestiture movement in the 1980s,” says Gary

Matthews, an investment advisor and CEO of SRI Investing LLC, headquartered in New York City.

Countering some investor concerns about underperforming SRI funds, there is a growing body of evidence to show that money that does good can also do well. The firm Nuveen TIAA Investments assessed the leading SRI equity indexes over the long term and “found no statistical difference in returns compared to broad market benchmarks,” nor any additional risks, according to a 2017 report Responsible Investing: Delivering Competitive Performance.

SRI Approaches and Outcomes Fossil fuel-free portfolios are trending, Matthews notes—which Green America encourages. While acknowledging the ever-fluctuating price of oil, Matthews says he’s seen diversified portfolios that eliminate oil, coal and natural gas do better at times than those that include them.

A subset of SRI investments, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) investing focuses less on what sector a company is in than on how they conduct their business. The way companies treat their employees and respond to climate change are factors that may have a positive influence on financial performance.

Robo-advisors, a recent arrival in the SRI sector, are online investment services that automate money management. Roboadvisor companies make it easier for people to invest and leverage technology to keep fees down, although they usually do not offer in-depth impact research on the companies within the financial products they offer, according to Amberjae Freeman, of the portfolio management team for Swell Investing LLC, an impact investment company in Santa Monica, California.

Swell evaluates thousands of companies to build diversified portfolios of businesses aligned with at least one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Like most SRI firms, Swell offers retirement IRAs (individual retirement accounts), as well as more liquid brokerage accounts, with a minimum initial deposit of $50.

While the array of investment options can be daunting, investors should aim for progress, rather than perfection, in their portfolios. As the money and impact in a portfolio grows, so does an investor’s confidence and knowledge.

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April Thompson is a freelance writer in Washington, D.C. Connect at AprilWrites.com.

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healthy kids

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Soothing Anxious Kids Natural Remedies Restore Calm

by Marlaina Donato

K

ids and teens have always had plenty to be stressed about, such as family finances, parental bickering, the birth of a sibling and other challenges on the home front. Then there are the age-old tensions of taking school exams and squabbles with friends and other classmates.

Yet with the proliferation of social media and cyber-bullying, kids face obstacles other generations did not, and chronic juvenile anxiety has become a pervasive mental health issue. However, there are a number of integrative approaches that can help heal youthful psyches. “I encourage kids and parents to focus on skills, versus pills,” says Lawrence Rosen, M.D., founder of The Whole Child Center, in Oradell, New Jersey. “There are several safe and cost-effective natural options for anxiety.”

Mindful Modalities Relaxing and engaging the imagination are necessary for healthy brain development and offsetting stress. Downtime in general and specifically limiting screen time is paramount. “Electronic devices can be very overstimulating and can cause or exacerbate anxiety,” says Kristi Kiel, ND, Ph.D., of Lake Superior Natural Health, in Ashland, Wisconsin. “There should be at least a one-toone balance of screen time and outside play.”

Mindful activities and creative outlets like art, music and dance in a no-pressure environment help kids get out of “fight-or30

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flight” mode. “Both parents and kids need to have go-to coping skills,” says Rosen.

“Meditation and yoga are safe and work very well.” Kids need to feel a sense of control over their bodies, he adds, and mindful breathing techniques can make a significant difference in how they handle stress.

So can a regular dose of the great outdoors. Exercise helps boost serotonin levels, which decreases anxiety. Timothy DiGiacomo, Psy.D., clinical director of the Mountain Valley Treatment Center, in Plainfield, New Hampshire, emphasizes the value of getting outside. “Connection to nature, calmness and present-moment awareness are all benefits.”

Sleep and Diet Triggers Before parents seek any treatment for their child’s anxiety, Kiel stresses the importance of looking at the basics. “When children don’t get enough sleep, their bodies don’t respond as well to stressful situations.

School-age children need 10 to12 hours of sleep per night, and teenagers should be getting nine to 10 hours.” Sensitivity to certain foods such as gluten or dairy is also something to consider, says Kiel.

Rosen concurs. “Artificial dyes and sweeteners can negatively impact mood and focus. More of an issue, though, is nutritional imbalance.” Skipping breakfast or eating mostly carbs can feed anxiety, he notes. “The brain relies on sustainable

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omeopathic remedies are most effective and long-lasting when they are prescribed by an experienced practitioner that can find a constitutional remedy that matches the child’s symptoms. However, they can also be used effectively on a short-term basis.

n Aconite: for panicky feelings that

seem to come out of nowhere, or for anxiety that begins after some type of trauma

n Arsenicum: for anxiety about health or fear of germs n Gelsemium: for stage fright and both performance and anticipatory anxiety n Phosphorus: for children that

worry about the safety of their parents

n Pulsatilla: for children that have a hard time being alone and need lots of reassurance and attention

For More Advice Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (abct.org) International OCD Foundation (iocdf.org) National Child Traumatic Stress Network (nctsn.org)

Food for Thought In 2015, The New York Times reported on the use of mind-altering medications for infants and toddlers. Approximately 83,000 prescriptions for Prozac were written for kids of ages 2 and younger in 2014, as well as 20,000 prescriptions for antipsychotics.

Julia Kuznetsova/Shutterstock.com

Helpful Homeopathy

cynoclub/Shutterstock.com

fuel—a blend of lean proteins, healthy fats—and in some cases, gluten-free, whole grain carbs.”

Eating foods high in healthy fat and protein can help minimize blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger symptoms of anxiety in kids. Probiotics and/or cultured and fermented foods can help gut health and promote equilibrium. Omega-3 fats from fish or vegetarian sources are also important additions.

natural pet

Helpful Supplements Supplements dosed appropriately for children and teenagers are safe and can offer huge benefits. “Magnesium is good for relaxation, especially anxiety accompanied by muscle tension. B-complex vitamins are also important because they are depleted by stress and help the body to handle stress,” says Kiel. Her herbal recommendations include skullcap, hops and milky oat as teas or glycerin-based extracts. “For teenagers, in addition to these three gentle herbs, I recommend kava kava, which can have a significant calming effect without drowsiness.”

Polyvagal Theory Research by Stephen Porges, Ph.D., a professor at the University of North Carolina, in Chapel Hill, addresses the importance of the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain through the face and thorax to the abdomen.

His polyvagal theory suggests the interconnectedness of emotions, mind and body in both children and adults.

This nerve affects all major organs and plays a critical role in anxiety and inflammation. Mindful breathing and using the vocal chords, especially singing, stimulates the vagus nerve and nourishes well-being. Splashing the face with cold water during times of stress also tones this nerve and reduces acute anxiety.

DiGiacomo emphasizes that different natural therapies offer hope even for severe cases, advising, “It’s important to know that anxiety is highly treatable.”

Marlaina Donato is the author of Multidimensional Aromatherapy. Connect at MarlainaDonato.com.

Essential Oils for Pets How to Use Them Safely

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by Sandra Murphy

ssential oils are derived from plantbased sources, leading people to equate natural with safe; but that’s not always the case. Knowing how and when to use oils is vital, according to Gary Richter, DVM, an integrative veterinarian and medical director of Holistic Veterinary Care, in Oakland, California. A veterinarian trained in the use of essential oils understands the properties of each oil, along with its proper dilution and application, a subject not generally taught in traditional veterinary schools; holistic medicine requires additional training.

With proper use under professional guidance, essential oils can be part of a larger treatment plan, says Richter. Cats are generally more sensitive to oils because they don’t metabolize medicine as efficiently as dogs, he notes. “As one professor used to tell our veterinary class, ‘Cats are not small dogs, so they can’t be treated as if they are’—always good to remember.”

Soothing Effects Just as chamomile tea relaxes humans, anxious dogs find its scent calming. Some vets spray the exam room with lavender between appointments to calm anxious clients.

Sally Morgan, a physical therapist and advanced certified practitioner of the

gentle animal bodywork therapy known as Tellington TTouch, sees clients in her Northampton, Massachusetts, office. “I put a drop of a peace and calming blend or lavender on the carpet or a pillow,” she says. “It relaxes the animal and dissipates the smells of previous clients. I don’t use diffusers. The odor can be too strong for their sensitive noses. There’s also a danger it could spill and be licked up.”

Certified Professional Dog Trainer Knowledge Assessed Kim Paciotti, owner of Training Canines, LLC, based in Statesville, North Carolina, finds the scent of green apples relieves anxiety and soothes upset tummies for dogs and puppies that suffer from motion sickness. “Cotton balls placed inside a small container clipped to the outside of their crates deliver the smell,” she says. “They don’t have direct contact, but still reap the benefits, allowing the dogs to self-medicate by sniffing when they feel the need.”

Kimberley Wallace, founder of kW Sustainable Brands, in San Diego, burns organic, sweet basil-scented candles for their antiviral, antibacterial properties. Her pugs love the smell. “Our rescue pug has mast cell tumors which compromise her immune system. I do my due diligence to buy all-natural products whenever I can.”

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Proceed With Caution

community spotlight

Pure essential oils are far too strong to use undiluted, Richter says. Age, physical condition and species are so varied that guessing which oil and how to use it can be dangerous to the pet. “Skin irritation like a hot spot or rash is a relatively minor problem that could benefit from the right essential oil. An open wound requires a veterinary visit,” he says. “Some oils aren’t recommended unless under veterinary guidance. Reactions can range from mere annoyance to toxicity.”

Wintergreen, melaleuca, pennyroyal, tea tree and pine oils cause the most reported problems for dogs, according to PetPoisonHelpline.com. Peppermint, cloves, cinnamon and oregano oil also can be quite strong and require educated use, says Richter. An uneven gait, vomiting, diarrhea, drooling and weakness can be symptoms of toxicity, requiring immediate veterinary care to prevent damage to the central nervous system or organ failure.

In its fragrance and taste, plants have defense mechanisms to ward off destructive insects or to attract bees and butterflies. Those same properties can help people and animals. The plant’s natural compounds can ward off fungi, bacteria, parasites or inflammation. However, just reading a label isn’t enough to know which oils will work best for these problems.

“The Animal Desk Reference II: Essential Oils for Animals, Second Edition, by Melissa Shelton, is a reader-friendly guide,” says Richter. “I touch on the subject in my book The Ultimate Pet Health Guide: Breakthrough Nutrition and Integrative Care for Dogs and Cats, but for deeper study, I recommend Shelton’s book.”

“One thing I’d say is, learn all you can before using oils around pets,” Richter says.

“There’s not a one-size-fits-all formula for dilution for safe use. There are too many variables with oils and animals.”

Be more than a well-meaning pet lover—also be well-educated.

Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.

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Four Decades of Multifaceted Chiropractic Care: The Gleason Center

By Marlaina Donato

W

hile still in engineering school, Dr. Daniel Gleason, DC suffered debilitating sciatica followed by a back injury. No one in the medical field offered answers or resolution for his pain, and that was when Gleason decided to take a friend’s advice and see a chiropractor. It would prove to be a life-altering decision. He not only found relief but inspiration. Gleason switched career paths and opened his practice in 1978 with hopes of helping others.

Despite training and passion, Gleason quickly found the conventional chiropractic paradigm of diagnosis inconsistent and incomplete. “I was dismayed with basic chiropractic analysis of X-raying spines and realized I couldn’t base what I was doing on just that,” Gleason explains. “Someone with a healthy-looking X-ray can be in terrible pain while another person who has an X-ray showing a lot of problems can have little or no pain.” Gleason branched out and dug deeply into chiropractic’s lesser-known traditional approaches, including Applied Kinesiology which yielded more reliable results.

Applied kinesiology, among other diagnostic tools, helps to determine interference in the body, whether the stressor is physical, mental or chemical. Gleason clarifies, “I don’t treat diseases. I treat people. Every individual has his or her own reasons why they suffer with certain conditions. That’s where the disease model breaks down—everyone is highly individual.”

This philosophy of individuality is the foundation of The Gleason Center.

Along with chiropractic and Applied Kinesiology, tests—hormone, digestive and nutritional—also play a role in getting to the bottom of chronic conditions. Newer, noninvasive modalities such as Cold Laser Therapy and PEMF also offer promising results whether it be for quicker healing of soft tissues or waking up dormant energy in cells. Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease also seem to improve. Gleason elaborates, “Any type of trauma or deficiency can cause the mitochondria—the energyproducers in cells—to become sluggish or dormant and go into hibernation. Using PEMF and Cold Laser Therapy is like taking a plant out of the closet and putting it out in the sunlight.”

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The emotional body and psyche of a person are also taken into consideration in diagnosis and individualized treatment.

“Emotions and attitudes can have neuromuscular patterns,” says Gleason, who also employs appropriate holistic methods like visualization, personal affirmations and Bach Flower Remedies.

Gleason walks his talk, and he relied on his own methods when he was grimly diagnosed with Ankylosis Spondylitis, a degenerative arthritic condition of the spine that doctors predicted would sign his fate to a wheelchair. “I accessed myself and discovered that I have a quirk around the B vitamin biotin and need high doses of it. Once I did that, my propensity toward spondylosis turned off, and I now have no deformity of my spine whatsoever.”

It is a common assumption that chiropractic is only for conditions involving pain, but it is very much multidimensional.

It can also be a reliable, collaborative effort.

“Chiropractors work in conjunction with other medical providers and practitioners to have an individualized approach and success for each patient,” emphasizes Gleason. “Even in cases of chronic pain, most of the time, nerves can be restored to a healthy, normal pain threshold. Medication should be the last resort, after everything else fails, and unfortunately, medications are prescribed first.”

The Gleason Center accepts most major insurances and offers out-ofpocket plans for services not covered.

“Health should be our first priority, above all else,” says Gleason, who believes in the philosophy of Bernie Siegal, “Hope is hope. There is no such thing as false hope.” For the veteran doctor known for his dedication and uncommon expertise, retirement is not even up for discussion.

“People ask me when I will retire. I have no plans on retiring. This work is far too important and engaging!”

The Gleason Center is located at 9084 Fruitport Rd. in Spring Lake. For more information, please visit TheGleasonCenter.com or call 616-846-5410. See ad page 23.

Marlaina Donato is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Copper device stops a cold naturally last holidays,” she said. “The kids had colds going around, but not me.”

Some users say it also helps with sinuses. Attorney Donna Blight had a 2-day sinus headache. When her CopperZap arrived, she tried it. “I am shocked!” she said. “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.”

Some say copper stops nighttime stuffiness if used just before bed. One man said, “Best sleep I’ve had in years.”

Copper may even stop flu if used earNew research: Copper stops colds if used early. ly and for several days. Lab technicians ew research shows you can went away completely.” It worked again placed 25 million live flu viruses on a stop a cold in its tracks if you CopperZap. No viruses were found alive every time he felt a cold coming on and take one simple step with a soon after. he hasn’t had a cold since. new device when you first feel a cold People have used it on cold sores He asked relatives and friends to try coming on. and say it can completely prevent ugly it. They said it worked for them, too, so Colds start when cold viruses get in outbreaks. You can also rub it gently he patented CopperZap™ and put it on your nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you on wounds, cuts, or lesions to combat the market. don’t stop them early, they spread in infections.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it your airways and cause misery.

The handle is curved and finely texand given feedback. Nearly 100% said But scientists have found a quick tured to improve the copper stops way to kill a virus. Touch it with copper. colds if used withcontact. It kills in 3 hours after the Researchers at labs and universities germs picked up first sign. Even up agree, copper is “antimicrobial.” It kills on fingers and microbes, such as viruses and bacteria, to 2 days, if they hands to protect still get the cold it just by touch. you and your That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyp- is milder and they family. tians used copper to purify water and feel better.

Copper even heal wounds. They didn’t know about Users wrote kills deadly germs Sinus trouble, stuffiness, cold sores. that have become viruses and bacteria, but now we do. things like, “It Scientists say the high conductance stopped my cold right away,” and “Is it resistant to antibiotics. If you are near of copper disrupts the electrical balsupposed to work that fast?” sick people, a moment of handling it ance in a microbe cell, destroying it in Pat McAllister, age 70, received one may keep serious infection away. It may seconds. as a gift and called it “one of the best even save a life.

Tests by the Environmental Protecpresents ever. This little jewel really The EPA says copper still works tion Agency (EPA) show germs die fast works.” Now thousands of users have even when tarnished. It kills hundreds of on copper. Some hospitals tried copper stopped getting colds. different disease germs so it can prevent for surfaces like faucets and doorknobs.

People often use CopperZap preserious or even fatal illness. ventively. Frequent flier Karen Gauci This cut the spread of MRSA and other CopperZap is made in the U.S. of used to get colds after crowded flights. illnesses by over half, and saved lives. pure copper. It has a 90-day full money Though skeptical, she tried it several The strong scientific evidence gave back guarantee when used as directed times a day on travel days for 2 months. inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When to stop a cold. It is $69.95. Get $10 off he felt a cold coming on he fashioned “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” each CopperZap with code NATA8. a smooth copper probe and rubbed it Businesswoman Rosaleen says when Go to www.CopperZap.com or call people are sick around her she uses Cop- toll-free 1-888-411-6114. gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold perZap morning and night. “It saved me Buy once, use forever.

N

ADVERTORIAL February 2019

33

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.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY FEBRUARY 1-3

EnergyTouch® Basics: Dolphin Breath Prerequisite Training – 9am-1pm, Fri, 9am-6pm, Sat and Sun. This event is designed to provide the necessary skills to help participants deal with their health issues while also serving as prerequisite training for application to the school. The Energy Touch® Center, 1331 Lake Dr Suite 100, Grand Rapids.

Info: EnergyTouchSchool.com, 616-897-8668.

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 1

Shamanic Journey Walk – 5pm. Celebrate the beauty of the mid-winter! A shamanic journey walk is one in which we take a walk in a forest, which alone has healing value. We will open ourselves up to the truth, wisdom, and guidance in nature and in ourselves. $10, drop-ins welcome. Pickerel Lake Park, 6001 Ramsdell Ave NE, Rockford. Info: ShamamaGroup.com.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 2

Healing Bracelets Workshop – 1pm. Come make a healing stone bracelet. All materials are provided (strong elastic & stone beads). Learn the basics about healing stones. $20. Choices Unlimited, 8887 Gull Rd, Richland. Info: 269-629-5507.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 4

Reiki Share – 10am-12pm, 6-8pm. Being offered twice in one day! 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 NE, Grand Rapids. Register: TheRemedyHouse. org, 616-443-4225.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 5

Tuesday Evening Meditation – 6:30pm. Channeled guided meditation is implemented to release stress, let go of problems and feel peace of mind.

Directly after meditation will be a free card circle.

Participants get to ask one question about something they need help with and everyone draws cards and gives them advice on how to move forward. Everyone is welcome to this very supportive group. $5. Choices Unlimited, 8887 Gull Rd, Richland.

Info: 269-629-5507.

Webinar – 6:30pm. Welcome to the PRIVAMD | WELLNESS signature program. Free. Info@ privamd.org, 616-213-0253.

Natural Health 101: Gut Health – 10am, 6pm.

New class offered twice! If more focus is placed on proper gut health, then overall health tends to blossom. The gut—more than the brain, the heart or any other organ—is deeply connected with many other body systems and functions. Come find out more about how to get this key body system healthy. $10. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Must pre-register by Feb 4: TheRemedyHouse.org, 616-443-4225.

Why Can’t I Lose Weight? Workshop – 6:30pm.

This class will address the roadblocks that hinder

34

West Michigan Edition

people from losing weight in a natural and healthy manner. The staff will discuss their services and why their weight loss techniques are different than others.

Seating is limited to 24. Free. The Healing Center of Natural Health, 4288 3 Mile Rd NW, Suite 3, Grand Rapids. Register: Drowings.Weightseminar.com.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 6

The Healing Power of Hemp Oil – 10am-12pm, 6-8pm. Being offered twice in one day! Come clear up some of the confusion with the difference between Hemp, CBD, and Marijuana. Learn all the wonderful healing benefits being proven by Hemp products from Naturopathic Doctor, Jodi Jenks. $25. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Must pre-register by Feb 5: TheRemedyHouse.org, 616-443-4225.

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 7

Intro to Access Bars – 6:30-8pm. If anyone is interested as to what are Access Bars®, or why anyone would choose an Access Bars® class, then Access Bars® Facilitators Rebecca Stephens and John Scott Campbell hold the answers. At this Access Bars® intro night, participants will learn more about this modality. $20. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register and info: TheRemedyHouse.org, 616-443-4225, RebeccaSalchemy@gmail.com.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 9

A SoulCollage® Reflection: Winter Wonderings – 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend and create collage cards that help explore aspects of the soul.

The cards are fascinating vehicles to uncover hidden parts of one’s self and support system. Participants will have time to create up to three cards, and journal and reflect with them. All supplies included. $35 new students, $30 returning students. 3493 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. Must register: ruthzwald55@ gmail.com.

Inspire! Topic: Celebrating ALL Love – 10am1pm. Inspire! is a monthly community event that creates an opportunity to grow spiritually and ethically by exploring specific areas of concern and highlighting ways in which those concerns are being addressed. The class starts with an opportunity for reflection, healing and growth and then a challenge to use our health and wholeness by helping to address the needs of the larger community. This event is participative and experiential! Free. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: ExtendedGrace.org.

DIY@GRPL: Book Planters – 1pm. Create a planter out of a book! This ingenious craft will be a fantastic conversation piece for the home or the perfect gift for a loved one. All supplies will be provided, including one succulent per person.

Free. Grand Rapids Public Library - Main Library, 111 Library Street NE, Grand Rapids. Info: commreq@grpl.org.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 10

Living Intentionally – 1:30-3pm. Participants will reconnect with the ever-abundant energy of the Universe through learning to set and direct their intention by quieting the mind to hear what they already know. Artist and therapist Monica Smith will facilitate. $20. Moondrop Herbals, 351 Cummings, NW, Grand Rapids. Pre-registration and payment required: 616-735-1285.

The Mahanta: Constant Guidance, Constant Love by Eckankar – 10-11am. ECK Light and Sound Service, second Sunday each month. Free.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Dominican Center at Marywood, Room 4, 2025 E Fulton, Grand Rapids. Info: ECK-MI.org, eck. mi.info@gmail.com, 269-370-7170.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 12

Natural Health 101: Purify 2.0 – 10am, 6pm.

New class offered twice! Toxic world plus toxic gut equals toxic health. When bad bacteria dominate the gut they produce endotoxins. These weaken or damage the gut lining, allowing food and toxins to escape and spread throughout the body, impairing health. Learn how to get a handle on the internal environment and get back into balance naturally. 1 hour, $10-$20 per person. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register by Feb 8: TheRemedyHouse.org, 616-443-4225.

Webinar – 6:30pm. Functional Medicine Introduction. Free. Info@privamd.org, 616-213-0253.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13

Chakradance – 6:30-8:30pm. CHAKRADANCE™ is a well-being movement practice. It uses spontaneous dance to specific chakra-resonant music for the purpose of healing and retuning the whole energy system. Led by Andrea Sulak, a humanistic psychotherapist who specializes in working with the chakras as a way for individuals to gain more happiness! $20. Thought Design, 10 E. Bridge St, Rockford. Info: ShamamaGroup.com.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 16

Access Bars Class – 9:30am-5:30pm. Led by Rebecca Stephens and John Scott Campbell, this event allows people to lay back and just receive.

Class includes Access Bars® manual, head charts, facilitation, clearings, certification, and more! After 1 Access Bars® class participants will be considered an Access Bars® certified practitioner and are able to charge for Access Bars Sessions plus attend Access Bars® Trades! $350. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register: www.accessconsciousness.com/en/class-catalog/ core-classes/bars/access-bars-class_67070/. Info: rebeccasalchemy@gmail.com, 616-510-6525.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 17

Manifesto Writing – 1-4:30pm. This class is for anyone who has so many ideas and thoughts that they struggle with what action to take. Life Coach Jamie Dooley will show participants how writing down their dreams forces them toward a new type of clarity that is the foundation for success, balance, and fulfillment in their career and life.

Refreshments provided. $65. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct NE, Grand Rapids. Info: ShamamaGroup.com.

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

This workshop will feature an opportunity to pause, breathe, and reflect through images. Participants will create up to three cards to start their deck. This introductory workshop will provide everything needed to get started on a SoulCollage® journey. $35, all supplies are included. 3493 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. Must Pre-register: RuthZwald55@ gmail.com.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 19

Webinar – 6:30pm. Choice plus change management. Free. Info: Info@privamd.org, 616-213-0253.

Why Can’t I Lose Weight? Workshop – 6:30pm.

This class will address the roadblocks that hinder people from losing weight in a natural and healthy manner. The staff will discuss their services and why

their weight loss techniques are different than others.

Seating is limited to 24. Free. The Healing Center of Natural Health, 4288 3 Mile Rd NW, Suite 3, Grand Rapids. Register: Drowings.Weightseminar.com.

Diabetes, Blood Sugars Plus You – 1pm. 17214 Van Wagoner Rd, Spring Lake. $25. Info: Info@ privamd.org, 616-213-0253.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 20

Mindfulness & Mediation – 2:30-3:15pm. This indoor labyrinth meditation event is led by Sherry Petro-Surdel. Walking the labyrinth is an ancient practice that can help participants find answers to questions they have, help them connect with their inner wisdom and it can bring peace. $10. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland.

Info: MIbodhitree.com, 616-392-7580.

Sound of Soul by Eckankar – 7-8pm. Experience singing HU, a sacred sound and ancient mantra, for divine love, expanded awareness. Free. Dominican Center at Marywood, Room 4, 2025 E Fulton, Grand Rapids. Info: ECK-MI.org, 269-370-7170.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 23

Yoga Time – 11am. Bend, breathe, and shake off the winter blues in this yoga class for kids ages 4-11.

Led by staff from AM Yoga, Yoga Time introduces kids to different kinds of fitness in a no pressure environment. Mats will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own. Free. Grand Rapids Public Library - Main Library, 111 Library Street NE, Grand Rapids. Info: commreq@grpl.org.

Reiki I & II class – 9am-5pm. pm - Introduction to Reiki, become attuned to the universal energy, learn how to give treatment to self and others and meet the Reiki guide. $250, fee includes a $50 deposit due at registration. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register by Jan 8: TheRemedyHouse.org, 616-443-4225.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 24

Advanced Reiki class – 9am-5pm. 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. $275, fee includes a $50 deposit due at registration. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register

by Jan 12: TheRemedyHouse.org, 616-443-4225.

MONDAY FEBUARY 25

The Art of Making Essential Oil Blends – 10am12pm, 5-7pm. Class offered at two different times!

Come learn the chemistry behind the oils, the methods of using essential oils, and how and why they work in the body. $20 per person for workshop; additional $20 to make a blend to take home. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand

on going events

Shamama Breathwork – 4:15-5:15pm. Breathwork is an active breathing method accompanied by special music, oils, sounds, and coaching that can help participants: process and release strong emotions like anger, grief, guilt, and fear; reprogram limiting beliefs; improve energy levels; relieve stress, anxiety, and depression, and connect with the inner wisdom of their higher self. $20, first time is half-off; drop-ins welcome! OMG!Yoga, 251 Northland Dr NE, Rockford. Info: ShamamaGroup.com.

Narcotics Anonymous: Just for Today – 9-10am. Free.

Momentum Center Annex, 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Call Jessica for more info: 616-632-4775.

Student Hot Yoga Night – 7:30-8:45pm. Come for a traditional HOT yoga class, discounted for students! Sign up in advance or just drop-in. Open to non-students as well, but additional pricing options apply. $5 with student ID. 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

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

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 26

Natural Health 101: Purify 2.0 – 10am, 6pm.

New class offered twice! Toxic world plus toxic gut equals toxic health. When bad bacteria dominate the gut they produce endotoxins. These weaken or damage the gut lining, allowing food and toxins to escape and spread throughout the body, impairing health. Learn how to get a handle on the internal environment and get back into balance naturally.

1 hour, $10-$20 per person. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr NE, Grand Rapids. Register

by Feb 25: TheRemedyHouse.org, 616-443-4225.

Webinar – 6:30pm. What the heck can you eat? Free.

Webinar. Info: Info@privamd.org, 616-213-0253.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 27

Write into the Season – 7pm. As the end of February arrives, it’s important to take a moment to look back before launching into a new, busy season of growth and new beginnings! Licensed poetry therapist, Nessa McCasey will guide participants in thoughtful writing prompts and readings that will help deepen their relationship with themselves. $15.

Thought Design, 10 E Bridge St, Rockford. Info: ShamamaGroup.com.

MONDAY

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 NaturalWestMichigan.com/submit-calendar-events/ to submit online.

SUNDAY

Rapids. Register by Feb 24: TheRemedyHouse. org, 616-443-4225.

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 616453-9909.

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.

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

Qigong and TaiChi Easy Class – 10:15-11:15am.

Qigong and Tai Chi Easy™ are moving meditations which use slow graceful movements and controlled breathing techniques to strengthen the mind-body connection, reduce stress and improve circulation thereby enhancing overall health. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: MIbodhitree.com, 616-392-7580.

Support Group: for Loss of Loved One Due to Addiction – 6-7:30pm. First Monday of every month. This support group is for those who have lost a loved one due to addiction, including, but not limited to death due to drug overdose, addictionrelated disease, and suicide. Free. The Momentum Center Annex, 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven.

Info: ExtendedGrace.org, 616-632-4775.

Restorative Yoga – 6:15-7:30pm. This class offers participants time for themselves to relax and unwind in a peaceful environment. Props support restorative poses, giving the body and mind time to fully sink into relaxation. $10 cash drop in, $12 with card. 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

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.

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.

February 2019

35

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Stages on the Path to Enlightenment – 7-8:30pm.

An ongoing course following the Lam Rim, a Tibetan Buddhist text that lays out an extensive roadmap to spiritual understanding and fulfillment. Free.

People’s Unitarian Church, Room 9, 1758 N 10th St, Kalamazoo. Info: JewelHeart.org, westmi@ jewelheart.org.

Smart Recovery – 6-7:30pm. Recovery through Self-Empowerment: the purpose is to help participants gain independence from any addictive behavior. Individuals seeking recovery should be fully informed about the range of recovery options and free to choose among them. This program encourages participants to take responsibility for their own recovery. The meetings support their capacity to regulate their own behavior. Free. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: ExtendedGrace.org.

Family Support Group – 7-8:30pm. Fourth Tuesday of every month. Support group for family members, caregivers, and loved ones of individuals with mental illness. NAMI Family Support Groups are free, confidential and safe groups of families helping other families who live with mental health challenges. Group members can achieve a renewed sense of hope for their loved one living with mental health challenges. Free. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: ExtendedGrace.org.

Peer Support Group: for Parents of Children with Disabilities – 7-8:30pm. Third Tuesday of every month. Led by Laura Marcus-Nolan, these meeting are an opportunity to share stories and discover resources with other parents of children with developmental disabilities. Free. Momentum Center Annex, 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven.

Info: ExtendedGrace.org.

Chair Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. Chair Yoga uses a chair for greater support and stability. With an emphasis on 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. This class it taught

by Kathy Julien. $10 per session. 2025 Fulton St East, Grand Rapids. Register: dominicancenter. com, 616-514-3325.

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-the-Lakeshore-of-West-MichiganWeston-A-Price 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.

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West Michigan Edition

Yoga for Veterans and First Responders (Military, Fire, Police, etc.) – 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. By Donation. 1991 Lakeshore Dr, (in Lakeside shopping center) Muskegon. Register: BlueHorizonsWellness.com, 231-755-7771.

A Course in Miracles – 9:30-11am. A Course in Miracles begins. Nothing real can be threatened.

Nothing unreal exists. Herein lies the peace of God. As its title implies, the course is arranged throughout as a teaching device. It consists of three books: Text, workbook for students, and manual for teachers. The order in which students choose to use the books, and the ways in which they study them, depend on their particular needs and preferences. Come for a study group. We have an open door policy, meaning guests can come anytime. Guests do not have to attend every week. Love offering. 6025 Ada Drive SE Ada. Info: Office@unitycsg.org.

The Law of Attraction Speaking Club – 6:308pm. Do you want to learn how to apply the law of attraction in your life and in your business? We are a group of like-minded individuals who support each other in our growth. Come to Toastmasters where we provide a supportive learning experience where individuals can become better communicators and leaders. Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, 6025 Ada Dr SE Ada. Info: lawofattractiontm@gmail. com or 616-717-3203.

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 Support Group for Parents: Promoting Positive Youth Development – 6-7:30pm. First Thursday of every month. Group members will share their parenting experiences, participate in role playing scenarios, ask questions, and have an opportunity to engage in deep learning. Free. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: ExtendedGrace.org.

Restorative Yoga – 12-1:15pm & 7:15- 8:30pm. All levels are welcome and encouraged to come learn gentle yet powerful poses for the body, mind and spirit. Through these postures one will be seeking and finding balance. This balance will recharge, refresh and rejuvenate. Restorative Yoga is an antidote to stress. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio,

NaturalWestMichigan.com

208 W 18th St, Holland. Info: MiBodhiTree.com, 616-392-7580.

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 experiencing 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.

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.

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.

FRIDAY Dinner and Movie Night – 6-9pm. The last Friday of every month, we offer a free dinner and movie night for the whole community! All are welcome.

Come for dinner at 6pm. Attendees can feel free to bring a dish to pass, or just come as they are! Then at 7pm, the film will start. Free. 714 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven. Info: ExtendedGrace.org.

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: 616-4149111 or Office@ExtendedGrace.org

SATURDAY Hot Yoga – 8-9:15am. Vinyasa style yoga in the Far Infrared-heated yoga room will provide participants with a focused heat that works with their body’s own energy to raise room temperature as they move through the practice. Open to all experience levels. $10 cash drop in, $12 with card. 6189 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale. Info: HeartsJourneyWellness.com.

3rd Saturday Inpire Event – 10am-1pm. SeptMay. 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 Sweetwater Local Foods Market – 9am-12pm.

A double-up bucks and bridge card market. Mercy Health Lakes Campus, 6401 Harvey St. Located inside during inclement weather. Muskegon.

SweetwaterLocalFoodsMarket.org

save the date CALENDAR EVENTS

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.

mark your calendar

mark your calendar FRIDAY-SUNDAY, May 31 - June 2

8th Annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference: Honoring Plant Wisdom – May 31-June 2. Speakers: Venice Williams, Mimi Hernandez, and special guest Susun Weed, along with a wide spectrum of knowledgeable and inspiring instructors. Includes workshops, plant walks and a kids’ camp, as well as teen herbal camps, red tent space, fire circles, singing circles, delicious locally sourced farm-to-table meals and more. Early bird rates available until Jan 14. Camp Helen Brachman, Almond, WI. For more info: MidwestWomensHerbal.com.

mark your calendar FRIDAY-SUNDAY, June 7-9

The Shamama Retreat: Unleash Your Creativity.

Connect with Nature. Renew Your Body, Mind, and Soul – Fri, 5pm, - Sun, 12pm. Longing for an inspirational, peaceful retreat that ignites the soul?

Enjoy a weekend-long Shamama experience!

Attendees will tap into their creative source, find their authentic voice, listen to their inner wisdom, and unleash their power. Featuring: intuitive collaging, shamanic journey walks, breathwork, shadow writing, yoga, and labyrinth walks. Inn at the Rustic Gate 6991 E Hungerford Lake Dr, Big Rapids. Info: ShamamaGroup.com.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, March 9-10

Healing Body, Mind & Spirit Expo – The 5th Annual Holistic Expo will feature professional mediums, intuitives, healers and more gathered under one roof. Free lectures, speakers and prizes included with admission. $10 daily, weekend pass $17, 12 and under free. Kalamazoo Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Dr, Kalamazoo. Info and to view exhibitors: HealingBodyandSpirit.com.

mark your calendar SATURDAY, March 16

Mind, Body, Spirit Expo – 10am-4pm.

There will be holistic body workers including CranioSacral, Reiki, and Acupressure, and more. There will also be intuitive/psychic readers. 332 S Lincoln, Lakeview. Info: THCofLakeview.com, 989-352-6500.

mark your calendar FRIDAY, May 17

Prom with a Purpose – 7-11pm. A fun prom for singles, groups, and couples. This event includes dinner, dancing, cash bar, and nostalgic activities. Prom wear from any era encouraged, casual dress welcome for high school students and adults. $25.

Porto Bello’s Harbourfront Grand Hall, 41 Washinton #220, Grand Haven. Info: ExtendedGrace.org, 616-414-9111.

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community resource guide

HAKOMI THERAPY

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. .

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 DC & Dr. Dan Weessies, MS, DC 19084 North Fruitport Rd, Spring Lake, MI TheGleasonCenter.com 616-638-6234

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

Cold Laser Pain and Neuro treatments for: spectrum disorders, injuries, chronic pain, and pre/post surgical rehab. See ad, page 23.

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 9.

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.

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West Michigan Edition

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.

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 11.

ESSENTIAL OILS 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 22.

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

Essential Oils – Revered for thousands of years for their naturallyenhancing support of body, mind, and spirit. Become a Young Living Essential Oils Member/Customer, and/or an Independent Distributor.

See ad, page 37.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

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 19.

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 11.

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 9.

LGBTQIA COUNSELING DILSWORTH COUNSELING AND THERAPY SERVICES

Sue Dilsworth, Ph.D, E-RYT 500, C-IAYT 6189 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale 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 29.

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

Since 1991, professional, experienced and trained in a complete range of integrative methods. 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.

NUTRITION THE FEELING GROOVY PROJECT Holland, MI 616 212 7703 FeelingGroovyProject.com

Ladies, it’s time to get your groove back! Amanda Chocko is a certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and AIP Coach. She helps women reclaim their health and vitality through personalized nutrition and lifestyle coaching.

Amanda specializes in digestive issues, metabolism and autoimmune conditions.

Contact her for your complimentary nutritional assessment today!

PAIN MANAGEMENT THE LASER PAIN AND NEURO CENTER AT THE GLEASON CENTER 19084 North Fruitport Rd. Spring Lake, MI 49456 info@thegleasoncenter.com 616-846-5410 • TheGleasonCenter.com

Cold laser therapy can provide drug-free pain relief. This noninvasive treatment is for those suffering from arthritis, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, inflammation and other pain syndromes. Our MLS cold laser also treats neurological degenerative conditions like Parkinson’s, ADHD, spectrum disorders and peripheral neuropathy. See ad, page 23.

SCHOOL / EDUCATION 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 19.

classifieds 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.

VOLUNTEERS 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

MARCH

Coming Next Month

Managing Allergies Plus: Nutrition Upgrades NATURAL FOOD ISSUE

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANCED THERMAL IMAGING OF WEST MICHIGAN

Julie Bennett 616-724-6368 info@advancedthermalimagingllc.com AdvancedThermalImagingllc.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.

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