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contents 14
26
8 globalbriefs
11 healthbriefs
14 wisewords 18 consciouseating 20 fitbody
31
26 healthykids 31 naturalpets
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
14 A CONVERSATION
WITH SHAKTI GAWAIN
Author and Counselor in Prosperity Consciousness
by Ellen Mahoney
18 NATURAL DEFENSE
Top 10 Whole Foods to Counter Aging
by Gary Null
20 MOVEMENT advertising & submissions
20
AS MEDICINE A Universal
Antidote to Aging
by Katy Bowman
How to Advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 616-656-9232 or email: Publisher@ NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for space reservation is the 12th of each month prior to publication.
News Briefs & article submissions Email articles to: Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for articles is the 5th of the month prior to publication. Submit News Briefs online at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for news briefs is the 12th of the month prior to publication.
calendar submissions Submit Calendar Events online at: NaturalWestMichigan.com. Calendar deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication.
WHERE TO PICK UP NATURAL AWAKENINGS If you enjoyed this magazine and would like to know where you can pick up a free copy in your area, please contact us at 616656-9232 or email us at: publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com
22 ENVISIONING
THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE
by Lisa Marshall
24 BREAKTHROUGHS IN ANTI-AGING Research Helps Us Live
by Lisa Marshall
24
26 GUARDING
AGAINST AUTISM How Environmental Toxins May Contribute to Autism Spectrum Disorder
and much more online... MORE... healthbriefs, globalbriefs, news, articles, archives, calendar, classifieds, natural directory & more!
22
Longer and Healthier
by Brita Belli
32 YOGA DAY USA
NaturalWestMichigan.com natural awakenings
January 2010
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letterfrompublishers
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contact us Publishers Kyle & Amy Hass Editors MaryAnn Lawrence S. Alison Chabonais Linda Sechrist Design & Production Interactive Media Design Scott Carvey
Printer Newsweb 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. © 2009 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 for 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.
his first edition of the New Year is dedicated to our loyal advertisers, without whom this magazine would not be possible, and to our thousands of enthusiastic readers old and new. It was just a year ago that Kyle and I became the proud new owners of Natural Awakenings–West Michigan. Now, here we are celebrating our first anniversary as publishers in the New Year and looking forward to many more years full of the blessings you share with us daily. We cherish every one of our advertisers; your ongoing support is responsible for nurturing this community connection so vital to the health of our local natural living community. We cannot thank you enough. We hope, know and pray that your businesses are on the rise and expect 2010 will be the best year ever for all of us. We are grateful for every one of our readers, who are responsible for our growing circulation for 3 ½ years and counting. We regularly hear from many of you and feel humbled by your words of appreciation and progress. Sometimes I lay in bed at night overcome with amazement that Kyle and I are able to put this magazine out there every month and at the number of people who enjoy and benefit from this gift. We love hearing your heartwarming stories of how this magazine has changed lives. We are excited to see more and more individuals catching on to Natural Awakenings and joining our family of readers. More of you continue to pick up our free magazine each month; we know because we keep printing more copies and still run out! That’s when I do a happy dance in our office, rejoicing in the hunger for natural, healthy sustainable living in West Michigan. We are here for you with guidance, resources and the connections to local experts you’re looking for on your journey of becoming a healthier, happier you. So thank you one and all for being a part of our Natural Awakenings family, now three million strong across North America. Together we are a powerful phenomenon. Here’s to a good year for all of us. Happy New Year,
Amy and Kyle Natural Awakenings on 100% recycledEdition Michigan 4is printedWest newsprint with soy based ink.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
newsbriefs A Weekend of Storytelling and Deep Listening
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he Leaven Center in Lyons, Michigan welcomes speaker, writing consultant and story artist Jenifer Strauss January 29-31. “Let A Story Be Told: A Weekend for Women to Explore, Create, Tell and Write Our Story” is a weekend of storytelling and deep listening. Strauss will guide participants through her personal narrative model called Turning Points™, a series of explorative and overlapping storytelling activities that lead to the telling (and writing) of Turning Points Jenifer Strauss that have caused great learning, growth, and change. A four-day retreat for women writers follows the workshop with special package pricing available. Strauss is a former educator and founder of Story Be Told Productions. In affiliation with Cygnus Storytelling, she has produced “Telling Stories: A Storytelling Handbook,” and the CD “U Tell A Tale: Stories Told Through-U,” produced for the Institute on Media and the Family’s early childhood program. This fall, Strauss released “Michigan Legends and Lore, Stories from Shore to Shore.” Cost for the weekend is $190. A limited number of partial scholarships are available. To register contact Karen D. Bota at The Leaven Center, 989-855-2606. Leaven.org. See ad page 21.
Enjoy the Liberating Freedom of Anusara Yoga
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xpressions of Grace Yoga in Grand Rapids invites students at all levels to an Anusara Weekend Workshop with Moses Brown January 22-24. “Yoga offers you insights into the favorable use of your physical, vital, emotional, mental and spiritual energies,” says Brown. “Anusara Yoga offers you the opportunity to embody this philosophy as practice every day in the world, in full relationship to the world of form and in full relationship to absolute essence; to uplift the common and ordinary and to live in a state of joy filled amazement and living in a way that keeps you feeling excited, connected, vibrant and alive.” Brown is a certified Anusara Yoga Teacher and Teacher Trainer who has been teaching nationally and internationally since 1991. His teachings create an approach that is physically dynamic, mentally stimulating and therapeutic. Brown brings focus, concentration and mindfulness to his classes, weaving them together with playfulness, joy and fun. Expressions of Grace Yoga is located at 5270 Northland Drive NE, in Grand Rapids. Register at 616-361-8580 or ExpressionsofGraceYoga.com. See ad page 17 & 20.
360 Massage & Holistic Care Celebrates Anniversary
360 Massage and Holistic Care celebrate its first year anniversary. Established by medical massage therapists Nichole Caudle and Carly Starin, the practice specializes in medical massage, nutrition consultations, ionic detox/ cleanses, herbal medicine and Reiki treatments. Both Caudle and Starin shared the same vision of having a place for people to receive holistic heath services and a place that would empower the community to be their own advocates towards their health care. Today, 360 Massage and Holistic Care also employs massage therapist Daniel Smith and Kevin Collins, a massage therapist intern in training. Over the past year, 360 Massage has worked closely with area companies and those representing fitness and active lifestyles. Caudle and Starin say this year the massage clinic will expand its herbal products line and will make purchasing available online. 360 Massage and Holistic Care is located at 1514 Wealthy Street SE, Ste, 210, in Grand Rapids. 616-242-0034. 360massage.com. Follow 360 on Facebook for special events and discounts See ad page 28 & 30.
Joe Reilly Helps Us “Touch the Earth” in New CD
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ichigan singer and songwriter Joe Reilly offers a musical collage of spiritually based earth justice in his new CD “Touch the Earth.” Reilly’s much anticipated fifth solo album follows the successful debut of his children’s CD, “Children of the Earth,” released in the fall of 2007. Featuring several Michigan artists and a handful of musiJoe Reilly cal genres, “Touch the Earth” stays true to Reilly’s style and musical message – music that strengthens community while embracing diversity, inspires listeners to experience the inter-connection with each other
Mary a. delange C.C.T. C.M.T. Colon HydroTHerapy Some Benefits of Colon Therapy are: • Remove toxic waste from ones body • Eradicate constipation • Removes stomach bloat • Increases ones energy Therapeutic Massage P: 616.456.5033 E: mary@harmonynhealth.net www.harmonynhealth.net
natural awakenings
January 2010
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and their environment, and invites them to look deeper and to connect with the positive aspects in their own nature. Like his “Planting Gardens” release of 2006, “Touch the Earth” showcases true genre diversity, taking listeners through an intriguing landscape of rock (Keep It Easy, Corners Of My Mind, Heal All Sides), hip-hop (Little Tomato), country (Mama’s Song), eco-rock (Tree Meditation, Touch the Earth), and meditative balladry (Sangha Song). Reilly’s honest and powerful voice and consistent message have the unique ability to pull the eclectic mix together as well as to bring people together across diverse lines of race, class, gender, age, religion, ability and musical genres. More at JoeReilly.org
Christmas Tree Recycling
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he Grand Haven Jaycees will be out on January 9 in the Tri-Cities area picking up Christmas trees for recycling. Trees must be laid at the curb no later than 8 a.m. Contact Tony Mausen at 616-846-2942 or Jeremy Dicks at 616-516-2453 for more information.
Reflexology Class
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oin nationally known and respected Reflexology instructor Annalise Evenson for a 30- hour hand reflexology class January 14-17 at Personal Palette, 493 E. 8th Street, in Holland. Hand Reflexology is a powerful tool for health and wellness. Cost to attend is $300 and is open to everyone, but space is limited, so reserve your spot now. To register, contact W. Perry Dickinson at 616-3406865 or WPerry317@att.net. See ad page 9.
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West Michigan Edition
Insight Meditation Series
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oin Cascade Yoga Studio’s Stephanie Squibb for a year of Insight Meditation. Stephanie’s meditation series covers a variety of topics with a focus on home practice. Class meets the third Thursday of every month at Cascade Yoga Stephanie Squibb Studio beginning January 21, 2010. Cost for the entire series, which includes email support from Stephanie, is $144 for the year. Students are also welcome on a drop-in basis at $15 a class. Topics for the series include focus on breath, body sensation, and feeling tone; mind process; content process; reality; walking meditation; compassion; metta meditations; joy and equanimity; forgiveness; and birth and death. Cascade Yoga Studio is located at 5060 Cascade Rd. SE in Grand Rapids. Please call 616-464-1610 to register or for more information or visit CascadeYogaStudio.com. See ad page 16.
Farmers Market Open All Year Round
The Sweetwater Local Foods Market is Michigan’s first farmers market that exclusively sells locally grown animal products and fruits and vegetables raised in a manner that enhances biological diversity, builds soil health and promotes animal welfare. Their message is, “Healthy. Humane. Homegrown. Local food you can trust at the Sweetwater Local Foods Market.” Sweetwater Local Foods Market is located indoors at Hackley Health at the Lakes, Harvey Street, 1/2 mile south of Lakes Mall (exit US 31 at Pontaluna Road, in Muskegon.) Winter hours are 9am-1pm every other Saturday from January 9th through May. Check out our website SweetwaterLocalFoodsMarket.org.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Peace on Earth Begins At Birth
The Friends of Michigan Midwives have a primary mission of educating and informing the public about the profession of midwifery and the Midwives Model of Care. Check out their new website FriendsofMichiganMidwives.com. They also have fundraising items for sale such as a lovely calendar spotlighting home born babies around the state, as well as great t-shirts. For more information, FriendsofMichiganMidwives.com
Free Winter Appreciation Guided Snowshoe Events
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hree West Michigan snowshoe events hosted by EcoTrek Fitness will be held this month. All three are open to EcoTrekkers and those who RSVP before each event. Bring your own snowshoes or take responsibility for your own rental. Snowshoe Event #1 - SEGR & SWGR EcoTrek Series combo with Kym & Bridget. Saturday January 16 11 a.m. at Palmer Park, 1275 52nd Street, in Wyoming. Bring a dish to pass for a potluck afterward. Snowshoe Event #2 - North Kent County EcoTrek Series with Terri. Sunday January 17 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Pickerel Lake, 6001 Ramsdell, in Cannonsburg. Snowshoe Event #3 - Lakeshore EcoTrek Series with Cari, Sunday January 24 1:30 to 3:30pm at Hoffmaster State Park, 6585 Lake Harbor Road, in Norton Shores. Events will be canceled if there isn’t enough snow or if there are blizzard conditions. RSVP 616-291-2851 or Cari@EcoTrekFitness.com. See ad page 12.
1st Annual Natural Living Directory
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his letter invites you to be a part of Natural Awakenings 1st Annual Natural Living Directory for West Michigan, coming March 2010. This special annual directory of Natural Awakenings magazine will serve as a handy reference guide for consumers to keep at their fingertips all year long when searching for the products and services they want to live a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. This A to Z directory will feature a glossary to educate our health conscious readers about the benefits of various natural health modalities, sustainable products and more. Consumers trust Natural Awakenings information and its featured advertisers because we offer refreshing and educational editorial on natural health and green living. Natural Awakenings also provides the resources that support Health, Fitness, Sustainable Living, Personal Growth, and Creative Expression. This Directory is a must for businesses that offer healthy products and sustainable services. Don’t miss out on this important issue! Natural Living Directory prices: $119.00 per category listing includes 5 header lines, a 35 word description and a photo or logo. A second category is 50% off or $59.50 and a third category is FREE. Early Registration Rates – $99 for the first listing. Special pricing ends February 5th, 2010.
Call Natural Awakenings at 616-656-9232 for details, examples and to reserve your space in our Natural Living Directory.
natural awakenings
January 2010
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globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that works for all. Accommodating All
Call to Expand the Meaning of Universal Health Care
Practitioners of alternative therapies intent on influencing the health care reform process continue to petition Congress to think of health care as more than just medical care—and to allow insurance companies to provide coverage for their holistic treatments. In 2007, a survey of 18 major HMOs and insurance providers revealed signs of progress: 14 of them covered at least 11 of 34 alternative physical therapies, the most common being chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy, biofeedback and naturopathy. Coverage varies by state, but experts expect insurance policies will follow demand. Estimates put current annual spending on complementary and alternative therapies at $33 billion. President Obama has expressed willingness to at least consider a role for some alternative therapies in universal health care, but has set a tough standard. He told a town meeting in Missouri, “My attitude is that we should do what works… I will let the science guide me.” Lobby to retain the people’s right to choose their own health care at HealthRevolutionPetition.org. News sources: Time.com; SixWise.com
Micro-Volunteering Devoting Idle Moments to Good Deeds
Online “crowdsourcing,” so useful to Wikipedia.org in gathering information for its free encyclopedia, is set to benefit other types of nonprofits as well, thanks to an iPhone app piloted by The Extraordinaries, out of San Francisco. The idea is to get people to volunteer whenever it is convenient. Currently, on-demand volunteers simply tap in to participate in a nonprofit project such as tagging photos for museums or photographing neighborhood play areas to help create a nationwide map of playgrounds. As the program expands, people who want to do more can find out when and where to show up to support a local community program. The Extraordinaries envision smartphone volunteers nationwide eventually translating documents, tutoring students, collecting citizen-scientist data and even reporting potholes and other municipal problems. Down the road, volunteers might even read through congressional bills to uncover hidden “pork,” or help factcheck news reports. “If you can imagine the possibilities of what 100,000 people with a few minutes can do,” says CEO Jacob Colker, “it’s really incredible.” Source: The Christian Science Monitor
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West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Earth Victories
30 Hour Hand Reflexology Class
Props for North America’s Green Youth Leaders
with
Annalise Evenson
Six of 125 North American youth applicants who are spearheading programs successfully tackling environmental problems have been recognized by Earth Island Institute as winners of its 10th anniversary Brower Youth awards. The nonprofit organization supports those under age 23 who are creating solutions to protect the health of our shared planet. The latest winners are Alec Loorz, Adarsha Shivakumar and Hai Vo of California; Robin Bryan of Manitoba; Diana Lopez of Texas; and Sierra Crane-Murdoch of Vermont. The 2009 young leaders are responsible for, among other achievements, saving 1 million acres of boreal forest, helping to prevent permitting for 20 new coal-fired plants and five coal mining applications for mountaintop removal, and transforming food purchasing across the University of California system to nutritious and sustainable products. To date, a total of 61 award recipients have raised $1.4 million for environmental causes; trained 3,000 youths in advocacy; organized 32,000 youths in environmental projects and involved thousands more adults in 3,300 events and actions; held 500 lobby meetings with elected officials; helped to pass eight bills; implemented 20 university-wide environmental policies; and produced 20 documentary films.
Hospital Food
New Culinary Institute Supports a Nutrition Revolution
Chef Frank Turner and the first Culinary Institute for Health Care, at Michigan’s Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, are proving that hospital food can be healthy, nutritious and tasty. There, they train chefs from around the world in recipes such as veggie hummus, roasted pears, carrot raisin slaw, maple-glazed spaghetti squash and parsley vinaigrette. Appropriate spices help regulate inflammation and blood sugar. Specialty dishes address dietary needs, from gluten-free and diabetic to cardiovascular issues and
Nationally known Instructor from New York
January 14th17th at
Personal Palette 493 E. 8th St Holland, MI. 49423
Cost $300.00
To reserve your spot Contact W. Perry Dickinson
wperry317@att.net ~ 616‐340‐6865
Weight Loss Special! Detoxing Foot Bath $25 (regular $40) Offering Health Coaching in use of Therapeutic Essential Oils, Cleanses, Pain Relief, Hormone Issues, as well as Detoxing Foot Baths, Body Balancing & Biofeedback Scans.
Call Clara: 616.698.6148 www.NaturalHealth4Today.com
food allergies. Despite three decades of research showing that fresh, well-prepared food is packed with natural disease-fighting nutrients that help speed healing and prevent illness, there’s long been a disconnect when it comes to hospital food. A 2003 article in the journal Nutrition reported rates of undernourishment in some U.S. hospitals as high as 41 percent, but the tide seems to be turning. In 2008, Dr. Ronald M. Davis, immediate past president of the American Medical Association, called on hospitals to “buy meat and poultry raised without nontherapeutic antibiotics, use milk produced without recombinant bovine growth hormones and replace unhealthy snacks found in many vending machines with healthy choices.” The nonprofit coalition Health Care Without Harm has secured pledges from hospitals in 21 states to serve locally produced organic and chemical-free food. William Notte, past president of the American Society of Healthcare Food Service Administrators, reports that most hospitals now buy fresher and less processed food, because patients are demanding it. For more information, visit HenryFord.com/food revolution.
natural awakenings
January 2010
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NaturalWestMichigan.com
healthbriefs January is Thyroid Awareness Month and January 5-11 is National Folic Awareness Week
Natural Pressure Relief
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lutamic acid, the most common amino acid in vegetables, and which accounts for almost a quarter of the protein in vegetables, also helps reduce blood pressure. Eating a vegetable-based diet, suggests a new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, could help counter the current massive public health problem of high blood pressure, for which diagnosis and drug treatment is often inadequate.
Folic Acid Update
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olic acid, or folate, a B vitamin found in many vegetables and whole grains, is known to reduce neural tube defects in infants when taken during pregnancy. But now, a study at the University of Southern California has discovered that men taking a daily folic acid supplement of 1 milligram ran twice the risk of prostate cancer than those who took a placebo. Many foods are already fortified with folic acid, say experts in a BMC Public Health article, and taking the vitamin in supplements may result in “overdosing.”
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Source: BioMed Central, 2009
Surfing the Web Boosts Brain Power
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rossword puzzles, move over, because a new study from the University of California attests that “Googling” or otherwise browsing the Internet lights up the brain like a Roman candle. When study participants performed Web searches while undergoing MRI scans, they showed an improved efficiency in cognitive processing and in the way their brain encodes information. This held true even for middle-aged and older individuals who had minimal computer experience and who performed Internet searches for only a short period of time. Internet searching, it appears, engages a complicated brain activity that exercises and improves the brain when it comes to language, reading, memory, visual abilities, and reasoning and decision-making processes. The good news is that we now have a new way to keep our brains fired up and that our brains continue to learn and remain sensitive to fresh stimulation at any age. Source: National Library of Medicine (nlm.nih.gov)
Keeping Our Thyroid Healthy
he thyroid, one of the most important glands, influences many body functions, including maintaining energy levels, sleep and metabolism. To function properly, it needs the right nutrients, foremost among which is iodine, a basic building block of thyroid hormones. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, iodine deficiency is on the rise in the United States, and choosing foods wisely is crucial. Sea vegetables, such as kelp, wakame and nori, the seaweed used for making sushi, are good sources of iodine and many other key minerals that support thyroid health. Zinc, iron and copper are essential to producing thyroid hormones, and antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E are necessary for neutralizing physical oxidative stress, a condition that often occurs along with poor thyroid function. Selenium, a trace mineral needed only in tiny amounts, is readily supplied in foods like Brazil nuts, peanuts, fish, eggs, parsley, oats and mushrooms, as well as the noted sea vegetables. Source: Adapted from WomentoWomen.com.
natural awakenings
January 2010
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Vinegar Slims and Trims
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ood old-fashioned vinegar, an indispensible ingredient in zesty salad dressings and tangy pickles, is living up to its age-old reputation in folk medicine as a health promoter. According to researchers with the Central Research Institute of the Mizkan Group Corporation, in Japan, this kitchen staple is a natural fat fighter that might help us control our weight. The researchers showed that mice fed a high-fat diet and given acetic acid developed up to 10 percent less body fat than the control group; acetic acid is the main component found in all vinegars. The study results also suggested that vinegar slenderizes by turning on genes which produce specific proteins that break down fatty acids in the body, thereby preventing fat accumulation and weight gain.
Source: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2009
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Why the Heart Loves Grapes
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ew research from the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center suggests that eating grapes, a favorite fall fruit, can significantly enhance the simple blood-pressure lowering impact that comes from dining on a variety of fruits and vegetables. The benefit may come from grapes’ naturally occurring antioxidants. Our heart cells, like other cells in our body, already make a protective antioxidant called glutathione, a first line of defense against oxidative stress and heart disease; but high blood pressure lowers the levels of glutathione. Grapes, on the other hand, the scientists discovered, actually turn on the glutathione-regulating genes in the heart, giving natural antioxidant power a significant boost. Source: University of Michigan Health System, 2009.
Nature’s New Antibiotic
Manuka honey, from New Zealand, kills common Staphylococcus bacteria, reports a study published by the Society for General Microbiology. Staphylococcus is responsible for many infections, and scientists now hope to use this honey as a first-line treatment for bacterial infections resistant to antibiotics. 12
West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Lose Weight, G a i n H e a l t h T
by Dr. Karla Parkhurst, DC
he crazy pace of life in today’s society can take a toll on our health. Add to that the very stressful economic times we are living in and it is no surprise that stress related health problems are increasing. The most common symptoms of stress are headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, loss of sleep, irritability and digestive trouble. Chronic stress is also a major cause of weight gain. Many studies continue to show us that we are growing around the waistline in America. Managing your stress levels and ultimately the chemicals your body produces in response to stress can help you lose weight and gain health. Chronic stress, whether physical or emotional, causes the release of many different chemicals in your body which are primarily secreted by the adrenal glands. These glands are the stress handling glands. They produce a variety of hormones and neurotransmitters to help us handle the stress in our lives. Adrenal glands can become fatigued in response to long term stress; this then causes chemical imbalances that contribute directly to weight gain and increase cravings for foods that are high in sugar, salt and fat.
state, she will store more fat and actually diminish her amount of free thyroid hormones, which will further slow down her metabolism. Women can become estrogen dominant in many ways. Synthetic HRT and birth control pills as well as environmental exposure to estrogens found in food and other sources cause estrogen dominance. Excess cortisol production can deplete progesterone levels and cause estrogen dominance.
Cortisol and Epinephrine
Fortunately, we now have the ability to test for the levels of these chemicals in the body, through saliva and urine testing. If you are dealing with tired adrenal glands and you have been unable to successfully lose weight, there are solutions. Once the chemical imbalances have been identified, we can naturally and safely rebalance them and get you on a path to healthy weight management and increased energy. The process is simple and benefits can be felt in as little as 2-3 weeks. Healthy adrenal glands will improve the quality of your sleep, energy levels and mood as well as help you reach and maintain your ideal weight.
Cortisol levels, which directly affect metabolism, are responsible for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels between meals and helping to break down fat when we exercise. When we don’t have healthy levels of cortisol, we store fat instead of breaking it down. This fat will end up primarily in the belly. Epinephrine, another stress chemical, is also required in breaking down fat. It is very difficult to lose weight without healthy amounts of both of these chemicals, which are the first line of defense for our bodies in stressful situations. Cortisol and epinephrine tend to become imbalanced first and for many people are the reason for weight gain in times of stress. Cortisol also has a direct effect on healthy hormone levels in women. Estrogen and progesterone balance is crucial for optimal metabolic rate. If a woman is in an estrogen dominant
Dopamine and Serotonin Dopamine and Serotonin levels are almost always diminished in people who are dealing with long-term stress. These chemical imbalances are known by increased cravings; especially for carbohydrates. The body releases Serotonin in response to eating carbohydrates, which is where the term “comfort food” comes from. When Serotonin is released, we feel good. Dopamine is released in response to drinking alcohol, which also makes us feel good. It is easy to see how low levels of these neurotransmitters can lead to weight gain.
Testing Hormone Levels
To find out more about these tests contact Dr. Karla Parkhurst, DC, Parkhurst Chiropractic, 364 Garden Ave, Holland, Michigan at 616-392-9500. Visit: ParkhurstChiropractic.com. See ad page 27.
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January 2010
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wisewords
A Conversation with Shakti Gawain
Author and Counselor in Prosperity Consciousness by Ellen Mahoney
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hakti Gawain is co-founder of New World Library and an internationally renowned pioneer in the fields of personal growth, visualization and prosperity consciousness. Her many best-selling books have sold 6 million copies in 30 languages. For 20 years, she has helped thousands of individuals develop greater awareness, balance and wholeness in their lives. Today, she continues to give talks and lead workshops throughout the world.
What is “prosperity consciousness?” Most people think prosperity means having money, and that the more money you have, the more prosperity you have. Money is part of the process, but truly experiencing prosperity, I believe, has to do with discovering and satisfying our heart and soul’s deep needs and desires. Prosperity is an experience, a feeling of fulfillment or richness in your life, not something you can count.
So, how is money related to individual and community prosperity? If you look at people in the world who have millions or billions of dollars, some are doing creative, interesting and purposely helpful things with their money. But too often, people become solely hung up on the money factor and don’t end up doing much that really satisfies them. They’re not feeling as safe and secure, as successful and free, as they hoped they would. 14
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In contrast, those living an elegantly simple life may not be making a lot of money, but if they’re right where they want to be in life, they often experience a deep sense of satisfaction and peace of mind.
Can anyone arrive at a place of ongoing, conscious prosperity? Each of us moves through many stages on our road of self-discovery; it’s a lifelong process of growth and development and we arrive there at different times. This is what life is really all about—the discovery of what’s meaningful to us and how we can live the life that’s most satisfying to us on all levels. I’ve observed that an important part of most people’s satisfaction comes from activities associated with being in nature or singing and dancing, creating space to relax and taking in the beauty of life.
What’s the secret to boosting our joy and love for life? One of the most important things that I’ve found, for myself and others, is to understand that we all really do have a wise part inside of us that’s our inner guidance. You can call it many different things. The wisdom within surfaces in an intuitive way and doesn’t necessarily depend on knowing things intellectually. It’s a sense that somewhere deep inside, there is an understanding and conviction of what’s just right for us. This can serve as a guiding force on a highly practical level.
How can we stay “up” if we are unemployed, underemployed, or otherwise overwhelmed by economic hardship? Well, if we try to stay “up,” we’re often not allowing ourselves to see what’s truly going on underneath, and this can be a form of denial. What’s going on underneath can be scary to look at if we’re really feeling frightened, sad or upset, but it’s important to look at these things. It has to do with becoming more conscious and more aware of our feelings and thoughts on a day-to-day, moment-to-moment basis. It’s not easy, but it’s what every psychological and spiritual process is trying to help us to do, become more conscious of what’s going on inside of us. Once we do, we can see what is holding us back and take steps to help ourselves feel better. Instead of denying what’s happened, we can embrace it and figure out what can be done to make it better. Getting out in nature, meditation and talking to someone you feel comfortable with are ways to nurture yourself and heal. I always would urge you to do what feels right for you. For more information visit ShaktiGawain.com. Ellen Mahoney is a writer and teaches writing at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Email evm@infionline.net.
Pay attention to your body. The point is everybody is different. You have to figure out what works for you. ~ Andrew Weil natural awakenings
January 2010
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Yoga’s Mindfulness Helps Control Weight
N
ew, long-term research by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center shows that middle-aged people who practice yoga gained less weight over a 10-year period than those who did not, independent of other physical activity and changes in dietary habits. The difference is that yoga teaches mindful eating. The researchers found that people who were aware of why they ate and stopped eating when satisfied weighed less than those who ate without that awareness. Yoga cultivates mindfulness in a number of ways, starting with being able to hold a challenging pose. A practitioner’s ability to be calm and observant during physical discomfort teaches how to maintain calm in other challenging situations as well, such as declining to eat when we’re not hungry or eating extra food when it tastes especially good. Satisfaction also comes in awareness of how food looks, tastes and smells. The researchers concluded that mindfulness appears to be a state that can augment the usual approaches to weight loss, such as counting calories, limiting portion size and not eating when emotionally upset or depressed. Adding yoga practice to a standard weight-loss program may both make it more effective and promote eating behavior that is healthy and empowering.
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January 2010
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consciouseating
NATURAL DEFENSE Top 10 Whole Foods to Counter Aging by Gary Null
T
oday’s battle against the effects of aging buzzes with hype about acai, goji, noni and mangosteen. But what about the foods most people typically eat?
It turns out that many anti-aging foods can be found in everyday kitchens, and unlike some other solutions, they can keep us looking and feeling younger and improve our all-around health without breaking the budget.
1. Oranges Loaded
with antioxidants, oranges are also packed with vitamin C, fiber and folate and significant amounts of vitamins A and B1, potassium and calcium. According to studies by the Australian research group CSIRO and others, oranges help boost immunity, lower cholesterol and reduce free radical damage and oxidative stress.
2. Blueberries One of the most
exciting nutritional properties of blueberries is their abundance of antioxidants called anthocyanins. Studies published in the Journal of Neuroscience suggest that these powerful phytonutrients neutralize free radical damage, enhance the health of all body tissues, protect the cardiovascular system, guard the brain against oxidative stress, and improve brain function, including memory.
3. Onions The more pungent the onion, the greater the health benefits. Studies like those from Cornell University have found that high onion consumption lowers blood sugar levels and decreases total cholesterol, while increasing levels of HDL 18
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(good cholesterol). Consequently, onions are beneficial in preventing heart disease and stroke.
4. Garlic Known health
benefits of garlic are extensive. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry reports that garlic inhibits cardiac artery calcification and reduces the amounts of free radicals in the bloodstream, helping to reduce plaque deposits in the arteries. Research by the University of Maryland Medical Center also attests that garlic contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help protect against conditions often associated with aging, like asthma and arthritis.
5. Legumes All
types of everyday legumes are an excellent source of cholesterol-lowering fiber and energyboosting protein and iron. No one bean has an advantage over the others in providing vital nutrients. Lentils are high in fiber and, according to a study published in Nutrition Reviews, help to manage blood sugar. Black beans are rich in anthocyanidins. Kidney beans, filled with thiamin, work to improve functioning of neurotransmitters essential for memory, notes the National Institutes on Aging. Green beans are rich in vitamin K, essential to bone support. Garbanzo beans provide high amounts of minerals that aid in metabolizing carbohydrates, fats and proteins and strengthening tooth enamel, as studied by Dr. Lydia Bazzano, a professor at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. According to research by the National Institutes of Health and others, fiber-rich legumes play an important role in the prevention of gallstones, increased cardiac health, regulation of blood sugar, lowered total cholesterol levels (as well as increasing beneficial HDL cholesterol) and protection from cancers, especially colorectal cancer.
6. Shiitake Mushrooms These fungi are a good source of iron and lentinan, a polysaccharide that studies at the Iizuka Institute, in Japan, suggest activates our immune system’s tumor-fighting T cells.
7. Tomatoes Tomatoes are
loaded with healthy vitamins and trace minerals. They are also a good source of lycopene, which studies from the American Association for Cancer Research have linked to the protection of DNA from damage, prevention of heart disease and protection against cancers, including colorectal, breast, endometrial, lung and pancreatic types. Tomatoes are also rich with carotenoids, which research by the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group has associated with protection from heart disease and cancer, improved night vision and regulation of blood sugar.
8. Leafy Greens Calorie-for-calorie, greens are
10. Whole Grains While most Americans know that wholegrain breads and pastas are healthier than those made with refined white flour, we might include many grains other than wheat in our diet, in order to fight the effects of aging. Spelt, for example, provides riboflavin, which research from the Micronutrient Information Center with the Linus Pauling Institute shows can promote healthy skin and good vision. Barley can help with sleep regulation. Millet can help reduce the risk of a heart attack and lower blood pressure. With all these examples of truly good eating right in our own kitchen, there is no reason not to start improving our diet right now to pave the way for a longer, healthier life. Gary Null has written 70 books, booklets and audio CDs on health and wellness, nutrition and alternative medicine. His syndicated radio talk show, Natural Living with Gary Null, is the longest-running continuously airing health program in America, and now also airs on the Internet. Null owns a dietary supplement company and a health foods store in New York City. For more information visit: GaryNull.com
among the most nutrient-packed foods we can eat. Spinach, kale, arugula, Swiss chard, cabbage, collard greens and watercress are all solid sources of powerful nutrients. Eating a variety of leafy greens has been shown by Katherine Tucker, Ph.D., with the Jean Mayer U.S. Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, to help improve bone density (a problem area when aging), increase night vision, lower blood pressure, boost energy, increase circulatory health, protect against macular degeneration, and work to prevent a variety of cancers.
9. Soy Although soy is a legume, it deserves separate
mention, because of its extensive and well-researched health benefits and use in a wide range of forms. Soy offers a high concentration of molybdenum, a trace mineral that plays a role in three enzyme systems involved in metabolizing carbs, fats and proteins and tryptophan, an amino acid essential for growth and normal metabolism, as well as iron, fiber, phosphorus, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, copper, vitamin B2 and potassium. natural awakenings
January 2010
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A Universal Antidote to Aging by Katy Bowman
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ave you ever compared the benefits of a walk around the park with taking an antiinflammatory medication? How about correlating a game of hopscotch with high bone density? Many of us are very compliant when following a drug, herbal or vitamin prescription, but when our health care practitioner recommends exercise as a treatment, we too often accept that information with a shrug. It just doesn’t seem as critical. Yet, just as chemicals may affect specific body tissues, so do different machines, movements and modes of exercise. A healthy body is a fine-tuned mechanism, circulating essential blood, lymph and electrical impulses efficiently. While we may accept the belief that our circulation invariably degrades as we get older, it is really that we move less and allow our muscles to tighten. Muscles are the main force generators in the body, supporting the circulation of fluids and affecting the number of calories burned; constriction of muscles contributes to a decrease in both. Anyone, at any age, can turn to exercise for movement’s natural, rich supply of anti-aging properties, but be aware that not all exercise is equal. It is vital that we select the best program for us, one that gives us what we need to maintain a healthy, youthful body without causing problems like a stressed immune system and degenerating joints.
Anti-aging Prescription www.expressionsofgraceyoga.com 5270 Northland Drive NE | Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-361-8580
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n Save your joints and stretch. Human muscle tissue doesn’t change much
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over a lifetime; an anatomical science journal, Muscle & Nerve, reports that under a microscope, scientists can’t tell if they are looking at 18- or 80-year-old muscle. What they can see are the effects of inflexibility and tension around the joints that causes them to wear down and age us. The solution is to find a yoga or stretching class or home video and attend to it at least a few minutes every day. n Take a daily walk. Get those arms swinging and keep your legs extended, in order to stretch behind the knees while walking. Although one long walk is great for endurance, research from the American College of Nutrition shows that two or more shorter walks taken throughout the day may be even better for weight loss, cardiovascular health and overall metabolism. n Use it or lose it. Preventing the loss of your ability to get down to the floor and then stand back up again. This is a tough, whole-body, strength generating workout. Repeat it 10 times to feel an instant, healthful increase in body heat and breathing rate. n Choose a lighter activity. Multiple studies from Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise show that the many benefits of lighter activity include an improved immune system. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, a correlation exists between heavy exercise and upper respiratory tract infection. Walking is one example of a lighter exercise that meets your whole-body movement needs without compromising health.
n Find a good exercise teacher. A 2009 study published in Clinical Rehabilitation that compared the effectiveness of unsupervised versus supervised exercise programs, found more desirable improvements in balance, functional mobility, flexibility and strength in the group that met regularly in a private session or group class format. n Pay attention to alignment. Just as you wouldn’t continue to drive your car around with poor wheel alignment and expect optimum performance, so proper alignment of your skeleton can have an instant impact on the health of all tissues. Find an alignment specialist who can point out a few of your postural anomalies, and work together to improve them.
The Leaven Center
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January 2010 Events January 11-13 n “Just” Preaching: Igniting a Passion for the Common Good, with Barbara Lundblad. January 14-15 n Individual Silent Retreat at the Leaven Lodge (self-directed). January 29-31 n Let A Story Be Told: A Weekend for Women to Explore, Create, Tell and Write Our Story, with Jenifer Strauss. January 31-February 4 n A Four-Day Retreat for Women Writers (self-directed).
Register online at www.leaven.org.
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n Minimize exercises that can wear down joints. Artificial walking patterns caused by treadmills and other cardio machines significantly increase the tension in the joints of the hips and knees. Rather, choose an aesthetically pleasing walking path around the neighborhood or opt for an indoor track or, in inclement weather, the local mall. n Mens sana in corpore sano. A healthy mind in a healthy body is the goal. According to the Gerontological Society of America, consistent exercise at midlife may reduce the odds of dementia in older adulthood. Make exercise time a daily habit in your own and your family’s schedule. Movement isn’t a luxury. The human body requires daily, hourly movement to optimize longevity, as well as youthful strength and flexibility. It doesn’t cost much to take a walk or to stretch your arms, legs and spine throughout the day, and the dividends are magnificent. Start by incorporating one “prescribed” anti-aging activity at a time, until you have a rich and well developed habit of taking your “movement vitamins.” It is absolutely possible to feel more energetic and vital now than you did 10 years ago, if you choose well. Katy Bowman, a biomechanics scientist, has a master’s degree in kinesiology and is director of the Restorative Exercise Institute in Ventura, CA. She has created the Aligned and Well™ DVD series to educate people about how their bodies work, so they can make informed decisions. Learn more at KatySays.com and RestorativeExercise.com. natural awakenings
January 2010
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by Lisa Marshall
envisioning the future of
HEALTHCARE As a tie-dye-clad, free-spirited medical student of the ’60s with a fascination for botanical remedies, Chinese medicine and mind-body healing, young Andrew Weil quickly developed a distaste for traditional medicine as practiced in the West. “I was dismayed at the lack of connection with the natural world, the complete ignorance about botanicals and the utter absence of interest in any mind-body connection,” recalls Dr. Weil, who graduated from Harvard Medical School in 1968 as a medical doctor, with no intention to ever practice medicine. “I left there completely unprepared to help people stay well. I got very discouraged.” Now, 40 years later, this bestselling author, internationally renowned physician and founder of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine has channeled his discontent into action. Weil is among those pioneering a burgeoning new kind of medicine that many insist holds the answer to our nation’s healthcare woes.
I
ntegrative medicine, a thoughtful blend of conventional medicine, common sense prevention and modalities once dubbed alternative, such as acupuncture, meditation, breath work and dietary supplements, has caught on widely from coast to coast in the past decade, both among consumers and once-skeptical healthcare practitioners. The Association of American Medical Colleges reports that 113 of the nation’s 126 medical schools now include discussion of complementary and alternative therapies in conventional
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medical courses. Seventy-seven offer standalone electives in such approaches as traditional Chinese medicine and mindfulness-based stress reduction. As of this year, eight major medical schools require that students take part in a 250-hour integrative medicine curriculum as part of their residency. According to the American Hospital Association, 16 percent of hospitals, including medical facilities at Harvard and Duke universities, now feature integrative medicine centers. Of those that don’t, 24 percent plan to offer them in the future.
In February 2009, the Institute of Medicine, once leery diabetic. He had all the risk factors for heart disease,” of all things alternative, held a momentous two-day summit, says Guarneri. She enrolled him in a $2,800, three-month Integrative Medicine and the Health of the Public, inviting weight loss and exercise program (covered only in part by 600 policymakers and practitioners to explore where this insurance). “He lost 168 pounds and he went from taking new form of medicine is taking us. Days 16 drugs to three. Just with that single later, a congressional health commitindividual, the system saved enormous tee was calling on Weil—once a dark amounts of money.” horse among his medical colleagues—for “No amount of testimony about how to fix the nation’s Money Talks ideological argument crumbling healthcare system. In 1997, after years of quietly teach His answer: Stop focusing so much ever changed anything. ing and practicing integrative medicine in on making our current system more Arizona, Weil was propelled from relative It was when pocket- accessible via insurance reform, and obscurity to the cover of Time magazine. instead, create a new system. books started getting He has since become a go-to resource for “What we have is not a healthcare both lawmakers and other doctors seeksystem at all; it is a disease management squeezed that people ing healthcare advice. system,” advises Weil. “Making the cur Weil believes that money, or lack started paying attention. rent system cheaper and more accessible thereof, made it happen. will just spread the dysfunction more Things are going to “No amount of ideological argument widely. What we need is a new kind of ever changed anything,” he reflects. In get a lot worse, and medicine.” this case, “It was when pocketbooks when they do, the started getting squeezed that people Integrative, started paying attention. Things are going wisdom of what we to get a lot worse, and when they do, Not Alternative are doing will become the wisdom of what we are doing will Mary Guerrera, a medical doctor and become even more apparent.” director of integrative medicine at the even more apparent.” During congressional testimony University of Connecticut School of before the Senate committee on health, Medicine, stresses that integrative is not education, labor and pensions last Feb~ Dr. Andrew Weil just another word for alternative. ruary, Weil joined heart physician and “Alternative medicine indicates health guru Dr. Dean Ornish and others something to be used in place of. in rattling off a stunning list of statistics: Integrative is a term that has emerged in the past decade The United States currently spends 16 percent of its gross to reflect a bringing together of the best that conventional domestic product on health care, more than any other counand alternative medicine have to offer,” says Guerrera, who try in the world, yet its health outcomes are ranked 37th in went on to study acupuncture and holistic medicine after the world by the World Health Organization. In 2006, insurcompleting her conventional medical training in the ‘80s. ance companies covered 1.3 million coronary angioplasty She explains that because one person can’t be an expert procedures, at roughly $48,000 each, and 448,000 coroin everything, integrative medicine hinges on the idea of nary bypass operations at a cost of $99,000. Yet, things like team care. For instance, a cancer patient might see her spenutrition counseling, exercise programs and stress-reduction cialists for chemotherapy and surgery, and then be referred classes, which studies show could prevent as much as 90 to an acupuncturist for treatments to help with nausea or percent of all heart disease, are typically not covered by pain management, as well as a nutritionist to help her restore lost weight. A patient going into surgery might practice insurance. That, remarks Weil, needs to change, and he’s optimismindfulness-based meditation beforehand, which has been tic that it will. shown to hasten healing times, decrease hospital stays and “We need to transform medicine so we are not so dethus, save money. pendent on these high-tech expensive solutions for every “Integrative medicine is team-based, collaborative care,” thing,” concludes Weil, who outlines his plan in his new Guerrera explains. book, Why our Health Matters: A Vision of Medicine That Cardiologist Mimi Guarneri is medical director and Can Transform the Future. “We need doctors who know founder of the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, a when and when not to use them and who are trained to use multi-disciplinary center that offers care for people with other kinds of interventions. That’s the great promise of inteheart disease, pain, weight management needs, cancer, grative medicine: It can bring effective, lower-cost treatments diabetes, stress and women’s health issues. She notes that into the mainstream.” the center receives 3,500 patients a month, many of whom arrive seeking relief from costly drugs or surgeries. “One patient came to me who had just had a bypass. He was 330 pounds, suffered from sleep apnea and was
Lisa Marshall is a freelance writer in Colorado; connect at LisaAnnMarshall.com. natural awakenings
January 2010
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Breakthroughs in
ANTI-AGING
Research Helps Us Live Longer and Healthier by Lisa Marshall
F
ive hundred years after explorer Ponce de “What we have 20 percent suffer mild cognitive impairment. One Leon roamed the West Indies and Florida in eight seniors will suffer dementia. learned in the in search of a vigor-restoring “fountain of For decades, scientists assumed the brain was past few years youth,” we have yet to come up with a way to “hardwired” by around fifth grade, with a finite is that you can turn back time. But according to physicians and number of neural connections that inevitably atliterally exercise researchers at the cutting edge of anti-aging rophy over time, stealing our cognitive sharpness. your brain and research, we’re learning a lot about how to keep It turns out they were wrong. the signs of aging at bay. add in new circuitry. “What we have learned in the past few years “We’re seeing a ton of compelling research You can rewire it.” is that you can literally exercise your brain and lately on how to slow down the clock and live add in new circuitry. You can rewire it,” says better and longer,” says Dr. Andrew Weil, an in~ Andrew Carle Professor Andrew Carle, director of the Program tegrative physician and author of Healthy Aging: A in Assisted Living/Senior Housing Administration Lifelong Guide to Your Well-Being. “Happily, most at George Mason University, in Fairfax, Virginia. of us will not have to age the way our parents and grandpar The concept, called neuroplasticity, has spawned a $265 ents did.” million brain-game industry, according to consulting firm In the past decade, breakthrough research has radically SharpBrains. More than 700 senior housing facilities now changed our understanding of why our brain, organs and skin feature computer brain games, and “brain gyms” are popping age and what we can do, eat or apply to slow the process. up in cities nationwide. Such games are typically either downHere’s a look at some of the latest science and the technololoadable programs for a home computer or a standalone game gies to grow out of it. console. They challenge hand-eye coordination, auditory processing, memory and the ability to multitask. Typically, the program adapts as the user plays, throwing in new challenges. Workouts for Why not just read a book or do a crossword puzzle? the Aging Brain Perhaps the greatest fear of an aging Baby “These are already well-trodden neuronal pathways,” says California neuroscientist Henry Mahncke, Ph.D., vice presiBoomer is not flabby abs or wrinkling skin, but rather, the specter of a withering dent of research for brain game pioneer Posit Science. “We know from brain imaging studies that if you have something brain. By age 40, reports the Alzheimer’s that you are already good at and you do it, not much new Association, two-thirds of us experience lights up in the brain.” occasional lapses of memory. By age 65, 24
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By contrast, one 2006 study of 2,800 seniors, published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, found that those who engaged in a 10-session cognitive training program, with a four-session booster training at 11 and 35 months, had less difficulty with daily living than the control group. More, they still showed heightened cognitive abilities five years later. A 2009 study, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, showed that 487 seniors who spent an hour a day, for eight weeks, using Posit’s brain fitness program performed better on mental acuity tests than the control group. Just which game is best remains a matter of debate. Current options are on the table at Dakim.com, GamesForTheBrain.com, PositScience.com and VigorousMind.com. “We still haven’t had a study comparing this $500 brain game to this $100 brain game to having someone who never did crossword puzzles start doing crossword puzzles,” relates Carle. His advice: Find a new intellectual challenge that we enjoy enough to do regularly. “Probably the best single factor in all of this is the extent to which the games get used,” he adds.
National Academy of Science in 2007, found that a combination of sulforophane and curcumin reduced skin cancer in mice. Meanwhile, researchers are exploring another compound, resveretrol, contained in the skins of red grapes, berries and dark beans, for its ability to slow aging by activating genes called sirtuins. One 2008 study by the National Institute on Aging found that mice fed resveretrol had better balance and motor coordination, plus bone, heart and eye health. Human trials have been scarce, but several are ongoing. In the meantime, hundreds of resveratrol supplements have hit the market, and some doctors say they are confident in its safety and already taking it themselves. “Based on the science, I don’t think there is a down side,” says Pittsburgh neuroscientist and physician Joseph Maroon, author of The Longevity Factor, published this year.
Healthy Skin
Dr. Valorie Treloar, a Massachusetts dermatologist, says the antioxidant theory has spurred a host of new topical products, made with Anti-aging Supplements everything from marine pine bark and green tea to acai or When it comes to the aging of organs, much research in recent years has gogi berry, all potent antioxidants. “One of the advantages to using it topically is that you can get a higher quantity of focused around the free radical theory. the active molecule in the skin, assuming it is in a form that In essence, as our body is exposed to penetrates through the epidermis,” she explains. food, air and sun, it throws off toxic byproducts, called free Also, keep an eye out for new topical omega-3 fatty acid radicals, that eat away at cell walls, causing disease. In our and topical probiotics aimed at maintaining a proper microyouth, we have a built-in system of antioxidants that mop up bial balance on the skin. free radicals. One of the most radical topical skin care In other words, “Like a new car, we have “To age gracefully breakthroughs, from NuSkin, is a line of AgeLoc this remarkable array of catalytic converters to means to let nature products that not only triple collagen production clean up the byproducts of burning fuel,” extake its course while while dramatically decreasing an age-causing plains Joe McCord, Ph.D., a pioneer in antioxienzyme, but now also act on targeted groups of doing everything in dant research from the University of Coloradogenes that regulate how we age. In effect, it resets Denver. “But as we age, our catalytic converters our power to delay the genes to youthful activity. wear out.” and prevent disease.” Numerous companies are also exploring the Initially, test tube studies showed that “beauty from the inside-out” concept, crafting ~ Dr. Andrew Weil simple, nutritional antioxidants like vitamins C everything from antioxidant-rich skin health and E could neutralize free radicals. This led to shakes to candy chews made with cocoa antioxidants. One a 21st century boom in single-antioxidant supplements. But it recent study in the Journal of European Nutrition found that turns out that their effect is minimal, “like a firefighter with one when women ingested 329 milligrams of cocoa daily, the flow bucket, trying to put out a house fire,” McCord says. of blood and oxygen to the skin nearly doubled. Instead, he and others contend, we need to prompt the “In the past few years, we have seen some really good, body to produce more of its own antioxidants. Several nutriwell-designed trials showing that internal nutrients can make ents, including sulforaphane from broccoli, curcumin from a difference, too,” remarks Alan Logan, a doctor of naturopaturmeric, anthocyanins from berries, licorice and shallots, and thy and author of Your Skin, Younger. the herbs milk thistle and ashwaghanda, have been shown to Weil says he sees the wealth of new anti-aging innovado that. Now, supplement companies are rolling out an array tions as intriguing, but notes that one other critical factor for of new products, including Protandim by Life Vantage, a prodhealthy aging often eludes people: To accept growing older uct that came out of McCord’s work, and GliSodin, by Isocell, and all the wisdom and experience it brings, with optimism, aimed at boosting internal antioxidant production. rather than dread. One 2006 trial conducted at the University of Colorado “The denial of aging is counterproductive,” he says. “To showed that when 29 people took Protandim, biochemical age gracefully means to let nature take its course while doing markers of oxidative stress declined by 40 percent after one everything in our power to delay and prevent disease.” month. Another study, published in the Proceedings of the natural awakenings
January 2010
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healthykids
GUARDING AGAINST
How Environmental Toxins May Contribute to Autism Spectrum Disorder by Brita Belli
W
hen the results of an autism study were published in the journal Pediatrics in October 2009, the figures were shocking—one in every 91 U.S. children was reported to have autism. That was up from one in 500 a decade ago, with boys four times as likely to acquire the disorder. Behaviors of autism include: failure to respond to stimuli or make eye contact; speech delays; compulsive behavior like head-shaking; stacking objects or intense repetition of daily activities; and extreme noise sensitivity. For years, research into the causes of autism has revolved around genetics. Even as the rate of autism among the nation’s children continues to rise at an astonishing 10 to 17 percent a year, research has been slow to shift its focus to other factors—namely, environmental toxins.
The Chemical Connection New autism research is making the case that environmental toxins such as mercury, lead, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), flame retardants and pharmaceutical drugs—including antidepressants in utero or antibiotics in infancy—may be aggravating a pre-existing genetic condition. Yet James Adams, head of the Autism/Asperger’s Research Program at Arizona State University, remarks that, “There is still extremely little money out there for looking into environmental issues.” Adams’ own research has discovered a correlation between heavy metal exposure and autism severity. In one study, Dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), a medication used to treat lead poisoning, was administered to children with autism. The researchers found that children with autism “dumped three times as much mercury as typical children,” reports Adams, suggesting that their bodies could not properly excrete the toxin. In another study, the baby teeth of chil26
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dren with autism were found to contain twice the mercury as those of typical children. Adams’ findings have also uncovered one common thread in the medical history of children with autism: heavy use of oral antibiotics in infancy. He explains that antibiotics disrupt the gut’s good flora, further diminishing the child’s ability to excrete toxins. Such treatments are primarily used for recurring ear infections, but as Dr. Jerry Kartzinel reports in his book, Healing and Preventing Autism (co-written with celebrity autism treatment advocate Jenny McCarthy), those frequent ear infections are, “the most common marker for immune system dysfunction... in babies and very young children.”
A New Approach A growing number of doctors like Kartzinel and researchers like Adams are subscribing to the protocols set out by Defeat Autism Now! (DAN), a project of the nonprofit Autism Research Institute, which supports a biomedical basis for autism and its treatment. DAN practitioners, according to the group’s description, “do not regard psychotropic drugs as the best or only means of treating autistic patients.” Instead, they look for triggers that may aggravate a pre-existing genetic condition. These include everything from
vaccines to environmental toxins, like mercury, in fish, arsenic in drinking water and lead in air pollution; overuse of antibiotics and over-the-counter medicines in early infancy; and a diet heavy in wheat and dairy that contributes to gut inflammation. This holistic view of autism’s causes also extends to the potential range of treatments. These may include chelation therapy (removing heavy metals), gluten- and casein-free diets (removing wheat and dairy), administering supplements with omega-3 fatty acids and/or hyperbaric oxygen therapy (in which oxygen is administered in a pressurized chamber). “The presumption,” advises Richard Lathe, a molecular biologist and author of Autism, Brain, and Environment, “is that environmental toxicity has increased enough that, combined with childhood vaccines, [industrial] production and fish consumption, it has led to an increase in total exposure to heavy metals.” Consequently, these concerned researchers are pointing out clear steps that parents can take to minimize their own and their children’s toxic exposures, starting by taking precautions during pregnancy, minimizing exposure to mercury by avoiding fish like shark and swordfish and limiting consumption of albacore tuna. Pregnant women, counsels Lathe, should also be sure to take the proper prenatal vitamins, such as calcium, so that the fetus is not drawing minerals from the mother’s bones, where heavy metals are stored. “The body locks heavy metals away in bone and fat,” explains Lathe. “During pregnancy, that stuff is recycled [in supplying nourishment] to the child.” It’s also important to avoid exposures to toxic chemi-
cals via cleaning products, both during pregnancy and after birth. Homemade substitutes, using ingredients like distilled white vinegar and baking soda, are safe (and cheap) alternatives. Other chemical culprits? Plastic containers and bath toys can leech chemicals when heated, cleaned or used for teething. Car seats and crib mattresses made with flame retardants, as well as toys with lead paint, carry toxins. A 2005 study from the nonprofit watchdog Environmental Working Group found an average of 200 industrial chemicals and pollutants in umbilical cord blood samples from 10 babies born in U.S. hospitals around the country. Of these, the report said, “180 cause cancer in humans and animals, 217 are toxic to the brain and nervous system and 208 cause birth defects... in animal tests.” For children who may have an underlying genetic predisposition to autism, the chemical overload starts early. Increasing it through allergy-triggering diets, an overload of antibiotics and/or mercury-containing vaccines could have dangerous, long-lasting consequences. Informed parents know to take precautions early and often. Resources: Autism Research Institute at DefeatAutismNow. com; Environmental Working Group at ewg.org; Pediatrics published study at http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/ content/abstract/peds.2009-1522v1. Brita Belli is the editor of E – The Environmental Magazine.
Your Partner in Wellness Secrets to Maintaining A Healthy Lifestyle & Permanent Weight Loss
Addressing Women’s Midlife Changes Naturally
Doctor Directed, Non-Drug Solutions to help with Weight Gain, Hot Flashes, Insomnia and Mood Swings FREE Seminar Thursday, Jan. 19 • 6:30 PM
Doctor Directed Learn the 5 Pillars of Health and regain your energy & vitality! FREE Seminar Thursday, Jan. 12 • 6:30 PM Please call to reserve your place.
www.lswellnesscenter.com
Please call to reserve your place.
616.392.9500
372 Garden Avenue ~ Holland natural awakenings
January 2010
27
Masters of Massage
Massage Therapy Effective In:
Relieving Back Pain Boosting Immune System Reducing Anxiety Decreasing Carpel Tunnel Symptoms Lowering Blood Pressure Easing Post-Operative Pain Treating Migraines Alleviating Side Effects of Cancer
28
West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
Coming in February
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616.656.9232 to be a par t of this exclusive directory!
The February issue of Natural Awakenings will have everyone smiling and singing, laughing and loving. Look for our most light-hearted issue ever.
For more information about advertising and how you can participate, call
616-656-9232 natural awakenings
January 2010
29
Weight Loss Myths Exposed A
lthough hundreds of books have been written on the topic of weight loss, each claiming different things, the basic problem lies in the omission or overconsumption of specific nutrients. Below are three important things to keep in mind when deciding on your approach to weight loss. Eat good carbohydrates. Don’t be so quick to jump on the “no carb” bandwagon and sacrifice good health for a trimmer waist. The single most important piece of the nutrition puzzle, 55 percent of a healthy diet should consist of the carbohydrates found in fruits, vegetables and whole gains. Carbohydrates, one of the best sources of nutrients, are responsible for giving our body the energy it needs to breath, think, move, digest food, keep our heart beating, etc. Eat fat. Essential fatty acids are your friends. Without polyunsaturated fats known as Omega 3—there would be no healthy nervous system; some vitamins would not be absorbed or stored; and losing weight without certain types of fat actually slows down the process. Polyunsaturated fats are important to weight loss. You can obtain enough if you eat 12 ounces of fatty fish (especially salmon and sardines) every week. The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends a total of 650 milligrams of DHA/ EPA (types of omega-3) combined. Fish oil supplements are the best source. If you are a vegetarian, flax seed and flax oil can be used, but are not as readily usable by the body. Do Strength training. Cardiovascular exercise is good at keeping the heart and lungs strong and it does burn calories, but only while you are doing it. If you only do cardio and don’t do strength training, you will get the undesirable result of burning up your muscle, not just your fat. Your muscle is like a furnace in your body. In order to keep a furnace burning, you need to give it fuel. The fuel of muscle is food. Therefore, the more muscle you have, the hotter the furnace, the more fuel it will consume (in the form of calories). To burn more calories all day long, not just when you exercise, include strength training. For every pound of muscle you gain, you will burn 50 more calories per day (just sitting around). If you don’t know where to begin, hire a personal trainer who can design a safe and effective workout. Keep things in moderation. Keep things in moderation. Food can be your friend rather than your foe. Get educated on the subject of good nutrition and your dreams of obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight can become a reality. Written by Heather David, HHP, CPT of Shoreline Natural Wellness. Heather has been successfully helping individuals to loose weight for more than 10 years. For more information, call Heather at (231) 750-2525. See ad page 6.
TIP... With indoor air quality being at such a premium these winter months, from time to time, it is important to get some fresh air into your home. Set some spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg or a couple drops of your favorite essential oil in a dish and set inside the windowsill. This will give you a natural air freshener and provide that very important air exchange. — Natural Home Cleaning Service, LLC Sherri Geysbeek
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NaturalWestMichigan.com
naturalpet Keep Close Tabs Outdoor, free-roaming pets generally have shorter lives than indoor animals. Keep dogs on leashes or in fenced yards.
Monitor the Environment Keep trash and poisons out of a pet’s reach. Ingesting even a small amount of toxic substances, such as antifreeze, rat poison or slug bait, can cause serious illness or death.
Provide Good Nutrition
How to Keep a Dog Forever Young by Debra A. Primovic
Feed your dog a high-quality, low-fat, high-fiber diet and minimize treats. Discuss the merits of senior-formula food with your vet.
Encourage Daily Exercise Exercise strengthens joints and muscles, provides mental stimulation and helps maintain a healthy body weight.
Spay or Neuter Your Dog
T
o pet lovers, the disparity between human and canine life spans seems unfair. Efforts to help dogs stay healthy not only keeps them around longer, but pays dividends in also keeping them in as youthful shape as possible.
Know When Your Pet is “Old” According to Dr. Johnny Hoskins, in Geriatrics and Gerontology of the Dog and Cat, the canine age that qualifies as senior depends largely on the breed and size. This veterinarian notes that dogs weighing less than 20 pounds are seniors at nine to 13 years, while giant dogs of 90 pounds or more are oldsters between six and nine years. Smaller breeds usually live longer.
Schedule Regular Wellness Exams Comprehensive geriatric exams help identify early diseases or other problems. Include an evaluation of the teeth, heart and lungs,
abdominal palpation and inspection of the ears and eyes. Monitoring weight, checking for parasites, blood work and urine tests are often recommended. Any symptoms of concern may require additional tests.
Watch for Illness Because dogs are good at hiding illness until it is too late, regular home exams are vital. Be alert to such things as changes in water consumption, urination patterns and activity levels; poor appetite; weight gain or loss; coughing or difficulty breathing; vomiting or diarrhea; and skin lumps or masses. If you suspect a problem, don’t delay—get your vet’s evaluation.
Control Your Dog’s Weight Obesity stresses the heart, which can lead to problems in the brain, lungs, liver and kidneys. Over time, lifethreatening conditions can develop.
Spaying and neutering reduce the risk of potential health problems related to the reproductive organs and diminish the desire to wander, which lessens the chance of being hit by cars.
Offer Mental Stimulation Provide your dog with toys, games and quality time. Most pets are never too old to play, and it’s never too late to teach old dogs new tricks. Following these 10 tips will go far in keeping a well-favored canine companion forever young. Debra A. Primovic, a doctor of veterinary medicine, also holds a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing. She works as a staff veterinarian at the St. Louis Animal Emergency Clinic, in Missouri, and serves as managing editor of PetPlace.com, an online resource for pet health and wellness.
natural awakenings
January 2010
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11th Annual
YOGA DAY USA
E
ach year, thousands of Americans young and old, flexible or not, athletes and couch potatoes, come together at hundreds of designated yoga events to stretch body, mind and spirit on Yoga Day USA. In 2010, it will happen again, on January 23. Yoga Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives through yoga, orchestrates the occasion in yoga studios, community centers and parks as well as on beaches across the country. In the spirit of karma yoga, or service to others, hundreds of alliance-registered yoga teachers and schools will host free or low-cost workshops to raise awareness, change lives and address the needs of their local communities. Yoga Alliance President and CEO R. Mark Davis notes that many of the day’s workshops will raise funds or in-kind donations for local charities. See YogaDayUSA.org for a complete listing of events; local events in our community are also listed below.
YOGA FOR EVERY-BODY 10:00am The Armenta Studio www.LauraArmenta.com 616-550-8244 Laura Armenta DONATION YOGA 10:00am The Studio at WFC www.TheStudioWFC.com 616-531-3026 Marge Wilcox GENTLE YOGA 11:00am-12:15pm Cascade Yoga Studio www.CascadeYogaStudio.com 616-464-1610 GENTLE FLOW YOGA 12:00-1:00pm Lakeshore Yoga Center www.LakeshoreYoga.com 616-844-1900 Pam Fenton (Schap)
DETOX YOGA 7:00am Satya Yoga www.SatyaYogaCenter.net 269-857-7289 Michele Adrianse
POWER TO PEACEFUL YOGA 8:30am Satya Yoga www.SatyaYogaCenter.net 269-857-7289 Michele Adrianse
‘TASTE OF’ TAE KWON DO 12:00pm Satya Yoga www.SatyaYogaCenter.net 269-857-7289 Michele Adrianse
BACK TO BASICS 8:00-9:15am Cascade Yoga Studio www.CascadeYogaStudio.com 616-464-1610
VINYASA 9:30-10:45am Cascade Yoga Studio www.CascadeYogaStudio.com 616-464-1610
CANDLELIGHT YOGA 6:00pm Satya Yoga www.SatyaYogaCenter.net 269-857-7289 Michele Adrianse
Take Your Workout OUTDOORS This Winter!
I
by Cari Draft, ACE Certified Personal Trainer
t doesn’t take long for the winter doldrums to roll along in January, and many people in West Michigan tend to hibernate, while gaining weight in the process. Make 2010 your winter to skip the sweaty, crowded gyms of January “resolutioners” and find your way back outside to stay fit! Snowboarding, downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating are the obvious options, but what if you’re not athletically inclined and want to stay curled up by the fireplace? You have choices. Grab your neighbor, your coffee buddy or your dog & kids, wear some light layers and head outside to play! Tote a sled along, and transform any small slope along your path into your own sledding hill. If you’re walking with a friend, push yourselves to pick up the pace without losing your ability to carry on a conversation. Set up before-work outdoor “playdates” with your neighbors, and stick to the plan! There is strength in numbers, and if your friends are counting on you to show up, you won’t hit snooze to stay cozy in bed. Working out in a group provides 32
YOGA-LATES (Yoga+Pilates) 10:00am Satya Yoga www.SatyaYogaCenter.net 269-857-7289 Michele Adrianse
West Michigan Edition
NaturalWestMichigan.com
support, accountability, and structure. You can’t let your group down, and consistency is beneficial for an exercise routine to be successful. Groups give a sense of play to exercise and may even remind you of sports you played as a kid. When it’s FUN to work out, it’ll be something you look forward to and continue. Don’t worry about getting all the high-end tech gear to wear right away, just start out with a few light layers. Invest in some quality water-resistant footwear with some traction, remember to keep your head and hands warm, and you’ll be ready to roll. Soon you will realize how much you enjoy being outside in Michigan in the wintertime, and it will make more sense to start collecting more expensive technical layers to wear. The investment will keep you outdoors, enjoying this winter paradise you live in! Cari Draft is the owner and founder of EcoTrek Fitness, a company offering unique outdoor group workouts all over West Michigan. Visit ecotrekfitness.com. See ad page 12.
calendarofevents Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. All Calendar events must be submitted online by the 15th of the month prior to publication.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 1
New Years Day Yoga - 9:00am. Grateful for the old~Excited for the new. Full practice with private journaling. $15.Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. The Coptic Center Welcomes the New Year 6:00pm. Join us New Years Day evening as Coptic Center director John Davis shares inspiration and blessings for personal & planetary ascension. Love Offering. TheCopticCenter.org. 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.
MONDAY, JANUARY 4
Free Yoga Classes - Jan 4- Jan 9. New to yoga? Try out a free class! No need to sign up but space is limited so come early. Visit www.expressionsofgraceyoga. com for details. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 5
Home Care & Trigger Point - 6:15-7:15pm. Bring a partner and learn in this hands on workshop how to decrease pain and stress in your life. Free. Call to register. Courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic, 364 Garden St, Holland. 616-392-9500.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6
Global Warming: Changing Course - 7:00-8:00pm. Every Wednesday through 2/3. Sharon Rydzewski, a member of the Northwest Earth Institute, will facilitate a five-week course for people interested in global warming and personal change. Free. Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St NE, Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400. Guided Meditation and Healing Circle - 7:00-8:00 pm. Escape from stress & discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation & energy healing from Healing in America-trained healers. $5. Holistic Care Approach, 3368 E. Beltline Ct. NE, Grand Rapids. 269-929-6796.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 8
Free Health Consultations - 10:00am-2:00pm. Certified Holistic Health Practitioner and Master Herbalist. Haelen Holistic Treatments, 147 Diamond Ave SE, Grand Rapids. 616-446-6906. Partner Yoga - 6:30-8:30pm. A unique practice that can strengthen relationships by fortifying trust, communication and intimacy. Limited to 12. Call to RSVP. $35/couple. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610. Restorative Workshop - 7:30-9:00pm. Come into balance through a restorative yoga practice. Allow yourself to release muscular tension as well as emotional & mental stress. Creating a calm & healing environment, Marro is known for her clear & caring instructions. $20. Limited to 8 Pre-register at Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy SE Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 9
Introduction to Tai Chi - 1:00-2:00pm. With Instructor Gretchen Barr. $10. www.thestudiowfc.com.
The Studio at WFC, 933 52nd St. Kentwood. 616-531-3026. Get Off the Sugar Roller Coaster - 1:302:30pm. With Wellness Coach Barb Badolati. East healthier, lose weight and balance your energy. Free. Muskegon Yoga Center, 825 Western Ave, Muskegon. 231-668-4181. EcoBuns-Cloth Diapering with Kellie Rosenberg - 3:00-4:00pm. 8,000 diapers is the average number changed from birth to potty. Learn how it can save you money, save the earth, and save baby’s sensitive skin. No more pins and rubber pants! Register at kellierosenberg@yahoo.com or call The Body Center in Holland. 616-403-8864.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 10
Eckankar Worship Service - 10:00-11:00am. All are welcome to join “Am I worthy of God’s Love,” at this monthly celebration. Free. Meeting Room, 76th & 131-Motel 6, 7625 Caterpillar Ct, Grand Rapids. 616-752-8460. Basic Belly Dancing - 12:30-1:30pm. This class is perfect for the recreational dancer - the “starting from scratch” first time adventurer - and absolutely NO experience is required. $75/Full 5-week session. Info@LauraArmenta.com to register or call Armenta Studio, 955 Wealthy St SE. Grand Rapids. 616-235-9642.
MONDAY, JANUARY 11
Just Preaching: Igniting a Passion for the Common Good - 1:00pm-4:00pm on 1/13. Just preaching calls us to new ways of living. Union Theological Seminary professor, author & preacher Barbara Lundblad will offer strategies to create sermons that make hope as tangible as despair. $275. Partial scholarships available. The Leaven Center, Lyons. www.leaven.org or 989-855-2606. Abraham-Hicks Meeting - 6:45-8:45pm. Open to the public. This is a meeting facilitated for people to share the information and ideas of the Abraham teachings. The Law of Attraction. Held at The Body Center’s Studio, TheBodyCenter.us, 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 12
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & CFS-related Fibromyalgia Support Group Meeting - 1:002:30pm- Help, Hope & Positive Support Through Education for Patients & Healthcare Professionals. Be Fragrance Free. Cost-Free. The Peter M. Wege Health & Learning Center, 300 Lafayette Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-531-7088. Anniversary Open House - 6:00-8:00pm. One Year Anniversary Party Open House for all existing & new practice members. Chair Massages, Raffle Prizes, Food and Give-A-Ways. Open to the public. Chirofit Wellness Center, 2249 Wealthy St SE Suite 240, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2348. Health Workshop - 6:15pm. Learn the 5 things you can do RIGHT NOW to be the healthiest you’ve ever been. Space is limited; call to reserve your spot today. Morea Chiropractic, 388 N 3rd Ave Ste L, Fruitport. 231-865-7474.
5 Secrets to Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle & Permanent Weight Loss - 6:30-7:30pm. Learn the 5 pillars to maintaining a healthy lifestyle & permanent weight loss to regain your energy & vitality. Free. Call to register. Courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic. Howard Miller Community Center, 14 S Church St, Zeeland. 616-392-9500. Conversation with God Study Group - 6:30pm. A discussion about the messages of CwG as written by Neale Donald Walsch. $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298. GR Men’s Spiritual Roundtable - 6:30-8:30pm. And 1/26. On ongoing bi-monthly gathering held on the second & forth Tuesdays of the month. Do you have questions about your spiritual path, alternatives to the prevailing fundamental religious dogma? Facilitated by Ray Farrell. Free. Nature’s Spiritual Connection, 615 Lyon St, Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204. Denise Iwaniw - 7:00-8:30pm. Please register at TheBodyCenter.us, 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13
Guided Meditation, Prayer and Healing Circle - 7:00-8:00 pm. Relax to guided meditation, and receive energy healing from local healers while church chaplains pray over your prayer requests. Donation. Unity Church on the Lakeshore, 41 So. Washington, Douglas. 269-857-8226.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 14
30-Hour Hand Reflexology Class - through 1/17. Join Annalise Evenson, a nationally known and respected Reflexology instructor. Class is open to everyone. Space is limited-RSVP required. $300. Call W. Perry Dickinson. Personal Palette, 493 E. 8th St. Holland. 616-340-6865. Individual Silent Retreat - 9:00am-5:00pm on 1/15. Self-directed. The time is yours to make of it what you choose. Meditatively walk the 20 acres of meadows and woods, sit and write beside the Grand River, read, or simply catch up on much-needed rest. $25-$75. The Leaven Center, Lyons. www.leaven.org or 989-855-2606. Have Lunch on Us - 11:45am. Learn the 5 things you can do RIGHT NOW to be the healthiest you’ve ever been. Held at Jazzy Café. Call to reserve your spot today! Morea Chiropractic, 388 N 3rd Ave Ste L, Fruitport. 231-865-7474. Guided Meditation Group with Jeannine Proulx - 7:00-8:30pm. Join Jeannine, as we use the tool of story to access the inner regions of the mind, body and soul to find the answers to the questions in life. $15. Ages: 8 & up. Register at TheBodyCenter.us, 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15
Compass Readings with Heidi - 10:00am-3:00pm. Compass Readings are done by Heidi with a computer program that reads your body’s frequency and need for vitamins and supplements to support your health. Receive a computer print out. ½ hour appointments are $20. Call for an appointment! TheBodyCenter.us, 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596. Fire of Transformation Practice - 6:30-8:30pm. This challenging practice is for experienced Anusara yoga students. Taught by Mimi Ray. $18. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 16
Get Fit AM Routine - 9:00-11:00am. A mix of activities and socializing. Light breakfast. Free. Chirofit Wellness Center, 2249 Wealthy St SE Suite 240, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2348. Free Snowshoe Event - 11:00am. SEGR & SWGR EcoTrek series combo. Bring your own snowshoes. Bring a dish to pass for potluck following event. RSVP to cari@ecotrekfitness.com or call 616291-2851. Palmer Park, 1275 52nd St, Wyoming. Feng Shui Workshop - 1:00-4:00pm. Bring your home layout and create organization, harmony and balance for your home and life. With Jenna Boyd. $55. Register at MuskegonYoga.com or call Muskegon Yoga Center, 825 Western Ave, Muskegon. 231-668-4181. Musical Movement with Jeannine Proulx - 2:303:30pm.Taught by Child Care Specialist, Singer/ Songwriter Jeannine Proulx, who combines her love of music with her expertise in child development ages 0 to 6 years old. Register at TheBodyCenter.us - 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596. Community Meditation Gathering - 6:008:00pm. An ongoing open meditation class held on the third Saturday of every month. Facilitated by Danielle Alandt. Free with offering appreciated. Nature’s Spiritual Connection, 615 Lyon St, Grand Rapids. 616-929-4204. Riding the Wheel with Jessica Hanselman 6:30pm. Using the energy of the four seasons to enhance personal healing & spiritual development. Jessica will share how using the energy of Winter can be used to accelerate your efforts toward your personal growth. $20. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 17
Free Snowshoe Event - 2:00-3:30pm. North Kent County EcoTrek series with Terri. Bring your own snowshoes. RSVP to cari@ecotrekfitness.com or call 616-291-2851. Pickerel Lake, 6001 Ramsdell, Canonsburg.
Free Community Workshop-Fibromyalgia 6:00pm. and 1/26. Sponsored by the Foundation of Wellness Professionals. Gain an understanding of the causes of the syndrome and learn non-drug approaches. Free event and seating is limited, so please call to RSVP. Peak Performance Chiropractic, 4150 East Beltline Ste 4, Grand Rapids. 616-447-9888.
Liberating Freedom of Yoga Workshop with Moses Brown - 7:00-9:00pm. Sat 10am-1pm & 3-5pm, Sun 9:30am-12:30pm & 2:30-4:30pm. Moses is a certified Anusara Yoga Teacher who brings a mindful & playful approach to his teaching. $180 for full weekend, or $35-$50 for individual sessions. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580.
Addressing Women’s Mid-Life Changes Naturally - 6:30-7:30pm. Learn effective solutions to safely and naturally overcome mid-life PMS or Menopausal symptoms utilizing bio-identical hormones. Free. Call to register. Courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic. Howard Miller Community Center, 14 S Church St, Zeeland. 616-392-9500.
Partner Yoga - 7:00-8:30pm. with Barb Badolati and Warren Mosley. $35/couple. Register at MuskegonYoga.com or call Muskegon Yoga Center, 825 Western Ave, Muskegon. 231-668-4181.
Finding Balance, Releasing Stress - 6:30-8:30pm. Modeled after the Stress Reduction Program at UMass Medical Center. Reduce stress & find balance with meditation, yoga & breath. Register online or by phone. Free. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. Infant Massage - 6:30-7:30pm. And 1/26. Infant massage plays a significant role in baby’s growth and development. It helps promote better sleeping, relieves discomfort from colic, teething & distress. Taught by a Certified Infant Massage Instructor. $45 includes manual & oil. Baby Beloved Inc. 555 Mid Towne, Ste 100, Grand Rapids. 616-977-5683 YIN Circles - 6:30pm. A course where you learn how to use your feminine energy in positive and active ways. $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20
Feng Shui Basics for Design Professionals - 6:007:30pm. What is Feng Shui & how can it enhance my work? We’ll teach basic Feng Shui & green tips for creating a balanced environment that promotes healthy, harmonious living and working environments. Eden Environments, 5747 28th St SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-5000.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 21
MONDAY, JANUARY 18
Meditation Monday - 6:30pm. Enjoy a relaxing evening of meditation to reconnect your body, mind and spirit. All levels welcome $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-447-8298.
Insight Meditation Series - Join Stephanie Squibb for a year of Insight Meditation. Meets the third Thursday of every month January 21, 2010. Cost for the entire series is $144 for the year. Students are welcome on a drop-in basis at $15/class. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610.
Complimentary Lecture - 7:00-8:30pm. The Gleason Center offers information on relief for allergies, sleep and weight issues, hormone imbalances. Presented by Dr. Dan Gleason. Call with questions & to reserve your seat. The Gleason Center, 19084 Fruitport Rd., Spring Lake. 616846-5410.
Guided Meditation and Healing Circle - 7:008:00 pm. Escape from stress & discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation & energy healing from Healing in Americatrained healers. $5. Center for Unlimited Possibilities, 14998 Cleveland St., Spring Lake. Space is limited; reservations a must. 269-929-6796.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19
FRIDAY, JANUARY 22
W.A.P. Cooking Prep Class - This Presentation will Teach you how to Create a Meal Plan and Prep a Week of Menus Taught by Chef Jackie White. www.PureFood2U.com. Contact Gil at Nourishing Ways of West Michigan. Grand Rapids. 616-309-9147 Holland Free Health Clinic - 9:00am-1:00pm. Health and Wellness Screening. Free. Courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic. 99 West 26th, Holland. 616-392-9500.
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West Michigan Edition
Free Health Consultations - 10:00am-2:00pm. Certified Holistic Health Practitioner and Master Herbalist. Haelen Holistic Treatments, 147 Diamond Ave SE, Grand Rapids. 616-446-6906. Winter Bridal Show - 5:00-9:00pm, & 1/23 from 10:00am-4:00pm. Bridal Exhibits for engaged couples to plan their wedding day. Save time with one stop shopping. Visit KohlerExpo.com. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-532-8833.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
SUNDAY, JANUARY 24
Free Snowshoe Event - 1:30-3:30pm. Lakeshore EcoTrek series with Cari. Bring your own snowshoes. RSVP to cari@ecotrekfitness.com or call 616-2912851. Hoffmaster State Park, 6585 Lake Harbor Rd, Norton Shores.
MONDAY, JANUARY 25
Healer’s Rejuvenation Circle - 6:30pm. A place where you can connect with others & find your center again. $15. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616447-8298. MomsBloom Volunteer Training - 6:30pm. Offering support to families who have a baby. If you enjoy helping moms and babies, please come to our free training. Contact Angie for more information. Women’s Health Center, 555 Midtowne, Grand Rapids. 616-447-9788.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26
YIN Circles - 6:30pm. A course where you learn how to use your feminine energy in positive and active ways. $10. Indigo’s And Mystic’s Book Exchange & More, 4485 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids. 616447-8298. Spiritual Wellness - 7:00-8:30pm. Every 4th Tuesday. Minster Denise Iwaniw’s latest year long workshop. Denise brings an evening of spiritual well being & food for the soul covering a various topics each month. $15. TheCopticCenter.org. 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339. Decompression Open House - 6:00-7:00pm. Learn about Spinal Decompression and how this treatment can alleviate pain in your life. Call to register. Free seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic, 364 Garden St, Holland. 888-567-3391. Stretching - 7:00-8:00pm. Learn how simple stretching routines can relieve stress; improve heart health, balance, flexibility and strength. Call to register. Free seminar courtesy of Parkhurst Chiropractic. Ultimate Fitness, 91 Douglas Ave Ste 140, Holland. 616-392-9500.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28
Free Community Workshop-Reduce Toxins & Lose Weight - 6:00pm. Sponsored by the Foundation of Wellness Professionals. Workshop participants will learn how to get rid of impurities absorbed in the body. FREE event and seating is limited, so please call to reserve your seat. Peak Performance Chiropractic, 4150 East Beltline Ste 4, Grand Rapids. 616-447-9888.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 29
Natural Awakenings Puerto Rico - January 29-31.
Take a healthy vacation and the annual health expo. Visit www.na-pr.com.
ongoingevents
Night at The Circus - 6:30-9:30pm. Kids will flip and entertain at this circus training. Members $20, Nonmembers $25. Gymco, 2306 Camelot Ridge Court SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586.
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.
Stillpoint Breathing & Mindshifters Experiential Workshop - 6:30-8:30pm. Experience the breath’s ability to reduce stress and remove limiting patterns. Access suppressed thoughts and feelings so they can be examined and healed. Come prepared to look deeply within. $150. Pre-register at TheBodyCenter.us - 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-784-4507. Let A Story Be Told: A Weekend for Women to Explore, Create, Tell and Write Our Story - 7:00pm-1:00pm on 1/31. Join speaker, writing consultant and story artist Jenifer Strauss for a weekend of storytelling and deep listening using Turning Points™ to explore life moments that have caused great learning, growth, and change. $190. Partial scholarships available. The Leaven Center, Lyons. www.leaven.org or 989-855-2606. 108 Hour Anusara Yogatm Immersion Program - Jan 29-31, Feb. 26-28 , Fri 5:30-8:30pm, Sat & Sun 9am-12pm & 1:30-4:30pm. Designed to provide a good foundation of practical understanding of Anusara Yogatm for all students & is a requirement for those students who wish to enter into Anusara Yogatm Teacher Training. $495/ both weekends. FromTheHeartYoga.com 616-336-9642.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30
Stillpoint Breathing & Mindshifters Experiential Workshop - 11:00am-5:00pm. Experience the breath’s ability to reduce stress and remove limiting patterns. Access suppressed thoughts and feelings so they can be examined and healed. Come prepared to look deeply within. $150. Pre-register at TheBodyCenter.us - 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-784-4507. Holy Yoga Introductory Workshop - 1:003:30pm. With Andre Daley, CYT, RYT. $20. www.thestudiowfc.com. The Studio at WFC, 933 52nd St. Kentwood. 616-531-3026. Yoga on The Ball - 1:30-3:00pm. Freedom & Mobility in the Hips & Lower Back. 3:30 - 5 pm, Ease & Extension in the Shoulders, Neck & Arms. Release tension & pain, increase range of motion in this relaxing practice. $30/each, $50/ both. Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580. Cartwheel Clinic - 2:00-4:00pm. Learn a cartwheel in just two short hours. Members $20, Nonmembers $25. Gymco, 2306 Camelot Ridge Court SE, Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 31
A Four-Day Retreat for Women Writers - 7:00pm-1:00pm on 2/4. Self-directed. This retreat is for women who desire a place of quiet and beauty in which to write with abandon. You will be in charge of how you spend your days. In the evening there will be occasion to share. $215. The Leaven Center, Lyons. www.leaven. org or 989-855-2606.
Sunday Awakening – 9:00-9:45am. Chanting, to meditation, and beyond. Free. Christ Community Church, 225 E. Exchange, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985. Christ Community Church – 10:00am. Gathering service with traditional and contemporary music and progressive message encouraging all to expand their consciousness. Childcare available. 225 E. Exchange, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985. Unity Church of Peace Sunday Service – 10:00am. Presenting uplifting and vibrant spiritual messages in warm and accepting atmosphere. Your ministry grades 1-12 & nursery. Office@Unity-ChurchofPeace.org. Unity Church of Peace, 6025 Ada Dr, Ada. 616-682-7812. Bhakti Yoga: Salutations with Prayer, Meditation, Intention – 10:00-11:15 am. All Levels. An inspiring Sunday morning practice with mindfulness movement, Vinyasa style. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. Mindfulness Meditation & Dharma Discussion – 4:30-5:00pm. Based on the writings of a Buddhist teacher. Meditation-5:00-6:00pm. Two 20min periods of sitting & 10min of walking. No fee-Donations accepted. The Yoga Studio, 955 Cherry SE, Grand Rapids. 616-774-4136. Vinyasa Yoga – 5:30-6:45pm. Vinyasa flow is a physically challenging practice & prior experience is required. Heat is 82-85deg. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610. The Coptic Center Sunday Series – 6:00pm. An ongoing series of inspirational speakers, centering and the piano music of Karen Lauck as we explore Universal Truths. TheCopticCenter.org. Love Offering. The Coptic Center, 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.
Monday Pilates-Yoga Mix at Noon – 12:00-12:55pm. Pilates and yoga are systems of integrated exercise. Enjoy the benefits of these complementary disciplines to feel strong, centered, energized, and focused. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610. Yamuna Body Rolling with Marcella Clark – 5:30-6:30pm. Release trapped joints & correct muscle imbalances limiting range of motion. Improves your posture & more. 8 week series $80. Register at TheBodyCenter.us - 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596. Community Yoga Half Price Mondays – 6:00pm. This popular class is an excellent introduction to yoga, as well as a continuing practice for the advanced. All poses are modified to fit all
bodies and styles. $5. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.
Tuesday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 7:45-9:00am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 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. Hula Hoop with Kortney Quizena – 5:156:05pm. Learn to play & slim your waist! Teens & adults welcome. Connect with your inner child. Walk-in’s welcome. Register at TheBodyCenter.us, 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596. Yoga-Advanced – 5:45pm. Must have completed Level 1&2 to attend. Moving deeper into your practice and in to the awareness of the core. Back bends, inversions and arm balancing. Using awareness of core, organic & muscular energy to deepen the poses & strengthen core. Invocation. SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849. Power to Peaceful Yoga – 6:00-7:15pm. All Levels. A practice meant to stimulate, relax and renew. Vinyasa style yoga followed by restorative poses, ending with meditation. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289.
Wednesday Half-Off BioMeridian Assessments – Stateof-the-art profiling and tracking of all 58 meridians in the body with take-home color coded charts to assess health progress. Call for an appointment. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. Winter Detox Program – 7:00-8:30pm. Led by Dr. Dan Gleason. $50 plus cost of supplements. Discounts available. Call to reserve. Held at Christ Community Church, 225 E.Exchange St., Spring Lake. 616-846-5410. Yoga-Beginning – 9:00am. This is where you start. Learn the basic poses, strengthen, breath awareness and relax. Focus on awareness and strengthening the core. Modifications made for those with limitations. For more information visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849.
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YogaCore – 9:00am. A perfect balance of core strengthening & yoga in a fun and fresh way! Yoga & Core like you’ve never experienced before. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. Lighten Up & Shine – 1:00pm-3:00pm. Based on Brain Gym & vision circle movements. With Rebecca Kirk, M. Ed, Licensed Brain Gym instructor. $14/class. Contact rkirk@tds. net or The Yoga Studio, 955 Cherry SE, Grand Rapids. 616-774-4136. Yoga After School – 4:30-5:30pm. Back to Basics classes at a New time. Particularly convenient for teachers & first shift staff. Rejuvenate yourself and journey the river within. $12. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Road Suite G, Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610. Discover the Benefits of Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Increase flexibility, decrease stress, connect with the mind, body, and spirit for over all wellbeing! Good for all ages & abilities. $50 for an 8 session punch card. Metro Health Village, 2093 Health Dr, Wyoming. 616-252-7117. Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement Class – 6:00-7:00pm. Reconnect with your ability to move, regardless of age. New classes begin 1st week of January. Visit BodyWorkbyJudith.com. Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison Street, Ludington. 231-510-5800. General Anxiety Support Group – 7:008:30pm. General Anxiety Support Group is open to individuals who have any kind of anxiety problem as well as their friends & family members. Anxiety Resource Center, 312 Grandville Ave, Grand Rapids. 616-356-1614. Yoga with Ginjah Knuth – 7:15-8:30pm. Stretches for flexibility. Standing poses for balance, strength and energy. Seated poses for a healthy back. 8 week series = $80. Register at TheBodyCenter.us, 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596. Shambala Meditation Group – 7:30pm. Sitting and Walking meditation in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Free. Beginners welcome. Instruction provided. Sacred Space, 58 E.Beltline, Grand Rapids. 616-452-2115.
Thursday Insight Meditation – Every 3rd Thursday beginning 1/21. Stephanie’s meditation series covers a variety of topics with a focus on home practice. Entire series-$144/year. Students are
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West Michigan Edition
also welcome on a drop-in basis at $15 a class. Cascade Yoga Studio, 5060 Cascade Rd. SE in Grand Rapids. 616-464-1610. Green Drinks GR Network – 5:00-7:00pm. 3rd Thursday. Join other environmental enthusiasts for casual networking and drinks. For more Info visit GreenDrinksGR.org contact WMEAC at 616-451-3051. Grand Rapids. Open Studio Nights – 5:00-7:00pm. Artists & other textile/fashion design enthusiasts interested in working with us to create re-fabricated items from our luxurious fabrics are invited to participate in an open gallery of discussion & design. Clothing Matters, 141 Diamond SE, Grand Rapids. 616-742-2818. Advanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.
Friday Yoga-Intermediate – 9:00am. Learn the basics. Holding poses longer and moving deeper into your practice and awareness of the core. Gentle back bends, inversions and arm balancing introduced. For more information visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849. Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement Class – 9:30-10:30am. In ATM lessons, students engage in precisely structured movement explorations that involve thinking, sensing, moving and imagining. $40/5 week series. New classes begin 1st week of January. Contact Body Work by Judith, 121 E Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-510-5800. Belly Dancing with Alessandra – 5:306:30pm. Get out of your busy routines & learn to Belly Dance. Helps you tone your body. Dress comfortably and get ready to shimmy! $80/8 week series. Register at TheBodyCenter. us, 650 Riley St., Holland. 616-834-2596.
Sweetwater Local Foods Market – Winter Hours: Saturdays from 9am-1pm 12/12, 12/19/, 12/26. We will be open every other Saturday from January till May beginning 1/9/10. Indoors at Hackley Health at the Lakes, Harvey St. 1/2 Mile South of Lakes Mall. Exit US 31 at Pontaluna Rd. Muskegon. Detox Yoga – 7:00am - 8:15am. A practice specifically sequenced aiding in cleansing and strengthening major detoxification systems through sweat, breathe, movement, and thought awareness. Satya Yoga Center, 3385 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. Yoga-Beginning – 9:00am. This is where you start. Learn the basic poses, strengthen, breath awareness and relax. Focus on awareness and strengthening the core. Modifications made for those with limitations. For more information visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849. Yoga-Pilates – 9:00-10:00am. Beginning 1/9. Strengthen and tone your muscles, improve posture, increase flexibility and balance, uniting of body and mind for an overall sense of well-being. $50 for an 8 session punch card. Metro Health Hospital, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming. 616-252-7117.
Join our Natural Awakenings group on facebook and we’ll directly alert you of upcoming happenings and events.
Saturday Naturopathic School of Ann Arbor – Open House. Classes, diploma programs, full spectrum of natural healing arts. Hands on experiential mentored setting. Meets specific weekends, lodging offered. NaturopathicSchoolofAnnArbor.net. 734-769-7794.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
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Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 9:00-10:15am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Donation Yoga – 10:00am. Yoga should be accessible to everyone regardless of their financial situation. This class is taught on donation-basis, donation meaning “the act of giving.” At the end of class, there is an urn provided for your donation, suggested at $12 per class. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy SE Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541. Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 10:30-11:45am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Free Pilates Mat Work Class – 10:4511:45am. Beginner & intermediate levels. Bring your own mat. RSVP required. BodyMind Pilates Studio 6504 28th St, Ste H, Grand Rapids. 616-516-6832. Kids Yoga – 12:30-1:15pm. With Barb Badolati. $38 for 6 weeks. Register at MuskegonYoga.com or call Muskegon Yoga Center, 825 Western Ave, Muskegon. 231-668-4181.
classifieds BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
C U R R E N T LY P U B L I S H I N G NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES – For sale in Asheville NC, Birmingham/ Huntsville AL, Denver CO, Mobile AL, Morris County NJ, and New York City, NY. Call for details 239-530-1377.
FOR SALE
House, Barn & 7 acre Farm on Lowell schools bus line. 2,500 sq. ft. Rustic cedar sided New England saltbox with cedar sided 2-story barn. 4-bedrooms, 2 ½ baths. Large country kitchen with island and walk-in brick fireplace, wide pine plank floors, wood ceilings & beams. Living/family room has large stone fireplace $289,000. More land available. Call 616-443-8446.
RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES
Fully furnished office space with massage table for rent. Space is available at hourly or daily rates. Contact The Collective at 616-446-6906 or thecollective147@gmail.com for more information.
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
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
SAMIR RAJANI, MD
DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC
Medical Acupuncturist mmpc Internal Medicine 890 S. Washington, Ste. 130 Holland: 616-396-1907 www.mmpc.com Medical acupuncture can be an effective treatment for many chronic conditions, including pain, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Samir Rajani, MD is certified in medical acupuncture and practices at mmpc Internal Medicine.
ALTERNATIVE HEALTH PRACTITIONER
Dr. Ronson Dykstra & Dr. Ronda VanderWall 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville 616-531-6050 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.
CLEANING SERVICE NATURAL HOME CLEANING SERVICE, LLC
Effective, Environmentally Friendly Results Sherri Geysbeek 616-887-1504
OUT of the BLUE inc. Nancy Despres RN, MBE 351 Cummings NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-4215 www.OutofTheBlueInc.net
Out of the Blue help others find alternative ways for achieving optimal health through the use of homeopathy, enzyme therapy, nutritional supplements and hair mineral analysis.
BODYWORK WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com
Certified Massage Therapist offering Therapeutic & LaStone Massage. Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, and a Certified Reflexologist. See ad, page 8.
BOOKSTORE INDIGO’S AND MYSTIC’S BOOK EXCHANGE & MORE 4485 Plainfield Ave, NE, Grand Rapids 616-447-8298 www.Iambemore.com
Featuring used books and new books based on personal growth, spirituality, music, handcrafted book accessories and other gift items. There are also book groups, classes & seminars held monthly. See ad pages 10 & 15.
Residential and Commercial Green Cleaning. Bonded and Insured. Serving all of West Michigan. info@cleanednatural.com
COLON HYDROTHERAPY HARMONY ‘N HEALTH Mary De Lange, CCT., CMT. 1003 Maryland Av., N.E. Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 www.harmonynhealth.net
Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment. Using a holistic approach colonics relieve constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloat, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad page 5.
THE BODY CENTER-HOLLAND Marcella Clark, CMMT, CCHT Kristy Hardinge, CCHT, I-ACT member 650 Riley Street , Ste A Holland, MI 49424 616-834-2596
Gentle, effective and professional colon cleansing designed to drop toxin levels and improve nutrient absorption. Get relief from bloating and constipation, fatigue and arthritis pain. Warm, secure environment. www.TheBodyCenter.us. See ad page 19.
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COLON HYDROTHERAPY
DENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER
TRICIA E. GOSLING Holistic Care Approach 3368 Beltline Ct NE Grand Rapids 616-481-9074
Offering an advanced clientcentered dimension of colonics: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 13 years of experience. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions.
Comprehensive Holistic Dental Services – Amalgam Removal & Replacement. Bio-Compatible, metal-free materials, Low-Dose Digital X-Rays, Gentle Anesthesia. See ad page 40.
AMA DEUS®
DAN ELLINGER, MA, LLP
supervised by Psy. D. Mark Mahacek Healing Ground Wellness Center 857 Summit, Muskegon, MI. 49441 231-755-3832 Stress Management, Neuro Emotional Technique (N.E.T.) practitioner helping to identify & let go of ‘stuck’ emotional patterns. 30 years of counseling experience, a holistic health care approach & setting. Affordable & confidential.
HOLISTIC COUNSELING SERVICES Deborah Jandle, L.M.S.W 346 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids 616-862-3296 www.DeborahJandle.com
Providing services that emphasize balance in mind, body and spirit in order to improve problems related to mental health, family issues or addictions. Insurance accepted, including Priority Health.
JANICE DE LANGE, PH.D
Beth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 www.Ama-Deusenergy.com Ama Deus healing energy method is a hand mediated technique aligned with love. The energy helps to enhance one’s own and others growth and awareness or physical and emotional healing. See ad page 21.
ESSENTIAL OILS BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILS
Clara Vander Zouwen 616-698-6148 www.NaturalHealth4Today.com Offering Be Young therapeutic essential oils, MASAJI whole food drink, Organic meal replacement shakes, Mineral make-up. Services: Ionic detoxing foot baths, Physical and Emotional balancing, biofeedback readings. See ad page 9.
HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER THE WELLNESS FORUM
1514 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids 616-451-3008 JDelange06@yahoo.com www.JaniceDeLange.com A mind-body-spirit approach for trauma and abuse recovery, PTSD, low sense of self-worth, panic & phobias, anxiety, depression, relationships. EMDR & Energy interventions.
PRISCILLA SANDERS
Sue Scharf, Director 830 Forest Hill Ave., Grand Rapids 616-942-7907 www.WellnessForum.com An international organization committed to health and wellness through education. Learn to make a healthy lifestyle easier through classes, workshops and cooking demos.
HEALTH FOOD STORES AFFORDABLE NUTRITION
The Body Center 650 Riley Street, Ste A Holland, MI 49424 616-836-1819. www.LearnToStressLess.com Licensed clinical master social worker specializing in stress management. Workshops are offered at “Learn To Stress Less”, on site at the Body Center Studio. Workshops focus on learning about and experiencing modalities that create relaxation and relieve stress. See ad page 19.
West Michigan Edition
Dr. Kevin P. Flood DDS 4990 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids 616-974-4990 www.FloodTheDentist.com
ENERGY HEALING
COUNSELING
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DENTISTRY / HOLISTIC
Joel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner 7493 Cottonwood Drive, Jenison 616-667-1346 Certified Nutritional Consultant – member AANC, MI-CNHP, NPA. Nutritional counseling, weight loss, sports nutrition, senior discounts. Available for seminars/ lectures. Select high quality vitamins and supplements.
NaturalWestMichigan.com
HEALTH HUTT
Grand Haven - 616-846-3026 Muskegon - 231-739-1568 North Muskegon - 231-744-0852 www.HealthHutt.net Natural & organic foods, vitamins & herbs, sports nutrition, gluten free foods, books, natural body care and more. Open 7 days a week. See ad, page 15.
NATURE’S MARKET
1013 S. Washington, Holland 616-394-5250 www.NaturesMarketHolland.com Full service natural food store with all natural/organic deli. Offering organic and natural groceries. Gluten-free products. Organic and local produce. Supplements and natural body care products. See ad, page 12.
UTOPIAN MARKETPLACE 8832 Water St., Montague 231-894-9530 www.UtopianMarketplace.com
Our friendly, knowledgeable staff provides a personalized shopping experience. We have a large selection of gluten-free foods, clothing, jewelry, herbs, supplements, local foods, gifts and more. Open Mic events every month. See ad, page 36.
HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTERS THE HEALING CENTER
352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com Naturopathic / Holistic Practitioners. Licensed Physician Assistant, Certified Natural Health Professionals. Private consultations. Counseling & Classes. Blood typing, acupressure, emotional release, iridology, homeopathy and more. See ad, page 14.
HOMEOPATHY BOB HUTTINGA
352 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com A Physician assistant since 1976, specializing in naturopathic and homeopathic care. Also, certified Silva Method instructor. See ad, page 14.
HYPNOTHERAPY Branden Wilson, BAS, CHT, CPNLP Certified Hypnotherapist, American Board of Hypnotherapy Certified Practitioner NLP, Society of NLP 616-560-1482 branden.wilson@gmail.com
Your phobia gone in an hour or less or its FREE. Eliminate unwanted habits and compulsions. Resolve inner conflicts, change your limiting beliefs, and achieve your goals. Transform guilt, shame, and grief.
KINESIOLOGY WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com
Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Massage Therapist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, Certified Reflexologist. Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling, lectures and classes. See ad page 8.
HOME BIRTH PARTNERS, LLC
Susan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH 231-652-3247 www.HomeBirthworks.com This regions only Certified Nurse Midwife with 28 years experience – over 3000 births attended. Providing pre-natal, home birth and postpartum care. Gynecological and Doula services available.
REIKI REIKI HAUS
Paula Bojsen Holland: 616-392-1138 www.ReikiHaus.com Offering quality Reiki classes & treatments at affordable prices. Certified Usui Reiki Master Teacher & Gendai Reiki Shihan. All levels, Reiki Master classes and Gendai Reiki Gokukaiden. Learn pure Japanese Reiki.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN CENTER EDEN ENVIRONMENTS
Denise Hopkins, AIA, LEED AP 5747 28th St. SE Grand Rapids 616-956-5000 www.EdenEnvironments.com Enrich your home and work environment with beautiful, healthy, sustainable design and products. Architecture, interior and landscape design, flooring, paint, cabinets, counters, furniture, accessories. Styled by nature, designed to nurture.
RETREAT CENTER THE LEAVEN CENTER
Lyons, Michigan 989-855-2606 www.leaven.org A place of beauty on the banks of the Grand River where you can find rest and nourishment for your body and spirit. Offering workshops, retreats, rental space year-round. See ad page 21.
MASSAGE THE BODY CENTER-HOLLAND
The Team 650 Riley Street, Ste A Holland, MI 49424 616-834-2596 Our Massage Team offers several techniques and modalities. From Ahh-Shiatsu, a firm Sports Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Detox, Hot Stone, Rossiter-Joint Mobility, Reiki Healing, to using Oils and Aromatherapy to nurture. See ad page 28.
MIDWIFERY Sent ---> BIRTH SONG MIDWIFERY SERVICES 12/15/2009
Yolanda Visser CM, CPM Grand Rapids 616-458-8144 www.BirthSongGR.com Homebirth services since 1982. Committed to facilitating natural birth, bonding, strengthening the family, informed active participation, and lending dignity to women through their birthing experience.
FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERY SERVICE, INC.
Patrice Bobier CM, CPM Hesperia - 231-861-2234 www.FullCircleMidwifery.com In private practice since 1982 - specializing in homebirth. Over 1200 births attended. Offering midwifery care that maintains a family-centered safe birth experience. Empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy, give birth naturally and parent in the best ways.
SALON AESTHETICA IMAGE GROUP
Sally Ann Loew 2312 28th St SE Ste C Grand Rapids, MI. 49508 616-299-1796 Full Service Salon featuring an Exclusive Organic Hair Color that uses only certified organic ingredients, contains absolutely no ammonia, yet still produces vibrant color while avoiding the itchy scalp and the toxic odors.
SKIN CARE TRACY’S FACES DAY SPA HOLISTIC SKIN CARE
Gentle Healing Yoga with Pam Fenton
7610 Cottonwood Dr., Ste 107 Jenison, MI 49428 616-667-9690 or 616-204-3402 www.TracysFaces.com Tracy’s Faces Day Spa offers a holistic relaxing experience with natural products for skin care & hair removal from head to toe. We offer Dermalogica & Elina Elite product lines. See ad page 28.
An ideal DVD for anyone new to yoga and those dealing with health issues.
$20
Order at lakeshoreyoga.com Filmed in Grand Haven, Michigan
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