Natural Awakenings Magazine ~ January 2011 by Natural Awakenings Magazine ~ West Michigan

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET feel good live simply laugh more

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Health & Well-Being CREATE YOUR 2011 WELLNESS PLAN

EXERCISE

NOW! Stay-Focused Strategies

JANUARY 2011

Foods That Fight Pain Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pharmacy

5STEPS TO

BETTER HEALTH Simple, Effective, Affordable

| West Michigan Edition | www.NaturalWest Michigan.com natural awakenings

January 2011

Naturopathy (Each year 600 hours)

Natural Health Educator ....................... 1st Year Natural Health Therapist...................... 2nd Year Natural Health Practitioner ................. 3rd Year Certified Naturopath .............................4th Year 4th Year Graduates are Eligible for Doctor of Naturopathy National Test and Title

Massage Therapy

Therapeutic Bodywork Practitioner ..1 Year

Holistic Labor Program Doula.......6 Months

All Classes Meet On Weekends Fri. 5 - 9 p.m., and Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Naturopaths - 1 per month • Massage - 2 per month

Individual Classes:

• Herbology • Aromatherapy • Nutrition • Live Food Preparation • Light Healing Touch • Reflexology • Homeopathy • And More!

15 Years of Excellence

503 E. Broadway • Mt. Pleasant, Michigan • (989) 773-1714 www.nite-mtp.com 2

Mt. Pleasant is 90 minutes North East of Grand Rapids Accredited by the American Naturopathic Medical Association West Michigan Edition NaturalWestMichigan.com

contents 10

10 globalbriefs

11 ecobriefs

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.

14 healthbriefs

18 greenliving

23 wisewords

17 inspiration

29 consciouseating 32 healingways

THE JOY OF HEALTH A Conversation with Dr. Dean Ornish on Lifestyle Changes that Foster Well-Being by April Thompson

26 FIVE STEPS TO

BETTER HEALTH How Integrative Medicine

36 fitbody

Can Make Health Care Simpler, More Effective and More Affordable

38 healthykids

by Marco Visscher, Ursula Sautter and Carmel Wroth

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

News Briefs & article submissions Email articles to: Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for articles is the 5th of the month prior to publication. Submit News Briefs online at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Deadline for news briefs is the 12th of the month prior to publication.

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

WHERE TO PICK UP NATURAL AWAKENINGS If you enjoyed this magazine and would like to know where you can pick up a free copy in your area, please contact us at 616656-9232 or email us at: publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com

29 FOODS THAT

FIGHT PAIN A Tasty, Colorful Banquet

by Michelle Schoffro Cook

32 HONORING OUR LIFE FORCE

Energy Medicine Helps Restore Balance and Harmony by Linda Sechrist

36 EXERCISE NOW!

Stick-With-It Tips Keep Your New Year’s Resolution Going by Gretchen Rubin

38 RAISING HEALTHY EATERS How to Train Children’s Palates from the Cradle On by Jeannette Bessinger

and Tracee Yablon Brenner

Check us out and connect with us on Twitter & Facebook! Twitter — Find us at NaturallyWestMI Facebook — Find us at Natural Awakenings of West Michigan

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January 2011

letterfrompublishers

contact us Publishers Kyle & Amy Hass Editors S. Alison Chabonais Scott Gillis 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. © 2011 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call 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.

t’s hard to comprehend that 2011 is already here. It’s been a good year for West Michigan, for Natural Awakenings and for our family. Yet, as Kyle and I reflected on our progress, we feel we could have accomplished even more. So we decided that we will in 2011. So, we have made out our 2011 list of intentions, which are similar to traditional New Year’s resolutions. But we seem to accomplish more of them when we internalize them as intentions. In the past, we named a goal a resolution, when we took a detour, it was difficult to get back on track. Typically, we would give up on the whole list until the following year. When we set an intention, however, it gives us permission to mess up, try again right away and keep working at it until we can check it off as accomplished. We also created a three page to-do list because I create lists for everything. I would make a list about all of my lists if I thought it would help. When I was growing up, Dad always had a yellow pad of paper nearby where he would write reminder lists and set an example for us kids, and it’s still true to this day. Kyle makes fun of my lists, but deep down I think he appreciates my organizational skills. A year ago, in our January 2010 publisher’s letter, we predicted that the year would be a good one for West Michigan and we’re glad we were right. We see many positive changes. Business are starting to thrive again, new businesses are popping up all over, old buildings are being restored to beautiful works of art thanks to Art Prize, and West Michigan is becoming much more conscious of ecologically friendly ways of operating. Kyle and I are proud to be a part of this community enlightenment and eager to see what more 2011 will bring. Natural Awakenings enjoyed a good year thanks to all of you, and we know that 2011 is going to be even better. We have exciting things in store, starting with our Natural Awakenings Network (NAN). This natural health care card program gives members amazing discounts on our area’s natural health and green products and services. We’ll also link into a national network, so that you can take advantage of discounts offered by providers around the country when you travel. If your business would like to offer a discount and be a part of the NAN card, the first year is free for all participating businesses. Give us a call and we can make it happen. For individuals interested in getting your hands on one of these amazing cards, stay tuned for upcoming details on how you can purchase one. We anticipate making the cards available in the next couple of months. Whether you had a rough or a ravishing 2010, January marks the beginning of fresh opportunities. The secret is in making lists, you know, so that you can start checking them off. Wishing you a prosperous 2011!

Natural Awakenings is printed on 100% recycled newsprint with soy based ink.

West Michigan Edition

Amy and Kyle NaturalWestMichigan.com

newsbriefs Anusara Yoga Workshop with Moses Brown

oses Brown, a Certified Anusara Yoga Teacher who has been teaching throughout Maryland since 1991, will be at Expressions o f G r a c e Yo g a January 28-30th for an Anusara Yoga Wo r k s h o p . H e also leads Anusara Yo g a Te a c h e r Trainings, Anusara I m m e r s i o n Programs and Moses Brown teaches workshops both nationally and internationally. Moses believes that yoga should be a heart-opening experience that is both supportive as well as empowering to the student. His teachings create an approach that is physically dynamic, mentally stimulating and therapeutic. Moses brings focus, concentration, and mindfulness to his classes, weaving them together with playfulness, joy and FUN! This workshop is not suitable for those students who don’t enjoy laughter during their practice and who can’t sustain long periods of being happy without a reason.

SHORELINE WOMEN’S CENTER

WATER BIRTHING Southwest Michigan’s only water birthing program.

Eva Fronk, CNM

Ask our midwives if Water Birth is for you! Contact: Shoreline Women’s Center 269.639.2720 Monday through Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Mercedes Moran, CNM

For more information contact Expressions of Grace Yoga, 5270 Northland Dr NE in Grand Rapids. 616-361-8580 or www.eogyoga.com. See ad page 16 &28

Open House

he Yoga Studio, located in a light filled East Hills storefront, has come a long way since 1978 when Carolyn Heines first began teaching out of a small room in her home. Long before the general public even knew what yoga was, Carolyn honed her teaching skills in countless locations across Grand Rapids in addition to her home. In those early years, Carolyn could be seen transporting yoga mats, blankets and other yoga props from place to place which earned the studio the nickname “The Mobile Yoga Studio.” In 1998, Carolyn moved the studio to a dedicated space on Carlton Ave. At long last she was able keep all the yoga props in one place. After 2 more moves, the studio now employs 4 experienced teachers in addition to Carolyn: Chris Smith, Kat McKinney, Deb Weiss-Gelmi and Sarah Weber.

Circle Pines Center Couples’ Massage Weekend February 11-13

For More Information: Call: 269.623.5555 OR Email: info@circlepinescenter.net www.circlepinescenter.org

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January 2011

After 34 years of teaching and running The Yoga Studio on her own, Carolyn is delighted to announce that on January 1, 2011, Kat McKinney will become a co-owner of the studio. Carolyn and Kat will be working together to continue to provide the quality classes the Grand Rapids community has come to know and expect. Ownership of the studio will transition over the next 5 years as Kat learns the business side of operating the studio. Carolyn reports no plans to stop teaching just yet, but says “I am grateful to have a plan to leave the studio in such capable hands.” In addition to pursuing teacher certification in the Iyengar tradition, Kat is also a licensed physical therapist assistant. Kat says, “It’s an honor to become a part of the yoga community that Carolyn has created and nurtured over the years. I look forward to keeping Grand Rapids’ first yoga studio thriving for a long time to come.” The Yoga Studio is celebrating this new chapter of their history with an open house and invites the community to join them on Saturday, January 29 from 6:00 - 9:30pm at 955 Cherry SE Grand Rapids. Refreshments will be served. For more information, visit The Yoga Studio’s website at www.gryoga.com or follow them on Facebook: http://www. facebook.com/theyogastudiogr. See ad page16

New Pilates Studio Offers Reformer Private Sessions

lign Fitness of Holland Pilates studio is the only certified STOTT PILATES studio in Holland, offering Pilates Mat and Barre Fitness group classes, and much sought after, Reformer

Private Sessions. “The amazing aspect of the Pilates Reformer is it forces you to discover the smaller muscles of the body; it teaches you body awareness,” explains Christine Towns, owner and STOTT Certified Instructor. The spring resistance allows you to work precisely and ensures good alignment. And the variable tension helps you to work through the full range of motion. For example, everyone knows that the majority of work in a bicep curl is done as you curl your arm up, but a bicep curl on the Reformer encourages you to control on the release as well, doubling the impact of a very simple exercise. Along with being the only STOTT PILATES studio in Holland, Align Fitness is also among the first in West Michigan to showcase Barre Fitness classes. Choreographed to today’s hottest music, the “Align at the Barre” class incorporates hand weights and other tools to add variety. The key to sticking to any fitness routine or class is variety, to always be challenging your muscles and your brain in new ways. This will help keep you interested and work your muscles more effectively because they never get used to the same routine. Visit www.AlignFitnessofHolland.com to get more information on Reformer Sessions, classes and prices, or call 616-9280929 to schedule a personal tour of the studio with Christine. See ad page 17

You are here. So are we. Childbirth Your Way Welcome Susan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH, Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified Nurse Midwife Susan Wente, CNM, Dr.Ph. has joined Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial Obstetrics and Gynecology. Susan’s approach to childbirth includes listening to each patient’s individual vision and working with her to customize an approach to childbirth that is uniquely her own. She works with each woman to create: • A relationship of trust • A birth plan that supports individual choice • A joyous, compassionate birth experience • Treatment and health care support throughout a woman’s life stages Susan also has the complete support of the three excellent OB/GYN physicians on her team, Melissa Bayne, DO, Tami Michele, DO and James Patenge, DO. Most insurance plans accepted. Call 231.924.1212 for an appointment, or visit us at gerberhospital.org/html/obgyn.html.

West Michigan Edition

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Workshop to Explore the Power of Story in Recovery

he Leaven Center in Lyons welcomes story and teaching artist Jenifer Strauss for a weekend workshop January 2830th titled “The Power of the Recovery Story: Heal, Connect, and Advocate.” The program is designed for mental health consumers, providers, students, teachers, and anyone interested in the power of story to heal. “Our own life experience is mirrored in the stories that others tell,” Strauss explains. “When we know our own story, we understand ourselves better. When we listen to the story that others tell, we understand others and Jenifer Strauss ourselves better. Only then can we begin to heal our lives and help others do the same.” During this motivational and energy-injected workshop, Strauss will take participants on a journey of personal narrative, using her Personal Narrative Model called “Turning Points!”™ a storytelling and story writing tool for awareness, clarity, healing and recovery. They will travel down a road to healing one story at a time, arriving at the end with new understanding, tolerance, and acceptance. They also will come away with a tool for advocacy that will allow them to better serve themselves and each other in recovery, and which can be used long after the workshop concludes. The workshop begins Friday at 7:00 p.m. and ends Sunday after lunch. The cost is $215, which includes program, room and meals. Partial scholarships may be available. For more information and to register, visit www.leaven.org or call 989-855-2606. Contact Karen D. Bota, Leaven Center. 989-855-2606 or at karenbota@leaven.org. See ad page 47

Clean Energy = Michigan Jobs

nvesting in Michigan-made clean energy will inject prosperity into the economy and stimulate new job growth throughout the state. Global demand for clean energy products is skyrocketing. By positioning ourselves as leaders in advanced-battery technology, solar component manufacturing and wind turbine production, Michigan businesses will cultivate global markets. In Michigan, we import 100% of our coal, 100% of our uranium, 97% of our petroleum and 80% of our natural gas. This amounts to more than $26 billion being permanently shipped out of the Michigan economy annually1. Homegrown clean energy ventures will produce jobs here in Michigan and keep money circulating locally. For more information visit www.2010cleanenergy.org/states/Michigan/ Source: 1 MPSC 2008 Michigan Energy Overview Article from www.dleg.state.mi.us/mpsc/reports/energy/ energyoverview/

2011 Michigan Organic Conference

he 2011 MOC “Keeping the Local in Organic” will be held at the Kellogg Convention Center located on the Michigan State University campus in East Lansing, MI. The conference will be held between March 4 and 5 and will include: a keynote speaker, educational sessions, an organic luncheon, and the popular “Taste of Michigan” event. Mark Kastel of the Cornucopia Institute will be the keynote speaker. New for this year MOFFA will host a special “Taste of Michigan” event and mixer featuring live music on Friday March 4 at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center. For more information visit www.moffa.org. Source moffa.org.

natural awakenings

January 2011

The Body Center is Expanding

he Body Center opens Yoga Studio & Adds more Detox solutions with a Far Infrared Sauna. We are bringing Yoga Classes back to the North Side of Holland with our totally remodeled Spa/Studio! Starting January, we will have six Yoga classes per week and Two free education/mediation classes per month. Check out our website for details. Add a Sauna before a class in January or February for only $7.50. Contact Marcella Clark at The Body Center, 650 Riley Street, Suite A in Holland. marcy@thebodycenter.us or 616-836-1271. See ad page 46

Yoga For Every Room in Your House

injer Stanton, a Minneapolis based yoga teacher and writer has written a book called Yoga for Every Room in Your House (YFERIYH). YFERIYH is a cheerful how-to for using household furnishings as yoga props when there is too little space for unrolling a mat and spreading out. Many people who love yoga find it nearly impossible to do yoga outside of class, because of space limitations. This book makes it easy. If you view former obstacles as props, every room in the house can act as a yoga studio (or a piece of one). Key audiences are yogis with cramped living quarters, yoga students wanting to easily fit yoga into their daily lives, office workers wanting to avoid repetitive stress conditions and persons with disabilities who would like to do what yoga they can. For more information visit www.jinjerstanton.com/ Book.htm for additional information.

Quality of Life Expo

atural Awakenings Puerto Rico announces the celebration of its 7th annual Quality of Life Expo in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The event, to be held from March 4 through 6, 2011, has been the largest event focused on natural health, spiritual growth, fitness, nutrition and green living for the past six years in the Caribbean, with over 125 companies and organizations onsite offering information and resources.

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Over a 100 lectures and demonstrations are scheduled throughout the weekend, presented by local and international guest speakers. With a wide range of holistic services, natural products, sustainable living, lectures and workshops, visitors will find new and fun ways to enhance their lifestyles. This year we will showcase a Women Empowerment Special Program, featuring internationally renowned Sierra Bender, author of Goddess to the Core, with workshops for female teens & adults. Registration is currently open for qualified exhibitors who have wellness as their main goal and valuable services to share with the public. Because space is very limited and the number of businesses represented per industry will be restricted, interested exhibitors are strongly encouraged to register now. For more information visit www.expocalidaddevida.com or call toll free 1-866-692-7888 or 787-297-8818.

Launching New Health Network

he new Natural Awakenings Network (NAN) will allow people to obtain membership cards that will provide discounts on products and services focused on wellness; green and sustainable living; and natural, healthy lifestyles. NAN’s extensive network across the nation will encompass practitioners of alternative and complementary medicine, including chiropractic, naturopathy, acupuncture, body work and energy work, as well as health and fitness clubs, health food stores, yoga centers, bookstores, green and sustainable living products, spas, vegetarian/healthy restaurants, and much more. Natural Awakenings is currently looking for businesses that focus on natural health, and/or sustainable living to become providers in our discount network. Providers must be willing to offer members a discount on products and/or services for a minimum of a 12 month period. As a Natural Awakenings Network Provider, You Can: • Expand your customer base and increase your income • Receive referrals from our Customer Service Center • Be part of a network dedicated to promoting healthy and

green lifestyles • Participate Free for the First Year • And many other benefits For more information on how your West Michigan business can become a NAN provider, contact Natural Awakenings Magazine at Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com or call 616-656-9232. See ad page 25

Homesteading Workshop Series Continues by Making Cheese

oin experienced goat farmer Marge Perrin and learn to make cheese in your own kitchen. This hands-on, introductory workshop will explore the lost art of turning farm fresh milk into delicious homemade curds. Marge will cover the equipment needs and basic principles behind the process. The emphasis will be on chevre, fresh soft cheese made from goat’s milk. Together, we will also make yogurt, as well as discuss and explore the many uses for homemade cheese and whey in baking and cooking. The workshop will include: samples, cheese to take home, recipes and a cheese culture to get you started. Circle Pines Center is located on 294 acres of rolling hills, approximately 25 miles southeast of Grand Rapids. Tuition includes two nights’ lodging; access to lakeside sauna and miles of x-country ski trails; and five delicious, from-scratch meals made with locally produced, organic ingredients.

We all have a hand in creating the community where we want to live. It is the support of our wonderful advertisers that makes it possible to provide this resource to you each month. Please support the businesses that support us... and be sure to mention you saw them in Natural Awakenings.

For more information, visit circlepinescenter.org or call 269623-5555. See ad page 5

Kudos

Third Coast Yoga Studio of Spring Lake is now a registered yoga school (RYS 200) and recognized by the National Yoga Alliance, a national organization committed to maintaining the integrity and professionalism of yoga teachers and teacher training programs. Third Coast Yoga School’s lead teacher, Gretchen Cline, E-RYT 500, is excited to be able to offer a program for those yoga students who want to deepen their own practice and those who want to gain the credentials and valuable teaching experience. The students in the class of 2011 will become certified and registered yoga teachers (RYTs) in May. Visit www.thirdcoastyoga.com for information about current class offerings and the 200 hour level teacher training program. See ad page 17

January’s Amateur Photo Contest Winner... Joel Manning of Jenison. How beautiful does this moon look? It’s so big it almost looks close enough to reach out and touch. Congratulations Joel, you will be receiving a $60 Gift Certificate towards CranioSacral Therapy, Reiki or Raindrop Technique with Jan Atwood, LLC, Bodywork Practioner. Thank you to Jan Atwood for donating this month’s prize. Jan Atwood’s ad can be found on page 39 natural awakenings

January 2011

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

Vital Signs

Lifetime Educational Achievement is Up Worldwide Worldwatch Institute reports that people all over the world are completing more years of schooling than ever before, according to the latest data out of Austria. Just over 3 billion, or 61 percent of the global population 15 years or older, had finished at least some secondary schooling during their lifetime as of 2010. That’s up from 36 percent in 1970 and 50 percent in 1990, and includes those who went on to even higher education. Having advanced to secondary school or beyond indicates that individuals are better prepared for the future. Sources: International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis and Vienna Institute of Demography

Sound Play

Birds, Like Humans, Sing Just Because They Can Animal researchers like Gisela Kaplan, Ph.D., and Irene Pepperberg, Ph.D., have determined that birds not only sing to communicate daily needs, many engage in sound play, most often when they’re alone, but sometimes also when humans are present. Some species continually improvise their singing with new elements, phrases and sequences, reports Kaplan, a professor at the Research Centre for Neuroscience and Animal Behaviour at the University of New England, Australia. Nightingales and canaries are among the avian virtuosos, reinventing their repertoire in each successive season, while the brown thrasher may hold the record at close to 2,000 song types. Nightingales, she notes, organize their compositions according to rules of construction similar to the way humans use syntax. These birds even create distinctive phrases that identify them as individuals. Kaplan’s own recordings of Australian magpies reveal how the bird’s voice moves across four octaves, varies its phrasing between staccato and legato, and embellishes sequences with vibrato, trills or deep overtones. More, it will close a completed song with a signature phrase, in much the same way that a painter initials a finished canvas. 10

West Michigan Edition

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Nature’s Cure

Monarch Butterfly Behavior Hints of Self-Medication As with many species, Monarch butterflies’ bright coloring warns predators of the insects’ potential toxicity, which in many cases is true. Biologists have now discovered that female Monarchs infected with a particularly noxious parasite will choose to lay their eggs on a more toxic version of milkweed, their basic food foliage, which works to reduce pass-along parasite infection in their offspring and is harmless to the larvae. “These experiments provide the best evidence to date that animals use medication,” says Jaap de Roode, the biologist who led the Emory University study. Some scientists theorize that animals’ practice of self-doctoring by using nature’s medicine cabinet may be more widespread than we realize.

Our attitude toward life determines life’s attitude towards us. ~ Earl Nightingale

ecobriefs Green Marketplace

Environmentally Conscious Behavior is Encouraging With more organic foods and sustainable products becoming available, it’s a bit easier to go green these days, and consumers are responding. The latest annual study by the Natural Marketing Institute finds that we are increasingly taking bags with us to the store, avoiding brands that don’t reflect our values and making better transportation choices, including carpooling and using public transit.

Green Rollout

Reliable Source

Americans Trust Scientists for Information on Global Warming A national study of what Americans know about the causes and effects of global warming, along with potential solutions, reveals a general acknowledgement of our limited understanding. According to the Yale Project on Climate Change Communication, only 10 percent believe they are “very well informed,” while 75 percent say they would like to know more about the issue. Likewise, 75 percent want America’s schools to teach our children about climate change, while 68 percent would welcome a national program to make us all better informed. Overall, 63 percent of the Americans surveyed believe that global warming is occurring, but only about half of our citizens make the connection between human activities and greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Just 25 percent have ever heard of ocean acidification. Meanwhile, a large majority incorrectly thinks that global warming is somehow related to the hole in the ozone layer and that banning aerosol spray cans and stopping rockets from punching holes in the ozone blanket are viable solutions to the problem.

Gigantic Grid

Global Benefits of World’s Largest Public Computing Project A recent big idea has IBM’s World Community Grid tapping into the computing power of millions of linked personal computers to help solve the global water crisis. Scientists from China, Brazil and the United States will make use of formerly idle processing capacity among volunteered PCs to develop water filtering technology, clean up polluted waterways and find treatments for water-related diseases. While the idea of aggregating thousands of individual computers to create a virtual supercomputer to process data is not new, Grist.org reports that it’s the first time the approach has been used to tackle one of the planet’s bigger environmental problems. To do that, the scientists need to run millions of computer simulations as part of their Computing for Clean Water project. “They believe they can collapse tens or even hundreds of years of trial and error into mere months,” says spokesperson Ari Fishkind. To join the Clean Water or Clean Energy projects, download the software at WorldCommunityGrid.org.

2011 Launches Electric Rental Cars Enterprise Rent-A-Car leads the competition in rolling out the first round of rental electric vehicles this month in eight markets supported by charging stations. Customers can initially rent these gas-free vehicles in Los Angeles, Knoxville, Nashville, San Diego, Seattle, Portland, Oregon, and Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. The cars can be charged using a standard 110-volt home outlet or a 220-volt or 480-volt commercial charging station. Most EVs can travel about 100 miles on a single charge, accommodating the travel habits of the typical commuter that averages 30 to 40 miles a day. “With airport and neighborhood locations within 15 miles of 90 percent of the U.S. population, [we can] test the market viability of new alternative fuel technologies like the electric vehicle with daily commuters nationwide,” says Lee Broughton, director of sustainability for Enterprise Holdings, operator of the Enterprise, Alamo and National brands. The company already manages the world’s largest fleet of fuelefficient vehicles, including nearly 7,000 gas/electric hybrid vehicles. Additional corporate sustainability initiatives include Enterprise Institute for Renewable Fuels’ research into biofuels aimed to reduce both energy use and energy cost by 20 percent over the next five years. For more, visit KeysToGreen.com.

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January 2011

ecotip Retail Solutions

Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle Plastic Bags Studies tell us that plastic grocery bags consume less energy to produce, transport and recycle than paper grocery sacks. The problem is that the vast majority of them do not get recycled. This modern “urban tumbleweed” clogs our gutters, kills wildlife and makes the world less beautiful. Worldwatch Institute estimates that the United States throws away 100 billion plastic shopping bags every year. Here are 24 ways to prevent that. n Bring reusable totes and plastic bags to stores. n Go through the self-checkout to add more items to each bag. n Put items in a purse or briefcase or carry them out. n Use a plastic grocery bag to clean up behind the dog and scoop

For your first step to Weight Loss and more Energy, try the BeYoung Liver Cleanse Recipe! Tastes delicious and only costs pennies a day.

Call Clara: 616.698.6148 www.NaturalHealth4Today.com

SHORELINE CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Helping you balance your mind, body and spirit.

At Shoreline Center for Integrative Medicine, alternative therapies are used in conjunction with conventional medicine to achieve optimal health and healing. Our patient centered care is personally tailored for you to achieve your maximum health and wellness. We also offer laser hair removal, laser vein reduction and skin care services with a full line of La-Roche Posay products.

save energy. n Cut the bags into loops and knot them together into plastic “yarn,” to make braided rugs, woven baskets and crocheted bags. n Fuse plastic bags together to create plastic fabric. n Support companies that use recycled plastic, from makers of handmade African crafts to designer chairs and composite decking. Source: Adapted from RusticGirls.com

Lori Dotson, M.D. • Berti Ferree-Young, R.N. Shoreline Center for Integrative Medicine 950 S. Bailey Avenue South Haven, MI

269.639.2833 www.shch.org

Monday through Wednesday and Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

West Michigan Edition

out the litter box.

n Donate bags to a local dog park and animal shelter. n Wrap homemade bread in a clean, plastic grocery bag to keep it fresh. n Reuse plastic bags to pack lunches. n Line a cutting board for easy cleanup of messy jobs; collect vegetable shavings. n Use a clean bag as a non-stick surface for rolling out dough. n Substitute twisted bags for rope or plastic zip ties. n Use plastic bags as packing material, instead of Styrofoam packing peanuts. n Line paint trays with plastic bags before pouring in paint for easy cleanup. n Keep bags in the trunk of the car for emergencies. n Reuse plastic grocery bags as camping trip garbage bags. n Pick up bags at the park or along the road to collect garbage and recyclable litter. n Keep plastic grocery bags in the diaper bag. n Donate bags to local libraries, thrift stores and daycare centers. Offering Health Coaching in use of nTherapeutic For travel, wrap plastic bag around the toiletry bag to contain spills. Essential Oils, a Cleanses, Pain Relief,around Hormone Issues, n Tie bags both feet to keep shoes clean when traversing a muddy area. as well as Detoxing Foot Baths, Body Balancing & Biofeedback Scans. n Protect work surfaces with plastic bags when doing messy crafts. n Make recycled fabric tubes stuffed with plastic bags to block drafts and

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Reusable totes can be an environmental boon, vastly reducing the number of disposable bags that wind up in landfills. If each bag is used twice a week, five reusable bags can replace 520 bags a year. Source: Nick Sterling, research director, Natural Capitalism Solutions

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natural awakenings

January 2011

COMING IN FEBRUARY

healthbriefs

Natural Relief for Colds and Flu

RELAX & RECHARGE Find ways to de-stress and create more balance in your life in our February edition.

ith cold season in full swing, it’s good to know that we don’t have to rush to the nearest drug store to get relief. Using natural remedies—many of which may already be in the house—can be just as effective. Although such steps don’t claim to cure what ails us, they can bring comfort and often shorten the duration of illness by strengthening the immune system. Here are six helpful tips: Herbal Teas: Chamomile can help cold and flu sufferers relax and get muchneeded rest. Hot ginger tea, spiced with cinnamon and a dash of cayenne, will keep the body feeling warm when we have the chills. Sage: Gargling regularly with sage tea disinfects the mouth; sage-based inhalations further reduce inflammation of the mucous membranes. Garlic: Garlic is a natural antibiotic that also stimulates the immune system and wards off complications such as bronchitis. Homeopathy: The homeopathic remedy Arsenicum album helps when one feels chilly and exhausted. Belladonna is suggested when the symptoms are sudden and intense. Bryonia alba relieves headaches, coughs and irritability and Allium cepa is good for watery discharge. Consult a holistic practitioner to determine potency and doses. Humidifiers: Nothing irritates sensitive nasal passages and sore throats like dry air. Add a few drops of eucalyptus food-grade essential oil to a humidifier to help open airways and clear congestion. Moist heat compresses: When plagued by a throbbing head and difficulty in breathing through the nose, try applying warm moist compresses— perhaps with a drop of peppermint food-grade essential oil—to the cheeks and sinuses. Sources: AssociatedContent.com, eHow.com, HolisticOnline.com, WebMD.com

Build Muscle with Weightlifting Lite

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West Michigan Edition

e know that maintaining muscle mass is important to good health, especially as we age. But is it really obligatory to lift heavy weights to keep muscles in shape? Not necessarily, says a new study conducted at McMaster University, in Ontario, Canada, which shows that effective muscle building also can be achieved by using lighter weights and pumping until the muscles in the targeted area are fatigued. “Rather than grunting and straining to lift heavy weights, you can grab something much lighter, but you have to lift until you can’t lift it anymore,” says Stuart Phillips, associate professor of kinesiology at the university. “We’re convinced that growing muscle means stimulating your muscle to make new muscle proteins, a process in the body that over time, accumulates into bigger muscles.” The new paradigm contradicts current gym dogma and is welcome news for those who cannot lift heavy weights or simply don’t want to.

NaturalWestMichigan.com

The Scent that Helps Us Sleep

nsomnia, feelings of restlessness and irritability are widespread symptoms that negatively impact our quality of life. But there’s an alternative to sleeping pills and sedatives, say German researchers. At RuhrUniversität-Bochum, they have discovered that a nose full of jasmine scent is as effective in soothing, relieving anxiety and promoting sleep as the most commonly prescribed medications. In their study, the researchers worked with mice that inhaled jasmine scent released into their Plexiglas cage, and then ceased all motion and sat quietly in a corner. The researchers explained that the calming scent molecules proceed from the lungs into the blood, and then are transmitted to the brain, where they affect neurons responsible for the sleep-wake cycle. When the mice were injected with a chemical variation of jasmine, the results were similar. In working to balance neurotransmitters in the brain, the researchers suggest that the scent of jasmine acts as strongly as a range of today’s psychotropic drugs. Remarks Bochum cell physiologist and smell researcher Hanns Hatt, “The results can also be seen as evidence of a scientific basis for aromatherapy.”

Rethinking Calcium Supplements

Mushrooms for Health

new Agricultural Research Service study reports that mushrooms may play an important role in maintaining health. Researchers found that white button mushrooms may promote immune function by increasing production of antiviral and other proteins that are released by cells seeking to protect and repair tissue. Source: United States Department of Agriculture

ew research warns that calcium supplements can be associated with a 30 percent increased risk of heart attacks. The findings were consistent across trials and were independent of the age and sex of those researched, as well as the type of supplement. The researchers stress that these findings only pertain to calcium supplements, and not to higher dietary intake through calcium-rich foods. Source: British Medical Journal, 2010

Brain Function Lessens with Obesity

New research from Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine confirms that being overweight adversely affects the brain function of older women in terms of their memory, reasoning and other mental skills. The surprise is that the effect appears to be even more pronounced in women who carry excess weight around their hips, known as pear shapes, than those who carry it around their waists, called apple shapes. natural awakenings

January 2011

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hether we’re striving to eat healthier, spend less or listen more, we refer to our stuckness with exquisite metaphors: We say “I’m frozen, paralyzed, marooned.” We say, “I can’t get started” or “I just can’t stop.” When we make New Year’s resolutions, we are promising to become unstuck. But only 63 percent of us manage to keep those resolutions, according to a University of Washington study. The researchers reported that 40 percent of the participants kept their resolutions on the first try; for the others, it took multiple attempts. The passive verbs we use to describe being stuck infer that it isn’t our fault. The hardest bit is admitting that our own choices got us here and keep us here. Sure, accidents occur—but humans are uncannily skilled at affixing balls and chains to our own ankles and swan-diving into quicksand. Becoming unstuck means first accepting a harsh truth: that we’re lazy, scared and/or strangers to our true selves. Laziness often comes disguised as denial or avoidance. Reforming means making a change, and change is strenuous. So, try this: Think of becoming unstuck as a new sport or exercise you want to learn. Think of your weak, sore spots as muscles—mental, spiritual or financial ones—and find safe, small ways to “exercise” them gradually. Like any form of fitness, this takes more than one muscle and more than one day. Move ahead gently and keep track of progress. Change means the terrors of risk and exposure, trading the familiar for potential failure. So, try this: Think of be-

coming unstuck as moving to a non-English-speaking country. How would you prepare—or help a friend prepare—for that? By calmly researching the destination before making the leap: Learn its language. Study its maps. Reach out to kind folks who already live there. Have coping strategies in place to deal with issues that will inevitably come up. Change means facing our own limitations; our own breadth. Can we change? Yes, but how much? The answer requires clear-sighted selfknowledge and crucial honesty. So, try this: Imagine the contest American Idol, with a twist; make it about the desired change. Then, imagine yourself as both contestant and judge. Give constructive criticism—and gracefully take it. Clinical Psychologist and study researcher Elizabeth Miller, Ph.D., concludes: “The keys to making a successful resolution are a person’s confidence that he or she can make the behavior change, and the commitment to making that change.” Remember: We do get to try again and can make behavior changes throughout the year, not only at New Year’s. Anneli Rufus is the author of Stuck: Why We Can’t (or Won’t) Move On (AnneliRufus.com).

natural awakenings

January 2011

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t makes no sense. First, there are the harsh chemicals used to clean the clothes. Most facilities continue to use PERC (short for percholorethylene), a suspected carcinogen that is released in cleaners’ airborne emissions, from where it can eventually contaminate soil and groundwater. With as many as 35,000 dry cleaning facilities nationwide, this poses a major public health and environmental concern. Additional commonly used drycleaning chemicals with toxic repercussions include petroleum-based solvents like Pure Dry, EcoSolve, and GreenEarth, a silicone-based solvent that breaks down into sand, water and carbon dioxide. Beyond the chemicals, standard dry-cleaning practices come with lots of built-in waste; the most obvious being the ubiquitous plastic garment covers and disposable hangers.

A New Era Aware of their planet-harming public image, dry cleaners, many of which are small, family-owned businesses, have set out to reinvent themselves in recent years. Unfortunately, some-

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times this involves little more than adding the word “organic” or “green” to a company’s name. To be clear, customers must inquire whether or not a particular cleaner uses PERC or one of the other harmful chemicals to determine if a greensounding name has merit. The good news is that more dry cleaners across the country are actually shifting to alternative cleaning methods that leave less impact on the environment. A new certification agency called the Green Cleaners Council (GCC) is helping to lend weight to a cleaner’s green claims.

Fresh Technologies One alternative to traditional drycleaning, known as CO2 cleaning, uses liquid carbon dioxide—the type used to carbonate soda—as its active solvent, mixed with dry cleaning detergent. During the cleaning process, the excess CO2 released is captured and reused. Even better, an Environmental Protection Agency-approved wet cleaning method uses water and “environmentally preferable detergents” to safely clean delicate clothes, and emits no air pollution, nor does it leave hazardous waste behind. The only negative environmental impact with this approach is the use of additional water. The EPA estimates that 10 percent of the industry has shifted to wet cleaning, a number that’s on the rise. Intriguingly, all cleaners have the capacity to wet clean at least some items using existing equipment, the agency reports, and some 3,000 establishments are likely offering some degree of wet cleaning (based on equipment sales). Ann Hargrove has the distinction of operating the first wet cleaning busi-

ness in the United States. Today, she is a member of the GCC, providing the environmental certification the industry has lacked. Much like other green standards groups, the council rates dry cleaners based on a long list of environmental attributes. After verifying claims, the council awards cleaners between one and five leaves, based on their green credibility. “The nice part about what we’re doing,” says Hargrove, “is that once cleaners fill out the form, we give them their ratings and give them an itemized list: ‘Here are some things you can do….’” She says no cleaner can earn a fiveleaf rating while using PERC, but adds that new equipment is expensive and smaller steps deserve recognition, too. The GCC website offers a state-by-state listing of its certified green cleaners—yet many states still have none listed. The EPA provides another, more comprehensive, greener cleaners guide, which lists CO2 cleaners and wet cleaners by state. A Florida-based company, Sudsies, exemplifies the kind of entrepreneurs who have taken up the green cleaning challenge. It has earned a four-leaf rating by offering wet cleaning and instituting a recycling program (Sudsies.com). “We use plastic hangers made from recycled plastic that can also be recycled,” says Sudsies CEO Jason Loeb. The company also has reduced paper and plastic bag use and prints its brochures on recycled paper. With the economy down, Loeb says it’s a tough time for the industry to take major green steps, so incremental ones may be the order of the day. He observes, “For now, most of those with the time and money to invest in eco-friendly practices limit their investment to the use of a particular dry cleaning solvent, rather than moving to evaluate all areas of their environmental impact.” The Green Cleaners Council’s mission to evaluate more cleaners should spark more widespread interest while helping customers to readily differentiate the green-in-name-only cleaners from those committed to cleaning clothes in a whole new way. It’s up to us to create demand. Brita Belli is the editor of E – The Environmental Magazine. natural awakenings

January 2011

greenliving

Fabulous Fireplace Keep Heating Dollars from Going Up in Smoke

crackling fire in the fireplace feels warm and cozy, but traditional wood-burning is a major energy waste. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a blazing hearth sends as much as 24,000 cubic feet of air per hour up the chimney, along with about 90 percent of the heat produced by the fire and some of the heat produced by the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s furnace. Fireplaces also generate a lot of air pollution. Wood smoke contains carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and fine particulates that can aggravate asthma, allergies and other health conditions. Several options are available for upgrading the family fireplace, both energy- and pollution-wise, without sacrificing coziness: n Wood stoves. Units certified by

the U.S. Environmental Protection

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Agency (EPA) generate only two to five grams of particulate matter per hour of operation, compared with 40 to 60 grams per hour from a conventional fireplace. Current units operate at 80 percent efficiencyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;similar to other home heating sources. They come as either a freestanding model or a unit that inserts into an existing fireplace; many come with blowers to direct heated air into the living space. n Pellet stoves. Instead of wood logs, these stoves burn small pellets made from compressed wood and other plant waste, and produce so little pollution that they do not require EPA certification. Pellet stoves do require electricity to feed pellets into the combustion chamber (about 100 kilowatthours per month under normal usage), so they will not work during a power outage, unless powered by a separate generator. Like wood stoves, pellet

More Cool Tips for Hearthside Heat low-emission alternatives to cordwood. Some logs even produce a natural crackling sound, without n Stay informed: The throwing sparks. Environmental ProTwo to investitection Agency (EPA) gate: Pine Mountain is a comprehensive Brands Java-Log source of information and advice on firelogs divert 12 million pounds of the cleaner-burning wood stoves and coffee grounds from landfills each fireplaces (epa.gov/woodstoves) and year and feature recycled packaging their efficient and safe operation (epa. (PineMountainBrands.com); Dugov/woodstoves/efficiently.html). raflame’s firelogs have a 30-year track record creating heat from renewable n Shop eco-friendly firelogs: A recent resources (Duraflame.com). EPA study comparing emissions from real logs and brand-name artificial n Follow instructions: For wood stoves logs found that the firelogs emitted and fireplace inserts, use only firelogs about 75 percent less carbon monmade from 100 percent compressed oxide, 80 percent fewer particulates sawdust (no wax). Wax and biomass and lower chemical emissions than logs are intended only for open hearth real wood. They also proved more ef- fireplaces. Never add an artificial log ficient, with a heat content of 12,620 to a natural wood fire that is already to 15,190 BTUs per pound, comburning, as it could flare up. Don’t pared to oak, which burns at around poke burning artificial logs because 8,300 BTUs per pound. they could flare up; this also keeps any Several companies manufacture flaming wax from clinging to the poker firelogs made of recycled biomass and then dripping onto the floor. products like wood sawdust, ground nutshells and coffee grounds. All are Source: Adapted from EPA.gov. Stay cozy—and green—by following these suggestions for wintertime warmth.

stoves are available as freestanding units or fireplace inserts.

improvement blows warm air back into the room, minus the smoke.

n Gas fireplace inserts. Natural gas

n Caulking air leaks. Provides a lowcost barrier to keep air from escaping from around the fireplace doors, flue and chimney.

or propane-fueled inserts offer the warmth and ambiance of a fire without the need to load wood or pellets or dispose of ash. Gas inserts are up to 80 percent efficient and generate low levels of pollution. Other options also exist for enhancing the operation of an existing fireplace and preventing excessive heat loss: n Tempered glass doors. Installation of airtight hearth doors enables the family to keep both the doors and flue shut when the fireplace is not in use. n Heat-air exchange system. This

n Lowering the thermostat. A good

rule of thumb is to keep the house between 50 and 55 degrees when the fireplace is in use, and shut doors leading into the room. n Cracking open a window near the fireplace. Creates a healthier experience by increasing fresh air flow and minimizing smoke inhalation.

Source: Adapted from Union of Concerned Scientists (ucsusa.org). natural awakenings

January 2011

Community Spotlight by Kim Racette

n her gentle way, Carol Hendershot says that there is really no excuse not to take time for yoga. “When I make time for yoga there is more time in my day,” she says with a smile. “My day just goes so much better.” With seven years of teaching and continuous learning, Hendershot and her certified instructors help others learn the gentle art of yoga at Expressions of Grace Yoga & Books overlooking beautiful Versluis Lake in Plainfield Township.

Before discovering her own path and beginning this journey, she was in the retail business world for many years, but a difficult period in her personal life forced her to make some hard decisions. “I spent time trying to figure it all out,” she says. “I had always been interested in Eastern Philosophy, and had practiced meditation for 35 years. That lead me from a trekking trip in Nepal to jumping out of airplanes-I was searching.” It was when Hendershot stumbled into a yoga class at a local studio here in Grand Rapids that she knew she had found it. “I fell in love with yoga,” she says. “I started going more and more, every chance I could get.” She began a series of training sessions, eventually reaching certification as a LifeForce Level 11 Yoga Practitioner. “I went to Massachusetts for a 200 hour sessionover a month’s time- at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health. After learning so many things I was so excited to get started,” she says. That began a period of time Hendershot likes to call “have mat will travel.” As a free-lance yoga instructor, she taught at various spas, medical organizations, and even in her own home. As her experience grew, she was introduced to Anusara Yoga, and once again began a series of training. “Anusara Yoga is amazing,” she explains. “It offers very refined biomechanical principles. It speaks to the alignment that supports the healthy movement of the body. Learning to sit, stand and hold correct posture can help people find optimal function.” Expressions of Grace Yoga has five instructors, all certified and inspired by the Anusara Yoga. All mats and props are provided, with the studio in a secluded room with plenty of space and light and quiet. “The quiet is helpful,” says Henderson. “The 15 to 20 students in each class need stillness to focus, and for a teacher it is wonderful to teach in this location.” Deep blue waters and surrounding grounds are home to an ever changing landscape, and nature abounds right outside the windows. “We’ve had woodchucks, eagles, wild geese, all taking advantage of the lake,” says Hendershot. “The changing of the seasons is spectacular

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

to watch, and adds to the yoga experience.” Expressions of Grace also offers various workshops and activities, and a program called Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction that is taught by Hendershot. “This is modeled after the Stress Reduction Program started by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979 at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and it has grown to become an international program used throughout the world,” she explains. Begun and developed as a way to catch those falling through the cracks in the medical system, it was designed to help people manage chronic pain.” It is an 8 week program that has expanded to encompass anyone who needs to learn to manage stress, as well as various illnesses and other medical conditions. “Mindfulness is an ancient mind-body discipline,” explains Hendershot. “It is a program that gives people the ability to take charge of their life-to help them cope with life better, and grow towards better health and well-being.” The New Year is a time for reflection, new purpose, direction and renewal. It is also a busy time of year for Expressions of Grace. “Starting yoga is such a positive, healthy step for those who need relief from different physical, and mental difficulties,” says Hendershot. “Many who come here have back, hip, and shoulder problems. Or, they are in chronic pain and they have been sent here by their doctor. People feel better after Yoga. We see and hear that everyday as our students finish their classes. That’s how we measure our success.” The first class is free for new students, and there are many different packages of classes from which to choose. Expressions of Grace also has an on site gift shop that sells products to support the yoga lifestyle. Mats, props, books, clothing, teas, jewelry, candles, and aroma therapy products are all available. “It is a lifestyle,” says Hendershot. In this frantic life we lead, it’s good to slow down, stretch, and breath. Yoga is a mind/body connection, and a heart-centered philosophy. It’s a positive step forward in life.” For more information About Expressions of Grace Yoga & Books call 616-361-8580 or visit the web site at www. expressionsofgraceyoga.com. The Studio is located at 5270 Northland Drive NE. Please call to register for classes, or for a complete schedule. See ad page 16 and 28.

wisewords

By Karen Adams

Film Celebrates

Looking back now, Cheryl Gould remembers being “called” by her intuition in 2005 to attend a women’s retreat, an event that introduced her to social activist Bonnie Kelley and changed both of their lives. You might say her heart led her there. Out of their friendship has grown the documentary The Heart To Lead, which celebrates the emergence of women’s “heartcentered leadership.” The film’s message is that the feminine approach to leadership, modeled on guiding and serving—rather than dominating—is something the world desperately needs right now. Included are interviews with women who share their world views; some of them are “icons” of the spirituality movement who were at that retreat. But many of them are not, and that is part of the point. The film also includes stories about women whose lives of service can leave them depleted if they are too isolated, and suggests that circles of support will help them, and will help the world as a whole. The film was just recently released, but women around the country, and the world, are embracing it. Calling “Our Big Selves” Speaking by phone from her home in La Jolla, California, with Kelley by her side, Gould describes how it all began. She had been at a California resort with her husband, Dwight, seeking some much-needed rest, and she was drawn to a conference on spirituality. “I hadn’t done anything spiritual for a while and I was missing it,” Gould recalls. She needed that more than rest. While wandering through the event, she picked up a card that announced an upcoming “evolutionary women’s retreat” in Santa Barbara. She was intrigued, and despite the demands of her busy advertising agency back home, eventually decided to go. She is eternally glad that she did, for that’s where she met Kelley. Gould had no way of knowing that her need for spiritual connection would bear such powerful fruit. But she and Kelley, and all the women in the film, now know that such yearnings are common among women around the world. The film, and the heart-centered leadership it celebrates, is meant to be accessible to anyone, because anyone, especially women, can do this work. “We’re just ordinary women who answered the call,” Gould says. “We became our ‘big selves.’” She and Kelley want other women to be able to do this, too, and to see how much of it they are doing already. Kelley adds, “Women turn to each other in times of crisis, and this is a time of crisis for our world.” The crises are numerous: war, natural disaster, rampant disease, poverty, starvation, pollution, and on and on. But, as Rev. Mary Omwake says about the unconditional maternal instinct: “The mother heart is not going to let half of the world starve.” We Need Each Other In the film, Inga Canfield, wife of Jack Canfield (author of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series), describes the loneliness and depression that can befall women who try to do too much by themselves. “It’s a silent killer, and it can feel hopeless,” she says. “We need support.” She offers a heartfelt plea for women to help each other. Rev. Dr. Kathy Hearn echoes Canfield’s observation. Many women today have “exhaustion depression,” she says, and lose strength from within because they are so busy taking care of others. She uses the analogy of a woman pouring tea for everyone except herself, until the pot is empty. “That’s when it starts to

“The Heart To Lead”

burn,” she says. “Women literally get burned out.” But the world needs our “bigger selves,” and it’s important, therefore, to reach out to connect with other women. Dr. Barbara Fields agrees. “There is this feeling of ‘I am not alone,’” she says, both in the sense of having support for the journey, and in the sense that we are responsible for others on this planet. When we do this for each other, Canfield adds, “it’s like turning on our own lights, one by one.” Heart Intelligence: Inherent and Inclusive Author and “conscious evolution” activist Barbara Marx Hubbard, with whom Kelley has worked for a decade, says in the film, “The heart is the center of our intelligence.” It’s a scientifically proven phenomenon, she says, that shows how our brain waves align with our hearts in coherence. Heart intelligence doesn’t “teach” people how to be, an approach that differs from some other movements. “It’s inherent wisdom; it doesn’t have to be taught,” says Kelley. “Women already know this way of being.” They just need to trust it. And, she adds, this is not “women over men”; men have these qualities, too, and they are welcome and needed. They also can benefit from demonstrating and receiving this kind of leadership. For women who share their lives with husbands, sons, fathers and brothers, it may be necessary to explain: “This is important to me right now, to help the world in my way.” What’s different about all of this, Kelley notes, is that it’s not threatening, it’s not political, it’s not exclusive. It’s inclusive. In the film, Hearn quotes His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who once said, “The world will be saved by the western woman.” “We need everybody’s talents, love and abilities to come forward,” Hearn says. Global Allies for the Greater Good There was a moment early in the project when Gould turned to Kelley and asked, “We’re talking global, right?” Her friend said yes. The global element rang out loud and clear when they were invited to show their film to the United Nations’ Commission on the Status of Women in New York in March. They were grateful, but they were anxious, too. “We thought we were making the film for western women,” Gould recalls, “and then here were these women from all over the world.” They watched nervously as the women filed in, one by one, among them a princess from Africa and a woman from Lebanon wearing a Muslim habit. Kelley and Gould wondered what they would think. They audience was quiet throughout. Near the end of the film, the Lebanese woman started moving her lips. Gould and Kelley realized she was murmuring “Thank you.” Afterward, the women all applauded loudly. The Lebanese woman, a 38-year-old pediatrician named Fatima, spoke up. “Now I know that American women have the same heart that I have,” she said. “I’m so happy to know that we’re so much alike, that we care about the same things.” Those things being families, children, the environment, an end to war. She said it gave her hope. “The subtitle of the film is ‘Women as Allies for the Greater Good,’” says Kelley. “It’s meant to be an invocation and a call to action.” For more information on The Heart To Lead DVD, accompanying guidebook, and more, please visit www.imaginethegood.com. Karen Adams is an editor for Natural Awakenings magazine. natural awakenings

January 2011

wisewords

hand, are based on joy, pleasure and freedom. In our research, we found that the more you change your lifestyle, the more you improve and the better you feel. The better you feel, the more likely you are to continue these changes. The Spectrum is not a diet; it’s an overall way of living. If you overindulge one day, you then eat healthier the next. Let’s say, for example, that you want to lower your cholesterol or get your diabetes under control. You begin by making moderate changes that you choose. There’s no pushback because you set the pace. We’ll help track your progress, and if the changes are enough to accomplish your goals, great; and if not, then you can do more.

THE JOY OF HEALTH A conversation with Dr. Dean Ornish on lifestyle changes that foster well-being

Who seems to benefit most from this approach, and to what degree?

by April Thompson

or more than 30 years, renowned medical doctor Dean Ornish has led pioneering clinical research proving that making simple changes in the way we eat and live can radically transform our health. He directed the first randomized, controlled trials demonstrating that lifestyle changes may halt or reverse the progression of even severe coronary heart disease, as well as early-stage prostate cancer. In collaboration with Nobel Laureate Elizabeth Blackburn, Ph.D., Ornish also showed that healthy lifestyle changes can increase telomerase, and thus lengthen telomeres, the ends of chromosomes that control how long we live. Ornish is the founder and president of the nonprofit Preventive Medicine Research Institute in Sausalito, California, and a clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. He is the author of six bestselling books, including Eat More, Weigh Less and most recently, The Spectrum.

What sparked your interest in preventive medicine? I got interested in doing this work when I was learning how to do bypass surgery 24

West Michigan Edition

as a medical student. We’d cut people open, bypass their blocked arteries and tell them they were cured; then they‘d go home and continue to do the same things that caused the problem in the first place—smoke, overeat, drink too much, work too hard and so on. More often than not, their bypasses would get clogged up again, and we’d cut them open again and bypass the bypass, sometimes multiple times. That became a metaphor for an incomplete approach for me. Sometimes you need to use drugs and surgery in a crisis, but ultimately, you must address the underlying cause.

What is the concept behind The Spectrum and how does it differ from other lifestyle programs? The problem with most lifestyle-oriented health programs is that they are restrictive, all-or-nothing, fear-based approaches. If you go on a diet or exercise program, sooner or later you’re going to go off of it. Then people feel like they’ve failed; it makes it hard to maintain Sustainable changes, on the other

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One of our most interesting research findings was that the primary determinant of improvement wasn’t how old or sick people were, it was how much they’d changed their diet and lifestyle. The body has a remarkable capacity to heal itself if we simply stop doing what’s causing the problem. We’ve seen hundreds of thousands of patients slow or reverse the progress of life-threatening diseases when they make good changes. Such lifestyle changes can work not only as well as drugs and surgery, but oftentimes better, and at a fraction of the cost. Plus, the side effects are all good ones. When you begin to make improvements in diet and lifestyle, your brain gets more blood, so you think more clearly and need less sleep. Your brain can grow so many new brain cells that it can get measurably bigger in just three months. Your face gets more blood so you don’t wrinkle as fast. Even your sexual organs get more blood flow, similar to the way Viagra works... and so on. That really motivates people to continue. We even found that when you make these positive lifestyle changes, your genes begin to change. We found alterations in more than 500 genes within the first three months—turning on or up-regulating the disease-preventing genes, and turning off or down-regulating the genes that promote disease.

You stress the importance of individual lifestyle changes, but what about changing our sick health care system? We do need to look at the politics of health care and hold our leaders responsible for some of the decisions that have created the mess weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in. For example, after 16 years of lobbying, working with Medicare and members of Congress, we learned a few months ago that Medicare is finally covering our program for reversing heart disease. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game changing. If Medicare covers it, all the other insurance companies will follow their lead, and we can make these sorts of programs available to people who most need them, rather than just those who can afford it. If we change reimbursement, we change not only medical practice, but also medical education. Otherwise, I could do a thousand studies with a million patients and it would always remain on the fringes of medical practice. For more information visit pmri.org or OrnishSpectrum.com. April Thompson is a freelance writer based in Washington, D.C. See April Writes.com

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natural awakenings

January 2011

Five Steps to

Better Health How integrative medicine can make health care simpler, more effective and more affordable. by Marco Visscher, Ursula Sautter and Carmel Wroth

Suffering from headaches and depression? Don’t let a doctor put you on drugs; instead, look for the underlying causes. High cholesterol? Try the Mediterranean diet, with a glass of organic red wine a day. The best way to win the war on cancer? Eat healthy, exercise and develop insurance company, at the center of attention, and it puts the an active social life. An increasing number focus on the sources of illness and not the symptoms. Health care costs are continually rising, but people are of physicians are realizing that this type not getting any healthier. Here is a five-point prescription for of approach, geared to prevention and a the future of health care that applies the tenets of integrative medicine to make today’s health care simpler, more effective conservative use of medications and technology, and more affordable. not only increases patients’ vitality, but saves 1. Emphasize Illness Prevention lots of money.

n the words of Dr. Dean Ornish, founder and chairman of the Preventive Medicine Research Institute, in Sausalito, California, “It is time to change not only who is covered, but also what is covered.” There is an overemphasis, he says, on treating symptoms and on the idea that caring for our health is primarily the responsibility of medical experts, rather than of individuals themselves. Zhaoming Chen, a neurologist and chairman of the American Association of Integrative Medicine, describes the way things currently work. “We only treat the disease after it occurs.” With figures showing that 95 cents out of every dollar spent on health care goes toward treating illness, he notes that “The best way to reduce the costs is prevention.” Integrative medicine puts the patient, not the doctor or the 26

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About half of all American adults have a chronic illness, according to the Partnership for Solutions, a John Hopkins University-led initiative to improve care for Americans with chronic health conditions. Ornish claims that three-quarters of the more than $2 trillion recently spent on health care in a single year went to treat these kinds of conditions, including obesity. “All of these can be not only prevented, but even reversed through diet and lifestyle intervention,” he says. “It just seems so obvious to me that this is where we should be putting our focus.” There is a long way to go before prevention is on the national agenda. While prevention is indeed better than cure, we tend to reward those who find solutions for existing problems rather than those who ensure that those problems don’t occur. “Prevention is boring,” says Ornish. Rather, “We need to focus on living better.”

2. Promote Healthy Foods

thy, yoga and herbal medicine that can supplement and even replace conventional methods. Such complementary treatments work to nourish, nurture and augment the body’s own defenses. One alternative healing method that’s now beginning to find its way into hospitals is acupuncture, which has been shown, among other benefits, to help relieve pain, stress and nausea during pre- and post-operative care. Beth Israel’s Department of Integrative Medicine is bringing acupuncture into the hospital free of charge as part of a fellowship program for Chinese medicine practitioners. “The future of acupuncture is to be a part of best practices in the conventional setting,” says Arya Nielsen, a nationally board-certified acupuncture specialist who leads the Another way to reduce 3. Focus on Lifestyle Changes program. “The research is just too good.” The majority of health problems and costs is to use alterna The goal is to train both acupuncrisk factors for illnesses stem from the tive and complementary turists and conventional doctors in the choices we make: how much time we benefits of this technique so that it can therapies such as homeinvest working, exercising and relaxing; be incorporated into Beth Israel’s best time spent with friends and outdoors; opathy, naturopathy, yoga practices. “Even if physicians have time to and whether we consistently take the and herbal medicine that read the acupuncture studies, what really stairs or the elevator. makes it gel is when they see the results can supplement and even The Sanoviv Medical Institute, in on the patient they treat,” says Nielsen. Rosarito, Mexico, is located on a beautireplace conventional meth- “The proof is in practitioners working ful stretch of the Pacific coast, an hour ods. Such complementary side-by-side and people being able to south of San Diego. The recommended experience what this therapy can do.” treatments work to nourstay for most patients is two weeks. Chen points out that chemotherapy, While there, they learn about and exish, nurture and augment surgery and radiation dramatically perience a lifestyle based around stress the body’s own defenses. change a patient’s life, and people need reduction, emotional well-being, healthy strong support from family and friends eating and exercise. Many patients to adapt to these changes. Chen believes come in with cancer or multiple sclerosis; others come just that treating cancer should involve both conventional and alto detoxify and clear out the accumulated effects of stress. ternative medicine. “Patients also need some lifestyle changThe program includes dietary changes, supplements, daily es: smoking cessation, minimizing alcohol intake, adopting a exercise and a stress management plan supported by psycholow-fat, high-fiber diet. Besides that, because [conventional] logical counseling and daily meditation. treatment may cause nausea and pain, patients may benefit A 2004 study in The Lancet showed that lifestyle from acupuncture, meditation, yoga and Tai chi. This will changes—quitting smoking, healthier eating habits, moderhelp them cope with pain better.” ate alcohol consumption and regular exercise—can prevent Roberta Lee, a pioneer of integrative health care and primary care physician at the Beth Israel Medical Center Department of Integrative Medicine, in New York City, believes the first prescription any doctor should write should be about diet and lifestyle. “You can never lose by maximizing lifestyle management,” says Lee, pointing out that many conditions not easily diagnosed or cured in a conventional framework can be improved by dietary and lifestyle changes. “There are specific diets that promote wellness,” she says. “They reduce inflammation, [and] increase fiber, vitamins and minerals that come in the form of a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.”

90 percent of today’s cases of heart disease, which currently accounts for more premature deaths and higher health care costs than any other illness, according to Ornish. “When lifestyle is offered as a treatment, it’s as effective and often more effective than what we’re now doing, at a fraction of the cost,” says Ornish. “We pay for all these interventions that are dangerous, invasive, expensive and largely ineffective, and yet interventions that have been scientifically proven to reverse disease, are a simple change of lifestyle.”

4. Use Alternative Therapies

Another way to reduce costs is to use alternative and complementary therapies such as homeopathy, naturopa-

5. Treat People, Not Diseases

As Nurse Béatrice Fleury pours a steaming infusion of yarrow over a piece of cotton and then wrings it out, the aroma of the medicinal herb wafts over to the hospital bed where Eliane Perrot is waiting for her body wrap. When the compress and a hot water bottle have been gingerly applied to her lower back and secured by a soft cloth sash, she leans back with a contented sigh. The compress will help her liver better metabolize the toxins that have accumulated in it after months of breast cancer therapy. The wrap’s warmth will also create a sense of temporary well-being, a precious feeling for the frail, exhausted, 65-year-old. natural awakenings

January 2011

School of Business and the former CEO Alternative treatments like the yarrow wrap are the order of the day at the of AARP. Paracelsus Spital, in the Swiss town of Kenneth R. Pelletier, clinical profesRichterswil, outside of Zurich. Founded sor of medicine at the University of in 1994, the clinic is one of a handful of Arizona School of Medicine and the hospitals in Europe devoted to compleUniversity of California School of Medimentary healing. In addition to orthodox cine, has been putting numbers behind treatments and drugs, the conventionally the arguments for integrative health. Pelschooled doctors here also use therapies letier has studied the cost-effectiveness and medications based on the holistic of corporate programs to promote health approach to medicine inspired by the and manage disease among employees. anthroposophy of Waldorf education The programs encompassed everything founder Rudolf Steiner. from subsidized gym memberships and “If you want to understand a persmoking cessation classes to biometric son’s disease and support his self-healscreening and serving smaller portions ing powers, it’s of central importance to in company cafeterias. Pelletier found “What we now have is not look at the human being as a whole— that companies with such programs in a health care system; it’s a body, spirit and soul,” says Paracelsus place realized healthier, more producMedical Director Erich Skala. “This may tive workforces, fewer sick days and less medical delivery system.” require more time and effort, but it’s staff turnover. how you treat the causes, and not just He estimates that it takes, on averthe symptoms.” age, just over three years before firms Dr. Daniel Dunphy, Dr. Daniel Dunphy, of the San see a financial return on this kind of San Francisco Preventive Francisco Preventive Medical Group, investment. “These reviews clearly indiMedical Group believes the Paracelsus approach is what cate that comprehensive interventions the United States needs. “You have to do evidence both clinical- and costtake time to get to know the patients effectiveness,” says Pelletier. “There’s and listen to their stories,” he counsels. “I want to know their a very good payback. It makes us think about health as an personal history, their traumas, how they do at work, what investment.” they eat and at what times of the day—and then I know what More money, more pills and more technology don’t to do about their problem.” necessarily lead to better health. Advocates of integrative medicine generally take a “less is more” approach—less needless medications and medical procedures and more preThe Bottom Line vention and healthy personal lifestyle changes can add up to Of course, the bottom line in the debate about health big financial savings and big improvements in an individual’s care is cost. Proponents of integrative health argue that the quality of life. promotion of preventive steps such as eating healthy food and making positive lifestyle changes, as well as using complementary methods to treat the whole person and not just the disease, will result in “… the biggest return on investment this nation could ever have,” in the words of William Novelli, a professor at Georgetown University’s McDonough

Marco Visscher is the managing editor of Ode, Ursula Sautter and Carmel Wroth are contributors. Adapted from an article that first appeared in Ode, the magazine about positive change.

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consciouseating

health practitioner for possible herbdrug interactions. Turmeric Turmeric (Curcuma longa), the yellow spice commonly used in Indian curries, is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties and for suppressing pain without harmful side effects. Its main therapeutic ingredient is curcumin. Research from institutions such as the University of California, San Diego, and Cornell University indicate that curcumin appears to be a safe, natural alternative to COX-2 inhibitor drugs.

FOODS THAT

FIGHT PAIN A TASTY, COLORFUL BANQUET by Michelle Schoffro Cook

hile many foods taste great, they can also be powerful healers, naturally packaged in vibrant, multicolored disguises. Plus, these foods won’t cause the nasty, common side effects that often accompany the use of drugs. Here are some fabulous-tasting favorites that can yield extra benefits. Cherries Muraleedharan Nair, Ph.D., professor of natural products and chemistry at Michigan State University, found that tart cherry extract is 10 times more effective than aspirin at relieving inflammation. Only two tablespoons of the concentrated juice need to be taken daily for effective results. Sweet cherries have also been found to be effective. Other Berries Nair later found the same anti-pain compound in other berries, specifically

blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and strawberries. Celery and Celery Seeds James Duke, Ph.D., author of The Green Pharmacy, found more than 20 anti-inflammatory compounds in celery and celery seeds, including a powerful flavonoid called apigenin. Add celery seeds to soups, stews or as a salt substitute in many recipes. Ginger Ginger reduces levels of pain-causing prostaglandin in the body and has been widely used in India to treat pain and inflammation. A study by Indian researchers found that when people who were suffering from muscular pain were given ginger, they all experienced improvement. New research from the University of Georgia supports these findings. If you’re taking medications, check with your

Fatty Fish Many fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and herring contain omega-3 fatty acids that convert in the body into hormonelike substances that decrease inflammation and pain. According to research reports from arthritis specialists associated with the National Institutes of Health, omega-3 is an effective antiinflammatory agent; ingesting fish oil acts directly on the immune system by suppressing 40 to 55 percent of the release of cytokines, compounds known to destroy joints. Many other studies similarly demonstrate that eating moderate amounts of fish or taking fish oil supplements reduces pain and inflammation, particularly for arthritis sufferers. Flax Seeds and Flax Oil Freshly ground flax seeds and coldpressed flax oil contain plentiful amounts of the omega-3 essential fatty acids. Do not cook with flax oil, however, as it then can have the opposite effect of irritating the body’s tissues and causing pain. Raw Walnuts and Walnut Oil Raw walnuts and walnut oil also contain powerful omega-3 fatty acids that fight pain and inflammation in the body. When it comes to relieving pain, food really can be the best medicine. Michelle Schoffro Cook is a registered nutrition consulting practitioner and doctor of natural medicine. Her latest book is The Phytozyme Cure. Learn more at DrMichelleCook.com/ HealthSmartNews.

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January 2011

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January 2011

Aid to Conventional Treatment

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HONORING OUR

LIFE FORCE ENERGY MEDICINE HELPS RESTORE BALANCE AND HARMONY by Linda Sechrist

n William James’ famous hypothesis, “A new idea is first condemned as ridiculous, and then dismissed as trivial, until finally, it becomes what everybody knows.” In the field of energy medicine, the experiences of pioneers such as medical intuitives Caroline Myss and Donna Eden, natural healer Dr. Carolle Jean-Murat and Doctor of Chiropractic Eric Pearl validate James’ postulate. Initially disregarded by allopathic medicine, the energy medicine these healers practice operates on the belief that changes in the “life force” of the body can affect human health and healing. They maintain that applying this

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energetic perspective allows them to clinically assess and treat what they refer to as the body’s electromagnetic fields, in order to achieve a healthy balance in the body’s overall energy system. The modality has to do with energy pathways, or meridians, that run through our organs and muscles. The idea is to uncover the root causes of imbalances and harmonize them at an energetic level before they completely solidify in the physical body and manifest as an illness. Such imbalances may be brought on by, for example, such things as emotional stress and physical trauma.

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As recently as 1990, the idea of using any form of energy medicine, such as acupuncture, Reiki, Touch for Health or the services of a medical intuitive in a hospital setting would have been considered preposterous. Today, however, more medical institutions are combining these types of treatment with traditional allopathic medicine. For example, Children’s Memorial Hospital, in Chicago, a research-oriented emblem of Western medicine, now employs a Healing Touch therapist. The hospital, which perennially ranks among America’s premier hospitals, is the principal pediatric teaching hospital for Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Mehmet Oz, a leading U.S. cardiovascular surgeon, was the first to include a Reiki practitioner in his department at Columbia University Medical Center, in New York City. The New York Times reports that Oz allows the use of Reiki during open-heart surgeries and heart transplant operations.

More Insight Medical intuitives say they can recognize problems in the flow of the body’s energies and are able to accurately predict the kinds of physical problems that are likely to emerge before any symptoms are detected. Eden, who has had a lifelong ability to make health assessments that are confirmed by medical tests, can look at an individual’s body and see and feel where the energies are not flowing, out of balance or not in harmony, then works to correct the problem. “I was 22 before I discovered that everyone didn’t make their decisions after first seeing and sensing energy,” says Eden. Carolle Jean-Murat, a California licensed obstetrician and gynecologist who now practices as a medical intuitive and healer, left her 30-year allopathic practice to focus on natural healing. Today, the native of Haiti specializes in helping women restore their mental, physical and spiritual health. “I am a healer who has the capacity to

see, feel and hear whatever a client is going through, because I see them as a whole: energy, body, mind, soul and emotions,” says Jean-Murat. Dr. Eric Pearl, author of The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself, demystifies the healing process. He teaches others (75,000 and counting) how to activate and use what he refers to as an all-inclusive spectrum of healing frequencies. “Reconnection teaches people how to transcend the ego and its judgment, and reach a state of nonjudgment observation,” explains Pearl. “Many of them describe their experience simply as an internal activation of an advanced level of consciousness, in which awareness allows the perception of a multi-dimensional universe.” Pearl posits that as part of our growth as human beings, “We not only discover that we have become more, we understand that we can’t stand in fear, lack and limitation, and we can only offer ourselves as a vessel for healing for ourselves and others when we reside in oneness and love.” Pearl believes that it is part of everyone’s life journey to discover that they are an empty vessel, born to be filled with Spirit. By letting go of beliefs that block our ability to deeply understand this, we can harmonically converge with the lives of others at the level where we are all energy, as physics indicates. These practitioners agree that, while we all have some subtle sense of an animating force within us that is pure energy, we often ignore it. We go about our daily lives using this life force to perform our activities until it becomes depleted and illness manifests in a physical or emotional imbalance. While professional energy medicine practitioners are specifically trained to sense and honor the body’s animating life force and recognize its excesses and deficiencies, they also believe that we can all learn how to work with this important facet of our being. It is our birthright to realize balance and harmony, and we can do this by learning to re-establish a healthy flow of communication within the body’s subtle energy system. Linda Sechrist is a Natural Awakenings editor and freelance writer. natural awakenings

January 2011

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Community Spotlight

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Holistic Care Approach

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ucked away off the East Beltline in northern Grand Rapids, Holistic Care Approach, an integrated wellness facility, has been growing steadily in the consciousness of the West Michigan public over the past decade. Owner Barb Meconis, a nurse for over 40 years, says that the philosophy of Holistic Care Approach is to be integrative versus alternative. Meconis says that holistic medicine and Holistic Care Approach are increasingly growing in the community. While not everyone embraces the natural medicine world, she has found that people usually follow the same arc when it comes to natural healing, which is skepticism, then curiosity and finally a sense of knowing. As awareness grows, so has her business. “People are on a journey, seeking to understand what natural medicine is. To that end, this past year, we’ve done a large renovation and addition,” said Meconis. “This speaks to the fact that natural medicine has a place in our community. Holistic medicine is here to stay; people are looking for it. It’s going to continue to grow.” Meconis says that the approach of holistic medicine is to offer options that allow the body to heal itself. “The body knows how to heal. What we do here at Holistic Care Approach is to offer services that allow the body to return to balance and to boost the immune system,” said Meconis. “We do this by focusing on mind, body, spirit and emotional aspects.” In addition to acupuncture, massage, Reiki, ear candling, infrared sauna, colon

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hydrotherapy, and many other services, Holistic Care Approach also has a medical doctor on staff. Medical Director, Laura Tinning, DO, is currently on staff at Metropolitan Hospital and also has a private practice at Holistic Care Approach. She helps oversee clinical decision-making for the clinic, prescribes medications, orders lab work and many other traditional Western medicine-based activities. While working with her patients, Tinning draws upon natural medicine. She spends an average of an hour with each patient, can use supplements instead of prescriptions, and oversees IV infusions, among many other things. This type of patient experience can make a big difference in the treatment of many serious and oftentimes preventable diseases now frequently occurring in our population. “We’re starting to see obesity and chronic disease in a younger population,” said Meconis. “We have to think about what is happening to our immune systems, our stress load, our water and food supply. What in our environment is causing us to have weakened immune systems?” Meconis says that childhood obesity is rising and kids are getting the diseases of the elderly, like diabetes and high cholesterol. It is predicted children born after 2000 will have a shorter life expectancy than their parents. “The conditions we call chronic disease have developed over time,” said Meconis. “So treatment requires patience and or people to be in tune with their bodies.”

Recently, Holistic Care Approach has introduced the HCG Weight Loss Program at the clinic. Human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, is a protein hormone that maintains pregnancy during the early development of the embryo. In weight loss, HCG mobilizes fat to the bloodstream. By implementing self-administered low-dose injections daily, the mobilized fat is used for energy, therefore resulting in permanent weight loss. “We researched this program for a while, tweaked it to our philosophies and rolled it out in the summer of 2010,” said Meconis. Dr. Chad Kotlarz ND, who is on staff at Holistic Care Approach, administers the program, which can be done for three or six weeks, depending on the amount of weight the client and doctor determine is a safe amount to lose. Clients are screened and carefully chosen, as one needs to be healthy enough to do it. The program is targeted to those people looking to lose anywhere between 20 and 50 pounds, and it is not for the morbidly obese. As part of the program, the client needs to follow a prescriptive diet of 500 calories per day. Because the body is using the mobilized fat cells for its energy needs, it only requires a small amount of food to function. “This program is very safe,” said Meconis. “It does not result in muscle wasting. The average weight loss is between .6 and .9 pounds per day and it takes inches off the waist and hips.” Patients are seen weekly and follow-up is done with a nurse for waist and hip measurements and BMI. After the three or six week program, patients are given a maintenance diet to follow. If this is done properly, the weight loss is permanent. Irene Jones, 55, began the program in September after battling with the belly bulge for many years. “I could lose weight on any diet, but I still had a bulge in my

stomach,” Jones said. “I wanted to try the HCG diet because I had heard that it actually reshapes your body.” After being on the three-week program, she lost 14 pounds. “I was never hungry,” said Jones. “In fact, I felt the best I have felt in years while taking the shot. I haven’t had heartburn since I began the program and my cholesterol went down.” In addition to the immediate weight loss, Jones also learned more about food and how she eats. “I know what I’m supposed to eat, and it’s made me more aware of what I put into my body,” said Jones. She recommends enlisting the support of family and friends on this particular weight loss journey. “My husband was so supportive throughout the entire program. What I ate, he ate,” she said. “I’ve also had a couple of friends go through the program as well. It helps to have a buddy to see you through it.” For those worried about the low-calorie approach, Meconis said that the calories consumed on this program are nutritionally dense. “These are life-sustaining calories and chosen with a specific purpose,” she said. In addition, the HCG itself protects the body from becoming hungry.” The cost of the three-week program is $400 and the six-week program is $650. This includes all office visits, plus the cost of the injections. For more information contact Barb Meconis at Holistic Care Approach, 3368 E Beltline CT NE, Grand Rapids. 616-3619221. See ad page 30 A married mother of two young children, Julie Hurley is a freelance writer with a strong interest in natural living and is the Director of Public Relations at Principia Media. Visit her personal blog at: ourlunch.blogspot.com.

natural awakenings

January 2011

2011

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EDITORIAL CALENDAR

January

Exercise

Now!

Health and Wellness

Stick-With-It Tips Keep Your New Year’s Resolution Going

February Balance March April

Natural Foods Green Homes & Gardens

May

Women’s Wellness

June

Men’s Wellness

July

Living Simply

August

Vibrant Children

September Creativity October

Green Living, Blue Planet

November Local & Personal Economy December Uplifting Humanity

West Michigan Edition

by Gretchen Rubin xercise is a key to happiness, as well as fitness, according to mounting research. Newsweek reports that people who exercise are healthier, more energetic, think more clearly, sleep better and have delayed onset of dementia. Studies by the Karolinska Institute, in Sweden, and California State University are among those that further show why exercise leads to relief from anxiety and mild depression. Researchers at Leeds Metropolitan University have also demonstrated that people who exercise perform better at work. More, although it’s tempting to flop down on the couch when you’re feeling exhausted, exercise is actually a great way to boost energy levels, a conclusion supported by a metastudy conducted by the University of Georgia. They concluded that feeling fatigued is a reason to exercise, not a reason to skip exercise. But even when you admit that you’d feel better if you exercised, it can

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be hard to adopt the habit. My idea of fun, for example, has always been to lie in bed reading, preferably while also eating a snack—but I’ve managed to keep myself exercising over the years by using these tricks on myself:

1 2

Always exercise on Monday. This sets the psychological pattern for the week.

If at all possible, exercise first thing in the morning. As the day wears on, you’ll find more excuses to skip exercising. Get it checked off your list, first thing. It’s also a nice way to start the day; even if other things don’t get done, you’ve accomplished that.

Never skip exercising for two days in a row. You can skip a day, but you must exercise on the next day, even if it seems to be inconvenient at that time.

Give yourself credit for the smallest effort. One man I know said

that all he had to do was put on his running shoes and close the door behind him to get going. Many times, by promising myself I could quit 10 minutes after I’d started, I got myself to start—and then found that I didn’t want to quit, after all.

Think about context. Examine the factors that might be discouraging you from exercising. Perhaps you are distressed about the grubby showers in your gym or recoil from running if it’s cold outside. Try alternatives.

Exercise several times a week. If your idea of exercise is to join games of pick-up basketball, you should be playing practically every day. Twice a month isn’t enough.

Find a way to exercise that doesn’t always require you to shower afterward. Each week, I really get into a challenging weight-training session, but it’s in a format that doesn’t make me sweat.

Look for affordable ways to make exercising more pleasant or satisfying. Could you upgrade to a nicer

or more convenient gym, buy yourself a new iPod or pedometer, or work with a trainer? Exercise is a high life priority, so these are worthwhile ways to spend some money if they help get you moving.

Think of exercise as part of your essential preparation. It readies you for times when you want to be in especially fine form—whether in performance (to be sharp for an important presentation), appearance (to look good for a wedding or another formal occasion) or mood (to deal with a stressful situation).

Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Don’t decide it’s only worth exercising if you can run five miles or if you can bike for an hour. A woman I know scorns exercise unless she’s training for a marathon—so she never exercises. Even going for a 10-minute walk is worthwhile. Do what you can.

Suit up. Even if you’re not sure you’re going to exercise, go ahead and put on your exercise clothes. Pack your bag. Put the dog’s leash by

the door. Get prepared. If you’re ready to go, you might find it easier just to go ahead and exercise. Sometimes a trivial thing, like not knowing where your shoes are, gets in the way.

Don’t kid yourself. Paying for a gym membership doesn’t mean you necessarily go to the gym. Having been in shape in high school or college doesn’t mean you’re in shape now. Saying that you don’t have time to exercise doesn’t make it true. People often ask me, “So, if I want to be happier, what should I be doing?” and I always say, “The first thing to do is to make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep and some exercise.” It’s a stance backed up by research psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, author of The How of Happiness. Good exercise is a good place to start, and makes it easier to act on other personal happiness-inducing resolutions. Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project, blogs daily at HappinessProject.com.

natural awakenings

January 2011

healthykids

RAISING HEALTHY EATERS How to Train Children’s Palates from the Cradle On

by Jeannette Bessinger and Tracee Yablon Brenner

after problems have taken hold. Parents can begin cultivating healthy eating habits in their children right from the cradle. childhood obesity that is creating a health Establishing a few key parental practices can have long-ranging benefits for the family. crisis for our kids. The first tip is to keep a neutral attitude about food, even if it’s counterintuitive. When introducing solids to a child, it is helpful to present the foods in a relaxed, neutral way, with ccording to the Nestlé Nutrition Institute’s often no pressure to eat them. As the youngster grows, avoid labelreferenced Feeding Infant and Toddler Study (FITS), ing certain foods as good, bad or even healthy to sidestep the many U.S. children are eating a poor quality diet too response, “This is good for me? I don’t like it!” high in calories and too low in nutrition. About one in three Parents do well to remain patient. It can take up to 15 older babies and toddlers are not eating a single vegetable presentations before a child is willing to try something new, on a given day, and eating habits don’t improve as children and then several tastings before they decide they like it. get older. It also helps to offer a variety of fla Today’s typical American diet is clearly vors from a very young age to familiarize “The first three years not working. According to a benchmark children with many dimensions of tastes of a child’s life are a and textures. Though babies initially prefer National Cancer Institute study, only 1 percent of all children between the ages of tastes above all others, as youngsters window of opportuni- sweet 2 and 19 years met all requirements of the grow, their preferences tend toward what is U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Guide ty for forming lifelong, familiar. When introduced early on to varipyramid. Sixteen percent of the children ety and consistently offered healthy whole healthy eating habits.” foods, including all the veggies, these come met none of the pyramid recommendations. In 2010, the American Dietetic Association to comprise their preferred diet. Dr. William Sears, author, (ADA) reported that upwards of 23 milprofessor of pediatrics at the lion U.S. children and adolescents are now Continuing Practices University of California-Irvine overweight or obese and currently at risk School of Medicine and found- It’s always wise to offer food to children for other health problems associated with only when they are actually hungry. When er of AskDrSears.com obesity. That’s nearly one in three children. kids eat a continuous flow of simple carbohydrates, such as white crackers and sweetened cereals Early Training or even 100 percent juices, it keeps their blood sugar levels Nationwide efforts to address these health issues have demslightly elevated, which can create problems. onstrated that early prevention is easier than intervention Nutritionists see firsthand how such a diet prevents the

America is in the midst of an epidemic of

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true hunger signal from turning on fully, which in turn can cause little ones to act finicky about certain foods, especially vegetables. It can also prompt them to eat less of more nutritionally balanced foods on their plate at mealtimes. In children who have any type of blood sugar sensitivity, the more sweet foods they eat, the more they will tend to want. If a parent wants to offer a sweet snack, include some additional fiber, protein or healthy fat to balance it, because these nutrients act as a time-release mechanism for sugars and will help to regulate a more natural appetite rhythm. According to the ADA’s Pediatric Manual of Clinical Dietetics, vegetarian children tend to be leaner than their non-vegetarian peers; it doesn’t mean that simply eliminating meat is a recipe for obesity prevention. According to the ADA, a varied and appropriately planned vegetarian diet can meet all of a growing baby and toddler’s nutritional needs. But it is even more crucial to keep the blood sugar levels balanced in vegetarian toddlers, because they aren’t receiving proteins from animal sources. On the plus side, young vegetarians are more likely to eat a broader range of fiber and micronutrient-rich fruits, veggies and beans. To encourage reluctant youngsters to eat more vegetables, try roasting them, especially green produce and root veggies. Also serve a new vegetable in a way similar to one that they already like; e.g., baking homemade sweet potato fries cut in familiar shapes. Kid-size veggies like mini-broccoli trees or baby carrots have appeal. Dressing up plain veggies with dips and shakers of a mild herb, spice, Parmesan cheese, ground seeds or wheat germ adds to the fun. Finally, encourage toddlers to help out in the kitchen by asking them to wash and sort the veggies or arrange them in a pretty way on the platter. If children are involved in preparing foods, they are more likely to eat them.

Mary a. delange C.C.T. C.M.T. Colon HydroTHerapy Some Benefits of Colon Therapy are: • Remove toxic waste from ones body • Eradicate constipation • Removes stomach bloat • Increases ones energy also offering Therapeutic Massage P: 616.456.5033 E: mary@harmonynhealth.net www.harmonynhealth.net

Now Open

www.FacilityKitchens.com • 616-304-8334

“Grow Your Food Business With Us!”

Jeannette Lee Bessinger, an award-winning lifestyle and nutrition educator, and Tracee Yablon Brenner, a registered dietitian, founded RealFoodMoms.com. These certified health counselors have co-authored two practical guides for families: Great Expectations: Best Food for Your Baby and Toddler and Simple Food for Busy Families.

Protective Food Practices n

80 percent rule: Don’t worry too much about what your child is eating outside the home. If s/he is eating a varied diet of high quality whole foods at home 80 percent of the time, everyone’s on the right track.

Make the connection: Help a child understand the relationship between our food supply and the natural world. Visit an organic farm or help young ones start a garden.

The pristine pantry: Put the child in charge of what foods they actually eat at a meal while parents stay in charge of the foods available. Keep unhealthy foods out of the house.

natural awakenings

January 2011

Healthy Eating at Every Age by Jeannette Lee Bessinger and Tracee Yablon Brenner

Best Solid Foods at 6 to 9 Months

Best Foods at 9 to 12 Months

n Cooked and puréed vegetables such as carrots, green beans, green peas, pumpkin, spinach, zucchini and summer and winter squash

n Add new cooked and puréed vegetables such as beets, broccoli, cauliflower, kale and eggplant

n Cooked and puréed fruits such as applesauce, apricots, peaches, pears, prunes and raisins n Raw and mashed fruits such as avocados, bananas, melons and papayas n Soft-cooked whole grains such as iron-fortified brown rice cereal, oats and pearled barley n Protein foods such as plain full-fat yogurt or small amounts of tahini (sesame seed butter—always thin and mix seed butters with other foods to prevent choking) Note: At 6 to 7 months, choose one per day; 8 to 9 months, choose two per day, including cooked and puréed lentils and split peas and, if not allergic, egg yolk, hard cooked and mashed, or cooked into hot cereal, not more than three times a week, as well as medium, soft or silken plain tofu mashed (1 to 2 tablespoons), also not more than three times a week. Tip: When introducing a baby to new foods, include as many vegetables as fruits to help train tiny taste buds to enjoy the bitter, sour and astringent flavors, as well as the sweet ones.

classifieds

n Add new raw and mashed fruits such as kiwi and mango n Add soft-cooked whole grains such as amaranth, millet and quinoa n Include cooked and minced whole grain pastas such as brown rice, quinoa and spelt n Add more proteins, such as ground, hormone-free beef, lamb, chicken and turkey; introduce with caution in case of allergies: mild, soft cheeses (not raw) such as cottage, ricotta, cheddar and provolone; beans such as cannellini, navy, great northern (add a small amount of kombu or epazote to cooking water to increase digestibility of beans) Tip: Baby’s pincer grip develops between 9 and 12 months, so retain small, soft pieces of food in their purées to pick out with small fingers.

n Include milk and whole eggs n Add healthy fats such as small amounts of butter, ghee, coconut oil, chopped olives and coconut milk Tip: At this age youngsters feel a new adventurousness about foods, putting all manner of things into their mouths. Take advantage of this window by offering a broad range of different food experiences.

Best Foods at 18 to 36 Months n From this point on, children can eat all types of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and other types of protein foods

Best Foods at 12 to 18 Months

n Families at risk for food allergies can cautiously introduce allergenic foods such as fish, seafood, peanuts or tree nuts after 36 months, while monitoring their reception

n Expand types of proteins to encompass fish such as wild Alaskan salmon, sardines, tilapia, cod (one serving per month to minimize ocean toxins), skipjack or chunk light canned tuna (no-sodium, no more than one serving per week)

Tip: Many toddlers go through periods of finicky responses to foods. Be patient, relax and trust that over the course of a week, rather than any single meal or day, children are likely getting their basic nutritional needs met.

To place a Classified Listing: Email listing to Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. Must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. $1.00 per word; must be pre-paid.

9232 or Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com. a healthier community while building your own financial security working from your Holistic & Green Business Owners Wanted for Participating as a Provider is Free for the 1st year. home. For sale in Austin, TX; Lexington, KY; See ad page 25. Health Network- NAN, the Natural Awakenings Manhattan, NY; Pensacola, FL; Southwest Network, is a green and healthy living network CURRENTLY PUBLISHING NATURAL VA ; a n d Ve n t u r a / S a n t a B a r b a r a , C A . that will allow members to enjoy discounts AWAKENINGS MAGAZINES – Be part of a Call for details 239-530-1377. on products & services focused on wellness, dynamic franchised publishing network that is helping green/sustainable living and healthy lifestyles. to transform the way we live and care for ourselves. SPACE FOR RENT As a Natural Awakenings publisher, your magazine If you are interested in becoming a provider (a will help thousands of readers to make Treatment Room for Rent. Full or part-time, business or organization that offers discounts to positive changes in their lives, while promoting must have your own clientele. 5286 Plainfield members) in this innovative network or want more local practitioners and providers of natural, Ave NE. Contact Cynthia at 616-460-7331 or details, contact Natural Awakenings at 616-656- Earth-friendly lifestyles. You will be creating cjsstudiosalon@yahoo.com.

OPPORTUNITIES

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natural awakenings

January 2011

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.

Saturday January 1 New Year Open House & Free Yoga Class2:00-4:30 pm. Start the year off right with a free Yoga Class (Hatha w/Kundalini twist). The Body Center. Holland. 616-834-2596 thebodycenter.us Welcome The New Year- 6:00 pm. Join us New Years Day evening as Coptic Center director John Davis speaks on “The Power of Goal Setting, Personal and Planetary” and Coptic Minister Denise Iwaniw shares “Realizing your Potential”. Love Offering. The Coptic Center. Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339.

Monday, January 3 Acupuncturist Open House-11:00 am-3:00 pm. Catherine Van Til, acupuncturist joining The ChiroFit Wellness Center, will be doing a meet and greet and will be available to answer questions regarding the benefits of acupuncture. The ChiroFit Wellness Center. 2249 Wealthy St. Suite 240. East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2348.

Wednesday, January 5 Guided Meditation and Healing Circle- 7:008:00 pm. Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation, and energy healing from Healing in America-trained healers. $5. Holistic Care Approach. Grand Rapids. 269-929-6796.

Thursday, January 6 Hypnosis for Weight Elimination- With Bob Huttinga. Call for more information. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500 Not-Back-to-School Party- 11:00 am. Homeschool families! This is a party just for you. See what the library has to offer, complete a library scavenger hunt, hear stories and experience other fun and literacy rich activities. Free. GR Public Library-Yankee Clipper Branch. Grand Rapids. 616-988-5415 or grpl.org.

Saturday, January 8 Diaper Class- 10:00am. This free class is designed for parents or expectant parents interested in the benefits of using cloth diapers. Give-aways and meet with Ashley from Bootyful Baby Boutique. Hopscotch Children’s Store 963 Cherry Street SE, Grand Rapids. 616-233-4008 Pure Meditation Foundation Class for adults-11:00 am-12:30 pm. Conquer stress, improve concentration, find inner peace, and so much more. $49 includes continuing support. Pre-registration required. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre, Bath. SelfRealizationCentreMichigan. org. 517-641-6201

Sunday, January 9 Eckankar Worship Service-10:00-11:00 am. Come celebrate the Light and Sound of God. Dominican Center at Marywood, Room 4, 2025 East Fulton St, Grand Rapids. 616-245-7003. Spa Sunday-11:00-1:30pm. Beauty & health from the inside out and the outside in. Complimentary

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Gentle Restorative Yoga class followed by Sense, a body and skin care line free of parabins and other harmful chemicals. Free. Muskegon Yoga Center. Muskegon. Reserve your spot a MuskegonYoga. com. 616-638-5625. FREE EcoTrek Fitness Snow Shoe Event- 4:005:30pm. With North Kent Co. Series Leader Terri Baumgardner. Pickerel Lake, 6001 Ramsdell Rd. Visit www.EcoTrekFitness.com.

Monday, January 10 Poetry, Puppetry, Music, and More- 10:3011:30 am. Kevin Kammeraad, local children’s author and artist, will be performing songs from his CDs. Hop Scotch children’s store. Free! Grand Rapids. For more info, contact Stephanie Kammeraad at events@hopscotchstore.com or 616-233-4008.

Tuesday, January 11 How to do a Trigger Point Massage- 6:00 pm. With Dr. Michael Kwast. Learn what a trigger point is, what causes them, how to prevent them and how to get rid of them. 4150 E. Beltline Suite #4 Grand Rapids. Limited to the first 30 callers. Call 616-447-9888 to RSVP.

Wednesday, January 12 Metaphysical Basics Level 1 Session #3 Online Course- A total of 6 weeks of lessons. What is Metaphysics, Energy Basics, Elemental Energy, Color and Light, Meditation Basics & Chi. $75. Ken Gray Subtle Energies. Delton. Visit reikiconnect. com or call 800-260-4544 for more information. Individual Retreat- 9:00 am-5:00 pm. 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, or simply catch up on much-needed rest. $25-75. To register, contact Karen Bota at the Leaven Center: 989-855-2606. www.leaven.org. “Re-Open House” Party- 4:00-6:00 pm. ChiroFit in the Gaslight Village is celebrating their 2 year Anniversary! Please join us for a “Re-Open House” Party. The ChiroFit Wellness Center. 2249 Wealthy St. Suite 240. East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2348. Community Spiritual Drum Circle- 7:00 pm. Bring your own drum, or shaker, or you can play one of ours. A love offering is appreciated. Unity Church of Peace. Ada. 616- 682-7812.

Thursday, January 13 Hypnosis for Weight Elimination- With Bob Huttinga. Call for more information. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500 Individual Retreat- 9:00 am-5:00 pm. 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, or simply catch up on much-needed rest. $25-75. To register, contact Karen Bota at the Leaven Center: 989-855-2606. www.leaven.org. Reiki Share Group-5:30pm-7:30pm. For all Reiki levels. Come to practice, meet other Reiki

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practitioners, share experiences and Reiki. Jan Atwood, LLC, 801 Broadway Ave NW, Ste. 436, Grand Rapids. 616-915-4144. Reduce Toxins & Lose Weight Through Nutritional Cleansing w/ Dr. Michael Kwast - 6:00 pm. Why am I tired and often need more energy? Why do I crave sweets? Why can’t I lose weight? Seating limited to first 30. Foundation For Wellness Professionals. Grand Rapids. 616-447-9888.

Friday, January 14 MAJIC Concert Series Presents Ralston Bowles- 7:00pm. Grand Rapids legendary singer/ songwriter Ralston Bowles will feature music from his new CD “RALLY AT THE TEXAS HOTEL.” Suggested donation of $10 at door Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Grand Rapids. Grmajic.com. 616 456 1741.

Saturday, January 15 Getaway Weekend- A peaceful retreat center near Lansing, for $69.43, includes shared room lodging, delicious, home-cooked vegetarian meals Saturday lunch to Sunday lunch. Private room, services, classes, other dates available. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre, Bath. SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org. 517-641-6201. Essential Oil Training I-10:00 am-12:00 pm & II @ 1:00-3:00 pm. Come learn all about therapeutic essential oils, and how to incorporate them into everyday use. $10/class with advanced registration via email heavenlyhealings@yahoo. com or $20/class at the door. Offered at Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. 616-443-4225. Basic Astrology Class- 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Learn about the different signs of the zodiac, planets and the houses of an astrology chart. $50/day. Nonrefundable deposit of $10/day required upon sign up and your birth chart info. The Healing Center. Lakeview. For more info call 989-352-6500. Guided Healing and Reiki Share - 7:00-9:30 pm. For Reiki practitioners. Come, enjoy. Please bring a meditation cushion. Donation only. Haelen Holistic Treatments. 147 Diamond SE, Grand Rapids. 616-446-6906.

Sunday, January 16 Getaway Weekend- A peaceful retreat center near Lansing, for $69.43, includes shared room lodging, delicious, home-cooked vegetarian meals Saturday lunch to Sunday lunch. Private room, services, classes, other dates available. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre, Bath. SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org. 517-641-6201. FREE EcoTrek Fitness Nature Hike- 8:009:15am with Northeast Series Leader Christi Otway. Fallasburg Park - Park Drive, Park by the historical bridge in Lowell. Visit www. EcoTrekFitness.com. FREE EcoTrek Fitness Snow Shoe Event12:00-3:00pm. With Muskegon Series Leader Lori McCollum. Duck Lake State Park Entrance on Scenic Dr., 0.8 miles north of Duck Lake Road. Outing will be rescheduled if not enough snow. Visit www.EcoTrekFitness.com. Reconnecting with Earth -A six week session discussion course hosted by Earth Institute of West Michigan. The first informational session is at Fountain Street Church on January 16, at 12:30. For details contact Lisa at 616- 942-6549 or greensymons@yahoo.com. Visit www.nwei.org.

Tuesday, January 18 Dyslexia Correction Program- 6:30 pm. New Chapter Learning will provide a free informational seminar on the thinking style, learning differences, and gifts of the visual thinker. Grandville Middle School. Grandville. All participants who wish to attend are encouraged to pre-register by calling 616-534-1385. For more info please visit newchapterlearning.net. Don’t be Chicken about a Whole Pastured Chicken- 7:00-8:30 pm. Chef Jana Deppe shows how to prep a chicken from your local farmerbutterfly, braise, stew tough parts, make stock, and enjoy recipes such as cordon blue, a roux sauce and more! Free. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. Grand Rapids. nourishingways.org 616-309-9147.

Wednesday, January 19 Not-Back-to-School Party- 9:30 am. Homeschool families! This is a Free party just for you. See what the library has to offer, complete a library scavenger hunt, hear stories and experience other fun and literacy rich activities. GR Public Library-Main Library. Grand Rapids. 616-988-5400 or grpl.org. Guided Meditation, Prayer and Healing Circle7:00-8:00 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. Voluntary Simplicity- A five session discussion course hosted by West Michigan Sierra Club and Earth Institute of West Michigan. The first informational meeting is January 19th, 7 – 8:30 p.m. For details contact Mary at memacleod@yahoo.com or Dolli at 616-453-3539. Visit towww.nwei.org.

Thursday, January 20 Hypnosis for Weight Elimination- With Bob Huttinga. Call for more information. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500 Dream Catcher Workshop- 4:00-6:00 pm. Learn how to make a dream catcher and take home the one you make. $25 includes supplies and preregistration is required. Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. Call or email Jodi at 616-443-4225 or heavenlyhealings@yahoo.com.

Friday, January 21 Winter Bridal Show of West Michigan- 5:009:00 pm. Brides, Grooms, Moms and Friends...the adventure of a lifetime starts now with one-stop wedding day planning! Exhibits and Fashion Shows showcasing the latest bridal colors, styles and trends. DeVos Place. Grand Rapids. kohlerexpo.com.

Saturday, January 22 History Detectives- 9:30 am-4:00 pm. A daylong event made up of six programs exploring various aspects of Grand Rapids history. Presented by area historians and members of historical and cultural organizations. Free. Grand Rapids. A box lunch is available for $6.00 and must be ordered in advance by calling 616-988-5400 or emailing rsvp@grpl.org. Winter Bridal Show of West Michigan10:00 am-4:00 pm. Brides, Grooms, Moms and Friends...the adventure of a lifetime starts now with one-stop wedding day planning! Exhibits and Fashion Shows showcasing the latest bridal colors, styles and trends. DeVos Place. Grand Rapids. kohlerexpo.com.

Reiki I & II- 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Become attuned to Reiki and learn how to give treatment to self and others. $225 includes textbook. $50 deposit required to register for class a week prior to class.Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. Contact Jodi to register at 616-443-4225. Chakra Journey- 1:30-6:30 pm. Discover your shakti in this workshop designed to bring you greater awareness of your energetic anatomy. Cost: $60/entire workshop $20/ chakra vinyasa class. Seva Yoga. East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541. Partner Yoga- 7:00-8:30 pm. Enjoy a fun and unique way to experience yoga with a loved one or friend. It encourages cooperation and respect while offering the opportunity to relax and reduce stress. Yoga experience NOT necessary. $35/ couple. Muskegon Yoga Center. Muskegon. Register at MuskegonYoga.com. 616-638-5625. Guided Healing and Reiki Share - 7:00-9:30 pm. For Reiki practitioners. Come, enjoy. Please bring a meditation cushion. Donation only. Haelen Holistic Treatments. 147 Diamond SE, Grand Rapids. 616-446-6906.

Sunday, January 23 Wild Winter Morning- 10:30-11:45am. Regular EcoTrek Session with owner Cari Draft followed by a Special Free Snowshoe event to Lake MI from 12:00-1:30pm. Hoffmaster State Park - end of Pontaluna, where it meets Lake Harbor Dr. Norton Shores - park in the Nature Center Parking lot! (snowshoeing canceled if not enough snow).

Monday, January 24 Music, Movement, and Monkeys- 10:3011:30 am. Movement can build both your brain and your muscles! Wear your comfy clothes and gym shoes and join us for this high-energy time with musician Kevin Kammeraad. Hopscotch Children’s Store 963 Cherry Street SE, Grand Rapids. For more info, contact Stephanie at events@hopscotchstore.com or 616-233-4008.

Tuesday, January 25 CranioSacral Study Group- 7:00-9:00 pm. For Up ledger students/practitioners- $5. Holistic Care Approach. Grand Rapids. Contact Jamilah Tuuk for information at 616 340-0543 or jamilahjf@gmail.com.

Friday, January 28 Reiki I/II Training Class-9:00am-5:00pm. Learn this relaxation and healing method to use on yourself and your family and friends. $225.00. Jan Atwood, LLC, 801 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids. 616-915-4144. Kids Night Out- 5:30-9:30 pm. Play, run, jump, and swing! Kids will enjoy an evening of activity and games. Dinner is included! Members $25 Nonmembers $30. Gymco. Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586. The Power of Your Recovery Story: Heal, Connect, and Advocate- 7:00pm (Friday)-1:00 pm(Sunday). Participants explore the power of the personal narrative creating understanding, tolerance, acceptance, and a tool for advocacy that will better serve themselves and each other in recovery. $190. To register, contact Karen Bota, 989-855-2606. leaven.org.

Nature’s Spiritual Connections Lecture w/ Moshe Daniels- 7:30-9:30 pm. In this lecture, we will examine each person’s role in the fulfillment of ancient prophecies in creating Heaven on Earth. Suggested donation $10 per person. Nature’s Spiritual Connections. Grand Rapids. To reserve your space please call 616-929-4204.

Saturday, January 29 Cartwheel Clinic- 10:00-11:30 am. Learn every child’s favorite back yard trick at a safe and positive place! Gymco. Grand Rapids. 616-956-0586. Reiki Level 1 w/Ken & Dana Gray - 10:00 am-5:00 pm. Discussion of chakras, Reiki 1 Attunement & the Reiki 1 symbol. Learn how to give and receive a reiki treatment. A great class for self-healing & spiritual growth. $75. Ken Gray Subtle Energies. Delton. reikiconnect.com. 800-260-4544. Essential Oil Training III- 10:00 am-12:00 pm & IV @ 1:00-3:00 pm. Learn all about the Raindrop Therapy technique for physical healings & all about Emotional Clearing Oils. $10/class with advanced registration via email heavenlyhealings@yahoo.com or $20/class at the door. Minerva’s Hand. Spring Lake. 616-443-4225. Nature’s Spiritual Connections Workshop w/ Moshe Daniel- 1:00-5:00 pm. Learn how to find harmony, balance, and joy in relationships through knowledge of Kabbalah and Alchemy. This will be an extension of Friday’s lecture. $40 per person. Nature’s Spiritual Connections. Grand Rapids. To reserve your space please call 616-929-4204. Yoga Studio CELEBRATION- 6:00-9:30pm. Kat McKinney is joining founder Carolyn Heines as co-owner of the studio! Join us in celebration. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome. Free. The Yoga Studo. Grand Rapids. 616-776-0836. The Power of Your Recovery Story: Heal, Connect, and Advocate- 7:00pm (Friday)-1:00 pm(Sunday). Participants explore the power of the personal narrative creating understanding, tolerance, acceptance, and a tool for advocacy that will better serve themselves and each other in recovery. $190. To register, contact Karen Bota, 989-855-2606. leaven.org.

Sunday, January 30 The Power of Your Recovery Story: Heal, Connect, and Advocate- 7:00pm (Friday)-1:00 pm(Sunday). Participants explore the power of the personal narrative creating understanding, tolerance, acceptance, and a tool for advocacy that will better serve themselves and each other in recovery. $190. To register, contact Karen Bota, 989-855-2606. leaven.org.

S AVE T H E D ATE Saturday, March 5 2011 Genesis Health & Wellness Fair10:00am-3:00pm. Featuring local experts in nutrition, chiropractic care, children’s health, spiritual direction, holistic skin care, community supported agriculture, food sampling booths, activities for children, hands-on demonstrations and much more. Contact Ron Ward at livingsoil@ gmail.com. Genesis UMC, 1601 Galbraith Rd, Grand Rapids. 616-974-0400.

natural awakenings

January 2011

ongoingevents

Wednesday

Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. Events must be re-submitted each month by the 15th of the month. Events subject to change, please call ahead.

All Month Long Fresh and Healthy Asian Grocery Destination - First-time customers receive 10% off your $20 or higher purchase. Asian Delight Marketplace, 4463 Breton Rd, Grand Rapids. 616-827-1828 Spilled Ink: The Book Club for the Rest of Us- 11/6-2/28. Sign up, read ten books, and win prizes! A great way for grown-ups to beat the winter blues. Free. All Grand Rapids Public Library locations. Find out more at grpl.org/ spilledink or 616-988-5400.

Sunday C3Exchange, Inclusive Spiritual Community: Awakenings- 9:00 am. Chants, meditation, prayer. No experience necessary. Come as you are. C3Exchange, Inclusive Spiritual Community, 225 E. Exchange Street, Spring Lake. 616-8421985. c3exchange.org. C3Exchange, Inclusive Spiritual Community: Main Gathering- 10:00 am. Progressive spiritual teaching with music, meditation, discussion and children’s program. C3Exchange, Inclusive Spiritual Community, 225 E. Exchange Street, Spring Lake. 616-842-1985. c3exchange.org. Unity Church of Peace - 10:00 am. Celebrating God’s presence in human nature. Offering uplifting messages that are spiritual without being religious. Youth programs & Nursery. 6025 Ada Drive SE, Ada. 616-682-7812. www.unitychurchofpeace.org. Worship Service- 10:00 am. Coptic Minister Denise Iwaniw. The Fourth Sunday of each month we host this time of self-reflection and sharing. This month’s Love Offering will be new or used winter clothing. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500 Hot Yoga- 4:00-5:30 pm. An intense practice combining traditional yoga poses and sequences intended to increase the sweat, thus detoxifying, toning and strengthening the entire body. $15. Ongoing. SatyaYoga Center. Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. The Coptic Center Sunday Series – 6:00 pm. An ongoing series of inspirational speakers, centering and the piano music of Karen Lauck as we explore Universal Truths. TheCopticCenter. org. Love Offering. The Coptic Center, 0-381 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids. 616-531-1339. Kriplau Yoga w/ Molly Ebers- 7:00 pm. Gentle/ Moderate: basic practice of foundational postures & breathing techniques. $10-16 per class. Seva Yoga. East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

Monday 50% Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-ofthe-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. Yoga-Beginning- 9:00am. This is where you start. Learn the basic poses, strengthen, breath awareness and relax. For more information visit

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SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231852-0849. Gentle 1st Chakra Hatha Yoga- 9:15-10:45 am. Drop-ins welcome. Classes meet at The Body Center. 650 Riley Street, Suite A, Holland, MI 49424. 616-834-2596. Visit thebodycenter .us for more information. Essential Oil Training- 1:00-3:00 pm. Different class offered each week, Therapeutic Grade Oils, Everyday Oils, Raindrop Therapy, Emotional Clearing Oils, & Spiritual Journey Oils. $10/class w/ registration via email heavenlyhealings @yahoo.com or $20/class at the door. Grand Rapids. 616-443-4225. Pilates on the Mat- 6:00 pm. Move with grace and flexibility at Holland’s ONLY STOTT PILATES certified studio with a total body workout. Align Fitness. Holland. AlignFitnessofHolland.com, or call 616-928-0929. Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Vinyasa Flow Warm Yoga- 6:30 - 7:45 pm. Dropins welcome. Classes meet at The Body Center. 650 Riley Street, Suite A, Holland, MI 49424. 616-8342596. Visit thebodycenter.us for more information. Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 7:30pm. Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For more details visit our website at sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541.

Tuesday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman- 7:459:00 am & 9:15-10:30 am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Hatha Yoga- 8:30-10:00am. Learn Hatha yoga in small groups. Out of the Blue, Inc. 351 Cummings NW, Grand Rapids. Contact Deb Leonard for more info. 616-916-0015. Line Dance Lessons- 5:30 pm & 7:00 pm . Exercise and dance. This class is a little bit country, little bit rock-n-roll, with some latin music. $5. Naturopathic Community Center. Mt. Pleasant. 989-773-1714. www.nite-mtp.com Barre Fitness Class - 5:30 pm. Firm, tighten, strengthen, and stretch your way to a healthy, fit body in this exciting, new fitness class. Align Fitness. Holland. 616-928-0929. AlignFitnessofHolland.com. Free Natural Health Classes- 6:30 pm. Naturopathic Community Center. Mt. Pleasant. Free. For a schedule of classes, please call 989773-3636. www.nite-mtp.com/nccmain. htm A Course In Miracles (A.C.I.M.) 7:00-8:30 pm. This self-study system is unique in teaching forgiveness as the road to inner peace and the remembrance of the unconditional love of God. Unity Church of Peace. Ada. 616- 682-7812.

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50% Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-ofthe-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. A Course In Miracles (A.C.I.M.) 9:00-11:00 am. This self-study system is unique in teaching forgiveness as the road to inner peace and the remembrance of the unconditional love of God. Unity Church of Peace. Ada. 616- 682-7812. Gentle 2nd Chakra Hatha Yoga- 9:15-10:45 am. Drop-ins welcome. Classes meet at The Body Center, 650 Riley Street, Suite A, Holland, MI 49424. 616-834-2596. thebodycenter.us for more information. Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 10:30am. Gentle and 7:30pm. Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For details visit sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541. Regroup and Renew Hatha Yoga - 12:00-12:45 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Classes meet at The Body Center. 650 Riley Street, Suite A, Holland, MI 49424. 616-834-2596. Visit thebodycenter. us for more information. Spiritual Intuitive Guidance and Healing w/ Dawnette- 2:00-4:00 pm. Dawnette has been offering her life affirming approach for 16 yrs. Walk-ins welcome. Nature’s Spiritual Connections. Grand Rapids. To schedule an appointment please call 616-828-7401 or 616-929-4204. Course in Miracles -6:00 pm. Taught by Cindy Berry-Addis. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500. Pilates on the Mat- 6:00 pm. Move with grace and flexibility at Holland’s ONLY STOTT PILATES certified studio with a total body workout. Align Fitness. Holland. AlignFitnessofHolland.com, or call 616-928-0929. Zen Meditation Group- 6:30-7:30 pm. If you are new to meditation, please arrive ten minutes early for a brief introduction. Everyone welcome. $5 suggested donation. Naturopathic Community Center. Mt. Pleasant. 989-486-5782. thedharmafarm.com Educate and Mediate- 1st & 3rd Wednesday. 6:30-7:45 pm. Visit thebodycenter.us for more information. The Body Center. 650 Riley Street, Suite A, Holland, MI 49424. 616-834-2596. Winter Detoxification Class-7:00-8:30pm. Join Dr. Dan Gleason as he takes you through 21 days of detoxification. $50. C3 Exchange, 225 E. Exchange St., Spring Lake. RSVP required. 616-846-5410.

Thursday Barre Fitness Class - 5:30 pm. Firm, tighten, strengthen, and stretch your way to a healthy, fit body in this exciting, new fitness class. Align Fitness. Holland. 616-928-0929. AlignFitnessofHolland.com. Basic Astrology- 5:30-7:00 pm. With Gail Burmeister. $15. Call for more information. The Healing Center 332 S. Lincoln, Lakeview. 989-352-6500

Complete Yoga: Level 2 / 3- 6:00-8:00 pm. Join Michele for a full yoga practice of pranayama, theory, vinyasa, holdings, benefits of postures and more. All levels are welcome. $15. On-going. Satya Yoga Center. Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. Advanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Yoga: Restore, Rehabilitate, & Detox6:30-7:45 pm. 650 Riley Street, Suite A, Holland, MI 49424. 616-834-2596. Visit TheBodyCenter.us for more information. Grand Rapids Buddhist Meditation Group- 7:30 pm. For group sitting and walking meditation followed by book study. Beginners welcome. Instruction provided. Free. Sacred Space. Grand Rapids. 616452-2115.

Friday Hatha Yoga- 8:30-10:00am. Learn Hatha yoga in small groups. Out of the Blue, Inc. 351 Cummings NW, Grand Rapids. Contact Deb Leonard for more info. 616-916-0015. Yoga-Intermediate- 9:00 am. Learn the basics. Holding poses longer and moving deeper into your practice and awareness of the core. For more information visit SmilingLotusYoga.com or call Smiling Lotus Yoga, 103 E. Ludington Ave, Ludington. 231-852-0849. Gentle 3rd Chakra Hatha Yoga- 9:1510:45 am. Drop-ins welcome. Classes meet at The Body Center. 650 Riley Street, Suite A, Holland, MI 49424. 616-834-2596. Visit thebodycenter.us for more information. Kripalu Yoga with Marro Spehar - 7:00pm. Gentle/Moderate. Drop-ins welcome. For details visit sevayoga.net. Seva Yoga Studio, 2213 Wealthy Ste 220, East Grand Rapids. 616-458-2541

Saturday Pranayama & Yoga- 7:30-8:30 am. Conscious breathing techniques and meditations to heal, balance and connect, followed by a complete yoga practice for all levels. Pranayama $5, Yoga $10. Classes on-going. Satya Yoga Center. Saugatuck. 269-857-7289. Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 9:00-10:15 am & 10:30-11:45 am. Dropins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. Sweetwater Local Foods Market- 9:00 am1:00 pm. Indoors at Hackley Health at the Lakes, Harvey St. 1/2 Mile South of Lakes Mall. Exit US 31 at Pontaluna Rd. Muskegon. Ashtanga Yoga Primary Series- 10:00-11:30 am. This specifically sequenced practice serves as yoga therapy, realigning the spine, detoxifying the body, and building strength, flexibility and stamina. $15. Ongoing. Satya Yoga Center. Saugatuck. 269-857-7289

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CHIROPRACTIC CARE

ACUPUNCTURE 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 OUT of THE BLUE INC

Nancy Despres RN, MBE 351 Cummings NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-4215 www.OutoftheBlueInc.net *UPDATED* Out of the Blue helps find alternative ways for achieving optimal health through the use of homeopathy, enzyme therapy nutritional supplements & hair mineral analysis. Now carrying homeopathic Hcg drops for weight loss.

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.

SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA

Dr. Andrew Schafer 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000 Treating musculoskeletal conditions, and specializing in back pain, sciatica neck pain, and headaches. Also offering physical therapy, massage therapy, and postural awareness. Most insurances accepted. Breton Village area. www. grchirospa.com. See ad page 7.

CLOTH DIAPERS BOOTYFUL BABY BOUTIQUE, LLC

AYURVEDA MINDFUL BODY TRANSFORMATION Chad: 616-581-8881 myzconnection@att.net Order online at: myzconnection.myzrii.com Click “Join” to get preferred customer rates

How are you getting your daily supply of Haritaki, Jujube, Schizandra, Ginger, Amla, Turmeric, Tulsi, Green Tea, Guggul, and Gymnema? Experience what Ayurvedic specialists around the world already know!

Allendale, Michigan 616-892-1525 www.bootyfulbabyboutique.com

Modern cloth diapers that are proudly made in Michigan. A healthy choice for your baby, your wallet and our Earth. We love to help parents make the switch!

COLON HYDROTHERAPY HARMONY ‘N HEALTH Mary De Lange, CCT., CMT. 1003 Maryland Av., N.E. Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 www.harmonynhealth.net

BODYWORK WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com

Certified Massage Therapist offering Therapeutic & LaStone Massage. Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner, Certified Reflexologist, and a Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner. See ad, page 19.

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 39.

natural awakenings

January 2011

THE BODY CENTER-HOLLAND

Marcella Clark, CMMT, CCHT 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.

TRICIA E. GOSLING

Holistic Care Approach 3368 Beltline Ct NE 616-481-9074 Offering an advanced clientcentered dimension of colonics: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 15 years of experience. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions. I-ACT certified Instructor.

COUNSELING 1514 Wealthy St. SE Ste 260, Grand Rapids 616-451-3008 JDelange06@yahoo.com www.janicedelange.com A mind-body-spirit approach for trauma and abuse recovery, PTSD, low sense of self-worth, panic & phobias, anxiety, depression, relationships. EMDR & Energy interventions.

DENTISTRY / HOLISTIC DENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER

Dr. Kevin P. Flood DDS 4990 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids 616-974-4990 www.FloodTheDentist.com Comprehensive Holistic Dental Services – Amalgam Removal & Replacement. Bio-Compatible, metal-free materials, LowDose Digital X-Rays, Gentle Anesthesia. See ad page 48.

DYSLEXIA

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 33.

BARBARA ZIELINSKI, INTERFAITH PRACTITIONER

233 Washington, Suite 208, Grand Haven 616-502-2078 www.barbarazielinski.vepweb.com Ordained Minister, NADA Certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist and Reiki Master. Cultivating healing and balance through Auricular Acupuncture for Addictions, Reiki, Integral Workshops/Coaching, Spiritual Care/Counseling, Life Passage Rituals/Ceremonies. Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com Matrix Energetics is a system used to heal, transform and create new possibilities in your life. Using principles of quantum physics and subtle energy Matrix Energetics helps you to shift into a more balanced state. See ad page 19.

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, and Mineral make-up. Services: Ionic detoxing foot baths, Physical and Emotional balancing, biofeedback readings. See ad page 12.

HEAVENLY HEALINGS HOLISTIC HEALTH SERVICES

NEW CHAPTER LEARNING

Sandra McPhall Licensed Davis Dyslexia Correction Provider 616-534-1385 www.newchapterlearning.net Providing the Davis Dyslexia Correction® Program that has grown to be the most widely used program in the world correcting approximately 20,000 dyslexics per year with a 97% success rate.

West Michigan Edition

AMA DEUS®

MATRIX ENERGETICS

JANICE DE LANGE, PH.D

ENERGY HEALING

Jodi Jenks - Reiki Master 4434 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 www.heavenlyhealings.org I am a Reiki Master that also does Essential Oil therapies including Raindrop Therapy, Emotional Clearing and Spiritual Journey work. Call or email for appointments or questions, 616-443-4225 or heavenlyhealings@ yahoo.com.

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HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER THE WELLNESS FORUM

830 Forest Hill Ave Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-942-7907 www.WellnessForum.com Educational programs for personal health improvement Workplace wellness programs - Wellness Forum Foundation focused on school nutrition and children’s health - National conferences.

HEALTH FOOD STORES AFFORDABLE NUTRITION

Joel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner 7493 Cottonwood Drive, Jenison 616-667-1346 Affordable, natural ap-proach to better health. Certified nutritional consultant. 20 years experience. Offering select high quality vitamins and nutritional supplements. Weight loss, cleansing, sports nutrition and more! Senior discounts.

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 19.

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 5.

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 20.

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 20.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE SHORELINE CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

South Haven Community Hospital 950 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090 269-639-2833 Alternative therapies are used in conjunction with conventional medicine to balance your mind, body and spirit. We also offer laser hair removal, laser vein reduction and skin care services. See ad page 12.

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, and a Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner. Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling, lectures and classes. See ad page 19.

MASSAGE THERAPY SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA

Sheri Beth Schafer, CMT, Reiki Master 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000 We have multiple certified massage therapists offering relaxation (Swedish), deep tissue massage, and medical massage. We also offer Reiki, chakra balancing, and Ayurvedic bodywork. Breton Village area. www.grchirospa.com. See ad pages 7 & 30.

MIDWIFERY BIRTH SONG MIDWIFERY SERVICES

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.

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.

RETREAT CENTER THE LEAVEN CENTER

Lyons, Michigan 989-855-2606 www.leaven.org A place of beauty on the banks of the Grand River where you can find rest and nourishment for your body and spirit. Offering workshops, retreats, and rental space year-round.

HOME BIRTH PARTNERS, LLC

Susan Wente, CNM, Dr. PH 231-652-3247 www.HomeBirthworks.com This regions only Certified Nurse Midwife with 32 years experience – over 3000 births attended. Providing pre-natal, home and hospital births and postpartum care. Gynecological and Doula services available.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AMANDA GEERTS

Health Coach 616-502-2707 www.amandageerts.com Get support to take control of your health and your MS. Amanda Geerts received her Health Coach training at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City. See ad page 39.

SCHOOL/EDUCATION NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION

503 E. Broadway St Mt. Pleasant, MI. 48858 989-773-1714 www.nite-mtp.com Educational Programs: Natural Health 1-4 Years, Birth Assistant 6 Months (1 weekend per month), Massage Therapy 1 Year (2 weekends per month), Individual Classes available. 15 years of excellence. See ad page 2.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN CENTER EDEN ENVIRONMENTS

Denise Hopkins, AIA, LEED AP 401 Hall St. SW Suite 231 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.

REIKI HAELEN HOLISTIC TREATMENTS

Connie Jean Cunningham www.haelenholistic.com 616-446-6906 Certified Usui Reiki Master and Karuna ® Reiki. Offering professional reiki treatments, classes, personal instruction and guidance. Specialized treatment areas include chemotherapy support, PTSD, phantom limb pain, stress, and spiritual expansion.

HEAL WITH KATIE

Katie Ray 269-804-9307 www.healwithkatie.com Katie Ray is a Certified Massage Therapist and Reiki Master. Offering deep tissue and medical massage, Usui Reiki treatments, and healing attunements. See ad page 31.

WATERBIRTH SHORELINE’S WOMEN’S CENTER AT SOUTH HAVEN COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Eva Fronk, CNM and Mercedes Moran, CNM 950 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090 269-639-2720 Offering the only water birthing program in Southwest Michigan. Our Certified Nurse Midwives assist the mother during water birth delivery, in collaboration & consultation with our obstetricians. Call today to learn more. See ad page 5.

natural awakenings

January 2011

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com