Natural Awakenings Magazine ~ February 2015

H E A L T H Y

L I V I N G

H E A L T H Y

feel good • live simply • laugh more

Happy Meals

Eating Healthy Foods Fights Off Depression

P L A N E T

FREE

Happily What’s in Ever After Your Way?

Creating a Strong Relationship that Lasts

Obstacles Point Toward Wholeness and Healing

February 2015 | West Michigan Edition | NaturalWestMichigan.com natural awakenings

February 2015

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contents 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.

18 FITNESS FINDS

Locate the Best Workout Space for You

18

by Debra Melani

20 CONSCIOUS DATING Jill Crosby on Looking for Love Online

by S. Alison Chabonais

24 HAPPILY COUPLED

Creating Loving Relationships that Thrive

22

by Judith Fertig

28 WHAT’S IN

YOUR WAY?

Obstacles Point the Path to Wholeness and Healing

by Deborah Shouse

32 GENTLING GRIEF

Remedies to Heal the Heart

by Kathleen Barnes

35 WHEN YOUR

PET PASSES

A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing

by Julianne Hale

36 HAPPY MEALS

24

by Lane Vail

28

Eating Healthy Foods Fights Off Depression

38 EASE ADHD

NATURALLY

Nine Ways to Help Restore Calm and Focus

by Jenna Blumenfeld

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5 newsbriefs 9 healthbriefs 12 globalbriefs 14 ecotip 18 fitbody 12 20 wisewords 28 inspiration 32 healingways 35 naturalpet 36 consciouseating 14 38 healthykids 40 calendar 44 naturaldirectory 47 classifieds

advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 616-656-9232 or email: Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for space reservation is the 12th of each month prior to publication.

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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

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February 2015

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letterfrompublisher

I

contact us Publishers Kyle & Amy Hass

Photo: Allyson Regan

Assistant Publisher Amanda Grasmeyer

recently read a book about the 14th Dalai Lama, in which he’s quoted as saying, “Love is the center of human life. Without love we could not survive. Human beings are social creatures, and a concern for each other is the very basis of our life together.”

In February, our celebration of love again soars with the occasion of Valentine’s Day. Often we go in search of something tangible to present our beloveds and signify our high regard and affection. It can be good fun, which is magnified tenfold if we bear in mind the costs of these tokens to both people and planet and choose enlightened purchases. Part of Natural Awakenings’ mission is forwarding sustainability, as you know, and we rejoice that all our readers are on their path with us.

My favorite example of a timely gift is chocolates. Most mass-produced candy comes from industrial plantations in developing nations.

Applying a sustainability template, we’ll ask some questions before supporting the manufacturer and offering the gift as representative of our beliefs. Questions like: How are the farmers and laborers treated and what were they paid? What were the eco costs to produce and ship the product? What pesticides are used and affecting the workers, land, plants, birds and others animals living around the farms?

Is there an alternative? In this case, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” and it’s called fair trade chocolate, which is readily available in many stores.

We can ask similar questions about flowers, fruit baskets, wine, clothing, diamonds, jewelry and other items we may purchase this month. Anything certified organic is a safe bet. Estate jewelry is recycling at its beautiful best. By making informed decisions, we help give a voice to the nameless people not unlike us that toil unseen, making the world’s goods while attempting to live healthy lives with dignity.

I love the idea of consciously deepening our desire to love more by expanding our loving kindness to include those we rarely consider but that touch our lives on a near-daily basis. By being more thoughtful about the foods we eat and other products we buy, we manifest greater empathy for everyone, including ourselves. What we give comes back to us.

Editors S. Alison Chabonais 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. © 2015 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.

To consciously living well,

Never Glossy. Always Green.

Natural Awakenings practices environmental sustainability by printing on post-consumer recycled paper with soy-based ink.

This choice avoids the toxic chemicals and high energy costs of producing shiny, coated paper that is hard to recycle.

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West Michigan Edition

Amy Hass, Publisher

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Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan

NaturallyWestMI

NaturallyWestMI Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan

newsbriefs West Michigan Women’s Expo

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est Michigan Women’s Expo returns to Grand Rapids for its 17th year with an Expo focused on health, home ideas and fun - giving women something to feel good about.

In celebration of 17 years, the Caribbean themed party for the 2015 Women’s Expo, slated this year for March 13-15, will feature products, services and presentations that aim to provide a weekend of education, entertainment and enjoyment. As the largest single consumer event for women in the region, the expo will feature more than 400 women-owned and womenfocused businesses during the three-day expo held downtown at DeVos Place.

“Women’s Expo is the equivalent of spring break for women - it’s an opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled weekend with friends, focusing on feeling good and living and eating well,” said Denise Kolesar, President of Kohler Expos, which promotes the event each year. For many women in West Michigan, this is a destination weekend that allows them to connect with friends and family while pampering themselves.

The expo is slated to run from 10am-8pm on Friday and Saturday and from 11am-5pm on Sunday. Advance tickets are $8 each and are available at all area Meijer stores. Admission at the door is $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 6-14. KohlerExpo.com. See ad, page 2.

Introduction to Zero Balancing Class

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oin Linda Squires on March 19 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Holistic Care Approach for an Introduction to Zero Balancing class.

After working for another chiropractor for six years, Linda Squires went out on her own and soon found that she was extremely exhausted. She didn’t know what to do until a friend suggested a Zero Balancing Class. Now, 22 years later, she has been successfully practicing and attributes it to learning Zero Balancing of which she is a certified practitioner.

Zero Balancing is a Linda Squires therapy method which works with both energy and structure simultaneously. It is done by touching the patient’s body with both clarity and strength while the practitioner is at the state of interface versus streaming or blending. When the practitioner is at a state of interface, his/her body is at containment and doesn’t allow his/her energy to stream or blend with the patient’s. This helps create an environment of safety and keeps the practitioner at an ultimate state of being while working. By touching the energy and structure of the skeletal system and placing hand fulcrums, Zero Balancing gives the patient a new experience in which they may change – deeply, permanently and thoroughly. The practitioner simply helps the person into a state of balance and lets nature, with the person’s inner resources, do the healing and produce a state of grace.

For more information, call 800-987-1368, email LindaSquiresDC@gmail.com or visit LindaSquiresDC. com. See ad, page 8.

New Year’s Cleanse

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rand Rapids Natural Health is excited to announce a special new year’s discount. So many people feel down and out after the holidays and are

Harmony ‘n Health Colon Hydrotherapy

Mary A. DeLange C.C.T. L.M.T. 616-456-5033

Some Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy: ~ Remove Toxic Waste from ones body ~ Eradicate Constipation ~ Removes Stomach Bloat ~ Increase ones Energy

Therapeutic Massage also available

Mary@HarmonynHealth.net

www.HarmonynHealth.net

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newsbriefs looking for a boost to get back on track or get a kick start on a New Year’s Resolution. A cleanse could be just the answer. Sign up now through the end of February for any 7- or 30-day in house or self-guided cleanse and receive 20% off. Self-guided cleanses can be done from the comforts of home.

For more information, call 616-264-6556 or visit grnaturalhealth.com/cleanse/. See ad, page 21.

Acupuncture Now Available

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he Healing Center of Lakeview is pleased to now offer acupuncture services by Chrissy Lake on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

For over 25 years, Lake has been a cosmetologist in her own shop in Trufant. However, the chemical exposures to hair and nail products have taken their toll. Therefore, she is scaling back her hair business and now embarking on this new venture of alternative health care.

Lake is certified to perform full body Acupuncture and Acupressure. Cranial sacral, Reflexology, Raindrop therapy and Reiki therapy are additional tools that Lake will use to help people take control of their health. In addition, she is a Clinical Holistic Health Practitioner.

For more information, call 989-352-6500 or visit TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. See ads, page 37, 45 & 46.

Healthy Body Program

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olistic Health Coach Cathy Ostema is offering a new Cancer fighting program at Mountain Sun Healing.

This 12 week, 14 session, intensive makeover helps the body turn its cells into warriors that fight cancer to make healthy changes in an alternative way that has helped others into spontaneous remission.

Focus on the mind, spirit and physical self and take control, making healing changes in life. Some of the things covered in the program include: food, percentage of fats/ proteins/carbs, types of foods, food prep, gluten, GMO’s, sugar and carbs, probiotics, exercise, stress, sleep, toxins and more!

For more information, visit MountainSunHealing.com.

See ad, page 28.

Fourth Annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference in Wisconsin

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he fourth annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference will be held June 5, 6 and 7 at Camp Helen Brachman in Almond, Wisconsin. The conference will feature guest speakers, Dr. Jody Noe, Leslie Tierra and many others, complementing more than 60 workshops and plant walks and a kids and teen camp. The wide spectrum of Midwest herbalists and Earth-based speakers will speak on herbs, family health, wild edibles, fermentation, permaculture, movement, herbal wisdom, the Wise Woman way and much more.

Highlights include swimming, evening entertainment, a marketplace, film screenings, roundtable discussions on building herbal community. In addition, the Red Tent is a communal space, invoking the spirit of generations of women and celebrating women’s inner wisdom.

In addition to the main conference, five longer preconference workshops will be held, including Herbal First-Aid, Herbs for Lyme Disease, Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis, Herbs for Body Systems and Holistic Sexuality.

For complete information, visit MidwestWomensHerbal. com. Sponsored in-part by Natural Awakenings. Win tickets atNAChicago.com/CHI/contests. See ad, page 39.

SOPHYTOPRO ®

Discover a superior range of skin & body products made to very strict EU Cosmetics Directive Standards.

Cruelty Free • Gluten Free 100% Biodegradable 616-453-4215 NancyDespres.com 6

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Money Back Guarantee!

Wholistic Kinesiology Name Change...

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holistic Kinesiology Health Services is excited to announce its new name, A Sense of Flow. The philosophy is that we are designed to be healthy. Illness results when something is blocking our innate healing. A Sense of Flow weaves energetic and holistic therapies including Matrix Energetics, Wholistic Kinesiology, integrative bodywork, Flower Essence Therapy, herbal medicine and detox programs to help restore the body’s innate ability to heal. At A Sense of Flow, a unique solution is created for each client.

Owner, Barbara Zvirzdinis says, “What I love about my work is being able to help support people as they open to their intuitive wisdom, learn to listen to their bodies and reconnect with who they really are.” Now is the time to reconnect with your whole self—body, mind, heart and spirit.

For more information, stop in at 147 Diamond St. in Grand Rapids, call 616-581-3885 or visit ASenseOfFlow. com. See ads, page 33, 44, 45 & 46.

New Art Therapy Classes

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rt by Era is excited to announce their new Art Therapy classes, available for kids and adults. The kids’ class takes place on Saturdays from noon to 1:30 p.m. and costs $19. The adult class takes place on Fridays from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. and also costs $19 (prices include all materials).

Art by Era is a private art school located in Grandville that offers art programs for kids (ages 5 and up), teens and adults. All classes meet weekly and continue throughout the year. Affordable tuition is payable monthly. The studio also offers private events, live music events, art exhibitions/shows, birthday parties for kids/adults and other types of celebrations (for up to 80 people).

To view a class schedule or for more information, visit ArtByEra.com or email Info@ArtByEra.com. See ad, page 47.

Introducing the GreenHome Institute

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he Grand Rapids based non-profit formerly known as the Alliance for Environmental Sustainability has changed their name to the GreenHome Institute.

The GreenHome Institute (GHI) serves anyone in the Midwest who lives in a residential building—singlefamily or multi-family—who seeks design, construction, renovation or weatherization services. Their mission is to empower people to make healthier and more sustainable choices in the places they live.

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newsbriefs

The GHI trains and executes home energy audits in partnership with the West Michigan Environmental Action Council and the City of Holland, Michigan. This year, GHI will also be continuing their work with affordable housing developers. The Wege Foundation will be supporting GHI’s Green Affordable Housing training with a $20,000 grant. This grant will help thirty to forty affordable housing developer stakeholders become LEED credentialed and trained on how and why to design, build and rehab buildings to the new LEED v4 standard which is due to launch in October.

Become a member or sponsor and receive discounts on training, credentialing, continuing education, GreenStar or LEED certification and more!

For more information, visit GreenHomeInstitute.org.

Healthy Lifestyle App Now Available for Android

T

he Natural Awakenings healthy living, healthy planet lifestyle app has been upgraded with a brand-new look and updated features. The free app, already downloaded by more than 40,000 iPhone users, is now available on the Android platform.

Natural Awakenings makes staying in touch with the best choices for a green and healthy lifestyle easier than ever. Find products, practitioners and services dedicated to healthy living, plus articles on the latest practical, natural approaches to nutrition, fitness, creative expression, personal growth and sustainable living by national experts with fresh perspectives and inspired ideas.

New features include signing up for promotions, updates and newsletters, as well as convenient links to

Midwifery Matters

High Quality Care for Preconception, Pregnancy & Beyond • Home Births • Birth Center Deliveries • Well Women Care

We are Welcoming New Clients!

Leslie Cornwell, Certified Nurse Midwife 616-258-2386 • www.midwifery-matters.com 8

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the Natural Awakenings website and webstore. Find a local magazine; a national directory of healthy, green businesses, resources and services, complete with directions; updated national monthly magazine content; archives of hundreds of previously published articles that are searchable by key words; and an archive of articles in Spanish.

“These upgrades and expanded accessibility will empower people to enjoy healthier, happier and longer lives wherever they are more easily than ever before,” notes Natural Awakenings founder Sharon Bruckman. “Offering free access to Natural Awakenings’ powerful network of healthy living resources through this exclusive app is another way we can serve our users.”

To download the free app, search for Natural Awakenings on Google Play or the Apple app store or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. See ad page 21.

Encompassed Body Experience Series

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his six month class series will take people deeper into their own beings. Participants will be given tools to take into their everyday routine, helping them to feel more connected, focused, balanced and rooted into the true nature of who you truly are. Not only will participants feel a deeper sense of peace within, but they will also learn to understand themselves on a much broader level. Randi Plouffe, Body Awareness educator, Certified Yoga Instructor, Meditation Instructor Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Medical Herbalist and Iridologist will guide the class through this exciting series focusing on the profound workings of the body, mind and spirit connection.

The cost is $15.00 per class or $75.00 for all the classes if paid in advance. The class takes place on the third Sunday of the month from 1:30-3:00 p.m. at Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio.

For more information, call 616-392-7508 or visit MiBodhiTree.com. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio is located at 208 W. 18th St. in Holland. See ad, page 17.

healthbriefs

Elevate Your Well-Being & Resonate within Your Space

Satisfaction with Friendship is Hard to Come By

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study conducted by Edge Research and Sea Change Strategies found that less than a quarter of Americans are fully satisfied with their friendships, and almost two-thirds lack confidence in even their closest friends. Seniors (70 and over) and millennials/Gen Ys (16 to 34) are more likely to be extremely satisfied than Gen X-ers (35 to 49) or baby boomers (50 to 69), indicating the existence of a midlife friendship slump.

The research was based on a self-reported survey of 1,016 Americans ages 16 and up. Across all demographics, people that report they have more close friends feel happier and are more fulfilled than those that say they have few or no friends.

The majority also prefer deeper friendships with fewer friends over just having more friends. Qualities that most people look for in friends are loyalty, honesty, goodness and reliability in a crisis. Among the attributes considered least important are similar political or religious views and physical attractiveness, which ranked last.

The use of social media appears unrelated to the number or quality of friendships or overall friendship satisfaction. People that attend religious services at least once a week are twice as likely to be completely satisfied with their friendships than those that rarely or never attend such services.

The researchers concluded, “Those seeking more fulfillment from their friendships should invest disproportionate time and energy in the relationships they consider close.”

Marriage is Good for the Heart

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esearch from the New York University School of Medicine found that married people have significantly less cardiovascular disease (CVD) than those that are divorced, widowed or otherwise single. The study used data on the rates of CVD from the health surveys of more than 3.5 million men and women collected at 20,000 U.S. medical centers.

Married people under 50 had 12 percent lower incidence of heart disease than single people. Married couples between 51 and 60 years old had a 7 percent lower risk, while those over 60 had a 4 percent lower risk.

The results were presented at the 2014 scientific sessions of the American College of Cardiology. Researcher and cardiologist Jeffrey Berger recommends that doctors show increased diligence for single patients: “If one of my patients is recently widowed or divorced, I’m increasingly vigilant about examining them for signs of any type of cardiovascular disease and depression,” he says.

Complete Interior Design Services that align your physical space with the personal expression of who you are. ~ Feng Shui ~ Green Design ~ Holistic Design ~ Repurposing of your existing treasures

Shawn Merkel, ASID 616-916-1071 AlignDesignGR.com

Flaxseed Lowers Blood Pressure

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ating flaxseed reduces blood pressure, according to researchers from Canada’s St. Boniface Hospital Research Center. They attribute the effect to its omega-3 fatty acids, lignans and fiber.

The researchers examined the effects of flaxseed on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with peripheral artery disease, a condition typically marked by hypertension.

Patients consumed a variety of foods that collectively contained 30 grams of milled flaxseed or a placebo each day for six months. The flaxseed group experienced significantly increased plasma levels of certain omega-3 fatty acids and lower average systolic blood pressure (by 10 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (by 7 mm Hg). Those in the flaxseed group with initial systolic blood pressure levels over 140 mmHg saw reductions averaging 15 mmHg.

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communityspotlight

by Amanda Grasmeyer

T

hough new owner Kat McKinney’s journey to yoga might seem like an accident by happenstance, it is clear that she has found a passion that keeps her going.

McKinney was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at age 21.

It showed up in the end of her right thigh bone, put her on crutches for six months and consistently threatened to take her leg from her among the other various concerns it brought forth. After successfully completing cancer treatment, she was in great desire of getting more mobile and building back up the muscles in her leg.

She returned to college and decided to sign up for a fitness class to help with her commitment to improve her physical well-being. The strength training class she initially wanted to sign up for was full, so McKinney signed up for yoga, and she and her doctor quickly started seeing a shockingly significant change in her body.

When reflecting on that time of her life and the role yoga played, McKinney says, “As long as I maintained my practice, my leg didn’t hurt. I could feel how good it was for me, and I really enjoyed it. It was just what I needed.” She notes that she was able to affect her health in a positive way with yoga and that so many other people can do the same thing.

A new job brought McKinney to Grand Rapids from Ann Arbor in 2005 and she says she was happy to find a welcoming yoga community at The Yoga Studio with Carolyn Heines, founder, and her other talented teachers. In addition, she continued to travel back to Ann Arbor regularly where she studied with the teacher who is now her primary mentor, Sue Salaniuk. Though she wasn’t ever intending to teach yoga, after taking many classes, Heines surprised her when she asked her to substitute teach a few classes in 2006, and by 2007, she had her own class.

She says “Teaching quickly became the highlight of my week.”

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With a strong desire to get away from having a desk job, McKinney went back to school in 2008 to become a physical therapist assistant, a discipline she says complements her yoga studies well. Soon after that, she and Heines began discussions that lead to a five-year plan to acquire The Yoga Studio. Heines and McKinney worked together to progressively turn the studio over to McKinney, all while protecting the vision of the studio and being sure that it would continue on to be as well respected as what Heines had built up in her many years of expert guidance and teaching. McKinney says “Carolyn is truly a Grand Rapids treasure and I recognize that I’ve got a big role to fill.”

The Yoga Studio has a long-standing history with Grand Rapids. It began in 1979 when Heines started offering yoga to the community in various locations and then eventually opened up a permanent studio. The studio has thrived in Grand Rapids under Heines, and as of January first of this year, the reins are now in the highly qualified McKinney’s hands.

McKinney is a Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher, making The Yoga Studio the only studio to offer the Iyengar practice in Grand Rapids. Iyengar is a form of Hatha Yoga that has an emphasis on detail, precision and alignment in the performance of posture (asana) and breath control (pranayama). Much more than that, it allows The Yoga Studio to accommodate just about anybody and to truly teach “how” to practice instead of simply having students watch and follow as best as they can.

Achieving this certification requires dedication to a lifetime of studentship.

Candidates for this first level of certification study under the guidance of two Certified Iyengar Yoga teachers to learn a body of material. A three-part assessment comes next, which entails an observed practice, a written exam on philosophy, sequencing, anatomy, etc. and an observance of the candidate

NaturalWestMichigan.com

as he/she teaches a short class. The assessment is set up to clearly determine whether or not the individual is qualified and able to teach people safely.

McKinney adds, “It’s not just ‘I do my hours, I get the certificate. Candidates for certification must demonstrate their knowledge. And there are 12 more levels of assessment that can be earned beyond this initial step. Iyengar certification is very thorough.”

While not all styles of yoga teach in the way the Iyengar method does, McKinney stands by the method and says, “If you’re going to be helpful to the average American, you must be able to give them something that’s physically appropriate and helpful and not just crank through a class.”

Being there for her students is what she loves, and seeing someone who thought they couldn’t practice come to the understanding that they can do more than they thought possible excites her.

Speaking from experience, McKinney says, “Life isn’t perfect; it throws all kinds of surprises at you.” She was surprised at 21 by Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, she was surprised by the effect yoga had on her body during recovery and she was surprised in 2006 when she was asked to substitute teach a yoga class, but today she knows that she’s doing exactly what she was meant to do.

“To me, it’s a practice for life. Beyond the physical aspect, your practice has an effect on the mind, the spirit and the emotions. It gives you the resilience to cope with the ups and downs of life. It gives you the tools to cope with the world.”

The Yoga Studio is located at 955 Cherry St. SE in Grand Rapids. For more information, call 616-776-0836, email Info@gryoga.com or visit GRYoga.com.

A celebration will be held in the spring to celebrate the new ownership of The Yoga Studio. See ad, page 16.

Amanda Grasmeyer is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings Magazine. You can contact her at MandiGrasmeyer@gmail.com.

BRINGING MORE THAN HOMEWORK HOME

By Ryan Hogan It’s the time of year when we send our kids back to school from the holidays. Unfortunately, while schools are good places to learn they are great places to catch a disease. In fact, children’s Upper respiratory illnesses (URI’s) cause more doctor visits and missed school days than any other illness in the US. Luckily, there are a few things you can do at home to help reduce the chances of your child getting sick at school this year.

sanitizer before eating snacks, lunch and after using a shared computer mouse, pencil sharpener, water fountain or other community objects.

Now, most people know we need to wash our hands, but one thing most people don’t really relate their health to is nasal hygiene. Using a saline spray with xylitol, such as Xlear Nasal Spray, is safe for all ages. Research has shown this natural sweetener is useful in preventing bacterial otitis media (ear infections), among other upper respiratory problems that are most likely to occur in fall and winter months. Additional xylitol studies have also shown a significant reduction in asthma attacks when a xylitol nasal spray is used on a daily basis.

Xylitol affects nose and throat bacteria in two ways:

HOW? Before we talk prevention, we need to know how infection spreads. Many childhood illnesses are caused by viruses and bacteria that are transferred from person to person. URI’s increase in fall and winter as we spend more time crowded indoors. All it takes is one sick child, going to school for the spread to begin. Small droplets from a child’s cough or sneeze travel through the air and land on surfaces like desks, doorknobs and people. These germs are easily spread when someone touches the contaminated object and then proceeds to touch their eyes, nose or mouth. Children’s immune systems are less mature than those of adults, so they’re more vulnerable to these germs. Washing your hands and your nasal passages and also keeping their hands away from their nose, eyes and mouth are the most preventative habits to form at a young age.

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Decreases the adherence of harmful bacteria on their surface cells.

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Stimulates the body’s own natural defense system

Since the average American child has six to ten colds a year, using a xylitol nasal spray is a safe and effective way to promote better upper respiratory health, year round.

FINAL HEALTHY TIPS In addition to frequent hand-washing, teach your child some other school health basics:

WHAT CAN YOU DO? Our best defense is to stop cold germs where they breed.

Good hand-washing is the most effective way to prevent bacteria and viruses from spreading. Wash your hands after using the bathroom, blowing your nose, handling trash and prior to touching food to help eliminate germs. Soap and water should be used for 20 seconds (about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice). Using alcohol-based hand cleaners is also effective. Remind your child to use the

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Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

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Give your child a package of tissues to keep in his or her desk.

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Encourage your child not to share water bottles, food or other personal items.

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Ask your child’s teacher to include hand-washing time before lunch or snacks.

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Have your whole family practice nasal hygiene and the use of xylitol saline spray like Xlear.

Even with all of these tips, your kids are bound to come down with something over the course of the school year. We all get sick at some point or another, forming healthier habits and maintaining a positive attitude is all we can do as parents.

For more information, please visit www.xlear.com.

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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.

European Eco-Cooperation Linking Oceans and Human Health

EurOcean 2014, convened by the Italian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the European Marine Board, the European Commission and three Italian partner institutions—the National Research Council, National Inter-university Consortium for Ocean Science and the National Institute of Oceanography and Experimental Geophysics—has issued the first of 18 priorities cited in a declaration that adds momentum to a European Marine Board report, Linking Oceans and Human Health (Tinyurl.com/ OceansAndHealth). Participants identified four high-level policy goals: valuing the ocean; capitalizing on European leadership; advancing ocean knowledge; and breaking scientific barriers.

Newly discovered toxic nanoparticles and swelling micro-plastic marine pollution, with concerns emerging about higher seawater temperatures incubating chemical carcinogens, pose several new perils to human health.

Jan Mees, chair of the European Marine Board, states, “To truly progress our knowledge, European scientists across a broad range of disciplines and domains must make a quantum leap towards holistic approaches and integrated research on a scale that will help us to much better understand, protect, manage and sustainably exploit the seas and oceans that surround us. This is a grand challenge; not just in Europe, but for human society as a whole.”

Source: Eurocean2014.eu

Potent Promises

Climate Change Pledges Predict Progress President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping have both made ambitious pledges to combat climate change. Jinping pledged that China’s CO2 emissions would peak around 2030; the first time that Beijing has set such a target. Obama promised that by 2025, the U.S. will have reduced its emissions by 23 to 26 percent from 2005 levels, twice as much as Washington had previously offered.

The carbon emission deal that has been reached between China and the United States is a promising breakthrough. The world’s biggest economies account for one-third of the planet’s emissions, so their initiative should help persuade other countries to reach a global emissions agreement at a United Nations climate summit next year in Paris.

President Obama faces opposition in the Republican-controlled Congress, although aides say he can act unilaterally. Moreover, rapidly evolving energy conditions in the United States, from the increased supply of natural gas to the expansion of renewable energies, will ease the pain of carbon cuts.

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Dignity First

Most End-of-Life Care in U.S. Neglects Patient Needs The U.S. healthcare system is not properly designed to meet the needs of patients nearing the end of life and those of their families, and major changes to the system are necessary, according to a new report from the Institute of Medicine, Dying in America: Improving Quality and Honoring Individual Preferences Near the End of Life.

A 21-member committee has called for more advanced end-of-life care planning by individuals, improved training and credentialing for clinicians, and for governments and private sectors to provide incentives to patients and clinicians to discuss issues, values, preferences and appropriate services and care.

Dr. Philip Pizzo, co-chair of the committee, states, “Patients can and should take control of the quality of their life through their entire lifetime, choosing how they live and how they die, and doctors should help initiate discussions with their patients about such decisions.”

Susan Heckerman, former dean of medicine at Stanford University, says, “It’s important that healthcare options available to individuals facing the end of life help relieve pain and discomfort, maximize the individual’s ability to function, alleviate depression and anxiety, and ease the burdens of loved ones in a manner consistent with individual preferences and choices.”

The report is available at Tinyurl.com/ DyingInAmerica.

Greenwashing Conundrum Biodegradable Plastic Bags Are a Hoax

In 2010, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed recommendations for environmental marketing claims. The agency has sent warning letters to 15 marketers informing them that their claims may be deceptive, and requested more scientific evidence that plastic bags labeled as biodegradable, or “oxodegradable”, implying the bag will break down in time when exposed to oxygen, were true to the claim. Because many bags are dumped in the low-oxygen environment of a landfill, the FTC considers those advertised benefits as dubious.

Joseph Greene, a professor at California State University, Chico, points out that oxodegradable should be amended to “oxofragmentable” to be more accurate, because the plastics just break into smaller and smaller pieces. Chemically, they don’t break down into anything less hazardous. In fact, if these plastic bags disintegrate in the ocean, the fragments will be about the right size for sea creatures to mistake them for plankton.

Source: Rabble.ca

Portable Feast

Guess Who’s Delivering Dinner A new service called Plated (Plated.com) is providing households the ability to prepare a fresh, homemade dinner without having to think about menu planning or grocery shopping. The ingredients arrive at the door in a biodegradable box, pre-portioned and ready to cook in 30 minutes.

Customers browse a rotating menu of chefdesigned recipes on the Plated website and select their favorites each week, add the number of plates to the shopping cart and set a delivery date. For the price of subscription to the service, they receive a box with perfectly portioned ingredients and detailed cooking instructions. Based in New York City, Plated delivers its subscription boxes to 47 states, with plans to further expand in the next year.

Living Together

2014 Global Peace Index The world has become less peaceful over the last seven years, according to the 2014 Global Peace Index. It measures peace in 162 countries according to 22 indicators that gauge both the absence and fear of violence.

This is the seventh year the index has been produced.

Results from the 2014 Global Peace Index show that since 2008, 111 countries have deteriorated in levels of peace, while 51 increased. Europe retains its position as the most peaceful region, with 14 of the top 20 most peaceful countries. The world has become significantly less peaceful over the last year, mainly due to a rise in terrorist activity, conflicts being fought, and refugees and other displaced people.

As for the human toll, 500 million people live in countries at risk of instability and conflict, 200 million of whom live below the poverty line. The global economic impact of violence reached $9.8 trillion last year, equal to twice the total gross domestic product of Africa.

Visit VisionOfHumanity.org to explore the interactive peace map and download the report. Watch a video at Tinyurl.com/GlobalPeaceVideo.

Source: Treehugger.com

Forward Leap

Batteries that Last 1,000 Years A group of Swedish researchers has discovered an unconventional way to give new life to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which power everything from iPhones to electric cars, using pine resin and alfalfa seeds. The researchers plan to take up to two years to improve the chemistry of the product, and claim that the recycled batteries could last up to 1,000 years, according to researcher David Brandell.

It has been estimated that demand for the batteries from automobile manufacturers could explode up to 400 percent in the next six years. The researchers see the technology as a global antidote to current methods for recycling manufactured Li-ion batteries that are energy-intensive and require toxic materials to manufacture.

When Chicago University psychologists surveyed 20,000 people that were married between 2005 and 2012, they found that a third had met online. Half of them met through Internet dating, the rest via chat rooms and social networking sites. Of all the couples still married, those that met online rated themselves happier.

Source: EnvironmentGuru.com natural awakenings

February 2015

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ecotip Eco-Fireplace Tips

Best Ways to Enjoy Greener Indoor and Outdoor Fires

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Our inclination to position ourselves near fire is a year-round lure nationwide. Yet, the traditional ingredient in both indoor fireplaces in the north and outdoor fire pits in the south should give shivers to the eco-minded. In addition to causing considerable air pollution, wood smoke contains carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and fine particulates that can aggravate asthma, allergies and other health conditions.

Eco-friendly firelogs—many made of recycled biomass products like compressed wood sawdust, ground nutshells and other ingredients—provide low-emission and petroleum-free alternatives to cordwood. According to GreenAmerica.org, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends manufactured logs over wood to cut air pollutants. Major manufacturers noted

by ApartmentTherapy.com include Java, which uses coffee grounds; Energy Log briquettes made from recycled mill waste; and TerraCycle, ShredMaster Ltd. and CleanFlame, all of which use recycled and repurposed cardboard. In addition to producing greater heat, some of these logs even produce a natural crackling sound without throwing sparks.

Inserts—basically a stove that fits into existing fireplaces—provide a genuine fireside feeling, but with green benefits. An EPA-certified stove or insert is built to burn cleaner and more efficiently, dramatically reducing fine particle emissions and pollution over older models. However, while a propane gas stove insert burns even cleaner and is easier to operate, it uses nonrenewable fuel. Consider wood pellet models that burn ultra-compressed wood and biomass of olive, corn and cherry pits.

Outdoor steel fire pits that can burn firelogs have grown popular in warmer regions, and equipment manufacturers have responded. Tripods suspend swivel and free-standing grills over the pit for direct cooking or to hold cast iron kettles.

Special outdoor tables also afford a gathering spot around friendly flames. Avoid gas and electric models as eco-no-nos.

If real wood is a must, be selective. Firewood that looks a little rough is more likely to come from over-mature trees of the kind that can be removed without affecting the health of its forest (WoodHeat.org). Product packages of Pioneer Processors firewood attest that it “never uses endangered wood species and always purchases from well-managed forests.”

Dr. AnnAlisa Behling ND

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FITNESS FINDS Locate the Best Workout Space for You

by Debra Melani

S

ix years ago, Sherry Salmons, of Oak Ridge, Illinois, was perplexed by her “glowing, smiling, energetic” neighbor that worked full time while raising three young children, yet never seemed drained. Finally, she asked: “What’s your secret?” The answer was a life-changing visit by Salmons to a nearby holistic fitness studio.

Lucking into good recommendations can whittle down the multitude of choices available at 32,000 U.S. health clubs and studios, according to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association. With the dual trends of niche studios and low-cost fitness centers fueling a diverse burst in workout options, club-seekers should apply their sleuthing skills before deciding on something that can prove so pivotal to their health.

Clue #1: Location and hours. If a facility isn’t near home or work, people won’t go, says Jim White, an American

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College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) health fitness specialist, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. “Our time is so valuable that going to the gym can’t be a hassle.” Check online and list nearby facilities and hours, scratching off any that aren’t open at convenient times.

Clue #2: Know what you need. Some people have absolute necessities for fitness success. “For instance, avid swimmers need a pool,” says Grace DeSimone, an ACSM personal trainer in New York City. “That’s going to reduce their choices considerably.” Other nonnegotiable provisions might be a yoga studio, indoor track or child care.

Clue #3: Gym rat or newbie? A fitness facility that costs pennies a day might seem like an obvious choice, but not if our fitness level and knowledge are near zero. “A lot of people don’t know what to do in a gym,” observes White, who owns personal training

studios in Virginia. “We’re especially for those who want their hands held or want to see results fast.” Niche studios focused on modalities from kick boxing to dance therapy can offer added guidance. DeSimone notes that other reputable facilities will likewise have accredited trainers, often at a low cost.

Larger facilities also may offer more options for a newbie to try out before settling on what they like, she says.

Clue #4: Take a test drive. Make use of trial periods and guest passes. “Get a feel for the culture,” says Chris Freytag, spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise and a personal trainer in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

“People are more likely to stay motivated in an environment that inspires them and with people that motivate them,” Freytag says. During on-site visits, do we feel at home among kindred spirits our own age? Is the facility clean and secure?

Clue #5: Look at the equipment. If the gym doesn’t have the equipment we want to use, whether it’s Pilates or TRX equipment, free weights or Kettlebells, then move on. A gym worth joining will have plenty of up-to-date equipment that follows the latest fitness trends and works properly, says White.

Clue #6: Investigate the staff. Checking out the staff is key for those seeking specialized guidance, such as yoga, martial arts or personal training. Look for trainers and instructors available to help that are certified by a reputable program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

Investigating key employees’ back-

O

grounds, including acupuncturists and massage therapists, is crucial.

Clue #7: Sign with caution. Avoid signing long-term, complicated contracts, which are rare these days, DeSimone counsels. “Don’t be overwhelmed by a high-pressured sales pitch; just stand your ground, because those people are at your service.”

White recommends making sure the price includes expected services; feel free to negotiate, especially with initial fees. Understand all policies, especially cancellation clauses, and use a credit card, which is easier to correct if problems arise, adds DeSimone.

Although Salmons was lucky, with her neighbor’s recommendation leading her to her perfect studio, people should investigate to find their ideal fit.

“It starts when you walk in the door,” Salmons says about her attraction to The Balance Fitness Studio. “The space is open, exposed and it’s got this very clean, feng shui energy.”

Not a traditional, iron-pumping, music-blasting gym fan, Salmons prefers Pilates, but participates in all of the studio’s offerings, including massage, acupuncture and nutrition classes. While finding the right club has boosted her fitness level, she notes that the real magic has come in the form of revitalized energy. “It’s changed me in all aspects of my life. When I leave, I feel mentally focused, emotionally balanced and refreshed. It’s kind of transformational.”

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Freelance journalist Debra Melani writes about health care and fitness from Lyons, CO. Connect at Debra Melani.com or DMelani@msn.com.

Think Outside the Box

ne of the latest trends for health-seekers is joining more than one club.

Mixing it up can be a good way to go, says Jim White, owner of Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios, in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Virginia. “A lot of people are leaving the big-box gyms for more of an a la carte menu,” White says. “I have a client that strength trains with me in the mornings and then goes to spinning, barre and yoga studios in the afternoons.”

Up to 90 percent of small studio members belong to more than one club, according to the 2014 International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association’s annual industry trend report. That can both lessen monotony and provide a wellrounded fitness routine, White says. natural awakenings

February 2015

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wisewords

However, with Skype and a willingness to relocate, many of our success stories start as long-distance connections.

Video chatting is a great way to assess common values and get to know someone on a deep level before traveling to meet in person.

Conscious Dating Jill Crosby on Looking for Love Online

What distinguishes conscious dating sites like Natural AwakeningsSingles.com from mainstream sites?

by S. Alison Chabonais

J

ill Crosby, owner and founder of the Conscious Dating Network, has focused on spiritual development and meditation for more than 30 years. Working as a director for the granddaddy of the original onsite photo/video dating companies, which included interviewing 6,000-plus singles, sparked a desire to create a venue for spiritually conscious singles to meet. So, 15 years ago, she created her flagship online dating site, SpiritualSingles.com.

NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com, launched two years ago as part of the network, shares the same database of members as SpiritualSingles.com and many affiliated conscious dating sites in the network.

Today, the Conscious Dating Network is the largest of its kind. From Mount Shasta, California, Crosby leads a team of specialists that care for members’ needs and provide a loving, inspiring site

for singles to meet their beloveds.

How has online dating continued to evolve and what trends do you see now?

The stigma about meeting someone online has completely dissolved as success stories have become so common. It’s like shopping online—you can look at many different varieties and styles to find exactly what you are looking for, rather than physically searching store after store hoping to find something you like.

Technology has made a tremendous difference in price, accessibility and reach. Today, members post selfies as headshots, shoot their own videos and can access potential matches anywhere in the world.

I used to think long-distance relationships didn’t stand a chance.

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Natural Awakenings Singles is a niche dating site for those that are conscious, spiritual and green. Singles with specific interests, passions and lifestyles usually prefer niche dating sites because they allow for more targeted search results, provided that the member database is large enough. Our database of more than 90,000 members globally is considered large for a niche. Mainstream sites may have more members; however, they require far more time and effort in sorting through profiles to find those with whom we might have something in common.

Natural Awakenings Singles is also much more generous than conventional pay models, in that free members can read and reply to personal messages and live instant messages sent from subscribing members. Most mainstream sites make members pay to read and reply to messages. Our primary goal is for our singles to become couples—to facilitate the tremendous amount of success our members experience, we do many things differently.

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Have you seen any overall differences in the success stories the Conscious Dating Network facilitates?

Yes, our members usually connect on a deeper, “soul-to-soul” level and tend to understand that chemistry comes in all shapes and sizes. Our success story couples oftentimes have the feeling that they are destined to be together.

We encourage members to listen to their inner guidance in regard to whom to contact, be grateful in advance and stay in their divine flow.

When members tune in and act from this space, miracles happen.

Many of our “destined” couples go on to do amazing projects together, like opening retreat centers, writing books, facilitating workshops, starting intentional communities, creating nonprofit organizations and other beautiful ventures that neither of them would have necessarily done alone. The power of two seems to be exponentially greater.

What have proved to be your all-time favorite tips for online dating success?

By healing past traumas, loving and forgiving ourselves, and embodying our divine presence as much as possible, deep-seated feelings of unworthiness fall away and we emanate our true radiance, thus magnetizing a partner equally empowered and awake.

When we are in a place of personal power, there is no being shy or procrastinating. Imagine how it would be once you have met the love of your life, and focus on those feelings while browsing and reading profiles. When you notice a strong inner nudge to contact someone, do it. If it’s not mutual, that’s OK; don’t take it personally. That’s part of the beauty of online dating; the pool is large, and when the feeling and knowingness is mutual, you might just be starting a life together.

“In-joy” the process, be positive and choose to make it a fun adventure!

Joining NaturalAwakeningSingles. com includes access to all members of all the Conscious Dating Network sites.

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Dr. Andrew Weil on the Evolution of Medicine to Integrative Medicine

by Andrea Schensky Williams

Natural Awakenings had the opportunity to pose progressive healthcare-related questions to Dr. Andrew Weil, world-renowned author, founder and director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine and clinical professor of internal medicine at the University of Arizona.

NA: As you travel the country one of your topics is about Integrative Health and Happiness. Is it connected to your book Spontaneous Happiness?

AW: It is. For a long time, I’ve wanted to see an integrative movement start in psychology and psychiatry. I think this is a field which has become so dependent on drugs and is really functioning not very well to help people. There are so many more things that people need to know about maintaining emotional wellness, and this again is an area where an integrative approach is totally obvious.

NA: Unfortunately and fortunately the timing of your talk is current with the recent passing of Robin Williams. I believe there will be an entirely new awareness of mental health. Why do you think there is such an increase in depression?

AW: There are many reasons for it, including changes in diet and a breakdown in communities, which has greatly increased social isolation and disconnection from nature. Another factor is the rise in information technology, all the new media. Plus, pharmaceutical companies have been very successful at convincing people that ordinary states of sadness are matters of unbalanced brain chemistry that need to be treated with medication.

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West Michigan Edition

Courtesy of drweil.com

Publisher Natural Awakenings Northern New Mexico

NA: With diet being such a major component in affecting our emotional state of mind, what role does the antiinflammatory diet play?

AW: There is a new body of research linking inflammation with depression.

It’s fascinating! The fact that the mainstream diet promotes inflammation is why I believe there may be a dietary correlation with the rise of depression in our population.

NA: If somebody suffers from depression, would you say the steps recommended in your book Spontaneous Happiness are a precursory approach or in addition to management through medication?

AW: I give information about how to wean off medication. I’d say the book is primary. For people with mild-tomoderate depression, I would follow the information there first. For people with severe depression, it may be necessary to give antidepressant drugs, but I think that they should be used for limited period. Maximum a year. You should then be working to find other ways to manage the depression. There is very specific information about what to do if you are on medication and how to wean off it carefully and start these other methods.

NA: Another epidemic is also the onset and increase of diabetes in the U.S., particularly starting in early childhood.

AW: A big concern! I think this is mostly due to the way we’ve changed food. I think diet is a huge factor here.

Especially the greatly increased consumption of sugar, sweetened beverages, and products made with flour and refined carbohydrates.

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NA: What are your thoughts about integrative medicine being able to lower healthcare costs in the U.S.?

AW: Integrative medicine can influence in two ways. First, by shifting the focus of health care on health promotion and prevention rather than disease management. Most of the diseases we are trying to manage are lifestyle related.

This is where integrative medicine really shines. Secondly, by bringing into the mainstream treatments that are not dependent on expensive technology, and I would include pharmaceutical drugs in that category.

I think we’re going to be forced by economic necessity, because the current healthcare system is not sustainable and the challenge is to turn this very dysfunctional system of disease management into a system of health promotion and disease prevention. Integrative medicine is in a perfect position to do that because of its emphasis on lifestyle medicine. Integrative medicine is also teaching healthcare practitioners to use low-tech methods of managing common diseases that are not expensive and they’re not dependent on expensive technology. I think for both of those reasons there will be an economic drive to make this mainstream medicine. And I think what’s happening here in N.M. will be on the forefront of that.

NA: What influence does the public have to support a shift in the current medical system?

AW: Our dysfunctional healthcare system is generating rivers of money flowing into very few pockets. Those are the pockets of big pharmaceutical companies, manufacturers of medical devices, big insurers, and those interests have total control of our legislators. So, I don’t think any real change is going to come from the government, the only real change will come from a grassroots movement to change the politics of all of this.

NA: What do you think the public can do to help support a shift in the current medical system?

AW: Demand from insurers coverage for these kinds of treatments. You can seek out integrative practitioners, you can tell health practitioners you work with that integrative education is available and urge them to get up to speed in those areas. You can really raise your own awareness of the extent these very powerful lobbies now influence the system and why we really need to see a sweeping political change.

NA: You offer several programs through the University of Arizona, such as a four-year program, a two-year fellowship for medical doctors, and even

programs for nurse practitioners and physician assistants. What would be the benefit of adding integrative medicine to one’s practice?

AW: I think it is what patients want, and it makes the practice of medicine much more enjoyable. I think many practitioners realize that they don’t have the knowledge their patients want. For instance, to counsel them about diet or use of alternative medication. This is a way they can gain knowledge they didn’t get in their conventional medical training. And also, I think we are providing a community of like-minded practitioners. We’ve graduated over a thousand physicians now. This is a really robust community that really stays in touch and supports each other.

NA: Over what time period have these physicians graduated?

AW: I think it’s over 10 years now. And we’re greatly expanding our reach.

We’re eventually hoping that we can get this into all residencies. Whether you go to a dermatologist, a pediatrician, gastroenterologist or a psychiatrist, that doctor will have had basic training in nutrition and mind/body interactions, and herbal medicine and all the rest that is now left out. We’re also training nurse practitioners, physician assistants and have begun a new program in lifestyle medicine, which

is open to all sorts of practitioners from registered dietitians to psychologists and RNs. NA: What reforms would you like to see in the current U.S. healthcare system?

AW: Well, changes in priorities of reimbursement that favor integrative medicine. At the moment, we happily pay for drugs and tests. We don’t pay for a doctor to sit with a patient and counsel them about diet or teach them breathing exercises. I would like to see a new kind of institution come into being that I call a healing center where people could go for lifestyle education and management of common illnesses, and that is somewhere between a spa and clinic. Stays in these would be reimbursed by insurance, very similar to Europe. And beyond that, I think it’s unconscionable that the richest nation on Earth can’t provide basic coverage to all of its citizens.

Dr Andrew Weil will be holding the 12th annual Nutrition and Health Conference in Arizona on May 4 through 6, 2015. More information about his Integrative Medicine programs can be found at integrativemedicine.arizona.edu.

If you would like more information, go to DrWeil.com

natural awakenings

February 2015

23

Happily Coupled Creating Loving Relationships that Thrive

by Judith Fertig

“To be fully seen by somebody… and be loved anyhow— this is a human offering that can border on miraculous.” ~ Elizabeth Gilbert

A

t the conclusion of her bestselling memoir, Eat Pray Love, author Elizabeth Gilbert had fallen in love with Jose Nunes (called Felipe in the book), a Brazilian living in Indonesia. The divorced Gilbert, reluctant to have her heart broken again, had vowed never to remarry… yet ultimately changed her mind when U.S. immigration law presented her with multiple choices: marry so they could live together in this country, stay single and live as ex-pat partners or say goodbye to Nunes.

Gilbert chose a marital partnership that suits the shared life they want: honest and, after years of travel, settled in one place. She says, “For the first time in my life, living in a small town with a lovely husband in an old house with

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a big garden and several pets, I feel absolutely rooted in a way I have never experienced before and never would have imagined even desiring. But it is what we want—at least for now—and we’re relishing that stability.” Gilbert records the process of going from two global wanderers falling in love to a married couple sharing domestic chores in her follow-up memoir, Committed: A Love Story.

Love Science

The spark that ignites such a partnership is love, which is “primarily about connection,” says Barbara Fredrickson, Ph.D., a positivity expert and author of Love 2.0: How Our Supreme Emotion Affects Everything We Feel, Think, Do, and Become. “It’s vital to our health

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and happiness, affecting our brains and bodies at the cellular level.

“We were born to love,” emphasizes Fredrickson, who also serves as a psychology professor and director of the Positive Emotions and Psychophysiology Laboratory at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “The evidence comes from research that shows how our brain and nervous system are designed to enhance our chances of experiencing it.”

When we share positive emotions with another person, experience a synchrony between their biochemistry and behaviors and ours, plus exhibit mutual care, love can bloom, whether we stay happily single or decide to pursue a committed relationship. She calls this triple-action sequence “positivity resonance”. Love, she observes, is less a smooth, solid path than momentary experiences of connection.

Making Love Last

The more areas of connection we have with our partners, the more opportunities we have to positively resonate every day, adds Frederickson.

Thomas G. Plante, Ph.D., a psychology professor at California’s Santa Clara University and adjunct clinical professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Stanford University School of Medicine, agrees. “Long-term relationships, like marriages, are partnerships in living,” according to Plante.

“The vast majority of the time couples are together they’re not having hot sex, but are sharing a practical day-to-day life together.”

Shared activities aren’t always exciting or glamorous. Raising children, working, managing a home, cooking and cleaning, shopping, being with friends and family and the rest of regular daily living is where the rubber meets the road in relationship satisfaction, observes Plante. “If couples aren’t compatible in these areas, then the connection and attraction will inevitably atrophy, tensions emerge and too often, relationships fracture and fall apart.”

Compatibility means different things to different people, and requirements can change as individuals in a romantic partnership change over time.

Compatibility also means agreement

that the relationship is worth the effort to nurture and sustain it.

Partnering Life’s Dance

Five couples in different stages of loving partnerships share how they make their special relationships work. The key to them all is shared values.

Doing everything together. For newlyweds Drs. Josh and Chelsea Axe, of Nashville, Tennessee, a mutual commitment to vigorous wellness and physical fitness keeps them together. Says Josh, “The healthy lifestyle I have chosen to live is so important that I need someone who is able to not just agree, but also partner with me.” Married in 2012, the two chiropractic physicians went on to co-found the BurstFIT interval training program and meld their professional, as well as personal, lives.

Chelsea notes, “There is truth to the phrase, ‘Couples that sweat together, stay together.’ When working out together, you share a specific energy you create while pushing yourself to your mental and physical limits. You have your partner right there doing it alongside you, knowing they’re supporting you; so when you each break through a mental or physical barrier in your workout, you step over together into a strength and confidence that carries over into your marriage. Being a part of each other’s goals and the struggles to reach them unifies us.”

Remarks Josh, “I feel like we can both be successful individually, but when we’re a team, the outcome is synergistic.”

Chelsea adds, “It’s never a mindset of ‘me.’ It’s always ‘us.’”

Balancing work and play. Barbara and Bob Unell, of Leawood, Kansas, dated as teenagers, went their separate ways in college and then found each other again in their early 20s. “We went on a blind date in 1968 and both belted out songs on the car radio,” recalls Barbara. “I thought he had a great sense of humor and was fun to be with. All these years later, it feels like we’re still dating. We’re crazy about each other.”

Both Barbara and Bob describe themselves as enthusiastic, playful, entrepreneurial, altruistic and geared toward creative projects, whether un-

“Seventy-five to 80 percent of all chemistry evaporates within six to eight months unless the relationship is significantly undergirded by deeper and more durable compatibility.” ~Neil Clark Warren dertaken together or separately. “We’re both, ‘Let’s try this,’ sort of people,” says Barbara with a laugh.

When the Unells had twins, now grown, they realized there was no national publication addressing how to parent multiples, so they launched Twins magazine in 1984. Bob founded and managed an advertising agency while Barbara wrote bestselling parenting books, but the whole family traveled together on her speaking engagements.

In response to becoming a breast cancer survivor, Barbara founded the nonprofit Back in the Swing in 2000 to support survivorship care at cancer centers.

When they needed additional staff, Bob joined the team in 2009. One of the biggest things that Barbara has learned from Bob is, “You can make work fun.”

“Although we come from different backgrounds, Bob and I know the power of mutual respect, trust and kindness,” reflects Barbara. “Part of our connection is that we have shared history and never take each other for granted.”

Making long-distance work. Lisa Ekus, who runs the full-service culinary talent agency The Lisa Ekus Group, in Hatfield, Massachusetts, had been married twice and already raised her two children when she met Atlanta Chef Virginia Willis. They got to know each other through culinary events and to their surprise, fell in love. Over the past six years they’ve evolved a relationship that works for them—keeping a deep personal connection, but maintaining separate residences.

Cookbook author Willis gardens, develops recipes and writes for her Food Network blog, “Down Home Comfort,” at Ekus’ New England compound in the summers; Ekus travels to the South during cold months. They also meet up as often as they can at conferences, food and wine festivals and other events during the rest of the year.

“We are both smart, professional women who love what we do, have strong ethics and a high level of self-expectation in how we work,” says Ekus.

“We are also best friends and work together professionally. The respect we have for each other and our work is instrumental in our relationship.”

“We often joke about the North/ South, fast/slow cultural difference,” Ekus notes. “I’m more spontaneous; Virginia is more thoughtful in her responses. I tend to move fast and focus on checking off items, while Virginia is more about the journey and being in the moment. It often makes us each take stock and consider what we’re doing and saying.”

They make the geographic separation work despite its inherent longdistance complications via consistent communication, saying good morning and good night every day by phone and texting often. They hold regular agent/author meetings to make professional plans and personal calendar meetings at least weekly, recognizing and respecting what is important to each of them.

Bridging the age gap. Karen and Dick Eagle, from St. Louis, Missouri, are 16 years apart in age, but are close in the ways that count. Both are strongminded and still vie to get their own way even after 30 years of marriage.

“We argue over the stupidest things, natural awakenings

February 2015

25

back and easy to be and then resolve our “Marriages based on with, I can relax,” says disagreements and Susan. Michael, on realize how good we a mutual desire to the other hand, always have it,” says Karen. serve and inspire grow seemed to fill a room.

What first atJake helps Susan with tracted them to each continually in richness chores around the other—and keeps and beauty, and are property and she is them together—is a a benediction to all always there cheering love of playful fun him on from the front and good times with who know of them.” row when he performs friends. Karen reat local venues. marks, “I knew Dick ~ Meher Baba was ‘the one’ when he jumped flat-footed over a wingback Cultivating Care chair at a friend’s house. That showed Working out as a couple, sharing a me that he was young at heart.” creative project or making a gour Making ends meet. Eleven years met meal together can do more than ago, when family therapist Susan Frankkeep partners feeling connected. lin lost her husband, Michael, a univerShared activities also keep the positive sity college professor, she felt bereft and experiences ongoing and resonating. overwhelmed. The pair had owned a “That special bond and the commitcountry property near Cleveland, Ohio, ments people often build around it where they boarded horses. Susan realare the products of love, the results of ized, “I couldn’t keep the many smaller moments in which up with everything on love infuses you,” mainmy own,” and Jake tains Fredrickson. Such Marshall, a musician moments not only friend of Michael’s, accumulate, but offered to help. Over can also be stored time, Susan and Jake in memory and became close, and banked to feed a they now live relationship during together. the tougher times.

Although “Love is someJake is a great thing we should supporter in many re-cultivate every ways, he’s not in day,” she says. A a position to help loving partnership financially. Susan is always a work depends on her late in progress. husband’s insurance and pension benefits, which Judith Fertig is a freelance writer from she would lose if she Overland Park, KS. remarries. “Jake is so laid

Conscious Compatibility

N

eil Clark Warren, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and co-founder of the eHarmony relationship website, believes there are at least 29 personality dimensions—such as anger management skills, intelligence, feelings about children, energy and ambition—that comprise who we are and play a role in maintaining a relationship. Key personality dimensions include interests and activities, guiding principles and philosophies, expressions of emotional experience, tendencies toward togetherness and separateness, goals and familial and other relationships.

Warren suggests categorizing desired qualities in a mate into three lists: non-negotiables, qualities that are top priority and deal breakers; semi-negotiables that are important, yet flexible secondary priorities; and negotiables that are subject to tradeoffs for more important qualities.

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communityspotlight

by Julie Reynolds

I

t is a common phrase in society that knowledge is power. The more people know and understand about the human body and how natural medicines and plants affect the body, the more power people have to help improve individual health and quality of living. The natural world holds many healing elements that are just waiting to be discovered and used.

Some of those powerful elements are made into essentials oils, which many believe can potentially offer substantial health benefits when used properly. Marilyn York is an independent distributor for Young Living Essential Oils, a health advocate, an ordained minister and a Reiki III Master (teacher). She has been learning about and selling these pure products for the past 13 years, is a true believer in the healing powers of pure essential oils and enjoys helping people obtain the purest products for their health needs.

York stresses the importance for consumers to be aware and educated on the products available, because not all essential oils and natural products are created equally. There are many distributors of essential oils and prices can vary with different brands, but quality and purity of the oil also vary by brand.

The less expensive bottle of a lavender essential oil in a drugstore may not be of the same quality as one produced

by Young Living Essential Oils, for example. Although there are thousands

of scientific studies being conducted on the effectiveness of many essential oils, currently there are no government regulations on labeling of essential oils for content, according to York.

During the course of York’s work with Young Living, she has come across people who sometimes tell her they are “allergic to certain essential oils.”

However, she has found that when some of those people use the authentic and pure essential oils, those reactions tend to not occur. York observed that likely the reason they previously experienced discomfort from what they believed to have been an essential oil, may have actually been a synthetic oil, and their body responded negatively to the chemicals that had been combined to mimic the scent of authentic essential oils. “Synthetic oils, which can be purchased very inexpensively, have no health constituents, and apparently 95% of all essential oils sold in the United States are synthetic,” York states.

People are becoming more aware of health issues and what they put into their bodies. They are making smarter food choices by eating organic foods, integrating exercise into their routines, implementing forms of meditation and experimenting with many other ways of improved living and health. York understands the need for other options for healing and improving health. She believes that the use of essential oils is “an idea whose time has come.” Over

the years she has come to understand the many uses essential oils have for people and strives to get the word out to others.

Young Living has been growing, harvesting, distilling and selling essential oils for over 20 years. They carry a philosophy to only sell the purest and highest quality oils to ensure optimum quality. Owning their own farms in eight countries helps control the quality and guarantee the quality to consumers through their “Seed to Seal Guarantee.” Their essential oils are created using plants that have been grown from non-GMO seed, grown in organically clean soil, watered by melted mountain snow and harvested at their peak point of highest constituents. No carrier oils are used, and their oils are not extended with any synthetics, which may or may not be the case with other brands. York states, “When someone buys a bottle of Young Living Essential Oils, they can be certain they are receiving pure oil in the bottle.”

For more information on Young Living Essential Oils, contact Marilyn York tollfree at 1-877-436-2299, extension 2 or visit youngliving.org/naturalhealth4u.

See ads, pages 20 & 45.

Julie Reynolds is a contributing writer and has a background in advertising, teaching, writing and real estate. She can be contacted at reynj36@gmail.com

natural awakenings

February 2015

27

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ince childhood, Mary O’Malley always thought that something bad was about to happen and experienced a continuous dread that gnawed her insides. Over the years, she tried to eat, drink and medicate away the anxious feelings plaguing her, and sought help from group therapy, hypnotherapy and psychiatrists.

Then in 1972, in her late 20s, O’Malley attended a yoga workshop that helped advance her quest to let go of struggles and embrace life. Later, when she met Stephen Levine, whose teaching is influenced by Buddhism, he conveyed, “There’s nothing in you that needs to be fixed,” and invited her to view her own issues with curiosity and compassion.

The transformational insights learned along her journey shared in her book, What’s In the Way Is the Way, include simple tools for those that need to move beyond struggles to live in the present with more peace, ease and joy.

Train as a Tightness Detective

Ask this internal question when feeling stressed: “In what aspect of life am I holding on for dear life?” Is your breath short, are your shoulders tight; do you feel a fist in your solar plexus or an elephant sitting on your chest? These are indications that you’re aligned with some struggle. By softening and breathing into the tight places, you can open into life and better align with ease and grace.

Strengthen the Curiosity Muscle

Whenever O’Malley experienced inner gnawing, she tuned into her body and inquired about the dread: “How big is it

and how deep does it go? Does it have a flavor?” The more she questioned, the more curiosity and attention she brought to the emotion and the freer she felt.

Turn Curiosity into Compassion

O’Malley learned to more accurately self-report her feelings. Instead of, “I am afraid,” she learned to assess; “Dread is here.” Then she cultivated compassion, treating the dread as her friend signaling the need for a solution. She acknowledged and listened to the stricken and paralyzed parts of herself, knowing they were separating her from joy because they needed to be heard and understood.

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Step Outside Struggle to Embrace Humility

O’Malley believes that struggle is humanity’s core compulsion. We develop a story about the difficulty of life and heroically fight against myriad injustices. Yet making a U-turn in perspective to see them as challenges is tailor-made to help us recognize and achieve separation from our individual struggles in favor of a better way of experiencing life.

“The dictionary misses the full meaning when it defines humility as ‘lowliness, meekness, submissiveness,’” O’Malley believes. “True humility is a state of great availability, and from this kind of openness we can reconnect with the joy of being fully alive.” She now discovers gifts embedded in every single challenge.

Deborah Shouse blogs at DeborahShouseWrites.wordpress.com.

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G

rief can arrive suddenly with the death of a loved one, serious illness, loss of a job, parental dementia or decaying relationship. In any case, it takes a toll.

“Grief encompasses all of our thoughts and feelings. Mourning is when we put them into action by talking, crying, perhaps doing rituals,” explains Tracy Riley, a licensed clinical social worker and grief counselor in Jacksonville, Florida.

“Grief isn’t something that’s over when you wake up one day,” Riley counsels. “It’s ridiculous when an employer gives you three days off and then expects everything to be fine.” She notes that time helps heal all wounds, but even a decade after losing a loved one, the pain can remain and life is never the same, although most of us learn to live with loss and move forward.

“Some things can’t be fixed,” concludes Megan Devine, a psychotherapist in Portland, Oregon, and author of the audio book, When Everything is Not Okay, who blogs at RefugeInGrief. com. After witnessing the drowning death of her fiancé, she says, “I didn’t need to hear platitudes that everything would be OK. I needed something solid to hold onto when my whole world exploded.”

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Physical Aids

An unexpected death and any emotional shock is an extreme stressor that causes the adrenal glands to release a flood of adrenaline. Tina Erwin, La Mesa, California author of The Lightworker’s Guide to Healing Grief, explains, “If you get a shock when someone close to you dies, your adrenal glands are blown out almost instantly and you are overwhelmed with adrenaline, much like we often see in people with post-traumatic stress disorder. You need to rebalance your body chemistry.”

Intense grief can sometimes show up as chest pain, a classic sign of heart attack, due to a temporary disruption of the heart’s normal pumping action from a surge in stress hormones, according to the National Institutes of Health. Yet Imperial College London scientists now have found that a recognizable “broken heart syndrome” may temporarily protect the heart from being overwhelmed with adrenaline.

“Healing the physical side of grief ultimately helps healing on an emotional level, too,” says Erwin. To assist herself following the death of her 6-yearold niece from a sudden infection, she uses several Bach flower remedies for trauma—Rescue Remedy, to rebalance

the flood of adrenaline; Star of Bethlehem, for shock and loss; and Mimulus, for fear and anxiety. “Combining a few drops of each of these in a water bottle or tea several times a day helps you regain a feeling of balance,” Erwin says.

She also likes drinking bloodcleansing noni juice to help wash adrenaline out of the body, and taking salt baths enhanced with lavender essential oil to literally “wash away the darkness.”

Emotional Aids

Riley views art and music therapy, plus journaling (a “personal roadmap” that helps chart her progress), as powerful healing tools. She’s also seen firsthand how animals can play a key role through the mourning process. Her miniature schnauzer intuitively approaches her clients that are anxious and grieving and gives them permission to pet him. “It puts people at ease,” she says. “Then they can talk more freely about their pain.” Numerous studies, starting in the 1980s, show that stroking a furry pet lowers blood pressure.

Helping a Mourning Friend

H

ere’s comforting advice from grief advocate Megan Devine for friends yearning to soothe a bereaved friend.

Don’t try to fix it: Don’t say anything that tries to fix the unfixable, and you’ll do fine. It’s an unfathomable relief to have a friend that doesn’t try to take the pain away.

Grief belongs to the griever: You have a supporting role, not the central role, in a friend’s grief, which is an entirely personal experience.

Anticipate, don’t ask: Don’t say, “Call

me if you need anything,” because your friend won’t call; not because they don’t need support, but because identifying a need, figuring out who might fill it, and then reaching out to ask is beyond their energy level, capacity or interest. Instead, make concrete offers of practical assistance in doing normal tasks or chores for the friend and deliver on them.

Be willing to witness searing pain: Simply be quietly present. Acknowledge their state and stick with simple truths: “This hurts. I love you. I’m here.”

Charting a Personal Course

For the bereaved (literally defined as “torn apart”), the symptoms of grief are meant to slow us down, advises Alan Wolfelt, Ph.D., director of the Center for Loss and Life Transition, in Fort Collins, Colorado, and author of numerous related books, including Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart.

Society expects bereaved people to “carry on, keep their chins up, be glad they had him/her as long as they did or else be grateful that our loved one’s pain is over”—all platitudes that are more hurtful than helpful, says Wolfelt. Mourning takes time, but it also requires a social context, he explains. “It’s the shared response to loss.

If you isolate yourself, you are grieving, not mourning. You can’t do this on your own. It’s bigger than you.”

For those that feel stuck or unable to move forward, experienced grief counselors may be able to help.

Kathleen Barnes is the author of numerous health books, including Ten Best Ways to Manage Stress. Connect at KathleenBarnes.com. natural awakenings

February 2015

33

The Winter Blues

by Bob Huttinga

H

umans are members of the primate species, one of two sub-classes of mammals. Some mammals such as bears, bats, raccoons and others conserve energy during periods of winter hibernation when their bodies slow down to conserve energy until spring.

To survive winter, ancient man mimicked the hibernating behavior of other mammals as well as the seasons of the natural world. They gathered food and fattened up throughout summer and spent winters living in a lodge, cave or earth dwelling, emerging only for survival purposes. There, they did a lot of sleeping.

Although it is fiction, Jane Auel’s books, Clan of the Cave Bear and the rest of her “Children of the Earth” series, depict some of the winter activities of our pre-historic relatives. In today’s culture, and with the help of advanced technology, we do the opposite of nature. We slim down in the summer because we are more active and fatten up in the winter and, instead of listening to our body, we push on through, working and taking care of life, often not getting enough sleep.

As a result of the natural, genetic, biological cycles, many of us begin to feel the slow-down by January or February. The Psychiatrists and scientists have named this Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Seasonal Depression. This simply means some people get a “little nuts” by mid-winter.

Although the pharmaceutical industry’s answer is Prozac and Paxil, which in some extreme cases might be necessary, there are other things to try first, like a daily minimum of eight hours of sleep, perhaps sometimes more. The eight hours do not all have to be in one stretch. Napping for 10-15 minutes is not only permissible but also advisable.

It’s also important to get real sunshine. Even a week of vacation spent in the sunny south can recharge the sunlight battery, so things do not feel so bleak. Sunshine penetrates the skull and stimulates the pineal gland in the brain. This increases the production of melatonin, which is one of the serotonin neurotransmitters. If you cannot go south, sit with your head in the sun on any sunny day. In the absence of sunshine, regular time spent

near a full spectrum lamp or installing full-spectrum fluorescent tubes in your work area can simulate the effects of sunlight. A full spectrum lamp should be placed directly over the head for two hours per day.

Supplements like 5 HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophane) can be useful as well. Taken at bedtime, it helps improve sleep (this is what is in turkey that makes some people sleepy). It is converted into serotonin, the mood elevator. For some, St. John’s Wort is good for dealing with the Winter Blues.

Vitamin D3 is also highly beneficial.

Most of us are deficient in Vitamin D and supplementation with 2000-4000 milligrams per day is recommended for those who are not exposed long enough to sunshine.

Exercise is highly important to balance body and brain chemistry as well as to remove sluggish waste products from the body. Do something fun. Find a winter activity that will balance out the blues and make your own sunshine.

While we may be past the times of mimicking the hibernating behavior of other mammals and the seasons of the natural world, it’s still important to take care of ourselves so our way of life doesn’t take a negative toll on us.

Bob Huttinga and his wife, Barb, are the owners of The Healing Center in Lakeview. For more information, visit TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. See ads, pages 37, 45 & 46.

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naturalpet

When Your Pet Passes A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing

by Julianne Hale

A

pet’s love is extraordinary because it is unconditional. It doesn’t have expectations, pass judgment or try to leverage guilt. It is rich in loyalty, trust and adoration. Domestic pets provide warmth, companionship and love, as well as purpose, fun and conversational gambits for family members. For lonely hearts, they are a lifeline, providing a physical, emotional and spiritual connection to life that may prove critical to survival and happiness.

Loving pets seem like an endless source of happiness while with us, but few outlive their owners. Loss is as much a part of having a pet as potty training. For some, the loss of a dog or cat is debilitating and the grieving process can take months.

Rev. Gary Kowalski, author of Goodbye, Friend and a Unitarian Universalist minister in Santa Fe, New Mexico, contends that the depth of the relationship that we develop with pets emerges from the time we spend with them every day—exercising, feeding, grooming and even sleeping with them.

The relationship is pure and uncomplicated, and the pain of separation can be especially intense and profound.

The challenge of pet loss is often complicated by the difficult decision to euthanize an aged or suffering animal.

“One of the hardest things about having a dog is that sometimes you have to

decide to end its life,” says Jon Katz, of upstate New York, a New York Times bestselling author of many books about dogs, including Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die. “Our job as pet owners is to be an advocate for our pets, making sure they do not suffer.

Don’t poison the joy that you shared with your pet with guilt over your decisions,” he says. Katz recommends taking photos of pets and making intentional memories in the time leading up to parting to encourage closure.

The same kind of rituals we use to honor and say goodbye to other family members can likewise help ease the pain of a pet’s passing. Owners can gather with loved ones and friends to celebrate the life of their pet with a burial ceremony or memorial. Kowalski likes adding meaningful words. His book includes a variety of readings that pet owners can use in their rituals taken from poems, literature, the Bible and other sacred texts.

When a human friend or family member dies, compassion and empathy flows from everyone we meet, but many may not be aware of, or understand, the depth of grief associated with a pet’s death. “Some people feel embarrassed or don’t understand that mourning a deceased pet is a normal process,” explains Julia Harris, a pet bereavement counselor from Ellijay, Georgia, and author of Pet Loss: A Spiritual Guide.

Support is essential during times of grief, and it can be difficult to find an understanding friend to discuss it with.

Several online communities are devoted to providing support. An Internet search of “pet loss support” yields a wealth of online resources.

In the same way that the belief in an afterlife comforts people of many faith traditions when a person passes, the possibility of the same destiny for pets can offer comfort. “Perhaps one of the most common questions I am asked is whether or not animals have a soul,” explains Harris. “I encourage people to know that the soul, like love, is eternal.

It leaves the physical body, but the loving relationship continues.”

While there’s no standard timeline for the grieving process, it’s important to keep perspective. Excessive grief can lead to depression. “If the grief is interfering with life and your work, then you may need to seek professional help,” advises Katz.

Not even a parent is capable of providing the purely unconditional love we receive from pets. Kowalski views it as a sacred connection, observing that through the unconditional love and acceptance that we receive from our pets, we get a little glimpse of what God’s love must look like.

Julianne Hale is a writer and editor for Natural Awakenings and blogs about family life at AnotherGrayHair.

WordPress.com.

Helping Children Cope

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or many children, the loss of a beloved pet is their first exposure to death, and age-appropriate honesty is the best policy for helping them through this difficult time. Rev. Gary Kowalski advises parents and caregivers to reassure kids that the death of an animal is not something they have to fear, and let them know that the animal is not in pain, is not sleeping and is in a peaceful place.

He cautions parents against speaking euphemistically about death to young children.

Involving children in the planning of a memorial service for a pet can be therapeutic. Let them talk openly about their favorite memories together and their sadness. Bereavement counselor Julia Harris encourages parents to share stories from their faith traditions that address afterlife. “These stories can help your child best understand that God continues to watch over their pet,” she contends. “This provides a sense of security that the pet is safe and remains with your child in spirit and memory.”

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consciouseating

HAPPY MEALS Eating Healthy Foods Fights Off Depression

by Lane Vail

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dvertisements for antidepressants abound, yet a recent analysis in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the benefits of treating mildly or moderately depressed individuals with these drugs “may be minimal or nonexistent” compared with a placebo. Most physicians agree that at least part of the prevention of and recovery from depression can be addressed through diet.

“Every molecule in the brain begins as food,” says Dr. Drew Ramsey, author of The Happiness Diet and assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. “Food choice is the biggest puzzle piece patients have under their control.”

Ramsey describes the modern American diet as being overwhelmed with highly processed foods, refined carbohydrates, omega-6 fats and sugar.

His food philosophy serves as an overall prescription for mental health: “Eat food

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West Michigan Edition

that comes from farms and not factories; simple, recognizable human food.”

Registered Dietitian Kathie Swift, an integrative clinical nutritionist in Lennox, Massachusetts, and author of The Swift Diet, agrees that food is powerful medicine. She recommends a balanced, flexitarian diet founded on plants, but including high-quality, animal-sourced foods. Just shifting our processed-foods to whole-foods ratio yields an improved mood, Swift says, which continues to motivate dietary change.

Prebiotic/Probiotic Potential

Recent science suggests a deeper meaning to the “gut feeling” adage.

Bacteria in the gut and neurochemicals in the brain communicate intimately and bidirectionally via the vagus nerve, explains Swift. Altering the gut’s microbial population, whether from chronic stress, antibiotic overuse or nutritional deficiencies, can change brain chemistry

NaturalWestMichigan.com

and thereby influence mood, mental clarity and sleep, she says.

In 2013, Canadian researchers altered both the neurochemicals and behavior in mice by switching their intestinal microbiota; anxious mice given the microbes of intrepid mice became braver, and vice versa. Another small study in the British Journal of Nutrition showed a decrease in depression and anxiety symptoms in volunteers taking probiotics for a month.

Essentially, says Swift, “We have a brain in the belly,” which must be nourished by both prebiotics (soluble fiber) and probiotics (fermented food). “Fiber is the quintessential substance to feed the lovely community of bugs in the gut,” says Swift, “while fermented foods interact with resident bacteria and give them a boost.” She recommends a variety of vegetables as a primary source of fiber, especially legumes, along with fruits, nuts, cheese and the occasional gluten-free whole grain. Probiotic foods include fermented vegetables, kefir, yogurt with live active cultures and apple cider vinegar.

B Happy

Most psychiatric medications target feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, says Ramsey, but the body also manufactures these chemicals naturally during the methylation cycle, a B-vitamin-dependent neurological process.

“B vitamins are superstars of the brain,” Ramsey says. “Think of them as lubrication for the brain’s gears.”

Folate, or vitamin B9 is particularly important to healthy nervous system functioning. A meta-analysis of 15,000 people reported in the Journal of Epidemiology associated low folate with a higher risk of depression. Dark leafy greens like kale, spinach and Swiss chard are high in B vitamins, as are beets, eggs, lentils, beans and whole grains; helpful fruits include papaya, avocado and berries.

Omega-3s Please

“It’s a horrible notion that fat is bad,” says Ramsey.

Swift agrees, noting, “We need a major renovation and reeducation of this important neuro-nutrient.” The

integrity of a neuron cell membrane, which Swift describes as “a beautiful and fluid layer of lipids,” is crucial for brain health because it dictates communication among neurotransmitters. “The fat we eat becomes the fat of our cell membranes,” she says. “So nourish your membranes with adequate amounts of the right types of fat.”

Long-chain omega-3s (DHA) docosahexaenoic acid and (EPA) eicosapentaenoic acid build and protect neurons, help prevent cognitive decline with age and can boost overall mood and mental performance, says Ramsey. A study in the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry found that treating depressed patients with omega-3 EPA was as equally effective as Prozac. “DHA

and EPA are the two most important fats for brain health on the planet, period,” states Ramsey.

Foods rich in omega-3s include fatty seafood like salmon, mussels and oysters, plus sea vegetables, walnuts, flaxseed and grass-fed beef. For vegetarians and vegans, Ramsey recommends an algal DHA supplement.

Focusing on feeding the brain doesn’t preclude staving off heart disease, obesity or diabetes. “Follow the rules of eating for brain health,” Ramsey says, “and you’ll also be slim, energized, focused and resilient.” It’s all a recipe for happiness.

Lane Vail is a freelance writer and blogger at DiscoveringHomemaking.com.

Good-Mood Meal Plans Wild-Caught Alaskan Salmon with Sautéed Swiss Chard, Pickled Beets and Banana-Avocado Pudding Salmon is an excellent source of omega3s, and Swiss chard offers fiber and folate. Beets are high in folate, as well as nitrites, which improve circulation throughout the body and the brain, says Nutritionist Kathie Swift. Double-down on beets’ power by eating them pickled in apple cider vinegar, promoting healthy gut flora. Bananas contain tryptophan, an amino acid involved in serotonin production, and avocados are high in folate and oleic acid, a model unsaturated omega-9 fat needed for healthy brains, advises Dr. Drew Ramsey.

Lentil Salad with Hummus, Grilled Asparagus, Broccoli, Red Onion and Grilled Watermelon Lentils, chickpeas and asparagus are high in fiber and B vitamins, while walnuts add omega-3s. Broccoli is an excellent source of chromium, a mineral found to lower blood sugar and reduce symptoms of depression in some people, according to a Cornell University study. Grilled onions (along with garlic, which can be blended into hummus) belong to a food family called alliums that promote healthy vascular function and blood flow to the brain and also contain a high concentration of chromium, says Ramsey.

Watermelon’s red color is due to its high concentration of the antioxidant lycopene, which helps resolve free radical damage, inflammation and hormone imbalances associated with depression, notes Swift.

Grass-Fed Beef with Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Kale and Greek Yogurt Swirled with Raspberries A British Journal of Nutrition study showed that beef raised on chlorophyllrich grass provides more omega-3s than grain-fed beef. Like other animal proteins, beef is a significant source of tryptophan. Kale and sweet potatoes contribute fiber, folate and vitamin A, which promotes the enzymes that create the pleasure neurotransmitter, dopamine. Yogurt is also high in tryptophan, and raspberries provide folate and antioxidants.

Free-Range Egg Omelet with Spinach, Tomatoes, Cheese and Fresh Papaya Eggs are a power-packed food full of B vitamins, tyrosine and tryptophan amino acids, plus selenium, zinc and iodide, micronutrients vital for proper functioning of the energy- and metabolism-regulating thyroid, says Ramsey.

Tomatoes and natural cheese are high in lycopene and tryptophan, respectively, and spinach and papaya are packed with folate and fiber. natural awakenings

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healthykids For children 12 and older, supplement with fish oil containing 1,200 milligrams (mg) of (DHA) docosahexaenoic acid and (EPA) eicosapentaenoic acid combined.

Try magnesium. Low levels of magnesium, also known as the calming mineral, are associated with restless legs, anxiety and irritability—all of which can exacerbate ADHD. For kids ages 4 to 8, start with 130 mg of magnesium in the morning. If the child has trouble sleeping, another dose before bed may help.

Reduce the dose if loose stools occur.

EASE ADHD NATURALLY

Nine Ways to Help Restore Calm and Focus

by Jenna Blumenfeld

Boost B vitamins. Vitamins B6 and B12 are important building blocks for brain neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Deficiency can impair nerve cell communication, hindering memory, focus and attention. Encourage a child to eat B-packed organic foods like eggs, poultry, bell peppers, yams and spinach, and sprinkle B-vitamin-rich nutritional yeast on dishes like noodles and soup.

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lthough experts aren’t certain why it occurs, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 3 to 5 percent of school-age children, causing symptoms such as inattentiveness, frenetic activity, anxiety and forgetfulness. Kids with ADHD typically respond to drug prescriptions designed to provide calm and focus, but some carry unpleasant side effects like appetite changes and muscle spasms.

Experts suggest considering these natural options to complement an afflicted child’s integrative treatment plan.

Nutritionist Sara Vance, owner, Rebalance Life, San Diego, California.

Up omega-3s. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that recent studies show kids with behavior problems have low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids, a nutrient vital for brain health. Children’s daily diets should contain omega-3-rich foods, such as chia, hemp, nuts and fatty fish.

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Join us for the 4th Annual Conference

Nourishing Our Roots and Healing From the Ground Up June 5, 6 and 7, 2015 (preconference workshops on June 5 begin at 9:30am)

Held at Camp Helen Brachman in Almond, WI A retreat and learning space offering workshops for women new to herbalism, as well as experienced herbalists. Preconference immersions, 40 workshops, plant walks, drumming, dancing, red tent, movie screenings, talent show, kids and teens herbal camps, herbal marketplace, delicious local food, community and much more!

Experience herbal wisdom the Wise Woman way!

Featured Guests: Dr. Jody Noe and Lesley Tierra Registration for the weekend as well as preconference workshops is available on our website:

NaturalWestMichigan.com

www.midwestwomensherbal.com

Naturopathic Doctor Laurie Brodsky, e-consultant, DrLaurieND.com, New York City.

Give up gluten. Gluten is a complex, gooey conglomeration of many proteins that sticks to the digestive tract, often stimulating behavioral issues. When gluten inflames a child’s digestive system, brain inflammation likely occurs, as well. Look for gluten-free pasta, bread, crackers and cookies made from rice, quinoa, flaxseed and non-GMO (genetically modified) corn.

Avoid processed foods. High-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors such as Yellow 5, Blue 1 and Red 40 are linked to increased hyperactivity in children.

Choose whole, real foods like whole grains and organic meats, vegetables and fruits. Use maple syrup rather than white sugar to sweeten foods—it’s fullflavored, so a little goes a long way.

tive by nature, may be harsh or limiting. But these children actually thrive with boundaries. Rather than offer kids unlimited choices, give them two or three options. This helps a child feel safe. Regard a troubled child as scared, rather than angry—this will enable parents and caregivers to speak to them with compassion.

Behavior Specialist Margit Crane, educator, GiftedWithADD. com, Seattle, Washington.

Pair fats with food. Healthy brain function requires a proper ratio of antiinflammatory omega-3 fats to the more common inflammatory omega-6 fats (found in canola, soybean and corn oils).

Encourage balance by eating omega-3 foods at mealtime, when the gallbladder releases bile into the digestive system, allowing better omega-3 absorption.

Lead by example. Parents have more power to handle their child’s ADHD than they think. Model the desired behaviors—if children are not allowed to eat in the living room, the rule should apply to the whole family. Maintaining consistent rules is vital.

Work with teachers. Some children with ADHD may have trouble fitting into traditional schools. When speaking with teachers, use collaborative words such as “partnership” to obtain healthy cooperation. Teachers have an entire class to attend to, not just this child; address them with respect and understanding, and everyone will ultimately benefit.

Set boundaries. Many parents and teachers believe that boundaries for ADHD-laden kids, that are often sensi-

Jenna Blumenfeld is the senior food editor at New Hope Natural Media, in Boulder, Colorado.

Copyrighted 2014. Penton Media. 114554:1214BN.

Nutritional therapy works best when you can absorb the nutrition.

Fix the gut FIRST. The digestive system is a huge part of the immune system. If your gut isn’t working, how can you be healthy?

Clear out the garbage with a Digestive Rehabilitation Program. Remove the bad. bacteria and fungus with DUT, re-seed the gut with pro-biotics, repair the lining with healing herbs.

Immune Problems • Joint Problems Skin Problems • Stomach Pain • Ulcers Reflux • Constipation • Crohn’s • IBS Celiac Disease • SIBO Knock out a persistent urinary tract infection in 36 hours - with no antibiotics!

Order online at MyNaturesRite.com or call 800-991-7088 natural awakenings

February 2015

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$ave Time & Energy!

Please call in advance to ensure that the event you’re interested in is still available.

ALL MONTH LONG

Chocolate Facial Special- Enjoy a chocolate facial for $65. Mention Natural Awakenings and receive an additional $5 off. Lakeshore Natural Skin Care, Holland Twp/Zeeland. 231-557-3619.

LakeshoreNaturalSkinCare.com.

Garden Of Life Demo- Garden of Life will be doing demonstrations once a month at Nature’s Market, 1013 Washington Ave, Holland. Contact Nature’s Market at 616-394-5250 or visit NaturesMarketHolland.com to find out which day they’ll be there each month.

Vendor Registration- Booth rental and presentation spots now open for registration for the all-inclusive Healthy Living Expo at the Lakes Mall in Muskegon. The expo is on April 25 from 11am-7pm.

Share your natural product/healthy service or art!

RimeTimeProductions.com.

47th Annual Poetry Competition- Submit poetry entries to Kent County Dyer-Ives Poetry Competition (specify appropriate division on envelope) P.O. Box 6504, Grand Rapids, MI 49516. For poetry contest guidelines and eligibility requirements, visit Dyer-Ives.org.

New Year’s Cleanse- Receive 20% off any 7- or 30day in-house or self-guided cleanse at Grand Rapids Natural Health. GRNaturalHealth.com. 616-2646556. 638 W. Fulton St., SW, Ste. B, Grand Rapids.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1

Animal Massage Class-10am-4pm. Join Bodhi Tree & Wellness Studio for an Animal Massage Class. 208 W. 18th St., Holland. For more information or to register, visit nwsam.com or call 616-392-7580.

Sextegrity- 1-4pm. Between the teachings of “sex is sin” and “sex is sport” is a place where we can celebrate our sexuality while treating it with moral integrity. To register, go to TheSexMinister.com or call 616-502-2078. Costs $25 which includes a book. Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Ground Hog Day Guided Meditation and Healing Center- 7:458:45pm. Escape from the stress and strains of life and discover an inner world of calm, peace and joy.

During this guided meditation, energy healing will be given to each participant by Healing in Americatrained practitioners. $5. Info: 269-929-6796. Satya Yoga, 439 Butler St., Saugatuck.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4 World Cancer Day Health & Wellness Talks- 6:15pm. Hear from Dr. Mike Morea as he informs and teaches you about

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West Michigan Edition

calendarofevents 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.

Denotes an event sponsored by Natural Awakenings Magazine West Michigan.

chiropractic as a lifestyle. RSVP at 231-865-7474 and receive a lite dinner and thank you gift. Event is open to public and current patients. Morea Chiropractic Wellness Center, 388 N Third St. Ste. L Fruitport.

Guided Meditation and Healing Circle- 7-8pm.

Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation and energy healing from Healing in America-Trained Healers. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 Beltline Ct., NE, Grand Rapids.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5

How and why to Meditate- 6-8pm. This class will help you calm yourself down so you can have a clearer mind. There are many ways to meditate. We will teach and do different meditations for different situations.

Bring a blanket or pillow to sit on. RSVP at: 989-3526500. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. Lakeview.

MomsBloom Volunteer Training- 6:30pm. Learn how to help moms after a baby is born and help families get off to the best start possible. Be a part of the village that raises a child. Email Angie@momsbloom. org for more information or to register. BRAINS, 3292 North Evergreen Dr. NE Grand Rapids.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Women’s Heart Health Day (Wear Red Day) SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7

Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia- 11am-noon.

Experience what Nexalin Technology can do for you. For more information, call Susie of Bethesda Health and Wellness at 616-594-9005 or visit Nexalin.com. Held at Bodhi Tree Yoga, 208 W 18th Street, Holland.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8

ECKANKAR- 10-11am. All are invited to the monthly ECK Worship Service to discover how to bring God into our everyday life. Services are the second Sunday of each month. Free. Dominican Center at Marywood, Room 4, 2025 E Fulton, Grand Rapids, 616-245-7003, Eck-Mi.org.

Sunday Worship & Youth Services- 10:30am. Life is frustrating. For those seeking spiritual truth, come join our warm, inviting, New Thought, spiritual community, inclusive and accepting of all with Rev. Dick Ammons and musician, Ray Gordon. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave. NW, Grand Rapids.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Colloidal Silver- 6:30pm. Find out what it is, why we need it, how it works, how it’s made, whether it’s safe or not and more at Nature’s Market.

Sign up in store or call 616-394-5250 to reserve your spot. 1013 S. Washington Ave., Holland.

NaturesMarketHolland.com.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12

Reiki I & II Class- 9am-5pm. Introduction to Reiki, become attuned to the universal energy, learn how to give treatment to self and others and meet your Reiki guide. Class fee is $250. The fee includes a $50 deposit due at registration. Call to register, 616-443-4225. NITE, 503 Broadway, Mt. Pleasant.

Freshen Up Your Makeup- 3-9pm. Call 616-7190610 to reserve your spot for this fun makeover event! Cost is $20. First twelve people to register are entered into a drawing for a free $39 gift from Serendipite. Organic refreshments, free gift with minimum purchase! Serendipite Organiques 959 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids.

Intro to Astrology- 6-8pm. An intro into Astrology so you know what it really is and what you need to learn to get the answers you need about yourself and your loved ones. Learning more about Astrology will be in future classes later if interested. RSVP at 989-352-6500.

TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. Lakeview.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Valentine’s Day SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Sunday Worship & Youth Services- 10:30am.

Come join our warm, inviting, New Thought spiritual community, inclusive and accepting of all, for Sunday Service with guest speaker, Bill Diedrich and West Michigan’s own Carol Johnson for music. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave. NE, Grand Rapids.

Healing Energy Circle- 7-8pm. Following a discussion with Interfaith Pastor Sherry Petro-Surdel from 6-7pm, join us in a Healing Energy Circle at 7pm to promote wellness for ourselves and others. Join us for all or part of the gathering. Call 616-836-1555 for more information. All healing modalities are welcome, Spirit-Space.org. Saugatuck.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16 President’s Day Sing Song Yoga- Noon-12:30pm for ages 2-6, 12:45-1:30pm for ages 6-11. Introduce your children to the joys of yoga in an age-appropriate class full of music, movement and merriment! Learn more and register on-line at GRYoga.com. The Yoga Studio, 959 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Mardi Gras World Human Spirit Day Grand Opening- 6-9:30pm. Learn about Ayurveda and the new School of Ayurveda. Meet friends and fellow students. Enjoy an evening of festivities, film,

food, fun and fellowship. Free. Sambodh Center, 6363 N. 24th St., Kalamazoo.

The Fuss About Protein- 6:30pm. This seminar will provide information to help you choose a protein that will empower you to achieve your goals for optimum nutrition, weight loss and strength. RSVP by calling 616-896-6630. Harvest Health Foods, 4150 32nd Ave., Hudsonville.

Foodie Film Series- 6:30-9:30pm. Watch the film “Food Chains” and learn about the power supermarkets have in people’s lives. Consider your food source and your position as a consumer as the film shows the story of exploited farmworkers fighting for a fair wage and fair treatment. Grand Rapids Downtown Market, Grand Rapids.

Good Digestion, Good Health- 7-8pm. Discuss how to heal the gut and keep it healthy, how the gut is integral to the immune system and various ways to detox and cleanse.. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 E. Beltline Ct. NE Grand Rapids. 616-361-9221.

HolisticCareApproach.com.

Sunday Worship & Youth Services- 10:30am.

Come join our warm, inviting, New Thought spiritual community, inclusive and accepting of all, for Sunday Service with guest speaker Tom Zinser and 2012 Jazz Musician of the Year, Mark Kahny. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave. NE, Grand Rapids.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26

Broga (bro-yoga)- 6:45-7:45pm. Intro to yoga just for guys! $50 for the 4 week series, starting Feb 24th. Learn the basics of yoga and see how it will help you in athletic endeavors and all aspects of life.

Register in advance, 616-392-7580. MiBodhiTree. com. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th St. Holland.

Reiki Share- 6-8pm. Come check out what Reiki is all about, and have a mini session done. Open to those that know Reiki and those that don’t. Donations welcome. Contact to register 616-443-4225.

The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr. Ste. N, Grand Rapids.

How to Create Everything You Desire- 6-8pm. Come learn why we have programmed ourselves to achieve failure and how to recreate success in our lives. This is the year of appreciation. Let’s learn why it is. RSVP at 989-352-6500. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com.

Lakeview.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Ash Wednesday THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19

Know your Crystals- 6-8pm. Want to know which stones or crystals do what? This class will be a great eye opener. They are so much fun. Learn how they talk to you and how to use them. RSVP at 989-3526500. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com. Lakeview.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21

Writing as a Spiritual Practice for Women - 9am1pm. Write yourself home to self and Spirit in the company of kindred women who know the power of the written word for enhancing self-awareness and deepening one’s inner life. No writing/journaling experience required. Domincan Center at Marywood, Grand Rapids.

Open House- 9am-1pm. Midwifery Matters invites you to their new Community Center for a family friendly event to see their newly renovated space.

Meet community business owners and ask questions about the potential of this office to increase your business! Midwifery Matters, 6293 Kenowa Ave. SW, Grandville.

Reiki I & II Class- 9am-5pm. Introduction to Reiki, become attuned to the universal energy, learn how to give treatment to self and others and meet your Reiki guide. Class fee is $250. The fee includes a $50 deposit due at registration. Call to register, 616-443-4225. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr., Grand Rapids.

Vision Board Workshop- 1-4pm. What do you want in your life? What images represent your dreams and intentions for yourself? What words inspire you to move forward? Capture them by creating a vision board! All materials provided. Space is limited, please RSVP by calling 269-221-1961 or email CaseyBrian333@Outlook.com. Kalamazoo.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Advanced Reiki Class- 9am-5pm. Enhance energy work to a new level. Learn how to perform psychic surgery and how to set up and utilize a crystal grid with energy work. Class fee is $275 with a $50 deposit due at registration. Call to register, 616443-4225. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr., Grand Rapids.

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Healing Circle- 6:30-8pm. Join other like-minded people, as we explore various healing-related fields and techniques. This will be an inter-active gathering, so bring your open minds and open hearts.

Healing Ways, 6363 N. 24th St. Kalamazoo.

WaystoHealing.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27

Kids Night Out at the Y- 5:30pm. Sylvan Learning is hosting a ‘Kids’ Night Out’ party at the Muskegon Family YMCA! Fun activities to boost your kids’ brain power including a free coding and robotics course! Call the YMCA for more information at 616-722-9322. Or call Lisa at Sylvan Learning 616-799-0613. Muskegon.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Free Robotics Course- 9:30am. For kids grades 2 through 6, Sylvan Learning of Muskegon is introducing exciting new STEM programs. Try our Robotics class for free! Parents are invited to stay for the class. Call to RSVP today. Space is limited.

231-799-0613. 5890 Harvey St., Muskegon.

Seeds & Microgreens Class- 1-2:30pm. Browse seed catalogs and learn how to select seeds based on: early, middle, or late season; frost hardiness; heirloom or hybrid identification; and disease resistance. Each family will take home a tray of microgreens they seeded themselves. Grand Rapids Downtown Market, Grand Rapids. 616-805-5308, Info@DowntownMarketGR.com.

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savethedate March 12

Bach Flowers- 6-8pm. Have you ever wanted to control your emotional needs, but not sure of what you need? If so, this is the class for you. Learn how to pick the right flower for different emotional situations. This is just a beginning of something wonderful. RSVP at: 989-3526500. TheHealingCenterOfLakeview. com. Lakeview.

Introduction to Zero Balancing Class- 7-9pm. Learn the basics of Zero Balancing with this class. Class held at Holistic Care Approach, 3368 E. Beltline Ct. NE, Grand Rapids. For more information, call 800-987-1368 or email LindaSquiresDC@gmail.com.

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West Michigan Women’s Expo - Over 400 exhibits and seminars tailored to women and their families, focusing on health, beauty, fitness, fashion, finance and fun! Tickets available at the door or in advance at Meijer. KohlerExpo.com.

Devos Place, Grand Rapids.

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Save The Date Events

March 26

Must be submitted online each month at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Events priced $80 or above require a corresponding display ad. There is a $40 charge per listing, up to 50 words. If you are a current advertiser, distribution site or non-profit you just use this listing in place of two of your free listings.

Concert at UGGR - 7pm. Join us for a Celtic-infused, original world-beat music concert. An Dro is a union of four seasoned instrumentalists who speak from the heart with uncommon synergy.

Tickets $10 in advance. 616-819-9290.

Unity of Greater Grand Rapids, 6025 Ada Dr. SE, Ada.

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March 5

Intro to Numerology - 6-8pm. How do numbers really work? What do they mean? In this class we will show you the Hows, Whys and What fors in numbers.

Later we will have two full days of different types of Numerology if this is of interest to you. RSVP at: 989-352-6500.

TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com.

Lakeview.

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West Michigan Edition

March 28 & 29

Body Mind & Spirit Expo- Largest spirit expo to exhibit in Kalamazoo, professional mediums, intuitive communicators and healers gathered under one roof. Many free lectures, speakers & demonstrations both days.

Radisson Hotel & Suites, downtown Kalamazoo $8.00 per day, 12 & under free. HealingBodyAndSpirit.com.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

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A Weekend of Iyengar Yoga - The Yoga Studio is thrilled to be hosting Senior Iyengar teacher Mary Reilly with a workshop to cultivate awareness, bring attention with intention and celebrate presence. Find increased engagement, focus and energy in your practice!

Learn more at GRYoga.com. YWCA, 25 Sheldon Boulevard SE, Grand Rapids.

savethedate April 22

Raw Food Show - Come celebrate Earth day with Chef Adams at Nature’s Market with a raw food show where he’ll demonstrate three raw dishes.

Participants will taste and learn the nutrition benefits of eating raw. 1013 Washington Ave, Holland.

savethedate April 25

Healthy Living Expo- 11am-7pm. Plan ahead for the Healthy Living Expo at The Lakes Mall! Join us for a wide assortment of art, natural products, healthful services and more. (Vendor registration is now open.) RimeTimeProductions.com.

Muskegon.

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4th Annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference - C o n f e r e n c e o ff e r s p r e conference workshops, guest speakers, over 60 workshops and plant walks, kids and teen camp, plus swimming, evening entertainment, marketplace, red tent, film screenings, roundtable discussions on building herbal community and much more!

Held in Almond, WI. For more info: MidwestWomensHerbal.com.

ongoingevents Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries.

Events must be re-submitted each month by the 15th of the month. Events subject to change, please call ahead.

Sunday Sunday Celebration- 10am. Join our open-minded and welcoming community that honors all paths to God and helps people to explore their spiritual potential and purpose. UnityGGR.org. Unity of Greater Grand Rapids, 6025 Ada Dr. SE, Ada. Sunday Service- 10:30am. Seeking Spiritual Truth? Join our warm, inviting, New Thought spiritual community, inclusive and accepting of all and be empowered with a message based on Unity Truths. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave. NW, Grand Rapids.

Sunday Worship- 10:30am. Spirit Space is an interfaith, non-denominational gathering place for worship and spiritual enrichment. Join us for inspiring messages called Reasonings. Visit Spirit-Space.org or call 616-836-1555 for more information. Saugatuck.

Encompassed Body Experience- 1:30-3:00pm, every 3rd Sunday of the month. This 6-month series focuses on your body, mind and spirit connection.

Costs $15.00 per class or $75 if paid in advance.

For more information and registration check out MiBodhiTree.com or call 616-392-7580. 208 W 18th St., Holland.

Community Yoga Class- 4-5pm for $5. All levels welcome. Proceeds donated to the Charity of the Month. Bodhi Tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 18th Street, Holland. Visit MiBodhiTree.com for more information.

Sunday Series- 6pm. Explore spirituality, universal truths, self-mastery and balanced, positive, loving and joyful living with The Coptic Center and their ongoing offering of enlightening Ministers, Teachers and guest presenters. Love offering. 0-381 Lake Michigan Drive, Grand Rapids. For more information see TheCopticCenter.org.

Monday Practice Hatha Yoga- 6-7:30pm. Strengthen and tone, learn breathing techniques, increase your energy and promote healthy body functioning.

Sambodh Center, Kalamazoo. Guided Meditation following Yoga. Call 269-579-4091 for information.

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

Learn “Miracle-Mindedness”. Got joy? This is how to have it. (Hint: You already do.) All are welcome. Free. Fountain Street Church, Grand Rapids. 616-458-5095.

Tuesday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman7:45-9am & 9:15-10:30am. Drop-ins welcome.

Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information.

Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.

Morning Flow Yoga- 10:15-11:30am. Unwind your body and your mind. A Yoga practice intended to gradually increase flexibility, strength and a range of motion. Laketown Healing Arts, LaketownHealingArts.com, Holland.

Treat Yourself Tuesdays- 11am-6pm. Get 15% off one item of your choice! *Some items excluded.

In-store and phone orders for pick-up on another day. 616-719-0610. Serendipite Organiques, 959 Lake Dr. SE Ste. 202, Grand Rapids.

Natural Health Community Class- 2-3pm. Continuing with new series - The ABC+D Systems Approach to Wellness. Donations welcome. Contact to register 616-443-4225. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr. Ste. N, Grand Rapids.

Natural Health Community Class- 6-7pm. Continuing with new series - The ABC+D Systems Approach to Wellness. Donations welcome. Contact to register 616-443-4225. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr. Ste. N, Grand Rapids.

HypnoBirthing® Class- 6-8:30pm. Learn to appreciate the benefits of calm, gentle birthing, and have the joyful, comfortable, safe birth experience that you desire. Five-week series includes a textbook, relaxation CD and everything you need to know to reconnect with your birthing instincts.

MyBellaBirth.com. Grand Rapids.

Live Drawing for Adults- 6:30-8pm. Weekly live drawing classes for adults at Art by Era. $39 for the whole month. Email Info@ArtByEra.com for more information, or to RSVP. Grandville.

Contemplative Prayer for People in Recovery7-8:30pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Join the discussion and learn to develop and enhance your prayer life and experience through contemplative prayer practices. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 Fulton St. East, Grand Rapids.

Wednesday $20 off BioMeridian Assessments- Food allergies, environmental allergies, organ function and real food menus and shopping lists for families that are healthy and kid-approved. Visit IntegrativeNutritionalTherapies.com or 616-3659176. Grand Rapids.

Kundalini Yoga- 7-8am. Known as the “Yoga of Awareness” Kundalini yoga uses breath work, mantra and dynamic movement to help us access and express our rich inner selves. A nice balance of movement and stillness. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr., Allendale.

Chair Yoga Classes- 10:30am. Chair yoga classes include movements and breathing exercises designed to encourage relaxation and increase mo-

bility, balance and strength. This is a great gentle option for those who use a walker or wheelchair or those with limited mobility. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr., Allendale.

Practice Hatha Yoga- 6-7:30pm. Strengthen and tone, learn breathing techniques, increase your energy and promote healthy body functioning.

Sambodh Center, Kalamazoo. Guided Meditation following Yoga. Call 269-579-4091 for information.

Discussion and Meditation- 6-8pm. Discussion to promote spiritual enrichment. Questions are welcomed, followed by meditation at 7pm.

Spirit Space is an interfaith church and spiritual enrichment center. Call 616-836-1555 or visit Spirit-Space.org for more information. Saugatuck.

Mindfulness, Meditation and Mudras- 7pm.

Classes will include various mindfulness practices including: gentle movements, breathing exercises, mudras, Tratak, meditations, gong meditations and yoga nidra. Experience a quiet and gentle way to end your day. No yoga experience necessary. Hearts Journey Wellness Center, 6189 Lake Michigan Dr., Allendale.

Creation’s Lessons for Living- 7pm. 2nd Wed of month. Creation desires to help us grow, mature, evolve. Connect with Creation’s wisdom through the teachings and ceremonies of the shamanic Sweet Medicine SunDance Path. Donation. Call 616-856-4957 for more information. Join me in learning to walk in beauty. NE Grand Rapids.

Creative Movement Class- 7:15pm. This class embodies the practices of ballet, yoga and fitness to bring youth back to your step while you strengthen your core and improve coordination.

Bodhi tree Yoga & Wellness Studio, 208 W 208th Street, Holland. Visit MiBodhiTree.com or call 616-392-7580 for more information.

Thursday Morning Flow Yoga- 10:15-11:30am. Unwind your body and your mind. A Yoga practice intended to gradually increase flexibility, strength and a range of motion. Laketown Healing Arts, LaketownHealingArts.com, Holland.

Yoga Basics and Beyond Classes- Beyond Basics 5:30-6:45pm, Basics 7-8:15pm. Come cultivate flexibility, strength, and balance in your body. Calm and quiet in your mind, peace and joy in your spirit with Instructor Susan Duesbery. Grand Rapids.

Essential Oil Classes- 6-8pm. Series with the basics and then each week following going into specific sets of oils. Class fee $25 - register call 616-443-4225. The Remedy House, 5150 Northland Dr. Ste. N, Grand Rapids.

Friday Book Study- Noon-1:30pm. Book study will discuss: The Dance of the Dissident Daughter by Sue Monk Kidd. Pastor Sherry will lead the book study. Call 616-886-2716 for more information.

Spirit Space, Saugatuck.

Yin & Restorative Yoga- 4:30-6pm. Yin promotes joint flexibility, energy increase & body-mind

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health. Restorative helps lower BP, reduces stre ss and balance energy. Sambodh Center. 269-5794091. 6363 N 24th St., Kalamazoo.

Saturday H a t h a Yo g a - 9 - 1 0 : 1 5 a m . A L i t t l e m o r e invigorating, this is a great class to learn the foundations of a yoga practice. Laketown Healing Arts, LaketownHealingArts.com, Holland.

Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman– 9-10:15am & 10:30-11:45am. Drop-ins welcome.

Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for info. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio. Montague.

231-740-6662.

thenaturaldirectory ...connecting you to the leaders in natural health and green living in West Michigan. To find out how you can be included in The Natural Directory log-on to www.NaturalWestMichigan.com/advertising.

ACUPUNCTURE GRAND WELLNESS

Vikki Nestico, R.Ac., Dipl. OM Acupuncture + Chinese Herbal Therapy 616-940-1177 GrandWellness.net

Grand Wellness offers a holistic perspective on wellness and promotes healing through acupuncture, Chinese herbal therapy and eastern nutrition.

Set up a free consultation to discuss how Chinese medicine can help your specific health concerns. See ad page 29.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market- 9am-1pm.

Hackley Health at the Lakes building on Harvey Street. We are inside if the weather is bad. We are a double up bucks and bridge card market. Hesperia.

231-861-2234.

Art Classes for Kids- 2-4:30pm. Kids enjoy a $29 art classes at the Art by Era studio in Grandville, materials included. Email Info@ArtByEra.com to RSVP. Art Classes for Adults- 6-8:30pm. Looking for a fun, creative date night? Bring a beverage and enjoy a $29 art classes at the Art by Era studio in Grandville, materials included. Email Info@ ArtByEra.com to RSVP.

BIO ENERGETIC SYNCHRONIZATION TECHNIQUE B.E.S.T. ALPHABIOTICS & I CHING BALANCING Spark of Life Studio 959 Lake Dr. SE, Ste. 201, Grand Rapids 616-516-1479 SparkOfLifeStudio.com

Living organisms want to be in balance but everyday stress is preventing us from feeling our best. Let us restore balance to your body and thus maximize your well-being and your body’s own innate healing capacity. See ad page 33.

Join our Natural Awakenings group on facebook and we’ll directly alert you of upcoming happenings and events.

BODY CARE PRODUCTS MOONDROP HERBALS, LLC Cottage of Natural Elements 351 Cummings, NW Grand Rapids 616-735-1285 MoondropHerbals.com

Your Local Source for all things Natural and Botanical.

Hand crafted bath & body products, tea, bulk herbs, essential oils, other raw ingredients, containers, local artwork, unique gifts. Practitioner discounts. Space rental and artisan consignment. See ad page 18.

Find us @: Natural Awakenings Magazine of West Michigan Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.

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SÉRENDIPITÉ ORGANIQUES

959 Lake Dr SE, Ste. 2 Grand Rapids *Second Floor of Blackport Building 616-419-8115 Facebook.com/SerendipiteOrganiques Your retail location for makeup, body care, & household products that are organic, nonGMO, vegan, gluten free & cruelty-free! Products offered score ‘0-2, Low Hazard’ on Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database. See ad page 34.

BODYWORK A SENSE OF FLOW

Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 ASenseOfFlow.com Certified Massage Therapist offering Therapeutic, Hot Stone & Matrix Massage. Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Matrix E n e rg e t i c s P r a c t i t i o n e r, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, and a Certified Reflexologist. See ad page 33.

BRAIN HEALTH BETHESDA HEALTH AND WELLNESS, LLC Susie Daubenspeck 616-594-9005 sldaubenspeck@gmail.com NexalinTechnology.com

Certified technician in Nexalin Technology, a medication-free t r e a t m e n t f o r a n x i e t y, depression and insomnia. The hypothalamus and mid-brain area are gently stimulated, supporting brain function resets. Treatments in your home or Holland office. Find us on Facebook and LinkedIn at Susie Daubenspeck. See ad page 29.

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

Family owned and operated in the heart of downtown Grandville, Dynamic Family Chiropractic focuses on lifestyle improvements through living a maximized life. A safe and natural approach to health through the combination of exercise, nutrition, detoxification and chiropractic care.

SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA Dr. Andrew Schafer 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids 616-301-3000 GRChiroSpa.com

Tr e a t i n g m u s c u l o s k e l e t a l conditions, but specializing in back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Also offering physical therapy, massage therapy, and postural awareness. Most insurance accepted. Breton Village area. See ad pages 7 & 30.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY HARMONY ’N HEALTH Mary De Lange, CCT. LMT. 1003 Maryland Ave, N.E., Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 HarmonyNHealth.net

Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment.

Using a holistic approach, colonics relieves constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloat, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad page 5.

ESSENTIAL OILS

HAKOMI THERAPY KEN PORTER CST, CHT

BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILS

3355 Eagle Park Dr. NE Ste. 107 Grand Rapids 616-262-3848 BodyAndSoulGR.com

Clara VanderZouwen Independent Sharing Partner #1024 616-481-8587 ClaraVZ@sbcglobal.net ”What you put on the skin, goes within”.

Offering E.O.B.B.D. guaranteed essential oils, Non-GMO Protein Shakes, chemical free body products and nutrient dense whole food products. Zyto Compass scans and Ionic Detoxing Foot Baths. My goal is to offer you Life-Restoring and Life-Rewarding products and experiences! See ad page 32.

YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS Marilyn York Independent Distributor 1-877-436-2299, ext. 2 YoungLiving.org/naturalhealth4u

Become an Independent Distributor.

Discover the high potency of therapeutically authentic Essential Oils from Young Living. Enhance your own health, as well as others who seek holistic wellness options. Free Training.

See ad page 20.

TRICIA E. GOSLING

Holistic Energy Therapies 616-481-9074 HolisticEnergyTherapies.net Offering an advanced clientcentered dimension of colonics since 1996: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions.

I-ACT certified Instructor.

ENERGY HEALING MATRIX ENERGETICS

Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 ASenseOfFlow.com Matrix Energetics is a system used to heal, transform and create new possibilities in your life. Using the principles of quantum physics and subtle e n e rg y d u r i n g a M a t r i x Energetics session we are able to enter into different realties and download new possibilities for your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual selves. See ad page 33.

Look for this symbol throughout Natural Awakenings for Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) providers offering savings to NAN members.

FITNESS & NUTRITION MISSY HACKER FITNESS

Hakomi Therapy can truly change your life. It’s a mindfulnessbased, experiential therapy for transforming the unconscious patterns that keep you from the love, joy, and fulfillment you deserve. Offered with exquisite care and attentiveness.

HEALING SERVICES THE REMEDY HOUSE

Jodi Jenks Natural Health Practitioner, Reiki Master 616-443-4225 TheRemedyHouse.org Certified in bodywork, lymphatic drainage, raindrop therapy, CranioSacral, reflexology, iridology, natural health consultations including a zyto bio-communication scan. Emotional clearing with essential oils and energy work, Reiki, Energy Touch. See ad page 29.

HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER THE WELLNESS FORUM

MelissAHacker@gmail.com Facebook.com/MissyCoates MissyHackerFitness.com

616-430-2291 WellnessForum.com

A fitness and nutrition coach, making your health and fitness a priority. Plans for people of all ages and fitness levels. Offering many free options, as well as cost effective solutions.

Contact Missy to see how to achieve your optimal level of health & fitness.

TRUE FORM HOLISTIC HEALTH AND FITNESS

1140 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids 616-889-9825 TrueFormGR@gmail.com YourTrueForm.com NAMA Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and Personal Trainer. Ayurvedic consultations for better health and balance through diet, lifestyle, herbs, exercise and more. Fitness regimens that are tailored to your unique needs. Exercise with a higher purpose. See ad page 18.

Educational programs for personal health improvement - Wo r k p l a c e w e l l n e s s programs - Wellness Forum Foundation focused on school nutrition and children’s health - National conferences.

HEALTH / WELLNESS CENTER THE HEALING CENTER

Bob Huttinga PA-C & Rev. Barbara Huttinga 332 S. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview 989-352-6500 TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com Naturopathic / Holistic Practitioners. Physician assistant, Certified Natural Health Professionals. Private consultations. Counseling & Classes. Blood typing, acupressure, emotional release, iridology, homeopathy, massage therapy, reflexology, cranial sacral, foot detox & more. See ad in page 37.

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HOLISTIC HEALTH

MASSAGE THERAPY

HEALING WAYS

DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY

Pastor & Casey Brian Kalamazoo & Portage 269-221-1961 WaysToHealing.com Massage Therapy, Energy Healing, Spiritual Counsel, Healing Services for Groups and more. We fully support you in experiencing Healing in all aspects of your life: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual...

HOMEOPATHY

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

332 S. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview 989-352-6500 TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com A Certified Physician Assistant since 1976, specializing in naturopathic and homeopathic care.

Family care. Also, certified Silva Method instructor. We use Clinical Homeopathy to assist traditional medications.

We take most insurances. See ad page 37.

INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES ALIGN DESIGN, LLC

Shawn Merkel, ASID 616-916-1071 shawnmerk@gmail.com AlignDesignGR.com Complete Interior Design Services for your home or business. Specializing in creating, harmonious, nurturing spaces, by incorporating feng shui principals and repurposing your existing treasures. Let your space become a reflection of who you are. See ad page 9.

Over 21 years of professional experience and trained in a complete range of modalities.

Whether you are seeking relaxation, renewal, or treatment for a specific condition, Mary will help find an approach that is helpful for you. See ad page 5.

SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA

Sheri Beth Schafer, CMT Ayurvedic Bodyworker, Reiki Master 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids 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 pages 7 & 30.

MIDWIFERY FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERY SERVICE, INC.

KINESIOLOGY A SENSE OF FLOW

Patrice Bobier CPM Hesperia: 231-861-2234 FullCircleMidwifery.com

Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 ASenseOfFlow.com Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Matrix E n e rg e t i c s P r a c t i t i o n e r, Certified Massage Therapist, Reconnection Healing P r a c t i t i o n e r, C e r t i f i e d Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner and Certified Reflexologist. Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling, lectures and classes. See ad page 33.

West Michigan Edition

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.

HARMONY ‘N HEALTH

BOB HUTTINGA PA-C

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Jaci Timmermans, MT 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050 DynamicChiro.com

In private practice since 1982 specializing in homebirth. Over 1450 births attended.

Offering midwifery care that maintains a family-centered safe birth experience. Empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy, give birth naturally and parent in the best ways. Free initial consultations including Prenatal check up.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

MIDWIFERY MATTERS Leslie Cornwell, CNM 616-258-2386 Midwifery-Matters.com

Looking for different care for your pregnancy outside the traditional maternity system, we have what you have been looking for. High quality care for preconception, pregnancy, and beyond. See ad page 8.

SIMPLY BORN

Sara Badger, Midwife Jodi Borsk, Junior Midwife Casi Russo, Senior Student SimplyBorn@yahoo.com A full service Midwifery group partnering with you to provide prenatal care, education, and choice. The first birthing center in Grand Rapids to add to women’s birth choices. Contact us for a free consultation 559-9075341. See ad page 47.

REIKI PRANA HOUSE REIKI & MASSAGE Jen Gemski, CMT Reiki Master Practitioner 1345 Monroe Ave. NE Ste. 204 616-970-3003

Facebook.com/PranaHouseReikiMassage Find relief from anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, or pain/ discomfort due to cancer treatment. See how Reiki can transform your life from chaos to harmony, you can find balance again! Awaken the healing within. See ad page 30.

SALON SERVICES CJ’S STUDIO SALON 5286 Plainfield Ave, NE Grand Rapids 616-364-9191 CjsStudioSalon.com

An award winning Hair Stylist with 30 years Advanced Education, that uses and sells Organic Hair Care Products as well as uses a professional line of Organic Hair Color.

Ionic Detox Foot Baths also available.

SKIN CARE

SCHOOL / EDUCATION BVI SCHOOL OF AYURVEDA Attn: Ruth Small, Director 6363 N. 24th St., Kalamazoo IndiaInk@charter.net

Sambodh.us/SS/abtVedicInst/abtVedicInst.html

State-Licensed Post-Secondary AYURVEDA SCHOOL Opening Spring 2015. One-year Certificate Program: healthcare/wellness educators and professionals, yoga teachers, massage therapists, chiropractors, dieticians, holistichealth advocates, and self-care.

Highly qualified Instructors.

Accepting Applications.

INSTITUTE OF SANATIVE ARTS

0-11279 Tallmadge Woods Dr. Grand Rapids 616-791-0472 Info@SanativeTranquility.com SanativeTranquility.com

10500 Chicago Drive Holland Twp/Zeeland 231-557-3619 LakeshoreNaturalSkinCare.com Specializing in advanced, customized skin care using all-natural, organic skin care products from Elina Organics.

Facials, Back Facials, Foot Facials, Hand Facials, Tummy Facials, and “Beautiful Legs” services. Needle-Free Mesotherapy, TriPolarRF, DermaLaser, LED, Microdermabrasion, Peels, Body Wraps, Body Scrubs, Brow Shaping, Aromatherapy, Signature Scent, Hair Restoration, Bamboo Massage, RainDrop, Air Compression Lymph Drainage Massage, Acupressure, Reiki, Infrared and Ionic Cleanses, Ear Candling, and more! See ad page 18.

SACRED SKIN CARE

State licensed school for massage and bodywork.

Offering high quality, affordable massage certification courses as well as NCBTMB continuing education courses for the experienced therapist. Located conveniently to Grand Rapids, Standale, Walker and Allendale.

NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION

503 East Broadway St. Mt. Pleasant 989-773-1714 Contact@NaturopathicInstitute.info NaturopathicInstitute.info

Educational Programs Offered: Natural Health Program - Four Years (one weekend a month); Massage Therapy Program - One Year (two weekends a month); Holistic Doula Practitioner Program - Six Months (one weekend a month). Individual classes available. See ad page 48.

Grand Rapids SE 616-690-3527 Kathy@SacredSkinCaregr.com Facebook.com/SacredSkinCare ”Rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit while nourishing your skin with customized, therapeutic facials using all natural Elina Organics Products.

Individualized, professional treatments provided in a warm, caring environment”.

SCREEN PRINTING GREEN INK WORKS

3637 Clyde Park Ave., Ste. 2 Wyoming 616-254-7350 Dan@GreenInkWorks.com Custom screen printed apparel using water-based and discharge inks. Earth friendlier screen printing with a different look and feel. Also offering promotional products with an emphasis on the environment.

Dip a Brush into Your Soul art education for all ages

www.artbyera.com artbyera@gmail.com

classifieds

LAKESHORE NATURAL SKIN CARE

Our art school is an open, creative space where we share our love of art.

To place a Classified Listing: E-mail listing to Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com.

Must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. $1.00 per word; must be pre-paid.

CLASSES Energy Healings and Training, Reiki & Urevia Healings/Classes - held near Hastings at Subtle Energies w/ Ken & Dana Gray. Learn a variety of techniques that can heal your life. Reiki I & Urevia Practitioner classes are eligible for NAN 20% discount. Visit www.reikiconnect.com for more information.

FOR RENT Space For Rent - Grand Rapids Natural Health is expanding our office space in February 2015 and moving to downtown Grand Rapids.

We are looking for other health and wellness professionals to join us. Space is rented by day, front desk staff and scheduling included in rent.

Contact Kelly Hassberger for more details, 616540-0723 or KHassberger@gmail.com.

Treatment Room for Rent -in a established organic salon. Rent includes water heat and electric. Email cjsstudiosalon@yahoo.com

HELP WANTED Ad Sales Rep – Natural Awakenings is now accepting resumes for Part/Full Time Sales Reps throughout the West Michigan area. Must be self-motivated with strong organizational skills, sales and computer/database experience. We’re positive people looking for positive associates.

Flexible schedule with great earning potential.

Pay is set up on a generous full commission structure with bonuses. Email cover letter and resume to Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com.

How You Birth Matters!

Sara Badger, Midwife Jodi Borsk, Junior Midwife Casi Russo, Senior Student

A full service Midwifery group partnering with you to provide prenatal care, education and choice.

Personal Prenatal Care ~ Nutritional Counseling ~ Labor & Birth Support Postpartum Care ~ Resources for Education ~ Water Birth Options

Contact us for a FREE Consultation The 1st Birthing House/Center in Grand Rapids to add to Women’s Birth Choices!

(559) 907-5341 ~ SimplyBorn@yahoo.com natural awakenings

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