Natural Awakenings Magazine May 2013 by Natural Awakenings Magazine ~ West Michigan

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Special Edition

Aging Gracefully

Women’s Wellness

Redefine Your Best Years Yet

Detox for SPRING

TRUST YOUR GUT

A Natural, Gentle Cleanse

Instincts to Heed

May 2013 | West Michigan Edition | NaturalWestMichigan.com never glossy – always green

natural awakenings

May 2013

West Michigan Edition

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contents 5 newsbriefs 10 healthbriefs 12 globalbriefs 10 14 ecotip 18 wisewords 20 greenliving 12 3 1 inspiration 32 healingways 36 nanquarterly

directory 4 1 calendar

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.

15 NO MORE MERCURY 18 SEEKING SOULMATES ONLINE

Coach Evan Marc Katz’s Advice for Internet Dating by Kim Childs

20 CLUTTER-TAMING TIPS

43 classifieds

Save Time, Money and Sanity by April Thompson

44 naturaldirectory

22 HONEYBEE RESCUE

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 Ifyouenjoyedthismagazineandwouldliketoknowwhereyoucanpick upafreecopyinyourarea,pleasecontactusat616-656-9232oremail us at: publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com

The Dangers of Dental Amalgams by Dr. Kevin Flood, DDS

Small-Scale Beekeeping by N’ ann Harp

24 AGING GRACEFULLY It’s No Mystery: We Now Know How by Kathleen Barnes

31 LISTENING TO INNER WISDOM

5 Instincts To Heed by Dr. Judith Orloff

32 THE STRESS

EPIDEMIC The 10 Second Solution

by Elle Ingalls

34 SPRING DETOX

32 34

Gentle Natural Cleansing Works Best by Linda Sechrist

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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May 2013

letterfrompublishers

pring brings many good things, including a biannual spring detox in our family. Although it’s not much fun, in the end making the effort is so worth feeling cleansed and refreshed. In Linda Sechrist’s “Spring Detox: Gentle Natural Cleansing Works Best,” leading experts with a combined 60 years of experience explain how to begin and what to avoid. I like to follow each detox period with a fresh start aimed at taking overall better care of myself. Spring just makes me want to “really get my life together.” For example, spring energizes Kyle and me to spring clean, declutter the house and better organize our life. April Thompson adds to the incentive in “Clutter-Taming Tips

contact us Publishers Kyle & Amy Hass Editors S. Alison Chabonais Linda Sechrist Design & Production Interactive Media Design Scott Carvey Printer Stafford Media Solutions Natural Awakenings 484 Sunmeadow Dr. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508 Phone: 616-656-9232 Publisher@NaturalWestMichigan.com

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Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (12 issues) to the above address. © 2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

Committed to Sustainability Natural Awakenings is locally owned and operated.

Save Time, Money and Sanity.” The opposite of a hoarder, I love to get rid of things we no longer use. We’re lucky that every year our neighborhood hosts a huge garage sale in June providing an easy way to pass along unneeded items that someone else can use. We’ve all proven time and again that, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” This project prompts Kyle and me to have fun repurposing items and also causes us to re-evaluate how we can be more efficient in accomplishing house chores. Spring-boarding from these basic cleanups inside and out, it becomes time to start tackling the goals we set for ourselves during the ritual spring turnover. Because we find it’s hard to dive into implementing our long list of major goals, a few weeks ago we decided to set what we call Baby Steps of Goals. Each week we take one goal, starting with the one we feel is the easiest to achieve and make sure that no matter what, we get to that one thing every day. For example, our first week’s goal was to drink our green foods smoothie each day. During week two we added on the next easiest goal, drinking a designated minimum amount of water per day, so that now we are making sure we do both things. Each week we keep adding in a new baby step goal. Since we have started this program, we feel great. We are not only able to keep the goals in place, we are consistently adding to our accomplishments. This way, we’re not overwhelmed or feeling bad when life circumstances happen and attempt to derail us. Soon these little goals become habits that we trust will stay with us for a lifetime of good health. Happy Spring,

Never Glossy. Always Green. Natural Awakenings practices environmental sustainability by printing on post-consumer recycled paper with soy-based ink. This choice avoids the toxic chemicals and high energy costs of producing shiny, coated paper that is hard to recycle.

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Amy & Kyle Hass, Publishers

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newsbriefs Get Ready Now

he Naturopathic Institute is now taking applications for their Massage Therapy Program and the Natural Health first year course – Natural Health Educator. Both of these programs are designed for the non-traditional, working adult student. Courses are offered on the weekend starting Friday from 5pm-9pm and on Saturday & Sunday from 9am-6pm. Housing accommodations are also available for $75 per weekend at the facility or at a partner bed and breakfast just a few blocks away. These programs will provide you with the tools you will need to enhance what you are already doing, or start you on a new career path. Tuition for both the Massage Therapy and Natural Health programs include your massage table, all your books and required classroom supplies to complete your courses for the year. The Natural Health program is a fouryear diploma curriculum that leads to the designation of Certified Naturopath. This designation allows one to sit for the national exam and, if successful, will be granted the Naturopathic Doctor credential. The Naturopathic Institute is licensed by the State of Michigan and accredited by the Naturopathic Medical Accreditation Board. Contact them to request a catalog or make an appointment with an admissions counselor at 989773-1714, or at nitemtp@localnet.com. You can also visit www.naturopathicinstitute.info to learn more about their weekend courses for the non-traditional adult student. Naturopathic Institute is located at 503 East Broadway Street in Mount Pleasant, MI. See ad page 2 & 47.

LifeHouse Residential Living & Wellness Program Centers

ifeHouse Residential Living & Wellness Program Centers™ will be holding a series of public

informational meetings to introduce and discuss a new residential living, educational, and wellness center franchise being planned for the Grand Rapids, Metro Detroit, Greater Ann Arbor and Lansing areas. The Grand Rapids meeting will be held Wednesday, May 8 from 6:00 - 8:00pm at AES Meeting Room located at 949 Wealthy Street SE, Suite 201 in Grand Rapids. Each of the eco-friendly LifeHouse Residential Living & Wellness Centers™ will be surrounded with an organic permaculture landscape and have an on-site greenhouse as well as offer opportunities for residential living, short and long-term nutritional detoxification and rejuvenation programs. Also offered will be organic nutritional meals and juices, health-related professional services, as well as a variety of educational programs and classes - including yoga, healthy food preparation, exercise/fitness classes, essential oil and aroma therapies, indoor food growing, meditation, deep breathing techniques, and healthy lifestyle support and coaching. For further information about meeting locations, dates and times visit www.uulink.com/lifehouse or by phone for Greater Grand Rapids Area - Contact: Paul Murray at 231-350-0897. For Metro Detroit/Oakland County/Ann Arbor - Contact: Vicki Moore at 248-894-6647. For Greater Lansing Area - Contact: Mark Rosenberg at 517-568-1017.

On The Path to Growth

andy Parker opened On The Path Yoga in 2011 and a couple of months later Anne VanderHoek joined her, opening Return2Wellness Naturopathic Therapies in office space located within the yoga studio.

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May 2013

Their success and growth have required them to expand and move into a larger facility located at 701 E. Savidge, #2, Spring Lake in May of 2013. “We are thrilled to expand and offer more classes, workshops and special events for the lakeshore area in a larger facility better suited for both businesses,” Parker says. Other amenities will include changing rooms, a larger personal storage area, as well as full handicap accessibility. On The Path Yoga offers a variety of classes for all abilities from adaptive Chair Yoga to Ashtanga Yoga for advanced practitioners. There is also a special children’s program called Zoo Zen Yoga for Kids as well as a prenatal program, Bija Yoga. Other instructors include Jaclyn Szelong, Janina Schmieder, Linda Siewert, and Rachel Fetterly. Anne VanderHoek of Return2Wellness offers a variety of complementary therapies focusing on holistic health. “I am trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, Essential Oil and Flower Essences, nutrition as well as 16 different types of bodywork,” states VanderHoek. Her office space will have a separate entrance and will include two therapy rooms, so she will be adding another therapist to her practice after the move. Both businesses will remain at the current location until May 18th, then close for one week and re-open at the new location on May 28th, right after Memorial Day Weekend. Special events will be offered throughout the month of June to celebrate the re-opening. For more information and class schedule visit www. OnThePathYoga.com. See ad page 16.

Sérendipité Organiques Has Moved

utgrowing her original location after only nine months, Sérendipité Organiques owner Teri Kelley has moved her retail store. Living in and absolutely loving all that East Hills has to offer, she knew she wanted to keep her store in the area. She was elated to find space in the Blackport Building on

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the corner of Lake and Diamond. Kelley’s business model is to exclusively provide products that score ‘Low Hazard 0-2’ on ewg.org/ skindeep, a website with scores of over 81,000 body care and makeup products. The scoring system is 0-10, with 0-2 being low hazard, 3-6 moderate, and 7-10 high hazard for toxic ingredients. Sérendipité Organiques carries products that are healthy for your family, your home, and your pets. You’ll find the original three product lines, Sappho Organic Cosmetics, Rejuva Minerals, Face Naturals, and newcomer Brittanie’s Thyme. Kelley continuously researches other lines to add that meet her strict criteria. She also holds Toxic Ingredient Workshops where you can learn how to decipher good from bad ingredients in products we all use daily. For more information visit www.serendipiteorganiques, ‘like’ at facebook.com/SerendipiteOrganiques, call 616419-8115, or visit 959 Lake Dr SE, Ste 2 in Grand Rapids. See ad page 18 & 44.

Author Talk & Book Signing

ocal author Elizabeth (Beth) Cosmos, PhD, ThD will be at Schuler Books & Music located at 2660 28th Street in Grand Rapids on Thursday, May 23rd at 7:00pm for an Author Talk and Book Signing for her book Ama-Deus: Healing with the Sacred Energy of the Universe. A gift written to honor the memory of the author’s teacher, the Guarani and her personal healing journey long the way. Twenty years ago renowned healer Alberto Aguas went into the Brazilian jungle to study with an indigenous tribe known as the Guarani, who entrusted Alberto to bring a sacred knowledge to the world; a knowledge that they had been protecting for centuries. Alberto made it his life mission to travel the world to teach the energy healing system that he called Ama-Deus (“to love God”).

“Ama-Deus is the story of how I met Alberto while he was ailing, and how I came to carry on his mission after his death, to teach, to preserve, and spread the message of Ama-Deus to the world,” states Cosmos. For more information about Ama-Deus: Healing with the Sacred Energy of the Universe, visit www.ama-deusinternational.com/ama-deus-book. See ad page 45 & 47.

Meniere’s Disease & Trigeminal Neuralgia Symposium

he Meniere’s Research Organization will be hosting its 13th Annual Meniere’s Disease Symposium on June 22nd from 10am to 5pm at the East Lake Office Building located at 3501 Lake Eastbrook Blvd in Grand Rapids. The Meniere’s Disease and Trigeminal Neuralgia Symposium is open to doctors, patients and caregivers. Learn about important traditional and complementary alternatives to one-sided neurological problems like Meniere’s Disease, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, Bell’s Palsy, Parkinson’s and Migraines. Be examined by a team of expert doctors the same day! Registration fee is only $300 for doctors and new patients, $50 for existing patients and $25 for caregivers and students. Seating is limited, so call 616575-9990 to reserve your seat today. For more information visit www.MenieresResearch.com and www.BurconChiropractic.com. 616-575-9990. See ad page 29.

Yoga for Fertility

aechel Morrow presents “Yoga for Fertility” a unique form of yoga designed to prepare the body, mind, and spirit, for new life. This series will provide support, education, guided meditations and specially selected yoga poses to open the pelvis, stimulate reproduction. You will learn techniques to calm anxiety and let go of negative thinking as you discover new Raechel Morrow ways to become fertile and powerful in all areas in your life. Raechel is registered with Yoga Alliance and Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapies. She has studied with Sue Dumais of Vancouver and Dr. Christiane Northrup after her own journey of fertility struggles. Her focus is using yoga therapeutically to address women’s health issues, through the physical, emotional and spiritual healing of yoga. Yoga for Fertility series takes place from May 11-June 15 on Saturdays from 2:00-3:30pm. Cost for the series is only $125 and is held at Cascade Yoga Studio located at 5060 Cascade Rd SE, in Grand Rapids. Call or email for more details: 616-464-1610 or info@ cascadeyogastudio.com. See ads pages 14 & 16.

Harmony ‘n Health Colon Hydrotherapy

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

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

Therapeutic Massage also available

Mary@HarmonynHealth.net

www.HarmonynHealth.net

natural awakenings

May 2013

Upcoming Educational Classes

ur bodies have a unique way of storing our stories, thoughts and experiences. Our body knows us on a very intimate level, and understands how we operate. When we are open to this level of awareness, we can identify which chakra or meridian we may need to focus on for our personal growth or healing. Joan Hofman MA, LPC Generally speaking, certain feelings and fears tend to reside in certain meridians, chakras and organs. If we have a basic understanding of what kinds of feelings and thoughts are stored, then it becomes possible to acknowledge what kind of action we may need to promote our health or healing. Joan Hofman MA, LPC, will be teaching a variety of classes this spring and summer on how to access and understand the subtle meanings our bodies offer us. The classes will be a mix of educational classes along with some journaling and/or guided art experiences. She has over fifteen years of experience in psychology and energy therapies. The first class is called Chakra Connections and will be offered in three sections during Thursday evenings from 6:30-9:00pm. The dates are May 23, June 6, and June 20. Cost is only $125 for all three classes. For more information visit www.joanhofman.com or contact Joan at joanhofman@tds.net or call 616-974-5594. See ad page 27.

20th Annual National Senior Health & Fitness Day

lder adults are invited to participate in National Senior Health & Fitness Day (NSHFD) on Wednesday, May 29th from 9am-2pm at the Maranatha Conference Center located at 4579 Lake Harbor Road in Norton Shores.

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Across the country more than 100,000 older adults will participate in local events to promote healthy, active aging. More than 1,000 locations across the country participate in NSHFD, providing seniors with opportunities to try different health & fitness programs offered in their communities. In its 19th year, NSHFD is the nation’s largest health promotion event for older adults. New this year will be a special “Technology Room” for seniors where seniors can learn more about the latest technology and how to use it. Area “Tech Experts” will help answer questions and demonstrate some of the features of the most popular technology. There will be vendors with free giveaways, health screenings, several fitness demonstrations, opportunities to participate in activities such as Yoga, Zumba, Tai Chi, Line Dancing, Mini-golf, Pickleball and much more! A delicious lunch will be provided by AgeWell Services. Get your lunch ticket at AgeWell’s Wellness Office, Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm at 560 Seminole, in Muskegon. Tickets can also be purchased at the registration table on the day of the event. However, please note that quantities are limited. For more information call AgeWell Services at 231-7338643. See ad page13.

New Tele-Seminars Teaching Stress-Management

lle Ingalls, CEO and founder of Pressure-Free Living, has announced a new tele-seminar, “Introduction to Pressure-Free Living,” to teach the basics of her 10-Second Solution stress-management method. Conference video/phone calls are scheduled for Sunday evenings from 8pm-9pm on May 5, 12, 19, and 26. Once registered, participants can choose any of the dates and even repeat the session, based on availability. Following the session, you may choose to continue on with the full course. Participants will learn practical stress management techniques based on the latest science on the fight-orflight stress response. Ingalls said, “Once you understand how your mind and body react to perceived threats, you are able to take control of your reactions and change your outcomes. “With less cortisol and other stress hormones in

your system, you can experience improved health, relationships and performance on the job, in school, in all activities. The changes can be immediate,” she added. The cost tele-seminar is only $75. To register and learn more, visit www.Pressure-Free.com or call 269-832-3573. Elle will also be presenting a free seminar on test anxiety for teens on May 17 at 7pm, at White Lake Community Library in Whitehall. See ad page 26.

SPECIAL THANKS Reflections on My First Year by Linda Snow

ince taking the leap into the unknown of pursuing a dream, and a passion, I have survived my first year as a Shopkeeper. WoW!!. . . I have experienced the highest of highs, such as the times customers remark about how great the shop is, how wonderful it smells, or how they love my products. I’ve experienced the lowest of lows thru days empty of customers, struggling to pay the bills, and wondering which marketing way to turn. I’ve worn the hats of manufacturer & producer, alchemist & potion maker, curator and merchandiser, hostess & cashier, begrudging marketer & accountant.

I’ve experienced the thrill of discovering new and wonderful botanical gifts and their many uses, which have triumphed beyond my expectations, and suffered egg on my face for offering products that performed less than hoped. I’ve had the unwavering support and encouragement of my family and many old friends. I’ve met some really wonderful people who have become my inspiration and found a permanent place in my heart as true and fast friends. I’ve had the pure joy of meeting the best and most interesting customers, local artists, and craftspeople, and have become enlightened regarding the importance and benefits of shopping local, and am proud to share an affinity with the passion that small business owners and artisan craftspeople have for what they do and how their lives are transformed by daring to dream and to offer it publicly. I would like to thank the many wonderful customers, friends, and family who have supported me and allowed me to realize a dream. I raise a glass in affirmation and hope for the future growth and community of Moondrop Herbals and Natural Elements! Moondrop Herbals and Natural Elements, 351 Cummings NW, Grand Rapids. 616-735-1285. See ad page 6.

Come Find What Your Missing!

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May 2013

healthbriefs

More Sleep Helps Shed Pounds

njoying more zzz’s is not usually associated with weight loss, but a growing number of epidemiological studies suggest that insufficient sleep may be linked to a greater risk of weight gain. The latest results from a study presented at the 2012 annual meeting of the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior points out that sleep behavior influences body weight by affecting not only how many calories we consume, but also how much energy we expend. When researchers at Tübingen and Lübeck universities, in Germany, and Uppsala University, in Sweden, investigated the effect of short-term sleep deprivation on hunger, physical activity and energy levels, they discovered that insufficient sleep increased the participants’ sensations of hunger by raising the level of the “hunger hormone”, ghrelin. The less sleep a person had, the hungrier they felt. After only one night of disrupted sleep, the volunteers moved around less and burned off fewer calories in their resting state than their counterparts that enjoyed a good night’s sleep.

Functional Training Protects Against Falls

eniors that integrate strength and balance training into everyday activities experience nearly one-third fewer falls, according to a new study published online by BMJ (formerly British Medical Journal). A team of researchers at the University of Sydney, Australia, designed and tested the Lifestyle Integrated Functional Exercise program to reduce the risk of falls in people over 70. For example, a prescribed activity for improving balance was to stand on one leg while working, and for strength training, squatting to close a drawer. The study found that the average rate of falls per year for those in the program was 1.66, compared with 2.28 in a control group.

Working Out Hot Flashes

ne of the most common and uncomfortable symptoms of menopause may respond positively to a simple, no-cost measure. Health researchers at Penn State report that menopausal women that exercise may experience fewer hot flashes in the 24 hours following physical activity. In this first-time study of objective versus subjective, or self-reported, hot flashes, the Pennsylvania researchers studied 92 menopausal women for 15 days.

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May is Asparagus Month

ometimes referred to as the aristocrat of vegetables, asparagus has been cultivated for more than 2,000 years. It was prized by ancient Greeks and Romans for its taste and reputed medicinal qualities, and 19th-century French bridegrooms, believing it was an aphrodisiac, frequently ate several helpings on the eve of their nuptials. The crop reaches its peak during April and May. Packing a fiber-filled punch of vitamins A and C, this princely veggie also delivers significant helpings of folate and rutin, which help to strengthen blood vessels. Its delicate flavor is best preserved by stir-frying or light steaming. Source: FruitsAndVeggiesMatter.gov

The Exercise Advantage

aking a brisk walk or bike ride may stave off cognitive decline better than reaching for the daily crossword puzzle, says a new study published in the journal Neurology. Researchers at Scotland’s University of Edinburgh reviewed the medical records of more than 600 Scots born in 1936 that were given MRI scans at age 73. “People in their 70s that participated in more physical exercise, including walking several times a week, had less brain shrinkage and other signs of aging in the brain than those that were less physically active,” says study author Alan J. Gow, Ph.D. Surprisingly, the study showed that participating in mentally and socially stimulating activities, such as visiting family and friends, reading or even learning a new language, did little to ward off the symptoms of an aging brain. Study participants will undergo a second MRI scan at age 76, and researchers plan to compare the two scans to see if the links between exercise and better brain health hold up.

Midwife-Led Birth Centers Improve Outcomes

omen that receive care at midwifeled birth centers incur lower medical costs and are less likely to have Caesarean births than women that give birth at hospitals, according to new findings by the American Association of Birth Centers (AABC). The rising number of Cesarean births in the United States (32 percent in 2010, according to the National Centers for Disease Control National Vital Statistics Report) has generated concern due to short- and long-term health implications for women, their newborns and future pregnancies. The AABC study, which included more than 15,500 women that received care in 79 midwife-led birth centers in 33 states from 2007 through 2010, found that fewer than 6 percent of the participants required a Caesarean birth, compared to nearly 24 percent similarly low-risk women cared for in a hospital setting. Birth centers—homelike facilities functioning within the health care system—are based on a wellness model of pregnancy and birth personalized to individual needs. “They are uniquely positioned to provide healthy women and their newborns with maternity care, avoiding unnecessary Caesarean births,” advises AABC President-Elect Lesley Rathbun, a certified nurse midwife and family nurse practitioner. “Americans need to learn about the high-quality care that midwife-led birth centers offer.” Source: American College of NurseMidwives

Natural Oils Lower Cholesterol

ccording to new data presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions, people that switched to cooking with a blend of sesame and rice bran oils experienced noteworthy drops in blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels. The 60-day study in New Delhi, India, involved 300 participants and showed that cooking with a combination of these oils in a variety of ways worked nearly as well as a commonly prescribed high blood pressure medication. natural awakenings

May 2013

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

Honoring Veterans

Helping Troops Return Home to Meaningful Work Colin and Karen Archipley, owners of Archi’s Acres, in Escondido, California, daily honor contributions by America’s armed forces by helping combat vets return home to a fresh start doing meaningful work through their Veterans Sustainable Agriculture Training (VSAT) program. Established in 2007, they can now list 160 ongoing agribusinesses nationwide led by program graduates. “This instills confidence in the veterans as together, we tap into their abilities to adapt and overcome, to take on a challenge and to know themselves and seek improvement,” says Colin, who served with the Marine Corps. This year, the couple is expanding the program by launching 10 one-acre certified-organic hydroponic greenhouses as incubators sparking future VSAT-graduate businesses. For more information, call 800-933-5234, email Karen@ArchisAcres.com or visit ArchisAcres.com.

Veggie Power

Food Revolution Day is May 17 Food Revolution Day, a collaborative effort between the Jamie Oliver Food Foundation in the United States, the Better Food Foundation in the UK and The Good Foundation in Australia, aims to get people around the world talking about real food and food education. Last year, the global day of action encompassed more than 1,000 events and dinner parties among families and friends, school associates, work colleagues and community neighbors in 664 cities in 62 countries. To get involved, visit FoodRevolutionDay.com.

Nearing Equality

Gender Pay Gap is Eroding Recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that women now earn 82 percent as much as men, up from 64 percent in 1980. This latest figure represents median annual earnings for full-time, year-round workers, including self-employed, but not seasonal workers. Progress has also been made in gender segregation within the labor market, with many previously male-dominated fields including law, banking, medicine and civil service jobs such as bus drivers and mail carriers opening up to women. In 2012, President Obama cited his signing of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act as a second-term issue for addressing gender discrimination. 12

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globalbriefs

Golden Years

Decisions, Decisions

Breaking Glass Ceilings Benefits the Bottom Line Women’s ability to make fair decisions amidst multiple and competing interests tend to make them better corporate leaders, researchers have found. A survey of more than 600 board directors showed that women are more likely to consider the rights of others and apply a cooperative approach to decision-making, which can result in better performance for their companies. The study, recently published in the International Journal of Business Governance and Ethics, was conducted by Chris Bart, Ph.D., a professor of strategic market leadership at Canada’s DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University, in Hamilton, Ontario, and Gregory McQueen, senior associate dean at A.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine, in Mesa, Arizona. Male directors, which made up 75 percent of survey participants, prefer to make decisions using rules, regulations and traditional ways of doing business or getting along. Meanwhile, female directors are less curtailed by these parameters and are more likely to try new and unconventional business methods. “We’ve known for some time that companies that have more women on their boards have better results,” explains Bart. “Our findings show that having women on the board is no longer just the right thing, but also the smart thing to do.” Yet women still only comprise approximately 9 percent of corporate board memberships worldwide.

May is Older Americans Month The theme for the 50th annual Older Americans Month 2013 is Unleash the Power of Age, to appreciate and celebrate the vitality and aspirations of older adults and their contributions to our communities. These productive, active and influential members of society share essential talents, wisdom and life experiences with their families, friends and neighbors. Visit OlderAmericansMonth.acl.gov.

natural awakenings

May 2013

ecotip Suspect Sniffs

Pleasing Aromas Harbor Hidden Dangers A special aroma may be pleasing to the senses and psyche, but some perfume fragrances contain dangerous synthetic and toxic ingredients that can enter the body through the skin and lungs. Scientists at the Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, in Spain, found that about one in every 10 people will consequently suffer allergic reactions that include itchy, scaly, discolored, painful skin and asthma attacks. The European Union Scientific Committee on Cosmetic and Non-Food Products warns against their damage to the immune and endocrine systems, and Greenpeace cautions that the harmful ingredients can enter ecosystems. Consumers should check labels and avoid sulfates, phthalates, parabens, neomycin, galaxolide, limonene, linalool, bacitracin, cobalt chloride, tolu balsam (myroxylon pereirae), petrochemicals and propylene glycol, as well as anything referred to as “synthetic” or “artificial” fragrance. Instead, the Natural Perfumers Guild (NPG) promotes plant-based raw materials such as herbs, flowers, spices, leaves, bark and seeds; minerals, such as amber; essential oils; and tincture of vanilla. However, even excessive concentrations of natural ingredients like tea tree, lavender and citrus peel oils may trigger allergic reactions, according to the Environmental Working Group. Moderation is suggested. Look for makers that are members of the NPG or carry the Natural Products Association seal or organic certification by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or nonprofit NSF International. Learn more at NaturalPerfumers.com or npaInfo.org.

Yoga Teacher Training Earn your 200-hour Yoga Alliance Certification right here in West Michigan! Deepen your own personal practice and prepare yourself to teach beginning and intermediate yoga classes from your own heart-felt path. This contemporary and comprehensive approach, deeply rooted in the ancient wisdom of classical yoga, will lead you to become a more balanced, whole and connected individual. For more information: info@CascadeYogaStudio.com 616.464.1610 www.CascadeYogaStudio.com

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www.PrairieYogaTT.com

The Dangers of Dental Amalgams

ental amalgam, a primitive filling material for the teeth, contains 43-54% mercury by weight. Often referred to as silver fillings, this marketing term deceives consumers into believing that amalgam is mainly silver when it is largely mercury with only a minor component of amalgam. Unstable after it is placed into human teeth, mercury is constantly released into the body as mercury vapor, which bio-accumulates. What is not stored in the body is eliminated via human waste and eventually flows into our cities’ wastewater management systems. Dental amalgam accounts for the largest source of mercury in our wastewater. According to the World Alliance for Mercury-Free Dentistry and the Campaign for Mercury Free Dentistry, Dental amalgam accounts for 240 to 300 tons of mercury entering into the market every year. In the U.S., dental offices are the second largest users of mercury, which eventually ends up not only in our water but also in the air. When bodies are cremated, the mercury in the dental amalgam fillings is released into the air. It also gets into the soil through landfills, burials, sludge incineration, and air emissions from dental clinics. Once in the environment, dental mercury converts to a more toxic form-methylmercury. It is this form of mercury that contaminates the fish that we eat. Mercury and other toxic chemicals are accumulating in fish and wildlife at dangerous levels. More than 50,000 U.S. lakes have warnings regarding eating the fish caught there. That’s about 20% of all the significant lakes in the U.S, including the Great Lakes. Mercury warnings are also posted on 7% of all U.S. rivers as well as many costal bays and estuaries. More than 50% of Florida water bodies have mercury warnings, and a large survey found that more than 30% of Floridians have dangerous levels of mercury in their bodies.

by Dr. Kevin Flood, DDS

The fish and wildlife subject to these exposures are showing serious, and sometimes catastrophic, hormonal and reproductive problems related to the accumulation of mercury and other endocrine disrupting chemicals. Affected species include wading birds, bears, alligators, seals, Florida panthers, Beluga and orca whales, minks, and more. The environmental health effects of amalgam are well known, and have recently been reiterated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency: brain damage; and neurological problems especially for children and unborn babies. Due to the high cost of cleaning up this environmental hazard, amalgam is now recognized as “far more expensive than most, possibly all, other dental fillings when including environmental costs.” The mercury in amalgams is a neurotoxin-and promercury dentists are implanting it an inch from the brain. Vulnerable populations such as children, fetuses, hypersensitive individuals, and people with kidney impairments are known to be particularly susceptible to the neurotoxic effects of dental mercury. Amalgam is interchangeable with numerous other filling materials—including resin composites and glass ionomers— that have rendered it completely unnecessary for any clinical situation. In other words, always choose non-mercury fillings. Dr. Kevin Flood, a general dentist located at 4990 Cascade Rd SE in Grand Rapids, has taken the principles of dentistry and interwoven them with alternative healing modalities such as nutrition and manual medicine to create a new paradigm for dentistry. This new paradigm moves beyond drilling and filling and addresses the relationships of dentistry to the rest of the body. See ad page 48.

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natural awakenings

May 2013

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Circle Pines Center Community Spotlight: Looking Back, Moving Forward by Julie Hurley

ich in history with deep roots in Southwest Michigan, Circle Pines Center (CPC) has been a sanctuary for activists of the environmental, social justice and cooperative movements for three-quarters of a century. In fact, Circle Pines, a member-based, non-profit 501(c)3 education and recreation center, is celebrating its 75th Anniversary Jubilee this summer on August 16-18. Program Director Rachel Zegerius, who is one of three full-time resident employees at the center, says that the summer celebration will focus on movement with the theme “Looking back, moving forward.” “We would like to invite the public to come out and learn more about our center and about the co-op movement,” said Zegerius. “We will be holding traditional Circle Pines activities such as international folk dancing, as well as musical performances and a Saturday night banquet.” In keeping with the theme of Movement, and in line with the Circle Pines mission to “teach peace, social justice, environmental stewardship and cooperation,” a Plenary Session has been scheduled, which is titled: “Monarchs: Stories of Migration.” The panel of speakers will include individuals from The Green Valley Samaritans, an organization with the mission to save lives in the Southern Arizona desert. This group of volunteers, many of whom are retired health care providers, scour the desert border and set up hydration stations and provide medical care to the thirsty, injured and dying. “The Samaritans have a traveling collection of ‘found’ objects. These most valuable possessions left behind help share the stories of a search for a better life,” said Zegerius. “They humanize the issue of migration. Local people will also be invited to come and share their stories and experiences of migration.” Following the Jubilee and continuing their 75th Anniversary celebration is Circle Pines’ People’s Institute, to be held Aug. 1924. It, too, will focus on movement and on bringing CPC back to its roots, which originated in the late 1930s. In 1938, several families from the mid-West region, made up of activists from the peace, environmental and co-op movements, were looking for a place where they could get together for the summer to learn more about the co-operative movement, for both business and personal purposes. “During the People’s Institute, we will have an intergenerational week of camp,” said Zegerius. “We will hold educational and recreational workshops, and invite people to share their talents and skills with others. We’re actually still soliciting involvement from people, so please contact us to plug in if you’re interested!” Six days of festivities will include traditional camp activities, such as boating, swimming, and dancing; as well as both formal and informal workshops, including: a two-day intensive Intro to Sociocracy class, Movement Building with Save the Wild UP, Cooperative Action Planning workshops, and daily interactive percussion with Dede Alderman. Planning is still in the works for even more programming, so keep an eye on the CPC website for more details. Also in the works for the summer is CPC’s third annual Buttermilk Jamboree. A “multi-dimensional exploration of music, culture, featuring Rusted Root, Drew Nelson, The Crane Wives, Grupo Aye, Joel Mabus”, to name but a very few, will be held on June 14-16. According to their press release, “festival-

goers can expect nothing less than a full weekend of inspirational musical performances, dance, workshops and sustainably-sourced cuisine from this hidden gem on the Michigan festival scene.” The community is encouraged to purchase tickets ahead of time, as they anticipate the event to sell out quickly. Perhaps CPC’s most distinguishing feature as a camp is their commitment to serving locally-sourced, sustainably grown and/or organic foods. “We source our food from up to 15 local farms; 80 to 90% of the meat we serve is from pasture fed and humanely-raised animals, the remainder is from local family farms. We purchase cheese from Farm County Cheese House, a cooperative effort by Amish farmers in Southern Michigan who grass-feed small herds of cows naturally. The rest of our dairy is sourced locally from Mooville,” said Zegerius. “We make all of our food on-site and from scratch, and can cater to any dietary restriction or food allergy.” CPC is a member-run organization. “Although we have about 150 members who vote two times per year on our budget and other organizational decisions, we are also open to the public. We welcome community members to experience CPC by participating in our programs, and through work-exchanges, called the “Workbee Weekends”, said Zegerius. Workbee Weekends, which require a reservation, encourage the spirit of the co-operative movement. “Come for an afternoon or stay the weekend,” said Zegerius. “In exchange for lodging and food, families or individuals can help us haul fire wood, prepare the grounds for the upcoming music festival, Buttermilk Jamboree, or help with one of many on-going construction projects. We have accommodations ranging from comfortable to rustic, and encourage families and individuals to come on out and get involved.” CPC employs just three full-time staff (who also live on site) and two part-time staff. Though they each have their own title, they all chip in and do what needs to be done to make the center run smoothly. “I am the Program Director, but I also help manage the kitchen, do some cooking and cleaning, and write grants in my spare time. Tom VanHammen is the Center Director and Ron Knutson is our Facilities Manager. We each do a little bit of everything,” said Zegerius. Zegerius said that CPC is able to function because of the principles set forth by the Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers from the UK. These principles are a set of ideals for the operation of co-operatives and have stood the test of time over the past three-quarters of a century. They are as follows: 1. Open, voluntary membership. 2. Democratic governance. 3. Limited return on equity. 4. Surplus belongs to members. 5. Education of members and public in cooperative principles. 6. Cooperation between cooperatives. 7. Concern for community For further information on Circle Pines Center, their 75th Jubilee or the People’s Institute visit www.circlepinescenter.org. For Buttermilk Jamboree info visit www.buttermilkjamboree.org. See ads pages 11 & 26. natural awakenings

May 2013

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atural Awakenings recently launched its own online dating site, which got us wondering… what does it take to find that ideal someone? We decided to call on dating coach Evan Marc Katz, author of I Can’t Believe I’m Buying This Book: A Commonsense Guide to Successful Internet Dating, for advice. Katz, who calls himself a personal trainer for love, coaches successful women in the art of successful dating. He says that while online dating simply makes sense in today’s world, it’s important to do it wisely.

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It’s a perfect marriage of technology and opportunity. There are about 100 million singles in the United States, and everyone has a personal computer and a phone, which allows us to connect immediately with people we’d never meet in the course of our day-to-day life. Think about a woman in her 40s that wants to date and lives in a suburb with kids, has a full-time job and whose friends are all married; it can be hard

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for someone like that to meet men. Online dating allows her to essentially create a love life from scratch. The problem is that most people think they can just go online and succeed, without realizing that there’s an actual skill to it. You can’t just shop for a partner the way you can order up other things on the Internet.

Can you share some tips for singles just starting out? I created an audio series called Finding the One Online, in which I share best practices and some key mistakes to avoid. For example, people sign up for online dating for a month and expect to fall in love in 30 days. That’s like being 50 pounds overweight, signing up for a one-month gym membership and quitting after only losing three pounds because you didn’t meet your goal. The process of finding a good match is more like training for a marathon—you can’t log on and manifest a partner right away by talking to everyone on the site in a month’s time. That’s completely unrealistic, and yet it’s the number one reason people fail, because they expect too much too soon and don’t stick around long enough to learn how to use the system.

What are some best practices once you commit to the process? Don’t write an online profile that’s full of adjectives, activities and clichés. Telling a story that illustrates who you are is much more enticing. Post a picture taken within the past year, have a clever user name and write initial emails that are funny and confident. I like the idea of flirting with a potentially special someone online, moving from email to the phone and making plans for a real-life date over the course of about a week. That’s a good, organic process. My preference is to meet for drinks on a Saturday night, but it doesn’t have to be cocktails if that’s not your scene. I just like the romantic atmosphere of meeting for drinks because dinner dates tend to be too static and coffee dates are too casual. The goal is not to meet tons of people as quickly as possible. The goal is to build up trust and rapport via email and phone communications, so that when you do go on a first date, it’s comfortable and actually feels like a second date. I encourage my clients to go on real dates, not interviews.

Many people make a list of qualities they desire in a partner. What do you think should top that list? The things that sustain a marriage are kindness, consistency, compromise, laughter, shared values and trust. Those should be at the top of your list, instead of height, weight, age or income. The problem is that such qualities may not appear in someone’s online profile or even on the first date. Too many couples make decisions based on chemistry, and that can be a terrible predictor of success for a lasting romantic relationship. Connect with a health conscious, environmentally aware, spiritually evolved friend and mate at NaturalAwakenings Singles.com. Reach Evan Marc Katz at EvanMarcKatz.com. Kim Childs is a writer and creativity coach in Boston. Visit KimChilds.com. natural awakenings

May 2013

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Clutter-Taming Tips

Save Time, Money and Sanity by April Thompson

Labels abound: pack rat, clutter bug and hoarder. Just the thought of confessing that our clutter needs conquering can inspire shame, anxiety and dread. It helps to remember that it’s human to accumulate, divine to purge.

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West Michigan Edition

e’re hardwired to be hunters and gatherers and feather our nests, but you have to consider the life energy you spend maintaining all those things. The trade-off is often huge,” says home organizing expert Barbara Tako, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, author of Clutter Clearing Choices. Seventy percent of Americans feel buried under their clutter and can’t decide what to give up, according to an online poll by award-winning organizer Julie Morgenstern, of New York City. She has found that while the clutter may be physical, the process of shedding it is 80 percent mental. “Decluttering is identifying what is obsolete in your life and releasing it to make room to move forward,” advises the author of Shed your Stuff, Change your Life. “Ask yourself, what am I clearing space for—more family time, a social

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life or inner peace?” That higher goal is a touchstone for what to keep and what to pitch. Following are common clutter-based roadblocks and tips from professional organizers on how to get around them.

I’m so overwhelmed I don’t know where to start. Tako encour-

ages clients to start with the visible clutter, such as junk accumulated in an entryway, and take 10 to 15 minutes to tackle the area. “People are always surprised by how much they can accomplish in a short time,” she comments. Morgenstern recommends making a checklist, starting with the areas with the most obsolete stuff and the least sentimental attachments. “The first one is the hardest, but you’ll probably find a lot of opened space if you can get through a few areas; then there is a cascading effect as you move forward.”

I know I have too much stuff, but it all has sentimental value. Morgenstern recommends us-

ing tools to manage memories, such as photographing an object that represents a person, and then using that photo as a contact icon on your phone. She suggests considering, “Is this the best representation of that person or time of my life, or just another example?”

I might need this someday.

Tako encourages people to enlist a clutter buddy, “an objective set of eyes who will set you straight when you hold up a skirt that’s out of style.” Morgenstern suggests asking, “What is more important to me… this object I don’t have any immediate need for or the space I’ll have by getting rid of it?”

I don’t have time to declutter now. Morgenstern acknowledges most people are “time-starved”, and cleaning out their closets is the last thing they want to do with precious

free time. Yet clutter costs us time and money because, “You end up losing things, wasting valuable real estate and replacing things you forgot you had,” she notes. It also hinders our ability to focus and process information, because visual clutter divides and competes for a person’s limited attention span, according to a recent study by the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute. For more motivation, imagine the joy of finding buried treasure. Morgenstern reports that nearly all of her clients find some form of funds, whether uncashed checks, objects with resale value or cash.

I sorted piles a few months ago and now they’re back. Los

Angeles organizer and blogger John Trosko encourages people to be upfront with loved ones about holidays and special occasions, asking that they curtail gifts and instead give non-tangible forget-me-nots like gift certificates or favorite services. Trosko also suggests making a list before shopping and steer-

ing clear of megastores to keep impulse spending in check. Tako and Trosko both discourage purchasing “unitaskers” such as a salad spinner that takes up significant space but rarely get used. Another good rule of thumb is, “one in, one out,” discarding something every time we purchase a new item. Even armed with the best decluttering tips, the process can seem daunting. Morgenstern encourages us to suspend self-judgment while weeding through possessions and keep remembering our higher goals. “Your stuff is a reflection of who you are and what you aspire to,” she notes. “It’s a challenge to get it all in alignment, but an incredible opportunity, too.” To find a nearby professional organizer, contact the National Association of Professional Organizers at napo.net. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

Find Good Homes for Clutter

ou’ve done the hard work of decluttering. Now what? In the past, options were limited to a garage sale or local landfill. Today, we have countless ways to give new life to old things, whether selling them online, donating to charities for a tax deduction, supplying needed materials to schools or returning items to the manufacturers for recycling. Here are some more ideas.

Books: Consider joining the free PaperbackBookSwap.com. Each book mailed between members earns a credit redeemable for other books posted on the site. Or, donate books at BetterWorldBooks.com to help fund world literacy. Clothing: Tried-and-true organiza-

tions like The Salvation Army, Planet Aid and Dress for Success always welcome clothing donations, while public and private clothes swaps present a fun, social way to thin out closets and

zip code to find local retailers that ecycle. Sell working electronics through eBay.com or IOffer.com. Even small items like old phone chargers often sell easily online.

acquire some signature pieces. Attendees bring a minimum number of items that are arranged by organizers by type and size. Then, when the signal is given, participants excitedly rush to try on new-to-them pieces that catch their eye. Meetup.com lists local community swaps; make it a party theme and invite friends.

Electronics: Most communities hold

spring e-waste drives to collect old electronics for responsible disposal and sponsor year-round drop-off sites. Otherwise, search GreenerGadgets.org by

Eyeglasses: Millions of pairs of eyeglasses are discarded annually while millions of people in developing countries need vision correction. Donate old prescription or out-ofstyle specs to a nonprofit like One Sight (OneSight.org) or New Eyes (NewEyesForTheNeedy.org) that will refurbish and send them to healthcare missions around the world. Odds and Ends: What about that

never-used yogurt maker or crimping iron? Local chapters of The Freecycle Network (Freecycle.org) participating in this 9-million-member virtual community facilitate posting any item, large or small, to give away to neighboring members that agree to pick it up at the donor’s door.

natural awakenings

May 2013

by N’ann Harp

When early colonists first sailed to the New World in the 1620s, they brought along their cherished European honey bees, introducing Apis mellifera to the North American continent. Here, while sowing the seeds of statehood, our pioneer forebears continued to practice the customs of rural England, where honey bees had long been treated as family members. “Telling the bees” about births, marriages and deaths and including them in special occasions was part of the fabric of family life.

oday, small-scale, organic beekeeping is making a timely comeback, with renewed interest in and respect for these lost arts from a simpler time. “I knew nothing about beekeeping four years ago,” says Ronald Weisburg, owner of Lee Bees, in North Fort Myers, Florida, who credits his wife Cindy, a Master Gardener, with launching the retirees into their latest occupation. The pair now enthusiastically tend 23 hives and Ron is two years into the master beekeeper program at his local Cooperative Extension. Humans share with honey bees an ancient, intimate and symbiotic relationship of mutual benefit. Although the fossil records indicate that honey bees were thriving on the planet for an estimated 70 million years prior to the appearance of man, human beings and these highly-evolved social insects quickly developed an enduring affinity for each other. Our interconnectedness goes back at least 10,000 years, when humans began to record their honey-hunting activities in charcoal and chalk pictographs on cave walls. Honey was a valuable food source for our ancestors and they collected it avidly. As the hunter-gatherer societies settled into selfsustaining family groups, small garden plots became a familiar center of agriculture and social stability. Honey bees adapted to the increasingly organized agricultural system, attracted to the flowering fruit and vegetable crops that sustained their own hive and 22

West Michigan Edition

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honey production needs. In return, the bees enhanced pollination and increased harvest yields for their human partners. Over the intervening millennia, this interspecies friendship has evolved into the practices of modern beekeeping, generating dozens of crop-specific industries. Roughly 100 of the world’s favorite food crops are now directly reliant upon honeybee pollination, which translates to about 40 percent of the human diet. Today, however, the very capacity for crossspecies cooperation that gave rise to the humanhoneybee relationship has also given rise to a host of unintended consequences, including a phenomenon dubbed Colony Collapse Disorder, in which resident honey bees simply vanish from hives. Something is seriously wrong and scientists are stumped. Some observers call the situation the “perfect storm” of circumstances, which includes the

proliferation of pesticide and chemical use in mono-crop production; poor queen breeding practices; loss of genetic diversity; immune system weaknesses; global trade expansion, introducing alien pests against which local bees haven’t had time to develop resistance; mystery viruses; and the usual pests, threats and challenges of sustaining healthy, resilient colonies that can produce strong queen bees. Hope for saving the world’s hardest-working pollinator may lie in finding ways to dramatically increase honeybee research funding, which is being decreased in some states, due to budget cuts. The nonprofit The Foundation for the Preservation of Honeybees has been established as a conduit for honey bee research funds. Some companies, like Häagen-Dazs, have also set up donation sites. A powerfully positive alternative action, encouraged by under-funded

researchers, is for private individuals to take up small-scale beekeeping. “An army of amateur beekeepers could become part of an eventual solution by helping to collect field data in a wide array of microclimates and conditions,” suggests David Tarpy, Ph.D., the state apiculturist and an associate professor of entomology at North Carolina State University. Renewed popularity of the English garden hive structure harkens back to times when women were often the mistresses responsible for family hives. Readily available in easily assembled kits from beekeeping catalogs, this lighter hive holds fewer frames than heavier, commercial hives. It is often sold with a gabled, copper-roof section or adorned with finials, making it a delightful visual addition to a bee-friendly backyard or rooftop urban garden. State-funded cooperative extension programs across the country have the scoop on beekeeping and honey production, providing free

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information and regular classes. The largest bee school in the United States, in Asheville, North Carolina, recently hosted 300 students for a multi-weekend program and turned away dozens, due to lack of space. Remarks Tarpy, “These are encouraging signs that many are answering the call.” For information and to locate a local beekeeping association or club, visit HoneybeePreservation.org/resources. html. Secure a garden hive from BrushyMountainBeeFarm.com. Connect with Lee Bees in North Fort Myers, FL, at 239-656-0781 or BeeVoyager@comcast.net. N’ann Harp is a beekeeping activist, freelance writer and founder of Friends of Honeybees, living in Asheville, NC. Contact her at Nann@FriendsOfHoney bees.org or info@TheSpicewood Farm.com.

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Aging Gracefully It’s No Mystery: We Now Know How by Kathleen Barnes

ost of us like to think that we’ll be vibrant, energetic, smart and yes, gorgeous, until the end of our lives. This isn’t an unattainable fantasy—even if past poor lifestyle choices may have tarnished some much-anticipated Golden Years. Fortunately, it’s never too late (or too early) to make key small changes that will immediately and profoundly influence our ability to live long and healthy lives. Experts recommend that a handful of simple, scientifically validated health strategies will help us age gracefully and beautifully. “Most of us are living longer, but not necessarily better,” advises Dr. Arlene Noodleman, medical codirector of Age Defy Dermatology and Wellness, in Campbell, California. “Many people face decades of chronic debilitating disease, but you can minimize or even eliminate that period of life and maximize health. It’s all about your lifestyle.”

Rules to Live By

Whether the goal is disease prevention, retaining a sharp mind, weight control, balancing hormones, maintaining good posture or supporting glowing skin, all the experts Natural Awakenings asked agree on a core strategy that can extend life and improve its quality in later years: Take a walk. Or, undertake another enjoyable form of outdoor exercise for about 30 minutes a day. 24

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Greet the sun. Exposing bare skin to sunlight for 15 minutes three times a week allows natural production of vitamin D. Researchers at Boston University, Harvard University and others attest that sufficient doses of the vitamin help prevent cancer, heart disease, diabetes, depression, obesity, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, relieve menopausal symptoms and support longevity. Drink plenty of water. Hydration is key to cell health and overall proper body functions. Aim for consuming one ounce of water every day for every two pounds of body weight. Eat a healthy diet. This means lots of vegetables and fish, some lean meats and poultry and moderate amounts of fruits and grains for weight control; abundant antioxidants to prevent deterioration that leads to chronic disease; and vital nutrients to support and extend life. Avoid sugars in all forms, simple carbohydrates, processed foods and for many, wheat and wheat gluten, especially for those with excess abdominal fat. Get a good night’s sleep. Eight hours is more than beauty sleep. Studies consistently report that it’s essential for energy and the prevention of a host of diseases, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer (Nurses’ Health Study; plus UK research in Diabetes Care, the European Heart Journal and British Journal of Cancer). Regular turning in and waking times, plus sleeping in a dark room, are important to optimize melatonin production; it is not true that we need less sleep as we age. Use the right supplements. Take a high-quality multivitamin every day, preferably an organic product based on whole foods for optimum nutrition. Fish oil is also essential for nearly everyone for heart, brain and joint health. Vitamin D is critical, especially in the winter months and for darkerskinned people that need greater sun exposure to manufacture it. Also add curcumin; according to numerous clinical studies, including those from Baylor University and the University of California-Los Angeles, it can help prevent and even reverse cancer, Alzheimer’s, osteoarthritis, skin diseases and digestive disorders.

Prevent Dementia

Caregivers for parents or other relatives with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia are often concerned about experiencing such regression themselves. “There is some evidence that a tendency to memory loss can be inherited, but in any case, there are things you can do to prevent and even possibly reverse memory loss,” counsels Noodleman. Reducing stress is the best way to keep a sharp mind, she says. “Chronic stress inhibits the cerebral cortex (the brain’s gray matter, responsible for higher mind function, including memory), resulting in a lack of judgment and other impaired brain function. So, manage stress and memory function will improve.” Deep breathing and increased oxygenation of the blood helps relieve stress and deliver nutrients to brain cells. Practicing yoga postures like the shoulder stand and headstand, or exercises using an inversion table, for just a few minutes a day can improve circulation to the brain and may help keep brain cells intact. “It’s important to keep brain cells healthy and alive by keeping blood sugars and blood pressure under control,” urges Doctor of Osteopathy Lisa Ganghu, an internal medicine specialist and clinical assistant professor at New York University’s Langone Medical Center, in New York City. High blood pressure and diabetes are risk factors for strokes and mini-strokes that result in brain cell impairment, she says, adding, “Some research even suggests that caffeine may improve memory and focus.” “Use it or lose it,” concludes Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, an integrative medical authority from Kona, Hawaii, and author of Real Cause, Real Cure. Extensive research shows that challenging the brain with puzzles and language courses, having an active social life and getting regular exercise are all related to maintaining optimum brain health. “People who age gracefully are physically and mentally active,” adds Noodleman.

Prevent Disease

A proper diet is a good place to start to take control. Ganghu recommends largely plant-based diets, like the Medi-

terranean, to keep common repercussions of aging at bay. Teitelbaum contravenes traditional medicine’s stance and says that most people don’t need to worry about salt intake, even if they suffer from high blood pressure, noting, “Research shows that people that follow the national guidelines for salt intake tend to die younger. Instead, it’s important to keep magnesium and potassium levels up by adding 200 milligrams of magnesium and 500 milligrams of potassium to your supplement regimen every day.” To prevent and control diabetes, Teitelbaum emphasizes, “Avoid sugar; it causes premature cell aging that affects all body systems.” He explains that excess sugar and its byproducts age and stiffen cells. Dozens of studies directly link sugar and aging, including a PLoS Genetics study from the University of Montreal. (Also see Tinyurl.com/ GlycationExplained.) Reproducing cancer cells typically don’t die as other cells in the human body are programmed to. Recent research by Baylor University and others based on the Human Genome Project strongly suggests that curcumin taken as a dietary supplement (400 mg a day or more) can persuade cancer cells to commit suicide and stop their wild and potentially fatal reproduction. Ganghu further recommends limiting exposure to environmental toxins from sources such as common garden and household chemicals and agricultural spraying (choose organic for safety).

Weight Control

A large body of research from institutions such as the National Institute on Aging and the International Longevity Center shows that avoiding obesity and managing weight is paramount for longevity, as well as for preventing many of the diseases associated with aging. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that people with a body mass index (BMI) over 35 are at an 18 percent higher risk of earlier death from all causes than those that maintain a normal body weight (BMI of 25 or under). Hormones can be a factor in weight gain for perimenopausal and menopausal women, says Ganghu, so it is important to be tested. She also

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natural awakenings

May 2013

notes, “A loss of muscle mass due to aging can affect weight because muscle tissue is metabolically more active than fat tissue, creating a vicious circle.” She recommends strength training to improve muscle strength and mass. Typically, two 20-minute sessions a week with moderate weights are enough to create “Michelle Obama arms,” says Kathy Smith of Park City, Utah, a DVD fitness entrepreneur and a spokesperson for the International Council on Active Aging.

Good Posture

“We spend a lot of time driving, working on computers and other activities with our arms in front of us. This causes chest muscles to contract and become tight as we age, drawing the head forward and rounding the spine, which produces a pronounced slouch,” says Smith, author of Feed Muscle, Shrink Fat Diet. Bending, stretching and strength training strengthens the shoulder and back muscles that help us stay upright. Smith recommends a “walking desk”, essentially a treadmill with a board across the arms where a laptop can rest, and the user walks at only one to two miles per hour. “You’re moving, not sitting, and that is really important,” says Smith. Yoga postures like the cobra and the bow are also helpful, as are visits to a chiropractor or other structural therapist.

Healthy Skin

“Your skin is a roadmap of your overall health,” says Dr. Rick Noodleman, a dermatologist who practices anti-aging medicine in California’s Silicon Valley with his wife. He explains that skin aging is caused by the three D’s: deflation,

Whole-Body Dry Brushing

descent and deterioration. All of them can be reversed. Deflation is the loss of volume and moisture, which can be offset by proper internal hydration, healthy nutrition and good moisturizers. “People can make new collagen well into their 80s and even 90s,” he says. Deterioration is the loss of skin tone and elasticity that can accompany stress, poor diet and lack of exercise. Noodleman recommends regular exfoliation of skin on the face (an economical home facial with baking soda and water or eggs is high on his list) and dry brushing the whole body. He also notes that new laser treatments, acupressure facelifts and other spa treatments can help temporarily minimize wrinkles and bring back a youthful glow. It’s not hard to be vibrant, healthy and energetic at any age if one is living a healthy lifestyle. “I feel like I am 30. I expect to feel that way for the rest of my life,” says the 60-something Teitelbaum. “Of course, I’m not at the beach in a Speedo,” he quips. “Who wants to look 20? There is also a certain beauty in age.” Kathleen Barnes is a freelance writer, book author and blogger. Her most recent title is 10 Best Ways to Manage Stress. Learn more at KathleenBarnes.com.

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Dry brushing stimulates oil production, circulation that tightens skin and lymphatic drainage for detoxification and improved immune function. It also exfoliates. Using a moderately stiff brush with a long handle, start with the feet and vigorously brush eight long, smooth strokes in each of the listed areas, always brushing toward the heart: Soles of the feet Tops of the feet Calves Shins Both sides of lower legs Upper thighs Inner thighs Backs of thighs Buttocks Lower back Sides (love handles) Belly Breasts (very gently) Chest Palms of hands Forearms, front and back Upper arms, inside, outside and back Upper back and shoulders Neck (brush toward the face in this instance only) Face (use a softer cosmetic brush or similar device) Source: Teresa Tapp, an exercise physiologist and nutritional counselor, in Safety Harbor, FL

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Coffee Klatch Redemption New research from the Harvard School of Public Health confirms that drinking two or three cups of coffee a day can help deal with the following risks later in life. Alzheimer’s – may slow or stop the formation of beta-amyloid plaque. (University of South Florida, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease) Cancer – antioxidant properties may lower the risk of hormonally related cancers like endometrial, aggressive prostate and estrogen-negative breast cancers. (University of Massachusetts, Nutrients) Diabetes – helpful for short-term blood glucose control; long-term use increases the body’s level of adinopectin, a hormone that assists in blood sugar control and insulin production. (Kyushu University, Japan, Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine) Heart attack – moderate use has been associated with a slightly lower risk in women. (Tohoku University, Japan, The Journal of Nutrition) Stroke – up to four cups [maximum] a day may lower the risk of stroke. (Kyung Hee University, Korea, metaanalysis, Korean Journal of Family Medicine)

FEELING STUCK? CREATE A SENSE OF FREEDOM FROM LIMITING BELIEFS INTERFERENCE AND ENERGETIC BLOCKS BY SIMPLY CHANGING A FEW MIND AND BODY CONNECTIONS JOAN E. HOFMAN, MA, LPC 660 CASCADE W. PKWY. SE SUITE 245 GRAND RAPIDS, MI 616-974-5594 JOANHOFMAN@TDS.NET WWW.JOANHOFMAN.COM

Caveat: Excessive amounts of caffeine can also cause health issues, especially as we age. Consult with a health professional to determine usage appropriate to the individual.

natural awakenings

May 2013

Community Spotlight by Amanda Merritt

Heavenly Healings Holistic Health Services

ith enthusiasm in her eyes, Jodi Jenks, owner of Heavenly Healings Holistic Health Services, sat down in her in-home business and explained what it is that excites her most about being a part of the holistic health industry. “I love raising people’s awareness and helping them to find that unique pathway that’s right for them, discovering that pathway with them and seeing the transformations in them.” For 17 years, Jenks has been working in the holistic health industry, providing holistic health services, products and classes on Reiki and Essential Oils. She has been an advocate for the industry from her very first experience with it through the process that has brought her to where she has landed now and continues to even seek further education in both Energy Touch® and Naturopathy. Jenks thrives on helping people understand that holistic health really focuses on finding the unique pathway for each individual to bring peace and balance to all aspects of the person (mind, body and spirit) as a whole. She stressed that the pathway will be different for each person, which is why her individualized style of working is so important. “Heavenly Healings Holistic Health Services is unique because of the energetic, intuitive work that I do with each client, customizing each session based on their needs through a sense of what’s needed,” said Jenks. After Jenks’ family began seeing a homeopathic doctor over 25 years ago, she continuously witnessed much safer, alternative options to good health opposed to the Western medicine and procedural work route so many have become accustomed to taking. One after another, her own family members were utilizing homeopathy and seeing such positive results so quickly, that it sparked her interest and captured her passion for holistic health. Jenks’ homeopathic doctor, Mary Hardy, quickly became a mentor and she began to dive into what became her career and much of what she centers the way she lives around. Admitting that the doctors of today are not being trained for this “toxic society”, Jenks is encouraged by the steps people are taking toward a more holistic lifestyle. “The awareness is getting

out there. More and more people are looking for alternatives. The demand is steadily increasing.” Because of the toxic society, it is important to look for alternative solutions to the treatment of the issues we face, and Jenks is more than happy to help her clients in that process and to educate them along the way. When it comes to nature’s living energy, essential oils, in Jenks’ practice, she proudly provides only the best essential oils, Young Living Essential Oils. Unlike other products, every essential oil Young Living distills or sources is held to an incredibly high standard, requiring that it has the “optimal naturally-occurring blend of constituents to maximize the desired effect”. In keeping with her pathway to live as toxinfree as possible, Jenks wanted to be positive that she was offering the purest products possible. Constantly adding to her resume of education and practices over the years, Jenks currently offers Reflexology, Iridology, Body Work, Reiki sessions and classes, Energy Touch, Essential Oils Therapies, Ionic Foot Baths, Ear Coning and more, with the potential for even more in the near future. Upon meeting her, it is quickly obvious that she has found her calling and is passionately seeking to help others discover their pathway to good, holistic health. She has plans and dreams for where to take her business next as her passion and the opportunities continue to align more and more as they have thus far. For more information, contact Heavenly Healings Holistic Health Services of Grand Rapids at 616-443-4225 or visit www.heavenlyhealings.org. NAN members receive 15% off all products and services and 20% off all classes. See ad page 7 & 45. Amanda Merritt is a recent graduate of Cornerstone University with a degree in Communication Arts and Journalism/Public Relations. You can contact her at mandi. merritt@hotmail.com.

People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. ~Maya Angelou

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inspiration

Listening to Inner Wisdom

INSTINCTS TO HEED

by Dr. Judith Orloff

istening to our instincts can help us stay safe and deal better with life-or-death decisions. Making the most of the wisdom of this inner voice also enables us to live a more satisfying life in the moment. How do we choose which gut feelings to trust? Here are five messages we’ll be glad we paid attention to.

“Something feels wrong in my body.” Listening to our body’s subtle

signals is a critical part of exercising an intuitive sense. The body is a powerful intuitive communicator, delivering early warning signs when anything feels off, weak or just not right, so that we can address it sooner, rather than later.

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“I’m in danger.” Social conditioning

has helped to create unconscious beliefs that can cause flawed first impressions and ill-advised snap decisions; it’s vital that we check our subjective feelings against mental rationalizations. If some person or situation feels untrustworthy, pause to pay attention, even if the feeling might later be proved inaccurate.

“I want to help.” Evolution has inher-

ently enabled us to quickly “read” faces and other emotional signals. For example, the sympathy instinct nudges us to change the subject when wedding talk makes a newly divorced colleague cringe or general conversation about past rough landings makes an airplane seatmate

nervous—subtle gestures that can make a big difference in another’s day.

“I know how to do this.” When tempted to overthink something we know how to do, try a little therapeutic distraction, such as saying the alphabet backwards when a yoga teacher leads the class into a dreaded handstand. Briefly engaging the mind with something other than the task at hand can leave our instincts free to do their job and enjoy the fulfillment that diligent practice has made possible. “This is it!” Most people have a great “I just knew it was right” story. It might be about the time they first spotted their sweetheart or crossed the threshold of their new house. When intuition signals that we’ve found something or someone truly right for us, the choice often becomes easy. It feels healthy and good, without resistance or conflict. Using our instincts helps lead us to smart choices that improve our quality of life. Judith Orloff, M.D., is the author of the international bestseller Second Sight, upon which these tips are based. An assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California-Los Angeles, Orloff synthesizes the pearls of traditional medicine with cuttingedge knowledge of intuition and energy medicine. For more inspiration, visit DrJudithOrloff.com.

natural awakenings

May 2013

healingways

The Stress Epidemic: The 10-Second Solution by Elle Ingalls

ccelerated lifestyles. Information overload. Financial uncertainty. Frightening news in the media. These are all contributing factors in what experts are calling a national stress epidemic. More and more children and adults alike are showing symptoms of the fight-or-flight stress response. Anxiety, anger, insomnia, depression. Frequent illness, overeating, substance abuse, interpersonal conflict. All of these conditions are aggravated when the mind perceives threats and the adrenal glands repeatedly release adrenaline, cortisol and other stress response hormones. For years as an executive, I followed my stressful day at work with meditation, prayer, walking, jogging, and yoga. Still, I was often irritable and impulsive. I would get sick every holiday season, and I had stress-induced eczema on my hand. After years of study in physiology and performance, I made some personal discoveries in 2010 that enabled me to change how I react to stressful situations. I realized that I was almost constantly under the influence of stress hormones. And, I figured out a method to stop my cycle of stress using simple mental and physical tools. No drugs. No strenuous effort. I define stress as an event that causes the primitive part of your brain to signal the fight-or-flight stress response. A few seconds after that fear signal goes out, your adrenal glands release a flood of stress hormones called catecholamines, primarily adrenaline. Later on, there’s a second flood of hormones called gluco-corticoids, including cortisol. Both floods cause major damage to your health and to your ability to function mentally and physically. Let’s say you’re feeling tired, and your boss calls you in and criticizes your work. You feel a pang of anxiety, anger or shame. Those emotions are the first signs that stress hormones are on their way. Most people just let the stress response take its course. We think, it’s natural to feel lousy for awhile after something like that happens. But feeling lousy is neither healthy nor helpful, and it can be avoided.

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If stress response hormones are released, the effects vary from person to person. Some blush. Some turn pale. Your palms may sweat. You may feel tension in your gut and your shoulders. Posture and manner can droop or turn aggressive. You may need to go to the bathroom. You might not realize it, but your cognitive mind and your memory are shutting down. Once the primitive parts of your brain are involved, your self-awareness and control plummet. This is when you say or do things you regret later. Or you go blank while taking a test or making a speech. Then you don’t sleep well. Next day, you wake up tired. What’s happening is you are triggering the stress response repeatedly. It takes the male body up to nine hours to dissipate the stress hormones out of the cells and return the ph to pre-stress levels. For females, it takes up to twenty-four hours. Few women are ever out of the stress cycle. To break the cycle, you first must recognize the warning signs: the first hint of anxiety, anger, annoyance or shame. Then you have ten seconds or less to lower your pulse by calming your mind and body. Common stress interrupters include smiling, and changing your posture and breathing. Or snapping a loose rubber band on your wrist to remind yourself that this is no reason to trigger the stress hormones. Or you can try asking yourself questions to take your mind off a negative track. There are many tools and techniques available. When you stay free of the residual effects of stress hormones, you will think more clearly, remember more, stay healthier, and approach your day with a new confidence and optimism. It all hinges on staying calm and preventing the release of stress hormones in those critical first seconds of the stress response. Elle Ingalls is founder and CEO of Pressure-Free Living. She teaches her method of stress management for optimal mind/body performance through online e-courses, retreats and coaching for individuals and groups. www. Pressure-Free.com. See ad on page 26.

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West Michigan Edition

o secure optimum performance, maximize lifespan and maintain the warranty of vehicles, knowledgeable drivers follow the regular maintenance needs recommended in the owner’s manual. Similarly, many health practitioners, integrative physicians and chiropractors suggest that periodically cleansing the body’s inside works—flushing toxins and enabling the digestive process and organs like the liver and kidney to rest and reset—aids in maintaining, restoring and optimizing health. Whether seeking a dramatic cleanup and clearing out or a simple tune-up, a natural, detoxifying cleanse eliminates accumulations of unwanted substances. Doctor of Chiropractic and Nutritionist Linda Berry, of Albany, California, and Brenda Watson, ReNew Life founder and a certified nutritional consultant from Clearwater, Florida, are recognized authorities on the subject. Berry’s Internal Cleansing and Watson’s series of six books on digestive health that began with Renew Your Life stress that the process may be both

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a missing link in Western nutrition and a key to returning Americans to health. They both believe that specific medical concerns—including allergies, arthritis, elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders and body pains—are directly related to toxicity, which responds well to gentle detoxification. Their suggestions for reducing the overload based on 60 years of combined experience include eliminating pro-inflammatory processed foods, alcohol, coffee, refined sugars and bad fats; increasing daily intake of healthy, organic, fiber-rich foods; and gently cleansing at least twice a year, using a natural approach.

How to Begin

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the onset of spring and fall suggest appropriate times for internal cleansing. Although strictly protein drink fasts are not encouraged, a minimum of 20 grams of high-quality protein should be consumed daily. Read labels and pick a sugarless protein powder.

A natural, non-chlori A simple one-day, “Eighty percent nated water enema using weekend or seven-day of cancer cases simple home apparatus cleanse for experienced available at local stores or inexperienced inare caused by can also be incorporated dividuals begins every morning with a total body environmental and into the regimen, as “An enema dry skin brushing prior food carcinogens.” necessary, [initially] affects only the to showering, and then intestine’s lower third, drinking a minimum of ~ National Cancer 10, eight-ounce glasses of Institute and the National so hold in the room-temwater throughout the day. Institute of Environmental perature water for five to 15 minutes, if possible,” This includes a tasty green Health Sciences suggests Berry. juice drink, followed by an eight-ounce glass of What to Avoid water for breakfast, lunch and a healthy Safe, over-the-counter solutions for coafternoon snack. Watson’s favorite green lon cleansing generally promote colon cleansing recipe consists of liquefying health and can nicely supplement a one-and-a-half cucumbers, two stalks fast. Avoid products that contain senna of celery, half a Granny Smith apple, a leaf and cascara sagrada, which are handful of spinach or any other type of potent laxatives. green vegetable, a few sprigs of parsley Watson and Berry don’t recomand a tiny piece of lemon. mend rigid “crash and burn” cleanses, Then, an hour after breakfast and such as those consisting solely of lunch, sip a cup of herbal tea, take two protein drinks or raw juices or lemon or three capsules of spirulina and two capsules of omega-3. For dinner, liquefy juice and water with maple syrup and cayenne pepper. “It’s better to cleanse one teaspoon of red miso paste in eight gently with fresh green juices with ounces of hot water and add five sprigs meals consisting of brown rice and of wakame seaweed. either raw, lightly steamed or roasted “To fight hunger during the day, vegetables,” counsels Watson. drink more water with lemon or ginger, “Any detox program, if followed warm herbal tea or green juices,” adby eating whatever you want, not only vises Watson. doesn’t work, it has consequences,” To increase fiber intake, Berry sugadds Berry, who strongly advises easing gests placing ingredients in a VitaMix back into a sensible diet after a cleanse. or the more affordable NutriBullet, She notes that one client became ill which pulverizes everything added, from breaking her detox with a meal of even whole flax seeds. Juicers, which are harder to clean after using, separate barbeque ribs and beer. the liquid from the fibrous pulp, which human intestines need to create at least Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer two daily bowel movements. Add oat or for Natural Awakenings. She writes on why we are better together at rice bran, citrus pectin or other natural ItsAllAboutWe.com. fibers as a bulk agent.

Umeboshi Tea Umeboshi plums, termed “the king of alkaline foods”, are a species of apricots from Japan. A pickled fruit, they have a sour and salty flavor. Drinking umeboshi tea alkalizes the blood and works to relieve fatigue, nausea and indigestion while restoring energy. Makes 1 cup. Drink one a day for one month. 1 umeboshi plum, rinse 1 cup purified water ½ tsp Japanese kuzu powder 2 or 3 drops tamari or gluten-free tamari 1. Remove seed from the plum. Cut remaining plum into small pieces or mash. 2. Place plum pieces, water and kuzu in a small sauce pan. Stir or whisk to dissolve the powder. It will look like milk with pink bumps. 3. Stir while heating at medium temperature for 3 to 5 minutes or until liquid turns clear and appears a little thicker. Turn off heat. 4. Add tamari drops and stir gently. Drink while hot. Source: Recipe courtesy of Brenda Watson.

natural awakenings

May 2013

Bring NAN to work! We offer discounts to companies that buy NAN cards for their employees as part of a wellness benefits package.

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

For More Information on How You Can Become a NAN ~ Network Provider or a NAN Card Member, contact Natural Awakenings Magazine at 616-656-9232 or NAN@NaturalWestMichigan.com. ADA Journey Home Yoga & Health - 20% off any one “New to You” class or service; 15% off any one class or service you’ve used before. Keeki Pure & Simple - 10% off

ALLENDALE Heart’s Journey Wellness Center - 10% off Yoga Classes, 20% off Yoga Therapy or Counseling

Perry’s Place, LLC - Save 10% on regular priced items

DELTON

EAST GRAND RAPIDS Seva Yoga, LLC - 10% off Any Regular Price Class Package - 12 or 24 Series Gaslight Family Chiropractic - 25% off All Services, 10% off Retail Merchandise

Self Realization Centre - 5% off

FRUITPORT

BATTLE CREEK

Fruitport Chiropractic - 10% off

Pressure-Free Living, LLC- 20% off Coaching and Retreats. 20% off E-Courses on Website.

BIG RAPIDS Debra K. Rozek, Professional Astrologer 40% Discount off the full price of astrological service rates posted on website. Northland Counseling Services, PLLC 20% off on Reiki & Tibetan Bowl Healing and on Workshops provided by Bonnie Cripe

CALEDONIA Healthy For Life - 20% off Organic Element Salon - 20% off Products and Services Thrive Chiropractic Center, PLC - $25 New Patient Evaluation. 20% off on chiropractic adjustments and massage

CEDAR SPRINGS Frequency Apps - $25 off Any Order of $100 or More Kin of Hope Natural Health - 15% off any regular priced services

Expressions of Grace Yoga – 10% off 10 or More Class Packages for Current Students. New Students receive 20% off 10 or more Class packages

Subtle Energies - 20% off 1st Level Usui Reiki & Urevia

BATH

Elder & Sage: Herbs and Natural Remedies - 20% off a 1-Hour Initial Consultation or 10% off Products

Forgiveness Lady - 50% off Workshops 25% off Retreats Global Infusion - $5 off a Purchase of $25 or more Grand Rapids Natural Health - 20% off all office visits

Morea Chiropractic Wellness Center - 20% discount off regular rates/fees.

GRAND HAVEN

Harmony ‘n Health - $10 off a One Hour Massage; $5 off for each Colon Therapy Session Harmony Veterinary & Wellness Center 20% off Health Path, LLC - 20% off Heavenly Healings Holistic Health Services - 15% off All Products and Services. 20% off All Classes

Health Hutt - 20% off Supplements

GRAND RAPIDS A Healing Touch Therapeutic Massage 20% off Aesthetica Image Group: Amy Worst 20% off Initial Color Service, 10% off for returning clients

Holistic Care Approach - 15% off first visit for NAET, first visit with Osteopathic Doctor, or first Facial Treatment (not applicable with other discounts). Home Grown Hydroponix - 10% off entire bill

Burcon Chiropractic - 20% off on Exams, Adjustments and X-Rays (if needed)

Hop Scotch Children’s Store - 15% off One Item per visit

Center for Healthy Living - 20% off

Horizen Hydroponics - 20% off *not to be combined with monthly sales or package deals.

CJ’s Studio Salon - 10% off Any Natural or Organic Haircare Products

Hypnosis Works - 20% off

Clear Connections Chiropractic - 50% off New Patient Evaluation and 20% off All Office Visits Including Massage dlh concepts - $5000 off the cost of New Home Construction East West Karate - $30 off / Month on 1-Year Program

Integrative Nutritional Therapies - 20% off Initial Computerized Health Assessments and 10% Off Follow-up Assessments Institute of Sanative Arts - Massage = 50% off 1st visit & $10 off returning visits. Yoga = 1st yoga class free. $5 off pass card. School = $150 off full tuition price Irv Marcus Acupuncture - Initial Visit $65 (reg. $100), $5 off Returning Visits It Works! Gwendolyn Guyton - 20% off 37 May 2013

natural awakenings

Visit www.NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com to learn all the details about each of these providers discounts and stipulations.

Visit www.NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com to see all the providers in your area. Jan Atwood, LLC - 10% off First 3 Appointments; 5% Off Additional Appointments for Reiki, CranioSacral Therapy and Raindrop Technique Kimberly Gleason Coaching - 25% off London Studios (Salon): Ashley Woods 15% off Making Thyme Kitchen - Buy 2 Entrees Get 1 Free Mark’s Mattress Direct – 15% off Any Restonic or Clare Bedding Mattress Set Midwest Massage & Salon II - 15% off Moondrop Herbals - $5.00 off $25.00 or more in purchases - excludes consignment items Moxie Beauty & Hair Parlor - Free 8oz of Onesta Shampoo & 8oz Conditioner with Organic Color Systems Service

GREENVILLE

LAKEVIEW

The Health Store - 10% off

HART

The Healing Center - 15% off on services *appointments only--no walk-ins, 10% off products

Curves For Women - Call for Special Discount

LANSING

HASTINGS

Horizen Hydroponics - 20% off *not to be combined with monthly sales or package deals.

Anne’s Health Foods - 20% off All Supplements & 10% off All Hair & Bodycare Products every Thursday

HOLLAND Laketown Healing Arts - $10 off Massage Services of 60 or 90 Minutes; 20% off all Yoga Classes or Purchase a Package of 4 or more Yoga Classes and get One Class Free

MONTAGUE White River Yoga - 20% off Class Fees

MT. PLEASANT Herbs Etc. - 10% off Products

MI Clinical Massage - 10% off

Naturopathic Community Center (NCC) - 10% off enrollment of any class with payment up front

Rehab Your Body - $33 per 40 min - 1 hr Bodywork or Consultation

Ottawa Village Chiropractic - 20% off new patient exams, 10% off Chiropractic adjustments

Naturopathic Institute of Therapies & Education (NITE) - $100 off a $300 Class or $200 off Tuition

Sérendipité Organiques - 10% discount on all retail purchases

HOWARD CITY

MUSKEGON

Crooked Tree Dairy - 1 Free dairy product for Share Owners

Health Hutt - 20% off Supplements

Natural Health 4 Today - 20% off R3 Station - $10 off 1 Hour Massage

Serendipity Wellness Coaching - 25% off Shaklee: Connie Udell - 10% off for non Shaklee members

JENISON

Teri Genovese Photography - 15% off Portrait Session or $50 off Baby’s ‘1st Year in Life’ Series The Well Being, LLC - 50% off initial consultation and 10% off returning visits The Yoga Studio - 20% off a Series of Yoga Classes for New Students and 10% off a Series of Classes for Current Students Warren Nutrition (NE) - 15% off Everything in the Store and 20% Off every Tuesday Warren Nutrition (NW) - 15% off Everything in the Store and 20% Off every Tuesday Wholistic Kinesiology Health Services, LLC - 20% off With Open Hands Therapeutic Massage 20% off

GRANDVILLE Affordable Nutrition - 15% off Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price

West Michigan Edition

NORTH MUSKEGON Health Hutt - 20% off Supplements

Crowning Lotus Doula Services - 20% off Birth Doula Services & Products

OSCODA

We Care 4 U, LLC - 15% off Regular 2 Hour or More Visits Provided During 12 Consecutive Months; Free In-Home Assessment Completion & Emergency Information Required

Expressions of Health - 25% Discount for 1st Time Retreat Customers. 15% Discount for Subsequent Retreats. 15% off for All Services-Reiki, Reflexology & P.T.

KALAMAZOO

SAUGATUCK

Adamcz Associates - 15% Discount for Saturday Workshops

Beyond Books - 50% Bio Mat sessions, 15% off entire first purchase (excludes consignment art), 10% off classes, 10% off Reiki sessions

Horizen Hydroponics - 20% off *not to be combined with monthly sales or package deals.

KENTWOOD Footworks Reflexology - 20% off Initial Visit and 10% off Returning Visits Taijiquan - $5 off monthly fee Warren Nutrition - 15% off Everything in the Store and 20% off every Tuesday Wilcox Family Chiropractic - 20% off

SOUTH HAVEN Down to Earth Chiropractic - Time of svc: Adjustment $19, New Patient $89 incl 1st adjust, One Hour Massage $49

SPRING LAKE International Wellness Partners : Irv Marcus - Initial Visit $65 (reg. $100); $5 off Returning Visits

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Visit www.NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com to learn all the details about each of these provider’s discounts and stipulations.

Learn more about their program discounts* available to NAN Card Members. *Restrictions may apply.

WALKER

WEB BASED

Holistic Health Options, G.R. - 15% off Any Service

Arbonne International: Barb Clare - 20% Product Discount is available to “Preferred Customers” for a $29 Annual Fee, but will be waived for NAN Members.

If you like our magazine, you’ll love our Network.

Bellaroma Boutique - Free Shipping with Purchase of $25 or more

A New World of Health and Wellness Within Your Reach!

Walker Ice & Fitness Center - 5% off for all purchases in our Pro Shop of $15 or more; Purchase an adult open skate get a Child/Student Skate admission for FREE

WYOMING

Depsyl - Buy 2 Get 1 Free

Tracy’s Faces Holistic Salon & Day Spa 15% off all Salon Services, Skincare Services, Products and Massage Services Warren Nutrition - 15% off Everything in the Store and 20% Off every Tuesday

Hazelnut Kids - 10% off Happy Bums - 10% off An Order $75.00 or More From Anything On Our Website. Free Shipping Infinite Healthcare Partners - 20% off Ladybug Baby Organics, LLC - 15% off anything in the Store

ZEELAND Lakeshore Natural Skin Care - After initial service at regular price, all additional services scheduled the same day will receive a 20% discount. Discount applies to services of equal or lesser price

Mom’s Healthy Market - 15% off Total Sale Norwex (Stephanie Holleman) - Free Window Cloth on orders over $50 Orchard Harvest Candles -15% off on All Orders Over $25 Serenity4Life - 15% off Retail, Free Inital Zyto Scan and Free Classes Sing Song Yoga - 15% off the Sing Song Yoga DVD when ordered online. Soles of Michigan - 15% off Susan Pavlik - First 30 minutes at 50% off The Lollipop King / Essante Organics $29.95 member fee waived and 30% off all purchases through www.essanteworldwide.com/lollipopking

This directory will be printed quarterly. New Providers are added weekly and a current list will be posted on: www.NaturalWestMichigan.com To see a comprehensive list of all providers nationwide, visit: www.NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com

Complementary and Alternative Medicine • Acupuncture • Ayurveda • Homeopathy • Veterinary Homeopathy • Naturopathy • Chiropractic Alternative Therapies • Aromatherapy • Craniosacral • Kinesiology • Therapeutic Massage • Reflexology • Shiatsu • Energy Therapies Emotional Health • Addiction • Self-help • Hypnotherapy • Stress Management • Motivation • Holistic Psychology • Workshops Specialized Services • Coaching • Vegetarian Cuisine • Aesthetics • Gyms & Fitness Centers • Anti-Aging Medicine • Nutrition • Weight Loss • Beauty Salons • Spas • Tai Chi

natural awakenings

May 2013

Visit www.NaturalAwakeningsNetwork.com to learn all the details about each of these provider’s discounts and stipulations.

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calendarofevents Note: Visit www.NaturalWestMichigan.com for guidelines and to submit entries. All Calendar events must be submitted online by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

All Month Long

May Special - Purchase a package of 3 Ultimate Facials and receive a FREE Elina Organics Skin Cuisine mask for home use ($12 value). www.LakshoreNaturalSkinCare.com. Offer expires May 31st 2013. Lakeshore Natural Skin Care, 10500 Chicago Drive, Zeeland. 231-557-3619 Plant Sale- Buy Two flats get One gallon Free of Horizen Organic Fertilizer Tea made in Michigan. Find great deals, top brands, expert knowledge and service at Horizen Hydroponics, 1614 Leonard NW, Grand Rapids. www.hhydro.com.

Wednesday, May 1

Guided Meditation and Healing Circle- 7:008:00pm. Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation, and energy healing from Healing in Americatrained healers. $5 donation. Holistic Care Approach 3368 Beltline Ct., NE, Grand Rapids. For more info call: 269-908-1016.

Thursday, May 2

Food is the Problem, Food is the Solution- 2:005:30pm. If you have fatigue, overweight, brain fog, bloating, moodiness or if you’re being treated for disease, food may be an unsuspected problem. Learn to identify underlying food issues. Take corrective action for your whole family in our 4-week ‘Healthy Family Diet’ program - we include the cooking sessions. $147. Holistic Nutrition Center, 90 West 8th Street, Holland. Introduction to Rites of Passage & Vision Quest7:00-9:00pm. These ceremonies help us connect with nature and spirit to integrate life changes and seek new direction. Free. Download brochure at www. visionquestmi.com or call 586-306-6075 / 616-8564957. 4990 Cascade SE, Suite 3, Grand Rapids.

Friday, May 3

Free-Essential Oils from A-Z- 9:30am-5:00pm. 5/3-5/4. Training session with Dana Young, PhD, Founder & CEO of Be Young Essential Oils will cover the form and function giving an in depth understanding of beneficial properties to the human body. Free. Call to RSVP. Clara VanderZouwen 616698-6148, claravz@sbcglobal.net. Holiday Inn 3063 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, Kentwood. Carol Johnson Singing In The Light- 7:00pm. Concert for the Fun and Funds Of It! Benefit for Unity of Grand Rapids. An inspiring evening of her uplifting music and musings for all ages! Also appearing, Chuck Picard and Phil Pletcher. Suggested love offering $10.00 adults, $3.00 children 12 & under, $25.00 family. 1711 Walker Ave, Grand Rapids.

Saturday, May 4

Healthseekers Class- 10:30-11:30am. There is a high level of vitality and healing beyond the absence of pain. Find out how homeopathy & chiropractic are a perfect fit, restoring balance & optimizing functioning of your entire system down to the cellular & vibrational level. Free. www.AngelTouchFamilyChiropractic.com. 231-670-0179. 4265 Grand Haven Road, Suite 203, Muskegon.

Makeup Fearlessly- 11:00am-5:00pm. Sérendipité Organiques is hosting a Free Toxic Free Makeover with Sappho Organic Cosmetics. Join us for this fun event, where you’ll get a makeover by a professional makeup artist! Call Teri at 616-419-8115 for more information. Sérendipité Organiques, 959 Lake Dr SE, Ste 2, Grand Rapids. Bija Yoga Prenatal Program- 12:00-1:15pm. Sanskrit for seed, Bija Yoga is a special class for expectant and new mothers. Learn about specific alignment and strength concerns during pregnancy and post-partum, breathing techniques, and relaxation. Babies welcome too! $10 drop in. On The Path Yoga, 617 E. Savidge Ste A, Spring Lake.

Sunday, May 5

Reiki Master Teacher Class- Manual and attunement videos provided. More info at reikihaus.com or contact Paula at reikihaus@att.net. Reiki Haus in Holland. Intro to Mindfulness- 2:30-4:00pm. Lisa Cobb, LMSW and Lisa W. Lee, Energy Therapist are presenting an Introduction to Mindfulness Class. $20 sign up at lakeshoreyoga.com. Learn Simple Techniques for reducing stress and inspiring wellness. www.lisawlee. com. Lakeshore Yoga Center, Grand Haven. Introduction to Pressure-Free Living Tele-Seminar- 8:00-9:00pm. Elle Ingalls shows you how to gain control over stress, anger and anxiety with her 10-Second Solution in this interactive tele-seminar. You can participate by phone or computer from anywhere. $75. To register go to www.Pressure-free. com or call 269-832-3573

Monday, May 6

Guided Meditation and Healing Circle- 7:458:45pm Escape from stress and discover an inner world of calm, peace & joy through guided meditation, and energy healing from Healing in Americatrained healers. $5. Satya Yoga, 133 Butler St, Saugatuck. For info: 269-929-6796

offer. Come sample products & services. Free. Contact Jodi with questions 616-443-4225 or pawahania@ gmail.com. 4434 Knapp St, NE Grand Rapids. Healthseekers Class- 6:15-7:15pm. There is a high level of vitality and healing beyond the absence of pain. Find out how homeopathy & chiropractic are a perfect fit, restoring balance & optimizing functioning of your entire system down to the cellular & vibrational level. Free. www.AngelTouchFamilyChiropractic.com. 231-670-0179. 4265 Grand Haven Road, Suite 203, Muskegon. MomsBloom Volunteer Training- 6:30pm. If you enjoy helping mothers and babies, this opportunity is perfect for you! Please come to our volunteer training to find out how you can make a difference to a family with a newborn. Contact Angie@ momsbloom.org for more info. Free. 555 Midtowne NE, Grand Rapids.

Friday, May 10

Plant Sale- 5/10-5/12. Find great deals at the plant sale. Top brands, expert knowledge and service at Horizen Hydroponics, 1614 Leonard NW, Grand Rapids. www.hhydro.com. Reiki I/II Training Class- 9:00am-5:00pm. Learn how to do Reiki, a healing touch modality. Textbook and light lunch included. Call or email to register. Jan Atwood, Reiki Master/Teacher. $225. Jan@ janatwood.com or 616-915-4144. 801 Broadway Ave NW, Ste 436, Grand Rapids.

Saturday, May 11

Reiki Masters Class- 9:00am-5:00pm. Heighten your ability as a practitioner and give you the ability to teach and pass on the gift of Reiki. $350 includes a textbook and certificate. $50 deposit required at registration. 8 CE Hours. Call Jodi to register 616443-4225 or pawahania@gmail.com. 4434 Knapp St, NE Grand Rapids. Mother’s Day Shopping- 11:00am-4:00pm. Locally hand-crafted & up-cycled gifts priced low for a kid-sized budget. The Saturday before Mother’s Day (5/11) we will have a crafts table with art supplies available, so kids can make cards to go with the presents they pick out. Free with Purchase. Birds of a Feather, 5286 Plainfield NE, Grand Rapids.

WMEAC Film Series: Power Surge- 6:009:00pm. Explores the prospects of green energy amidst the current climate change. This film shows emerging technologies, including advancements in solar panels, wind turbines and artificial trees, and their potential to solve the climate and economic crises. Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Sound & Vibration Yoga with Jason Kniola3:00-5:00pm. Be immersed in deep and effortless meditation into mind/body/spirit unity. Recline in savasana and experience waves of sound and vibration that wash away energetic blocks, tension, pain and emotional stress. Using several singing bowls and gongs. To RSVP visit www.gryoga.com or call 616-776-0836. The Yoga Studio, 955 Cherry, Grand Rapids.

Wednesday, May 8

Sunday, May 12

Tuesday, May 7

Eckhart Tolle Meditation Group- 12:00-1:00pm. Take time out for peace in the middle of your busy day. Join facilitator, Patrick Duiven, for 20 min. of silent meditation followed by a 30 min. Eckhart Tolle DVD. This group is informal and newcomers are always welcome. Free. Fountain St Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids.

Thursday, May 9

Heavenly Healings Holistic Health Services Open House – 4:00-6:00pm. Come share and learn about Young Living Essential Oils, my services and classes I

Eckankar- 10:00-1:100am. All are invited to the monthly ECK Worship Service. Join others as we discover how to bring God into our everyday life. Services are the second Sunday of each month. Free. Dominican Center at Marywood, Room 4, 2025 E Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616-245-7003, www.eck-mi.org. Introduction to Pressure-Free Living Tele-Seminar8:00-9:00pm. Elle Ingalls shows you how to gain control over stress, anger and anxiety with her 10-Second Solution in this interactive tele-seminar. You can participate by phone or computer from anywhere. $75. To register go to www.Pressure-free.com or call 269-832-3573.

natural awakenings

May 2013

Tuesday, May 14

Energy Healing Workshop for Chronically Ill2:00pm. CFS Solutions is hosting an energy healing workshop for those who have complex chronic neruo-endocrine-immune diseases (NEIDs). Laurie DeDecker, R.N., Certified Healer Member of Healing in America will be presenting. Contact Lori Kroger, RN 231-360-6830 for more info. Lacks Cancer Center Grand Conference Room, Grand Rapids.

Wednesday, May 15

Raindrop Therapy®- 8:30am-5:30pm. Come learn Raindrop Therapy® $125 and 8 CE. We supply all you will need to take the class you only need to bring your sheets. Institute of Sanative Arts, 0-112979 Tallmadage Woods Dr. Standale. Metta: The Practice of Lovingkindness – 7:00pm. “Metta” is the Pali term for “unconditional friendliness” or ” loving-kindness,” and is a form of blessing/meditation practice. Each session will have a brief teaching, a 25-minute meditation session, time for Q & A and socializing. Cushions and chairs will be provided. Walk-ins are welcome, but space is limited. $10. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 Fulton Street East. Grand Rapids.

Thursday, May 16

Reiki Share Group- 5:30-7:30pm. For all who are trained in Reiki. Share experiences and Reiki. Jan Atwood, Reiki Master/Teacher. Free. 801 Broadway Ave NW, Ste 436, Grand Rapids. 616-915-4144

Friday, May 17

Pure Meditation Foundation Class for Adults3:00-5:00pm. Conquer stress, improve concentration, find inner peace, and so much more! Includes book: Self Realization Through Pure Meditation by Mata Yogananda, follow-up appointment & continuing support. $60. Pre-registration required. 517-641-6201, info@SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org, www.SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre, 7187 Drumheller Rd, Bath. Test Anxiety: The 10-Second Solution- 7:00pm. Just in time for final exams, Performance Coach Elle Ingalls shares fast, effective strategies for reducing test anxiety and improving brain function for teens. Free. For more info at www.Pressure-Free.com or 269-832-3573. White Lake Community Library on White Lake Dr. just East of Mears Ave, Whitehall.

Sunday, May 19

Introduction to Pressure-Free Living Tele-Seminar- 8:00-9:00pm. Elle Ingalls shows you how to gain control over stress, anger and anxiety with her 10-Second Solution in this interactive tele-seminar. You can participate by phone or computer from anywhere. $75. To register go to www.Pressure-free. com or call 269-832-3573 Essential Oil Training: I (Basic)- 9:30-11:30am & II (Everyday Oils): 12:00- 2:00pm & III (Raindrop): 2:00-4:00pm. Learn the basics of the benefits and uses of Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils. $25 per class includes class materials & pre-registration required. 6 CE Hours. To register call Jodi: 616443-4225 or pawahania@gmail.com. 4434 Knapp St, NE Grand Rapids. Holland Chapter Group Meeting- 2:00pm. Join Allison our Holland Chapter NoGMO4Michigan

West Michigan Edition

Leader and learn about GMO’s, upcoming events, and ways that you can be involved in the cause. Free. 57 E. 8th St., Holland.

Tuesday, May 21

Elements of Man- 6:30-7:30pm. Come learn about the essential minerals that make up the human body and how to nutritionally support the body to achieve balance through food or supplements. Free event taught by a Naturopathic student. RSVP appreciated at 616-443-4225 or pawahania@gmail.com. 4434 Knapp St, NE Grand Rapids. Got Goat Milk?- 7:00-8:00pm. Farmer Mary Windemuller of Country Winds Farm has goats a goat share operation and a creamery. She will discuss the benefits and details about delicious and nutritious goat’s milk. Nourishing Ways of West Michigan. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N. Division, Grand Rapids. info@nourishingways.org.

Wednesday, May 22

Salt Body Polish- 9:00am-4:00pm. Learn a salt body Polish that you can add to your menu that does not require you have a shower at your studio. Earn 6 NCBTMB CE $75. Bring only your sheets and face cradle we supply all the rest. Institute of Sanative Arts, 0-112979 Tallmadage Woods Dr. Standale.

saturday, June 1

Spa Day for The Soul- 9:30am-4:45pm. Interactive mix of group activities and individual care. 4 Workshops include: Self empowerment, Working with the Angels, Stone Energy, Collective Group Energy. You will receive two sessions with energetic healers and two sessions with intuitive readers. Lunch, snacks and drinks included. Preregistration required at spadayforthesoul.com. $84. Limited space. Open Mind 39 Courtland St., Rockford.

Sunday-Saturday, June 2-8

Free Yoga Classes- Join us as we celebrate our new and expanded studio. We’ll be offering free classes all week & sign up specials. The week will culminate on Saturday, June 8th with a “New Moon, New Start” reception and party. Visit www.onthepathyoga.com for class times. Free. On The Path Yoga, 701 E. Savidge #2, Spring Lake.

friday, June 7

1st Year Anniversary Celebration- Sérendipité Organiques will be celebrating its’ One Year Anniversary. Please join for prizes, discounts, and fun! A percentage of sales that weekend will also be donated. 616-419-8115. Sérendipite Organiques, 959 Lake Dr SE, Ste 2, Grand Rapids.

Thursday, May 23

Hot Stone Massage Training- 8:30am-5:30pm. As a full service or as a modality 8 NCBTMB approved CE’s. $75 8:30-5:30. Class will include training on full body and face. Stones will be provided to use in training. Bring only your sheets. Enroll at www. sanativetranquility.com/ceclasses.html or 616-7910472. Grand Rapids, Standale area Chakra Connections: Part One- 6:30-9:00pm. Part 2 is Thursday, June 6. Part 3 is Thursday, June 20. Learn how using the chakra system can contribute to your well-being. Help develop subtle energy awareness, intuitive abilities and psychological understandings each chakra represents. $125 for all three classes. SE Grand Rapids location. More info at www.joanhofman.com or Joan at 616-974-5594. The Truth About GMO’s- 7:00pm. Tonight we will have representatives form a local organization that is educating the public as to the truth on GMO’s. There will be a brief film shown and losts of lively discussion. Be a part of the solution. Free. The Wellness Forum, 4990 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids.

Saturday, May 25

Relaxing Yoga Morning Retreat- 10:00am-1:30pm. For all levels and abilities, includes a delicious home cooked vegetarian lunch and refreshments. $35. Pre-registration required. 517-641-6201, info@ SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org. www.SelfRealizationCentreMichigan.org. An overnight retreat is also possible. Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre, 7187 Drumheller Rd, Bath.

Sunday, May 26

NaturalWestMichigan.com

savethedatelistings Save The Date Events Must be submitted online each month at NaturalWestMichigan.com. Events priced $80 or above require a corresponding display ad. There is a $45 charge per listing, up to 50 words. If you are a current advertiser, distribution site or non-profit you just use this listing in place of one of your free listings for a $25 charge

savethedate June 14-16 Buttermilk Jamboree- Buttermilk is a 3 day music & arts festival that takes place at, and benefits Circle Pines Center; a non-profit cooperative organization. Lineup includes: Rusted Root, Andru Bemis, Anne Weiss, Badenya Drumming Ensemble and many more. Visit www.ButtermilkJamboree.org for more info. Circle Pines Center, 8650 Mullen Road, Delton.

savethedate June 29 Art Journaling- 9:00am-4:00pm. 7/13 and 8/3. A very fun way to explore the different ways our souls prompts us to explore what needs to be explored! A variety of materials and exercises will be offered to stimulate the imagination into providing us with creative insights. Artistic experience not needed but a willingness to try is! SE Grand Rapids location. More info at www. joanhofman.com or call Joan at 616-974-5594.

ongoingevents

River Yoga Studio. Montague. 231-740-6662.

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

Sunday

Prosperity: Living an Abundant Life- 6:30-8:30pm. Led by Rev. Jennifer Sacks. Love offering. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave Grand Rapids.

Sunday Worship and Youth Services- 10:30am. Variety of classes held weekly. A warm, welcoming, New Thought, spiritual community, inclusive and accepting of all, honoring diversity, for those seeking spiritual truth. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave Grand Rapids. www.unityofgrandrapids.org

A Course In Miracles- 7:00-8:30 pm. Facilitator is a 30-year Course student, certified yoga instructor and former resident of the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Lenox, Ma. Fountain Street Church, Grand Rapids. Free. 616-458-5095.

Intro Class- 2:00-3:30pm. 90-minute class. Not sure if pole dancing is for you? “Test the waters” before signing up for our 8 week sessions. Visit www. flirtfitnessgr.com to reserve your spot! Flirt Fitness, 415 Norwood St, Grand Rapids. 616-723-7350.

Monday $30 Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-of-the-art profiling and tracking of all 58 meridians in the body with take-home computer generated results to assess progress. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. Visit Integrativenutritionaltherapies.com for more info. Open Meditation: Why Peace of Mind is Possible & Easy - 7:00-8:30pm. Join facilitator, Bjorn Willobee to learn how to be attentive to the present moment, which is more than just noticing what you can see, hear, feel, smell and taste right now. Free. Fountain St Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids.

Thursday Chair Yoga- 4:00-5:00pm. 2nd Thurs or March, April, May, June & Aug. Chair Yoga is a safe and supportive class where you will gently move your body using a chair to help you cultivate flexibility, strength, and balance. $10. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 Fulton Street East, Grand Rapids. Dancing From Within ~ Free Form Dance for Women- 6:00-6:45pm. Every other Thursday. Express your authentic self dancing to funky, world music in a fun, safe space at the Wealthy Theater Dance Annex with Daina Puodziunas (DINAH) of Awakened Potentials. $10. 1110 Wealthy Theater Annex, Grand Rapids. Advanced Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:157:30 pm. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga. com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662. A Course in Miracles- 6:30-8:30pm. Led by Rev. Manzel Berlin. This “A Course in Miracles” class is for new students, as well as those who’ve studied the Course for years. Love Offering. Unity of Grand Rapids, 1711 Walker Ave Grand Rapids.

Tuesday

Friday

Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman- 7:459:00am & 9:15-10:30am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.

Level 2 Class- 9:00-10:30am. 90 minute intro pole dancing class. Not sure if pole dancing is for you? This class gives you a chance to test the waters! Flirt Fitness, 415 Norwood St, Grand Rapids. 616-723-7350.

Wednesday $30 Off BioMeridian Assessments- State-of-the-art profiling and tracking of all 58 meridians in the body with take-home computer generated results to assess progress. Grand Rapids. 616-365-9176. Visit Integrativenutritionaltherapies.com for more info. Awakened Women’s Boot Camp- 6:00-8:30pm. 1st Wednesday of every month. How to free your Authentic Soul and shine your light in the world through a process of compassionate self-inquiry with Daina Puodziunas (DINAH) of Awakened Potentials. $20. Open Mind, 39 Courtland, Rockford.

Level 2 Class- 10:30am-12:00pm. 90 minute intro pole dancing class. Not sure if pole dancing is for you? This class gives you a chance to test the waters! Flirt Fitness, 415 Norwood St, Grand Rapids. 616-723-7350.

classifieds

Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 6:15-7:30 pm. All levels. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for more information. Classes meet at White River Yoga Studio, 8724 Ferry St. Montague. 231-740-6662.

On Being a Spirit having a Physical Experience6:30pm. 2nd & 4th Tuesdays. From the Shamanic Teachings of the Sweet Medicine Sundance Path w/ Marie Moon Star Seeker. $10. Owl Hawk Clan. Open Mind in Rockford. 616-447-0128.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market- 9:00am-1:00pm. Hackley Health at the Lakes building on Harvey Street. We are indoors if the weather is bad. We are a double up bucks and bridge card market. Hesperia. 231-861-2234

Open Studio--Svartha Marga- 1:00-5:00pm. Circuit style yoga experience designed to help students with individual practice development. Suggested poses and props are provided with supervision by a certified yoga instructor. During May, the poses will be selected to help runners as the summer race season begins. Free. On The Path Yoga, 617 E. Savidge Ste A, Spring Lake. Village Farmers Market- 2:00-7:00pm. 5/17-Labor Day. Buy fresh & local from producers that utilize organic farming practices -eggs, meats, cheese, fruits & vegetables, organic Michigan milk and more. Please visit us on Facebook. Spring Lake. 616-935-7312.

Saturday Gentle Hatha Yoga with Mitch Coleman – 9:0010:15am & 10:30-11:45am. Drop-ins welcome. Visit WhiteRiverYoga.com for info. Classes meet at White

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.

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

FOR SALE Hardy Dam/Muskegon River near - 80 acres, 6 bedroom home, outbuildings; garage, barn. Fishing and hunting area. Robb Breen: 1-231327-1147. robbreen@sbcglobal.net Northwest Grand Rapids Commercial Building- 1058 Richmond NW, Grand Rapids, MI. Current use is a full service salon on the main floor and a spacious 3 bedroom apartment on the 2nd floor. Great location on Richmond with steady traffic and across from the popular Richmond Park. Only $150,000! Call Jeff Blahnik at Five Star Real Estate 616-791-1500 or visit JeffBlahnik.com for more information.

HELP WANTED Inside Sales Associates Wanted to set up appointments for Natural Awakenings Sales staff. Must have professional phone voice and good communication skills. Computer knowledge a plus. All leads provided. Work from home, parttime on your own schedule. Fixed fees paid for appointments scheduled, meetings completed plus bonus paid on final sale. Email resume to info@na-pr.com.

PeT Services Canine Tooth Fairy now serving Grand Rapids area. Anesthesia free teeth cleaning for dogs. Remove plaque & tartar build up without the use of anesthesia. Check out caninetoothfairy.com for more information or on facebook www.facebook. com/caninetoothfairy. 248-798-6999

natural awakenings

May 2013

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

BODy Applications

LIGHTRAYS

SALLY DERSCH

CranioSacral Therapy (CST)/Reiki Master Jamie VanDam 4456 Miramar Ave. NE Grand Rapids, 49525 616-365-9113

Frequency Apps Wellness Center 12505 Northland Dr. Suite A6, Cedar Springs, MI 49319 616-755-8446 www.FrequencyApps.com We are the leader in new generation homeopathic body applications known as the Frequency App! 50+ varieties of Apps including hCG, Weight Loss, Hormone, Sleep, Detox, Supplements, MSA Testing, Food/Environmental Allergy Analysis, Ionic Foot Baths.

BODY CARE PRODUCTS MOONDROP HERBALS, LLC Cottage of Natural Elements 351 Cummings NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-735-1285 www.MoondropHerbals.com

Locally-made, natural face, body, and healthy living options. Organic herbs, teas, and essential oils. Bulk diy section. Aromatherapy, bodycare, and tea accessories. Natural products reference library. We also feature local artisans in jewelry, artwork, repurposed, & vintage goods. See ad page 6.

SÉRENDIPITÉ ORGANIQUES, LLC 959 Lake Dr SE, Suite 2, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-419-8115 www.SerendipiteOrganiques.com facebook.com/SerendipiteOrganiques

*NEW LOCATION! A retail store exclusively offering organic non-toxic makeup, skincare & other products for your body, home, & pets! Products must score ‘Low Hazard 0-2’ on ewg.org/skindeep, or they simply won’t be considered! See ad page 18.

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

West Michigan Edition

BODYWORK

Reiki Master, CranioSacral Therapist uses light touch to release restrictions and ease pain in the body addressing many physical ailments in adults, children and pediatrics. Adding Essential Oils optimizes mental and emotional health.

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

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

BUILDING / CONSTRUCTION DLH CONCEPTS

Kyle Hass Licensed Residential Builder 616-299-5815 dlhconcepts@gmail.com

Locally owned and operated. Specializing in building quality livable and affordable new homes that are Energy Efficient and utilize Green Building practices. Unmatched efficiencies and uncompromising quality. Call today for a free quote. See ad page 27.

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

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

NaturalWestMichigan.com

GASLIGHT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC 2249 Wealthy St. SE, Suite #240 East Grand Rapids, 49506 616-458-CFIT (2348) GaslightChiro@gmail.com www.GaslightChiro.com

Experience an individualized, holistic healthcare approach! We combine spinal adjustments, Contact Reflex & Nutrition Response (Muscle Testing), Whole Food Supplementation Orthotics, Massage & Aromatherapy. Common conditions we see include: Chronic Fatigue, Headaches, IBS, Back & Neck pain and Fibromyalgia.

SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA

Dr. Andrew Schafer 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000 www.GRChiroSpa.com

Tr e a t i n g m u s c u l o s k e l e t a l conditions, but specializing in b ac k p a in , n eck p ain , a n d headaches. Also offering physical therapy, massage therapy, and postural awareness. Most insurance accepted. Breton Village area. See ad page 15 & 30.

cleaning pRoDucts NATURAL HEALTH 4 TODAY, LLC

Clara VanderZouwen, NORWEX Consultant 616-698-6148 claravz@sbcglobal.net www.NaturalHealth4Today.com Imagine cleaning with only water! Improve the quality of your life with Norwex products by radically reducing the use of chemicals in personal care and cleaning. Save Time & Money.

cOlon hydrotherapy HARMONY ’N HEALTH

Mary De Lange, CCT. CMT. 1003 Maryland Ave, N.E., Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 www.HarmonyNHealth.net Certified therapist since 1991 offering colon therapy in a sterile and professional environment. Using a holistic approach, colonics relieves constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloat, poor digestion, back pain, body odor and more. See ad page 7.

TRICIA E. GOSLING

Natural Health & Healing Center 723 Kenmoor SE Grand Rapids 49546 616-481-9074 www.holisticenergytherapies.net Offering an advanced clientcentered dimension of colonics: gentle, safe and effective. Eliminate toxins and enhance well-being. 16 years of experience. Also offering Quantum Biofeedback sessions. I-ACT certified Instructor.

dentistry / holistic DENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER

Dr. Kevin P. Flood DDS 616-974-4990 www.FloodTheDentist.com Comprehensive Holistic Dental Services – Amalgam Removal & Replacement. Bio-Compatible, metal-free materials, Low-Dose Digital X-Rays, Gentle Anesthesia, Dentistry for Diabetes, TMJ, Chronic Head & Neck pain and Non Surgical Perio. See ad page 48.

energy healing AMA~DEUS®

Elizabeth Cosmos Grand Rapids: 616-648-3354 ElizabethCosmos@sbcglobal.net www.Ama-Deus-International.com AMA-DEUS energy healing method is a hand mediated technique. Love is the basis for this healing technique, which helps to enhance our spiritual growth, expand our awareness, and promotes physical & emotional healing. See ad page 47.

MATRIX ENERGETICS

Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com Matrix Energetics is a system used to heal, transform and create new possibilities in your life. Using the principles of quantum physics and subtle e n e rg y d u r i n g a M a t r i x Energetics session we are able to enter into different realties and download new possibilities for your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual selves. See ad page 19.

essential oils

health food stores

BE YOUNG ESSENTIAL OILS

AFFORDABLE NUTRITION

Clara VanderZouwen 616-698-6148 claravz@sbcglobal.net www.NaturalHealth4Today.com

Learn how to address issues of Pain, Stress, Hormone Imbalance, Weight Management, ADD, Allergies, Diabetes & more with Essential Oils, Ionic Foot Baths, BioEnergy scans, Nutritional & NEW Earthing products! Free monthly classes.

HEAVENLY HEALINGS HOLISTIC HEALTH SERVICES Jodi Jenks - Reiki Master 4434 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 www.heavenlyhealings.org

Joel D. Manning, CNC®, Owner 4693 Wilson Ave. SW Suite I, Grandville 616-667-1346 Joel@Affordable-Nutrition.com Affordable, natural approach to better health. Certified nutritional consultant with 22 years experience. Offering select, high quality vitamins, minerals, herbs, children’s products, essential oils, homeopathics, weight loss and more. Professional discounts and senior pricing. www.Affordable-Nutrition.com.

HEALTH HUTT

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. See ad page 7.

Grand Haven 616-846-3026 Muskegon 231-739-1568 North Muskegon 231-744-0852 Find us on Facebook Natural & organic foods, vitamins & herbs, sports nutrition, gluten free food, natural body and homecare products. Open 7 days a week. See ad page 19.

holistic health centers

HAKOMI THERAPY

THE HEALING CENTER

KEN PORTER CST, CHT 534 Fountain NE, Grand Rapids MI 49503 616-262-3848 www.BodyandSoulGR.com

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

health education center THE WELLNESS FORUM

Bob Huttinga PA-C & Rev. Barbara Huttinga 332 S. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com Affordable, natural approach to better health. Certified nutritional consultant with 22 years experience. Offering select, high quality vitamins, minerals, herbs, children’s products, essential oils, homeopathics, weight loss and more. Professional discounts and senior pricing. www.affordablenutrition.com. See ad in page 14.

WEST MICHIGAN PAIN MANAGEMENT THERAPY CENTER P.L.L.C.

4990 Cascade Road, Grand Rapids 616-430-2291 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.

Herbert Schlichting M.S., CPT., OPT. 6745 E. Fulton, Suite A, Ada 616-706-6132 wmpmtc@gmail.com

We offer various neuromuscular therapy treatments pertaining to acute or chronic condition. We o f f e r p h y s i c a l f i t n e s s training in our own facility. Our focus is to eliminate pain while educating patients own ways to prevent injuries.

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

May 2013

massage therapy

homeopathy BOB HUTTINGA PA-C

332 S. Lincoln Ave Lakeview 989-352-6500 www.TheHealingCenterOfLakeview.com A Certified Physician Assistant since 1976, specializing in naturopathic and homeopathic care. Family care. Also, certified Silva Method instructor. We use Clinical Homeopathy to assist traditional medications. We take most insurances. See ad page 14. 14.

insurance

HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS TEAM Rachael Larabel 616-329-6178 rlarabel@aplanforeveryone.com www.aplanforeveryone.com

Local independent agent representing providers of dental, health, and accident insurance for individuals and small business. Products are compliant with healthcare reform, offer free preventive care, and dental benefits with no waiting period.

interior design services ALIGn DESIGN, llc

DYNAMIC FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY

Jaci Timmermans, MT 4072 Chicago Drive, Grandville, MI 49418 616-531-6050 www.DynamicChiro.com. I offer Swedish massage with Integrated Te c h n i q u e s , c h o s e n specifically to your unique body. Relieve those tired and sore muscles and rejuvenate! Call for ongoing monthly specials and discounts.

HANDS ON HEALING PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY LLC Pattie Kooy, CMMT, CMT, HTP 5286 Plainfield NE Plainfield Twp, MI 49525 616-648-7217

Professional massage therapist offering Medical Massage, Manual Therapy, Hot Stone, Healing Touch Therapy, Essential Oils, Infrared heat lamp, Bio-energetic Therapy, Hot castor oil packs, Chinese herbal liniments & Detox Massage. Mention ad for $10 off hour massage.

HARMONY ‘N HEALTH

Mary De Lange, CCT., CMT. 1003 Maryland Ave NE, Grand Rapids 616-456-5033 www.harmonynhealth.net Over 21 years of professional experience and trained in a complete range of modalities. Whether you are seeking relaxation, renewal, or treatment for a specific condition, Mary will help find an approach that is helpful for you. See ad page 7.

Shawn Merkel, ASID, IIDA 616-916-1071 shawnmerk@gmail.com www.Aligndesigngr.com Align your space to be a true reflection of who you are. Specializing in Wholistic design, repurposing and Feng Shui. Full service Residential and commercial Interior design. See ad page 20.

kinesiology WHOLISTIC KINESIOLOGY HEALTH SERVICES, LLC

SANATIVE TRANQUILITY WELLNESs SPA

0-11279 Tallmadge Woods Dr. Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-791-0472 www.SanativeTranquility.com

Barbara Zvirzdinis, WK, CMT 616-581-3885 www.WKHealthServices.com

Certified Wholistic Kinesiologist, Certified Matrix E n e rg e t i c s P r a c t i t i o n e r, Certified Massage Therapist, Reconnection Healing Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Certified Acutonics Practitioner and Certified Reflexologist. Specializing in muscle testing, massage, energy medicine, nutritional counseling, lectures and classes. See ad page 19.

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com

Wellness spa for massage, bodywork and skincare therapy. Offering a wide diversity of style to encompass the mind, body and spirit of today’s lifestyle. Come in and enjoy our stress free spa environment today.

SCHAFER CHIROPRACTIC AND HEALING SPA

Sheri Beth Schafer, CMT, Ayurvedic Bodyworker, Reiki Master 1801 Breton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-301-3000 We have multiple certified massage therapists offering relaxation, prenatal, deep tissue massage, and medical massage. We also offer Reiki, chakra balancing, and Ayurvedic bodywork. Breton Vi l l a g e a r e a . w w w. grchirospa.com. See ad page 15 & 30.

meditation BJORN ATRI WILLOBEE

Grand Rapids, MI 801-557-2723 atri@thebrightpath.com www.meditationmichigan.com Experience simple, effortless techniques that allow you to move into a direct experience of inner peace, happiness and clear mental chatter with our free meditation meet up groups. Personal coaching, courses and weekend workshops available.

midwifery FULL CIRCLE MIDWIFERY SERVICE, INC. Patrice Bobier CPM Hesperia: 231-861-2234 www.FullCircleMidwifery.com

In private practice since 1982 specializing in homebirth. Over 1200 births attended. Offering midwifery care that maintains a family-centered safe birth experience. Empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy, give birth naturally and parent in the best ways.

salon services CJ’S STUDIO SALON

5286 Plainfield Ave., NE Grand Rapids 49525 616-364-9191 www.CjsStudioSalon.com

I am an award winning Hair Stylist with 30 years Advanced Education. We use and sell Organic Hair Care Products, including Organic Hair Color. We also offer Ionic Detox Foot Baths.

195 calories

school / education INSTITUTE OF SANATIVE ARTS

• NON-DAIRY • 10g PROTEIN • 100% NATURAL • GLUTEN-FREE INGREDIENTS

0-11279 Tallmadge Woods Dr. Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-791-0472 www.SanativeTranquility.com State licensed school for massage and bodywork. Offering high quality, affordable massage certification courses as well as NCBTMB continuing education courses for the experienced therapist. Located conveniently to Grand Rapids, Standale, Walker and Allendale.

NATUROPATHIC INSTITUTE OF THERAPIES & EDUCATION 503 East Broadway St. Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 989-773-1714 www.Nite-mtp.com

Educational Programs Offered: Natural Health Program - Four Years (one weekend a month); Massage Therapy Program - One Year (two weekends a month); Holistic Doula Practitioner Program - Six Months (one weekend a month). Individual classes available. See ad page 2.

sPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION PRACTICAL PEACE

Elizabeth Beau elizabethbeau55@gmail.com www.14inchestopeace.com

Practical Peace is a catalyst for Spiritual Transformation. We offer weekend classes to help you move from ego-consciousness to Spiritual Awareness to become a more authentic “you”. For more information contact Barbra at barbra14peace@gmail.com.

weight reduction

YUM!

NOW IN THREE FLAVORS

Find them at 100+ local retailers like Harvest Health, Health Hutt, Earth’s Edge, The Orchard Markets, all WESCO gas stations and all 197 MEIJER locations! *growing list of retailers found on our website:

EcoTrekBars.com

SALLY DERSCH

Frequency Apps Wellness Center 12505 Northland Dr. Suite A6, Cedar Springs, MI 49319 616-755-8446 www.FrequencyApps.com A variety of natural items for your weight loss goals! Frequency Apps patches including hCG, Weight Loss/Power Workout, Appetite Suppressant. Also Supplements including Diatrix (for Diabetics), Green Coffee Bean, and African Mango, MSA Testing, Food/ Environmental Allergy Analysis.

That what you are looking for is the one looking - Muktananda

New Release

Local Author Elizabeth Cosmos Brings the Full Teachings & History of Ama-Deus to Life. Available for Purchase Locally at: Spirit Dreams- www.SpiritDreamsGR.com Schuler Books- www.SchulerBooks.com natural awakenings

May 2013

West Michigan Edition

NaturalWestMichigan.com