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Natural Alternatives to Common Medications AUGUST 2011 | West Michigan Edition | NaturalAwakeningsMag.com natural awakenings
August 2011
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Naturopathy (Each year 600 hours)
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All Classes Meet On Weekends Fri. 5 - 9 p.m., and Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Naturopaths - 1 per month • Massage - 2 per month
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• Herbology • Aromatherapy • Nutrition • Live Food Preparation • Light Healing Touch • Reflexology • Homeopathy • And More!
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503 E. Broadway • Mt. Pleasant, Michigan • (989) 773-1714 www.nite-mtp.com Mt. Pleasant is 90 minutes North East of Grand Rapids
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contents 9
9 globalbriefs 12 healthbriefs 17 inspiration
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18 wisewords 20 greenliving
28 naturalpet
36 actionalert
Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.
17 KIDS TEACH US JOY by Carolyn Rubenstein
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18 UPGRADING
SCHOOL FOOD
Chef Ann Cooper Helps Kids Eat Right by Ellen Mahoney
36 38 healthykids 40 healingways
20 HOBBY FARMING Growing a Good Life from America’s Roots
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by John D. Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist
advertising & submissions How to Advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 616-656-9232 or email: Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for space reservation is the 12th of each month prior to publication.
News Briefs & article submissions Email articles to: Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for articles is the 5th of the month prior to publication. Submit News Briefs online at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for news briefs is the 12th of the month prior to publication.
calendar submissions Submit Calendar Events online at: NaturalWestMichigan.com. Calendar deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication.
WHERE TO PICK UP NATURAL AWAKENINGS If you enjoyed this magazine and would like to know where you can pick up a free copy in your area, please contact us at 616656-9232 or email us at: publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com
follow us online... Beyond our full “carbon neutral” digital issue each month...
24 DRUG-FREE KIDS Natural Alternatives to Common Medications by Lisa Marshall
28 EVERYBODY OUTSIDE! Create a Yard that Welcomes Kids, Pets and Wildlife
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by Sandra Murphy
32 DOG DAYS OF SUMMER Tips for Caring for Cats and Canines by C.J. Puotinen
40 HEADACHE REMEDIES 40 Natural Ways to Spell Relief by Dr. Lauri Grossman
Check us out and connect with us on Twitter & Facebook! Twitter — Find us at NaturallyWestMI Facebook — Find us at Natural Awakenings of West Michigan
NaturalWestMichigan.com natural awakenings
August 2011
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letterfrompublishers
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contact us Publishers Kyle & Amy Hass Editors S. Alison Chabonais Scott Gillis Linda Sechrist Design & Production Interactive Media Design Scott Carvey Printer Stafford Media Solutions Natural Awakenings 484 Sunmeadow Dr. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508 Phone: 616-656-9232 Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com
www.NaturalWestMichigan.com
Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (12 issues) to the above address. © 2011 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
Committed to Sustainability Natural Awakenings is locally owned and operated.
s I write, I am sitting on the shore of Lake Michigan having fun watching kids at play. How fondly I recall my own childhood days of hanging out here as well on some of Florida’s finest beaches. I got to spend every summer vacation with Dad in Michigan and the rest of the year with Mom in Florida, where I went to school. Michigan’s freshwater beaches have always been my hands-down favorites because I have no worries about possible encounters with stinging or biting sea creatures. I’m also not wild about getting saltwater in my eyes or leaving the ocean with drying salt covering every pore. In my opinion, Michigan summers are unparalleled. While enjoying a beautiful sunset in Aruba last year, I overheard a conversation from some folks comparing sunsets from islands they have visited. One of them stated that while these sunsets were beautiful, there is nothing more captivating than viewing a Lake Michigan sunset. I agree. We enjoy among some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Kyle’s childhood was very different from mine. He grew up in a more traditional setting and remembers sitting around the table every night with his folks and two brothers, enjoying one another’s company while digging into a full course supper. I know that my mom and step-mom wanted this to happen more often for us, but with a total of nine siblings, it was difficult to get everyone on the same schedule (and still is). Kyle’s youth revolved around sports, while mine focused on horses. Until we met, he had never been on a plane, while I was an eager world traveler. However, neither of us would trade our childhood memories for anything. We are both fortunate to be loved by amazing parents who have given us cherished and unforgettable experiences growing up. This month we celebrate children from all walks of life, as well as the adults who care for them, in our Vibrant Children issue. With the start of school right around the corner—I can’t believe I just said that—we are collectively preparing to ensure that West Michigan youths have the tools they need to succeed in living long, healthy, and happy lives. On a related note, today is our own child’s fifth birthday (okay, our dog’s, but don’t tell him that). Thai celebrated by swimming in Lake Michigan and running about with all the kids and other dogs savoring fun in the sun. You’ve got to love dog friendly beaches! Happy summer,
Natural Awakenings is printed on 100% recycled newsprint with soy based ink.
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West Michigan Edition
Amy, Kyle and Thai NaturalWestMichigan.com
newbriefs WMSBF Hosts 6th Annual Scholarship Golf Outing
New Chiropractors in Town!
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he West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum (WMSBF) will host its 6th Annual Scholarship Golf Outing on Monday, August 8, at Wallinwood Golf Club in Jenison. 8:00 a.m. scramble and 7:15 open driving range. The $75.00 cost includes 18 holes of golf, lunch, door prizes and awards, networking and good green fun. Golfer sign-up, sponsorship forms and other details can be found at www.wmsbf.org. The event supports an annual $5,000 scholarship open to senior year college students who have integrated sustainability into their course of study. The scholarship is open to students attending colleges and universities in Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties. Eliott Copier is our 2011 scholarship winner. Eliott is a student at Kendall College of Art and Design, pursuing a degree in Industrial Design. Gabe Wing, Director of Environmental Health & Safety at Herman Miller and Chair of the Scholarship Committee, said of this year’s candidates, they “are deeply passionate about sustainable business and have done great work so far in their young lives. In the end,” Wing says, “we felt that Eliott has demonstrated a more pro-active approach to gaining knowledge and experience in the area of sustainable business. More importantly, his work to date clearly demonstrates his understanding and practice of sustainable business fundamentals.” For more information, visit. www.wmsbf.org.
Anusara Yoga Workshop
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etsey Downing, PhD will be presenting the Anusara Yoga workshop The Power of Love, Friday, August 12 through Sunday, August 14 at Expressions of Grace Yoga, in Grand Rapids. Betsey was one of the earliest certified teachers in Anusara Yoga and serves as a leader in the community as co-chair of the Anusara Certification Committee. She teaches from a deep well of wisdom and practical knowledge, and loves empowering students with progressive techniques to move them beyond their perceived limits. “We are witnessing the glimmerings of a shift in global consciousness with the revolutions sweeping the Middle East and the flowering of all types of spiritual practices worldwide,” says Carol Hendershot, owner of Expressions of Grace Yoga. As a student of yoga you are a participant in these events by facilitating the birth of a new spiritual maturity that energizes the power of love to change the world. Come experience this exhilaration! There are five segments, come to one or all. Contact Carol Hendershot at Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE., at 616-361-8580 or visit www.expressionsofgraceyoga.com. See ad page 16.
Dr. Krystal Czegus & Dr. Sean Medlin
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lear Connections Chiropractic is now open to serve the Grand Rapids community by offering a fresh perspective and a natural, holistic approach to health care. Clear Connections offers a variety of gentle chiropractic adjusting techniques, along with massage therapy, interactive patient education workshops, community-centered events, and other fun and exciting ways to learn to live a healthier lifestyle with increased performance! The practice welcomes athletes, families, expectant mothers, and children of all ages. Contact them today for more information or to schedule an appointment. Visit Clear Connections Chiropractic at 1500 E. Beltline, SE Suite 145 in Grand Rapids. 616-608-3606 or www. clearconnectionschiropractic.com. See ad page 32.
Find us at NaturallyWestMI
natural awakenings
August 2011
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coverartist
Omission Error
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e apologize for omitting the July cover artist bio from our July issue. The title of the art is Happiness in Perpetuity by Paul Bond Pesqueira.
View the artist’s portfolio at www.PaulBondArt.com.
Fourth Annual Salsa Showdown
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Happiness in Perpetuity by Paul David Bond Pesqueira Paul Bond’s magic realism art illuminates a dreamlike world where anything is possible, as he deftly juxtaposes and rearranges common elements to convey universal spiritual or metaphysical ideas. Sometimes, his paintings are simply uplifting illusions, expressing the whimsical, surreal and fantastic side of life. They are always soothing, visual meditations that delight the imagination and stir the soul. Rearranging familiar objects gives Bond the visual symbols he uses as a language to reflect an emotion or thought he’s entertaining at the moment. “Often, a painting is born from something randomly seen from a car window or a line in a novel or song,” he explains. “If it stirs my curiosity, it finds its way into my work.” About Happiness in Perpetuity, he says, “We create our experience and physical environment based on our beliefs and thoughts. Those who wait for outer experiences to make them happy are at a disadvantage—happiness is simply a choice, based on our desire for it.” View the artist’s portfolio at PaulBondArt.com. 6
West Michigan Edition
ot? Mild? Inferno? Do you have the best salsa in the West? (Michigan, that is!) Then prove it at the Holland Farmers Market Salsa Showdown. The Fourth Annual Salsa-Making contest will be held at the market on Saturday, August 20. The contestants will be provided with all of the tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro they need, but they must provide their own “secret ingredients” and prize-winning recipes. Contestants will have two hours to make their salsa on-site the morning of August 20 before the judging and public tasting begins at 11:00am. The public is invited to taste all of the salsas for just $3 and vote for their favorite for the “People’s Choice” award. In addition to the public voting, a panel of judges will taste each salsa to determine who wins the ultimate showdown. Individuals and teams from the community will compete in the amateur division for cash prizes, while restaurants, catering companies, food service providers, and chefs will compete for a traveling trophy in the professional division. The entry fee for the amateur division is $20, while the entry free for professional division is $25. Registration deadline is Tuesday, August 16, space is limited so early registration is encouraged. Registration is available at www.salsashowdown.org. For more information on the Salsa Showdown or Jalapeno Eating Contest, email info@ salsashowdown.org or contact Event Coordinator Carla Flanders at 616-796-1210.
Green Guarantee
GHM
Painting recently started examining its way of doing business and its effect on the environment. As part of an industry known for using products that have the potential to produce harmful environmental effects, they examined ways they could change to become more conscious of the environment. “We know that the two greatest environmental impacts come from our vehicles, which emit carbon dioxide daily, and the VOC’s in the paints and similar products used by our company,” states Glenn Medendorp, owner of GHM Painting. Paint products emit gases known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), and materials used by contractors can lead to excess buildup in local landfills. Recent developments, however, have allowed consumers and contractors increased opportunities to be more environmentally conscious when building new or remodeling an existing home. “Now we are able to repaint a room or an entire home with little or no health risk to the customer. They can return to their home and go back to living their normal life on the very same day. In order to be socially responsible, we have decided to adjust our business practices and help customers understand the importance of remodeling in the most environmentally friendly way possible,” says Medendorp. For more information about GHM Painting or for a Free estimate call 616-862-0964. Visit www.GHMpainting.com. See ad page 8.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Earn 20% With GR Area Dentist
I
f you have denied yourself the finest dental care because your finances are not where you would like them to be, then this is a fantastic program that is too good to pass up. Brigid’s Smile Safety Net Program available at the Dental Health and Wellness Center in Grand Rapids provides you with the opportunity to earn 20% on your money in less than 30 days. You commit an amount of money you feel comfortable with each month based on the level of involvement you select. Every month your credit card will be charged the amount you want to set aside for your dental needs and the best part is your monthly contribution increases by 20% in credit for services right away. You read it correctly. For example, if you set aside $30 per month you are given a credit on your account right away for $36 in services. Choose the amount that works for you and get the smile you deserve and desire. To learn more about this program visit www.FloodTheDentist.com. Contact Dr. Kevin Flood at The Dental Health and Wellness Center, 4990 Cascade SE in Grand Rapids. 616-974-4990. See ad page 48.
22nd Annual Sierra Club Retreat
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Programming includes: kayaking and canoeing, river tubing, swimming, high ropes course, hiking, outdoor games, campfires, great meals, and more. Family crafts, guided hikes, environmental education programs, activist workshops, Saturday keynote speaker, silent auction and entertainment are also included. For more information on Lodging and how to register, visit www.michigan. sierraclub.org/calendar/retreat.html or contact the Michigan Chapter of the Sierra Club at 517-484-2372.
Natural Awakenings is Seeking Salespeople
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he focus of this year’s retreat is “Sustainability” and is a great chance to learn, relax, have fun with like-minded individuals and create new friendships. The Retreat takes place at Camp Miniwanca, nestled between Stony Lake and Lake Michigan in Shelby on August 26-28th. The camp encompasses 360 acres of pristine woods and dunes with more than a mile of Lake Michigan shoreline to enjoy. Open to the public and Sierra Club members alike. The retreat is a family-friendly event. Come to learn about key environmental issues, grassroots organizing skills and commune with nature for an emotional recharge!
atural Awakenings is currently looking for motivated salespeople interested in selling our Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Card. You will be selling to individuals as well as companies here in West Michigan. This is not advertising sales, but more of product sales (our NAN card). Uncapped earning potential. Individuals must be motivated and personable. The new Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) will allow people to obtain membership cards that will provide discounts on products and services focused
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on wellness; green and sustainable living; and natural, healthy lifestyles. NAN’s extensive network will encompass practitioners of alternative and complementary medicine, including: chiropractic, naturopathy, acupuncture, body work and energy work, as well as health and fitness clubs, health food stores, yoga centers, bookstores, green and sustainable living products, spas, vegetarian/healthy restaurants, and much more. Send your resume to Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com or call 616-656-9232 for more details. See ad page 15 for information on the NAN Program or visit our website www.NaturalWestMichigan.com
August Photo Contest Winner
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ongratulations to Jacqueline Lee Muma of Hastings, Michigan. Her photo titled Pink Promise won the contest for August. Jacqueline will be receiving a Gift Certificate to Affordable Nutrition located at 7493 Cottonwood Dr. in Jenison. Thank you to Joel Manning, owner of Affordable Nutrition for donating this month’s prize. See Affordable Nutrition’s ad on page 45.
To submit your amateur photo, please submit your untouched photo to Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com. If your photo is selected, it will be published in one of our monthly issues as well as on our Facebook page. Include your name and address for us to mail you a prize for winning.
Every book is a children’s book if the kid can read! ~Mitch Hedberg
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West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Eat Local Challenge Begins August 1st
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ocal First will host the Eat Local Challenge this August and September with many events highlighting the importance of a sustainable West Michigan food system, featuring tours, workshops, presentations, and more. As part of the Eat Local Challenge, they are asking West Michigan residents to consider taking the 10x10 Pledge. Participants in the 10x10 Pledge commit to shifting $10 out of their current food budget toward local food sources each week for ten weeks. Events run throughout August and September - stay tuned to LocalFirst.com for details. Eating locally grown food has a positive impact our local economy and the environment. Eat Local Challenge event hosting and sponsorship opportunities are still available. Download the Sponsorship Package or contact Meghan Disselkoen at meghan@localfirst.com for more information. There are also many volunteer opportunities available during the Eat Local Challenge. Contact Dan Treul at dan@localfirst.com for more information.
globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Age-Appropriate Lessons
The Ocean Project Reaches Out to Teens and Tweens Encouraging children’s appreciation for nature and their concern for the environment must be approached in age-appropriate ways. Some educators and parents with good intentions teach young children by delving into serious environmental issues such as disappearing species, deforestation and climate change before the children possess the cognitive maturity and background knowledge necessary to fully understand the issues. If children learn abstract information before they have a chance to connect with the natural world, they may end up being confused and the message may not yield results. So, The Ocean Project has developed a new section of its website (TheOcean Project.org) with tips and resources for educators working with young children. Research suggests that when children spend time engaged in nature and outdoor activities, they are more likely to become long-term stewards of our planet. Children could, for example, begin connecting with nature by learning about plants and animals in their backyard, exploring a nearby park or visiting a zoo, aquarium or museum. Empathy, followed by exploration, should be the main objectives in establishing a connection between children and their environment. The Ocean Project’s research has shown that youths ages 12 through 17 are a key audience for improving our ocean planet. Not only is this age group more concerned about environmental issues, they are also more willing than many adults to take action to help the environment. They also exert a huge amount of influence within their households, because parents often view their children as more informed about current environmental issues than they are. This forward-looking age group already reports more involvement with ocean and climate conservation activities than any other age group, but their potential for taking action is far from fully realized.
Mary a. delange C.C.T. C.M.T. Colon HydroTHerapy Some Benefits of Colon Therapy are: • Remove toxic waste from ones body • Eradicate constipation • Removes stomach bloat • Increases ones energy also offering Therapeutic Massage P: 616.456.5033 E: mary@harmonynhealth.net www.harmonynhealth.net
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Name Game
What Do You Want to be Called Today? With “Generation Y” becoming a popular nickname for current teens and young adults, it’s helpful to look back at the history of this trend for some perspective. Generational names are the handiwork of popular culture—some are drawn from a historic event, others from rapid social or demographic change, while others come from a big turn on the calendar. The Millennial Generation falls into the third category. The label refers to those born after 1980, the first generation to come of age in the new millennium. Generation X covers people born from 1965 through 1980. X-ers are often depicted and described as savvy entrepreneurial owners. Baby Boomer is drawn from the great spike in births that began in 1946—following the end of World War II the year before—and ended almost as abruptly in 1964, around the time the birth control pill first went on the market. It’s a classic example of a demographically driven name. The Silent Generation describes adults born from 1928 through 1945. Children of the Great Depression and World War II, their “silent” label refers to the conformist and civic instincts that we associate with many of them. (It also makes for a nice contrast with the noisy waves of the anti-establishment boomers.) The Greatest Generation, those born before 1928, is the generation that fought and won World War II, both overseas and on the home front. As the zeitgeist changes, labels that once seemed spot-on can fall out of fashion. Generational names are works in progress. Source: Pew Research Center
Storytime Pals
Animals Help Children Read Roo, a 6-year-old collie certified by Intermountain Therapy Animals as a therapy dog for visits to nursing home residents and hospital patients, works primarily with his handler, Tina Anderson, as a reading education assistance dog (R.E.A.D.) at Graytown Elementary School, in Graytown, Ohio. Children with trouble reading, a learning disability or shyness, or that just feel intimidated by reading in front of a class, like to read with Roo. “It’s a special connection that makes them feel important,” says Anderson. “Dogs have been successful in having a calming effect on adults. Why not use them with children who have reading and social disabilities?” queries Lesley Pulsipher, national R.E.A.D. coordinator, in Salt Lake City, Utah. “Animals are not judgmental, and children feel safe reading to them. In a classroom, a child’s classmates may laugh at them if they mess up.” According to Pulsipher, the program is not just limited to dogs; carefully vetted cats, guinea pigs, rabbits and miniature horses also visit schools and libraries to help foster reading. She observes that, “The program really helps bring kids out of their shell and gives them a boost of selfconfidence.” Source: aol.com 10
West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Green Dads
Moving Sustainability from Niche to Normal A new dimension of sustainable fathering is emerging among Americans. According to a consumer trend report by EcoFocus Worldwide, Make Way for EcoAware Dads, 65 percent of the nation’s 36 million dads agree that, “When my kids are grown, I want them to remember me as teaching them to be environmentally responsible.” Eco-aware dads want their family’s home and lifestyle to be safe, efficient and responsible, and they see room for improvement: Only 16 percent are very satisfied with how green or eco-friendly their lifestyles are today. “For an eco-aware dad, this is all very integrated and very personal to his role as a father,” explains Lisa Harrison, the research leader for EcoFocus. “For example, while he may have insulated his family’s home for economic reasons first, the secondary benefit is in quality of life, because the home becomes a quieter and more comfortable living space.” More than eight in 10 agree that being eco-friendly is a way to improve quality of life for themselves and their families. Eco-aware dads realize that changes sometimes take big investments of both time and money, and they are concerned about affordability. Still, they see prospects for big payoffs; 83 percent have already changed the way they do things to make choices that are better for the environment.
globalbriefs Green Schools
Earth Day Social Network Launches Earth Day Network (EDN) has launched the first interactive social network for K-12 educators and students, the Educators’ Network, (edu.EarthDay. org), which is intended to fill the growing need for high quality educational tools that support environmental literacy and share “green” school resources. The network will empower teachers and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make their communities healthier and more sustainable, thanks to a $250,000 grant from Wells Fargo & Company. EDN’s Educators’ Network enables educators to share a library of materials collected from teachers nationwide, including lesson plans, teaching materials, grants and blogs. Network members can also “Ask the Expert” for advice, engage in dialogue with EDN staff and key partners, and find grant opportunities targeted to educators. The network also provides resources and tools to support schools in winning the Green Ribbon Schools Award, recently announced by the U.S. Department of Education, rewarding schools that demonstrate significant progress toward increasing their sustainability literacy, reducing their school’s environmental footprint and improving the overall health of students and staff.
I AM A BIONEER
G r e at L a k e s
bioneers traverse City
Sunday, August 7, is International Forgiveness Day ~ ForgivenessAlliance.org
Conservation Matures
WWF Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Hope World Wildlife Fund is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year by posting a progressive step of environmental awareness and action on its website each week. Collectively titled 50 Reasons for Hope, they demonstrate that conservation makes a real difference and that, working together, we can protect the future of our planet. By the end of the year, the 50 Reasons for Hope will give a broad, rich and playful understanding of WWF and a hopeful vision for the future—a vision that everyone can help make a reality.
I AM A BIONEER ConferenCe oCt. 14-16, 2011 Bioneers promote practical environmental solutions and innovative social strategies for restoring the earth’s ecosystems and healing our human communities. food . film . families . music art . workshops . speakers www.glbconference.org 231.947.0312 info@glbconference.org
Visit WorldWildlife.org/sites/anniversary. natural awakenings
August 2011
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healthbriefs
Are Fit Kids Smarter?
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ow important is it that kids engage in physical activity? Very, according to a recent study published in the journal, Brain Research. Kids that are more physically active tend to have a better-developed brain, which in turn helps them perform better on memory tests. The study involved 49 children, ages 9 and 10, who ran on a treadmill to measure their oxygen intake, a standard measure of fitness. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging data of the children found that the more physically fit kids tended to have a larger hippocampus—about 12 percent bigger, relative to total brain size—than their out-of-shape peers and outperformed them on relational memory tests. The hippocampus is known to be important in learning and memory. The new findings suggest that interventions to increase childhood physical activity could have an effect on brain development. “We knew that experience and environmental factors and socioeconomic status all impact brain development,” says Art Kramer, the University of Illinois psychology professor and Beckman Institute director who led the study. “It’s not easy to do something about your economic status, but here’s something that we can do something about.” Source: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010
Kids Know What’s Fair
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espite what many grown-ups might think, toddlers have a marked sense of fairness. In a recent study published in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science, 3-year-olds shared a small reward with their peer after they worked together to earn it, even in situations where it was easy for one child to keep all the spoils. To learn how youngsters share, the researchers paired children to complete a task for a prize, like gummy bears or colorful stickers, piled on a board with wheels inside a transparent box. If only one child pulled on a rope, the board wouldn’t move, but if both pulled together, they could bring it close enough to reach the prize through windows in the box. Some boxes had only one window, so one child could easily grab the prize and keep it, but the toddlers nearly always shared the reward with their partner. Sometimes, if one child didn’t take their half of the spoils immediately, the other even pointed it out. The insight for all of us: If we cooperate, everyone is better off.
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West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Just Say No to Indoor Tanning
D
espite repeated warnings from dermatologists about the health dangers of tanning, results of a new survey by the American Academy of Dermatology confirm that a large percentage of Caucasian teen girls and young women admitted using tanning beds or intentionally tanning outdoors during the past year. Thirty-two percent of respondents had used a tanning bed in the past year—one-fourth of them at least weekly, on average. An overwhelming majority (81 percent) of all respondents reported that they had tanned outdoors either frequently or occasionally during the past year. “Our survey underscores the importance of educating young women about the very real risks of tanning, as melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer—is increasing faster in females 15 to 29 years old than in males of the same age group,” says dermatologist Dr. Ronald L. Moy, president of the academy. “Most young women with melanoma are developing it on their torso, which may be the result of highrisk tanning behaviors such as indoor tanning. In my practice, I have had patients—young women with a history of using tanning beds—that have died from melanoma.”
Outdoor Workouts Trump the Gym
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hen deciding whether to run on a treadmill in the gym of jog in a nearby park, opt for the park, suggests a recent study published in the research journal, Environmental Science & Technology. The study authors—a team at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry—say exercising outdoors not only appears to promote physical health, but boosts mental well-being, as well. The team analyzed data from a number of sources, including 11 randomized and non-randomized control trials incorporating information from 833 adults. The study found that exercising in natural environments decreased feelings of tension, confusion, anger and depression, while increasing feelings of revitalization, increased energy and positive engagement. Study participants that exercised outdoors also reported greater enjoyment and satisfaction and stated that they were more likely to repeat their exercise activity.
Cruciferous Cancer Fighters
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ccording to a new report in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, scientists have discovered how broccoli, cauliflower, watercress and other cruciferous vegetables help stunt cancer growth. The vegetables contain substances called isothiocyanates (ITCs) that appear to target and block a defective p53 gene associated with cancer. Healthy p53 genes act as tumor suppressors and prevent cells from starting the abnormal growth that is a hallmark of cancer. The mutated genes— which occur in half of all human cancers—do not offer that protection. ITCs appear to work by removing defective p53 genes while preserving normal, protective ones. Researchers believe the substances support the advice of moms throughout the ages: Eat your vegetables.
No Junk Food Babies
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ew research published online in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology Journal suggests that pregnant mothers whose diets are high in sugar and fat deliver babies that are more likely to become junk food junkies themselves. According to the report, which used rats, such diets lead to changes in the fetal brain’s reward pathway, altering food preferences. The results may offer insight into the ever-increasing rate of human obesity and help explain why some people easily resist fatty and sugary foods, while others seem hopelessly addicted.
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healthbriefs
Kid-Friendly Clues to Healthy Eating
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ccording to a recent study conducted by the YaleGriffin Prevention Research Center, it takes less than two hours to turn students and their parents into “Nutrition Detectives,” able to identify better-for-you foods quickly and reliably. Nutrition Detectives is a 90-minute program for elementary schools and families, developed by Drs. David and Catherine Katz and a team of nutrition and education experts, in response to the current childhood obesity crisis. The study included more than 1,200 Independence, Missouri, students in grades two through four and their parents. Students in all three grades increased their food label literacy scores by 18 percent, with third grade students showing the most improvement (23 percent). The overall gain in scores among students was retained three months after their initial exposure to the program. Download or order free program materials from NutritionDetectives.com.
Diet at Puberty Linked to Breast Health
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irls eating a high-fat diet during puberty, even those that do not become overweight or obese, may be at greater risk for developing breast cancer. The findings come from research at Michigan State University’s Breast Cancer & the Environment Research Center and may help drive new cancer prevention efforts. The pubertal time period is crucial for healthy mammary gland development, and a high-fat diet during puberty could lead to the production of inflammatory elements in the mammary glands of adults which can promote cancer growth.
Pick a Safer Sunscreen
S Save $5 each in August! Skin Sanitizer, Sunscreen & Insect Repellant Safe, effective and chemical free.
Call Clara: 616.698.6148 www.NaturalHealth4Today.com
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ifting through marketing hype to find the best protection for exposed skin just got easier, thanks to the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) online 2011 Sunscreen Guide. After analyzing more than 600 beach and sports sunscreens, EWG recommends only one in five, noting that many include misleadingly high sun protection factor (SPF) ratings that may protect against ultraviolet short-wave (UVB) rays that cause sunburn, but leave skin at risk for ultraviolet long-wave (UVA) Offering Health Coaching in use of TherapeuticTheir Essentialresearch Oils, Cleanses, damage. discovered that nearly one in three Pain Relief, Hormone Issues, products the guide is still laced with vitamin A ingredients as well as in Detoxing Foot Baths, Body Balancing & Biofeedback Scans. that accelerate the growth of skin tumors and lesions, according to recent government studies. Find the guide at BreakingNews.ewg.org/2011sunscreen.
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inspiration
Kids Teach Us
JOY by Carolyn Rubenstein
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hildren daily teach us many lessons about the joys of life.
Meditation Eases Anxiety in Kids Mindfulness meditation is good for kids, too, especially those with high levels of anxiety. Researchers from the University of Cambridge analyzed 155 boys from two independent United Kingdom schools, before and after a four-week crash course in mindfulness. After the trial period, the 14and 15-year-olds were found to have increased well-being, defined as the combination of feeling good (including positive emotions such as happiness, contentment, interest and affection) and functioning well. Best of all, the youth enjoyed the exercises and said they intended to continue meditation, a good sign that many children would be receptive to this type of therapy.
If you’re not good at something, do it again. Kids often do many things badly at first. They fall off their bikes. They stumble in races. They try to hop on one foot, but can’t. They sing off key. It goes on and on. Yet, they usually don’t cry about their initial failures. If anything, they laugh them off. They enjoy the process of failing. And because they keep trying, they get better and eventually even good at many things. If you feel like crying, do it. As adults, we tend to hide our tears and try not to cry at all. This causes sadness and tension to linger longer. When kids are sad or frustrated, they scream and cry and bang their little fists and stomp their feet on the floor. Then, once they’ve had a good, cathartic moment, they recover with a smile and are ready to face the world again. Make up your own dance moves. Have you ever put on a Kidz Bop CD and watched a roomful of 4-year-olds react? It’s an amazing experience. The kids jump and hop and shimmy without a care in the world as to what they look like. They don’t worry about perfecting the latest dance moves; they just move their bodies in ways that feel good to them—and they enjoy every minute of it. Hug your friends. Kids love to hug. They offer kisses easily. They snuggle and generally express themselves easily through touch. As adults, we can learn a lot from their openness.
Wonder why, about everything. As adults, we tend to take the world around us for granted. We are so used to things being a certain way that we no longer question them. Children, though, are more curious. They want to know: Why do flowers grow in one place and not in another? What’s at the center of the Earth? Why do leaves change colors? The world delights and awes them on a daily basis. It can do the same for us, too, as long as we allow ourselves to remain curious about the wonders all around us. Carolyn Rubenstein is the author of Perseverance, a clinical psychology Ph.D. student at Harvard University, and the founding president of a nonprofit that funds scholarships for young adult cancer survivors (cccScholarships.org).
What Children Teach Us About Hope There is something about the way a young child sees the world that can make us believe in anything at all. Children seem to believe in miracles even before they happen. They believe that if they wish for something hard enough it will come true. Children have hope that when they blow on a dandelion or see the first star at night, their wishes will come true. Children know in their hearts that if they find a four-leaf clover they will have good luck. They put faith in the results of blowing out all the candles, with one breath. Don’t stop believing just because there are more candles to blow out. Source: WavesOfGratitude.blogspot.com
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August 2011
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wisewords
Upgrading School Food Chef Ann Cooper Helps Kids Eat Right by Ellen Mahoney
When it comes to healthy lifelong nutrition, what are the three biggest mistakes young people make? In general, I would say the three biggest mistakes are drinking their calories— not understanding how many calories are in sodas, eating way too much sugar in general, and not eating enough colorful fruits and vegetables.
What are the consequences of poor nutrition? Poor nutrition means overall poor health that results in diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and strokes. Too often, young people eat a diet of highly processed foods with high percentages of fat, salt and refined sugar (as well as dyes and additives) and it absolutely, unequivocally causes disease. It’s an acknowledged fact that poor nutrition is literally killing our kids. 18
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How receptive are school systems to improving student menu plans? I think it’s all over the board; some school systems try hard and are doing a really good job and some are not. The toughest part is garnering community support for change. Specifically, I’ve encountered five big challenges when it comes to upgrading to healthier options. They are food, where we are going to get it; finance, how will we pay for it; facility, what we can do if a school doesn’t even have a stove; human resources, how we train onsite staff; and marketing, how we get students to eat healthier food. Schools often see themselves as being in the business of education, but often don’t see the correlation between good food and academic performance. People really do need to understand the truth of the adage, “You are what you eat.” If we don’t help change young people’s relationship to food and do it soon, we’re likely to see the Centers for Disease Control prognostication come true, as well: “Some studies indicate that children born in 2000 may die at a younger age than their parents, because of the food they eat.” There isn’t anything more important than feeding our kids healthy foods, starting today. Courtesy of Kirsten Boyer Photography
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alled the “Renegade Lunch Lady,” Chef Ann Cooper is helping change the world one healthy food at a time. The author of books such as Lunch Lessons: Changing the Way We Feed our Children and In Mother’s Kitchen, she’s championed sound youth nutrition since 1999. After upgrading menus in several New York and California schools, she moved to Colorado, where she directs nutrition services for the Boulder Valley School District, bringing smarter and healthier school lunches to its 28,000-strong student body.
What are the most successful changes you’ve made in your school district? We got rid of all of the processed foods and have no high-fructose corn syrup or trans fats in our menus. We serve fruits and vegetables every day and
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have salad bars in every school. We also serve organic milk and abide by a quota of having at least 51 percent of whole grains in our baked products. All of our food is cooked from scratch. I think that schoolyard gardens are also important. Involving our young people in growing food is a way for them to become part of the food system and learn to have a healthy relationship with food.
What are the biggest or most persistent challenges you’ve encountered? Getting kids to eat right is the key hurdle. We provide a tremendous amount of education to help students learn how, with programs ranging from tastings to iron chef competitions. I regularly attend PTA meetings, show up in school cafeterias and meet with parents. Some of the kids love our food and some don’t, but we’re moving along in the right direction.
What can parents do to help? Parents need to make healthy food a priority in their families. If we want to change our children’s relationship with food, we have to shop with them, cook with them and sit down and eat with them.
If humanity could start all over again with a sustainable and healthy food system, what might that look like? At one time, when we were an agricultural economy, this country did have a sustainable food system; by and large we grew the food we ate. But it changed when we became a mechanized society, especially after World War II, when wartime technologies led to developments in refrigeration and advances in transportation. A truly sustainable food system must have a triple bottom line of healthy foods, healthy kids and a healthy planet. One way to create a more sustainable food system is to find our way back to the kitchen again… and cook. For more information, visit ChefAnn.com. Ellen Mahoney is a freelance writer in Boulder, CO. Connect at evm@ infionline.net.
Chilled Corn Soup with Pesto and Heirloom Tomatoes Summer servings: 6 6 ears of organic corn with husks on 6 cups water 1 tsp salt (divided use) Freshly ground pepper to taste 2 tbsp unsalted sustainable butter 1 cup chopped sweet onions ½ cup peeled and diced yellow potatoes (Yukon Gold, Yellow Finn or German Butterball) ½ cup chopped celery 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme ½ tsp fresh sweet marjoram 1 cup rBGH-free buttermilk (no manmade bovine growth hormone) Pesto 3 small heirloom tomatoes, diced Soak ears of corn in cold water for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Drain corn; place on baking sheet and roast for 5 minutes; turn corn over and roast 5 more minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.
Bring to a boil, lower the heat and simmer 1 hour; strain, discard cobs and save broth. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, potatoes, celery, remaining salt and pepper. Cook until vegetables are wilted. Add corn, corn broth and fresh herbs. Simmer until vegetables are tender. Purée and strain by pressing through a medium-coarse strainer and chill. Stir in buttermilk and adjust seasonings before serving. Garnish soup with a dollop of pesto and diced tomatoes Tip: Excellent with a grass-fed steak, seasoned with salt and pepper, or simply with bread and a farmers’ market salad. Source: Cooking Fresh from the Mid-Atlantic, edited by Fran McManus and Wendy Rickard
Remove husks, cut kernels from cobs and set aside. Chop cobs into two-inch pieces and place in a large pot with the water and ½ teaspoon salt.
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greenliving
HOBBY FARMING
Growing a Good Life from America’s Roots by John D. Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist
Small-scale farming—whether it’s called hobby farming, market gardening, part-time truck farming or homesteading —satisfies many Americans’ yearning to work the land for pleasure, as well as profit. These days, you’re just as likely to find a hobby farm in the city or suburbs as on a country lane.
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nyone serious about growing a large percentage of their own food, raising animals, tending colonies of bees, nurturing an orchard, generating their own renewable energy onsite or managing a timber stand or pond might be considered a hobby farmer. It’s about living close to the land, caring for it and letting it inspire daily life. It also can contribute to the family’s livelihood through sales of products such as honey, fresh produce, eggs or surplus energy. “Living on our farm allows us to engage with the natural world with its
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seasonal patterns, provides many of our family’s needs in a sustainable way and offers a marvelous foundation for our homeschooling adventures,” enthuses Heidi Hankley, who lives with her husband and two kids in a straw-clay insulated home with a wood-fired masonry heater. Her husband commutes to his environmental engineering job in Madison, Wisconsin, and helps out after hours.
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Their seven-acre farm includes a small flock of hens for eggs, three beehives, an organic garden that sends Hankley to the farmers’ market once a week in season, and three acres of tallgrass prairie. “We knew we wouldn’t need to cultivate all of our open land to meet our needs, so instead of leasing it out for more cropping and haying, we decided to restore it to prairie,” she explains. Their set-aside lands earn a per-acre payment from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Conservation Reserve Program. “When the farm is a lifestyle, not a way to earn a living, that’s hobby farming,” write Michael and Audrey Levatino in The Joy of Hobby Farming. They operate the 25-acre Ted’s Last Stand Farm and Gardens, outside Gordonsville, Virginia. “It doesn’t mean one isn’t serious about farming,” says Michael. “We have a thriving, diverse farm business ourselves, but we pay most of our personal expenses via outside employment.” On a residential lot in Santa Monica, California, Lewis Perkins nurtures an abundant orchard of avocados, oranges, guavas and pomegranates as a member of the Home Growers Circle for Forage restaurant, in Los Angeles. Each year, he sells more than 600 pounds of fresh citrus and herbs to Forage. He also harvests his own ginger, pecans, macadamia nuts and bay leaves. When not in the orchard, he works as a certified financial planner. “My garden is so satisfying,” says Perkins, who raises more than 30 fruits on his urban farm. “Sometimes I’ll spend an entire day working in my field, which comprises a 50-by-150-foot city lot.”
“A farm has its own spirituality that gives immense meaning and pleasure. It can’t be measured in acres or the quantity of animals and crops. A farm is a spiritual thing that feeds your soul, as its spirituality pours out of every building and bale of hay.” ~ Thomas Moore
With enough pasture, livestock can be raised on small land holdings. Backyards work well for hens, while larger lots or a few acres may support goats, sheep, llamas, horses or a cow, depending on local ordinances. “You can raise goats on a very small acreage, but then need to supplement the pasture with hay and grain,” says Diana Kalscheur Murphy, owner of Dreamfarm, a community supported agriculture (CSA) enterprise in Cross Plains, Wisconsin. “We have 24 milking goats grazing on about three acres of pasture.” She moves the goats to different pastures in alternating years. Murphy’s goat’s milk cheeses have earned awards, paid the bills and led to making many new friends.
The popularity of hobby farming is growing as more people reclaim control over the quality of their food and rediscover the joys of living close to the land. Hobby farming, despite its name, demands hard work and often a commitment to re-skilling oneself. It may be necessary to learn the finer points of growing vegetables, pruning an orchard, canning pickles and birthing livestock.
“To avoid trouble with the IRS, the most important thing is to show that you are working towards making a profit over several years,” advises Michael Levatino. Besides registering their business with state and federal agencies, hobby farmers must pay applicable sales taxes, keep a separate business bank account, and maintain records of business expenses and revenues. For hobby farmers, especially those with animals, there is no time off. In cold climates, winter is a time of processing, planning next year’s gardens or making repairs, while a farm in warmer regions can produce crops or other products year-round. “If everyone’s a part-time farmer, we can collectively go a long way toward living in a more healthy, just and sustainable world,” Levatino observes. “Many people primarily go into hobby farming so that they can make the jump from being a responsible consumer to a responsible producer.”
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John D. Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist, co-authors of Rural Renaissance, ECOpreneuring and Farmstead Chef, operate the award-winning Inn Serendipity farmstay B&B with their son in Browntown, WI. Connect at InnSerendipity.com.
Helpful Resources Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, dsireusa.org Lifestyle Block, LifestyleBlock.co.nz National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, attra.ncat.org Renewing the Countryside, RenewingTheCountryside.org Rural Renaissance Network, RuralRenaissance.org natural awakenings
August 2011
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A FARMSTEAD SUMMER SUPPER Who doesn’t savor the flavor of fresh, seasonal and local cuisine? Have fun with these recipes from the new Farmstead Chef cookbook for a delicious summertime supper. Warm Zucchini Dip Appetizer
Zucchini is the ultimate mystery ingredient; different people claim to taste different flavors—from noodles to soy sauce—but it’s really the zucchini. Yields 8 appetizer servings 2 cups fresh zucchini, shredded (or any summer squash) 1 tsp salt ½ cup mayonnaise ½ cup plain yogurt ¼ cup hard granular cheese, grated (Parmesan) ¼ cup bell peppers, finely chopped 4 green onions, thinly sliced 1 garlic clove, minced 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp canola oil Pita chips for dipping In a bowl, toss the zucchini and salt. Let stand 1 hour. Drain and press out excess liquid. Mix in mayonnaise, yogurt, cheese, peppers, green onions, garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until combined. Pour mixture into a lightly oiled 8-inch baking pan and bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes or until bubbly. Serve hot with chips for dipping.
Garden Fresh Salad
With a little balsamic honey dressing, this salad is like eating sunshine. Enjoy the fruits of the land. Yields 4 servings ½ cup sweet pea tendrils (young, 22
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green tops of sugar snap sweet peas) ½ cup sugar snap sweet peas, strings removed 1 cup tender mesclun salad mix (comprising small, young leafy lettuces, chervil, arugula or endive) ¼ cup young Swiss chard leaves ¼ cup young dandelion greens ¼ cup nasturtium flowers (edible) ¼ cup bee balm flowers (edible) ¼ cup croutons Wash the delicate salad greens and give the edible flowers a quick shake, checking for insects. Pat dry the mesclun greens. Arrange the delightful colors and textures on the plate, topping with a few croutons and a drizzle of salad dressing.
Balsamic Honey Dressing
With just the right amount of kick, this dressing can be stored in a canning jar in the refrigerator for a week or so. Give the jar a shake before serving. Yields 1 cup ½ cup balsamic vinegar ¼ cup onion, chopped (1 small onion) 1 Tbsp soy sauce 3 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp sugar 2 cloves garlic, minced ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil Purée the vinegar, onion, soy sauce, honey, sugar, garlic and red pepper flakes in a blender on high. Gradually add the olive oil. Continue puréeing until thick, about 2 minutes.
Tip: Prepare the dressings at least a few hours before serving to let the flavors marinate. Shake well before using and store in the refrigerator. The fresh flavor and absence of preservatives make it best to whip up only the amount that’s needed.
Maple Syrup-Marinated Wild Salmon
Preparing fish is often as much about the marinade as the quality of the catch. Look for certification by the Marine Stewardship Council (msc.org) and use the regional sustainable seafood pocket guides from the Monterey Bay Aquarium (MontereyBayAquarium.org; search Seafood Watch) and Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org/seafood). Yields 4 servings 2 lbs boneless wild Alaskan salmon fillet 2 Tbsp maple syrup ½ cup fresh-squeezed orange juice ½ cup bourbon ½ cup soy sauce 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated 1 Tbsp brown sugar 3 Tbsp canola oil 3 Tbsp green onions, finely chopped ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper ½ fresh lemon, thinly sliced (optional) ½ medium yellow onion, ¼-inch sliced (optional) Combine maple syrup, orange juice, bourbon, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger root, brown sugar and oil in a bowl. Sprinkle salt and mash and blend the mixture with a fork to release flavors. Place salmon fillets skin-side up in a glass cake pan. Pour marinade mixture over salmon fillets and let sit covered in the refrigerator for 8 hours. To broil in the oven, pour ½ cup marinade on a foil-lined jellyroll pan. Place the fish skin-side down on the foil and pour about 1 cup marinade over it. Add
sliced lemon and onions on top. Broil fish at medium heat (450 degrees) for about 15 minutes, watching carefully to avoid overcooking. Baste occasionally with remaining marinade. For outdoor grilling, heat the grill to medium before grilling individual salmon fillets, skin-side down. Depending on their thickness, cook the fillets 15 to 20 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. When the bottom sides are done, turn fillets over and grill the topsides for five additional minutes.
Oven-Roasted Potatoes
This healthier alternative to hash browns, made with olive oil, makes a nice side for breakfast or a comfort starch for dinner (just not on the same day).
1 tsp canola oil 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed 2 Tbsp green onion, chopped 2 Tbsp celery, chopped 2 Tbsp hard granular cheese, grated (Parmesan) ¼ cup breadcrumbs ¼ cup butter (½ stick), melted ¼ tsp salt Place asparagus in a lightly oiled, 9-by-13-inch pan, in one heavy layer. Mix remaining ingredients and spoon over asparagus. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until tender. Serve on a white platter to bring out its vibrant green color. Source: Farmstead Chef cookbook, co-authored by Lisa Kivirist and John D. Ivanko (FarmsteadChef.com).
Yields 8 servings ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup butter (½ stick), melted 2 tsp beef bouillon paste (not stock) 1 tsp thyme 1 tsp marjoram 3 Tbsp dried onion flakes ¼ tsp celery seed 1 /8 tsp celery salt 2 lbs potatoes, peeled & quartered (about 8 cups) In a 9-by-13-inch baking pan, mix oil, melted butter, bouillon and herbs. Add potatoes and coat with mixture. Bake for about 30 minutes at 450 degrees, until tender and golden brown. Turn potatoes occasionally while baking.
Cheese Roasted Asparagus
Eat all the asparagus you can this summer, and hope there’s some left to save and freeze for continued mealtime oomph during the winter months. Yields 4 servings natural awakenings
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DRUG-FREE
KIDS Natural Alternatives to Common Medications by Lisa Marshall
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ant to keep your kids off drugs? The place to start is with your own medicine cabinet. So say a growing number of health practitioners that are viewing the recent proliferation of medications being targeted at kids with alarm and urging parents to turn first to common-sense home remedies or natural alternatives when possible. “We tend to be a nation of pill-takers, who turn to medication whenever we need relief for anything,” says Dana Point, California, pediatrician Robert Sears, co-author of the new book, The Portable Pediatrician. “If we can increase the use of our skills as parents in using time-tested home remedies to help our kids feel better, we can rely less on pills.” Because children metabolize drugs differently than adults do, cases of lingering side effects, like grogginess or hyperactivity, and accidental overdoses are widespread. Poison control facilities nationwide received 30,000 calls regarding pediatric acetaminophen alone in 2009, and roughly 7,000 kids end up in emergency rooms each year due to cough and cold medicine overdoses. Between 2000 and 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) received reports of 14 deaths and 74 non-fatal adverse events due to acetaminophen-dosing errors. According to a 2010 report by Orlando, Florida-based Medco Health Solutions Inc., children’s drugs now constitute the fastest growing segment of the pharmaceutical industry, with sales increasing by 10.8 percent in 2009 over 2008, and usage by children rising four times faster than for the general population during the same period. 24
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One in four children under 10 and one-third of adolescents ages 10 to 19 take at least one prescription medication on an ongoing basis, according to the report. The number of minors taking drugs for respiratory problems is up 42 percent since 2001 and those medicated for the chronic heartburn of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is up 147 percent. Market research firm IMS Health reports that spending on non-prescription pain medication for children spiked from $191 million in 2005 to $250 million in 2010. Despite three years of government warnings about potential dangers, including seizures and death, of giving over-the-counter cold and flu medications to children under age 2, 61 percent of parents do it anyway, according to a recent national poll by C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Meanwhile, new ad campaigns marketing drugs for kids continue to proliferate. Publisher Scholastic, Inc. was criticized recently for distributing coupons for the allergy medicine Children’s Claritin in its elementary school newsletter distributed to kids. “I find it very concerning,” says pediatrician Hilary McClafferty, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. “Some drug companies are exploiting parents at a vulnerable time, preying upon their feeling that they need to do something to make their child feel better immediately.” Why shouldn’t a worried, sleep-deprived mom or dad reach for a quick fix to placate a miserable little one in the
middle of the night? At times, medications are warranted, says McClafferty, particularly in the case of strep throat, which can lead to serious health problems when left unchecked. But routinely medicating away symptoms can interfere with the body’s natural protective mechanisms, McClafferty says. For instance, cough medicine can inhibit the body’s natural effort to clear mucous from the lungs, prolonging congestion; also, suppressing mild fevers with drugs can sabotage the body’s own defense against infection. “Even the conventional medical world has begun to focus on this. They are realizing many of these drugs are not very effective and they can cause toxicity in young patients,” says Matthew Baral, a doctor of naturopathy and president of the Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians. For example, according to a 2011 review in the online journal of the American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians, antihistamines can lead to sedation, constipation, drying of the mucous membranes and at higher doses, hallucinations in kids. Decongestants can increase heart rate and lead to “rebound congestion,” or a worsening of symptoms after a child stops taking the drugs. Proton-pump inhibitors, approved in 2008 for GERD in babies as young as 12 months, have been shown to boost levels of harmful intestinal bacteria and may increase fracture risk later in life, according to a study recently published in Annals of Family Medicine. In 2008, the FDA advised that cough and cold medicine should not be used for children under 2, and called on companies to revise their dosage instructions to indicate this more clearly. In March, 2011, it went so far as to pull hundreds of prescription cold medications off the market, with FDA spokesperson Deborah M. Autor telling The New York Times that, “We don’t know what’s in them, whether they work properly or how they are made.” While McClafferty is pleased with the FDA’s recent actions, she remains leery, saying, “I approach all over-the-counter medications for children with great caution and rarely recommend their use.” Here are some alternatives to try. Remember that many herbs have not been tested for safety specifically for children, so check with a health practitioner first.
Bug Bites
For quick relief, grate a potato or some leaves of plantain to create a poultice and place it on the spot of the bite. “It will draw off some of the itching and swelling,” says Baral. Don’t forget two of the lowest-tech and natural remedies, mud and ice.
Fever
“It’s important to know that most fevers don’t need to be treated unless
they are really bothering the child,” advises Sears. “Fever helps the body to fight off infection and may keep the child subdued so she can rest and recover.” He recommends tepid baths, cold cloths on the forehead, and calling the doctor if a fever persists for three days or if it rises above 103 degrees. Herbalist Brigitte Mars, author of The Country Almanac of Home Remedies, suggests diaphoretic herbs like peppermint, ginger and elderflower, in teas, which prompt perspiration and enable the body to cool down naturally.
Cough and Congestion
Apply an herbal vapor rub of menthol and tea tree oil to the bottom of the child’s feet and put their socks back on. The decongesting menthol vapor will help them to breathe and the antimicrobial properties of the tea tree oil will be absorbed through their skin, says Mars. For nasal decongestion, try irrigating the child’s nose with a cleansing neti pot. Sears recommends kid versions of herbal remedies Sinupret and Bronchipret
Diarrhea and Constipation
“Probiotics are the most extensively researched remedy we have out there for diarrhea,” says Baral. Studies in the journal Pediatrics have shown probiotics to shorten bouts of diarrhea in infants and school-age children, and prevent the onset of antibiotic-induced diarrhea in kids. Look for yogurt, powder or capsules containing 10 billion colonyforming units (CFU) of Lactobacillus GG. Sears suggests the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce and toast) to quell diarrhea. For constipation, reach for apricots, peaches, pears, plums and vitamin C.
Earache
Drop four drops of warm mullein garlic oil into the ear. Sears says the warm oil will calm the inflamed eardrum and the antibiotic in the garlic will get to work on the infection. Olive oil will work in a pinch.
Growing Pains
While it’s common for kids between the ages of 3 and 5 or 8 and 12 to complain of dull aches deep in their legs, there is little consensus about what causes them. Mars has found that it helps to supplement their diet with calcium and magnesium supplements in kid-friendly powdered form, or foods that contain these nutrients.
Heartburn
Deglycerrhizinated licorice (DGL), slippery elm and aloe all may be able to help soothe inflamed esophageal tissue, says Baral, “But they need to be given under a doctor’s supervision.” Also take a hard look at dietary triggers: Common culprits include dairy, chocolate, tomatoes and mint. natural awakenings
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Seasonal Allergies
One of the most commonly recommended natural treatments for addressing seasonal allergy symptoms is stinging nettle, believed to modulate the production of the histamine that prompts noses to run and eyes to water and has been shown to be safe in adults. It comes in tincture, tea and capsule form. Mars also likes Allergena region-specific homeopathic allergy medicines, which deliver traces of local pollen to help the body develop immunity to them. Alternately, substitute citrus juices for milk during allergy season. Vitamin C has been shown to normalize histamine levels, while dairy products can boost mucous production.
Sore Throat
Stir one teaspoon of salt into eight ounces of water and gargle. “It is antiseptic and will make the pain go away,” counsels Mars. She also recommends using the infection-fighting herb Isatis root, in tincture or capsule form. McClafferty says to try a spoonful of honey; it has antimicrobial properties and may act as a cough suppressant.
Teething Pain
Oil of clove contains a compound called eugenol that serves as a natural pain killer and antibacterial agent. Baral recommends mixing no more than one drop of clove oil with honey and rubbing it on the gums (not recommended for children under 12 months). Or, saturate a clean cloth with calming chamomile tea or wintergreen tea, a natural analgesic, and let the baby chew on it. When children suffer from common ailments, it is natural for parents to wish to soothe their suffering as quickly as possible. Just be aware that, along with the physician and the pharmacist, there is still an important role to play for “Doctor Mom.” Lisa Marshall is a freelance health writer and mother of four who lives near Boulder, CO. Connect at Lisa@LisaAnnMarshall.com.
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NATURAL APPROACHES TO ADHD by Lisa Marshall
D
rugs for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are among the hottest-selling medications today, garnering 13 percent of children’s prescription dollars, with sales soaring so quickly that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently had to declare a national shortage. That worries naturopathic doctors Matthew Baral and David Deichert. “People have gotten in the bad habit of going to medication first, without trying natural therapies,” states Baral, a pediatrics professor at the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, in Tempe, Arizona. In some cases, prescription medication is warranted, says Deichert, an ADHD specialist with Bastyr University, in Kenmore, Washington. But in most cases, he sees it as a stopgap measure as the longer-term benefits of diet and lifestyle changes slowly kick in. The two naturopaths offer these natural wellness approaches.
Minimize Food Additives
After decades of parents’ suspicions that additives like food coloring and artificial flavors may fuel behavioral changes in kids, several recent studies have bolstered such claims. A 2007 study of nearly 300 kids ages 3 to 8, published in The Lancet, found that those given drinks containing artificial dye showed significantly higher hyperactivity within a few hours. The British government now requires labels warning that children’s products containing dye may impair attention.
Consider an Elimination Diet A first-of-its-kind 2011 study, also in The Lancet, showed that when 50 kids with ADHD were put on restrictive hypoallergenic diets free of allergens like gluten and dairy for five weeks, their symptoms improved far more than those in the control group. When the eliminated foods were reintroduced, symptoms returned in 63 percent of the children. Deichert says that ADHD pa-
tients with digestive problems, recurring ear infections or skin problems—all symptoms of possible food sensitivities—are particularly good candidates for elimination diets.
Curb Screen Time and Get Moving
“Very large studies have associated TV and video game use with a worsening of ADHD symptoms,” notes Deichert. He recommends that for each half-hour of screen time a child gets outside of schoolwork, they get a half-hour of exercise.
Buy Organic
A 2010 study of 1,100 children, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that the more pesticide residue children had in their urine, the more likely they were to be diagnosed with ADHD.
Check the Iron
Studies in the Archive of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine and elsewhere have shown that children diagnosed with ADHD are more likely to have lower iron levels, and when those that are deficient take iron supplements, their symptoms either subside without medication or they react better to lower doses of medications. As a precautionary measure, Deichert suggests that kids be checked for their ferritin levels before beginning iron supplementation.
ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder for kids in the United States, with at least 4.5 million diagnoses among children under age 18, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A Michigan State University (MSU) study now reports that 20 percent are potentially misdiagnosed simply because they are the youngest—and most immature— in their class. Among kindergarteners, the youngest were 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than the oldest children in the same grade. Similarly, when that group of classmates reached the fifth and eighth grades, the youngest were twice as likely to be prescribed stimulants. MSU Economist and researcher Todd Elder puts the cost of the unnecessary medication at $320-500 million a year.
Consider Safer Supplements
Clinical research is still inconclusive, but in their practices, Deichert and Baral have both seen ADHD patients benefit from zinc, ginkgo biloba, acetyl-carnitine and omega-3 supplements. A final note: While it helps that research has been stepped up to address the epidemic of attentionrelated disorders, that doesn’t mean that all valid solutions need to carry a company trademark. natural awakenings
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naturalpet
dogs. “Daily scooping is a must,” Boswell counsels. “Fecal chloroform kills grass.”
EVERYBODY OUTSIDE! Create a Yard that Welcomes Kids, Pets and Wildlife by Sandra Murphy
From barbecues, lawn games and cooling dashes through the garden sprinkler to wondrous encounters with nature, a backyard is a place to grow summer memories enriched by active children, wildlife and family pets. But how can
PROTECT PETS FROM PREDATORS. Dangers range from poisonous frogs and snakes to birds of prey and coyotes. Six-inch-high wire mesh, dug into the ground at the bottom of a fence, will help keep out problematic reptiles and amphibians. Install a coyote roller bar at the top of the fence to foil potential animal attempts to climb up and over. Consider using canvas “sails” to prevent overhead predators from spotting small, vulnerable pets. Sails also add shade and help protect the whole family against harmful ultraviolet rays. “Evenly space lights to avoid dark spots,” suggests designer Mitch Kalamian, owner of Solena Landscape, in Huntington Beach, California. “It lets you see where your dog is during the before-bedtime outing, as well as making sure no other animals are in the yard.” GUARD AGAINST BOREDOM. Left alone in the yard for hours, a dog becomes as bored as a single kid on a teeter-totter. Barking, jumping fences and digging can lead to problems with neighbors, yard damage or pet injury, so offer him some options and ways to spend time with people. Dogs understand “mine” and “yours,” so give him an area where digging is okay. Use decking wood to create a small, but deep, animal sandbox. Hide treasures like tennis balls (nothing smaller) or eco-friendly squeaky toys for him to find.
everyone safely play and coexist in the same place? START WITH NON-TOXIC PLANTS. Avoid planting species that are poisonous to pets, including amaryllis, azalea, chrysanthemum, English ivy, oleander, sago palm, tulip bulbs and yew. Several species of lilies, including those commonly sold at Easter, are especially toxic to cats if they ingest the pollen, stem or flowers. DESIGNATE A DOG POTTY SPOT. “A designated potty area is key to a 28
West Michigan Edition
healthy backyard,” says Lisa Peterson, an American Kennel Club spokesperson. Choose a spot away from the main play area, vegetables and flowers. Lead a dog there until it becomes his habit; effusive praise helps. Matt Boswell, founder of the nationwide Pet Butler pet waste cleanup service, suggests installing a designated piddle post for easier training of male dogs. Use cedar chips to reduce odor— never cocoa mulch, which is toxic to
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Courtesy of Susan Gottlieb
Set up a tunnel that is fun to run through or hide in; it can also be a cool shady spot to rest. A large pipe made of recycled material works well; cover it with soil and plant groundcover. Kids likewise will love sharing the pit and tunnel with Fido. Felines, too, enjoy the outdoors, but keeping them from becoming predators or prey requires a bit of planning. Susan Gottlieb, owner of G2 Gallery, who donates all gallery proceeds to environmental causes, replaced the exotic plants in her yard with native species. So her cats can enjoy the garden safely, she built an open-air cat run, composed of rubber-matted wood
“Creating a bird-friendly yard is a great way to bring the family together outdoors. Birds can add a tremendous amount of life and beauty to our surroundings, whether it’s a group of hummingbirds hovering around a feeder, a robin splashing in a bird bath or a black phoebe perched on the fence.” ~ Graham Chisholm, executive director, Audubon California
If “Let’s eat out!” at your house translates into “Fire up the grill,” be sure it is stabilized on a firm surface, so that speeding kids and curious canines can’t upend the grill and spill the hot coals along with the turkey dogs. planks enclosed in a wire mesh tunnel. Ground-level playpens invite games and snoozes. Viewing platforms wind up to the roof for safe sunbathing on cool days and birdwatching without harm to songbirds. The National Wildlife Federation has designated her Beverly Hills garden as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat. “A backyard is not a babysitter,” remarks Cheryl Smith, author of Dog Friendly Gardens, Garden Friendly Dogs. “Find a livable solution. It’s easier than getting rid of the problem.”
bird season. Children can help to attract these fun visitors by keeping the bath and feeders full. FISH CAN COEXIST. Surround a pond with greenery to shade the fish. Strategic plantings also may help camouflage a koi pond from raccoons, opossums and birds of prey. “Opossums won’t dive in, but can grab a fish that gets too close to the surface or the pond’s edge,” notes Aaron Burchett, of the Pond Market, in St. Louis, Missouri. “A depth of three feet is enough to keep fish safe from raccoons. Make a cave in the side or bottom and build a rock overhang, so the fish can hide.” When outside temperatures dip below freezing, use a pond heater to maintain an opening should ice form. This both lets oxygen in and lets gases from decomposing plants and animal waste escape while the fish hibernate. Setting up a well-cleaned, bi- or tri-level water fountain for kids and dogs to drink from makes a nice water feature, as well. Keep in mind that a people- and animal-friendly yard is a work in progress, so this summer’s plans can continue to build. Sandra Murphy is a freelance writer based in St. Louis, MO. Connect at StLouisFreelanceWriter@mindspring. com.
Helpful Websites Butterfly attractors: TheGardenHelper.com/ butterflyflowers.html Hummingbird attractors: Hummingbirds.net/attract.html Pond and fish facts: PondMarket.com
Courtesy of Audubon California
INVITE WILDLIFE. Butterflies look for specific species of flowers and require a protected place to rest. A birdbath and fresh seed will attract birds and squirrels. Hummingbirds like hanging sugar-water feeders, which should be filled daily during the local humming-
Plants hazardous to dogs: ansci.cornell.edu/plants/dogs/ index.html Poison control center: aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control; emergency helpline 888-426-4435
natural awakenings
August 2011
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Cool Pets
SURVIVING THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER Best Tips for Caring for Cats and Canines by C.J. Puotinen
Make the most of summer by enjoying relaxing time with favorite four-legged friends while staying aware of pets’ special needs. These simple precautions will keep furry companions comfortable and healthy.
Start with drinking water. The more active your dog or cat, the more it needs extra water, preferably chemical-free spring or filtered water. It can be provided in a bowl, pet water dispenser or travel canteen. Some natural foods markets sell electrolyte-enhanced drinks for canine athletes and pets recovering from illness or dehydration. Be sure to change your pet’s water daily, keep water dispensers clean and encourage animals to drink more often when the mercury soars. One reason hot weather is hard on pets is because they can’t cool themselves by perspiring through the skin the way humans do. Their only sweat glands are on their paw pads and noses. High humidity interferes with the cooling effects of panting. Veterinarians advise against leaving pets outdoors in hot, humid weather (especially those that are very young or old, weak or ill, overweight or breeds with snub noses, such as Pekingese, pugs and bulldogs). To avoid heat-related problems, exercise in the early morning or evening, substitute gentle walks for hard runs and stop whenever the dog seems tired or is
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panting heavily. Swimming or splashing in a lake, river, ocean or backyard wading pool can help keep a dog cool. Be sure to rinse the dog’s coat after a dip in a chemically treated pool or saltwater. Never leave a pet in a parked car on a sunny day or during hot weather— even with the windows open—even for a few minutes. Help prevent heat stress or heat stroke at all times by using common sense: Avoid overexertion and keep the animal cool and well watered. If your dog pants heavily, fails to respond, develops a rapid heartbeat or bright red tongue, vomits, looks anxious or feels hot to the touch, lower the animal’s temperature by applying towels soaked in cool water to the abdomen, lower legs, neck and hairless areas. Then, get it to a veterinarian immediately. Emergency treatment with intravenous fluids and medication to prevent or reverse brain damage may save the dog’s life. In addition to keeping pets indoors in air-conditioned space on hot, humid days, offer them a frozen, water-filled plastic container to help keep them cool. Some dogs love to sleep on them this time of year, even using them as pillows. While most professional groomers and veterinarians recommend against shaving dogs and cats down to their bare skin, a short summer trim can help longhaired pets avoid problems associated with heat-trapping matted hair and tangles. Daily brushing or combing will help a cat or dog feel comfortable—and look great—in any weather.
Repelling Pests
Insect bites and stings can interfere with an animal’s good times. If a honeybee (which leaves its stinger behind) attacks a pet, gently flick the stinger away with a fingernail or use tweezers to remove it. Don’t squeeze or press the stinger, which can release more venom. Next, rinse the stung area with cider vinegar or strongly brewed chamomile tea. A single drop of full-strength or diluted essential oil of chamomile or tea tree oil can be safely applied to a bite or sting on most adult dogs (always avoid the eye area). But this disinfecting treatment cannot be used on cats, very small dogs or young puppies. Whenever fleas are a problem, combing with a flea comb removes shed-
ding hair, along with these parasites and their eggs. Also, spray the animal and pet bedding with natural products containing neem (gentle to pets, but toxic to parasites) to prevent infestations. Neem can help keep a dog free from fleas, ticks, lice, mites, flies and mosquitoes.
Other Seasonal Concerns
Light-haired dogs and cats can get sunburned if exposed to too much midday sun. A safe-rated sunblock can be applied to the tips of the ears and the nose, plus the skin around the animal’s lips, to help prevent sunburn, pain and peeling. Many breeds can develop ear infections during summer months, especially large-eared ones like Labradors and golden retrievers that love the water. Rinse or clean the dog’s ears with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. This lowers the ear’s pH, making it less hospitable to Malassezia yeast cells, the culprit behind most canine ear infections. Or use an herbal ear oil or ear treatment to keep a pet’s ears clean and healthy. To treat ear infections and other allergy symptoms from the inside out, add a probiotic supplement to a dog’s food. Many probiotics are labeled for veterinary use, but any human probiotic can be adapted for pets. Determine an approximate dose by dividing your pet’s weight in pounds by 100. For example, a 50-pound dog would take half the label’s recommended dose, while a 10-pound cat or rabbit would get one-tenth. Because probiotics are considered safe and there is no toxic dose, larger amounts can be well tolerated. Digestive enzymes added to a pet’s food help strengthen the immune system by improving digestion and the assimilation of nutrients.
injuries, soreness or joint pain with warmth. Homeopathic arnica preparations can help reduce pain and swelling. Athletic dogs enjoy long hikes, lengthy swims and everything else that summer has to offer. But as dogs age or recover from injuries, their joints can hurt or their body alignment can be altered. Systemic oral enzyme supplements and anti-inflammatory herbs, including boswellia, devil’s claw, feverfew and yucca can help older dogs remain active, and reduce the risk of injury in all dogs. Look for products labeled for pet use or adjust the label dose of human supplements based on the pet’s weight. Consult a veterinarian as needed. Looking forward, the rapid growth of canine sports is making rehabilitation medicine a new veterinary specialty. Complementary therapies such as acupressure, acupuncture, massage, chiropractic adjustments and physical therapy all can help a pet feel especially well cared for. C.J. Puotinen is the author of Natural Relief from Aches and Pains, The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care and Natural Remedies for Dogs and Cats.
Year-Round Exercise
The better shape you and your pet are in, the more you’ll both enjoy summer—or any season. Like their human companions, dogs and cats benefit from a healthy diet and active exercise that is increased gradually to prevent possible injury. Couch potato dogs need regular exercise, not just weekend workouts, and every exercise session should begin with a gradual warm-up and end with a gradual cool-down. If a dog chooses to overdo it, treat any resulting new, acute injuries with cold, and treat old, chronic natural awakenings
August 2011
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communityspotlight
Tricia Gosling by Julie Hurley
A
fter years of working in sales, Tricia Gosling, a colon hydrotherapist and biofeedback practitioner, realized that in order for there to be a significant change among us as to how we view our health, there needs to be a dramatic shift in how Western medicine and holistic medicine approach each other. “After 17 years in pharmaceutical sales, I stopped functioning in that world. I lost the enthusiasm for the competition and stopped being good at what I was very good at. I realized that for there to be great change, there needs to be collaboration,” said Gosling. “I want my life and work to be about collaboration. I want to stretch out my hand and say, ‘How can we serve the highest good?’” Gosling asserts that whether you believe in alternative therapies or not, in recent years, abundant evidence is being discovered regarding the premise that our bodies are more toxic than ever before. “Because of that, authorities like Leo Galland, M.D. and Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D. are lining up with the evidence, and I agree with them that detoxification is the key to longevity,” Gosling said. Since 1995, Gosling has reached out that hand by working to detox her fellow humans via colon hydrotherapy, or colonics, using a machine called a LIBBE (pronounced like the name “Libby”) Device. “The LIBBE Device allows for a very discreet and comfortable method of colon hydrotherapy,” said Gosling. For those first-timers, getting past the “ick” factor is almost a non-issue while visiting Gosling and LIBBE. “We use lavender oil to breathe in and help the body relax during the consultation time in which we discuss their health history and be sure there are no contraindications or concerns,” said Gosling. “I explain how to place the pencil-sized tube and make sure they are comfortable before giving them some privacy. There are many options offered to them making the session comfortable, productive, private, therapeutic, and safe. This is a very solid and comfortable place to be.” As the diets and the toxic load of Americans’ lifestyles continue to be a concern, there is more awareness that cleansing without colon hydrotherapy is not a complete approach to wellness. “My teachers, including Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman, a leader in the field of detoxification, have encouraged us to have clients do two to four cleanses a year with colon hydrotherapy, and that is due to the incredible load our bodies are dealing with due to numerous influences, including increased chemicals and environmental toxins,” Gosling said. Another key person in the field who has influenced others, including Gosling, is Dr. Norman Walker, who lived to be 99, and promoted nutritional wellness. He wrote: “Every organ, gland and cell in the body is affected by the condition of the colon.” He also believed that a diet heavy in saturated fats leaves a residue in the colon and intestines. “In my experience, the diet that generally works best is filled with fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and legumes,” said Gosling. “Many of us are not there yet and we all have to find the right combination that works best for us individually.” According to Walker, the number one affliction underlying almost every ailment is constipation. In other words, it is “the primary cause of nearly every disturbance of the human system.” This is because the blood vessels lining the colon collect nutrients missed by the small intestine. In his book, Pure and Simple Natural Weight Control, Walker explained, “If the feces in the colon have putrefied and fermented, any nutritional elements present in it would pass into the bloodstream as polluted products. What would otherwise be nutritional instead generates toxemia, a condition in which the blood contains poisonous products which are produced by the growth of pathogenic or disease-producing bacteria.” Pimples can be an indication of the presence of toxemia. Walker maintained that the Standard American Diet (SAD) causes the colon to be filled with toxins that strain the eliminative channels and ultimately, the immune system. 34
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Given the poor diets of many people, it’s not surprising that the number one complaint that Gosling hears is an underactive bowel. In addition to colon hydrotherapy, Gosling has been a quantum biofeedback practitioner since 2002. “These two practices go hand-in-hand,” said Gosling. “The underactive bowel is helped by a ‘waking up’ of the frequencies given through the EPFX, assisting the person in better releases in colon hydrotherapy.” EPFX (Electro Physiological Frequency Xrroid) is a state-of-the-art potential biofeedback system that is used to identify and reduce stress. It involves the client sitting in a relaxing position while vinyl strips, which have electrical “poles” inside of them, are placed at the ankles the hands and forehead. These pieces are attached to a computer, which analyzes at one one-hundredth of a second the results of the 64 million pieces of information downloaded from the client. Then frequencies in the body that are off balance can be corrected and, subsequently, since this is read as a lessening of stress on the body, mind and spirit, related ills, pain, stress or chronic conditions may begin to dissipate as the body works to heal itself. Gosling says that the higher frequency we have the better. “In quantum biofeedback, the equipment is the frequency counter. It is able to read the body and see where people need help or balance. It’s geared to peel off some stress so that your body can return to homeostasis.” Gosling never diagnoses or prescribes. “That’s not me at all,” she said. “Colon hydrotherapy and quantum biofeedback are both about helping the body return to more awareness and balance, about letting go of what you don’t need anymore. Stress precedes the disease, and this is all about giving people another pattern for their body,” said Gosling. Gosling has recently moved into the offices of Keith Sarver of the Natural Health & Healing Center, located at 723 Kenmoor, SE, Grand Rapids, MI. 49546, and you can reach her at 616-481-9074. See her ad pages 46 & 47. She is also available to give presentations on colon health or on stress reduction to church groups or other interested parties. A married mother of two young children, Julie Hurley is a freelance writer with a strong interest in natural health and is the Director of Public Relations at Principia Media: www.principiamedia.com. Visit her personal blog at www.ourlunchbox.blogspot.com.
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actionalert Opinion Editorial
Dietary Supplement Industry at Risk by Jonathan Emord, Esquire
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is poised to remove 20 to 30 percent of existing food supplement companies from the market, force a rise in prices and eliminate the availability of most, if not all, herbal supplements.
T
he most basic of human rights is that of selfgovernment over our own bodies, especially regarding individual choice over what nutrients to ingest and treatments to receive to sustain optimal health. Today, federal and state regulatory agencies constrict those rights by limiting our choices. Those restrictions on freedom are destined to continue. Recent examples include state dietitian licensing bills, global censorship of health information, and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA; S. 510/HR 2751). Dietitian licensing bills designate those licensed by the American Dietetic Association as nutritionists and the sole dispensers of nutritional advice and recommendations. Global censorship of nutrient-related disease treatment information by all Western governments that regulate drugs works to preserve a monopoly on therapeutic claims for drug companies. The Food Safety Modernization Act requires that all companies that make food and dietary supplements be
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registered with the federal government for the first time, deprives those companies of access to the courts in favor of administrative tribunals, and forces those companies to pay for mandatory federal investigations. With passage of FSMA, which made every food and dietary supplement company operating in the United States subject to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensing, the regulators’ decades-old dream of ridding the market of supplements and leaving the field to FDA-approved drugs is closer to realization than ever before. The FSMA comes atop aggressive FDA implementation of new and costly current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) regulations, positioning the agency to regulate every aspect of supplement production. Will the public awaken to the threat and compel the FDA to back down, or will the agency succeed in eliminating safe supplement products, to the detriment of the consuming public?
Call for Action
One current petition fight-
all claims associating a nutrient with a ing to protect natural health- disease, even provPublic outcry has ably true claims) helped stem FDA moves to eliminate care options challenges the keeps consumers in the dark. dietary supplements from the market on Federal Trade Commission’s Unfettered by a groundswell dozens of occasions in the past, but has illegal move to restrict health- of public opposition, the FDA is failed to reach a related claims. Sign the proceeding at an fever pitch in reaccelerated pace in sponse to the latest round of regulatory petition at anh-USA.or g: inspecting facilities, issuing citations efforts. Perhaps that is because the most S e a r ch F T C , t h e n o p e n and ultimately driving supplement recent efforts have arisen under a more April 26, 2011 post and click manufacturers out of business. Compalatable public interest justification: This Link at bottom of page. panies incapable of affording the associThe argument that ated costs have no consumers must choice but to dissolve. To reverse this be protected from potentially unsafe course, consumers must contact their products by permitting the FDA to run elected representatives in congress and companies it thinks may threaten public demand an immediate repeal of both health out of existence. FSMA and GMP regulations. Then, vote The FDA’s current approach, using wisely in the 2012 elections to defeat allegations of adulteration, contaminacandidates that voted in favor of limittion and misbranding—combined with ing our freedoms in these areas. cessation of distribution and recall of unapproved supplements—appears to Worldwide Trend be far more acceptable to the public Many governments around the world than the argument that supplements in currently prohibit essential health general should be removed from the claims backed by credible scientific market. It seems that the lesson FDA evidence. For example, claims that regulators have slowly learned is that people generally appear to be willing to glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate permit regulatory abuses in the name of may eliminate symptoms of osteoarthritis are forbidden in Europe, as well public safety. Moreover, under the Food Drug and as in Australia, Canada and the United States. Cosmetic Act (FDCA), as interpreted by Groups have formed to protest the federal courts, any promotion that such censorship and restrictions on acassociates a dietary supplement with a cess to dietary supplement ingredients. disease treatment claim is prohibited. For a global view, consult information That is so even if the claim is demonstraprovided by the Alliance for Natural bly true. Censoring information conHealth, which is active in Europe and cerning the potential benefit of dietary America. In the United States, take acingredients shrouds the market in ignotion via the Alliance for Natural Health rance, depriving consumers of helpful, USA, Citizens for Health, Freedom of life-extending or life-saving information. Health Foundation, The Health KeepJust one example is the FDA’s censorers Alliance and National Health ship of the association established in Freedom Action. peer-reviewed scientific literature (some The way back to liberty lies not 6,000 articles) between Vitamin D and only in allowing the marketing of all a reduction in the risk of certain kinds dietary ingredients that are being used of cancer. All Americans could experiwithout serious adverse effects, but also ence a reduction in cancer risk were that in stripping countries of the power to association made known at the point of censor nutrient-related disease treatsale, but FDA’s prior restraint (its ban on
ment information. When well-informed consumers make dietary ingredient choices that minimize disease risk and maximize longevity, their improved health reduces their dependence on costly drug therapies which too often carry unwanted side effects. Imagine a world in which fruits and vegetables, as well as dietary supplements, could lawfully be accompanied by labels summarizing the dietary ingredients present, their effects and their potential for protecting against or fighting disease. In such a world, consumers would be truly active, engaged participants in their own health care. Jonathan W. Emord is a constitutional and administrative lawyer in Washington, D.C. The author of The Rise of Tyranny and Global Censorship of Health Information, he has defeated the FDA in federal court eight times. Visit Emord.org.
TAKE ACTION HERE Check these websites regularly to keep abreast of pending state legislation and to sign helpful petitions. Elected Officials, usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml Alliance for Natural Health USA, anh-usa.org Citizens for Health, Citizens.org Freedom of Health Foundation, thefhf.org The Health Keepers Alliance, HealthKeepers.net National Health Freedom Action, NationalHealthFreedom.org
natural awakenings
August 2011
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healthykids
CONNECTING KIDS TO
COMMUNITY by Helen Coronato
T
his September, before scheduling after-school soccer practice or cheerleading, why not consider committing to a different kind of extracurricular activity: community outreach. Every community has specific needs, and stepping in to help fill those needs as a family brings extended benefits. From strengthening family bonds and making memories to being a role model for friends and neighbors, connecting kids with their own community proves a winning combination. By giving back to community, local organizations get the assistance they need, while children benefit personally and scholastically from a family team-building experience. Research from the Harvard Family Research Project shows a direct link between such parental involvement and a student’s success in school. Community outreach can be a formal affair, thanks to the efforts and organization of national programs, or it can be a hometown, do-it-yourself project, based on experience and ingenuity. Whichever route we choose, our efforts and energy are a precious and appreciated resource.
Established Organizations Coming up with ideas for how to enhance our local community can be daunting for some. Fortunately, many local and national organizations have programs in place that we 38
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can readily join. These are a great place to start: 1-800-Volunteer – 1-800-Volunteer.org Search the nation’s largest database of volunteer opportunities, events and organizations by location or interest. More than 117,000 volunteers are registered with the service nationwide. Special Olympics – SpecialOlympics.org Help people with intellectual disabilities. More than 30 recognized athletes and 750,000 volunteers participate in the 227 Special Olympics programs worldwide. Habitat for Humanity – HabitatForHumanity.org Habitat has built more than 300,000 houses around the world, providing safe housing for 1.5 million people. Builders must be older than 16. Other youngsters can contribute by making “Welcome Home” cards or toolboxes for the new homeowners. Red Cross – RedCross.org Each year, the Red Cross responds to more than 70,000 disasters, including as many as 150 home fires, every day. Project Smile – ProjectSmile.org This nonprofit organization collects like-new stuffed animals for firefighters and police to distribute to children experienc-
ing a traumatic time in their lives. Meals on Wheels – MOWaa.org This national network provides homedelivered meal services across the country. According to the organization, one out of nine seniors in America faces the threat of hunger, and at least four out of 10 local Meals on Wheels programs have seniors on a waiting list for the service.
Do-It-Yourself Projects Also consider giving some common group activities a community-minded twist. Here’s a new kind of book club. – Book club members can open up enrollment to invite mothers, daughters and grandmothers to join. Or, organize a community book club at a local senior center and bring together different generations of readers to share stories and companionship. Time to clean out the closet and toy chest? – Gather up outgrown toys and clothes and donate items to a local women’s shelter. Many mothers are forced to leave everything behind, arriving at shelters with only the clothes on their back. Donations can provide a welcome and comforting item or a change of clothes. Repurpose old beach towels. – Collect worn beach towels and bedding and deliver them to veterinarians and animal shelters, where they are needed to comfort and care for pets. Ideas for do-it-yourself community projects are infinite. Many more than what are listed here are outlined at GreenGuideForKids.blogspot.com. Just because something good hasn’t been done before doesn’t mean it can’t be done right now. When our intention is to help others, there really is no wrong choice. Each of us, when we keep our eyes open for opportunity, can become the change we want to see. Helen Coronato is a mother, author, speaker and consultant. Her latest book, Eco-Friendly Families, is packed with concrete advice, useful tips and fun strategies. Visit HelenCoronato.com. natural awakenings
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gotten out of whack due to inattention to proper posture. He says that regular yoga practice often reduces both the frequency and intensity of migraines.
HEADACHE
REMEDIES NATURAL WAYS TO SPELL RELIEF by Dr. Lauri Grossman
H
eadaches can happen at any time. They can interfere with work, school, family time or the simple enjoyment of a sunny day, but anyone tired of this vexing health problem is far from alone. According to the Headache Institute that is affiliated with St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center and Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, more people complain about headaches than any other medical ailment. Headaches present themselves in a variety of ways. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes, for example, describes vascular migraines, tension headaches and cluster headaches. The institute cautions that headaches can serve as warning signals of problems that require professional attention. However, when serious conditions have been ruled out, conscientious preventive treatment can be more helpful than the all-too-common habit of taking multiple doses of aspirin or other tablets. Dr. Roger Morrison, of the Hahnemann College of Homeopathy, further reports that there is good clinical evidence that, for most headaches, taking a single tablet of headache medicine such as aspirin or Tylenol can be just as effective as two or more pills. He also states that such over-the-counter medications may be followed by rebound headaches in a never-ending cycle. So, where can we get swift relief 40
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that also can improve our health in the long run? Complementary Treatments: University Health Services at the University of California, in Berkeley, recommends acupuncture and manipulative treatments by a qualified chiropractor, osteopath or massage therapist as an alternative. These treatments help to release stress, balance the body’s energy and regulate disturbances in the nervous system, which can all be contributing factors to headaches. Regular Exercise: The National Headache Foundation recommends regular exercise, such as swimming or vigorous walking, preceded by a good warm-up and followed with ample hydration to stave off head pain. A routine of 20 to 40 minutes of aerobic exercise, three or more times a week, helps to both relieve stress and balance internal physiology. Good Posture: Pay attention to any tendency to bend over a computer or desk for long periods. Baxter Bell, a medical doctor from Northern California, recommends using yoga to help correct alignment that has
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Proper Diet: It’s wise to avoid food additives and to eat meals consisting of whole foods. Eating high-fiber foods and drinking a glass of water every two hours lessens the chance of headache caused by a buildup of toxins in the system. It’s also generally accepted that eating smaller portions throughout the day instead of large meals helps to keep blood sugar steady. Food allergies are a known culprit behind chronic headaches. In one study published in the medical journal, The Lancet, more than 90 percent of patients reported relief from migraine symptoms after eliminating allergenic substances from their diet. The most common offenders are foods with additives or nitrates, red wine, packaged lunch meats, MSG, hard cheeses, chocolate, citrus fruit, tomatoes, eggplant, fried foods and foods that
are aged, fermented, or marinated with vinegar. Natural Supplements: Leading natural health specialists James Balch, a physician, and Mark Stengler, a doctor of naturopathy, agree in recommending two supplements to counter headaches. n Magnesium to lessen migraines and prevent tension headaches, at the rate of 200 milligrams (mg) three times a day. One study of 81 people mentioned in Stengler and Balch’s book, Prescription for Natural Cures, showed that magnesium alone can reduce the frequency of migraines by as much as 41 percent.
Third Coast Yoga Studio Announces
Level I Hatha Yoga Teacher Training at the Lakeshore Saturdays
Fall 2011
200-hour Yoga Alliance approved
Lead instructor:
Gretchen Cline, Ph.D., E-RYT 500
(616) 844-9074 Spring Lake, MI 49456
$150 discount if registered by JULY 1 5 , 2 0 1 1 For details & application: w w w.t hirdcoast yoga.com
n Riboflavin to prevent migraines, consuming 400 mg every day for at least three months. A second study in their book reported that at this amount, the number of migraine attacks among the 49 participants decreased by 67 percent, with severity reduced by 68 percent. Applied Homeopathy: Homeopathy can be helpful in treating headaches, especially if individual symptoms are clear (for example, if headaches always occur on the right side at 3 p.m.). Two studies have independently demonstrated homeopathy’s beneficial effects in headache relief, published in the British Homeopathic Journal and Journal of Liga Medicorum Homoeopathica Internationalis; these provide the basis for Homeopathic Educational Services’ guidance at Homeopathic.com. Individuals may pick the relevant remedy that best matches their symptoms and take a 30C potency (available in most health food stores) dosage four times a day for up to a week. Stop taking the remedy upon improvement, but begin again if symptoms return and consult with a physician. Lauri Grossman, a doctor of chiropractic and certified classical homeopath, practices homeopathy in Manhattan. She also serves as chair of the American Medical College of Homeopathy’s department of humanism, in Phoenix, AZ. Learn more at amcofh.org and HomeopathyCafe.com. natural awakenings
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calendarofevents Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. All Calendar events must be submitted online by the 15th of the month prior to publication.
Monday, August 1 Puppet Making Workshop 2: Containers - 10:3011:30 am. Learn to make a puppet out of a plastic container and other items you’d find around your house. Then stay and practice, bringing a story or song to life! Ideal for preschoolers on up! Free. Hopscotch Children’s Store. Grand Rapids. 616233-4008. events@hopscotchstore.com.
Tuesday, August 2 Restoring Balance Workshop- 8:00-9:00 am. Learn how to balance your work life with your personal life and how to restore balance in your health. Breakfast is provided. Free. ChiroHealth. Rockford. Please RSVP to Michelle at 616-648-5291.
Thursday, August 4 Free Qi-Gong Classes- 6:00pm. Qigong is the Mandarin Chinese term used to describe various Chinese systems of physical and mental training for health, martial arts and self-enlightenment. This free class teaches light breathing and stretching exercises to promote health and relaxation. Natural Health Improvement Center. Grandville. 616-301-0808. What’s For Dinner? – 6:30pm. How many people in the world have the luxury of asking that question? Join us for a discussion on proper nutrition and healthier lifestyles. Dale Tamminga, N.D. Call 616-942-7907 for reservations.
Friday, August 5 Yoga Spa Party/Girls’ Night Out- 7:00-9:00 pm. Restorative Yoga and Skin Care by Sense, a chemical-free skin care line. Enjoy a relaxing evening of creating beauty from the inside out and the outside in. Class size is limited. $15. Muskegon Yoga Center. Muskegon. Registration is required at MuskegonYoga.com.
Saturday, August 6 Intuitive Fair- 10:00 am-6:00 pm. Come and join us for tarot, angel, palm, and intuitive readings. Also, we will have many sales on stones, jewelry, books etc. throughout the day. Come in and have fun. Open Minds. Rockford. 616-863-8868. ALL4ONE Festival- 12:00-6:00 pm. Will highlight yoga, healthy living, local retailers/artists/crafters, and non-profit organizations. Free with a suggested donation of $5. Proceeds go to the West Michigan Humane Society. East Grand Rapids High School Track at 2211 Lakeside Dr. SE. Contact Michele Fife of Seva Yoga, 616-901-7229.
Monday, August 8 Family Camp- 8/8 – 8/11. Traditional summer camp (swimming, sports and hiking) with a focus on traditional folk arts. Activities include: wet & needle felting, bread baking, soap making, watercolor painting, weaving & more. No matter what the size and arrangement of your family, you are welcome at Circle Pines. For info call 269-623-5555.
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WMSBF Hosts 6th Annual Scholarship Golf Outing- 8:00am: Scramble format. 18 holes of golf, lunch, door prizes and awards, networking and good green fun. $75.00. Golfer sign-up and sponsorship forms and other details can be found at www.wmsbf. org. Wallinwood Golf Club in Jenison. Silly Song Sing Along w/ Mr. Pickle Head!- 10:3011:30 am. Join us for some silly, fun sing along songs that evoke lots of laughter and giggles. Join us for a live musical adventure in song and silliness! Free. Hop Scotch Children’s Store. Grand Rapids. 616-233-4008. events@hopscotchstore.com. Family Yoga-10:45 am-12:15 pm. Come celebrate the joy of yoga with Marti DeLong. Designed for adults with children from 4 to 12 years. Focus on fun, breathing practices, sing-song rhymes & alternating quiet and active movements. $12 adults, $10 children. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. expressionsofgraceyoga.com.
Wednesday, August 10 Family Yoga-10:45 am-12:15 pm. Come celebrate the joy of yoga with Marti DeLong. Designed for adults with children from 4 to 12 years. Focus on fun, breathing practices, sing-song rhymes & alternating quiet and active movements. $12 adults, $10 children. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. expressionsofgraceyoga.com. Creating a Healthy Home- 7:00-8:00 pm. Small changes can make a significant difference in the health of your home and the lives of your family. Come learn what you can do now. $10. Muskegon Yoga Center. Muskegon. Please register at MuskegonYoga.com.
Thursday, August 11 Free Relaxation Response for Beginners- 6:007:15 pm. Learn simple breath and mental awareness techniques to de-stress your nerve system, improve immune system function, balance mind & emotions; support your healing process. Space limited. Preregistration required. Dr. Ragini Pierce. Muskegon. 231-670-0179. angeltouchfamilychiropractic.com. Free Volunteer Training- 6:30 pm. MomsBloom is accepting new volunteers! If you enjoy working with new mothers and babies, this opportunity is for you! Volunteers offer help to families with a newborn. Grand Rapids. Please contact Angie for more info at angie@momsbloom.org or 616-828-1021.
Friday, August 12 Anusara Yoga Workshop: “Potpourri Class: Loving Your Life”- 7:00-9:00 pm Come experience this exhilaration with a leader in the Anusara Yoga community, Betsey Downing. $35 for Friday evening, $185 for entire workshop. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. expressionsofgraceyoga.com
pm. $50. Saturday afternoon will be “Deep Listening in Hip Openers & Seated Poses.” 2:30-4:30 pm. $35. (The entire workshop is available from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, for $185.) Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616361-8580. expressionsofgraceyoga.com Essential Oil Basic Training I- 10:00 am-12:00 pm & II 1:00 pm-3:00 pm. Learn basics of the benefits and uses of Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils. $10 per training with advanced registration or $20 at the door. Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. To pre-register call or email Jodi at 616-443-4225 or heavenlyhealings@yahoo.com.
Sunday, August 14 Anusara Yoga Workshop: “Handstand: from Baby Steps to Breakthroughs, Honor Your Process”- 9:30 am-12:30 pm. $50. Sunday afternoon will be “Cultivate Your Inner Sanctuary: Restoratives, Pranayama, and Meditation.” 2:30-4:30 pm. $35. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. expressionsofgraceyoga.com. Reiki I & II class- 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Become attuned and learn how to give treatment to self and others. $225 includes manual and the $50 deposit required to register. Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. Call or email Jodi at 616-443-4225 or heavenlyhealings@yahoo.com.
Monday, August 15 Ideal Protein Medical Weight Loss WorkshopLearn how to safely and effectively lose 3-7 pounds per week, promote energy, and restore pancreatic health. FREE! ChiroHealth. Rockford. Please RSVP at 616-863-9482. Story Time feat. Books by Michigan Authors10:30-11:30 am. We’ll be reading a number of great stories from a variety of great authors from our great state of Michigan! These stories appeal to preschoolers through early elementary school kiddos. Free! Hopscotch Children’s Store. Grand Rapids. 616233-4008. events@hopscotchstore.com.
Tuesday, August 16 Trigger Point Massage- 6:00 pm. Workshop participants will learn what a trigger point is, what causes them, how to prevent them, how to get rid of them. The Foundation for Wellness Professionals. Grand Rapids. Seating is limited to the first 30 callers. Make your reservations today by calling 616-447-9888.
Wednesday, August 17 Have Your 1st Matrix Energetics Experience6:00-7:30pm. With Dr. Steve Szatkowski, D.C., C.C.S.P., and Barb Hermanson. Office is located at 3427 Farr Road in Fruitport. Contact us to reserve a seat: drsteve@fruitportchiropractic.com or call 231-865-6545.
Saturday, August 13
Not Your Average Speaker Series-Reimagining Grand Rapids- 7:00 pm, doors open 5:30 pm. As part of Rapid Growth Media’s Not Your Average Speaker Series, panelists will discuss different aspects of the new economy and how our city can be a part of it. Free. Wealthy Street Theatre. Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400. grpl.org/GRReads.
Anusara Yoga Workshop: “Back Bends: Offer Your Unique Brand of Brilliance”- 9:30 am-12:30
Thursday, August 18
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Free Patient Education Night!:Yeast Overgrowth Syndrome- 6:00 pm. Yeast Overgrowth Syndrome is a condition that affects the entire body and immune system. Symptoms include: diarrhea, depression, fatigue, headaches and difficulty concentrating. Does this sound like you? Come to this lecture and learn more! Natural Health Improvement Center. Grandville. 616-301-0808. Exploring Faith: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints- 7:00 pm. What does it mean to be a Mormon? In this discussion, learn about LDS history, beliefs, missionary work, strong family bonds, and faith in God. Free. Main Library. Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400. grpl.org/GRReads.
Friday, August 19 Hula Hoop Workshop- 6:00-7:00 pm. or 7:15-8:15 pm. Learn the basics of hooping, get a great workout and add some fabulous tricks to your routine! Beginning or experienced hoopers welcome, bring a friend! With Rebecca Urick. $15 includes hoop rental. Expressions of Grace Yoga. Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. expressionsofgraceyoga.com
Saturday, August 20 Free Relaxation Response for Beginners- 10:0011:15 am. Learn simple breath and mental awareness techniques to de-stress your nerve system, improve immune system function, balance mind & emotions; support your healing process. Space limited. Pre-registration required. Dr. Ragini Pierce. Muskegon. 231-670-0179. angeltouchfamilychiropractic.com. Essential Oil Training III (Raindrop)- 10:00 am12:00 pm. & IV (Emotional Clearing)- 1:00-3:00 pm. & V (Spiritual Journey Work)- 4:00-6:00 pm. Learn the benefits of these oils, and how to apply them. $25 per training and pre-registration required. Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. To pre-register call Jodi at 616-443-4225.
writing workshops, discussions, a field trip & more. For info call 269-623-5555. Hopscotch Around the World- 10:30-11:30 am. Hop Scotch is a game that has been played throughout history in almost every country of the world. Join us as we play different variations of this game from France to India to Nigeria, and more! Free. Hopscotch Children’s Store. Grand Rapids. 616233-4008. events@hopscotchstore.com. Upledger CranioSacral Study & Support Group6:45-9:00 pm. Meets in the lower level classroom. $5. Holistic Care Approach. Grand Rapids. Facilitated by Ellen Costantino and coordinated by Jamilah Tuuk: 616-340-0543 or jamilahjf@gmail.com.
Thursday, August 25
Monday, August 29
How can I detoxify my body naturally? – 7:00pm. Tonight you will learn about several ways to naturally cleanse the body--colon cleanse, foot cleanse, hypnotherapy. One lucky participant will experience the foot cleanse. Patti Heerdia, The Therapy Center. Call 616-942-7907 for reservations.
Story Time- 10:30-11:30 am. Join us as we read and read and read aloud some more! The books we read will depend upon the ages of the audience, so come and discover some great new stories that your kids will love! Free. Hop Scotch Children’s Store. Grand Rapids. 616-233-4008, events@ hopscotchstore.com.
Informed Consent: Bioethics- 7:00 pm. Calvin College Philosophy Professor Ruth Groenhout will discuss some of the most controversial cases, from Karen Ann Quinlan to Terry Schiavo; and from Willowbrook to Tuskegee. Free. Main Library. Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400. grpl.org/GRReads.
Friday, August 26 22nd Annual Sierra Club “Sustainability” Retreat26-28th. Open to the public & Sierra Club members alike. Learn about key environmental issues, grassroots organizing skills and commune with nature. The Retreat takes place at Camp Miniwanca, nestled between Stony Lake and Lake Michigan in Shelby. Michigan Chapter of the Sierra Club at 517-484-2372.
Saturday, August 27 Getaway Weekend- Located at a peaceful retreat center near Lansing. $69.43 includes shared room lodging, delicious, home-cooked vegetarian meals Saturday lunch to Sunday lunch. Private room, services, classes, other dates available. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre. Bath. 517-641-6201. SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.
Monday, August 22
Reiki I & II class- 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Become attuned and learn how to give treatments to self and others. $225 includes manual and the $50 deposit required to register. Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. Call or email Jodi at 616-443-4225 or heavenlyhealings@yahoo.com.
Circle Pines Center Family & Adult Camps
Serying locally-sovrced, organic foods zhile teaching peace, social jvstice, enxironmental stezardship and cooperation as a zay of life. For More Information: Contact: 269.623.5555 OR www.circlepinescenter.org
Sunday, August 28 Getaway Weekend- Located at a peaceful retreat center near Lansing. $69.43 includes shared room lodging, delicious, home-cooked vegetarian meals Saturday lunch to Sunday lunch. Private room, services, classes, other dates available. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre. Bath. 517-641-6201. SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org.
Haunted Michigan- 1:30 pm. Rev. Gerald S. Hunter shares his investigations into modern ghost stories—active hauntings that continue to this day in his investigations across two peninsulas. Free. Main Library. Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400. grpl. org/GRReads.
Adult Camp- 8/22 – 8/29. There will be a variety of activities to fit various age and ability levels, and campers are encouraged to participate in the planning and leading of activities. Activities include arts, crafts, yoga, qi gong, nature walks, swimming,
Barefoot Picnic- 7:30 pm. Bring a blanket and a picnic basket if you wish and enjoy a night of great music featuring singer-song writer (and certified Yoga instructor) Jenna Mammina. Admission is $20. Satya Yoga Center. Saugatuck. 269-857-7289.
Family Folk Aru Camp: Avgwst 8-12 Advlt/Elder Camp: Avgwst 22-29
Wednesday, August 31 Breastfeeding Support Group- 12:00-1:00pm. Looking for a supportive breastfeeding community? Join this group lead by certified Lactation Consultant Laurie Vance the last Wednesday of each month. This month’s discussion topic: Working (outside the home) and Nursing -The Two CAN Go Together! Free. Hop Scotch Children’s Store. Grand Rapids. 616-233-4008. hopscotchstore.com.
S AVE T H E D ATE SEPTEMBER 20-21 Bamboo-fusion Massage Workshop - 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily. Full-body “table” class. Price per therapist: $299. Sanative Tranquility Institute of Sanative Arts. Grand Rapids. bamboo-fusion.com 616-791-0472.
S AVE T H E D ATE Save The Date Events
Must be submitted online each month at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Events priced $80 or above require a corresponding display ad. There is a $45 charge per listing, up to 50 words. If you are a current advertiser, distribution site or nonprofit you may use this listing in place of one of your free listings for a $25 charge.
Your Birth, Breastfeeding & Babywearing Specialist
Juliea Paige 616.633.5787
Crowning Lotus Doula Services Your Labor Of Love, My Love Of Labor
AdBusCardSizeBW3.indd 1
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ongoingevents Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. Events must be re-submitted each month by the 15th of the month. Events subject to change, please call ahead.
all month long 50% Off for New Patients - Chiropractic evaluations and X-rays (if needed). It’s summer, start taking care of yourself! For more information visit www.michiganuppercervical.com or call 616-8743482. Insurance restrictions may apply. $10 Off Compass Bio-Survey - Tired of guessing which nutritional supplements are needed for your body? The Compass asks your body the right questions and records the answers in a detailed report. Grand Rapids. For more info call Elder & Sage 616-242-1355. Healing Touch Bio-Energetic Treatments- Only $15 for a 30 min treatment. “Chakra Connection” for energizing and balancing all chakras & energetic fields. Please call Pattie Kooy at (616) 648-9217 to schedule a treatment. Nature’s Spiritual Connections. Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204.
sunday Unity Church of Peace - 10:00 am. Celebrating God’s presence in human nature. Offering uplifting messages that are spiritual without being religious. Youth programs & Nursery. Unity Church of Peace 6025 Ada Drive SE, Ada. 616-682-7812. www. unity-churchofpeace.org. Worship Service- 10:00 am. Coptic Minister Denise Iwaniw. The Fourth Sunday of each month we host this time of self-reflection and sharing. This month’s Love Offering will be new or used winter clothing. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500. Unity of Muskegon “A Church of Light, Love & Laughter”- 10:30 am weekly. Sunday Services & Youth Education. Minister: Rev. John W. Williams. 2052 Bourdon St., Muskegon. 231-759-7356. Unitymuskegon.org. Hot Power Yoga: Baptiste Style- 4:00 pm. Join Cindy Adams for this 75-minute dynamic practice of specifically sequenced postures created by Baron Baptiste. $10. Satya Yoga Center. Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. The Coptic Center Sunday Series – 6:00 pm. An ongoing series of inspirational speakers, centering and the piano music of Karen Lauck. The Coptic Center, 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339. TheCopticCenter.org.
monday $30 Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-of-theart profiling and tracking of all 58 meridians in the body with take-home computer generated results to assess progress. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. For more info visit Integrativenutritionaltherapies.com.
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Yoga-Beginning- 9:00 am. This is where you start. Learn the basic poses, strengthen, breath awareness and relax. For more information visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849. Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 7:30pm. Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For more details visit our website at sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.
tuesday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman- 7:459:00 am & 9:15-10:30 am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Yoga for Everyone- 10:00-11:15 am. Robert Huttinga PA-C. $3.00. The Healing Center. Lakeview. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. 989-352-6500. Education & Advocacy Meeting- 1:00-2:30 pm. 2nd Tuesday of each month. The Peter M. Wege Health & Learning Center (Wege North Building at St. Mary’s Hospital), 300 Lafayette Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. Conference Room #11 (subject to change). A Course In Miracles (ACIM)- 7:00-8:30 pm. Self-study system unique in teaching forgiveness as the road to inner peace and the remembrance of the unconditional love of God. Unity Church of Peace. Ada. 616-682-7812. Egyptian Mystery School- 7:00-8:30 pm. Listen as Denise explains the Mysteries of the Ancient Egyptians. $15. The Healing Center. Lakeview. TheHealingCenterofLakeview.com. 989-352-6500. Yogic Breathing & Meditation w/ Gretchen- 7:308:30 pm. Free blockages in the body and mind, and deepen your focus. $10-$16 per class. . Seva Yoga Studio, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541. sevayoga.net
wednesday $30 Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-of-theart profiling and tracking of all 58 meridians in the body with take-home computer generated results to assess progress. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. For more info visit Integrativenutritionaltherapies.com. Exploring the Shamanic Teachings of the Sweet Medicine Sundance Path with Marie Moon Star Seeker; Every other Wednesday; Rockford, MI, call 616-856-4957 for details.
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Gentle/Moderate Kripalu Yoga w/ Molly Ebers6:15-7:15 am. A series of movements designed to awaken every part of the body and focus the mind. $10- $16/class. Seva Yoga Studio, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541. sevayoga.net A Course In Miracles (ACIM)- 9:30-11:00 am. Self-study system unique in teaching forgiveness as the road to inner peace and the remembrance of the unconditional love of God. Unity Church of Peace. Ada. 616-682-7812. Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 10:00 am: Gentle & 7:30 pm: Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For details visit sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541. Yoga-lates: Yoga + Pilates- 6:00 pm. Kathy leads this balanced practice of yoga and pilates using floor work and assorted props. $10. Satya Yoga Center. Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. Grand Rapids Buddhist Meditation Group- 7:30 pm. Sitting and walking meditation followed by book study. Beginner’s welcome. Free. Sacred Space. Grand Rapids. 616-452-2115.
thursday 10% Off Essential Oils- Every Thursday in August Stock up on high quality essential oils formulated by essential oil chemist Dr. Pappas only at Elder & Sage. E. Grand Rapids. 616-242-1355. elderandsage.com. Essential Oil Training- 1:00-3:00 pm. Learn how to apply essential oils to maximize their therapeutic benefits. $25 per training and pre-registration required. Grand Rapids. Call or email Jodi to pre-register at 616-443-4225 or heavenlyhealings@yahoo.com. Classes for the Childbearing Year and Beyond- 6:00 pm. Every 3rd Thursday. Designed to educate & support wholistic parenting & living from pregnancy through parenting and beyond. Advance registration required. Full Circle Midwifery. Hesperia. 231-861-2535. Advanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:157:30 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga. com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231740-6662.
friday Yoga-Intermediate- 9:00 am. Learn the basics. Holding poses longer, moving deeper into your practice and awareness of the core. For details visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849.
saturday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 9:0010:15 am & 10:30-11:45 am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for info. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio. Montague. 231-740-6662. Sweetwater Local Foods Market- 9:00 am-1:00 pm. Every other Saturday. Indoors at Hackley Health at the Lakes, Harvey St. 1/2 Mile South of Lakes Mall. Exit US 31 at Pontaluna Rd. Muskegon.
classifieds
thenaturaldirectory
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...connecting you to the leaders in natural health and green living in West Michigan. To find out how you can be included in The Natural Directory log-on to www.NaturalWestMichigan.com/advertising.
BUILDING / CONSTRUCTION
ACUPUNCTURE SAMIR RAJANI, MD
for sale White Cloud- 80 Acre Farm, 6 bedroom home, vinyl siding, insulated. Dairy barn, outbuildings, 4 stall garage on M-20. Rob Breen 231-652-1100. House, Barn & 7 acre Farm on Lowell schools bus line. 2,500 sq. ft. Rustic cedar sided New England saltbox with cedar sided 2-story barn. 4-bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. Large country kitchen with island and walk-in brick fireplace, wide pine plank floors, wood ceilings & beams. Living/family room has large stone fireplace $289,000. Call 616-443-8446.
opportunities Currently Publishing Natural Awakenings Magazines - For sale in Birmingham, AL; Cincinnati, OH; Lexington, KY; Louisville, KY Manhattan, NY; North Central, FL; Tulsa, OK; Northeast PA, Southwest VA: Wilmington, NC Call for details 239-530-1377. Holistic & Green Business Owners Wanted for Health Network- NAN, the Natural Awakenings Network, is a green and healthy living network that will allow members to enjoy discounts on products & services focused on wellness, green/sustainable living and healthy lifestyles. If you are interested in becoming a provider (a business or organization that offers discounts to members) in this innovative network or want more details, contact Natural Awakenings at 616-656-9232 or Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Participating as a Provider is FREE for the 1st year. Seeking Salespeople interested in selling our Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) Card. Selling to individuals as well as companies here in West Michigan. This is not advertising sales, but more of product sales (our NAN card). Uncapped earning potential. Individuals must be motivated and personable. Send your resume to Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com.
products Endless Health & Energy Can Be Yours! RESTART YOUR LIFE! Satisfaction Guaranteed www.restartyl.com/donnashealthpath.
Your children will see what you’re all about by what you live rather than what you say. ~Wayne Dyer
DLH CONCEPTS
Medical Acupuncturist SHMG Internal Medicine 890 S. Washington, Suite 130, Holland 616-395-9000 www.shmg.org
Kyle Hass Licensed Residential Home Builder hasskyle@gmail.com 616-299-5815
Medical acupuncture can be an effective treatment for many chronic conditions, including Pain, Fatigue, Depression and Anxiety. Samir Rajani, MD is certified in medical acupuncture and practices at SHMG Internal Medicine.
ALTERNATIVE heALTH PRACTITIONER
Locally owned and operated. Specializing in building custom livable and affordable new homes that are Energy Efficient and utilize Green Building practices. Unmatched efficiencies and uncompromising quality. See ad page 39.
chiropractic care DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Ronson Dykstra & Dr. Ronda VanderWall 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050
OUT of THE BLUE INC
Nancy Despres RN, MBE 363 Cummings NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-4215 www.OutoftheBlueInc.net *UPDATED* Out of the Blue helps find alternative ways for achieving optimal health through the use of homeopathy, enzyme therapy nutritional supplements & hair mineral analysis. Now carrying homeopathic Hcg drops for weight loss.
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.
SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA
Dr. Andrew Schafer 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000
BODYWORK WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com
Certified Massage Therapist offering Therapeutic & LaStone Massage. Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, Certified Reflexologist, and a Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner. See ad page 26.
Tr e a t i n g m u s c u l o s k e l e t a l conditions, and specializing in back pain, sciatica neck pain, and headaches. Also offering physical therapy, massage therapy, and postural awareness. Most insurances accepted. Breton Village area. www.grchirospa. com. See ad page 7.
cleaning pRoDucts NATURAL HEALTH 4 TODAY Clara VanderZouwen 616-698-6148 www.NaturalHealth4Today.com
Imagine cleaning with only water! Improve the quality of your life with Norwex products by radically reducing the use of chemicals in personal care and cleaning. New to Michigan!
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cloth diapers
dentistry / holistic
BOOTYFUL BABY BOUTIQUE, LLC Allendale, Michigan 616-892-1525 www.bootyfulbabyboutique.com
Modern cloth diapers that are proudly made in Michigan. A healthy choice for your baby, your wallet and our Earth. We love to help parents make the switch!
cOlon hydrotherapy HARMONY ’N HEALTH
Mary De Lange, CCT., CMT. 1003 Maryland Av., N.E. Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 www.harmonynhealth.net
DENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. Kevin P. Flood DDS 616-974-4990 www.FloodTheDentist.com Comprehensive Holistic Dental Services – Amalgam Removal & Replacement. Bio-Compatible, metal-free materials, Low-Dose Digital X-Rays, Gentle Anesthesia, Dentistry for Diabetes, TMJ, Chronic Head & Neck pain and Non Surgical Perio. See ad page 48.
energy healing AMA~DEUS®
Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment. Using a holistic approach colonics relieve constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloat, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad page 9.
Beth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 www.ama-deus-international.com Ama Deus® healing energy method is a hand mediated technique aligned with love. The energy helps to enhance one’s own and others growth and awareness or physical and emotional healing. See ad page 39.
TRICIA E. GOSLING
Natural Health & Healing Center 723 Kenmoor SE Grand Rapids 49546 616-481-9074
Offering an advanced clientcentered dimension of colonics: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 15 years of experience. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions. I-ACT certified Instructor. Visit www. holisticenergytherapies.net
MATRIX ENERGETICS
Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com Matrix Energetics is a system used to heal, transform and create new possibilities in your life. Using principles of quantum physics and subtle energy Matrix Energetics helps you to shift into a more balanced state. See ad page 26.
cOunseling
essential oils
JANICE DE LANGE, PH.D
1514 Wealthy St. SE Ste 260, Grand Rapids 616-451-3008 JDelange06@yahoo.com www.janicedelange.com A mind-body-spirit approach for trauma and abuse recovery, PTSD, low sense of self-worth, panic & phobias, anxiety, depression, relationships. EMDR & Energy interventions.
BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILS Clara Vander Zouwen 616-698-6148 www.NaturalHealth4Today.com
Certified in Aromatherapy by Dana C. Young PHD, for Pain issues, PMS, ADHD, Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Weight loss and more. Offering Emotional Release, Bio-Energy Scans & Ionic Foot Detoxification. See ad page 14.
There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children. ~Nelson Mandela
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HEAVENLY HEALINGS HOLISTIC HEALTH SERVICES
Jodi Jenks - Reiki Master 4434 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 www.heavenlyhealings.org I am a Reiki Master that also does Essential Oil therapies including Raindrop Therapy, Emotional Clearing and Spiritual Journey work. Call or email for appointments or questions, 616443-4225 or heavenlyhealings@ yahoo.com. See ad page 8.
health education center THE WELLNESS FORUM 830 Forest Hill Ave Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-942-7907 www.WellnessForum.com
Educational programs for personal health improvement Workplace wellness programs Wellness Forum Foundation focused on school nutrition and children’s health - National conferences.
health food stores AFFORDABLE NUTRITION
Joel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner 7493 Cottonwood Drive, Jenison 616-667-1346 Affordable, natural approach to better health. Certified nutritional consultant. 20 years experience. Offering select high quality vitamins and nutritional supplements. Weight loss, cleansing, sports nutrition & more! Senior & Everyday discounts. Visit www.Affordable-Nutrition.com.
HEALTH HUTT
Grand Haven 616-846-3026 Muskegon 231-739-1568 North Muskegon 231-744-0852 www.HealthHutt.net Natural & organic foods, vitamins & herbs, sports nutrition, gluten free food, natural body and homecare products. Open 7 days a week. See ad page 26.
holistic health centers THE HEALING CENTER
352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com Naturopathic / Holistic Practitioners. Physician assistant, Certified Natural Health Professionals. Private consultations. Counseling & Classes. Blood typing, acupressure, emotional release, i r i d o l o g y, h o m e o p a t h y, massage therapy, reflexology, cranial sacral, foot detox & more. See ad page 36.
homeopathy BOB HUTTINGA
352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com A Physician assistant since 1976, specializing in naturopathic and homeopathic care. Also, certified Silva Method instructor. See ad page 36.
integrative medicine
SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA
reiki
Sheri Beth Schafer, CMT, Reiki Master 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000 We have multiple certified massage therapists offering relaxation, prenatal, deep tissue massage, and medical massage. We also offer Reiki, chakra balancing, and Ayurvedic bodywork. Breton Vi l l a g e a r e a . w w w. grchirospa.com. See ad page 7 & 30.
Alternative therapies are used in conjunction with conventional medicine to balance your mind, body and spirit. Lori Dotson, MD Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine.
Homebirth services since 1982. Committed to facilitating natural birth, bonding, strengthening the family, informed active participation, and lending dignity to women through their birthing experience.
WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com
Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Massage Therapist, Reconnection Healing P r a c t i t i o n e r, C e r t i f i e d Herbalist, Certified Acutonics P r a c t i t i o n e r, C e r t i f i e d Reflexologist, and a Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner. Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling, lectures and classes. See ad page 26.
massage therapy DYNAMIC CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY
Erin Kieffer, MT 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville, MI 49418 616-531-6050 I offer Swedish massage with Integrated Te c h n i q u e s , c h o s e n specifically to your unique body. Relieve those tired and sore muscles and rejuvenate! Call for ongoing monthly specials and discounts. www. DynamicChiro.com.
Certified Usui Reiki Master and Karuna ® Reiki. Offering professional reiki treatments, classes, personal instruction and guidance. Specialized treatment areas include chemotherapy support, PTSD, phantom limb pain, stress, and spiritual expansion.
Katie Ray 269-804-9307 www.healwithkatie.com
BIRTH SONG MIDWIFERY SERVICES
kinesiology
Connie Jean Cunningham www.haelenholistic.com 616-446-6906
HEAL WITH KATIE
midwifery
SHORELINE CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
South Haven Health System 950 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090 269-639-2833
HAELEN HOLISTIC TREATMENTS
Katie Ray is a Certified Massage Therapist and Reiki Master. Offering deep tissue and medical massage, Usui Reiki treatments, healing attunements, and psychic surgery.
Yolanda Visser CM, CPM Grand Rapids: 616-458-8144 www.BirthSongGR.com
FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERY SERVICE, INC. Patrice Bobier CM, CPM Hesperia: 231-861-2234 www.FullCircleMidwifery.com
In private practice since 1982 - specializing in homebirth. Over 1200 births attended. Offering midwifery care that maintains a family-centered safe birth experience. Empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy, give birth naturally and parent in the best ways.
HOME BIRTH PARTNERS, LLC Susan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH 231-652-3247 www.HomeBirthworks.com
This regions only Certified Nurse Midwife with 32 years experience – over 3000 births attended. Providing pre-natal, home and hospital births and postpartum care. Gynecological and Doula services available.
quantum biofeedback TRICIA E. GOSLING
retreat center THE LEAVEN CENTER Lyons, Michigan 989-855-2606 www.leaven.org
A place of beauty on the banks of the Grand River where you can find rest and nourishment for your body and spirit. Offering workshops, retreats, and rental space year-round.
school / education NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION 503 E. Broadway St Mt. Pleasant, MI. 48858 989-773-1714 www.nite-mtp.com www.leaven.org
Educational Programs: Natural Health 1-4 Years (one weekend per month), Holistic Labor Companion –Doula 6 months (1 weekend per month), Massage Therapy 1 Year (2 weekends per month), Individual Classes available. 15 years of excellence. See ad page 2.
waterbirth SHORELINE’S WOMEN’S CENTER AT SOUTH HAVEN HEALTH SYSTEM
Natural Health & Healing Center 723 Kenmoor SE Grand Rapids 49546 616-481-9074 This highly complex device is a non-invasive technology that energetically scans & harmonizes the body’s stresses and imbalances, reducing those imbalances that make us uncomfortable. Visit www.holisticenergytherapies.net
Eva Fronk, CNM and Mercedes Moran, CNM 950 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090 269-639-2720
Offering the only water birthing program in Southwest Michigan. Our Certified Nurse Midwives assist the mother during water birth delivery, in collaboration & consultation with our obstetricians. Call today to learn more.
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